Wedding Archives
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5 Common Summer Wedding Problems, Solved!
Don't let the sun, wind, and bugs ruin your special day.
Nancy Mattia
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Saying "I do" in the summertime is the ultimate dream for many brides, but it could also turn out to be a nightmare. With problems specific to the season (or warm weather in general) that can throw a wrench in even the most carefully planned wedding, it's important to think ahead when it comes to summer nuptials. Check out five of the most common seasonal wedding problems and their solutions.
Your makeup is having a meltdown.
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When the makeup artist finished doing your face and you saw yourself in the mirror, you were thrilled. Then you and the girls took some outdoor photos, and your foundation and mascara started dripping off your face. Quick fixes will help, but the best solution actually happens before the problem arises. Ask your makeup artist to use powder-based makeup rather than liquid since those formulations will stay on longer.
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Your vows on the beach are getting drowned out by the wind.
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You spent lots of time writing heartfelt vows but high winds are making it impossible for anyone to hear them. Instead of struggling to scream above the breeze, make sure you have a mic and speakers (likely battery-operated) that are powerful enough to make your vows audible. Your DJ should be able to help you arrange this.
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The indoor ceremony site has no air-conditioning.
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Now your guests are ready to pass out from the stifling heat. Plan to keep the ceremony short so nobody has to linger in the hot temps too long. And ask about renting giant fans, too. If cooling the space isn't an option, paper fans (that can double as programs) could help.
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Flies and mosquitoes are attacking people.
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Flying insects love the outdoors, too. Everyone's getting bitten. Instead of asking your loved ones to swat away the pests, keep plenty of bug spray on hand for guests to spritz. Also set up huge fans, which will literally blow away the pesky insects.
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The midday sun is frying guests at the reception.
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A 3 p.m. outdoor celebration sounds idyllic but if that's when the sun is hottest in your area, your friends and families will feel like bacon sizzling in a frying pan. Your best bet is to avoid midday celebrations. Schedule your vows for when the rays have calmed down and it's more bearable to be outside. If the timing is unavoidable, keep guests well hydrated with plenty of cold, nonalcoholic drinks. Also offer relief in the form of fans, floppy hats, and big umbrellas over reception tables.
10 Creative Fall Wedding Ideas
10 Creative Fall Wedding Ideas
Fall weddings can offer some creative options as far as decorations, flowers, wedding cakes and more. We thought the best way for you to start to think about planning your fall wedding would be to offer you our 10 most creative fall wedding ideas and let you take it from there.
1. Serve Pie
Fall is a great time to serve up some pie at your wedding. You can either give guests individual small pies or your can display a large table of a variety of pie flavors.
2. Wear A Sweater
Keep warm on those chilly fall days by adding a sweater to your wedding day look. You can also bundle up your bridesmaids in sweaters so they are not as cold too.
3. Have Your Picture Taken In A Pumpkin Patch
Nothing says fall like a pumpkin so make the most of what nature has to offer at this time of the year and have your photographer grab a picture or two in a pumpkin patch.
4. Decorate With White Pumpkins
White pumpkins, otherwise known as Boo pumpkins can really look great and elegant at a fall wedding. Keeping with the wedding white color theme these little fall treat are easy to find at farmer’s markets and can work in a wide variety of ways.
5. Use Pumpkins In Your Centerpiece
Wedding centerpieces are not always easy to decide on but I think anyone hosting a fall wedding can agree that a few centerpieces involving pumpkins can be a great option. See how some other brides have used pumpkins as wedding centerpieces.
6. Decorate With Apples
Apples might not be the most popular symbol for the fall season the way pumpkins are but they work really well for decorating a wedding. Apple wedding decorations like from this real wedding are so super easy to do and tasty.
7. Make Apple Place Cards
A great budget friendly place card option is to use either red or green apples to create your wedding guests place cards.
8. Have A Leaf Inspired Guestbook
Create your own or find someone on Etsy to make you a unique guestbook. Either way this leaf inspired guestbook is perfect for the season.
9. Use Maple Syrup As Your Favor
A classic New England staple, maple syrup makes for the perfect fall wedding favor and it is always a favorite of our Rustic Wedding Chic readers. See more fun maple syrup wedding favor ideas.
10. Commission A Birch Style Wedding Cake
This cake is one of our most popular pins on Pinterest and it is not very hard to see why. A birch wedding cake is the best way to show off your fall wedding spirit. See more rustic wedding cake ideas.
These Are the 5 Things You Should Never Ask Your Bridesmaids to Do
Keep friendships strong throughout the planning process.
When you say yes to being a bridesmaid, you're automatically agreeing to take on several appointed duties, like planning the bachelorette party, participating in the wedding processional, and providing the bride with moral and emotional support along the way. What you're not agreeing to, though, is becoming your bride's personal assistant. Whether you're her sister, her life-long best friend, or college buddy, there's a limit on just how much the bride should ask of you. Brides-to-be, if you want to keep the peace and ensure your bridal party feels comfortable and happy, never ask a bridesmaid to do any of these five things.
Take on an Unrealistic Task
Although bridesmaids will be asked to handle various responsibilities throughout the planning process, they shouldn't be expected to take on extremely time-consuming jobs. According to Valarie Kirkbride Falvey, wedding planner and founder of Kirkbrides Wedding Planning & Design, this includes anything that's typically delegated to a professional, like "creating a full itinerary of the wedding day and handling coordination duties, heavy decorating of the wedding venue, or baking and decorating the wedding cake." A bride should always maintain realistic expectations for her bridesmaids, and never make someone complete a task they don't feel comfortable doing.
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Change Her Appearance
As per wedding tradition, the bride typically decides what her bridesmaids will wear to the wedding. In some cases, the bride may also have a little say in each woman's hairstyles and makeup looks. But that's where it stops. "I think that temporary cover-ups and changes to go along with the overall flow of the wedding atmosphere and look are okay," says Falvey. It's acceptable to have your bridesmaids wear a certain nail polish shade, or to ask that each woman refrains from applying bold eye makeup. But a bride should never ask a bridesmaid to change anything about her body, or make any major adjustments to her appearance. Expecting someone to dye their hair, lose or gain weight, or don something uncomfortable is overstepping reasonable expectations. "If you feel you have a strong enough relationship with someone to ask them to be in your wedding, then you should love who they already are without a lot of changes to that," Falvey adds.
