Summer Wedding Fashion Trends, Get in the Loop!

Not sure of what wedding fashions are in effect now that Spring is quickly turning to Summer? We wouldn't want you to find yourself in a fashion crisis! Check out some of these cool new ideas that are surfacing that are sure to put a sizzle in your Summer wardrobe!

Black Tie Wedding

Use this chance to break out your floor length evening gown! Popular summer colors are pink, champagne, coffee, or ivory. Dress it up even more with a shawl and clutch or a fabulously shiny necklace.

Cocktail Hour

For this kind of party, choose a flirty cocktail dress that pops with color. Show of your summer bod with a form fitting one, and top it off with a fun belt or sash.

Daytime Wedding

Daytime weddings allow you to break out all things floral. Wanna really make your dress pop? Pick out something that compliments the theme of the wedding.

Destination Wedding

Summer beach weddings are definitely on the rise this season. Rock out with your toes in the sand while wearing something turquoise or coral- they scream beach wedding!

No matter the type of wedding, you will be ready to rock with these fun fashion trends! Throw your hair in a cool, light bun (summers can get hot!) and you'll be ready to dance the night away!



* Pictures from: newyorkdress.com~averybleu.blogspot.com~mysanfranciscobudgetwedding.com

Whats on the Royal Wedding Menu?

So we know the British Royal Family is definitely no stranger to tradition, but there is no way they have specific traditions for the wedding foods they eat, right? Wrong! While looking into a few of the fun fashion trends and traditions the wedding of Prince William to Kate Middleton would bring, we found a few different food related traditions as well. It sounds like a celebration fit for a king! 

A Wedding Breakfast for the Guests

After the reception, invited guests will join the newlywed couple at Buckingham Palace for a formal wedding breakfast (it will really be more like an afternoon cocktail party by the time it starts). Over 600 guests have been invited, which is way more than Princess Diana's wedding to Prince Charles, which only had 120 people!

A Reception Hosted by the Queen

The wedding breakfast will be hosted by Queen Elizabeth herself. This means she gets the final say over all of the dishes served at the reception-things like smoked salmon on beet blinis and quail eggs sprinkled with celery salt. Interesting!

Toasting the Bride's Family

Not only will Prince Harry toast the bride and her family, but Prince William will toast Kate and her immediate family and thank them for being in attendance. Historically, the bride is to pay for the wedding, but hopefully the Royal Family was able to help them out!

A Multi Layered Cake

Traditionally, guests will be offered a piece of fruitcake, that they can have boxed and take home as small gifts (This is because supposedly fruitcake can be kept fresh for years... yum?). The actual wedding cake is usually a classy multi-tiered cake with white icing, and has been known to touch on almost five feet tall!

Non Traditional- A Bride's Cake and Groom's Cake

Not so similar to the 27 cakes Princess Diana had at her wedding, William and Kate will each have a cake of their own. Kate's will be the traditional fruitcake, and William will be going against the grain with a chocolate McVitie's Cake. Yum!

A Menu Written in French

Despite a lack of translation, every menu presented at the Royal Wedding will be printed in French. Its a good thing the Prince speaks fluent French!

A Dish Named after Kate Middleton

It is tradition for the royal chefs to name one of their elaborate dishes after the bride. No one knows what it will be just yet, but it will probably be revealed at the wedding's second reception which takes place later in the evening.

Plenty of Beer!

Britains are no stranger to beer, so we know they will be throwing back a few brews in celebration. There has even been a beer brewed special for the occasion, called the 'Windsor Knot'.

Packing the Important Stuff

I am sure the LAST thing you want to do in all the hustle and bustle of last minute wedding planning is to pack your honeymoon suitcase. But unfortunately, it is unavoidable; especially if you don't want to leave it until last minute! Check out our top ten list of must haves on your honeymoon to make sure you don't forget a single thing.


1. Jacket/Sweater- No matter how tropical the place you are going will be, you always want to have one of these. You never know if an airport chill or cool evening breeze will catch you off guard!

2.  At least 1 nice outfit- Even if you are going hiking in the wilderness, its a smart thing to have a nicer outfit than the rest, in case a spur of the moment event or layover calls for it.

3. Deck of Cards- You never know what kind of delays or rainy days you may run into!

4. Ziplock baggies- Bring a few of all sizes; they will come in handy in the airports and for wet things or keeping things dry

5. Every single confirmation- You never know what could happen with a reservation, so it is good to have proof of everything just in case an issue arises.

6. Family Phone Numbers- Even though you have them in your phone, it is a good idea to carry them on a well stored paper, as well, just in case.

7. Travel Locks- Just make sure you don't misplace the keys!

8. Chargers- If you are relying on electronics, make sure you bring the appropriate chargers so you are not stuck in a rut!

9. All the contact lens supplies you will ever need- It would stink to be in a situation where you couldn't see any of the activities and views you were visiting!

10. Sunscreen- No matter how tan-prone you are, make sure to bring a little bit of this. You never know where it will be offered, and you don't want to be without it!


For a more extensive list, visit: http://wedding.theknot.com/honeymoons/honeymoon-planning/articles/master-honeymoon-packing-checklist.aspx

Table Numbers? Why, Yes!

