By Bridget Mora
The receiving line might seem like an antiquated or outdated tradition, but the truth is that they still have an important role to play in a wedding. For a celebration of any size, a simple receiving line is by far the easiest way to ensure that the host greets all of his or guests, which is a must. Conversely, it is also the simplest way for every guest to have a chance to extend best wishes and congratulations to the newlyweds, which is a must for guests. With the reasons to have a receiving line at your wedding clear, this is what you need to know about how to arrange one.
First of all, a receiving line should never be held inside a house of worship. That is because you cannot act as host inside God's house. There are two very good options for the receiving line location. One is to have it at the reception venue as guests arrive. The other possibility is to receive your guests outside of the church immediately following the ceremony. This is often the easiest thing to do logistically, as so many couples will have photo sessions during the cocktail hour of the reception, making it hard to find a good time to arrange a receiving line at the reception site.
There is much uncertainty about who should participate in a receiving line. The people who absolutely must be there are the bride, the groom, and their mothers. The fathers of the happy couple will often stand in the line as well, but they may duck in and out to mingle if the line is long, especially if it is being done during the cocktail hour. If any of the parents of the newlyweds have remarried, their new spouses should absolutely be invited to participate in the receiving line. Deal with any animosity between the exes and the new spouses by separating them in the receiving line.
It is traditional for bridesmaids to be in the receiving line as well, although groomsmen don't tend to make an appearance. Although customary, it is not absolutely necessary for the entire group of bridesmaids to participate; if you are trying to keep the line moving, it would be okay to ask only the maid of honor to stand in the line and set the other ladies free. Be sure that your wedding party knows in advance whether or not they will need to gather up at a certain time and place to be in the receiving line.
People often wonder what on earth to say in a receiving line, whether they are one of the participants or a guest moving through the line. It is not actually as intimidating as it may seem, because the idea is to be very brief with your remarks to keep the line moving briskly. The reception is the time to have more in-depth conversations and catch up with family and friends. The receiving line is just a quick meet and greet, and guests should avoid holding up the line by speaking too long with any one person.
There are some standard things to say in a receiving line, and of course, you may personalize them if you wish (if you are meeting someone you do not know, just stick with the standard pleasantries). Always offer best wishes to the bride and congratulations to the groom. Tell the bride's mother how beautiful the ceremony was and tell the groom's father what a lucky man his son is to have found such a wonderful bride. It is always appropriate to tell any of the wedding party how pretty they look or to admire their wedding jewelry. When introducing yourself to a stranger, a few words about how you know the bride and groom would be nice. As for the people in the wedding party, they should thank all of the guests for joining them and express appreciation for their kind words. Other safe comments include telling a guest how pretty her dress and jewelry are or saying how perfect the weather is for a wedding. Don't worry too much about being original, as long as you are pleasant and brief, the receiving line will be a success.
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about weddings, etiquette, and society. At http://silverlandjewelry.com/ we offer a stunning collection of wedding jewelry for the bride, bridesmaids, mothers, and guests. All jewelry orders over $99 receive free shipping.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=558711&ca=Marriage
Friday, July 9, 2010
Wedding After-Party Ideas
By Bridget Mora
If you can't stand the thought of your wedding ending, why not keep the fun going into the wee hours of the morning? After the formal reception concludes, more and more couples are inviting their friends to keep celebrating with them in an after-party. Take a look at these great ideas for wedding after-parties.
The after-party should reflect your taste and also the tastes of your friends. For instance, if you and your friends love nature and being outside, this could be the inspiration for your post-reception celebration. After the reception officially ends, invite your friends to join you around a bonfire for singing, dancing, and even homemade s'mores. It is a fun way to kick back and relax with your close friends, especially if a lot of them will be coming in from out of town. Just be sure to note on the invitations that a bonfire will follow the reception and let guests know to bring a casual change of clothes so they can fully enjoy the experience.
Another really fun idea for a wedding after-party is a karaoke party. Hire a d.j. and bring in the microphones and other equipment to encourage everyone to get up on stage and belt out their favorite tunes. The conclusion of a wedding is a great time for a karaoke party, because most people will already have a few shots of “liquid courage” in them to help them release their inner diva. The bride should be sure to have a sassy party dress to change into, along with big sparkly Swarovski crystal earrings to really get into the party spirit. Is is cheating to practice your karaoke songs ahead of time? Probably, but as the bride, it is your perogative!
A swanky cocktail lounge is another excellent wedding after-party. If space permits, you can set up the lounge in a separate part of your reception venue. At the conclusion of the formal reception, invite your guests to join you in the lounge for specialty cocktails. Set up lots of comfy seating areas to encourage conversation. Low sofas and cushy chairs grouped around coffee tables are perfect. It would be great to hire a smoky lounge singer to perform at your after-party, or simply use recorded music to create the perfect ambiance. How about a white paillete cocktail dress for the bride, with a sparkling pair of Swarovski crystal earrings to match the lounge theme?
If most of your out of town guests will be staying in the same hotel, that could be a convenient location for a party after the reception. It could be as informal as an announcement that the newlyweds will be heading to the bar at such and such hotel, and they would love to see their friends there. If you want to be a little more organized about it, see if the hotel has a private room in their lounge or restaurant. Another option is to rent a suite in the hotel and stock it with drinks and snacks for a fun after-party. Any of these options are very appealing when the wedding is done by the early evening and guests will be looking for something to do for the rest of the night. Keeping the party going sure beats staring at the walls in your hotel room!
Almost anything can work for a wedding after-party, as long as it is fun and not too stuffy. After the formalities of the wedding, it is great to let your hair down, so to speak. Everyone could head out to a nightclub for dancing, they could go the diner that was the favorite hangout during your college years, or it could even be a party in your living room. Wherever you decide to host your wedding after-party, spread the word in advance by email or by word of mouth, or just make an announcement at the end of the reception. There is nothing like keeping a great time going on all night!
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about weddings, style, and etiquette. Visit us at http://silverlandjewelry.com/ for the most fabulous collection of Swarovski crystal earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. All jewelry orders over $99 receive free shipping.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=549458&ca=Marriage
If you can't stand the thought of your wedding ending, why not keep the fun going into the wee hours of the morning? After the formal reception concludes, more and more couples are inviting their friends to keep celebrating with them in an after-party. Take a look at these great ideas for wedding after-parties.
The after-party should reflect your taste and also the tastes of your friends. For instance, if you and your friends love nature and being outside, this could be the inspiration for your post-reception celebration. After the reception officially ends, invite your friends to join you around a bonfire for singing, dancing, and even homemade s'mores. It is a fun way to kick back and relax with your close friends, especially if a lot of them will be coming in from out of town. Just be sure to note on the invitations that a bonfire will follow the reception and let guests know to bring a casual change of clothes so they can fully enjoy the experience.
Another really fun idea for a wedding after-party is a karaoke party. Hire a d.j. and bring in the microphones and other equipment to encourage everyone to get up on stage and belt out their favorite tunes. The conclusion of a wedding is a great time for a karaoke party, because most people will already have a few shots of “liquid courage” in them to help them release their inner diva. The bride should be sure to have a sassy party dress to change into, along with big sparkly Swarovski crystal earrings to really get into the party spirit. Is is cheating to practice your karaoke songs ahead of time? Probably, but as the bride, it is your perogative!
A swanky cocktail lounge is another excellent wedding after-party. If space permits, you can set up the lounge in a separate part of your reception venue. At the conclusion of the formal reception, invite your guests to join you in the lounge for specialty cocktails. Set up lots of comfy seating areas to encourage conversation. Low sofas and cushy chairs grouped around coffee tables are perfect. It would be great to hire a smoky lounge singer to perform at your after-party, or simply use recorded music to create the perfect ambiance. How about a white paillete cocktail dress for the bride, with a sparkling pair of Swarovski crystal earrings to match the lounge theme?
If most of your out of town guests will be staying in the same hotel, that could be a convenient location for a party after the reception. It could be as informal as an announcement that the newlyweds will be heading to the bar at such and such hotel, and they would love to see their friends there. If you want to be a little more organized about it, see if the hotel has a private room in their lounge or restaurant. Another option is to rent a suite in the hotel and stock it with drinks and snacks for a fun after-party. Any of these options are very appealing when the wedding is done by the early evening and guests will be looking for something to do for the rest of the night. Keeping the party going sure beats staring at the walls in your hotel room!
Almost anything can work for a wedding after-party, as long as it is fun and not too stuffy. After the formalities of the wedding, it is great to let your hair down, so to speak. Everyone could head out to a nightclub for dancing, they could go the diner that was the favorite hangout during your college years, or it could even be a party in your living room. Wherever you decide to host your wedding after-party, spread the word in advance by email or by word of mouth, or just make an announcement at the end of the reception. There is nothing like keeping a great time going on all night!
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about weddings, style, and etiquette. Visit us at http://silverlandjewelry.com/ for the most fabulous collection of Swarovski crystal earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. All jewelry orders over $99 receive free shipping.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=549458&ca=Marriage
Polka Dots and Stripes in Wedding Design
By Bridget Mora
Weddings are a festive occasion, so why not create a cheerful design that really says “celebration”? The traditional white and ivory weddings are lovely, of course, but it can be really fun to mix it up with bright colors and lively patterns. One of the most delightful combinations is polka dots and stripes; take a look at these ways to use them to create a fantastic wedding design.
Polka dots and stripes would be particularly great for a spring or summer wedding, as they are often created in color palettes which suit the season. The key to successfully combining the two patterns is to pick one color scheme to use for both. It could be pink and green, yellow and blue, or even orange, pink, and red. As long as you are consistent, it will look great! Dashes of a neutral like white or brown can help to keep your design from spinning out of control.
The bridesmaid dresses are a good place to begin using your polka dot and stripe theme. A very easy way to do it is to use one of the patterns for the bridesmaid dresses and the other as an accent ribbon on their bouquets. When the dresses have a busy print, keep the other details more simple. Single color bouquets will look very nice, and pearl bridesmaid jewelry will complement the colorful dresses. A very charming idea is to add white pearl accents in the bridesmaid bouquets to coordinate with their jewelry; the pops of white on a solid color bouquet will actually look much like polka dots, thus tying in beautifully with the overall wedding theme.
All of your wedding stationery can carry through the stripe and polka dot pairing. Create stylish invitations by choosing an invitation with a polka dot border to use with envelopes lined in a stripe. Remember that as long as all of the colors match, it will look great together. For the table numbers, pick a coordinating paper with an overall polka dot pattern and print the numbers in a bold font right over the printed background. As long as the ink is dark, the numbers should be very easy to read, and it will be a cute detail.
Speaking of details, your centerpieces should always coordinate with your wedding design theme. There are so many ways to achieve this with stripes and polka dots. One trend right now is to cover boxes with a fabric instead of using standard glass vases. How about a striped fabric for your centerpiece vessels? Then fill with a cheerful arrangement of flowers. If you like, you can even play up the polka dot idea by creating “dots” of flowers. Use blossoms which can be packed together into a very tight ball, such as roses or carnations, and then add small flowers in a contrasting color at regular intervals. For instance, you could create a round arrangement of pink carnations and insert small lime green Kermit mums for the cutest and preppiest pink and green wedding centerpiece ever. It is so cute and original - your guests are sure to love it!
Be careful not to overwhelm your reception space with pattern. If you opt for a bright and busy centerpiece, balance it out with a solid tablecloth in a coordinating hue. You can always bring in more of the signature patterns in the napkins and placecards to keep the tables looking lively and fun, without going totally over the line into visual overload. Of course, the wedding cake is a natural for using your stripes and polka dots, and it would be almost impossible to overdo it. Have fun mixing the two patterns on alternating tiers or doing a cake with fondant polka dots trimmed out in striped ribbon around the base of the layers. It would be the perfect way to show off your wedding theme and add spice to the reception.
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about weddings, design, and jewelry. Your bridesmaids will love the pearl bridesmaid jewelry created by http://silverlandjewelry.com/. You will love getting free shipping on your jewelry order over $99, so treat your bridesmaids to something beautiful for your wedding.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=558709&ca=Marriage
Weddings are a festive occasion, so why not create a cheerful design that really says “celebration”? The traditional white and ivory weddings are lovely, of course, but it can be really fun to mix it up with bright colors and lively patterns. One of the most delightful combinations is polka dots and stripes; take a look at these ways to use them to create a fantastic wedding design.
