Show Your Love and Appreciation with Elegant Wedding Favors
February 7, 2010 By Leave a Comment
If you were living in the16th to 18th Century Europe, you can only give out wedding favors if you belong to the upper class or nobility. The first wedding favors were candies and other confections, and sugar was an expensive commodity back then. These were usually placed in boxes (called bonbonnieres) made of precious metals and gemstones. Each box contained five sweets to stand for the gifts of happiness, health, fertility, longevity and wealth. At that time, newlyweds believed that by giving these small tokens, they are imparting good luck to their guests.
Favors have evolved from Jordan almonds to almost everything else, depending on the couple’s preferences and their guests’ personalities. Buy them or make them yourself; either way, favors should have a touch of elegance and tastefulness in deference to their distinguished origin.
Trimmings
These include ornamental pieces that your guests could use to decorate their homes. They can be personalized to coordinate with your wedding theme or to suit your guests’ tastes. Refrigerator magnets, frosted glass shades and crystal decorations in various shapes (umbrellas, dolphins, globe, cross, heart, ring, and many others) and sizes are some examples.
Travel accompaniments
A great way to show your thoughtfulness is to give your guests something that they can use when traveling. Going to different places is something that most people count as a happy thought so giving your friends luggage tags and travel candles is a way to remind them that they should go on a trip for that much-deserved break.
Dinner table add-ons
Functional favors are the best kind because your guests will remember and appreciate you every time they use what you gave them. Some of the most common favors are those that can be used during meals. Personalize coasters and place card holders with your guests’ photos and pick out wine pourer and stopper sets, bottle openers, and toasting glasses that reflect your wedding motif. Choose designs that are simple yet stylish.
Candles and Soaps
Candles and soaps are in a category of their own because they can both be useful and decorative. Many use candle wedding favors as ornaments and some use soaps to keep their cupboards and dressers fragrant. They come in different forms and designs so it’s easy to pick out something that will be perfect for your individual guests.
More Options
Edible favors like brownie pops, mini cakes and cookies have also gained popularity but since your guests will probably eat them, they might be left with nothing but memories and plastic wraps. Giveaways like hand fans, mini photo albums, compacts, and favor boxes are great because your guests will find them useful as well as decorative since they usually come in exquisite designs
Many books and online sources cite DIY instructions to those who want to either add a personal touch to the favors or save on the cost of buying ready-made ones. There is no rule on whether you should buy or make your own favors but you have to remember that favors are meant to show your appreciation to your guests. Therefore, make sure that you’re going to give them keepsakes that will show just how thankful you are.
How to Use Candle Favors Creatively on Your Wedding Reception Tables
January 20, 2010 By Leave a Comment
Apple of My Eye Mini-Candle Wedding Favors
Weddings are not just about big things like the wedding venue, bridal gown, or reception program. These are not only about picking your entourage or about choosing flower decorations for the church and reception area. Even the smallest details like the candle wedding favors are an important factor that would contribute to the success of the event. And because times are quite hard these days, it would be a good idea if the bride and groom can find creative ways on how to use these keepsakes on reception tables in such a way that you would be able to maximize your wedding budget. Here are some ideas on how to do that.
Use Candle Favors as the Table Centerpiece
Candle favors can be incorporated into floral arrangements to make a stunning table centerpiece. As you would notice, candles can make any flower bloom glow and look livelier. You can also arrange the candle favors into a tiered stand, a smaller version of the one used for wedding cupcakes.
Another idea would be to have candles placed on crystal tea light holders floating on a clear vase with a wide opening. Sprinkle in some embellishments such as flower petals, faux gems, pearls, and glitters. It would also be nice to have a mini potted plant surrounded with botanical garden votive candle holders. Just make sure that the guests are informed that the candle decorations used on the reception table are wedding favors so each can take one home.
Garden Glass Gel Candle Wedding Favors
Light up the Table with the Candle Favors
If you are going to hold the reception at night, you would need light sources for the tables. The candle favors can serve this purpose. As mentioned earlier, you can arrange the candles in such a way that they can be the focal point of the wedding table decoration. However, for this purpose, you should also remember to light up the candle favors to provide glow for the tables. Miniature lanterns with hangers are also great for this purpose of lighting up the table and being a wedding favor.
Go for Candle Favors that can double as Table Place Cards
Candles placed in clear vases can be both a souvenir and a table place card. How is that possible? You can have mod “blox” clings with personalized text adhered onto the vases not only to add a modern look to the table but also to give people information regarding guests’ names and corresponding table numbers. The good thing about cling is that it leaves no residue and can adhere to almost any type of glossy smooth surface.
Candles are very beautiful tokens of appreciation that can make your wedding day special and memorable. They give a warm inviting glow, set a romantic mood, and provide an elegant atmosphere to the occasion. But aside from their sheer beauty, they are also very flexible and can be used for a wide variety of things aside from simply being favors. They can be used as sophisticated table centerpieces, bright light source, and efficient table place cards.
Celebrate the Bride and Groom With These Gorgeous Toasting Flutes
December 23, 2009 By Leave a Comment
Wedding toasting flutes celebrate the special moment when the best man and other friends and family members toast the bride and groom. Everyone waits for this moment of honor during the wedding reception. Using themed wedding toasting flutes makes this romantic ceremony even more memorable.
Customized toasting glasses are a thoughtful bridal shower gift. Find out the wedding color and style to find the perfect flutes. Couples can choose their own unique ones too for their once-in-a-lifetime toast. After the wedding reception, bring them home to display on a shelf or china cabinet in your new marital home. You can both use the wedding toasting flutes every year to celebrate your anniversary.
Eye-catching glasses set the happy couple apart from everyone else during their toast. Whether you decide to toast with champagne, wine, sparkling water or grape juice, the moment is more magical with specialized ones. Lusterware champagne flutes are simply perfect, etched with the word “Bride” and “Groom” with attractive twisted crystal handles that match any type of wedding décor.
If you prefer simple, streamlined designs, you will appreciate the classic beauty of refined etched flutes with gentle etching. For a more dramatic look, refined elegance champagne flutes with a woven etched design add a slightly contemporary flair to your wedding toast.
Wedding toasting flutes may also be chosen to match the flowers used at your bid day. Popular flowers chosen for bridal bouquets, centerpieces and floral arrangements at weddings including roses and calla lilies. Choose unique toasting flutes embellished with beautiful matching blossoms for a professional, flowery feel throughout your wedding. If you love red roses, the flower of love in romantic red toasting set will become a treasured keepsake long after the wedding reception is over. For the couple who prefers traditional calla lilies, the bridal beauty calla lily toasting set is a lovely choice.
Many couples are choosing a seasonal wedding theme. In the spring, a garden wedding theme with butterflies or flowers is a popular choice. During the summer, many couples have a beach wedding theme. The autumn is a breathtaking season with colorful fall leaves creating a breathtaking backdrop for your nuptials. Silvery snowflakes create magical moments during your winter wedding. A sculptural white tiger lilies toasting set is an eye-catching addition to your spring or summer head table. An autumn splendor toasting set captures the essence of fall with a unique lacy oak leaf preserved in copper. Your winter wedding sparkles even more with a winter wonder toasting set featuring snowflakes.
During the wedding toast, everyone celebrates the union of the happy couple by toasting to a prosperous future together. The joining of two people together as one through matrimony is perfectly expressed by toasting flutes with interlocking stems. Silver plated interlocking heart stems with glass flutes combine the beauty of silver and glass with a heart joining them together. Classic styling interlocking heart stem toasting goblets are a traditional way to express your desire to stay together forever.
