Kids and Wedding…To Invite or Not to Invite

When going over your guest list, chances are, the question of kids is going to come up.   It is rude to have an adult only reception?  Do you have to invite everyone’s kids? These are questions that couples often ask themselves and struggle to find the answer.  The reality is, there are many couples out there that would like to have their wedding & reception children free.  There are many pro’s to having a child free wedding that is appealing to couples. Some reasons being very common; children can be very disruptive to weddings and the atmosphere is different with children running around.   Another reason is, and it’s a big one, most places charge per head, no matter how young the child is and that can add up quick on a tight budget.

If you would like your reception to be adult only, then do it.  It is your reception, and there is nothing in the rule book that states you have to invite everyone’s children. If this is your decision, how you state this decision is extremely important.  Make sure you use careful wording on your invites.  Do not use phrases such as NO KIDS, NO CHILDREN, etc. The only correct wording is “Adults Only Reception Please”.  As a courtesy to your guests, you may want to do some research for local babysitting services (or hotel babysitting services) to let them know what is available.

Now let’s say, you’ve decided to invite children, what should you do? Get them involved.  A busy child is less likely to cause commotion.  Asking little ones for a special favor like “Can you be a big help and watch the guest book for me” goes a long way, they feel needed.  Avoid having really small children be the flower child or ring bearer…more times than not they get scared and may not want to do it when the time comes.  For those that do make it down the aisle, allow them to go back and sit with their parents.  At the reception, it is recommended to arrange for a kids table.  Have activities for all the ages you know are attending.  Coloring books, crafts, snacks, a portable DVD player, etc. These activities will keep them occupied and let your guests have a great time!

Late Night Munchies

Last night are the trend that keeps getting bigger and bigger…and maybe we shouldn’t even call it a trend because it looks like it is here to stay!
Weddings are becoming more of a party and couples are trying harder than ever to make it the best event ever. With guests dancing up storm later and later, after parties are becoming the norm. The after parties are generally a smaller gathering, more intimate and sometimes in a different room nearby. One thing is a common denominator though, no matter who is on the after party guest list, they will all be hungry!
Late night food can go together with theme of the wedding or be completely different and on their own. These late night delights are often served on small plates or mini shooter glasses so it’s easier to handle. Pizza, ice-cream sundae bars, milk and cookie pairings, fruit cups, parfaits, mini empanadas, tacos, fries, coffee bar, you get the idea, your choices are endless. Having an outdoor wedding? You can keep up with the trend of food trucks, and have your food delivered! Have a s’mores fire pit. Who doesn’t love making s’mores, so much fun!
Late night snacks are a fabulous way of making your guests happy, you from starving and the party from ending! Happy snacking!

One of the top wedding regrets; Photography

Brides go through a long process when it comes to the planning of her wedding. As with any process, especially ones you probably haven’t experienced many times if not ever, mistakes are made. It’s inevitable, it just happens!

Surveys have been done at what the biggest regrets are, and not surprisingly, right on top is photography. As with all of your wedding vendors, communication is key in developing a plan with your photographer. In today’s world, brides are bombarded with “artsy” photos, “photo-shopped” photos, and editorial shots. The days of posed pics of each side of the family separate and then together are virtually over. In saying that, the time frame to get these photos is longer than what people think they need. Overlooking the importance of setting aside time for photography is the biggest mistake. When things start running behind on your wedding day, thinking that the photographer can move faster just isn’t realistic.

The second biggest mistake is not telling your photographer ahead of time what you want. Don’t assume he knows that you want a picture with Uncle Joe and Aunt Sally at Sunset outside by their favorite tree. Giving a list of people and settings to your photographer ahead of time will help him make your wants and needs for your pictures come true.
Take time to really go over the photographer’s contract. Really consider what the packages are stating and what you want out them. Understand that contracts are for a certain amount of hours; they will leave when their contract time frame is up. It is generally easier to upgrade your package than downgrade.

Bottom line is; Put in a little extra time with your photographer and don’t assume he knows what you want. Be communicative and clear and you will be happy every time you look back at your wedding photos.

Unique Bridal Shower Venues

Does the idea of throwing your bestie’s bridal shower at your house not sound all that fun? Are you looking to do something a bit more out of the box? Ask yourself two questions…Do you want it in private or in public and do you want it outdoors or indoors? Once these are answered, you can figure it out from there!

• Favorite Brunch Spot – This is a great way to have amazing food and great mimosas without having to make it yourself! If you call in advance, chances are they can set aside a space for you away from everyone else. They may also be able to provide an extra table for gifts.
• Panoramic View – Find a place in town that is on the top floor of its building with panoramic windows. The view alone will be worth effort!
• Bridal Boutique – Some bridal boutiques will rent out space on off times for you to have your party. You will be in a place that is already decorated wedding-ish, and you can generally bring your own food and drinks (a deposit may be necessary)
• Theme Park – Not feeling the mushy, playing games, girly bridal shower? How about having it at a theme park? What’s more fun than running around, being silly, and riding on speeding roller coasters!
• A rented boat – Rent a boat at a local river or lake. You can bring food, drinks, cake and your gifts! Being on the water with a cool breeze in the sunshine, who’s in?!?
• Backyard Garden Shower – Why not have it outside in your own backyard? You could actually combine this with some brunch and it’s a win win!
• Local Gardens – If your backyard is not so picturesque, try a local garden. You may have to call ahead of time to reserve the space, but its well worth it when you have plenty of room and beautiful flowers to look at. This kind of location certainly cuts down the amount of décor needed!

Whatever you choose, make it intimate, make it fun and most of all, and make it memorable for the bride to be!