Polka dots and stripes would be particularly great for a spring or summer wedding, as they are often created in color palettes which suit the season. The key to successfully combining the two patterns is to pick one color scheme to use for both. It could be pink and green, yellow and blue, or even orange, pink, and red. As long as you are consistent, it will look great! Dashes of a neutral like white or brown can help to keep your design from spinning out of control.
The bridesmaid dresses are a good place to begin using your polka dot and stripe theme. A very easy way to do it is to use one of the patterns for the bridesmaid dresses and the other as an accent ribbon on their bouquets. When the dresses have a busy print, keep the other details more simple. Single color bouquets will look very nice, and pearl bridesmaid jewelry will complement the colorful dresses. A very charming idea is to add white pearl accents in the bridesmaid bouquets to coordinate with their jewelry; the pops of white on a solid color bouquet will actually look much like polka dots, thus tying in beautifully with the overall wedding theme.
All of your wedding stationery can carry through the stripe and polka dot pairing. Create stylish invitations by choosing an invitation with a polka dot border to use with envelopes lined in a stripe. Remember that as long as all of the colors match, it will look great together. For the table numbers, pick a coordinating paper with an overall polka dot pattern and print the numbers in a bold font right over the printed background. As long as the ink is dark, the numbers should be very easy to read, and it will be a cute detail.
Speaking of details, your centerpieces should always coordinate with your wedding design theme. There are so many ways to achieve this with stripes and polka dots. One trend right now is to cover boxes with a fabric instead of using standard glass vases. How about a striped fabric for your centerpiece vessels? Then fill with a cheerful arrangement of flowers. If you like, you can even play up the polka dot idea by creating “dots” of flowers. Use blossoms which can be packed together into a very tight ball, such as roses or carnations, and then add small flowers in a contrasting color at regular intervals. For instance, you could create a round arrangement of pink carnations and insert small lime green Kermit mums for the cutest and preppiest pink and green wedding centerpiece ever. It is so cute and original - your guests are sure to love it!
Be careful not to overwhelm your reception space with pattern. If you opt for a bright and busy centerpiece, balance it out with a solid tablecloth in a coordinating hue. You can always bring in more of the signature patterns in the napkins and placecards to keep the tables looking lively and fun, without going totally over the line into visual overload. Of course, the wedding cake is a natural for using your stripes and polka dots, and it would be almost impossible to overdo it. Have fun mixing the two patterns on alternating tiers or doing a cake with fondant polka dots trimmed out in striped ribbon around the base of the layers. It would be the perfect way to show off your wedding theme and add spice to the reception.
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about weddings, design, and jewelry. Your bridesmaids will love the pearl bridesmaid jewelry created by http://silverlandjewelry.com/. You will love getting free shipping on your jewelry order over $99, so treat your bridesmaids to something beautiful for your wedding.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=558709&ca=Marriage
Labels:
Wedding Themes
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Tips For Great Wedding Photographs
By Bridget Mora
You only get one chance to get the best photographs from your wedding, so it is important to plan ahead to get the most beautiful images possible. There is much more to planning for your wedding pictures than merely making up a list of your “must have” shots. Take a look at these tips for getting great wedding photographs.
Pre-wedding photography has become quite popular. Rather than having the wedding album start with images of the ceremony, brides often have their photographer start by capturing the moments leading up to the start of the event. These are often pictures of the bride and her attendants getting ready for the wedding, and they can be some of the loveliest images in any wedding album. Consider your background carefully if you plan to have pre-wedding pictures taken. If your bedroom or living room is cluttered, the background will distract from the beauty of the moment as captured by the photographer. Brides who live in cramped apartments may even wish to consider getting dressed before the ceremony at a more spacious location, such as the home of a friend or a hotel room. This will allow the photographer room to step back and get full length pictures of your gown, veil, and bridal jewelry.
Of course every bride wants to look her best on her wedding day, but many do not realize how valuable the services of a professional makeup artist and hair stylist can be. No matter how low key your wedding may be, to get that flawless bridal look in your pictures, it is best to turn to the experts for your beauty care. Many brides think that they can do their own makeup, or that they do not need to wear makeup at all, but it is important to have good makeup when you are being photographed. The pros know how to apply cosmetics with staying power so that you look just as beautiful in the cake cutting photos late in the wedding as you did in the beginning of the ceremony. It is also important to know how boldly to apply your makeup for your wedding day. The usual natural look will tend to look washed out in pictures, so most makeup artists will use colors which are just a hint brighter than your everyday style (don't worry, you won't look like a clown!).
You know how unflattering some lighting can be? Good lighting will have the opposite effect, making everyone look more attractive. Nix the harsh overhead lights which will cast strong shadows in your wedding pictures. Softer light will make for more beautiful photos...as long as the room does not end up too dim. Since a lot of the action at a wedding reception takes place on the dance floor, do not overlook that pivotal area when designing your wedding lighting scheme. Photographers also recommend that the newlyweds dance their entire first dance alone before inviting guests to join them on the dance floor. This allows your photographer more opportunities to capture a few stunning images of that memorable moment.
Finally, be sure to let your photographer know that what you really want is for him to capture the excitement of the wedding day and the personalities of everyone there. Although most couples will still want some of the traditional posed group shots, candids are much better in telling the story of your wedding day in pictures. All those images of laughing, dancing, and smiling people will make your wedding album a pleasure to look through year after year.
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about weddings, style, and etiquette. Treat yourself to beautiful bridal jewelry from http://silverlandjewelry.com/ and receive free shipping on your jewelry order over $99.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=553869&ca=Marriage
You only get one chance to get the best photographs from your wedding, so it is important to plan ahead to get the most beautiful images possible. There is much more to planning for your wedding pictures than merely making up a list of your “must have” shots. Take a look at these tips for getting great wedding photographs.
Pre-wedding photography has become quite popular. Rather than having the wedding album start with images of the ceremony, brides often have their photographer start by capturing the moments leading up to the start of the event. These are often pictures of the bride and her attendants getting ready for the wedding, and they can be some of the loveliest images in any wedding album. Consider your background carefully if you plan to have pre-wedding pictures taken. If your bedroom or living room is cluttered, the background will distract from the beauty of the moment as captured by the photographer. Brides who live in cramped apartments may even wish to consider getting dressed before the ceremony at a more spacious location, such as the home of a friend or a hotel room. This will allow the photographer room to step back and get full length pictures of your gown, veil, and bridal jewelry.
Of course every bride wants to look her best on her wedding day, but many do not realize how valuable the services of a professional makeup artist and hair stylist can be. No matter how low key your wedding may be, to get that flawless bridal look in your pictures, it is best to turn to the experts for your beauty care. Many brides think that they can do their own makeup, or that they do not need to wear makeup at all, but it is important to have good makeup when you are being photographed. The pros know how to apply cosmetics with staying power so that you look just as beautiful in the cake cutting photos late in the wedding as you did in the beginning of the ceremony. It is also important to know how boldly to apply your makeup for your wedding day. The usual natural look will tend to look washed out in pictures, so most makeup artists will use colors which are just a hint brighter than your everyday style (don't worry, you won't look like a clown!).
You know how unflattering some lighting can be? Good lighting will have the opposite effect, making everyone look more attractive. Nix the harsh overhead lights which will cast strong shadows in your wedding pictures. Softer light will make for more beautiful photos...as long as the room does not end up too dim. Since a lot of the action at a wedding reception takes place on the dance floor, do not overlook that pivotal area when designing your wedding lighting scheme. Photographers also recommend that the newlyweds dance their entire first dance alone before inviting guests to join them on the dance floor. This allows your photographer more opportunities to capture a few stunning images of that memorable moment.
Finally, be sure to let your photographer know that what you really want is for him to capture the excitement of the wedding day and the personalities of everyone there. Although most couples will still want some of the traditional posed group shots, candids are much better in telling the story of your wedding day in pictures. All those images of laughing, dancing, and smiling people will make your wedding album a pleasure to look through year after year.
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about weddings, style, and etiquette. Treat yourself to beautiful bridal jewelry from http://silverlandjewelry.com/ and receive free shipping on your jewelry order over $99.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=553869&ca=Marriage
The Post-Wedding Brunch
By Bridget Mora
As the wedding day has morphed into the wedding weekend, one event that has become quite popular is the post-wedding brunch. Although some brides may cringe at the idea of another event to organize and some guests feel like enough is enough already, personally I love the brunch the day after the wedding. It gives everyone a chance to visit a little more before heading out of town, and besides, who doesn't love brunch? This is what you need to know about planning a post-wedding brunch.
First of all, the bride does not have to be the one to plan a day-after brunch. Her parents could host it, the groom's parents could host, or even a grandparent could organize the brunch in honor of the newlyweds. Second of all, the post-wedding brunch does not need to be a fancy event at all. By far the easiest way to do it is to book a private dining room in the hotel where most of the guests are staying. Don't worry about fancy flowers or custom linens; this is not the wedding, after all, just brunch. As long as it is a nice hotel (or restaurant, if you prefer), whatever they provide in the way of decorations will be absolutely fine.
The purpose of having another get-together the day after the wedding is to give everyone one more chance to see each other, which can be wonderful for families who are far-flung. One or two days just isn't enough time if you only get the whole group together for weddings and holidays. The brunch serves one very other important role: it is always fun to gossip about a great party the next day! This is the perfect opportunity for everyone to rehash the excitement of the day before while it is still fresh in their minds. (“What was Heidi thinking wearing that low cut dress to someone else's wedding?” or “Wasn't the band great last night? You should see the blisters I have from dancing all night in three inch heels!”) For the bride and groom, this is the time to get the real scoop on all the interesting things that happened at their wedding – so fun!
Unless your family is filled with teetotalers, the post-wedding brunch should be scheduled to start no earlier than about 10 am. After a fun-filled day, people need to sleep in the next morning! Most brunches are buffet style, and should run for several hours, not be served at a fixed time. 10 am to noon or possibly even 1pm is a good schedule. This gives guests the flexibility to roll into brunch whenever they are ready, rather than having to rush out of bed to be at another event. Also, some people may wish to pack and check out of the hotel before stopping by the brunch, so this gives them the chance to do what they need without being rushed. Of course, the newlyweds should plan to stay for the entire length of the brunch, because everyone will want to see them and wish them well.
While the post-wedding brunch need not be formal, the newlyweds should still make an effort to look good. (So should the guests, for that matter!) Match your attire to the setting. For a country inn, a cashmere sweater, tweed skirt, and pearl earrings is a polished brunch outfit. In the summer, a pretty sundress with a tin cup necklace and pearl earrings would be just right. Around the holidays, even daytime parties like brunches tend to be dressier, so step it up a notch with a beaded sweater set and a knee length velvet skirt or a silk wrap dress. After all, your post-wedding brunch is your first chance to make a great impression as newlyweds!
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about wedding planning, style, and etiquette. You will love the beautiful collection of pearl earrings, necklaces, and bracelets at http://silverlandjewelry.com/. All jewelry orders over $99 receive free shipping, so visit today!
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=549460&ca=Marriage
As the wedding day has morphed into the wedding weekend, one event that has become quite popular is the post-wedding brunch. Although some brides may cringe at the idea of another event to organize and some guests feel like enough is enough already, personally I love the brunch the day after the wedding. It gives everyone a chance to visit a little more before heading out of town, and besides, who doesn't love brunch? This is what you need to know about planning a post-wedding brunch.
First of all, the bride does not have to be the one to plan a day-after brunch. Her parents could host it, the groom's parents could host, or even a grandparent could organize the brunch in honor of the newlyweds. Second of all, the post-wedding brunch does not need to be a fancy event at all. By far the easiest way to do it is to book a private dining room in the hotel where most of the guests are staying. Don't worry about fancy flowers or custom linens; this is not the wedding, after all, just brunch. As long as it is a nice hotel (or restaurant, if you prefer), whatever they provide in the way of decorations will be absolutely fine.
The purpose of having another get-together the day after the wedding is to give everyone one more chance to see each other, which can be wonderful for families who are far-flung. One or two days just isn't enough time if you only get the whole group together for weddings and holidays. The brunch serves one very other important role: it is always fun to gossip about a great party the next day! This is the perfect opportunity for everyone to rehash the excitement of the day before while it is still fresh in their minds. (“What was Heidi thinking wearing that low cut dress to someone else's wedding?” or “Wasn't the band great last night? You should see the blisters I have from dancing all night in three inch heels!”) For the bride and groom, this is the time to get the real scoop on all the interesting things that happened at their wedding – so fun!