Add color and texture to them. A chocolate and strawberry cream set bring the flavor of chocolate to your head table. Even if you don’t serve strawberries and chocolate at your wedding reception, you can include these romantic treats by using a chocolate and strawberry cream toasting set. The purity of white is always associated with weddings. Use a pure elegance in wedding white set to capture the first time pleasure of your nuptials. The bridal tapestry set with tailored chiffon bows and sparkling crystal accents brings texture and glamor to your ceremony.
A footed pilsner glass has a unique shape your guests are sure to admire during your wedding toasting ceremony. These unusual pilsner glasses can be specially monogrammed with your initials, wedding date or anyway you choose to personalize them. Personalized footed pilsner glasses look fabulous at your wedding reception and make wonderful keepsakes of this special toast.
From simple to themed to personalized, wedding toasting flutes express your preferences as a couple during your big moment and look fantastic in all your wedding photos.
Bridal Hairstyles for 2010
November 18, 2009 By Leave a Comment
Your wedding attire is an all important aspect of your wedding planning. It takes months of gazing at photos and reading articles to hours spent trying on dresses before you make that all important decision.
Your bridal hair style is just as important as your wedding dress and deserves lots of attention and care as well. After all, the hair tops off the dress and really completes the look.
When looking for the right hairstyle for your wedding day, take a moment to consider the few tried and true standards that make bridal hair a classic part of the bride’s appearance.
wedding-flowers-and-reception-ideas.com
For example:
- The bun – a simple construction of the hair pulled back neatly without any loose hair in the face or around the neck.
- The up do – an updated version of the bun, the up do adds more drama and height to the original bun created more curls and a bigger look all around.
- The messy up do – a modern take on both the bun and the up do, the messy counterpart allows for loose strands to break away from the already loose up do, creating a more natural, relaxed and sexier look.
- The French twist – a sleek and polished pulled back look with the hair arranged in a vertical or horizontal twist along the back of the head or on side extending back from the ears.
- The chignon – the French twist’s cousin emerges with the hair pulled tightly back but arranged in a series of knots at the nape of the neck
- The half up do – this is a loose, easy to wear look where only the front portion of the hair is pulled back and arranged at the top of the head. The back of the hair falls loosely.
These are a few of the more classic examples of what stylists use as their launch pad for creating the right look for their individual clients. You can accessorize or rearrange these styles to come up with something unique to you. It is your wedding; so, play a little and make it fun from the get go….starting with you.
Wedding Planning Mentoring Program by TheBridalCoach.ca – PR Press Release
November 6, 2009 By Leave a Comment
Canadian brides, for the first time in internet history, can do all of their wedding planning online with certified wedding planners guiding their every step. No longer do modern brides have to search around outdated websites for out-of-date wedding information. The first wedding planning membership site in North America, TheBridalCoach.ca opens its door on November 10th, 2009, combining cutting edge technology with experience and expertise of certified wedding planners.
(PRWEB) November 5, 2009 — The old paradigm is still alive and well on the internet. Bride’s are going online to search for information to help them plan their wedding. What they find is outdated wedding planning checklists, vague promises of wedding solution ebooks, online wedding magazines full of beautiful wedding gown pictures, forums where they can get answers from other brides, and funny YouTube entrance dance wedding videos. But none of this gets them any closer to planning their wedding—mostly it gets them more confused and plants the seeds for bridezillas to emerge.
Wedding Planning Membership Site
 Angela Fiebelkorn states that the membership site offers a unique combination of cutting edge technology and years of wedding planning expertise.  |
TheBridalCoach.ca is opening its door as a response to this disfunctionality in the online wedding market. It is the first and only wedding planning membership site in North America. Their stated mission is to provide the modern bride and groom one place on the internet to find everything they need to plan their wedding the right way, in a timely manner, with the least effort and from the comfort of their home. This entrepreneurial group of wedding planners is launching its membership site on November 10, 2009, just at the beginning of the wedding planning season for most brides and grooms.
“The launch is a massive internet marketing event,” says Angela Fiebelkorn, wedding planner and CEO of www.TheBridalCoach.ca. “This membership site offers a unique combination of cutting edge technology and years of wedding planning experience and expertise.”
She further states that “a team of certified wedding planners share their collective wisdom in countless short videos that tell the bride and groom what they need to know each step of the way. The membership site has easy to follow checklists so the bride can just get things done. Additionally, the bride and groom are assisted by professional wedding planners and coaches in the members’ forum and through the weekly coaching calls. They can access these planners at any time for a prompt answer, and all this from the comfort of their home—and, the cost is a fraction of the cost of hiring a wedding planner.”
Read full Press Release here: Wedding Planning Membership Site, TheBridalCoach.ca, Changes the Landscape of the Online Wedding Industry
Red Wedding Dresses Make Brides Even More Beautiful
October 19, 2009 By 1 Comment
Red Wedding Dresses
Gone were the days when the only acceptable color for wedding gowns was white (and any shade close to it). Gone were the days when wearing other colors would mean breaking the law. Gone were the days when a red wedding gown was considered taboo.
More and more brides are choosing red wedding gowns for a number of different reasons. Some dare to defy the wedding norms. Some are bored with the usual white color. Some desire to be unique and stand out. Some want to look stunning with this bold color. Others simply intend to follow the latest trend.
Whatever your reason is for wearing this gown, there are several things you have to know about it before you buy one. Here are some of the things you must know about red wedding gowns.
Symbolism of Red
Red is the symbol of color, so it can be the perfect color for wedding gowns. Aside from that, it also symbolizes passion, romance and fiery emotions. If you want to make your wedding symbolic and meaningful, wearing a red wedding gown may be the perfect option for you.
Picture: Photobucket
The two basic options you have for red wedding gowns is a solid red wedding gown and a white wedding gown with a touch of red that may come in the form of a sash, lace, or embroidery. As for the gown’s style, you can go for strapless, tube, mini sleeves, long sleeves, sweetheart cut, empress, turtleneck and many others. Before you decide on a certain style, consider your personal taste and personality. Choose something that would evoke your character and fashion sense.
Confidence: Most Important Accessory for a Red Gown
This is a very important reminder: do not wear a red wedding gown unless you have the guts and confidence to carry it. If you are the meek type, who shies away at people’s hint of dislike, this is not the dress for you. But if you are the daring type who can wear the gown with confidence, go for it! Just remember that you cannot please everybody, especially those people who have conservative views about wedding traditions. Keep in mind that this is your moment and that you should not really care what other people think.
Picture: Photobucket
Red Gown: Is it just a Fad?
Another thing you have to consider is the fact that a red wedding gown may just be a current trend. Ask yourself how you would feel looking at your wedding photos many years from now. Do you think you would be proud enough to say that you were among the first who started this trend? Or do you feel you may end up saying that you made a terrible mistake when you followed a crazy trend that has already long been buried into oblivion?
Many wedding experts say that the red wedding gown is here to stay. Just like the strapless wedding gown that was unacceptable (even unthinkable) some decades ago, red may become a staple in wedding gowns. But of course, it is still up to you to make the final decision.
Red wedding gowns have been making noises in the wedding fashion industry. If you want to make a fashion statement, if you want to look gorgeous and stunning, if you want to stand out and be unique, consider wearing this vibrant and bold color that would surely turn heads as you make that memorable walk down the aisle.
What Can Happen If You Don’t Have a Wedding Hat
October 9, 2009 By Leave a Comment
Wedding Hats
The veil is not only your option when it comes to bridal headwear. You can also choose to don a majestic tiara, a flower headdress, or an intricate headband. For outdoor weddings, wearing a wedding hat has not only become a trend but more of a necessity.
If you are going to have an outdoor wedding whether it is at the beach, at the park, or by the riverside, wearing a wedding hat will surely add a touch of class to your look. Moreover, this can also prevent uneventful circumstances that you would not want to happen on your wedding day.