Candy Cakes!

I love things that remind me of being a kid and old school candy always brings a smile to my face….so when planning your wedding cake, why not a candy cake! Cake AND candy…Heck ya!

Traditional wedding cakes will always have their spot, but considering a candy cake is out of the box, exciting and gives guests something to talk about!  It could easily be a secondary cake for a dessert table or a late night table.  Try layering dots on top of the fondant for an awesome look, or putting in the lollipops we used to all love as kids!  What about sprinkling your cake with the gumdrops from candyland!  There are even “cakes” that aren’t really cakes, but candy put together in the shape of a cake.  Your guests would have so much fun taking their favorite piece one at a time! The possibilities are endless!

       

Bebe’s Bridal Line is here!

Most people know the boutique Bebe and for the general population, most people love their stuff.   The brand Bebe has been around for years and has proved to be a force in the fashion industry.  Well now, they are a force in the bridal industry! Bebe Bridal made it’s debut this year and it’s nothing short of Hot!

The current collection has a fabulous selection of wedding dresses that could rival any collection. True to Bebe style, they have kept some of their trademark funky while mixing in some traditional and romantic styles.  Long and elegant dominate the trend, but short with ruffles and/or feathers are also making a statement.  The details in some of the bodices are just downright gorgeous! Love the diversity!  But dresses are not all they have.  They also carry a bridal line of jewelry, accessories and shoes! (And the shoes are fab-u-lous!)

So go ahead and check it out for yourself! They have hit the mark and are sure to be a heavy hitter in years to come in wedding fashion!

               

Metallic; Making its way back!

You may have noticed that metallic is smokin’ hot lately! It’s off the runway and right into your closet.  Going out for a night on the town is one thing, but how do you incorporate it into your wedding?

It’s easier than you think! Wedding décor can be a collaboration of mixed metals, such as matte and/or texturized.  Mixing these two looks into your reception design will add depth and structure.  Another way are the dinner table linens.  Metallic fabrics and a mix of accessories will add a bit of style to any wedding!  Don’t forget about lounge furniture.  If you put together a lounge area at your reception, try using chairs with metallic fabrics for a little glitz and glamour!

Planning your Destination Wedding

The idea of getting away and not planning a “traditional” wedding lends the idea of simplicity, less headaches, not as many details…but planning a destination wedding can take on a life of its own if you are not careful!
Here are a few tricks of the trade that can help lead the way to the wedding of your dreams.

                                                                               Some Do’s

• Remember, you are getting away, so in the majority of your planning, the rule of thumb should be, “less is more”. Don’t go overboard.
• Consider a wedding planner. It becomes very difficult to plan a wedding that is far away from home. A wedding planner can send you pics of the venue, pics chairs, give you advice on the area, etc. Her knowledge will be invaluable.
• Negotiate. This is where a planner can help. But if you don’t have one, it’s a skill you should use. It’s not technically always about getting the dollar amount down, but also getting the most bang for your buck. What will “they throw in” if you “buy this”. Make sure you are getting the most out of the deal.
• Arrive a few days early. Getting to your destination 3-5 days early will save you many headaches. It will allow you to walk your venue, get to know the area and schedule a hair & makeup trial. Hair disasters are common when you are in a new environment and you didn’t have a practice session.
• Consider the weather. Try to make sure your bridal attire matches the climate and people are uncomfortable.
• Tell your guests plenty ahead of time. Make sure you get your save the dates out asap!

Some Don’ts

• Don’t assume anything with vendors or deals. Make sure to get everything in writing.
• Don’t over do it for your guests. They may want to take a mini vacation and do their own thing. Let them fend for themselves and keep the stress from you.
• Don’t budget on your photography. You are most likely at a beautiful resort where sunsets are the perfect backdrop. Don’t look back in regret about moments you didn’t catch and photos you don’t have. It happens ALL THE TIME. Pictures, pictures, pictures.

Most of all, don’t stress! Things will go wrong, it happens. When it does, take a step back, breathe, relax and a solution will be found.

Happy Planning!

A Brunch Wedding

So you are trying to budget and save but are running out of ideas. What else can you do? Have you considered a Sunday Brunch wedding vs a Saturday night wedding? Who doesn’t love brunch? You sit outside with your friends, have a mimosa or bloody mary, eat yummy light food and socialize with your friends…why not make it a wedding?

Having your wedding on Sunday Brunch saves a few ways.
A. Venue price is considerably lower. You will save a chunk on this alone.
B. You don’t have to have an open bar. Serve Champagne, Mimosas and Bloody Mary’s and you are done. The difference in your alcohol bill will be something to smile about.
And C. Food. Breakfast/light lunch food is less expensive than a sit down steak dinner. Even with table service and an omelet bar, your bill will come out cheaper. How fun is it to make your own omelet, have mimosa’s with friends and enjoy the day outside…who’s in!?!?

Alternative Wedding Bouquets

Wedding bouquets have come a long way over the years. Trends have come and gone and more recently, the use of alternate bouquets has become popular. What would an alternate bouquet be? Technically, it would be anything other than fresh flowers. There are many out there.

• Beaded Bouquets
• Paper Flowers
• Glass or Acrylic
• Feathers
• DIY with felt and buttons Wire bouquets

The choices are endless! You can have so much fun picking different materials out and injecting your personality into it. Mix and match materials, match items to your wedding theme. It can be anything you want. So what about the tradition of throwing the bouquet? No biggie, you can have the florist make a mini bouquet for you to toss. (or to give to someone special.) Then it’s a win win for you, a little traditional and a little modern all wrapped into one!