Unless your family is filled with teetotalers, the post-wedding brunch should be scheduled to start no earlier than about 10 am. After a fun-filled day, people need to sleep in the next morning! Most brunches are buffet style, and should run for several hours, not be served at a fixed time. 10 am to noon or possibly even 1pm is a good schedule. This gives guests the flexibility to roll into brunch whenever they are ready, rather than having to rush out of bed to be at another event. Also, some people may wish to pack and check out of the hotel before stopping by the brunch, so this gives them the chance to do what they need without being rushed. Of course, the newlyweds should plan to stay for the entire length of the brunch, because everyone will want to see them and wish them well.
While the post-wedding brunch need not be formal, the newlyweds should still make an effort to look good. (So should the guests, for that matter!) Match your attire to the setting. For a country inn, a cashmere sweater, tweed skirt, and pearl earrings is a polished brunch outfit. In the summer, a pretty sundress with a tin cup necklace and pearl earrings would be just right. Around the holidays, even daytime parties like brunches tend to be dressier, so step it up a notch with a beaded sweater set and a knee length velvet skirt or a silk wrap dress. After all, your post-wedding brunch is your first chance to make a great impression as newlyweds!
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about wedding planning, style, and etiquette. You will love the beautiful collection of pearl earrings, necklaces, and bracelets at http://silverlandjewelry.com/. All jewelry orders over $99 receive free shipping, so visit today!
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=549460&ca=Marriage
Spring Centerpieces For Your Wedding
By Lindsay Crawford
With so many expenses in a wedding, one might find themselves a little low on the budget for things such as centerpieces. However, there are many different ways to have beautiful and elegant centerpieces on a low budget. Spring is the perfect time to take full advantage of nature’s most beautiful flowers in bloom. Here are some ideas to create your own beautiful centerpieces for a spring wedding.
Flowers- Flowers are the most popular centerpieces for weddings today. And when it’s the season of flowers, how can one not take the chance and incorporate them into your centerpieces? Some popular flowers that are in bloom in the spring include: cherry blossoms, tulips, roses, camellia, freesia, honeysuckle, bluebell, lilac, sunflower, orchid, daisy, etc. A really good idea is to use two different flowers. One fragrant flower, and one colorful flower. You don’t have to go over the top and spend crazy money on big flower arrangements. You can choose a couple of different flowers and put them in a nice white clay pot then sprinkle rose petals around the arrangement.
Lantern Centerpieces- Lantern centerpieces are so beautiful because you can do so much with them. It is also something that is both unique and different. You can add both candles and flowers to the lanterns. There are so many different designs of lanterns, and most of them are fairly cheap. There are glass lantern, gazebo lanterns, ghost leaf lanterns, vintage tea lanterns, Japanese lanterns, etc. A really cute idea is to place tealight candles around the lantern and then add a couple of different spring fruits next to the candles.
Water Centerpieces- Another popular yet inexpensive idea is water centerpieces. This sounds rather simple, but it really looks romantic. All you need is a shallow bowl filled with water. You can place marbles, rocks, crystals, etc at the bottom of the bowl. You can also place a handful of rose petals in the marbles (whatever you choose) at the bottom of the bowl. The rose petals at the bottom add color to the centerpiece. If you would like more color to the centerpiece another option is to add dye to the water. Don’t forget to add the floating candles on top!
Miscellaneous Ideas- Another inexpensive idea for centerpieces is candles that are different shapes and sizes. Wine and champagne glass candles look very elegant when lit. Also having an arrangement of pillar candles on the table surrounded by rose petals is a simple and beautiful idea. Another cute idea is an arrangement of frames of poems, bible verses, or even pictures of the couple can make a great centerpiece. You can also get 2-3 glass tier glass stands and fill them with fruits, sand, chocolates, confetti, etc.
Just because you might have a small budget for centerpieces, doesn’t mean you can’t have something fabulous and memorable. No matter what centerpiece you choose for your special day, make sure it reflects your personality. Make your wedding something special that everyone will remember.
About the Author: Lindsay Crawford is a writer for Wholesale Event Solutions, a company offering discount wedding and event planning supplies including tower vases, cloth tablecloths, wedding columns and arches, and much more!
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=554420&ca=Marriage
With so many expenses in a wedding, one might find themselves a little low on the budget for things such as centerpieces. However, there are many different ways to have beautiful and elegant centerpieces on a low budget. Spring is the perfect time to take full advantage of nature’s most beautiful flowers in bloom. Here are some ideas to create your own beautiful centerpieces for a spring wedding.
Flowers- Flowers are the most popular centerpieces for weddings today. And when it’s the season of flowers, how can one not take the chance and incorporate them into your centerpieces? Some popular flowers that are in bloom in the spring include: cherry blossoms, tulips, roses, camellia, freesia, honeysuckle, bluebell, lilac, sunflower, orchid, daisy, etc. A really good idea is to use two different flowers. One fragrant flower, and one colorful flower. You don’t have to go over the top and spend crazy money on big flower arrangements. You can choose a couple of different flowers and put them in a nice white clay pot then sprinkle rose petals around the arrangement.
Lantern Centerpieces- Lantern centerpieces are so beautiful because you can do so much with them. It is also something that is both unique and different. You can add both candles and flowers to the lanterns. There are so many different designs of lanterns, and most of them are fairly cheap. There are glass lantern, gazebo lanterns, ghost leaf lanterns, vintage tea lanterns, Japanese lanterns, etc. A really cute idea is to place tealight candles around the lantern and then add a couple of different spring fruits next to the candles.
Water Centerpieces- Another popular yet inexpensive idea is water centerpieces. This sounds rather simple, but it really looks romantic. All you need is a shallow bowl filled with water. You can place marbles, rocks, crystals, etc at the bottom of the bowl. You can also place a handful of rose petals in the marbles (whatever you choose) at the bottom of the bowl. The rose petals at the bottom add color to the centerpiece. If you would like more color to the centerpiece another option is to add dye to the water. Don’t forget to add the floating candles on top!
Miscellaneous Ideas- Another inexpensive idea for centerpieces is candles that are different shapes and sizes. Wine and champagne glass candles look very elegant when lit. Also having an arrangement of pillar candles on the table surrounded by rose petals is a simple and beautiful idea. Another cute idea is an arrangement of frames of poems, bible verses, or even pictures of the couple can make a great centerpiece. You can also get 2-3 glass tier glass stands and fill them with fruits, sand, chocolates, confetti, etc.
Just because you might have a small budget for centerpieces, doesn’t mean you can’t have something fabulous and memorable. No matter what centerpiece you choose for your special day, make sure it reflects your personality. Make your wedding something special that everyone will remember.
About the Author: Lindsay Crawford is a writer for Wholesale Event Solutions, a company offering discount wedding and event planning supplies including tower vases, cloth tablecloths, wedding columns and arches, and much more!
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=554420&ca=Marriage
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Sticky Wedding Attire Situations
By Bridget Mora
In a perfect world, you would breeze through planning your wedding without a hitch. In the real world, however, problems tend to crop up, some of which are caused entirely by other people! The wedding attire can be a particularly sore spot in some weddings, from the bridesmaids who refuse to wear anything but black to the mother-in-law who wants to upstage the bride with her outfit. These are some of the most common sticky wedding attire situations, along with suggestions about how to resolve them.
Problem No. One: Your wedding colors are pale pink and lilac and your bridesmaids are demanding black cocktail dresses. While it is always lovely when the bride is considerate of what her attendants would like to wear, the reality is that they need to fit with her vision of the wedding. If you are having a romantic garden wedding, black cocktail dresses will look completely out of place! The best you can do is choose a color that your bridesmaids can stand (perhaps a neutral like champagne if they are not pink and lilac kind of girls). Perhaps the bride could also mollify her bridesmaids by giving them a lot of say in the style of the dress, if not the color. Ultimately, though, being a bridesmaid means wearing the dress of the bride's choosing, so the bridesmaids need to grit their teeth and politely wear what the bride wants!
Problem No. Two: Your flamboyant mother-in-law always has to be the center of attention, even on your wedding day. She never got the memo that the mothers of the bride and groom should look pretty without upstaging the bride, and has decided to wear a fire engine red dress with a neckline cut down to her navel and about fifty pounds of wedding jewelry. This is a really tough situation for a bride, because she really cannot tell her mother-in-law what to wear (although if it were her own mother dressing inappropriately, it would be acceptable for the bride to speak up). The groom needs to be involved in this. He has to convince his mom to tone it down. If the groom cannot or will not get his mom to wear something less flashy, there is nothing much to be done about it. Yes, it will drive you crazy that she sticks out like a sore thumb in the group wedding photos, but in the end, it will do nothing to detract from the joy of your wedding or marriage.
Problem No. Three: The bride and her mother cannot agree on a wedding gown...and mom is paying for it. This problem is incredibly common, and also incredibly frustrating. There is something so sad about watching a bride fall in love with a wedding gown, only to have her mom shoot it down. Sometimes another person, like a sister or aunt, can help to convince mom that the bridal gown which she thinks is all wrong is really perfect (especially if her concerns are that it is not traditional enough). The bride can also show a willingness to compromise by offering to let her mom pick out her veil and wedding jewelry. If none of that works, you either have to go back to the drawing board and look for a new gown or buy the one you really want with your own money.
Problem No. Four: You are having a formal wedding and your dad “doesn't do formal”. Really, the bride should have a reasonable expectation that her father will dress appropriately for her wedding, but some men are really stubborn about dressing up. If your dad will wear a suit but not a tuxedo, have a black tie optional wedding instead of black tie. If he balks at even a suit, maybe you can talk him into wearing at least a dress shirt with nice pants and a tie. You could even buy the tie if he refuses! If all that fails, you will have point out to him how much more awkward he will feel as the only man in shorts and a t-shirt at a formal wedding than he would if he would just wear the appropriate outfit. You might even mention that some venues have dress codes requiring that men wear jackets. Hopefully, with a little coaxing, you can at least get your dad to wear something respectable, if not exactly what you had in mind!
People tend to feel very strongly about their clothing, even more so when it comes to formal attire. This is why so many sticky situations can crop up when planning a wedding. Hopefully, you now have the tools to manage any wedding attire dilemmas that come your way!
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about wedding planning, style, and etiquette. For a beautiful selection of wedding jewelry for the entire bridal party, visit us at http://silverlandjewelry.com/. Receive free shipping on any jewelry order over $99.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=549462&ca=Marriage
In a perfect world, you would breeze through planning your wedding without a hitch. In the real world, however, problems tend to crop up, some of which are caused entirely by other people! The wedding attire can be a particularly sore spot in some weddings, from the bridesmaids who refuse to wear anything but black to the mother-in-law who wants to upstage the bride with her outfit. These are some of the most common sticky wedding attire situations, along with suggestions about how to resolve them.
Problem No. One: Your wedding colors are pale pink and lilac and your bridesmaids are demanding black cocktail dresses. While it is always lovely when the bride is considerate of what her attendants would like to wear, the reality is that they need to fit with her vision of the wedding. If you are having a romantic garden wedding, black cocktail dresses will look completely out of place! The best you can do is choose a color that your bridesmaids can stand (perhaps a neutral like champagne if they are not pink and lilac kind of girls). Perhaps the bride could also mollify her bridesmaids by giving them a lot of say in the style of the dress, if not the color. Ultimately, though, being a bridesmaid means wearing the dress of the bride's choosing, so the bridesmaids need to grit their teeth and politely wear what the bride wants!
Problem No. Two: Your flamboyant mother-in-law always has to be the center of attention, even on your wedding day. She never got the memo that the mothers of the bride and groom should look pretty without upstaging the bride, and has decided to wear a fire engine red dress with a neckline cut down to her navel and about fifty pounds of wedding jewelry. This is a really tough situation for a bride, because she really cannot tell her mother-in-law what to wear (although if it were her own mother dressing inappropriately, it would be acceptable for the bride to speak up). The groom needs to be involved in this. He has to convince his mom to tone it down. If the groom cannot or will not get his mom to wear something less flashy, there is nothing much to be done about it. Yes, it will drive you crazy that she sticks out like a sore thumb in the group wedding photos, but in the end, it will do nothing to detract from the joy of your wedding or marriage.