So what would happen if you do not wear a wedding hat for your outdoor wedding day? There are two possible unfortunate outcomes for not wearing a hat on an outdoor wedding. One would be sunburn and another would be your hair gone wild.
The Stinging Sunburn
If you are having a summer wedding, wearing a hat can give you optimal protection against the scorching heat of the sun. If you do not want to end up with stinging sunburn on your face, make sure you wear a wedding hat with a brim wide enough to protect your face. Moreover, do not forget to wear sunscreen that has a strong SPF for effective sun shielding.
Bad Hair Day
Since the wedding is held outdoors, you can expect that it may be a little windy. Unless you would restrain your hair into a tight classic bun, your next best option to avoid a bad hair day would be to wear a hat. This way, you do not have to worry about your hair going frizzy because of the windy conditions. A hat would also be an efficient way to protect your face against dust and debris.
How to Choose a Wedding Hat
Now that you are convinced that a wedding hat is necessary for your outdoor wedding, you need to start shopping for one. Here are some tips on how to help you find the perfect wedding hat for this glorious occasion:
- Search online. The Internet is overflowing with online bridal shops that sell different kinds of wedding hats.
- Choose a wide brimmed hat that will be able to give you maximum protection against the sun.
- Do not overspend. Set a budget and make sure you stick to it. You can find a beautiful wedding hat without having to spend an enormous fortune.
- Pick a wedding hat that complements the wedding theme. For example, if you are going to have a classic 60’s themed wedding, a wedding with a net veil may be a nice choice.
- Make sure the hat fits. If the hat keeps falling off your head or if it is too tight on you, you may be better off not wearing it.
- Do not choose a hat that would cover your entire face. Remember, guests would want to catch a glimpse of the bride so do not deprive them off that by wearing a larger than life hat that masks your face.
An outdoor wedding is a fabulous event but elements like heat and wind can pose as a challenge for most brides. Overcome these difficulties by wearing a wonderful wedding hat to complete your bridal look.
Why Couples Look for Wedding Sets when Shopping
October 6, 2009 By Leave a Comment
Wedding sets, which also come in the names of wedding ring sets and bridal sets, are sets of rings that include the engagement ring and matching wedding bands. Jewelers have long been selling these kinds of jewelry but it has only been in the recent years that wedding sets have become very popular.
One probable reason for their popularity is the fact that wedding sets are now available in a wider variety of styles and designs. Before, couples have limited options on wedding sets and most of them would prefer to buy individual engagement rings and wedding bands.
Today, the range of styles and designs on wedding sets has increased significantly. Moreover, there are many advantages to buying wedding ring sets. Here are the top reasons why couples prefer wedding sets:
1. This makes it easy to achieve a unified look.
Since you are going to buy an engagement and wedding ring that match in designs, you do not have to worry about things like slight difference in color shades or finishing. You can be guaranteed that the rings will look exactly same. This would be to your advantage if you and your spouse-to-be want to have matching wedding bands.
2. This can save you shopping time.
Shopping for wedding rings can be a long tedious process. It would definitely take you a lot more time if you have to purchase single rings. Buying a wedding set can save you so much time, which you can use in other more important aspects of the wedding planning. As they say, time is gold and the amount of time you save on shopping for wedding sets can truly be priceless.
3. This can save you money.
Time is not the only thing a couple can save when buying a wedding set. They would also be able to save money. This is because wedding sets usually come at a lower price than when you buy rings separately. Jewelers give discount on the prices, after all, you are buying two or more rings at once.
4. You can enjoy unique and exquisite designs.
Many bridal sets are now made with unique designs and styles to cater to couples who are looking for beyond the usual types of jewelry. Unless you have single bands customized for an extra cost, it would be quite difficult to find single rings that exhibit unique designs and styles.
5. Cleaning and insurance are less complicated.
Since you would be buying the rings from the same jeweler, processing the insurance and having the jewelry cleaned will be an easier task.
6. You can enjoy great incentives.
Many jewelers offer excellent rewards and perks for buying wedding sets. You will be able to enjoy discount on their other items or get freebies like other types of jewelry.
Of course, buying single rings also have its own advantages. At the end of the day, it is up to you to make a decision on how you are going to purchase the wedding bands. Just weigh the pros and cons carefully so that it would be easier for you to make an informed choice.
Southern Wedding of the Week: Erin + Patrick, Part III
October 2, 2009 By Leave a Comment
RSS news source: swsmag.net/blog
Now would be the perfect time to tip our hats to the Sea Island wedding planner extraordinaire, Melissa Ippensen. First up on the SW marvel list? Flowers, flowers, flowers! The long-stemmed white and green arrangements of tulips, hydrangeas, and calla lillies at Erin + Patrick’s swanky reception in the Cloister Grand Ballroom are over-the-top amazing and the delicate ring of ivory garden roses between the layers of the Sea Island pastry chefs’ five-tiered confection an elegant touch. While this Georgian affair certainly was a masterpiece, the seafood spread is a work of art in itself. Considering the newlyweds’ romantic exit in a classic car surrounded by sprays of fireworks was Erin + Patrick’s favorite part of the night, it only seems appropriate that we take a moment to again marvel at Laura Negri Chiders’ talented work behind the camera. Lara and Emily are hot-footing it to Atlanta as we speak to put on a wedding of their own. Wish them luck!
Our favorite details of the wedding were: Our entrance and exit were two of our favorite details. The Sea Island signature bagpiper escorted us into the ballroom and onto the dance floor for our first dance, “You Send Me” by Sam Cooke. At the conclusion of the reception, the horn section of our band, Bobby and the Aristocats, paraded us out of the ballroom to the music of jazz song “Satin Doll.”
Were there any wedding traditions or new ideas you included in the wedding? One of my best girlfriends from home purchased a beautiful Belgium lace handkerchief while living in Europe. Her hope was that the five best friends would each carry it on our wedding day with our new initials monogrammed on the handkerchief in the order that we married. The girls presented it to me during the wedding week, and I carried it around my bouquet. Later, we gifted our guests with old-fashioned handkerchiefs that my mother and I had collected throughout the year. The handkerchiefs were monogrammed with our wedding date and venue as a keepsake for our guests who had traveled to the island to celebrate with us.
What was your most memorable moment about your wedding day? Walking in to the kitchen at 4 a.m. because I could not sleep and finding my father in the kitchen because he couldn’t sleep either! It was a sweet moment that I will forever cherish.
What’s next for you as a couple? What are you looking forward to in the future? Appreciating the many blessings, opportunities, love and support surrounding us and living our lives honoring God, our vows and being a blessing to others.
Wow! What a wedding! Congratulations, Erin + Patrick.
RSS news source: http://www.swsmag.net/blog/2009/10/2/southern-wedding-of-the-week-erin-patrick-part-iii.html
Southern Wedding of the Week: Erin + Patrick, Part II
October 2, 2009 By Leave a Comment
RSS news source: swsmag.net/blog
Fellow UGA alums Erin + Patrick said their I-Do’s in the quaint Wesley United Methodist Church and, boy, do I love the ceremony pics from Laura Negri Photography! The bride’s dramatic one-shoulder Romona Keveza gown was timeless and sophisticated while her bridesmaids’ fun, flowy Tibi dresses added a subtle pop of citrus color and flair. Erin’s hand-tied bouquet of white garden roses and lilies of the valley from the Sea Island florist, Rose Sinclair, is ultra-elegant (and one of my very favorite arrangements) but check out those sleek modern arrangements of calla lilies and hydrangeas! And yes, brides, the couple’s ring bearer is carrying a seashell ring bowl of lush green moss. Totally organic and oh-so original. While Erin + Patrick’s Sea Island ceremony is picture-perfect and sweetly Southern, I think you’ll be blown away by their glitzy reception.
