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Important items for your Wedding day

August 11, 2016 admin Leave a comment

As a bride, many thoughts cross your mind while planning your event. For example, will I be happy with my flowers? Can I sit that person there? Will my wedding planner get my wedding style right, as well as a host of other things. On your wedding day, many things may go wrong, so it is important to plan for the little things that may not seem like a big deal now, but on the d-day, they will matter a lot. Here is a list of items that may help.

Flip Flops are essential.

Be sure to have a pair of flip flops stashed within reach. The idea may not seem like it is a great one but when you look at the big picture, flip flops will come in very handy on your wedding day. How else will you give your legs a break like during long photo shoots. Also, Let your flip flops be stylish and match the theme and décor on the wedding day. There are so many fun, cute styles to choose from I say buy at least two pairs!

Pack your bags.

It is important to pack all the clothes and overnight items that you need for your honeymoon up front and leave it with a trusted person or in the car. This is because, after the wedding, you will not have time to go back and do the packing. Other aspects to consider are the toiletries and other items that the bridesmaids and groomsmen may need during the wedding. The bag should be marked properly and left in the care of a responsible & trusted person.

Your wing man…or woman.

You have to bear in mind that on your wedding day, you will be the center of attention. Therefore, everything, as pertains to planning and taking care of the vendors, will be out of the question on the wedding day. It is important to have a wedding planner but at the same time, the wedding planner might overlook some aspects that might ruin your envisioned wedding style. You will need somebody you fully trust to ensure that the venue has nothing left, the vendors have all received their checks and that the bridesmaids travel arrangements are taken care of after the wedding. Choose wisely.

Don’t sweat the small stuff.

The saddest comment to me is a recent bride saying that they were so overwhelmed by the commotion of the day that they forgot to enjoy the moment. Take the time to breathe in the day, sneak away for a stolen kiss with your new husband, watch as your family dances with abandon, laugh with all your bridesmaids throughout the day. It can be a magical day if you remember to enjoy it and live in the moment. Blink and the day will be over, it will be a shame to waste such precious moments on things that will be forgotten and overlooked.

Top Picks for Wedding Color Palettes

July 5, 2016 admin Leave a comment

The wedding colors you choose for your event should be one of the first things you do when planning for your wedding décor. Determining the look and feel of the wedding style you wish to achieve is something that you will refer back to often to pull the event together. Color Palettes for the event are the first to decide on. You may choose to use bold modern colors to make a statement or stay with a traditional look with a combination of soft colors. Wedding style is a very personalized decision, and the different colors you choose will depend on the preferences you choose to focus on. We have put together a is a short list of some popular color palettes to help you narrow down your decision.

Silver, Teal and Classic White. Think Tiffany & Co. Who doesn’t love that little blue box with the white ribbon? These colors are a classic color scheme for your wedding style. It can be used in table set ups and the cakes. These colors can be used in all-weather seasons, beautiful summers and winter wonderland both lend themselves to this tried and true color palette. It is a classic look.

Navy, Classic White and Spring Green. This is a sophisticated Spring-Summer color palette. You can choose a soft white and classic navy to balance each other with small shots of Spring Green to brighten up your theme in a fun way. This color palette naturally lends itself to beautiful flower displays using the natural green elements of nature to enhance all of the color of each floral centerpiece.

Pale Pink, Soft Gray, and Ivory. This is an elegant color scheme that turns out to be the best during the winter months. Picture the elegant invitations, beautiful table designs and exquisite floral displays with this soft palette. It is also very flattering for most people to wear, you can have the groomsmen have soft blush ties and your bridal party in pastel pinks. You can even offer a toast with pink champagne for that extra surprise coordination that is sure to make people smile.

Classic White, Coral Pink, and Mint Green. This is a nature-inspired look that can be used for a fun spring-time wedding. Choose carefree and light hearted ideas like a pink and green candy bar to keep the feeling of this palette upbeat. You can also showcase these colors by using a signature cocktail. This is a fun and very trendy look for your wedding.

Plum, Ivory and Gold. Picture a royal wedding, sophisticated and regal. Purple is actually associated with with royalty, nobility, luxury, power, and ambition. All great attributes to have represented as you start a life together with someone. Of course the gold adds a hint of glamour to an already posh color palette. From your invitations to your table settings; this palette will be sure to impress even the most particular guests.