Problem No. Three: The bride and her mother cannot agree on a wedding gown...and mom is paying for it. This problem is incredibly common, and also incredibly frustrating. There is something so sad about watching a bride fall in love with a wedding gown, only to have her mom shoot it down. Sometimes another person, like a sister or aunt, can help to convince mom that the bridal gown which she thinks is all wrong is really perfect (especially if her concerns are that it is not traditional enough). The bride can also show a willingness to compromise by offering to let her mom pick out her veil and wedding jewelry. If none of that works, you either have to go back to the drawing board and look for a new gown or buy the one you really want with your own money.
Problem No. Four: You are having a formal wedding and your dad “doesn't do formal”. Really, the bride should have a reasonable expectation that her father will dress appropriately for her wedding, but some men are really stubborn about dressing up. If your dad will wear a suit but not a tuxedo, have a black tie optional wedding instead of black tie. If he balks at even a suit, maybe you can talk him into wearing at least a dress shirt with nice pants and a tie. You could even buy the tie if he refuses! If all that fails, you will have point out to him how much more awkward he will feel as the only man in shorts and a t-shirt at a formal wedding than he would if he would just wear the appropriate outfit. You might even mention that some venues have dress codes requiring that men wear jackets. Hopefully, with a little coaxing, you can at least get your dad to wear something respectable, if not exactly what you had in mind!
People tend to feel very strongly about their clothing, even more so when it comes to formal attire. This is why so many sticky situations can crop up when planning a wedding. Hopefully, you now have the tools to manage any wedding attire dilemmas that come your way!
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about wedding planning, style, and etiquette. For a beautiful selection of wedding jewelry for the entire bridal party, visit us at http://silverlandjewelry.com/. Receive free shipping on any jewelry order over $99.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=549462&ca=Marriage
Small Ceremony, Big Reception
By Bridget Mora
Some brides cannot wait for the drama of their grand entrance at the wedding ceremony, as they process down the aisle in front of hundreds of guests. For other brides, not so much! A great way to balance the wish for a very intimate wedding ceremony with the desire to celebrate your marriage with all of your friends and family is to have a private ceremony and a large reception. This is a look at how to plan a small ceremony and a big reception.
There are plenty of reasons why a small wedding ceremony might make sense for you. Maybe you dream of getting married on a sun-swept beach on a far-flung tropical island paradise, and know that only your closest family will be willing to make the trip. Or perhaps you break out in a cold sweat every time you think about having hundreds of people watching you as you exchange your vows, and want a very low-key ceremony to alleviate your stage fright. Some brides who have lost their fathers find that the idea of walking down the aisle of a church in a traditional ceremony without their dad is too heartbreaking to even contemplate. A small, non-traditional ceremony can help in this situation.
There are also plenty of reasons to have a big reception. You may have a large circle of extended friends and family who you would love to have with you to celebrate the joy of your new marriage. Even if it is not that big a deal to the bride and groom, it might be a big deal for everyone else. Big wedding receptions are also a lot of fun. They have a great energy, especially on the dance floor, that you just can't get at a tiny party.
So if you want the best of both, a small ceremony and a large reception, the key is to figure out how to pull it all off. Destination weddings are a great way to keep the wedding guest list short without hurting feelings. Follow it up with a huge bash when you get home. It could be really fun to have a reception which is inspired by the place where you had your ceremony. A tropical party is always wonderful, and your guests will get a flavor of your ceremony, which they will love.
For couples who really want an ultra-tiny ceremony, a private service at home with only their parents, siblings, and one or two closest friends might be the way to go. Having a large wedding at home is a massive undertaking, but a very small one can easily be held in your living room with no special accommodations. While formal bridal gowns with ornate bridal jewelry sets might seem a bit much for a wedding at home, the bride can still wear a very pretty dress, perhaps with a short veil, and a pretty nosegay. Have a couple of bottles of Champagne on hand to toast the newlyweds at the end, and everyone can go out to a nice restaurant for dinner. That is all you need for a special private ceremony at home.
After your small ceremony, follow it up with a fabulous reception. Any style will do, from very traditional wedding reception in a country club or hotel to a casual barbeque for three hundred of your closest friends. If you opt for a traditional reception, by all means dress the part. For brides that means beautiful wedding gowns with classic sets of bridal jewelry and either suits or tuxedos for grooms. This is nice for the bride who did not wear a gown for a very small ceremony, as it gives her the chance to get all dressed up in full bridal regalia for the reception (perhaps minus the veil). The small ceremony followed by a large reception may be just the perfect combination for your wedding.
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about wedding planning, relationships, and etiquette. At http://silverlandjewelry.com/, we carry a breathtaking collection of bridal jewelry sets. All jewelry orders over $99 receive free shipping, so visit today!
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=549461&ca=Marriage
Some brides cannot wait for the drama of their grand entrance at the wedding ceremony, as they process down the aisle in front of hundreds of guests. For other brides, not so much! A great way to balance the wish for a very intimate wedding ceremony with the desire to celebrate your marriage with all of your friends and family is to have a private ceremony and a large reception. This is a look at how to plan a small ceremony and a big reception.
There are plenty of reasons why a small wedding ceremony might make sense for you. Maybe you dream of getting married on a sun-swept beach on a far-flung tropical island paradise, and know that only your closest family will be willing to make the trip. Or perhaps you break out in a cold sweat every time you think about having hundreds of people watching you as you exchange your vows, and want a very low-key ceremony to alleviate your stage fright. Some brides who have lost their fathers find that the idea of walking down the aisle of a church in a traditional ceremony without their dad is too heartbreaking to even contemplate. A small, non-traditional ceremony can help in this situation.
There are also plenty of reasons to have a big reception. You may have a large circle of extended friends and family who you would love to have with you to celebrate the joy of your new marriage. Even if it is not that big a deal to the bride and groom, it might be a big deal for everyone else. Big wedding receptions are also a lot of fun. They have a great energy, especially on the dance floor, that you just can't get at a tiny party.
So if you want the best of both, a small ceremony and a large reception, the key is to figure out how to pull it all off. Destination weddings are a great way to keep the wedding guest list short without hurting feelings. Follow it up with a huge bash when you get home. It could be really fun to have a reception which is inspired by the place where you had your ceremony. A tropical party is always wonderful, and your guests will get a flavor of your ceremony, which they will love.
For couples who really want an ultra-tiny ceremony, a private service at home with only their parents, siblings, and one or two closest friends might be the way to go. Having a large wedding at home is a massive undertaking, but a very small one can easily be held in your living room with no special accommodations. While formal bridal gowns with ornate bridal jewelry sets might seem a bit much for a wedding at home, the bride can still wear a very pretty dress, perhaps with a short veil, and a pretty nosegay. Have a couple of bottles of Champagne on hand to toast the newlyweds at the end, and everyone can go out to a nice restaurant for dinner. That is all you need for a special private ceremony at home.
After your small ceremony, follow it up with a fabulous reception. Any style will do, from very traditional wedding reception in a country club or hotel to a casual barbeque for three hundred of your closest friends. If you opt for a traditional reception, by all means dress the part. For brides that means beautiful wedding gowns with classic sets of bridal jewelry and either suits or tuxedos for grooms. This is nice for the bride who did not wear a gown for a very small ceremony, as it gives her the chance to get all dressed up in full bridal regalia for the reception (perhaps minus the veil). The small ceremony followed by a large reception may be just the perfect combination for your wedding.
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about wedding planning, relationships, and etiquette. At http://silverlandjewelry.com/, we carry a breathtaking collection of bridal jewelry sets. All jewelry orders over $99 receive free shipping, so visit today!
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=549461&ca=Marriage
Labels:
Small Ceremonies
Wedding Fundraisers: Good Idea or Bad Idea?
By Bridget Mora
Most little girls grow up dreaming of a beautiful wedding will all the trimmings. By the time you actually meet your Prince Charming, however, you have probably started to realize that a lavish wedding comes with a substantial price tag. Lately, I have been hearing about brides considering to have fundraisers to round up enough cash to plan their dream weddings. That brings us to this question: are wedding fundraisers a good idea or a bad idea?
Think, for a moment, about what most fundraisers are raising funds to finance. Schools, animal shelters, cancer research, and that sort of thing. In other words, big issues that affect large numbers of people (or animals). Although your wedding might be in the forefront of your life right now, if you are honest about it, it is probably not all that huge a deal to most of the other people in your life, besides your fiance. So, is it okay to have a fundraiser like you might for a charitable cause to raise money for your wedding? In a word, no. Sorry, brides!
Another type of wedding fundraiser is the dollar dance or wishing well, which is done at the reception itself. This is often used as a pool of cash for either the honeymoon trip or to give the newlyweds a little nest egg to start their new life together. While everyone would like a nice honeymoon and we would all like a pile of cash to put in the bank, it is not the responsibility of your wedding guests to provide it! While the dollar dance may be a custom in certain cultures, by and large it is a really bad idea, and puts your guests in a very awkward position. If they want to give you cash for a wedding gift, they will; just don't demand it publicly.
The cash bar could actually fall under the category of being a form of wedding fundraiser, and it also is in poor taste. You cannot legitimately invite someone to be a guest at your wedding and then expect them to pay for their own refreshments. When money is tight, the host should serve what they can afford graciously, not ask their guests to take over their responsibility. Cutting the guest list is the quickest and easiest way to bring down the cost of your wedding food and drinks. Another tried and true trick is to have a wedding brunch instead of a dinner, which will dramatically slash the bill for refreshments.
Of course, couples do need to find a way to pay for their weddings, and there are respectable ways to do so. The key point is that the bride and groom should never use social blackmail to get money out of their friends and relations, but find ways to raise the money themselves. Setting up an automatic savings plan is a simple way to begin saving. You could also have a yard sale, take on a part time job, or drop your cable service. Start eating at home instead of going out to dinner every weekend, and make your own coffee instead of hitting Starbucks on the way to work each day. These small lifestyle changes can add up to a lot more cash in your wedding fund. They will also help you to prioritize; when you are paying all the bills yourself, it becomes a lot easier to separate wants from needs.
Don't overlook the many ways to lower the bills of your wedding, as well as trying to raise more money for it. Investigate beautiful but low-cost sites like state parks, shop online for things like bridal jewelry and wedding decorations, and forget about the extras like custom lighting. Also look for things that you can use again, so they will not be just one day expenses, such as jewelry that goes will many things besides your bridal gown or cloth napkins on clearance that will cost less than rentals. It may require a shift in your vision of the perfect wedding, but with a bit of ingenuity, you will find that it is possible to have a lovely wedding that is within your reach, no fundraiser required!
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about weddings, style, and etiquette. Treat yourself to beautiful bridal jewelry from http://silverlandjewelry.com/ and receive free shipping on your jewelry order over $99.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=553865&ca=Marriage
Most little girls grow up dreaming of a beautiful wedding will all the trimmings. By the time you actually meet your Prince Charming, however, you have probably started to realize that a lavish wedding comes with a substantial price tag. Lately, I have been hearing about brides considering to have fundraisers to round up enough cash to plan their dream weddings. That brings us to this question: are wedding fundraisers a good idea or a bad idea?
Think, for a moment, about what most fundraisers are raising funds to finance. Schools, animal shelters, cancer research, and that sort of thing. In other words, big issues that affect large numbers of people (or animals). Although your wedding might be in the forefront of your life right now, if you are honest about it, it is probably not all that huge a deal to most of the other people in your life, besides your fiance. So, is it okay to have a fundraiser like you might for a charitable cause to raise money for your wedding? In a word, no. Sorry, brides!
Another type of wedding fundraiser is the dollar dance or wishing well, which is done at the reception itself. This is often used as a pool of cash for either the honeymoon trip or to give the newlyweds a little nest egg to start their new life together. While everyone would like a nice honeymoon and we would all like a pile of cash to put in the bank, it is not the responsibility of your wedding guests to provide it! While the dollar dance may be a custom in certain cultures, by and large it is a really bad idea, and puts your guests in a very awkward position. If they want to give you cash for a wedding gift, they will; just don't demand it publicly.
The cash bar could actually fall under the category of being a form of wedding fundraiser, and it also is in poor taste. You cannot legitimately invite someone to be a guest at your wedding and then expect them to pay for their own refreshments. When money is tight, the host should serve what they can afford graciously, not ask their guests to take over their responsibility. Cutting the guest list is the quickest and easiest way to bring down the cost of your wedding food and drinks. Another tried and true trick is to have a wedding brunch instead of a dinner, which will dramatically slash the bill for refreshments.