What was your favorite design element of your big day? Our favorite design elements were the flowers and the lighting at our reception. We achieved a soft, romantic glow by placing brushed-gold candelabras for the corners of the ballroom and putting clear glass tapered candlesticks with votive toppers on each of the tables. In addition to the soft lighting, I also really loved the bamboo-wrapped floral arrangements of white orchids, hydrangeas, tulips and bells of Ireland. These tall arrangements nicely balanced the lower, square containers holding single cluster arrangements of all white callas, tulips, garden roses, hydrangeas and hanging amaranthus. Of course, food was also at the forefront of our design vision! The food stations were creatively placed throughout the ballroom. We had a sushi station and a friend mac-and-cheese station! Melissa Ippensen and Rose Sinclair of Sea Island really helped make our design vision a reality.
Describe your wedding dress: Romona Keveza was the designer, and I was attracted to the classic and timeless look of the gown. The one shoulder ivory gown was made of silk taffeta and featured a draped bodice with a soft sweetheart neckline. The back of the dress was highlighted with a watteau train and fitted ruched skirt. I finished the look with a classic cathedral length veil and blusher of ivory silk tulle.
Describe your wedding flowers: My hand-tied bouquet was filled with all-white garden roses and lilies of the valley. My Maid and Matron of Honor carried bouquets of all-white hydrangeas and garden roses. Our flower girl carried a small nosegay of white roses and freesia with a trailing ribbon. Patrick and our two fathers wore lily of the valley boutonnières. The other groomsmen wore boutonnières of white dendrobium orchids. Our ring bearer carried a sea shell filled with green moss.
You’re in for a treat with the reception photos in Part III!
RSS news source: http://www.swsmag.net/blog/2009/10/2/southern-wedding-of-the-week-erin-patrick-part-ii.html
Southern Wedding of the Week: Erin + Patrick, Part I
October 2, 2009 By Leave a Comment
RSS news source: swsmag.net/blog
I know we rarely (okay, almost never) share rehearsal dinner pics, but, as our lovely Art Director, Emily, reminds us, one bride’s rehearsal dinner is another’s wedding inspiration. There sure are plenty of details I’d love to steal from Erin + Patrick’s swanky rehearsal dinner at the Sea Island Beach Club. Photographer Laura Negri Childers captured the laidback seaside feel of the intimate family gathering while still highlighting the sophisticated Souther details. I should point out that Erin wore the very same ruffly yellow dress her grandmother wore to the bride’s mother’s wedding in 1975. Could that sweet sweet couple be any cuter? I’d tell you a bit about Erin + Patrick’s ceremony and reception but you really need to see the phenom photos for yourself!
How did the two of you meet? Tell us your story. We met at a mutual friend’s wedding in 2004, and Patrick asked me for a date the following week. It was then that we realized the large number of mutual friends we shared and that we both had attended the University of Georgia. Our paths had to have crossed 100 times in Athens! The timing must have been finally “right” for us to meet!
Describe the proposal. Patrick called me the morning of Friday, January 23rd and told me he would be coming to pick me up in a few hours and that we would be taking a surprise trip. He would not reveal the destination, and I must have asked him 20 times in the car, “Where are we headed and how long will it take?” It was the longest car ride of my life and had to be for him as well with all of my questioning. Two hours later we arrived at the Old Edwards Inn in Highlands, NC. We were greeted with champagne and I was busy taking pictures of the beautiful scenery and interiors of the hotel. I had just finished taking a photograph when the next sight I saw was Patrick on his knee. After I screamed “yes” I took his picture as he was on his knee proposing! It was too perfect that I had my camera in hand (unplanned) to capture the moment when he asked me to marry him! Patrick then surprised me with special bottles of wine we had purchased together in Napa the previous fall. We allowed ourselves one hour to call family and close friends and then turned our phones off to enjoy the beauty of Highlands, NC and CELEBRATE!
Three adjectives that describe the day are: Sentimental, Southern and surreal.
What was the design inspiration for your wedding invitation? Simple elegance describes the ecru and brushed-gold card invitations we chose from Crane’s.
Tell us about finding your rehearsal dinner dress: I wore the dress my grandmother wore in my mother’s wedding as her “mother of the bride” gown. My grandmother is no longer with us and it was very important for me to honor and remember her on that special night. We had the dress shortened and altered a bit, but otherwise it was in pristine condition and had not been taken out of the cleaner’s bag since 1975!
Stay tuned for ceremony pictures in Part II!
Pretty Wedding Shoes That Give Back – Proceeds Benefit Brides Against Breast Cancer
October 2, 2009 By Leave a Comment
Bought your shoes yet? Bliss Bridal Shoes (BlissBridalShoes.com)has a program going on this month to check out — for every pair of wedding shoes sold in October, a percentage of the proceeds will benefit the Brides Against Breast Cancer Foundation (BridesAgainstBreastCancer.org). Oh right, and the shoes are supercute!
> Need a little something something to perk up your wedding dress? Get wedding day jewelry and accessory ideas
RSS news source: http://community.theknot.com/cs/ks/blogs/wedding_style_file/archive/2009/10/01/pretty-wedding-shoes-that-give-back-proceeds-benefit-brides-against-breast-cancer.aspx
Featured in Bride and Bloom Magazine
September 29, 2009 By Leave a Comment
Back in February, my friend Leila from Be Inspired PR sent an unexpected email asking if I’d like to do a feature for Bride and Bloom magazine. The catch was that we had two days to produce and shoot it and we had a big wedding the same week. Naturally, we said yes.
I always seem to have different favorite photos than the ones chosen for print, so I wanted to share some more of the photos from the shoot here and want to explain a little about our thought process that went into creating this tablescape.
We were assigned the color yellow (my fave) to work with, so my thoughts immediately went to a light and breezy picnic-type vibe. I also wanted to create something that could be easily recreated in every day life. Many times, magazine shoots are over-the-top and opulent and while they are fun to design and create, they tend to be unattainable in real life. After all, you shouldn’t have to choose between paying your mortgage and throwing a beautiful bridal shower for your best friend.
I enlisted the help of the super talented Kelly Ashworth to design the needed stationery items. She created the invitations, menus and place cards. The direction I gave her was basically: yellows and accent colors, picnic-y, cute and left it at that. She decided to do the invitations as mini accordian style books. They are probably my favorite part of the entire shoot:
Next, Jeannie from White Poppy Floral came up with the flower arrangements and the direction I gave her was basically the same as what I had given Kelly. She used different vases of varying heights and used flowers she was able to get locally to create simple arrangements:
I opted for a simple table runner because I felt that a full tablecloth would detract from the outdoor look and the table was pretty enough on it’s own. I originally wanted to do picnic benches with throw pillows for the seating, but given the short time frame, opted for chiavari chairs from Tri-Rentals instead. The buttercup yellow chair ties are from BBJ Linen (we’re spoiled that Phoenix has one of the warehouses and I can pickup at will call and don’t need to have them shipped) and the table runner is actually a chair tie as well. Planning tip: most linen companies don’t stock separate table runners, so when you see them in photos or at weddings, they are actually always the chair ties unless they’ve been custom-made.
I am typically not a fan of wedding favors; I cannot tell you how many get left on the tables at the end of the night and I always get a little sick to my stomach when they wind up in the garbage. I do, however, love the idea of taking the money budgeted for favors and donating it to a charity that is important to you. I serve on the board of directors for Pink Initiative, an organization focused on breast cancer, so I chose to showcase them for the favors needed for the shoot. Kelly made little tags that denoted the gift made in each guest’s name and we tied them to small lemonade bottles. Instead of setting the bottles at each seat, we grouped them in trifle bowls and incorporated them into the table’s decor.