Wedding Planning in Winter

December 23, 2015 admin Leave a comment

Even though June may statistically be the most common month for weddings, it does not mean it is the only appropriate time of the year for a great celebration. Winter weddings are a popular option that can create a magical memory that is unlike any wedding held any other time of the year. Before anyone commits to a wedding during this time of year, there are many things they should consider first.

Just a quick visit to any party planning site will reveal that there are an endless amount of ways to decorate and plan a winter wedding. The decorations for this time of year are available everywhere, because a lot of Christmas and New Year’s Eve decor is perfect for a wedding celebration. Banquet halls with warm fireplaces and silver and blue or red and gold decorations are all perfect backgrounds for some stunning wedding photos.

During the winter, families are often in town visiting already because of the holidays. This makes it more affordable for out of town guests to attend weddings since they will not have to make a second trip in the summer for the event. However, holiday parties and busy schedules may make it difficult for friends to attend, and that should be remembered when making plans.

Money could be another issue because many are financially strapped during the winter. There are higher heat and utility bills, the holidays and an upcoming tax season. This is important for the bride and groom to consider too, because it could eventually restrict how they are able to celebrate their winter anniversary in the future.
Another concern, at least for those in northern climates, is winter weather. Just as a rain storm can ruin an outdoor summer wedding, snow and sleet could cancel a winter event. It could cause guests to be delayed or have their flights cancelled and could even lead to a honeymoon departure being delayed.
Winter weddings may not be for the excessive worrier or the faint of heart, but when they are planned correctly and make full use of the beauty of the season, few summer weddings can compare. Make certain to be aware of the pros and cons and use all of the party planning tips available to make a winter wedding a party that no one will ever forget.

Good Luck!

Ways to Save Money on Your Wedding

May 26, 2015 admin Leave a comment

Ways to Save Money on Your Wedding

Your wedding day is supposed to be one of the happiest days of your life – not the day that drove you into the ground financially at full speed. Whether your budget is little or limitless, there are few ways you can save money on your wedding without compromising what you really want.

Get married on a Friday or Sunday.
Saturday is the most expensive day of the week to get married – especially in the Spring and Summer. If you get married on a Friday or Sunday you could save yourself some big bucks – especially if you schedule your wedding in the late Fall or in the Winter.

Skip the champagne toast.
People can toast with anything they’re drinking. If you’re not keen on ditching the classic toast, you can also opt for prosecco which is still bubbly but less expensive than champagne.

Stick to seasonal items.
Choose fruits that are in-season to save yourself some money on the catering. Thinking seasonally is also important when choosing your flowers. You’ll be surprised at how much choosing in-season items will save you!

Serve signature cocktails.
Alcohol is one of the biggest expenses of a wedding. Most wedding venues have a “you open it, you bought it” policy which will leave you paying for a bottle even if you only had one sip out of it. Consider offering a limited bar with signature cocktails that all use one type of liquor. You can also choose to serve just beer or wine.

Shop designer or sample sales.
You can save up to 70 percent on wedding gowns, veils and accessories by shopping at sample sales. Your favorite designer’s websites might have a touring list of their sample sales or you can contact a local bridal gown salon to inquire about events.

Combine place cards with the favors.
Add guests’ names to the favors to save on the cost of printed escort cards.

Make your own favors.
Making your own chocolate covered almonds and bagging them as favors is an inexpensive and delicious way to save money on favors.

Rent a house for the wedding and lodging.
Renting a house can act as a wedding venue, housing for out-of-town guests, and a secluded honeymoon venue for when the guests leave.

Wedding Toast Do’s & Don’ts

May 19, 2015 admin Leave a comment

Writing a great speech for your wedding toast can be intimidating. After all, you want it to be funny, meaningful, and sentimental and …perfect. This shouldn’t be too hard right? Here are some wedding toast dos and don’ts to help you master the perfect speech that will leave everyone wanting more:

Do:

Be yourself – they chose you for a reason!
Be brief. Keep your speech under 5 minutes long.
Mention both, the bride and the groom.
Be funny.
End with love and a well-wishing for the couple.
Speak into the microphone so that everyone can hear you.