Of course, couples do need to find a way to pay for their weddings, and there are respectable ways to do so. The key point is that the bride and groom should never use social blackmail to get money out of their friends and relations, but find ways to raise the money themselves. Setting up an automatic savings plan is a simple way to begin saving. You could also have a yard sale, take on a part time job, or drop your cable service. Start eating at home instead of going out to dinner every weekend, and make your own coffee instead of hitting Starbucks on the way to work each day. These small lifestyle changes can add up to a lot more cash in your wedding fund. They will also help you to prioritize; when you are paying all the bills yourself, it becomes a lot easier to separate wants from needs.
Don't overlook the many ways to lower the bills of your wedding, as well as trying to raise more money for it. Investigate beautiful but low-cost sites like state parks, shop online for things like bridal jewelry and wedding decorations, and forget about the extras like custom lighting. Also look for things that you can use again, so they will not be just one day expenses, such as jewelry that goes will many things besides your bridal gown or cloth napkins on clearance that will cost less than rentals. It may require a shift in your vision of the perfect wedding, but with a bit of ingenuity, you will find that it is possible to have a lovely wedding that is within your reach, no fundraiser required!
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about weddings, style, and etiquette. Treat yourself to beautiful bridal jewelry from http://silverlandjewelry.com/ and receive free shipping on your jewelry order over $99.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=553865&ca=Marriage
Labels:
Wedding Costs
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Organising a Summer Stag Do
By Dom Evans
Summer time: sun, beer, BBQ’s and chilling with your mates. What better time of year to organise a stag do?! Summer is the most popular time of year for stag dos and it’s easy to see why - but how can you make the most of the gorgeous weather and plan that amazing stag do?
Summer Venues
It is always nice to experience another country when organising a stag do but what most people don’t realise is that are a whole range of UK venues that really glisten in the sunshine!
Take your time to research venues as most have special activities during the summer months that can truly add to your experience. UK venues really do offer something for everyone, whether it’s a cultured, historic talk or an exciting, high thrill adventure day, you will be sure to find something to whet your appetite!
Summer Activities
Loads of stag do activities lend themselves to be enjoyed in the summer so get out there and do them! Here are a few ideas to get you out in the sun:
• Surfing – Take a trip to the coast and catch some waves! Many stag do organisers can plan a weekend away for you that will revolve around taking to the water and falling off rather large pieces of wood!
• Get Back to Nature – If you go down to the woods today you’re in for a big surprise…grown men clambering around on ropes and falling into shrubbery! For some reason the sun makes us want to act like Tarzan and why not?!
• Scale Heights and Ride Bikes - Another activity praising the great outdoors! Rock climbing is great fun (as long as you aren’t afraid of heights!) and can leave you with a real sense of achievement. If you would rather keep your feet closer to the ground then you could always try mountain bike riding; if you are feeling really adventurous then you could go off road!
• Go to the Pub – You may think spending all day drinking sounds like a waste of time; or it may sound like heaven! But what would you think of spending some time at a brewery learning about how the much loved drink is made whilst tasting unlimited samples?! A history lesson for nerds and a drinking session for…well lets keep it polite!
• Shooting Fun – Aim…FIRE! Try your hand at clay shooting against the fluffy clouds and crisp blue skies – ahh lovely! Just make sure you hit the targets!
• Quad Riding – Racing vehicles with overly big wheels is always fun! Get yourself behind the steering wheel and listen to that engine roar whilst you speed around the dirk track!
Whatever you choose to do on your summer stag do, we are sure you will have an amazing time – take full advantage of the weather and organise an event that will be remembered for years to come for all the right reasons!
Remember to be sensible though – always pack your sunscreen!
About the Author: Dom Evans is a well travelled writer who is now concentrating on utilizing his experiences in advising on the best stag do destinations. He currently works at Playaway Weekends, researching and sampling world wide stag do destinations.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=551587&ca=Marriage
Summer time: sun, beer, BBQ’s and chilling with your mates. What better time of year to organise a stag do?! Summer is the most popular time of year for stag dos and it’s easy to see why - but how can you make the most of the gorgeous weather and plan that amazing stag do?
Summer Venues
It is always nice to experience another country when organising a stag do but what most people don’t realise is that are a whole range of UK venues that really glisten in the sunshine!
Take your time to research venues as most have special activities during the summer months that can truly add to your experience. UK venues really do offer something for everyone, whether it’s a cultured, historic talk or an exciting, high thrill adventure day, you will be sure to find something to whet your appetite!
Summer Activities
Loads of stag do activities lend themselves to be enjoyed in the summer so get out there and do them! Here are a few ideas to get you out in the sun:
• Surfing – Take a trip to the coast and catch some waves! Many stag do organisers can plan a weekend away for you that will revolve around taking to the water and falling off rather large pieces of wood!
• Get Back to Nature – If you go down to the woods today you’re in for a big surprise…grown men clambering around on ropes and falling into shrubbery! For some reason the sun makes us want to act like Tarzan and why not?!
• Scale Heights and Ride Bikes - Another activity praising the great outdoors! Rock climbing is great fun (as long as you aren’t afraid of heights!) and can leave you with a real sense of achievement. If you would rather keep your feet closer to the ground then you could always try mountain bike riding; if you are feeling really adventurous then you could go off road!
• Go to the Pub – You may think spending all day drinking sounds like a waste of time; or it may sound like heaven! But what would you think of spending some time at a brewery learning about how the much loved drink is made whilst tasting unlimited samples?! A history lesson for nerds and a drinking session for…well lets keep it polite!
• Shooting Fun – Aim…FIRE! Try your hand at clay shooting against the fluffy clouds and crisp blue skies – ahh lovely! Just make sure you hit the targets!
• Quad Riding – Racing vehicles with overly big wheels is always fun! Get yourself behind the steering wheel and listen to that engine roar whilst you speed around the dirk track!
Whatever you choose to do on your summer stag do, we are sure you will have an amazing time – take full advantage of the weather and organise an event that will be remembered for years to come for all the right reasons!
Remember to be sensible though – always pack your sunscreen!
About the Author: Dom Evans is a well travelled writer who is now concentrating on utilizing his experiences in advising on the best stag do destinations. He currently works at Playaway Weekends, researching and sampling world wide stag do destinations.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=551587&ca=Marriage
Labels:
Bachelor Party
Jack And Jill Wedding Showers
By Bridget Mora
The traditional bridal shower is a ladies only event. While this can be lovely, as grooms have become more involved in the entire wedding process, it makes sense that they should be included in the pre-wedding parties as well. This has given rise to the co-ed wedding shower, also known as a Jack and Jill shower. These are some tips for planning Jack and Jill wedding showers that everyone will enjoy.
A Jack and Jill shower has many things in common with a standard all-female shower. You will need invitations, food, decorations, and of course, presents. However, all of these things should be planned with a much less feminine flair than they would for a shower without the guys. Start with invitations; instead of something pink and frilly, choose a more gender neutral party invitation (it need not be specifically a bridal shower invitation, as those are likely to be very girly), such as one in green or blue instead of pink or purple. You don't want the invitation to scare off the men you invite, after all!
Next, think about the decorations for your Jack and Jill party. Opt for a more modern and streamlined design than you might for a traditional shower. Pick a theme which is equally appealing to men and women; instead of the Victorian tea party, go for the backyard barbeque or cocktail party. Skip the lace tablecloths and wedding bells in favor of linens in an elegant dupioni (for a more formal party) or a casual print (for a very relaxed party). Create chic floral arrangements in shades of green and cream, versus pink, pink, and more pink. Attending a wedding shower will be a first time event for many of the men present, and you want to make sure that they do not feel like they accidentally stumbled into a “hen party”.
Then there is the food – plan on a much heartier menu for a Jack and Jill party than a ladies only affair. Finger foods are still fine, just beef them up. A couple of cucumber sandwiches and a fruit cup are just not going to cut it when there are men at the shower! Mini pulled pork sandwiches, stuffed mushrooms, dips with veggies and pita chips, and the like will be more satisfying to bigger appetites. Of course, every bridal shower should have a cake; luckily that is one thing that everyone likes, male or female! A small cake decorated with fresh fruit or even just beautifully frosted will be perfect.
Many traditional bridal showers have games, such as making a “bridal gown” out of toilet paper or doing word scrambles with the names of kitchen tools. These games are frankly not appealing to many women, and they are certainly out of the question for a co-ed shower. A wedding party does not actually need games at all, but if you really want to include them, limit yourself to just one or two, and make them fun for everyone. The best choice is a questionnaire with questions about the bride and groom; whoever gets the most right answers wins a small prize. This is a fun game because it can spark a lot of funny answers and bring up a lot of silly old memories.
All wedding showers involve gifts, by their very nature. The guests at a Jack and Jill shower should try to pick out something that both the bride and groom will enjoy. The personal items which you sometimes see as traditional shower gifts, such as lingerie, would be completely inappropriate for a co-ed party. Barware is a particularly popular gift to bring to a co-ed shower, as are gourmet foods and other high end kitchen items.
One thing that is absolutely the same for any wedding shower is that the guest of honor must thank their host appropriately. A small gift and a heartfelt letter of thanks from the bride and groom would be lovely after the Jack and Jill shower. If the hosts are bridesmaids, remember that you should get them a separate thank you gift apart from the bridesmaid jewelry you give them to thank them for being in your wedding. While bridesmaid jewelry is a wonderfully personal gift from the bride to her attendants, the hostess gift which is a joint present from the bride and groom should be a little less personal, such as a fine bottle of wine with a personalized bottle opener or a pair of theater tickets. It is a very gracious way to show your appreciation for the Jack and Jill wedding shower.
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about weddings, etiquette, and society. Treat your attendants to beautiful bridesmaid jewelry from http://silverlandjewelry.com/ and receive free shipping on any jewelry order over $99.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=558706&ca=Marriage
The traditional bridal shower is a ladies only event. While this can be lovely, as grooms have become more involved in the entire wedding process, it makes sense that they should be included in the pre-wedding parties as well. This has given rise to the co-ed wedding shower, also known as a Jack and Jill shower. These are some tips for planning Jack and Jill wedding showers that everyone will enjoy.
A Jack and Jill shower has many things in common with a standard all-female shower. You will need invitations, food, decorations, and of course, presents. However, all of these things should be planned with a much less feminine flair than they would for a shower without the guys. Start with invitations; instead of something pink and frilly, choose a more gender neutral party invitation (it need not be specifically a bridal shower invitation, as those are likely to be very girly), such as one in green or blue instead of pink or purple. You don't want the invitation to scare off the men you invite, after all!
Next, think about the decorations for your Jack and Jill party. Opt for a more modern and streamlined design than you might for a traditional shower. Pick a theme which is equally appealing to men and women; instead of the Victorian tea party, go for the backyard barbeque or cocktail party. Skip the lace tablecloths and wedding bells in favor of linens in an elegant dupioni (for a more formal party) or a casual print (for a very relaxed party). Create chic floral arrangements in shades of green and cream, versus pink, pink, and more pink. Attending a wedding shower will be a first time event for many of the men present, and you want to make sure that they do not feel like they accidentally stumbled into a “hen party”.
Then there is the food – plan on a much heartier menu for a Jack and Jill party than a ladies only affair. Finger foods are still fine, just beef them up. A couple of cucumber sandwiches and a fruit cup are just not going to cut it when there are men at the shower! Mini pulled pork sandwiches, stuffed mushrooms, dips with veggies and pita chips, and the like will be more satisfying to bigger appetites. Of course, every bridal shower should have a cake; luckily that is one thing that everyone likes, male or female! A small cake decorated with fresh fruit or even just beautifully frosted will be perfect.
Many traditional bridal showers have games, such as making a “bridal gown” out of toilet paper or doing word scrambles with the names of kitchen tools. These games are frankly not appealing to many women, and they are certainly out of the question for a co-ed shower. A wedding party does not actually need games at all, but if you really want to include them, limit yourself to just one or two, and make them fun for everyone. The best choice is a questionnaire with questions about the bride and groom; whoever gets the most right answers wins a small prize. This is a fun game because it can spark a lot of funny answers and bring up a lot of silly old memories.
All wedding showers involve gifts, by their very nature. The guests at a Jack and Jill shower should try to pick out something that both the bride and groom will enjoy. The personal items which you sometimes see as traditional shower gifts, such as lingerie, would be completely inappropriate for a co-ed party. Barware is a particularly popular gift to bring to a co-ed shower, as are gourmet foods and other high end kitchen items.