Instead of a traditional wedding cake, we used a lemon tart that Danielle from Sweet Pea Bakery in downtown Phoenix made for us. We placed the tart on a cake stand and also incorporated it into the table decor as well. Sweet Pea is one of my favorite bakeries in the Phoenix area and all of their baked goods are to die for. They are also fantastic to work with on weddings.
Thanks to everyone who helped us pull this together and for being flexible on such short notice. Also, special thanks to Darby Elizabeth for taking all the photos.
RSS news source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/BlueOrchidDesigns/~3/Bz0N2qqEMhc/featured-in-bride-and-bloom-magazine.html
Indiana Details: Peyton + Nick, Part II
September 29, 2009 By Leave a Comment
One image board really is never enough and I’ve got to thank Megan W. Photography for giving us so many fabulous images! I love how Petyon + Nick gave their classic black-and-white wedding a modern, updated look by adding fresh green accent pieces. The table centerpieces from Posh Petals are clean and understated and that four-tiered black, white and green cake from Classic Cakes is stylishly fun without losing its elegant edge. Another look at the dramatic back detailing on the bride’s Melissa Sweet gown and I am good to go… for now, at least!
Describe your wedding flowers: I knew I wanted large, ivory and white roses for my bouquet. For my bridesmaids’ bouquets, I wanted something modern and simple in greens and whites. My only request was that I didn’t want anything traditional or over the top and our florist, Posh Petals, did a fabulous job of interpreting just what I wanted. They did an amazing job and were so fun to work with!
Describe your wedding cake: I am a huge fan of wedding cakes in general, but wanted our cake to help pull all the wedding details together! The cake itself had three different flavors with butter cream frosting. The green damask design and black ribbon looked great and tied together all of the colors and damask patterns from the invitations, programs, etc.
Our favorite detail of the wedding was: The photo booth we used in place of individual favors! It was so much fun and everyone loved it! Everyone got to take six pictures (in black and white or color) and the photo booth attendant then cut off a strip of the pictures for them to glue into an album for us with a personal message. The guests got to keep the other strip of pictures for themselves!
Funniest moment? When it came time to throw by bouquet, I accidentally threw it into a large chandelier! It came right back down and landed about a foot away from me so I had to throw it again!
What’s next for you as a couple? We just moved to California, so we’re working on getting settled, decorating our new place and meeting new people!
Congratulations to Peyton + Nick, and good luck settling into your new life together!
RSS news source: swsmag.net/blog
Indiana Details: Peyton + Nick, Part I
September 29, 2009 By Leave a Comment
Thank you to the wedding gods (a.k.a. our Art Director, Emily Ayer) for giving me another quick fix for my black-and-white wedding addiction. Needless to say, I’m in Monday morning heaven with Peyton + Nick’s Indiana wedding at the Columbia Club from Megan W. Photography. Classic black bowties, simple Melissa Sweet bridesmaid dresses and lovely bouquets of white roses and daisies from Posh Petals – what more could a self-proclaimed B&W lover wish for? How about a stunning Melissa Sweet gown with sweet lace and ribbon detailing paired with drop-dead gorgeous high heels? Check! Come back in a bit and we can ogle this classically elegant affair some more!
How did the two of you meet? Tell us your story. It’s pretty safe to say we’ve known each other forever. Our parents are friends and have known each other for years, and Nick and I were even in the same fourth grade class! Our families often took spring break trips together throughout school and Nick and I began dating seriously at the end of our freshman year of high school before both attending Purdue University.
What was the design inspiration for your wedding? The rooms for our ceremony and reception at The Columbia Club were gorgeous and gave us tons of inspiration! The classic style was not only the perfect backdrop for our wedding but also allowed us to stick with a black and white theme while adding some modern touches of green!
Tell us about finding your wedding dress: My parents live in southern California, so my mom and I went dress shopping at The White Dress in Corona Del Mar while I was out visiting over Christmas. The White Dress is one of the most beautiful stores I have ever seen and just screams elegant, classic bride! I also had the best salesperson, Brielle, who made it an amazing experience. She helped me find some great dresses and made the whole process spectacular! We found several dresses that we really liked, but when I tried my dress on we all knew it was the one! Brielle then popped open some champagne and gave some to everyone in the store to celebrate. It was a great day!
Three adjectives that describe the day are: Perfect, fun and classic.
RSS news source: swsmag.net/blog
Simple Inspiration
September 29, 2009 By Leave a Comment
I love this bandana inspired tablescape Country Living has created. What a great way to incorporate your favorite fabric into your wedding or dinner party! They have so many great ideas on their website – I am on it almost everyday.
{photos from country living / photo credit Wendell T. Webber}
RSS news source: thoughtfulday.blogspot.com
Altar Decoration Ideas for Weddings
September 22, 2009 By 1 Comment
MODERN WEDDING CHAPEL
The altar area of the ceremony venue is important for a variety of reasons. For one, this is where the couple would stay during most part of the ceremony. Most parts of the wedding rites will be held here such as the kissing of the bride, exchanging of vows, wearing of the rings, and even the family pictures afterwards. More importantly, this is also a sacred place of worship. Needless to say, the altar area is also the focal point of the venue.
For these reasons, it is necessary to have gorgeous and eye-catching altar decorations to make the wedding event more beautiful. If you read on to these great ideas for altar decoration, you will find out that decorating the altar is not as difficult as you think.
Altar Decoration Idea # 1 Potted Plants that Double as Favors
Fill the altar area with a couple of large potted flowering plants as decoration around the altar area. These potted plants can be given afterwards as favors to guests or as a token of gratitude for people who helped organize your wedding.
Altar Decoration Idea # 2 Light the Altar with Candles
A pair of beautiful unity candles decorated with flowers is ideal to place on the sides of the altar. Candelabras with long taper candles, ribbons and tulle are also another option. Moreover, you can fill the altar with dozens of votive or tea light candles and place them on the tables and floors of the altar area.
Church Entrance
Altar Decoration Idea # 3 Scenery Backdrops and Gazebos for Outdoor Venues
If you are going to hold your wedding in a garden, the altar area can be a gazebo adorned with volumes of white tulle, satin ribbons, and garlands of flowers. For the backdrop, have a beautiful lake, ocean, or landscape scenery to make the altar more stunning.
Altar Decoration Idea # 4 The Fabulous Lattice Arch
An alternative to the gazebo is a white lattice arch (that can be used for indoors as well) that are designed with white tulle, veil netting, and lush of greeneries. Another option would be to make a gorgeous arch made of flowers or balloons.
Altar Decoration Idea # 5 Flowers, Flowers, and Flowers
Flower decoration options can be floral balls, wicker baskets filled with rose bouquets, dried flower wreaths, silk flowers, fresh flowers, and garlands. Also a wonderful way to decorate the altar with flowers is to scatter rose petals around the area for a more romantic feel.
Altar Decoration Idea # 6 Lush of Greens
Aside from flowers, it would also be nice to have lush of greeneries in the altar area. For example, you can two large green topiaries and place them on either side of the altar. These topiaries can be adorned with tulle bows, flowers, balloons, raffia, and ribbons.
The altar will serve more than just a backdrop to your wedding. More importantly, this is a sacred place where you and your partner would make a vow to spend the rest of your lives together for better or for worse so it is only right that you decorate it beautifully.