Don’t:

Don’t be a drunken mess while giving your toast.
Don’t use vulgar language – there are kids in the audience.
Ramble on..and on…and on.
Don’t mention any exes.
Don’t tell any inside jokes that no one will understand.

Don’t forget to have fun with it!

Wedding Vendor Booking Timeline

May 14, 2015 admin Leave a comment

Once you’ve decided on the basic details for your wedding day, it’s time to start researching and booking vendors. After all – without them in place, your wedding timeline may fall apart. We’ve put together this wedding vendor booking timeline so that you don’t miss anything in the craziness of planning your big day.

12 Months

Ceremony venue
Reception venue
Wedding planner

10 Months

Photographer
Caterer
Florist
Videographer
Band
DJ

8 Months

Ceremony music
Officiate
Wedding dress
Stationer (save the dates)
Guest accommodations

7 Months

Cake baker
Bridesmaid’s dresses
Honeymoon travel consultant
Stationer (invitations)
Party rentals (chairs, linens, etc)
Hair stylist
Makeup artist

5 Months

Men’s attire
Bridal accessories
Transportation

3 Months

Wedding rings
Favors

Unexpected Wedding Expenses to Watch Out For

May 12, 2015 admin Leave a comment

Unexpected wedding costs to watch out for.

First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes… THE BILL… (Input dramatic music here). A common mistake that most couples make is not leaving a little extra wiggle room for unforeseen wedding expenses.

As you prepare your wedding budget, avoid getting heart palpitations upon receiving that hefty bill by being prepared for the unexpected. Here are the top unexpected wedding expenses to watch out for:

Uncle Sam. When checking all your vendors’ estimates, clarify if the sales tax is included in that price.

Delivery Fees. Almost anything and everything you need on your big day can be delivered – for a price. Be sure to ask what the deliver fees are ahead of time so you can budget wisely and be prepared.

Gratuities. Most of the time gratuities are not included in the initial wedding budget. Make sure you read the fine print in your contracts and estimates to see if your caterer is already adding that extra 20%. Make a list of all the people you need to tip included the band, DJ, photographer, florist, caterer, hairdresser, coatroom attendant, drivers, bartenders, servers, etc. Also make sure you have cash on hand on the day of your wedding. It’s a good idea to prepare tip envelopes ahead of time in order not to forget anyone.

Postage. Special envelopes – like the kind you’re probably sending your fancy invitations in – usually have an extra surcharge. If you’re including stamps for the RSVP envelope that’s also another added expense most couples forget about. Don’t forget about the stamps and envelopes for the thank you notes!

Wedding Party Gifts. It’s customary that you show gratitude to your bridesmaids and groomsmen for all their time and hard work. On average, it’s recommended that you spend between $75-$150 per person. This can quickly add up, so include this cost in your budget.

Set-up fees. Even if you’re bringing your own liquor you’re still likely going to end up paying a bar set-up fee or a cork fee. If the venue is helping set up your event on the big day, ask if they have a set-up fee as well.

Cake Cutting Fee. You can have your already overpriced cake..but if you want to eat it too, you’re probably going to have to pay a cake cutting fee first. These costs are a provision for the plates, forks and servers.

Tips to Save Money on Wedding Flowers

May 7, 2015 admin Leave a comment

Flowers are one of the biggest expenses when it comes to your wedding. However, you don’t necessarily have to waste a majority of your budget in this category. Here are a few tips to save money on wedding flowers without compromising the decor you’re dreaming of:

Look for wholesalers. When purchasing flowers, search for wholesalers or a flower farm for the best prices.

Choose a naturally floral setting for your reception. If you’re having an outdoor wedding, there are probably tons of beautiful flowers and landscaping details in place already.

Choose in-season flowers. Opt to decorate with flowers that are in-season since they tend to be cheaper.

Artificial flowers. Faux flowers tend to be cheaper and are a great option if you’re looking to save money. If you opt for this, you can also always rearrange them and re-use them in your new home!

Choose an alternative. Who said centerpieces always have to be flowers? You can always choose an alternative centerpiece such as framed photos, desserts, candles, favors, etc.

28 Questions You Should Ask Your Wedding Venue Before Signing a Contract

April 30, 2015 admin Leave a comment

When comparing wedding venue options, it’s important to make sure you understand all the details of each offer so you can compare wisely and choose the best option. After all, choosing the cheaper venue only to be later surprised by a bill with unexpected costs is no fairytale.