One thing that is absolutely the same for any wedding shower is that the guest of honor must thank their host appropriately. A small gift and a heartfelt letter of thanks from the bride and groom would be lovely after the Jack and Jill shower. If the hosts are bridesmaids, remember that you should get them a separate thank you gift apart from the bridesmaid jewelry you give them to thank them for being in your wedding. While bridesmaid jewelry is a wonderfully personal gift from the bride to her attendants, the hostess gift which is a joint present from the bride and groom should be a little less personal, such as a fine bottle of wine with a personalized bottle opener or a pair of theater tickets. It is a very gracious way to show your appreciation for the Jack and Jill wedding shower.
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about weddings, etiquette, and society. Treat your attendants to beautiful bridesmaid jewelry from http://silverlandjewelry.com/ and receive free shipping on any jewelry order over $99.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=558706&ca=Marriage
Labels:
Wedding Showers
What to Wear to a Bridal Shower
By Bridget Mora
One of the most special events which precedes a wedding is the bridal shower. A lovely afternoon of gift giving, snacking, and chatting, no wedding would be complete without one. Not as formal as a wedding, but by definition a special occasion, a bridal shower attire should always be pretty. This is your guide to what to wear to a bridal shower.
If you are the bride, you should definitely plan to wear a beautiful dress for your bridal shower. When there are multiple showers on the schedule, you would be well within your rights to splurge on a new dress for each one. Showers are generally afternoon affairs, and the attire should reflect that. A sparkly cocktail dress would be over-the-top and a very low cut one would just seem inappropriate for the genteel nature of the occasion.
Your dress should reflect both the season and the location of the party. Summer bridal showers will typically be less formal than winter ones, and outdoor locations may be a bit more low-key than, say, a tea in the most elegant hotel in town. The bride can get away with something a bit dressier than what everyone else is wearing. For instance, if the bride were to wear an embroidered cotton strapless sundress to her summer bridal shower, her friends could wear pretty skirts with blouses or sweaters (t-shirts are too casual). In this scenario, the mother of the bride could wear an elegant linen shift with a matching jacket, and a few pieces of her wedding jewelry, such as a pearl earring and necklace set.
A bridal shower calls for your most feminine attire. Flowery dresses, pearls, strappy sandals with flowers or bows, all these things are wonderful for a ladies' party. If the shower is to take place in a beautiful garden, pretty hats would make a nice addition. In many circles, women don't often wear hats, so the host of the party should be sure to spread the word if garden hats are desired. It can make for a wonderful atmosphere, not to mention, the hats will make for great photos.
For an indoor bridal shower in a fancy location like a grand hotel or private club, everyone should plan to dress up a bit more. Daytime apparel is still best, just the fanciest daywear available, more along the lines of what one would wear to an elegant afternoon wedding as a guest. A beautiful silk wrap dress with high heels and a fair amount of jewelry would be a lovely style for a wedding shower in an upscale setting.
In the winter, dress for a bridal shower as you might a festive holiday open house (minus the reindeer sweater of course!). Think velvet separates, such as pencil skirts or trousers in black or jewel tones. A cashmere sweater or silk blouse will complete the look beautifully. If that all sounds a bit too fancy for your group, an alternative would be a tweed skirt in a feminine color like pink with an elegant Merino wool sweater and knee high suede boots.
Take the time to put together a very special outfit for any bridal shower to which you are invited, whether you are the bride or one of the guests. Such a special occasion deserves a fantastic outfit, and it will add to the festive feeling of the party.
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about weddings, customs, and fashion. Treat everyone in your wedding to fabulous wedding jewelry from http://silverlandjewelry.com/ and receive free shipping on your jewelry order over $99.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=553867&ca=Marriage
One of the most special events which precedes a wedding is the bridal shower. A lovely afternoon of gift giving, snacking, and chatting, no wedding would be complete without one. Not as formal as a wedding, but by definition a special occasion, a bridal shower attire should always be pretty. This is your guide to what to wear to a bridal shower.
If you are the bride, you should definitely plan to wear a beautiful dress for your bridal shower. When there are multiple showers on the schedule, you would be well within your rights to splurge on a new dress for each one. Showers are generally afternoon affairs, and the attire should reflect that. A sparkly cocktail dress would be over-the-top and a very low cut one would just seem inappropriate for the genteel nature of the occasion.
Your dress should reflect both the season and the location of the party. Summer bridal showers will typically be less formal than winter ones, and outdoor locations may be a bit more low-key than, say, a tea in the most elegant hotel in town. The bride can get away with something a bit dressier than what everyone else is wearing. For instance, if the bride were to wear an embroidered cotton strapless sundress to her summer bridal shower, her friends could wear pretty skirts with blouses or sweaters (t-shirts are too casual). In this scenario, the mother of the bride could wear an elegant linen shift with a matching jacket, and a few pieces of her wedding jewelry, such as a pearl earring and necklace set.
A bridal shower calls for your most feminine attire. Flowery dresses, pearls, strappy sandals with flowers or bows, all these things are wonderful for a ladies' party. If the shower is to take place in a beautiful garden, pretty hats would make a nice addition. In many circles, women don't often wear hats, so the host of the party should be sure to spread the word if garden hats are desired. It can make for a wonderful atmosphere, not to mention, the hats will make for great photos.
For an indoor bridal shower in a fancy location like a grand hotel or private club, everyone should plan to dress up a bit more. Daytime apparel is still best, just the fanciest daywear available, more along the lines of what one would wear to an elegant afternoon wedding as a guest. A beautiful silk wrap dress with high heels and a fair amount of jewelry would be a lovely style for a wedding shower in an upscale setting.
In the winter, dress for a bridal shower as you might a festive holiday open house (minus the reindeer sweater of course!). Think velvet separates, such as pencil skirts or trousers in black or jewel tones. A cashmere sweater or silk blouse will complete the look beautifully. If that all sounds a bit too fancy for your group, an alternative would be a tweed skirt in a feminine color like pink with an elegant Merino wool sweater and knee high suede boots.
Take the time to put together a very special outfit for any bridal shower to which you are invited, whether you are the bride or one of the guests. Such a special occasion deserves a fantastic outfit, and it will add to the festive feeling of the party.
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about weddings, customs, and fashion. Treat everyone in your wedding to fabulous wedding jewelry from http://silverlandjewelry.com/ and receive free shipping on your jewelry order over $99.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=553867&ca=Marriage
Labels:
Bridal Showers
Monday, July 5, 2010
Have a Bug-Free Summer Wedding!
By Bridget Mora
Summer is high season for outdoor weddings, but it also happens to be high season for pesky bugs. Don't let mosquitos, bees, and other flying insects ruin your wedding! Take a look at these tips on how to have a bug-free summer wedding.
Unless you have your heart set on a sentimental location, like your own backyard, it is smart to take bugs into consideration when selecting an outdoor wedding venue. After all, how much will your guests really be able to enjoy your wedding if they spend the whole time running away from bees, while dressed in their fancy wedding clothes and jewelry? Ideally, scope out the possible site a year before your wedding date, right at the same time of year. Is the area lined with bushes which are positively buzzing with bees? Do the mosquitos descend like an invading army when dusk falls? In general, areas which are very close to water, woods, and heavily scented flowers will be the most bug-filled.
Any wedding location can be improved, even if it is fairly buggy to start out. To deter bees, choose your flowers wisely, avoiding those with fragrances that draw bees. A good tip for the bride is to select a jeweled hairpiece to match her wedding jewelry, instead of a fresh flower in the hair, which is known to attract insects. If you are concerned about bees coming around the food stations and dinner tables, there are a few things you can do. First, keep food covered as much as possible, and locate trash recepticles away from where your guests will be congregating. Another great tip is something which you frequently see at restaurants with outdoor seating: set up open cups of sugar water along the perimeter to draw the bees away from where your guests will be eating. It works like a charm!
Lakes make for beautifully scenic backdrops for weddings, but they also tend to have a lot of flying insects around them, especially mosquitos. I will never forget seeing one bride's wedding pictures and wondering why she had red bumps all over her arms. It turned out they were mosquito bites! Don't let that happen to you or your guests. For very buggy areas, try renting one of those propane powered mosquito traps which has a quiet fan and lures in the bugs by releasing carbon dioxide. There are similar devices which have electrical plugs and lure the mosquitos to their death with ultraviolet lights. People swear by these devices, and if the area you are trying to clear of bugs is your own backyard, you might even want to buy a couple. Ideally, they should be set out well before the start of the wedding, so that most of the mosquitos in the area will be cleared out before your wedding guests arrive.
There are also some proven low-tech ways to help keep flying pests at bay. Set up tiki torches around the perimeter of your reception space, as the smoke helps (somewhat) to keep mosquitos away. The old standby citronella candles can also be used on tables and set out in areas where your guests will gather. Place them in attractive candleholders to make them a pretty addition to your wedding. (Keep in mind that some guests may not like the scent of citronella, so don't overdo it.) For a tented wedding, you could even have net sides that are rolled down as dusk approaches to keep your guests comfy and happy inside.
Last but not least, is personal insect repellent. Though not particularly pleasant (the scent certainly does not smell like Chanel No. 5!), when the bugs are really biting, better to use a DEET spray than get eaten alive. Insect repellent wipes are a less messy alternative, and would be nice to put in the toiletry baskets in the restrooms for guests to use. With all of your preparations made, you can rest easy knowing that no bugs are going to spoil the fun of your wedding!
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes about wedding planning, outdoor events, and entertaining. Visit us today at http://silverlandjewelry.com/ and receive free shipping on your wedding jewelry order over $99.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=549456&ca=Marriage
Summer is high season for outdoor weddings, but it also happens to be high season for pesky bugs. Don't let mosquitos, bees, and other flying insects ruin your wedding! Take a look at these tips on how to have a bug-free summer wedding.
Unless you have your heart set on a sentimental location, like your own backyard, it is smart to take bugs into consideration when selecting an outdoor wedding venue. After all, how much will your guests really be able to enjoy your wedding if they spend the whole time running away from bees, while dressed in their fancy wedding clothes and jewelry? Ideally, scope out the possible site a year before your wedding date, right at the same time of year. Is the area lined with bushes which are positively buzzing with bees? Do the mosquitos descend like an invading army when dusk falls? In general, areas which are very close to water, woods, and heavily scented flowers will be the most bug-filled.
Any wedding location can be improved, even if it is fairly buggy to start out. To deter bees, choose your flowers wisely, avoiding those with fragrances that draw bees. A good tip for the bride is to select a jeweled hairpiece to match her wedding jewelry, instead of a fresh flower in the hair, which is known to attract insects. If you are concerned about bees coming around the food stations and dinner tables, there are a few things you can do. First, keep food covered as much as possible, and locate trash recepticles away from where your guests will be congregating. Another great tip is something which you frequently see at restaurants with outdoor seating: set up open cups of sugar water along the perimeter to draw the bees away from where your guests will be eating. It works like a charm!
Lakes make for beautifully scenic backdrops for weddings, but they also tend to have a lot of flying insects around them, especially mosquitos. I will never forget seeing one bride's wedding pictures and wondering why she had red bumps all over her arms. It turned out they were mosquito bites! Don't let that happen to you or your guests. For very buggy areas, try renting one of those propane powered mosquito traps which has a quiet fan and lures in the bugs by releasing carbon dioxide. There are similar devices which have electrical plugs and lure the mosquitos to their death with ultraviolet lights. People swear by these devices, and if the area you are trying to clear of bugs is your own backyard, you might even want to buy a couple. Ideally, they should be set out well before the start of the wedding, so that most of the mosquitos in the area will be cleared out before your wedding guests arrive.
There are also some proven low-tech ways to help keep flying pests at bay. Set up tiki torches around the perimeter of your reception space, as the smoke helps (somewhat) to keep mosquitos away. The old standby citronella candles can also be used on tables and set out in areas where your guests will gather. Place them in attractive candleholders to make them a pretty addition to your wedding. (Keep in mind that some guests may not like the scent of citronella, so don't overdo it.) For a tented wedding, you could even have net sides that are rolled down as dusk approaches to keep your guests comfy and happy inside.
Last but not least, is personal insect repellent. Though not particularly pleasant (the scent certainly does not smell like Chanel No. 5!), when the bugs are really biting, better to use a DEET spray than get eaten alive. Insect repellent wipes are a less messy alternative, and would be nice to put in the toiletry baskets in the restrooms for guests to use. With all of your preparations made, you can rest easy knowing that no bugs are going to spoil the fun of your wedding!