Source: This article was written by Janet Plunkett, an expert wedding blogger and planning consultant for MyDreamWedding.ca and TheBridalCoach.ca
Create Your Own Floating Candle Centerpieces
September 13, 2009 By
Author: Angela White
Getting married can be unbelievably expensive. With so many things to spend for like the wedding gown, catering, flowers, church, souvenirs, invitations, and so on, your savings can be depleted in no time. Even buying of wedding centerpieces can be just too costly.
It is a good thing that there are tricks you can do to save money on your wedding. One way to do that is to create your own wedding centerpieces, which is not only cheap but will also give you the opportunity to personalize the centerpieces and enable you to bond with your bridesmaids.
A floating candle centerpiece is one of the best options that you have. Not only is this exquisite and beautiful, it is also very easy to make that you would not feel any stress while engaged in this project.
To help you create wonderful floating candle centerpieces, here are the basic steps to keep in mind:
1. Choose the right candles
Since the candles are the focal point of this centerpiece, you need to choose the right kinds to display. Candles come in a wide variety of shapes, colors, and sizes and you have to choose based on your personal preference and in accordance to the theme of the wedding.
For example, if you want your wedding to exude romance, heart shaped candles is the best way to go. If you want to have a simple but elegant wedding, white round candles are ideal. Now, if the theme of your wedding is Irish, choose thick cream candles.
Aside from the appearance and style of the candle, you also have to choose good quality candles that have long burning time, no smoke film, lead-free wicks, and low soot wax.
2. Look for a bowl
The next thing that you have to look for is the bowl where you will be placing the candles. A goblet or small stemmed bowl is perfect for a single floating candle centerpiece. A wide bowl, on the other hand, is ideal for a group of small candles. You also have the option to use pedestal bowls for a three-dimensional effect of light, triangle or square bowls for a unique display, and hourglass shaped cylinders to express artistry and creativity.
3. Add special touches to your centerpiece
Decorative pieces help make the centerpiece look even more beautiful that it already is. You can embellish the centerpiece with real or silk flowers, quartz crystals, sand, marbles, colored stones, natural pebbles, seashells, or gems to add a more dramatic effect. You can even put in a few drops of food coloring to give color to the water.
4. Pick a base for the centerpiece.
Another important part of the centerpiece that many people overlook is the base. The right kind of base can finish the look of the centerpiece. You can choose from mirrors, loose flower petals, decorative plate, or a fabric.
Creating floating candle wedding centerpieces is easier than most people think. With creativity and resourcefulness, you will easily be able to make personalized floating candle centerpieces that will add classy ambience to your wedding event.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/weddings-articles/create-your-own-floating-candle-centerpieces-1210612.html
About the Author:
Angela White is a certified wedding planner in TheBridalCoach.ca wedding planning membership site and writes articles on newest wedding trends, including selecting wedding theme collections and beach weddings.
Engaging Affairs in Engaged! Magazine
September 10, 2009 By Leave a Comment
Wedding News Via RSS: http://bridalbubbly.blogspot.com/2009/08/engaging-affairs-in-engaged-magazine.html
We were so thrilled to open the gorgeous new issue of Engaged! Magazine and see, not only one of our weddings featured in a stunning real wedding spread (“A Celebration of Love and Family” pages 124-133), but a whole page feature of one of our engaged couple’s casual portrait session.
Kavi and Maria’s three-day celebration last year was one of my favorites so it was great fun to relive it again through the lovely article and photos. I love the fact that the real weddings are several pages each so you get a great sense of the event from start to finish.
The adorable engagement portraits of Kendall and Nick reminded me that my Fall weddings are right around the corner (and then it will be 2010–aaagh)! Be sure to pick up a copy of Engaged! and check out the amazing real weddings and fun articles.
Laura
Wedding Cake Ideas – Vintage Meets Modern Designs
September 10, 2009 By Leave a Comment
Wedding News Via RSS: http://community.theknot.com/cs/ks/blogs/wedding_style_file/archive/2009/08/28/wedding-cake-ideas-vintage-meets-modern-designs.aspx
So many of you want an old-meets-new theme for your wedding. This attention demanding cake from the ICES (International Cake Exploration Societe) show would fit right in: It combines antique applique designs with a contemporary palette of lime, black and white. The sugar anemone on top is literally the icing on the cake.
Cake: ICES (http://www.ices.org/)
Magazine Pages 304 – 405
September 10, 2009 By
Looking for that perfect guest book or are you dreaming of a unique way to create an alternative to the traditional guest book? Right here we have a number of great examples. Have your guests write you a personal wedding wish on these stylish novelty cards and place them in your container, or hang them on an orchid adorned willow branch.
Don’t leave ‘man’s best friend’ at home on your special day. Whether you choose at pet tux, or a Best Pet wedding bow, include your dog in your ceremony. And you have to see the bride and groom rubber duckies below. They are so cute, and can make a fun, informal wedding table centrepiece if they float in a dish with a floating candles and a few flower heads.
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Magazine Pages 202 – 303
September 10, 2009 By
WOW! Have you seen these wedding favors? No longer the little mints given out in your mother’s day—today’s wedding favors reflect your personal style, fit your wedding theme, and help you decorate your wedding reception tables. Lollipop filled galvanized cans and pails are adorable, and would be a nice touch to set out on a tray placed on your bar, or have a tray of them on your candy table.
There are many adorable candles in the shape of a wedding cake, a Cinderella wedding carriage, or even country cows! Something for every theme, in a variety of colours.
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How to Have a Budget Wedding that Looks Absolutely Gorgeous
September 2, 2009 By Leave a Comment
People who think that weddings can never be inexpensive are either extremely rich or are not creative. The truth is, with proper planning, inventive ways, and a little help from people close to you, it is possible to create a wedding that looks stunning and gorgeous without having to spend a fortune.
How do you that? Listed below are 20 brilliant suggestions on how to have the wedding of the year for a smaller price tag.
1. Jot down a budget. Before anything else, you need to enumerate the expenditures and allocate budget for each. This helps you avoid spending beyond what you can afford.
2. Keep the wedding simple. Extravagance does not always equate to beauty. Sometimes, the simpler it is the better. By keeping it simple but elegant, you will have a fabulous wedding that will not leave you broke.
3. Borrow your Mom’s wedding dress. This can be a sentimental move that will surely touch your mother and add meaning to the event.
4. Have a brunch instead of dinner reception
5. Trim down the guest list. An intimate wedding with people closest to you can be more beautiful than one filled with people you barely know.
6. Shop for a bargain wedding gown. Believe it or not, if you have flair for fashion you can easily find an exquisite wedding gown that does not cost that much.
7. Use flowers that are in season.
8. Be your own make-up artist. How many horror stories have you heard about brides ending up looking like Boy George or the Joker from Batman? If you do your own hair and make-up, not only will you save money, you can also be assured that you end up looking the way you want to. (If you do not have this kind of talent, one of your friends probably has, go ahead and enlist their help.)
9. Borrow jewelry from friends and relatives.
10. Hold the reception in your home. Holding the reception in your home (or in your partner’s) can surely add significance to the momentous occasion. It will also save you hundreds of dollars on venue rental. Now all you have to worry about is the catering!
11. Print your own invitations.
12. Have your bridesmaids wear their own dresses. Gone are the days when the bridesmaids have to look like replica of each other. Have them express their own style by letting them wear their own dresses. They would surely appreciate having the freedom of choice. If you want to have some conformity among your bridesmaids, you can ask them to wear the same color of dresses.
13. Go for balloons instead of flowers. Balloons, given the right creative touch and arrangement, can look just as exquisite as flowers.
14. Hold the ceremony and reception at the same venue. This can save on transportation expenses.
15. Create your own wedding souvenirs. Think out of the box and create favors that nobody has ever thought of before.
16. Buy Discount Shoes. Why splurge on something that nobody else would see? The important thing here is that you choose a pair that is comfortable and of good quality. You do not want broken heels in the middle of the processional, right?