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Pay More Than Expected
Despite meticulous budgeting, the cost of pre-ceremony celebrations is sometimes higher than expected. But forcing your 'maids to spend a pretty penny is both inconsiderate and unrealistic. According to Falvey, "the bride should keep in mind that all of the bridesmaids still have their regular lives, jobs, families, and responsibilities"-meaning that not everyone will be able to afford a destination bachelorette party. The bride shouldn't harbor any hard feelings against those who can't make it; instead, she should try her best to accommodate and understand everyone's particular financial situation before making plans.
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Step Outside of Her Comfort Zone
A bride should never expect her bridesmaids to unwillingly step outside of their comfort zones. If one of your girls hates public speaking, you shouldn't pressure her into giving a speech at the rehearsal dinner. Being mindful of your friends' boundaries will ensure everyone has a great time at all of the wedding festivities.
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Deal with Personal and Family Issues
Nearly every bride will have to deal with personal and family drama as she plans her wedding, but that doesn't mean your bridesmaids should have to help resolve the issue. "The only time bridesmaids should be tasked with conflict management is when a situation only encompasses the bridesmaids group, and it would be better for a bridesmaid to handle than the bride," says Falvey. "A bridesmaid should never be responsible for clearing up an issue between a bride and her future mother- or father-in-law, for example." Nobody wants to be the caught in the middle of someone else's drama.
5 Unique Cake Flavors to Serve at Your Winter Wedding
Warm up with these unique and delicious cake flavors for winter
The weather outside may be frightful, but your guests will feel warm and cozy during your reception-particularly while enjoying a slice of your delicious wedding cake. To help you serve the right cake this winter, we asked cake bakers to share their five favorite flavor combinations. Get inspired before you dig in!
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Bring back gingerbread.
Who doesn't have memories of decorating gingerbread houses during the holiday season? The nostalgic, sweet-meets-spicy flavor of gingerbread is perfect for a winter wedding cake. Jamaica Crist, owner of Top Tier Treats in Los Angeles, California, suggests pairing gingerbread cake with either a cream cheese or ginger mousse for a delightful, comforting flavor.
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Go crazy for cranberry.
It's safe to say that most holiday dinner spreads aren't complete without a bowl of cranberry sauce. Incorporate this Thanksgiving classic into your wedding by ordering a cranberry-orange wedding cake. "The cranberry orange works well with a custard filling, and possibly the addition of more cranberry purée, if desired," says Crist.
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Add preserved fruit.
Amy Mastronardi, owner of Hippie Chick Bakery in Kensington, New Hampshire, loves adding preserved fruit to winter wedding cakes of all flavors. In addition to cranberry compote, as Crist suggested, Mastronardi suggests adding a layer of apricot jam or fig preserves for great winter flavor.
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Pair it with peppermint.
During the frosty days of winter, refreshing peppermint pops up in candy bars, coffee, cookies, and more. Since this bright mint pairs nicely with chocolate, Top Tier Treats offers a rich chocolate cake filled with peppermint mousse, a pairing Crist compares to a Thin Mint Girl Scout cookie.
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Don't be afraid to spice it up.
Spiced desserts-like pumpkin pie and carrot cake-are typically in high demand during the fall, but these autumnal flavors can carry over into the winter season, too. Consider pairing pumpkin cake with cream cheese frosting, apple cake with caramel filling, or carrot cake with lemon buttercream for an unexpected dessert.
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These Are the Seven Wedding Trends You'll See Everywhere in 2022
Get ready to have a lot of fun, thanks to next-level entertainment, alternative floral arrangements, the return of destination events, and '70s-inspired décor.
The wedding boom is already here, but brides- and grooms-to-be should expect to feel the force of this explosion well into 2022. After a difficult season sans large-scale events, celebrations are back, and they truly are bigger than ever before, which is something that our 2022 wedding trends forecast confirms. We polled top-tier wedding planners and event designers across the country, asking them to share the predominant elements that will pull away from the pack next year; virtually all of them noted that these leading motifs, like bold color, new-age florals, interactive entertainment, and fun, are driven by this return to party-mode. We're here for it, and know you are, too. Ahead, discover—and get inspired by—the wedding trends to bookmark in the new year.
Interactive Entertainment
Yes, entertainment has always been a central focus of weddings, says Lynn Easton of Easton Events, but over-the-top musical elements are a top ask right now. "We frequently add a string section to the band for depth or include a pop-up boy band to rev things up," she adds. "From headliners to Hamilton solos, we are seeing a ton of musical diversity becoming an absolute priority." According to Xanath Banuelos, who helms XB Destination Weddings & Events, this approach will extend beyond music: "New surprise entertainment—think fortune tellers and professional dancers—will be embedded into the guests' space, making the wow factor more legit."
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Michelle Norwood of Michelle Norwood Events agrees, noting that there's yet another layer to consider: Couples are now "segmenting" their event's performances and choosing specific artists for each part of their event. "At one event, we had a cello for the ceremony, a second line, a violinist for cocktails, a brass band for dinner, and Elan Artists for the dancing portion of the evening," she says. "Attendees were blown away—I see this trend in all of my 2022 events."
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Alternative Florals
Shannon Leahy is calling the 2022 bloom scene "mono floral," which will feel decidedly less garden-inspired (romantic, lush arrangements dominated in 2020 and 2021). Smaller, grouped collections of blooms in similar hues will take center stage, she says; Laurie Arons of Laurie Arons Special Events agrees, predicting that "monochromatic tones of florals in different vessels for texture" will be a leading style choice. This trend might be borne out of style and necessity, as flower shortages continue across the globe. Norwood ("Clients are choosing greenery over flowers," she says) and Banuelos affirm this: "We're using less florals—but more delicate, bigger solo blooms that are very in line with the Japanese style." Rishi Patel, the event designer behind HMR Designs, notes that his couples are focusing their time and attention on more tactile tabletop details. "Many of our clients are investing more in unique linens, china, glassware, and flatware than the floral on the table itself," he explains. "These are intentional layers of detail which guests discover upon being seated—it's an elegant way of hosting."
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Expect to see a reinterpretation of color and neutrals in 2022. "Green—my favorite color—will be the neutral of choice," notes Arons. "Touches of green go with any palette, since flowers come in every shade with green leaves or stalks. It's always pretty, rich, and natural." While nearly half of our experts cited colorful events as a leading trend (Banuelos predicts that blue will be the stand-out shade of the year), Sarah Tivel of GATHER Events shares that tried-and-true neutrals (think cream, ivory, beige, and gray) aren't obsolete: "Couples want the timeless look of a neutral palette, but are adding in an element of surprise with a bright pop of color that accentuates the tones they're already working with," she says. "Think sweet mauves and blushes with a pop of bright red, or whites and greens with splashes of chartreuse or marigold."