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes about wedding planning, outdoor events, and entertaining. Visit us today at http://silverlandjewelry.com/ and receive free shipping on your wedding jewelry order over $99.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=549456&ca=Marriage
Labels:
Outdoor Weddings
Beach Wedding Hair Jewelry and Veil Ideas
By Bridget Mora
Getting ready for a beach wedding? Then you will definitely need something gorgeous to wear in your hair! These are some great ideas for beach wedding hair and jewelry and veils.
Naturally the bride will want something fabulous to adorn her hair on her wedding day. As a beach wedding tends to be more relaxed, it is best to choose a headpiece which is not overly formal. Rather than a tall tiara, for instance, try a double headband beaded with crystals and pearls. The gems will make it beautiful enough for a wedding, but the headband style will look more appropriate on the beach. Select a headband which complements your bridal jewelry set. Another great thing about a headband is that if you opt to wear your hair down, it will keep the ocean breeze from blowing your hair in your face during the ceremony.
A beach theme hair ornament can be a wonderful accessory for a wedding by the ocean. A starfish pin in your hair makes a lovely alternative to a fresh flower, and as a bonus it will not wilt in the hot sun. Small starfish clips or pins would also be fun for the bridesmaids. They would make a nice add on to the bridesmaid jewelry sets that the bride gives as gifts. Tie a pretty starfish clip to the jewelry box with an organza ribbon for a nice addition to the bridesmaid gifts that will also make the box extra special.
Pearls are a natural choice by the ocean. A cluster of pearl hairpins would be an elegant addition to a simple updo. Low buns are very chic and are un-fussy enough for the beach. They are also a classic staple to have in your jewelry box for future special occasions after the wedding. Wear your pearl hairpins with pearl bridal jewelry, such as a drop pendant or a unique keshi pearl necklace. Add some coordinating earrings, and you will be ready to walk down the aisle in style.
A veil on the beach can be a bit tricky, but any bride who wants one should definitely wear one. For a wedding outdoors, the veil should always be shorter than floor length. The last thing you need is to have your delicate veil catch on a wooden boardwalk or deck and tear. Nor do you want to have a long veil dragging behind you on the sand picking up seaweed and other beach debris from the sand! A calf length veil gives the effect of a long veil with none of the potential perils. Fingertip veils also work well, but be careful about choosing a very short veil, as it will fly around your face with the slightest breeze; in fact, the shortest veils are actually called “flyaways”.
Beading can be a great on any bridal veil, but it is especially nice for a beach wedding. The little crystals and beads will twinkle and dance in the sunlight, adding a lively touch to your wedding gown, whether it is beaded or more simple. A great hidden feature of a beaded edge veil is that the added weight of the beads will help to keep your veil anchored. As fun as those pictures of the bride with her veil flying behind her can be, it is also nice to be able to say your vows without a cloud of tulle attacking your face every time the wind stirs.
Beach weddings are always beautiful, and with the perfect accessories, you can be sure to look absolutely stunning. From headbands to pins to special veils, there is a combination of beach wedding accessories that will be perfect for any wedding and to match any bridal gown.
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about weddings, style, and jewelry. Treat your attendants to fabulous bridesmaid jewelry sets from http://silverlandjewelry.com/ and receive free shipping on any jewelry order over $99.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=558713&ca=Marriage
Getting ready for a beach wedding? Then you will definitely need something gorgeous to wear in your hair! These are some great ideas for beach wedding hair and jewelry and veils.
Naturally the bride will want something fabulous to adorn her hair on her wedding day. As a beach wedding tends to be more relaxed, it is best to choose a headpiece which is not overly formal. Rather than a tall tiara, for instance, try a double headband beaded with crystals and pearls. The gems will make it beautiful enough for a wedding, but the headband style will look more appropriate on the beach. Select a headband which complements your bridal jewelry set. Another great thing about a headband is that if you opt to wear your hair down, it will keep the ocean breeze from blowing your hair in your face during the ceremony.
A beach theme hair ornament can be a wonderful accessory for a wedding by the ocean. A starfish pin in your hair makes a lovely alternative to a fresh flower, and as a bonus it will not wilt in the hot sun. Small starfish clips or pins would also be fun for the bridesmaids. They would make a nice add on to the bridesmaid jewelry sets that the bride gives as gifts. Tie a pretty starfish clip to the jewelry box with an organza ribbon for a nice addition to the bridesmaid gifts that will also make the box extra special.
Pearls are a natural choice by the ocean. A cluster of pearl hairpins would be an elegant addition to a simple updo. Low buns are very chic and are un-fussy enough for the beach. They are also a classic staple to have in your jewelry box for future special occasions after the wedding. Wear your pearl hairpins with pearl bridal jewelry, such as a drop pendant or a unique keshi pearl necklace. Add some coordinating earrings, and you will be ready to walk down the aisle in style.
A veil on the beach can be a bit tricky, but any bride who wants one should definitely wear one. For a wedding outdoors, the veil should always be shorter than floor length. The last thing you need is to have your delicate veil catch on a wooden boardwalk or deck and tear. Nor do you want to have a long veil dragging behind you on the sand picking up seaweed and other beach debris from the sand! A calf length veil gives the effect of a long veil with none of the potential perils. Fingertip veils also work well, but be careful about choosing a very short veil, as it will fly around your face with the slightest breeze; in fact, the shortest veils are actually called “flyaways”.
Beading can be a great on any bridal veil, but it is especially nice for a beach wedding. The little crystals and beads will twinkle and dance in the sunlight, adding a lively touch to your wedding gown, whether it is beaded or more simple. A great hidden feature of a beaded edge veil is that the added weight of the beads will help to keep your veil anchored. As fun as those pictures of the bride with her veil flying behind her can be, it is also nice to be able to say your vows without a cloud of tulle attacking your face every time the wind stirs.
Beach weddings are always beautiful, and with the perfect accessories, you can be sure to look absolutely stunning. From headbands to pins to special veils, there is a combination of beach wedding accessories that will be perfect for any wedding and to match any bridal gown.
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about weddings, style, and jewelry. Treat your attendants to fabulous bridesmaid jewelry sets from http://silverlandjewelry.com/ and receive free shipping on any jewelry order over $99.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=558713&ca=Marriage
Hosting Hawaiian Weddings
By Rene Thompson
Many brides dream of a beachside ceremony in Hawaii. Some couples choose a Hawaiian-themed wedding because one or both of them is from Hawaii. Others select this them because they have fallen in love with the allure of the islands and want their wedding to feel like a tropical paradise. Though Hawaiian-themed weddings are certainly popular on the islands, you can even hold a Hawaiian wedding on a local beach, in your backyard, or even indoors. With the right accessories, any wedding can make guests feel as though they have been transported to a beautiful tropical island.
When planning a Hawaiian wedding, take your inspiration from the beaches and the luaus. For wedding decorations, look towards nature for a guide. Orchids are a very popular wedding flower, and they would be a perfect choice for couples planning a Hawaiian wedding. Many couples choose to incorporate leis, which are traditional wreaths made of fragrant flowers. For decorations, use natural woven pats, palm fronts, and tiki torches. If you want to host a tiki-themed wedding, use tiki masks or totems to decorate the tables and the ceremony area.
Nearly any color scheme can be combined with a Hawaiian theme. Colors for those holding a Hawaiian range from red, orange, and yellow shades inspired by the sunset and tropical flowers to the sandy brown, ocean blue, and deep green found in the environment of Hawaii.
Lighting is very important for setting the mood of any themed wedding. This is especially true if you are trying to create the subtle glow of a moonlit evening on a beach in Hawaii. Tiki torches are very popular for outdoor weddings, whether held on a sandy beach or in your own backyard. For indoor weddings, consider white twinkling lights.
No Hawaiian wedding would be complete without the delicious food you'd find at a luau. Pineapples and tropical fruits add a sweet touch to grilled chicken, seafood, or pork. Consider a wedding cake with coconut or pineapple to continue your tropical inspiration. If you plan to have a bar at the reception, arrange to have a tiki-hut style bar, complete with bamboo poles and a thatched roof.
Though you can put a lot of effort into decorations and food, don't neglect to carry over the Hawaiian theme into the ceremony itself. The wedding party can wear Hawaiian print shirts, white sundresses or sarongs. There are many traditional Hawaiian customs which may be incorporated into your wedding ceremony.
When planning a Hawaiian themed wedding, the goal is to create a tropical and relaxed mood, no matter where the ceremony is actually being held. Look for decorations and favors that replicate an island paradise, whether you envision it more as a wild and exotic tiki party or a relaxed beachside retreat. It's all about the details. Use plenty of decorations with natural textures, from woven grass mats to carved wooden tiki masks. The look is completed with fragrant tropical flowers placed around the ceremony and reception site. You can host a Hawaiian wedding even if you live 3,000 miles away from the islands.
About the Author: Royal Tiki's beautiful range of Tiki are hand-carved on the Hawaiian island of O'ahu. Also check our Tiki bar specials
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=551523&ca=Marriage
Many brides dream of a beachside ceremony in Hawaii. Some couples choose a Hawaiian-themed wedding because one or both of them is from Hawaii. Others select this them because they have fallen in love with the allure of the islands and want their wedding to feel like a tropical paradise. Though Hawaiian-themed weddings are certainly popular on the islands, you can even hold a Hawaiian wedding on a local beach, in your backyard, or even indoors. With the right accessories, any wedding can make guests feel as though they have been transported to a beautiful tropical island.
When planning a Hawaiian wedding, take your inspiration from the beaches and the luaus. For wedding decorations, look towards nature for a guide. Orchids are a very popular wedding flower, and they would be a perfect choice for couples planning a Hawaiian wedding. Many couples choose to incorporate leis, which are traditional wreaths made of fragrant flowers. For decorations, use natural woven pats, palm fronts, and tiki torches. If you want to host a tiki-themed wedding, use tiki masks or totems to decorate the tables and the ceremony area.
Nearly any color scheme can be combined with a Hawaiian theme. Colors for those holding a Hawaiian range from red, orange, and yellow shades inspired by the sunset and tropical flowers to the sandy brown, ocean blue, and deep green found in the environment of Hawaii.
Lighting is very important for setting the mood of any themed wedding. This is especially true if you are trying to create the subtle glow of a moonlit evening on a beach in Hawaii. Tiki torches are very popular for outdoor weddings, whether held on a sandy beach or in your own backyard. For indoor weddings, consider white twinkling lights.
No Hawaiian wedding would be complete without the delicious food you'd find at a luau. Pineapples and tropical fruits add a sweet touch to grilled chicken, seafood, or pork. Consider a wedding cake with coconut or pineapple to continue your tropical inspiration. If you plan to have a bar at the reception, arrange to have a tiki-hut style bar, complete with bamboo poles and a thatched roof.
Though you can put a lot of effort into decorations and food, don't neglect to carry over the Hawaiian theme into the ceremony itself. The wedding party can wear Hawaiian print shirts, white sundresses or sarongs. There are many traditional Hawaiian customs which may be incorporated into your wedding ceremony.
When planning a Hawaiian themed wedding, the goal is to create a tropical and relaxed mood, no matter where the ceremony is actually being held. Look for decorations and favors that replicate an island paradise, whether you envision it more as a wild and exotic tiki party or a relaxed beachside retreat. It's all about the details. Use plenty of decorations with natural textures, from woven grass mats to carved wooden tiki masks. The look is completed with fragrant tropical flowers placed around the ceremony and reception site. You can host a Hawaiian wedding even if you live 3,000 miles away from the islands.
About the Author: Royal Tiki's beautiful range of Tiki are hand-carved on the Hawaiian island of O'ahu. Also check our Tiki bar specials
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=551523&ca=Marriage
Friday, July 2, 2010
Blue and Yellow Wedding Colors
By Bridget Mora
If you love bright and cheery colors, why not design an upbeat color palette for your wedding? It is hard to beat the winning combination of blue and yellow for a palette that is timeless, works well for popular wedding months, and is easy to find. These are some wonderful ideas on how to plan your wedding around blue and yellow.
Naturally, you will want your bridesmaids to be attired in your wedding colors. When using a dual-color palette, such as blue and yellow, you have the option of choosing a bridesmaid dress that is blue, yellow, or both. Typically, blue will be the easiest color for most women to wear, whereas yellow only suits certain skin tones. So if you have a big group of 'maids, blue would be safer than yellow for their dresses. Almost any shade of blue will look soft and pretty when done in a floaty fabric like chiffon or organza.