17. Do not hold the wedding during peak season.
18. Have a wedding cupcake tower. This is beautiful, delicious, and yet very inexpensive!
19. Choose buffet over sit down meals.
20. Make your own CD mix or record your wedding song choices on your iPod and then rent good quality speakers. This is a lot less expensive than hiring a live band to play.
The wedding is an important event but it is not everything so it is never smart to spend your life savings on this one-time event when you can have a budget wedding that looks just as spectacular.
Best Wedding Reception Invitation Wording
August 26, 2009 By Leave a Comment
While most couples think that the style and appearance of the invitation is its most important facet, you have to know that the wording of the invite is just as crucial. Because the text contains essential information about the event, you have to write the wording in such a way that it would sound elegant and personalized at the same time.
You also have to note that invitation does not necessarily have to come in one piece. Most couples think that combining the reception and ceremonial invitation is economical but some couples prefer to give out separate invitations for the two events.
One reason may be the couple wants to limit the guests during the ceremony to people who are closest to them. Another possible reason is that the ceremonial event was held in a far destination and the couple wants to hold the reception in their hometown.
If you think you would want to practice the same thing on your wedding but you have no idea about reception invitations, below you will find on tips on how to write the best reception invitation wording.
1. Emphasize on important details
Sure, it is nice to give a wonderful introduction in the invitation wording. However, do not flood the invitation with so many words that the reader will have a hard time finding the important details such as time, date, and place.
2. Be careful in the phrasing
Avoid making it look like that there was a ceremonial event in the local vicinity where the recipient of the reception invitation was not invited or that you only want to have more gifts.
The following sample wordings below may just do the trick:
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Johnston
Invite you to join the celebration of the recent marriage of their daughter,
Janina Johnston to Pacey Dawson
Which took place September 23, 2008 in Paris, France
Come toast with the newly-wed couple on
Sunday, October 26, 2008 3 pm
At the Mitchells Country Club in
Plano, Texas
–
The newly-weds Jason and Charlene Stevens
Wish to have the gift of your presence
At a dinner honoring their love and commitment for each other
On Saturday August 19, 2005 6 pm
At their residence in Parkland, Florida.
3. Decide whether to have a formal or informal invitation
This decision will have to depend on the type of reception that you want to hold. If it is going to be a formal dinner party, then have a formal wording on the reception invitation. But if you plan to hold a low-key and casual party, an informal wording will be ideal.
A formal reception invitation will look something like:
You are cordially invited to a wedding reception
To celebrate the love and commitment
Between the newly-wed couple, Mark and Irene
Friday August 14, 2005 at 6 pm
At the Florida Country Club
—
Meanwhile, an informal reception invitation wording sample is something like:
Mike and Wendi just tied the knot!
Let’s have a blast in celebrating the love of this couple
With a small party at their house
Sunday August 16, 2005 at 6 pm.
Be there!
The wedding invitation is the sneak peek of your wedding. It gives guest preview of what the theme is, what is going to happen, and where the event is taking place. Because of the significance of the wedding invitation, couples strive to have the best kind to give out to their guests.
Guidelines for the First-Time Wedding MC
August 23, 2009 By Leave a Comment
If you think being a wedding planner is the only nerve-wracking and challenging job that has to do with weddings, think again. Being an MC or the Master of Ceremonies is another task worthy of praises because an MC can truly make a wedding reception special and unforgettable.
If you have been asked to be an MC for an upcoming wedding event whether it is a favor for a friend or you have just started doing it for a living, the first thing that you have to realize is that this job is not going to be a breeze.
Even though being an MC means dropping a couple of jokes here and there, you have to know that this job should be taken very seriously. After all, the success of the reception depends primarily on you. Fortunately, this wedding MC guide for beginners provides helpful insights and practical tips on how to win your audience and provide entertainment that the couple will surely thank you for.
1. Plan and prepare. The wedding reception plan is an extensive and comprehensive one. You should sit down with the couple to discuss in detail what they want to happen during the reception. Do they want a formal and solemn celebration or do they want something light and upbeat? Does the couple appear traditional or are they the type who have modern taste and style? All these factors should be considered when making a program for the event.
2. Arrive at the event early. Whatever you do, never be late for a wedding reception. Even if you think you are the best kind of MC there is, it is still not all right to be unprofessional. Arriving early also gives you a head start and you can begin to observe people around. This will make it easier for you to have a smooth flow of program during the reception. It will also give you time to check the audio equipment if it is working properly. There is nothing more embarrassing than talking for several minutes only to realize that nobody has actually heard a thing you have said.
3. Give your guests a good laugh. As we all know, being funny is not easy. If you are not a natural comedian, the best thing you can do is to carry with you timeless jokes that are simple, good-natured and generally funny. Never resort to jokes about religion, disabilities or races so as not to offend anyone in the room. It is also a good idea to tell funny stories about the couple but make sure to skip anything that can be offensive to anyone.
4. Prepare an inspiring toast. Keep your message short and sweet. A toast about 3 minutes is usually enough. If you are going to present other guests for speeches, be sure to introduce them with delight and enthusiasm.
5. Talk to your audience. Have eye contact with the members of the audience so it will not seem as if you are talking to a blank wall.
6. Be ready for surprises. Weddings are full of surprises. Be sure you know how to handle the situation when something goes wrong. For example, if a groomsman mentions anything about the groom’s ex-girlfriend, interrupt and change the subject. If a relative drinks too much at the wedding and wants to hog the spotlight, be sure you know how to deal with this.
7. Understand that you are not the star. Never steal the limelight from the couple, especially from the bride. This is not your show. You are only an instrument that can make this event a memorable one.
A Master of Ceremonies truly has a variety of responsibilities to do for the couple. But the most important duty of all is to ensure a smooth flow of the program and to provide good-natured entertainment all throughout the reception event.
Thinking Of A Sweet Gift That Will Be Loved By Everyone
August 19, 2009 By
While cupcakes, candies and shortcakes have been common souvenir items nowadays, chocolates have always and will always be the most preferred sweets to give out. Not just because it is sinfully luscious or because of the wide varieties available, it is simply the best expression of love, which on that special day, is being celebrated. From the time the man courts a woman, during dinner dates, engagement party, or just some simple visits, chocolates are commonly included or selected as part of the menu or serves as a present.
With the finest ingredients and the elegant presentations, chocolates are definitely a surely appreciated gift for those who will attend your day. A lot of kinds, shapes and sizes, not to mention the flavors, will definitely melt down your heart’s desire! For sure, there’s a truffle wedding favor to fit your theme, or basically, your interest.
Most have their own personal favorite, so there’s no problem on what flavor to pick. So other considerations will follow, such as the shape or design of he chocolate piece or bar, whether to color it up or just simply wrap them in the wedding motif color wrappers.
For those who would want some fruity taste or a variation in taste, there are available truffles with fruit or other flavorings; some may even mix bits of those tasty pieces. You might want to choose from raspberry, pistachio, almond, mint, rum, cherry, orange, Irish crème and mocha. Actually, flavors does not end here, you might be surprised that there are other combinations available in the market, or special confectioner shops.
Consider giving your guests something unique. Shops are offering handmade chocolate candies that are also made to order. Moreover, they will ask you for your preferred choices so it will be more personalized. Go over the flavors, it will help you decide which to choose. Commonly prepared as bases are milk, dark, white or sweetened chocolate. It will also vary on the added ingredients such as rum, fruits, nuts, rice crispies, marshmallows and coverings such as hard candy shells. You can even mix some kinds to pack them as assorted chocolate pieces. These are available in two or even three truffle favors.