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'70s Style
"Based on fashion trends, I have a feel the '70s are coming back to weddings," says Banuelos. There are a myriad of ways to interpret the period, but according to Amorology's Heather Balliet, a few up-and-coming relevant motifs are ribbed textures (corduroy bell-bottoms, anyone?) and pressed florals. Expect to see the former "on candles, rentals, or paper details," since the "fun texture adds all the warmth, while still leaning on the side of romance." As for the latter? "Pressed florals are making a comeback! We have seen them on cakes, invites, and table numbers, but using them on place cards or in an escort seating display will be a hit." Bonus points if you go for the disco-themed after-party, too.
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Intimacy
Micro weddings abounded out of necessity in 2020, and while guest counts have since risen, small events have imparted a lasting lesson: "Our clients want to make their weddings feel intimate even if they are not," says Arons. "We're doing this by creating cozy spaces that complement the setting." Summer Newman attributes this pull to "over a year of separation from family and friends," adding that her couples "can't get enough" of her efforts to weave these connection building blocks right into their décor schemes.
Fun
"People are ready to party!" says Balliet. "Gatherings of large groups are coming back in full force and duos want to celebrate their big day with all of their loved ones near and far." Creating an upbeat, ebullient atmosphere, then, will be key in 2022—something Newman (who notes that "fun" has been her recent couples' word of choice) says to achieve through design, entertainment, and surprise elements that leave a "euphoric after-taste." "We're creating the kinds of parties that guests will be talking about for years to come," she adds. Leahy suggests tacking on a late-night after-party with a "completely different and fun vibe" to maximize the joy.
Destination Events
According to Newman, "Destination events are king." Thanks to ramped up vaccination rates and loosening global restrictions, we're predicting a return to faraway-celebrations in the new year. Lea Stafford notes that her current clients are planning at least one of their nuptial parties on the water: "Whether it's a sailboat, catamaran, or yacht, being out on the water during sunset just sets a tone that is unmatched," she says. However, creating that destination environment, adds Newman, is possible whether you decide to physically host a far-flung wedding or not. "Couples unable to travel out of the country comfortably want to bring their destination of choice to the states," she says. "They want to take a blank space and completely transport themselves and their guests to another place and space in time. They are treating their loved ones to beautiful aesthetics, authentic cuisines, and awe-inspiring entertainment—it's a combination of creating a memorable experience that touches all the five basic senses. I don't see this trend slowing down any time soon."
3 Things a Destination Wedding Guest Should Never Do
Being a good guest is always appreciated, but especially so when the couple is planning an event far from home.
Who doesn't get excited when a destination wedding invitation arrives in their mailbox? It's the perfect excuse to plan that vacation you've been thinking about while also celebrating a couple you love. Before you start searching for flights and booking hotel rooms, there are a few destination wedding etiquette rules you should make sure you feel comfortable with. Here, Lindsay Logacre of LVL Weddings and Events talks about the appropriate protocol for destination wedding attendees.
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Don't Assume You're Getting a Plus-One
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Just because you're invited to the couple's far-flung ceremony and reception doesn't mean you'll get to invite a guest. While it's customary to extend an invitation with a plus-one, many couples plan to host a destination wedding in an effort to make their day more intimate. If they're really only looking to celebrate with their nearest and dearest, you may not actually get that plus-one that you thought you would. The same is true of your kids. "Given that we do a lot of destination weddings, I would say the biggest no-no we see is to assume you are getting a guest or that kids are invited," advises Logacre. "Read the invitation and details carefully so you are aware who is actually invited. Typically destination weddings are intimate gatherings so it is important to be sensitive to the couple's wishes when it comes to the guest list." Before you book flights, make sure everyone you're planning travel for is actually invited.
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Don't Nag the Couple About Accommodations Near the Wedding
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The couple will probably go through a great deal of trouble to ensure you understand where to fly in, stay, eat, and relax while in town for their destination wedding. That information is generally available on their wedding website or as an enclosure card in their invitations, so be sure to look for it before asking the couple personally. Remember that the bride and groom already have a lot to plan, and your vacation or what to do before or after the wedding is not on their to-do list.
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Don't Be a Last-Minute Planner
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It's pretty simple: If you can't go to the wedding, you can't go. Being a bad guest causes a ton of stress for the couple, their bridal party, and anyone else affiliated with the wedding. Most times, a final head count needs to be given to vendors ahead of time, and the couple needs to know if you're going to attend the wedding or not by the RSVP date on their invitations. If you realize you have a few extra vacation days or that you can afford to go after all, you're creating more work (and maybe even more expenses) for the bride and groom. Plan early.
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Expert-Approved Tips for Establishing Your Wedding's Color Palette
One wedding pro dishes on how to pick the hue that's right for your celebration.
There are many things to consider as you choose a color palette for your wedding, including the time of year, whether it's a daytime or evening event, and where your celebration is taking place. On top of that, you'll also want to think about which colors you and your fiancé love, as well as which hues help evoke the mood you want your guests to be in during the party. Still, the process of choosing a wedding color palette doesn't have to be complicated.
We talked to Kristy Rice of Momental Designs to find out the best way to establish your wedding's color palette (and pitfalls to avoid).
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What should couples keep in mind when choosing their wedding colors?
Rice says one of the biggest mistakes couples make when choosing their big-day color palette is attempting to be too literal. "A standout décor plan is about mood and experience, not a perfectly orchestrated use of matching colors," she explains. Her advice? Avoid being overly specific and commit to a color direction instead of a strict palette that must be followed. You'll get a more nuanced décor scheme and a more interesting design in the end.
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How should a couple plan a color palette around a season?
Be subtle. "Seasonal palettes can easily become cliché if not executed thoughtfully," Rice explains. "Surprise is one of the most powerful factors in design and can go a long way in ensuring your event is long remembered." Tying the knot during the winter? Instead of going with a green-and-red holiday palette or an icy blue snow-inspired palette, try to channel the vibe of an upscale ski resort. Soft fabrics, rich plaids, and comfortable furniture will help you bring that vision to life.