Here are some questions you should ask your wedding venue before signing a contract:

How many people can this location accommodate?
What dates are available in the month I’m considering?
What is the cancellation policy?
Do you have a weather contingency plan for outdoor spaces?
How much is the deposit? When is it due? Is it refundable? Is there a specific payment plan for the entire bill?
Is there an added charge for using my own vendors? Sometimes wedding venues have their own coordinators, caterers and other professionals that are already included in their cost. It’s vital that you clarify these details so you know which responsibilities fall on you as well as to avoid double booking the same professionals.
Can I bring my own food, drinks and cake? If you have the option to bring your own, discuss how it affects the price they first quoted you. Do they charge extra for this option or does it bring the original price down?
Are party rentals included in this package? Chairs, tables, tablecloths, etc. Also be sure to ask what color linens are available so that you know when planning your colors and theme.
Are there set up fees?
Is there a charge for parking? If there is valet parking or a parking garage you should decide if you or the guests are responsible for the charges.
What time can my vendors start setting up on the day of the wedding? How early can my deliveries be made?
Does the venue provide assistance getting gifts or décor back to a designated car or hotel room?
Is there a time limit? If so, what’s the cost of going over? Most venues only allow you to utilize the space for 4-6 hours.
Is there a coat check service?
What are the tax rates and other fees? State and local sales tax, hospitality fees, included gratuities, etc.
Price per person. If you are charged per person, make sure you clarify how they will arrive at the final number. Your hired professionals (photographer, videographer, band, etc) will also need to eat. You need to know if and how they will be counted. Do you get a discount rate for these vendors? Make sure you are aware of all taxes and service charges per person.
Do children have different pricing?
Can we do a food tasting prior to finalizing our menu selection? Is there an additional charge for this?
Do you provide cake cutting utensils?
Do you offer on-site coordination? If so, what services are available and is there an additional charge for them?
Do you offer any security services?
Do you have liability insurance? If the venue doesn’t provide it you should look into getting your own in case someone gets injured during your reception.
Do you provide overnight accommodations? Is there a discount for booking multiple rooms? Do you provide a complimentary room or upgrade for the newlyweds? What are the nearest hotels to the venue? (Some venues have partnerships with local hotels that offer a discount if you block rooms off).
Do you have signage to direct guests to my event?
What is the last possible date that we can make changes?
Do you have sound equipment and speakers or will they need to be rented?
Are there decoration limitations such as candles?
Who will be our point person before the wedding? What about the day of the wedding? Can we meet them now?

How to Avoid The Biggest Wedding Budget Pitfalls

April 16, 2015 admin Leave a comment

You’ve been dreaming about (and obviously planning) your wedding day since you were a little girl. Thanks to Pinterest, wedding planning is a whole new ballgame these days. However, all these endless ideas can really wreak havoc on your budget. Knowing wedding budget pitfalls and preparing for unforeseen costs is key to avoiding a minor heart attack when being presented with a swoon-inducing bill.

Plan the wedding you’ve always dreamed of without cleaning out your savings account with these tips on how to avoid the biggest wedding budget pitfalls.

Being unreasonable when setting your budget too low. Sitting down and planning a wedding budget is one of the first things you should do after getting engaged. However, many couples tend to experience sticker shock when they start talking to vendors and realizing how much it actually costs to have their fairytale wedding in the real world.Sound familiar? If this happens to you, make sure you revisit and reassess the budget conversation to be more reasonable. Don’t just start splurging because you think you need to.

Wedding Parties & Events. When you initially discuss your wedding budget, be sure to specify if that budget include all the other wedding parties and events (engagement party, bridal shower, engagement shoot, rehearsal dinner, etc). Depending on the size of your family and friends, these parties can all add up to almost as much as your wedding!
Spending too much on extras. Be careful when you’re purchasing extra-nice favors, expensive bridesmaids gifts, jewelry, wedding programs and accessories. Although these extra details can start out as small expenditures, they can really add up to a large amount.

Bridal Accessories. If you’re a fashionista bride and want to wear Louboutins or Manolo Blahniks as you strut down the aisle, remember that you’ll probably never wear those white shoes again. If you wouldn’t have it any other way, think about at least opting for a nude pair so that you can wear them again after your big day.

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