Aside from the taste, the appearance of the candy is also important. Besides making it look delicious, isn’t it fun to make it look somewhat artistic, with things that will obviously remind them of the sweet beginnings you both built? Molders and other kitchen things are widely manufactured to help those cooks prepare the most perfect figures and shapes you would want those truffle wedding favors to appear. They can even mold some hard candies or icings as added features to the design of your crafty edibles!
Another consideration for your truffle keepsake to be presented with class and to give that personal appeal is the product packaging. From foil and plastic candy wrappers, to boxes, there are millions of designs and styles you can match with the product. Wrappers, as mentioned can either be colored foils or plastics. There are also different sizes of paper cups to contain the chocolates.
As to package, small pouches like paper, cloth, organza or plastics are some of the options. There are also gift boxes wherein shapes and sizes are sorted. You can even opt for more customization like color preference, label contents, and the materials to be used in the box itself.
For further finishing and garnishing, ribbons are the common accessory being used; it serves as the seal for the container. If you want a cleaner look of the presentation, use a glittery ribbon or string over a plain-colored box and then put a tag on the string containing the event details or just some simple printout of your names or initials.
You may think that souvenir items are meant to last for long, and of course, we know that edible favors, especially chocolate truffles are indeed a great treat for kids and adults alike to be consumed, even in just one sitting! So, even if the content disappears immediately, the package should be something functional, so it will be kept and used by your guests not just as a display material but a simple container to hold their little treasures.
So come on, savor the romance and melt their hearts by sharing sweet chocolate-y love!
Source: This article is a contribution of TheBridalCoach.ca, the leading online wedding planning membership site specializing in wedding styles and themes, furthermore they have great advice on wedding photographers.
The History of Calla Lilies
July 27, 2009 By
Martha Stewart is a big fan of the calla lily wedding theme, especially as a wedding flower and no one does a wedding better than the Queen of Good Things. According to her, the calla lily was the flower that early Romans used to signify the passing of the winter solstice. The Romans would plant them just inside their homes, and timing the planting perfectly so that they would bloom as the winter solstice occurred, and the calla lily offered light and beauty in an otherwise dark and dreary time of year.
The larger the display of calla lilies, the wealthier the Roman home occupants were. Calla lilies were so revered by the Romans, they went so far as to decorate the edges of the blooms with gold filament.
Calla Lily Wedding Theme
Martha Stewart is a big fan of the calla lily wedding theme, especially as a wedding flower and no one does a wedding better than the Queen of Good Things. According to her, the calla lily was the flower that early Romans used to signify the passing of the winter solstice. The Romans would plant them just inside their homes, and timing the planting perfectly so that they would bloom as the winter solstice occurred, and the calla lily offered light and beauty in an otherwise dark and dreary time of year. The larger the display of calla lilies, the wealthier the Roman home occupants were. Calla lilies were so revered by the Romans, they went so far as to decorate the edges of the blooms with gold filament.
Calla lily translates to magnificent beauty and the flowers never disappoint. Their pure white unusual blooms and the vibrant green stalks and leaves make the calla lily a perennial favorite for flower lovers the world over. Symbolic in nature, their shape is said to resemble trumpets that are singing out victory to the heavenly sky that they stretch out to. Could there be a more perfect wedding theme.
Popular with Spring and autumn splendor weddings, calla lilies are certainly perfect for a winter wonder land wedding as well – working in perfect harmony with wintery white snow, ice and crystal. A calla lily theme wedding is simply exquisite no matter what season the wedding is held, or whether it is a morning, afternoon or evening wedding ceremony.
Throughout history, artists have included the calla lily in their paintings and sculptures of the Virgin Mary and the Angel of Annunciation – with the calla lilies used to signify purity and faith. This could be a good reason why a calla lily theme wedding is very popular with Christians and others getting married in a formal cathedral ceremony.
The calla lily has also been used over time to represent youth, regeneration and innocence. Another perfectly illuminating reason why calla lily wedding themes are so popular among contemporary couples who are looking for their wedding to be a rebirth of their relationships, in a symbolic sort of way.
For centuries, the calla lily has been a treasured flower which has been celebrated and stood as the showcased theme at many weddings. In modern times, the calla lily flower has become one of the most highly sought after flowers for a bride, and one of the most popular wedding themes for couples of all age, races and religions. In the 21st century, the calla lily has begun to outshine the traditional rose as the flower of choice for the bridal bouquet.
Beach Theme Wedding Favors For Those Who Love the Sea
July 14, 2009 By Leave a Comment
Beach theme wedding favors bring the spirit of the sea home with your guests after the reception ends. Celebrate your nautical nuptials by giving beach theme wedding favors to thank your guests.
The carefree romance of beach weddings is increasingly popular with celebrities and regular couples. The natural beauty and passion of the beach makes a perfect backdrop for wedding ceremonies. Instead of being in a stuffy indoor setting, the bride and groom vow eternal love in an outdoor oasis.
Salty sea breezes, lapping water and powdered sugar sand create beautiful beach wedding memories. Your beach wedding can be anywhere you choose including a local lake, bay or by the ocean. If there’s water, you can have a beach wedding.
Your day is even more unforgettable with beach theme wedding favors for all the guests. If you built castles in the sky and found love, give your guests “Castles in the Sand” sand castle tea lights to remember your wedding. Guide guests to their seats with miniature Adirondack chair place card holder/frames.
After the reception, they will proudly display your wedding photo in these little Adirondack chair frames. Destination wedding create exotic memories in faraway locations with swaying palm trees and sultry sun.
Capture the spirit with a palm tree cookie cutter in its own beach themed gift box. Secure place cards in silver pineapple place card holders and serve pina coladas. Consider getting married at sea for a truly unique experience. Whether you remain at the dock or sail away to exchange your vows, everyone will talk about your boat wedding for years.
Use silver place card holders shaped like sailboats at the reception. Give your guests frosted glass sailboat tea light holders as a treasure from their seafaring adventure.
Even if you don’t live near water, you can have a beach wedding. Create a beach scene with shells and seafaring decorations.
Have the wedding near a pool at a resort or in a large backyard. Place artificial palm trees around the pool. Buy sand and make a little beach of your own. Serve tropical cocktails. Give out margarita glass gel candles in tropical tiki hut gift boxes as gifts to your guests. Get everyone at your beach wedding in the mood by giving out flip flips.
Include beach theme wedding favors with flip flips, such as flip flop genuine leather key chains. Display place cards in beachcombers flip flop place card holders. No matter where you have your waterfront wedding, beach theme wedding favors are a treasured keepsake of the day.
Creative Wedding Shower Ideas
July 3, 2009 By Leave a Comment
Getting some good wedding or bridal shower ideas is not all that complicated because there are a lot of examples of some great wedding shower ideas for the host of the wedding shower to refer to as guidance. The best sources to go to would of course be bridal magazines and the internet, but also another way to go about it is to ask around and get the opinions of friends and family members of what a good wedding shower would be.
Alternatively, if let’s say the responsibility falls on your shoulders to host the wedding shower for one of your best friends who is getting married, you could browse the internet for a few wedding shower ideas examples, and pick the ones you think would suit the future bride best or something you think she would love the most. List down your choices and once you have your selection neatly penned down on paper, then ask everyone whom you are going to invite to the shower which theme they think would be the best to go with.
When narrowing down your wedding shower ideas, be sure to keep the future brides’ taste in mind, and what you think she would like best, not what you would like best. The party should be all about her after all. And you should go the same way with the wedding gift ideas for the shower as well. There are a number of traditional gifts that are usually given to the bride, like utensils for her future home, lingerie, sentimental keepsakes and personalized gifts perhaps, you don’t necessarily have to follow that order.