Simply put, says Rice, "Don't be so literal that nothing is left to the imagination."
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What are some common mistakes couples can avoid when choosing their wedding colors?
It's easy to go overboard when choosing a color palette, but Rice says you should avoid selecting too many hues. Instead, she suggests selecting just two focal colors and letting accents become established naturally. Rice also suggests carefully discussing color palette options with your wedding planner, should you be hiring one. Coming up with a solid plan early on makes future decisions—around everything from the stationery to the flowers—so much easier. "A strong color plan can help the planning process become even more efficient as time goes on," she explains.
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Do you have any tips for creating "wow factor" with a color palette?
Are you feeling adventurous? A color palette can evolve as event day unfolds. Never underestimate the wow factor that a chameleon color palette can have. You can start subtle during the ceremony and gradually get deeper and moodier throughout the evening. "Liken it to a standout song that starts subtle and continues to build in its variety of instruments, intensity and pace," Rice explains.
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Just remember to choose a color palette you love.
Don't let anyone push a color palette on you, no matter how elevated or beautiful they say it will be. In the end, the colors seen throughout your day should be ones you really love. "There are many things to take into consideration when deciding what your wedding's color palette will be, but the most important thing to keep in mind is whether or not you are happy with it," Rice says. "You will be looking at pictures from your wedding day for the rest of your life, make sure you are choosing colors because you truly like them, and not because they are trendy or what you think your wedding should look like."
Three Very Common Wedding-Day Emergencies You Should Prepare For
Plus, advice on remedying each situation.
In the lead up to your big day, you're bound to think of a dozen things that could go wrong. But instead of worrying about vendor no-shows or a ruined wedding dress, you'll want to prepare yourself for the more common nuptial-related mishaps. Bad weather, injuries or illness, and major traffic conditions are not only very common issues, but they're also problems that can be worked through if you have a dependable, pragmatic team working behind the scenes to save the day.
Bad Weather
The most common wedding-day challenge is when unexpected weather rolls in. Of course, you always want to have a backup plan for a rainy day, but it's equally important to have a backup plan for a day with unusually high temperatures. It's not uncommon for a very hot day to be the cause of actual emergencies, including guests (or even the bride or groom) fainting from heat exhaustion. You can easily prevent these kinds of situations by using your indoor venue alternative when needed and by providing guests and vendors with easy access to water and other non-alcoholic beverages. Plenty of shade umbrellas and lots of seating are important, too.
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An Injured or Ill Guest
Wedding planner Jeannette Tavares of Evoke Design and Creative has had guests suffer both stroke and injury during weddings she's planned. She says, "When a guest gets hurt, the entire room stops and you can feel the stress and worry in the room. Our job is to make sure the client and guests continue to celebrate, while our behind-the-scenes team is speaking to the doctors, going to the hospital, riding in the ambulance—you name it, we do it! Sometimes, you can't avoid these types of things from happening, so it's always smart to be prepared with extra staff and emergency numbers, even if you're doing a destination event. Preparation is key!"
Guests may fall ill before the wedding, too. Especially now, with COVID-19 front of mind, it's important to remind guests that last-minute cancellations due to illness are completely fine. Family and friends likely don't want to back out of their RSVP in the days leading up to your wedding, but keeping everyone else safe is paramount. It's easy to remove a chair from a table should a guest be too ill to attend.
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Serious Traffic Conditions
Serious traffic conditions can feel like an emergency, as the time constraints imposed can cause major delays to your wedding. Jeanette says, "We're located in the heart of Washington, DC, and we deal with lots of road closures, rallies, and monumental events on holiday weekends. We've [previously] stopped traffic for an entire wedding to go through Rolling Thunder, an event which had over 500,000 bike participants. This was not an easy task—no one is able to stop traffic for events like these. We made friends with local police and traffic controllers, and we were extremely clear about what needed to happen (and when) to see if they could work with us. It was a huge challenge, even in the pre-planning, and there was no telling if we would make it to the ceremony site." With the right team on board, it seems that even the impossible can be made possible.
5 Things You Should Never Serve at a Wedding
Don't make any of these mistakes.
Choosing your wedding menu typically means you'll take seasonality, local bounty, and how to please a large group into consideration. But there are a few things you'll want to be sure to avoid serving at a wedding. From high-octane cocktails to foods guests are unfamiliar with, we're taking you through the basics.
Anything the chef isn't comfortable cooking.
Most chefs will be honest about their limitations when planning a wedding menu, but some may over-promise and under-deliver. In order to avoid having false expectations, it's best to sit through a tasting with your caterer before signing off on the meals that will be served at your wedding. If you've asked them to make a customized dish for your cocktail hour or reception, this tasting is more important than you may realize.
Overly boozy cocktails.
Shots, shots, shots-no surprises here-are usually a bad idea at weddings. Prior to your reception, you may consider having a chat with the bar manager or catering team to ask that all booze be served with a mixer. Few wedding guests will ask for shots, but it's not uncommon for some people to request "extra strong" cocktails. To avoid a messy scene, it's best to talk with bartenders before the event about using a standard amount of alcohol in each drink.
Anything overpoweringly fragrant.
It often surprises couples when they walk into their wedding reception and find that the whole room smells strongly of food. A good way to avoid that happening on your big day is to stay away from menu options that are very fragrant. Food with a lot of garlic, onions, spices, and stinky cheeses can all overpower a room. Interactive cooking stations can pose a problem, too.
Weather-sensitive foods.
An all-buttercream wedding cake on a 90-degree day can quickly go from gorgeous to a melted disaster. Likewise, there are plenty of salads and veggies that wilt quickly if it's too cold. It's usually best to steer clear of incorporating weather-sensitive foods into the wedding menu. Cakes are particularly sensitive to temperature since they sit out on display for a while before being sliced, so it's a good idea to chat with your baker about the best options given the expected weather.
Options that won't appeal to most guests.
It's perfectly acceptable to get creative with your wedding menu, serving things like lamb and fish as entrées rather than chicken and steak. However, getting too experimental or forcing your own dietary style upon your guests isn't seen as good etiquette. Guests without dietary restrictions could feel intimidated by an all-vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free wedding menu. It's always good to have those options, especially if it's your way of life, but it's good etiquette to have some other, more approachable types of food that guests are comfortable with as well.
6 Wedding Menu Red Flags
Watch for these items in catering function packages.