Thinking of having assigned seating at your wedding? It's not necessarily needed, but its a nice way to be able to be more organized and know where your guests are sitting. If you choose to have assigned seating, table numbers and place cards are a definite must- They are a fun and creative way to incorporate your theme into the table decor. And it is always fun for guests to try and find where they are sitting. Need some ideas for your table number and place cards? Check out a few of our favorites below!

This is a fun idea from a wedding we did with Big City Catering. Assignments were written on a vintage window as guests walked in.

Many couples choose to, instead of doing table numbers, use table names. You can choose the names of significant and memorable places in the relationship

Name cards dont always have to be on paper! Objects, such as the rocks above, or pieces of fruit, are a unique way to let guests know where they sit.

 

This is a fun way to tie in a 'green' or vintage wedding. Look hard? It can be made at home with poster board!

Do you and your special one have a sweet tooth? This picture is from a Georgia-themed wedding, which let the guests know where to sit while giving them a tasty treat to take home.

Whatever you choose to do with your place settings, make it reflect you and there is no going wrong!

* Pictures courtesy of : Bigcitycatering.com~

Wedding Favors? Absolutely!

Not sure whether to include favors in your planning budget? We highly recommend it! Favors are not only a nice and meaningful way to thank your guests for sharing your special day with you, but they can also be a fun way to tie in a theme or accent a color scheme. Not sure of what to choose? We've got you covered with some fun (and cost friendly) favor ideas.

Bookmarks such as these are a good way to incorporate a Nautical Theme, while giving your guests something cute they will be able to use later.



Bottle stoppers are another great way to tie in a theme, while giving a favor that can be used over and over. There are tons of different designs that can be placed on top!

Bride and Groom boxes are cute and unique ways to give out things such as color coordinated candy, or home made cookies.

Candles are a great way to give a gift that will give your friends a reminder of what fun they had at your wedding.

Tea leaves or infusers are a great way to tie in a Brunch themed wedding, or a wedding with tea time. If a guest likes a tea they tried, they can take it home for another time!

Are you and your fiance big on planting and outdoors? This is a cute way to incorporate a little bit of what you both like.

Wine glasses, stemmed and stemless, are a fun way to incorporate your names or initials and the wedding date, so guests will always be reminded when they drink from them.

Not all favors have to be long lasting and elaborate- They can be simple and edible! Monogrammed candies are a cute way to show off your initials, and give your guests something to nibble on before the cake!

*photos courtesy of: glassjarswithlids.net~amaramedia.com~wedding53.com~bestweddinginfo.com

Seven Deadly Bridal Sins

If you are anything like us, you have lists and lists of things to do to get ready for the big wedding day, checking off things as they get accomplished. But here is a little twist to your routine- a list of what NOT to do. Brides sometimes make rash decisions which can end up affecting the outcome of the big day. So check off this quick list of what not to do, and you will be ready to go!


1. Do NOT crash diet. This is SO bad for you in general, not even to mention as it gets closer and closer to the wedding. While it is good to make sure you are sleek and healthy to look amazing in your dress, it can often times make you dull and dreary. Nutritionists say to maintain a healthy weight loss, eat about 1,300 calories a day and aim to lose only about 2-3 pounds a week.


2. Do NOT focus on having the perfect wedding. We know, you want to make sure eveything is absolutely perfect. But you do not need to show up everyone who ever has had a wedding before yours. Trying to be the best will make you forget about what is truly important- you and your significant other.


3. Do NOT put aside your parent's and family's feelings. No matter when or how you are getting married, it is a big adjustment for everyone. Make sure to keep in mind the opinions and feelings of all involved and know that when they try to push their opinions on your, it's because they care.


4. Do NOT blow your wedding budget. Diamond studded silverware may SOUND like a good idea, but in the grand scheme of things may be something that you can do without. It may seem like not a bad idea to spend a little more than you were planning to, but you can plan an amazing wedding without having to pay it off for the next few years- Expenses add up quickly! Stick to the budget and you are sure to be able to have a fantastic event.


5. Do NOT let the wedding be the only thing you talk of. It is absolutely ok for you to be excited- we would be worried if you werent! But talking endlessly about the wedding gets old for everyone. Plus, it reveals all the surprises that should happen at then wedding!


6. Do NOT neglect your fiance. Even if they dont want to go over all the tiny details with you, it is still important to make time for the two of you. Planning can be stressful, especially if you are doing most of it yourself. Try to set aside at least one night a week for date night and spend some quality time together!


7. Do NOT become a total diva. Need we say more? While the big day is absolutely about you, not every single second up until then is as well. Most of the time acting like a dive will cause arguments and anger between ou and your family and friends, so just avoid it at all cost and have fun!