If you are considering a two tone dress, it is best to use very soft pastels, rather than more vivid hues. A blue and yellow striped sundress would be cute for a nautical wedding, or choose a pale blue organza strapless dress with a stripe of pale yellow organza around the hemline (as opposed to by the face). Classic white pearls make for lovely bridesmaid jewelry when the dress is two colors. Another option is to give your attendants bracelets – one in blue crystals and one in yellow crystals – as their bridesmaid jewelry gifts.
Then it is all about the flowers! Blue flowers are very sought after, but somewhat limited in availability. The good news is that the blossoms which do come in shades of blue are among the most gorgeous. There are blue hydrangeas, hyacinth, and delphiniums. Virtually every flower under the sun comes in yellow, from classic roses to springy mini-daffodils to ruffly sweet peas. And let's not forget yellow tulips, orchids, and even flowering branches. Work with your florist to decide if it would look best to make your centerpieces and bouquets predominantly one color with an accent, or if you prefer the more vibrant look of arrangements which have an equal mix of blue and yellow. A great idea for bridesmaids is to give each a bouquet of a single variety of flower; some girls can carry yellow bouquets and others blue ones.
Your wedding colors should be seen throughout your venue as well. If you have chosen to go with particularly vibrant centerpieces, then it would be best to keep the linens and other decorations very soft so that they do not compete. Pale pastel blues and yellows, perhaps with a bit of cream or white, are lovely when the flowers are very colorful and bright. On the other hand, if you have opted for centerpieces which are primarily made from one of your signature hues, you can get a little bolder with the tablecloths. A yellow and blue French Provencal print on cotton linens would be darling for an outdoor wedding topped with masses of yellow tulips. Solid blue napkins will tie the whole look together.
Certainly, your wedding cake should also feature your color palette. A cream colored buttercream frosting decorated with sugar flowers in blue and yellow would be absolutely gorgeous for any wedding. If your style is a bit more simple, a yellow fondant cake with crisp blue stripes around the base of each tier would be elegant. Top it with a single oversized sugar flower to keep the effect streamlined and chic. It will be the perfect addition to your blue and yellow wedding.
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about weddings, design, and etiquette. Let the friendly staff at http://silverlandjewelry.com/ help you select the perfect bridesmaid jewelry and receive free shipping on any jewelry order over $99.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=553864&ca=Marriage
If you love bright and cheery colors, why not design an upbeat color palette for your wedding? It is hard to beat the winning combination of blue and yellow for a palette that is timeless, works well for popular wedding months, and is easy to find. These are some wonderful ideas on how to plan your wedding around blue and yellow.
Naturally, you will want your bridesmaids to be attired in your wedding colors. When using a dual-color palette, such as blue and yellow, you have the option of choosing a bridesmaid dress that is blue, yellow, or both. Typically, blue will be the easiest color for most women to wear, whereas yellow only suits certain skin tones. So if you have a big group of 'maids, blue would be safer than yellow for their dresses. Almost any shade of blue will look soft and pretty when done in a floaty fabric like chiffon or organza.
If you are considering a two tone dress, it is best to use very soft pastels, rather than more vivid hues. A blue and yellow striped sundress would be cute for a nautical wedding, or choose a pale blue organza strapless dress with a stripe of pale yellow organza around the hemline (as opposed to by the face). Classic white pearls make for lovely bridesmaid jewelry when the dress is two colors. Another option is to give your attendants bracelets – one in blue crystals and one in yellow crystals – as their bridesmaid jewelry gifts.
Then it is all about the flowers! Blue flowers are very sought after, but somewhat limited in availability. The good news is that the blossoms which do come in shades of blue are among the most gorgeous. There are blue hydrangeas, hyacinth, and delphiniums. Virtually every flower under the sun comes in yellow, from classic roses to springy mini-daffodils to ruffly sweet peas. And let's not forget yellow tulips, orchids, and even flowering branches. Work with your florist to decide if it would look best to make your centerpieces and bouquets predominantly one color with an accent, or if you prefer the more vibrant look of arrangements which have an equal mix of blue and yellow. A great idea for bridesmaids is to give each a bouquet of a single variety of flower; some girls can carry yellow bouquets and others blue ones.
Your wedding colors should be seen throughout your venue as well. If you have chosen to go with particularly vibrant centerpieces, then it would be best to keep the linens and other decorations very soft so that they do not compete. Pale pastel blues and yellows, perhaps with a bit of cream or white, are lovely when the flowers are very colorful and bright. On the other hand, if you have opted for centerpieces which are primarily made from one of your signature hues, you can get a little bolder with the tablecloths. A yellow and blue French Provencal print on cotton linens would be darling for an outdoor wedding topped with masses of yellow tulips. Solid blue napkins will tie the whole look together.
Certainly, your wedding cake should also feature your color palette. A cream colored buttercream frosting decorated with sugar flowers in blue and yellow would be absolutely gorgeous for any wedding. If your style is a bit more simple, a yellow fondant cake with crisp blue stripes around the base of each tier would be elegant. Top it with a single oversized sugar flower to keep the effect streamlined and chic. It will be the perfect addition to your blue and yellow wedding.
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about weddings, design, and etiquette. Let the friendly staff at http://silverlandjewelry.com/ help you select the perfect bridesmaid jewelry and receive free shipping on any jewelry order over $99.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=553864&ca=Marriage
Labels:
Wedding Colors
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Wedding Cakes Inspired By Nature
By Bridget Mora
One of the most special parts of any wedding reception is the cake. Always a showpiece, your cake is the perfect opportunity to express something about yourself or your wedding theme. What could be more lovely for a cake than decorations which mimic the beauty of the great outdoors? These are some wonderful ideas for gorgeous wedding cakes inspired by nature.
Flowers are one of the most traditional decorations for a wedding cake, and they will never go out of style. There are almost as many ways to use flowers as there are types of blossoms! If you prefer a “manicured” style of garden, opt for very neat and symmetrical flower decorations on your cake. One beautiful look is to have a each layer of the cake separated with the space between filled with fresh blossoms such as blue hydrangeas. It is a very beautiful effect and works well with both fondant and buttercream frosting.
Cascades of flowers, either fresh or sugar, are gorgeous when you want to create a more natural design for your wedding cake. The blossoms can be dainty and simple, such as pink rosebuds, or dramatic and elegant, as in handcrafted sugar orchids. Very colorful blossoms are a fantastic way to bring some bright color into your wedding reception in a way that is “safe”. Think multi-colored cascades of pinks, purples, and fuchsias or a sophisticated palette of greens and browns. This is a wonderful way to brighten up your reception while getting your inspiration from nature.
Butterflies are a gorgeous idea for a wedding cake decoration. Their fluttery grace and inherent beauty make them the ideal accent for a bridal cake. You can opt for an understated design with a few yellow butterflies perched daintily on each tier, or go wild with an over-the-top flurry of butterflies in every hue of the rainbow covering the cake. Take your color palette from the rest of your wedding, everything from the flowers to the tablecloths to special handmade wedding jewelry can inform the hues you choose for your butterfly cake. This design works equally well for a wedding with a butterfly theme or one with a special color palette but no particular signature motif.
Forests and trees can also be a wonderful place to get inspired for your wedding cake. Deeper colors in a natural palette work best. This is a good motif for an earthy wedding where the bride wears a non-traditional gown and unique handmade wedding jewelry. A deep rich chocolate cake dragged with a utensil to create a “tree bark” effect would be marvelous for a woodland reception. You can decorate it with fresh flowers in deep colors like purple, or whimsical decorations such as marzipan mushrooms and even tiny fairies. A different approach to a forest inspired cake would be to have the baker handpaint a graceful tree growing up the tiers of the cake. This is an elegant take on the woodsy theme.
There are many more possibilities for a nature inspired wedding cake. You could recreate the nautical beauty of pearlescent seashells for a beach wedding. Paint the cake to resemble a gentle meadow filled with wildflowers or have the frosting swirled to look like ocean waves. Whatever it is in nature that most fills you with joy, use that as your starting point to create a very special wedding cake that you will absolutely adore.
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about weddings, style, and etiquette. At http://silverlandjewelry.com/,we offer an exquisite collection of handmade wedding jewelry for everyone in the bridal party. All jewelry orders over $99 receive free shipping, so visit today!
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=558703&ca=Marriage
One of the most special parts of any wedding reception is the cake. Always a showpiece, your cake is the perfect opportunity to express something about yourself or your wedding theme. What could be more lovely for a cake than decorations which mimic the beauty of the great outdoors? These are some wonderful ideas for gorgeous wedding cakes inspired by nature.
Flowers are one of the most traditional decorations for a wedding cake, and they will never go out of style. There are almost as many ways to use flowers as there are types of blossoms! If you prefer a “manicured” style of garden, opt for very neat and symmetrical flower decorations on your cake. One beautiful look is to have a each layer of the cake separated with the space between filled with fresh blossoms such as blue hydrangeas. It is a very beautiful effect and works well with both fondant and buttercream frosting.
Cascades of flowers, either fresh or sugar, are gorgeous when you want to create a more natural design for your wedding cake. The blossoms can be dainty and simple, such as pink rosebuds, or dramatic and elegant, as in handcrafted sugar orchids. Very colorful blossoms are a fantastic way to bring some bright color into your wedding reception in a way that is “safe”. Think multi-colored cascades of pinks, purples, and fuchsias or a sophisticated palette of greens and browns. This is a wonderful way to brighten up your reception while getting your inspiration from nature.
Butterflies are a gorgeous idea for a wedding cake decoration. Their fluttery grace and inherent beauty make them the ideal accent for a bridal cake. You can opt for an understated design with a few yellow butterflies perched daintily on each tier, or go wild with an over-the-top flurry of butterflies in every hue of the rainbow covering the cake. Take your color palette from the rest of your wedding, everything from the flowers to the tablecloths to special handmade wedding jewelry can inform the hues you choose for your butterfly cake. This design works equally well for a wedding with a butterfly theme or one with a special color palette but no particular signature motif.
Forests and trees can also be a wonderful place to get inspired for your wedding cake. Deeper colors in a natural palette work best. This is a good motif for an earthy wedding where the bride wears a non-traditional gown and unique handmade wedding jewelry. A deep rich chocolate cake dragged with a utensil to create a “tree bark” effect would be marvelous for a woodland reception. You can decorate it with fresh flowers in deep colors like purple, or whimsical decorations such as marzipan mushrooms and even tiny fairies. A different approach to a forest inspired cake would be to have the baker handpaint a graceful tree growing up the tiers of the cake. This is an elegant take on the woodsy theme.
There are many more possibilities for a nature inspired wedding cake. You could recreate the nautical beauty of pearlescent seashells for a beach wedding. Paint the cake to resemble a gentle meadow filled with wildflowers or have the frosting swirled to look like ocean waves. Whatever it is in nature that most fills you with joy, use that as your starting point to create a very special wedding cake that you will absolutely adore.
About the Author: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about weddings, style, and etiquette. At http://silverlandjewelry.com/,we offer an exquisite collection of handmade wedding jewelry for everyone in the bridal party. All jewelry orders over $99 receive free shipping, so visit today!
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=558703&ca=Marriage
Labels:
Wedding Cakes
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The privacy of our visitors to WeddingDayLove.Blogspot.com is important to us.
At WeddingDayLove.Blogspot.com, we recognize that privacy of your personal information is important. Here is information on what types of personal information we receive and collect when you use and visit WeddingDayLove.Blogspot.com, and how we safeguard your information. We never sell your personal information to third parties.
Log Files
As with most other websites, we collect and use the data contained in log files. The information in the log files include your IP (internet protocol) address, your ISP (internet service provider, such as AOL or Shaw Cable), the browser you used to visit our site (such as Internet Explorer or Firefox), the time you visited our site and which pages you visited throughout our site.
Cookies and Web Beacons
We do use cookies to store information, such as your personal preferences when you visit our site. This could include only showing you a popup once in your visit, or the ability to login to some of our features, such as forums.
We also use third party advertisements on WeddingDayLove.Blogspot.com to support our site. Some of these advertisers may use technology such as cookies and web beacons when they advertise on our site, which will also send these advertisers (such as Google through the Google AdSense program) information including your IP address, your ISP , the browser you used to visit our site, and in some cases, whether you have Flash installed. This is generally used for geotargeting purposes (showing New York real estate ads to someone in New York, for example) or showing certain ads based on specific sites visited (such as showing cooking ads to someone who frequents cooking sites).
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