Choosing a wedding menu is no small task, and if you don't have any previous experience working with the food industry or in event planning, it can be difficult to spot things that aren't quite right on a menu. That's where we come in. Here, we outline six red flags you'll want to look out for as you choose your big-day dishes. Trust us: It's best to spot them before you go to contract.
Way Too Many Options
Venues with high turnover and lots of weddings in one weekend tend to offer multi-page menus with a huge variety so they can cater to every type of couple. While it's great to have a selection, it's important to take into consideration whether this standardized style of service will work well for you and your wedding. If you prefer a more customized approach, it may be worth looking at another venue.
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Too Much Fusion Food
If your catering team specializes in fusion, that's awesome. Go with it. But, if you've hired a caterer and their menu has over 30 Italian dishes that alongside just as many Asian options followed by a list of Indian fare, chances are they won't be able to do all of these things well.
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Who Gets an Invitation to the Rehearsal Dinner?
Making the guest list for this pre-wedding party can be tricky.
If you're starting to plan your rehearsal dinner, then you've probably given at least some thought to the guest list. Some invites are easy-immediate family members and the bridal party are obvious attendees, but what about your bridesmaids' plus-ones? Or your brother's new girlfriend? Etiquette dictates that all out-of-town guests should be invited to this pre-wedding party, but what if more than half of your big-day attendees are traveling for the ceremony and reception? Crafting the guest list for this event can be almost as difficult as deciding who gets invited to the wedding! That's why we're sharing a few helpful tips that will help you determine exactly who should attend your rehearsal dinner.
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Here's who definitely gets an invite.
Your immediate families, the bridal party (including the parents of the flower girl and ring bearer, even if they're not in the wedding), any ceremony readers, and your officiant (plus his or her spouse, if married) should always be invited to the rehearsal dinner. Simply put: Anyone who will be at the wedding rehearsal should also be included in the celebration held after. Any married members of your bridal party should also be given the option of attending with his or her spouse.
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Here's who you might want to invite.
If space and budget allows, it's nice to give your entire bridal party the option of bringing a plus-one, even if they're not married or in a serious relationship. This ensures that everyone who is at the rehearsal dinner knows someone, and that any plus-ones who are traveling to attend the wedding have something to do the evening before the big event. You may also want to invite both of your extended families, including grandparents, aunts and uncles, and close cousins, since the rehearsal dinner is a good opportunity for your families to get to know each other.
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The truth about out-of-town guests.
If you're tying the knot in your hometown and have just a handful of out-of-town guests traveling for the big day, it's a thoughtful gesture to include them at this pre-wedding event. But if you're hosting a destination wedding, or else the majority of your guest list is traveling for the big day, you don't have to invite everyone to the rehearsal dinner-otherwise you'll end up with a party that's just as big as your wedding! Instead, consider organizing a welcome celebration (assuming your budget allows). Something as formal as a sit-down dinner or as low-key as cocktails at a nearby bar is perfect.
What not to do at a bridal shower
Follow these etiquette rules and the event will go off without a hitch.
Whether you're the maid of honor hosting the event or a guest on the invite list, bridal showers have their own unique set of etiquette expectations that everyone in attendance should be mindful of. The exciting pre-nuptial celebration is all about honoring the bride-to-be, and there are a few standards to meet to ensure the affair goes off without a hitch. If you want to brush up on how to be an exceptional attendee and a courteous host, we tapped the experts, who helped us compile a list of the top bridal shower etiquette mistakes to avoid.
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Hosts: Don't Invite Guests That Aren't Also Invited to the Wedding
Perhaps the number one etiquette rule, says etiquette expert, Lisa Mirza Grotts—also known as The Golden Rules Gal—is to only invite people to your shower who are also on your wedding guest list. Including friends and family in the pre-nuptial celebration—who aren't also invited to be part of the big day—implies that they're only welcome when they have a gift in hand.
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Hosts: Don't Forget to Mingle
Whether your guests drove five or 50 minutes to the venue, everyone in attendance should feel welcome at your bridal shower. As the host, an easy way to do so is to make your rounds when mingling, rather than sticking with a specific group. "You should be mingling with all the guests, making everyone feel comfortable and cared for," says Chanda Daniels of Chanda Daniels Planning & Design.
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Hosts: Don't Let Game Time Dominate the Shower
Typically, bridal showers have a set schedule that accounts for opening presents, eating, photos, and more. When setting up the itinerary, Daniels cautions hosts against setting aside too much time for games. "Know the guests and plan accordingly," she says. "There's nothing worse than planning lots of games and your guests are ready to do something else." She also says to skip games that will embarrass the guest of honor or make mothers and grandmothers feel out of place.
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Hosts: Don't Disregard Guests' Allergies
When planning the bridal shower menu, Daniels says to be mindful of guests' food allergies and serve options that everyone can enjoy. One easy way to keep track of attendees' intolerances is to ask them to share intolerances on the invitations; they can do so when they RSVP.
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Guests: Don't Post on Social Media Before the Bride-to-Be
We get it: The guest of honor just arrived looking radiant as ever and your first instinct is to share her with your followers. While you absolutely can share photos from the celebration, Grotts says not to "post before your host." Since this event is all about honoring the bride, it's important to give her first dibs at uploading the first batch of photos.
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Guests: Don't Deviate from the Gift Registry
While it may be tempting to pick up something thoughtful that honors your relationship with the woman of the hour, one of the overarching goals of a shower is to set a couple up for success in married life. For this reason, Daniels says guests should select presents strictly from the registry. "Honor that there was intentional time put into selecting gifts—this is not an easy task," she notes.
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Guests: Don't Eschew the Dress Code
Typically, bridal shower invitations will have some sort of note on dress code or imply a theme that you can dress towards. Michelle Norwood, principal designer and planner of Michelle Norwood Events, says, "If there is a dress code, don't go rogue." Show the woman of the hour how grateful you are to be included in her special day by showing up looking your best.
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Guests: Don't Bring an Uninvited Plus-One
Bridal showers—and many other nuptial celebrations, including the big day—have a set number of anticipated guests. That number dictates everything from seating arrangements to how much food and drink is served. When someone uninvited arrives, it can throw a wrench in the events' plans. According to Daniels, "Guests should never assume they can bring an additional guest without checking in with the host. It's an intimate event, which calls for an intimate guest list."
How Much Should You Spend on a Wedding Gift
We delve into the etiquette of wedding gift giving, so you don't have to worry about over- or under-spending.