* inspired by~http://www.bridalguide.com/etiquette/the-seven-deadly-bridal-sins?page=0,4

There's a Bridesmaid Dress for Everyone

Bridesmaids come in all different types: short, tall, small, big, young, old- we love them all! However, each one is different, which means that your favorite style bridesmaid dress may not work for everyone. While your wedding day is ultimately about what you, the bride, want, it is important to make sure your girls feel comfortable in what you have chosen for them. An idea we especially like is that of using different style dresses for each member of the party. That way, not only will each girl's body type and style be accented in a way that is comfortable to them, but it also acts as a subtle yet visually pleasing detail to your wedding... And it makes the pictures look fabulous, too! Check out some of the different styles today's brides are choosing from:

*Pictures courtesy of: w-weddinggowns.com~simplyandforever.com~buyingweddingdresses.biz~davidsbridal.me

Day of Coordinator- To Have or Not to Have

So lemme guess- Spring has sprung and you are starting to plan all the intimate details of your big day. You intend on seeing that every item is attended to, which is no easy feat! (Trust us, we know) There is no right answer to if you need a Day of Coordinator or not, so we answered a few questions to help explain why having a Day of Coordinator on your special day may (or may not) be a huge help to you.

Why do you need a wedding coordinator?

• While planning may seem like a walk in the park, once you get started it can sometimes be overwhelming. Planners know even the tiniest details to include, and are used to setting a timeline to make sure all the details get the correct amount of attention.
• Planners can help create a manageable and reasonable budget, and most of the time can utilize connetions they have in the industry.
• Coordinators will work with you to make a timeline for the day of, so that they can deal with making sure all the vendors are where they need to be when they need to be there- Something you definitely do not want to be worrying about as you walk down the isle!

What should I look for in a coordinator? What questions should I ask?

• The #1 thing you want to pay attention to is if they are organized. You also want to feel at ease with them- You want to make sure you can express all your wants and needs to them in a comfortable way.
• A few questions to ask may be: How long have they been in the business? Do they have pictures and samples from past weddings? Are there certain vendors or venues they do or dont work with?

Is there a certain package I should get?

• Always ask if a coordinator has a planning package. There are generally 3 different types:
• Consultation Only: Your planner will send you off in the right direction, but you will only meet a few times. They will not be there the day of, but will make sure to provide you with enough information for you to be successful.
• Planning Preparation: They will get you set us with a planning binder and get you in contact with your vendors. They are more involved in the planning process, and will be there the day of if they can.
• Full Wedding Package: This is when you hire the coordinator for the actual day of the event. While their main day of work will be the day of, they will work with you a significant amount in the days and months leading up until the wedding.

Remember: It is completely up to you whether you choose to use a coordinator or not. But make sure to consider all the facts before making your decision. Happy Planning!

Pictures courtesy of: sheffields.com~penelopespitstop.net

White Out

I don't know about you, but we kind of like all this talk about wedding dresses being colors other than white. Don't get us wrong, white wedding dresses will always be beautiful and timeless, but we certainly aren't opposed to choosing something else. Below we help you explore your options:

White with an Accent: Too timid to step away from the traditional dress color? This is an excellent option for those looking to step out of the box, but only want to add a splash of color.

Ivory: In the mood for a traditional and classy look? Ivory is most seen in vintage and beach weddings. While it is the second most common color used for wedding dresses, it is still a nice deviation from the normal white.

Red: This color is definitely for those looking to make a statement! It is a stunning color, and also the color of love and passion. It is often the color of many Chinese wedding garments, as it represents good luck. The best time of year for this color is in the colder months around the Holidays.

Light Green: Green is the color of nature and life. A merry color, this may be best around Christmas or St. Patrick's Day. Don't want to seem too in touch with nature? A nice light green color will help get your desired effect, without being too overpowering.

Blue: Since it is the color of water, beach weddings and tropical themed weddings are where most blue dresses are found. It is a peaceful color and the color of faithfulness.

Black: Not necessarily a taboo dress choice! It definitely take a confident woman to wear this color on her wedding day. A color that shows elegance, you often times find it \paired with black-and-white themed weddings, or quirky and edgy weddings.

Choosing the Perfect Color

You've picked the date. The venue is booked. But now comes the hard part: Choosing your color scheme. There are so many factors to consider and colors you love that things can get a little overwhelming. Consider these simple tricks to help make the decision process a little less mind-boggling:

1. Consider the venue. Will your colors balance with the colors of the venue's carpets, decor, drapes, etc?

2. Coordinate with the time of year. Spring and Summer weddings tend to bring lighter, more pastel colors, while Fall and Winter colers are usually more bold.

3. Stuck in a rut? Play around with paint swatches. Hardware stores and paint websites have color wheels with about every color under the sun. This will help spark some ideas, and also help to narrow down specific colors so that when you decide on blue, you can know if it will be a robin's egg blue, turquoise, or navy.

4. Pair your colors well. If you choose to go with more than one color, choose a bold color and a light color that will complement each other. Try to steer clear of multiple bold colors that will overpower the decor.

5. Imply your colors to everything. Think about how each color would look on linens, flower arrangements, invitations, bridesmaids, bridal accents, table assignments, up-lighting, etc.

6. Consider everyone. While this is your big day, don't forget when choosing your colors that you have to dress your bridesmaids as well. Not every color may look good on everyone.

Happy Choosing!

*Pictures courtesy of theknot.com