When attending a wedding, most guests give the couple of honor a gift to celebrate their marriage. Although the tradition is long-standing, the question of how much to spend on a wedding gift often arises. Ultimately, purchasing an extremely expensive item isn't necessary, especially since most guests are already dishing out hundreds of dollars to attend the festivities. On the other hand, choosing something inexpensive can feel like a social faux pas. Ahead, we look at the etiquette of wedding gift giving to help you determine exactly how much to spend on a present.
Disregard the outdated "price per plate" guideline
In the past, wedding guests often determined the cost of their gift using the "price-per-plate" model, which involves guests guessing the amount the couple is set to spend on hosting them and purchasing something around the same price. This measurement, however, has become outdated since it can be difficult to assess how much a couple's wedding actually costs. Plus, not everyone throws a big wedding, and you wouldn't want to pick up a $15 gift for a friend who throws a low-key ceremony, would you?
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Consider your relationship with the couple
Various factors should be taken into account when determining how much to spend on a wedding gift, but the most important one to think about is your relationship with the couple. Naturally, close friends and relatives should plan to purchase more expensive gifts than coworkers and acquaintances. If you're bringing a date to the wedding, budget a little more for the wedding gift as a hospitality, since the future newlyweds are paying for him or her to attend the big day.
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Think about what you can afford to give
If you're struggling with finances, the couple won't expect you to shell out lots of money for their gift, even if you're a very close friend. Try to keep your budget to a minimum of $50; you'll still be able to find a thoughtful gift, and you hopefully won't need to pinch pennies afterward. Alternatively, you could put together something more personal, like a scrapbook or a handmade piece of art.
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Do you have a role in the wedding?
Another factor that influences how much you should spend on a wedding gift is your role in the celebration. Bridesmaids and groomsmen often pay high prices for attire, bachelor and bachelorette parties, and other prenuptial festivities. Since the wedding party already contributed lots of time and effort to the big day, they shouldn't need to purchase a $150 gift. Instead, they should consider pitching in for a single massive wedding gift—or stick to the $50 minimum rule. The same principle goes for wedding guests attending a destination wedding; these types of attendees typically pay top dollar for airfare and lodging.
How Many Colors Should Be in Your Wedding's Color Palette?
You'll want to strike the right balance.
There are dozens and dozens of colors to choose from when selecting your wedding color palette, which can make it tough to limit yourself. But here's the thing: Too many colors can make any palette seem disjointed—and too few can leave you without options when it comes to planning out your wedding details. There is a sweet spot, however, experts agree. As it turns out, the ideal wedding color palette is somewhere in the neighborhood of three to five colors.
"I would say that less is more, and even accent colors like metallics can be considered," says Valarie Falvey, owner and event planner of Kirkbrides in Cleveland, Ohio. "In my opinion, an ideal number would be three [colors], as it translates through on the focal elements and accent pieces, and allows you to create a beautiful, full overall look," the pro says.
Daulton Van Kuren, owner and creative director of The Refined Host in Buffalo, New York, agrees that three primary or neutral colors are a good base for any color palette, but adds that one to two accent colors can also be incorporated. However, both Falvey and Van Kuren agree that any more than five colors in a color palette is simply too many. "This can end up looking messy and uncoordinated," Falvey explains. Or, as Van Kuren puts it, "using more than five colors will start to complicate the overall look and will lead to a confusing and disjointed design, since you won't have enough of each color to apply to each element."
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To limit yourself to only five colors, Van Kuren recommends narrowing down your favorite hues, then weighing them against your venue and the season. "For example, at a winter wedding, you may shy away from very bright colors," she points out, "or if you are getting married in an all-white room, you may want to embrace bold tones to make a statement."
Falvey recommends you steer clear of uber-specific colors in your palette, too. "Don't try to work with one specific shade or swatch because this makes it very difficult to get exactly right and could set you up for disappointment," she warns. "It's best to be open to different shades of a hue as it adds more interest to the decor as well and isn't so matchy-matchy."
Van Kuren agrees about staying open when it comes to your color palette—and adds that being realistic can help you hone your hues. "Sharpening the color palette requires realistic expectations when it comes to researching the items that are actually available to you," she explains. "If your dream vision includes a red velvet lounge furniture in the bar room but you cannot find the pieces from local vendors within your budget, you may have to switch to black leather or navy velvet—which leads to adjusting your other colors in the palette."
6 Things guests should never wear to a wedding
Avoid being an accidental eyesore.
Choosing what to wear to a wedding can be downright taxing, especially with as dress codes become more and more unclear. Whether an invitation calls for formal, cocktail, festive, or casual attire, wedding guests should remember a few universal style rules to prevent fashion mishaps. Here are six things you should simply never wear to a wedding, no matter what the dress code says.
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Clothing outside of the dress code.
According to Julie Sabatino, a wedding fashion stylist at The Stylish Bride, "You show up to the wedding to honor the couple. Your appearance should reflect that." Make sure your ensemble is respectful and appropriate for the event. Take the extra effort to ensure you understand what you should and shouldn't wear to a particular ceremony. You don't want to be the girl in a long ball gown while everyone else sports a cocktail dress. If you can't figure out exactly what "beachy chic" or "festive casual" entails, reach out to a bridesmaid (not the bride) for help.
Anything loud and flashy.
One of the biggest rules of dressing for a wedding is to never outshine the bride and groom. Avoid sequined ball gowns, sparkly tiaras, sky-high platform heels, or other articles of clothing that will draw attention away from the bride. A wedding isn't the proper time to make a bold fashion statement.
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A white dress.
Unless you're the bride, wearing a white dress to a wedding is traditionally a faux pas. Leave all white, ivory, and champagne-hued shades alone, unless the invitation specifically requests that guests wear white. The bride deserves to stand out in her gown, and you don't want to upset her or other guests by wearing anything bridal-esque. Along those lines, Sabatino suggests finding out the color of the bridesmaids dresses and avoid wearing a similar shade, so you aren't mistaken for a member of the bridal party.
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Your everyday jeans and sneakers.
It doesn't matter if the dress code requests "casual" attire; jeans, T-Shirts, shorts, and sneakers are never appropriate to wear as a wedding guest. Show respect for the bride and groom by dressing formally. Sabatino suggests that men show up in a jacket and tie, even when the invitation says casual. "That is honoring the occasion in my mind," she says.
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Skip skimpy pieces.
"Never wear something with a lot of exposed skin," says Sabatino. Crop tops, dresses with mesh on the sides, short skirts, plunging necklines, and form-fitting gowns are more appropriate for a nightclub than a wedding. A skimpy outfit will attract negative attention from other guests and take attention away from the bride.
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Your most uncomfortable shoes.
"Think about what's appropriate for the setting and the venue," suggests Sabatino. If the wedding will take place on a natural landscape, consider ditching the heels for a pair of cute flats. There's no need to be in struggling with stiletto heels in grass all night, or go home early because of painful and insensible footwear.
If you're at a complete loss for an outfit, Sabatino suggests sticking with a long or short black dress. Find a piece with flattering cut, and dress it up for the occasion. "There's a way to make a black dress look good in the Hamptons, and a way to make it look good in a ballroom in NYC," says Sabatino.
When Should the Groom and His Groomsmen Pick Up Their Wedding Suits or Tuxedos?
A big-day stylist and event planner offer their take on an optimal timeline for this important wedding-related task.
Just like bridesmaids, groomsmen (and the groom, himself!) need to give proper thought to their big-day attire, since making sure a dapper tuxedo or suit is selected and tailored ahead of time is a key priority. However, actually determining when and how to pick up that suit can be tricky, since you need to factor in a few details, like lead time for alterations and departure schedules for destination events. To clue you into all those need-to-know details, we spoke to a big-day stylist and wedding planner. Below, you will find five helpful suggestions that will help you craft the best timeline.
Time the initial suit shopping process right.
Starting the suit and tuxedo shopping process on time facilitates on-schedule pick-up down the road. "Suits and tuxedos should usually be selected five months before the wedding after the bridesmaids have selected their own dresses," says Julie Sabatino, a bridal stylist and founder of The Stylish Bride.
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Try on everything before you leave the store.
"If you are renting a piece, the vendor will typically determine when the suit or tuxedo may be picked up," explains Isabel Rokeach, an event planner at Michelle Leo Events, noting that these rental companies will start with your wedding date (or the date you depart for your big-day locale, should you opt for a destination wedding) and work backwards to ensure you have everything you need in a timely matter. However, always try everything on before you leave the store to ensure everything fits as it should and that every item you rented is included in your order, she says.
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If you're buying a tuxedo, factor in alterations.
Are you or your groomsmen purchasing or custom-ordering suits or tuxedos, instead? If so, you need to pad your garments' creation-to-pick-up timeline with ample room for alterations, notes Rokeach. This requires gaining a clear understanding of the ordering process—and how long it will take for the un-altered ensemble to arrive in the store, she adds. Then, "speak with an alterations specialist and identify how much time is needed to make the final adjustments so everything fits like a glove," Rokeach continues. Once this timeframe has been identified, she suggests placing your order accordingly to receive everything ahead of the wedding (and avoid any rush fees); if you began the process at the recommended five-months-out point, aim for a pick-up date of one month before the wedding, which will allow for any last-minute tweaks if necessary.
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After you pick up the suits, tag them with the groom and groomsmen's names.
If big-day suits are being purchased, the groom and his guys are likely handling the process separately and bringing their attire to the big day. But if you are renting and are responsible for picking up a batch order? Clearly identifying each man's respective suit upon pick-up is key. "You'll definitely want to put name tags (or at least sticky notes) on your suits," Rokeach notes. Ultimately, this helps avoid any confusion about which suit belongs to which groomsman.
6 Things You Should Do Right After He/ She Proposes
Celebrate, for one!
Once you make your way down from the cloud you landed on after your partner proposed, you might think the next step is to dive straight into planning mode. While there's much to do when it comes to planning the big day, your job as a newly-engaged guy or gal is to press pause and enjoy this special time in your life. That's right, we're giving you permission to hold off the planning process for at least a few weeks (or months) so you can relish in this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Desperate for some kind of to-do list? Start with these six that let you enjoy, envision, and savor being engaged.
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Celebrate!
The proposal was probably one of the most exciting moments of your life to date, so why rush it away? Instead, you should celebrate-for as long as you feel is appropriate. "Too often nowadays the priority is to share the experience with the world, but just make sure you're really taking time to experience it for yourself," says Alison Laesser-Keck, event planner and designer at Alison & Bryan. Savor this magical time that only the two of you are involved in before you start spreading the news on social media.
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Tell your closest family and friends.
Of course, as soon as that ring slides on your finger, you're dying to tell those closest to you-and there's no reason you shouldn't! "This conversation, ideally had via a phone call or in person, will make a bigger impact on your loved ones than you may know," explains Lindsey Sachs, a wedding planner and owner of COLLECTIVE/by Sachs in Boulder, Colorado, and Minneapolis. "Your connections with close friends and family not only help you reconnect during this joyous milestone, but will also set the tone for your wedding." Once your besties and your close family are in the know, go ahead and share your exciting news with your larger community of friends and co-workers via social media.
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Get your ring resized and insured.
Chances are, this is the most prized and pricey piece of jewelry you now own. You want it to fit the right way and make sure that it's insured in the event it's lost, stolen, or something else happens to it. "Your engagement ring has a profound sentimental value that can't be replaced, but if it's ever lost, having good insurance coverage is a good idea," says Myriam Michel, owner and creative director of M&M Elite Events in Boston, Massachusetts. "Most jewelers where you purchased the ring should offer this in case it needs repairs or if you lose a gem, however, if you have homeowner's or renter's insurance it would be a good idea to add the ring to the policy (most have a jewelry rider)." Remember: You'll need to get the ring appraised by a certified gemologist before adding the ring to the policy.
Prepare yourself mentally.
Before you jump the gun and start Pinteresting like a mad woman, get your head in the right space, as the coming months of wedding planning are likely to be challenging, to say the least. "Marriage is a rite of passage, one of the oldest traditions in human culture, and even the most modern couple will feel the profound shift in their status from single to married," says Larissa Banting, President of Weddings Costa Rica and founder of The Lazy Bride. "Weddings also have an uncanny way of stirring up emotions in family and friends-i.e. the mom who subconsciously is resentful of her baby growing up or being replaced in her son's life by another woman." Buckle up, buttercup, as the ride is about to get bumpy! Preparing yourself for what will likely be an emotional rollercoaster of sorts will help you stay grounded and aware through some of the obstacles that might arise.
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Have a conversation about your dream wedding.
No, not just with your mom or the wedding planner, but with your significant other (who half of this day is about, too!). "It's imperative to be honest and incorporate both his and her vision into the wedding," says Slisha Kankariya, founder of Four Mine, an online jewelry retailer specializing in engagement rings. "Do the two of you want a beach wedding, or a rustic celebration in the fall? Traditional vows or nontraditional? Big guest list or small?" Now is the time to whittle down your options and talk them through. This might involve setting aside a week night to browse Pinterest or peruse a bridal magazine for inspiration.
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Enjoy being engaged.
It's easy to feel incredibly overwhelmed as the wedding-planning process takes its course. But do try your best to take your eyes away from the keyboard to enjoy this special time in your lives. "Many brides make the mistake of rushing through the engagement, anxious to be married, but being engaged is one of the most exciting times of your life and a time that you can't ever get back," says Jung Lee, founder and co-owner of Fête, an event production company in New York City. "After the proposal, make a point to spend some relaxing, one-on-one time with your partner and enjoy the fact that you're making this commitment to each other.
How to Pack the Perfect Carry-On for Your Honeymoon
We talked with experts who pack suitcases for a living.
We've all been there: You want to pack an incredibly utilitarian piece of carry-on luggage (and maybe even forego checked baggage all together), but you just can't figure out how to make it all fit. And when it comes to your honeymoon—whether it's a few days or a few weeks long—you want to make sure you're hitting the right style note every second of the trip, especially since these are the photos you'll look back on for years to come. To help make the process of packing your honeymoon carry-on a little less daunting, we consulted some luggage pros for their expert tips.
"No matter whether you are traveling for a week or a month, you need about the same amount of clothes-particularly if you are sticking to one climate," says Anne Howard of Honeytrek.com, which documents the so-called world's longest honeymoon she embarked on with husband Mike in 2012. "Resist the urge to over pack. Find your flair with extra fun jewelry, colorful scarves, and string bikinis—the style per square inch is unbeatable!" Josh Udashkin, founder of tech-savvy suitcase manufacturer Raden, suggests choosing the most versatile footwear possible (super hard, we know!). "Bring shoes that can transfer form daytime to night time," he says. "Shoes generally take up the most space in luggage so this is a great way to make room for other necessities."
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Surprisingly, what you choose to pack your clothes in is just as important as what you actually load into your luggage. "Opt for a soft frame with sturdy in-line skate wheels that nestle into the body of the suitcase for more durability and way more space-in length and outside pockets," Howard advises. There's also a technique to stuffing your things into a bag. You may have heard of rolling your clothes, but Howard chooses to employ multiple methods. "I take a combination approach," she says. "I roll the unfussy things like t-shirts, jeans, and shorts, creating little grab-and-go packages and making it easier to see the majority of my stuff at a glance. For the fancy pieces or those more prone to wrinkling, I lay them flat on top. For socks and undies I use a packing cube to reign them in for easy daily access." Udashkin, on the other hand, is a huge fan of rolling his clothing in what he calls "the inter-fold technique." He suggests: "Wrap all items around a core, like a dopp kit [men's soft toiletries case]. It helps to avoid creasing. Instead of having the dopp kit as a separate piece, you wrap all t-shirts, shirts and pants around it."
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Another great packing tip from our pros: "Pack your dopp kit in your carry on even if it means buying additional travel-sized toiletries. That way you can freshen up on the plane before you land," Udashkin says. If you're headed on a more adventurous journey, Howard suggests items like a collapsible water bottle, mini power strip, wearing your bulkiest items on the plane, and packing an in-flight pouch of necessities. Leave things like a floppy sun hat and tons of foreign cash at home-those are all things you can get while you're traveling (for cash, make sure yo have a debit card with minimal-to-no foreign withdrawal fees).
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And when it comes time to edit down your travel wardrobe, be prudent. "Lay out all your favorite things then pick the most durable, wrinkle-resistant, and versatile in the bunch," Howard says. "If you see you have multiple things in the same color, pick your favorite one—okay, two in black. Everything in your bag should be able to be worn at least twice, so leave that long brightly patterned dress at home."
3 Things to do with left over wedding cake
Assuming there are any leftovers, that is.
At the end of your wedding reception, the last thing you'll want to think about are details. In the same way that you'll have a plan in place for handing out tips, packing up cards and gifts, and clearing out décor, you'll want to think about what you'll do with any leftover wedding cake long before the big day. Assuming you've ordered properly, there shouldn't be much cake left at the end of the wedding, our experts agree; however, if you decided you wanted to save the top tier of your wedding or if fewer guests indulged in dessert than you anticipated, here's what you need to know.
Consider alternatives to saving the top tier.
Do couples still save the top tier of their wedding cake? That would depend on who you ask. Some wedding planners still embrace this tradition, and they'll help you work with your baker to order enough extra cake and provide instructions on wrapping the top tier at the end of the night. If you're doing this, it should be handed off to someone who can be responsible for getting it home and in the freezer as soon as possible.
There are alternatives, though. "Bakers nowadays offer a complimentary one-year anniversary cake!" says Misty Damico, owner and creative director of Luxe Event Productions. "This way it's as fresh as the wedding day was."
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See if local food banks or shelters can accept leftovers.
Your first instinct might be to donate leftover cake, and while it's a wonderful idea to give any excess meals or dessert to local food banks or shelters, it's generally consider to be a health code violation in most cities due to the amount of time food was sitting out at the reception; other locations may only accept food that has been sealed. But that doesn't mean you can't try. Be sure to inquire with a few local charities well before the wedding day, and if they will accept leftovers, make a plan for pickup or delivery.
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Send leftovers home with guests or vendors.
If you can't donate the leftovers, send guests home with any extra slices. Talk to your caterer and let them know that you want to box up extra cake; they should be able to recommend boxes or containers that'll fit the bill. It'll be a delicious late-night snack.
And don't forget about your vendors! It's common courtesy to offer them dessert during the reception itself, but since they may be too busy to enjoy a slice, consider sending them home with something sweet to enjoy once they're off the clock. Paired with a thoughtful note, this is a great way to express your gratitude.
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Talk to your baker beforehand to ensure you order the right amount of cake.
Want to avoid leftovers entirely? Communicate that fact to your baker. If you're nervous about having too much dessert, try to plan for one slice per guest. If you're also planning to serve additional desserts, like cookies, ice cream, or pie, you can generally assume guests will eat even less.