Tag, You're It - Flare

1. When I began planning my wedding, I was completely against having a veil. I didn’t believe in the traditional symbolism of the veil and was set against wearing one just because “all brides should wear a veil”. When I was buying my wedding dress, I changed my mind last minute and ordered the most beautiful, simple ivory veil, just in case of course. Now, I can’t even imagine my wedding day without my veil.
   


2. I cried at my Bridal Shower…let me explain: While browsing at a local antique store, my Aunt found an exact replica of my grandmother’s silver (my grandmother, an amazing woman, has been gone for over 15 years). Since her daughter, my cousin, was the recipient of that silver at her bridal shower, they decided to mix the two sets and randomly choose the pieces to complete each set. That way, both of us girls could share my grandmother’s silver. I was touched by the gesture, and moved by the memory of my grandmother, I enjoyed a good cry.
   


3. I decided against the tradition of choosing a Maid of Honor. I picked my three closest friends (one being my sister) and decided that they would all share the title of my most honored friends. My groom, following suite, did not choose a Best Man either. I believe there was some grumbling among a few, but in the end, everyone understood and supported our decision.
   


4. We decided to incorporate vows to our daughter during the ceremony, before our vow exchange. We presented her with an oval, silver locket, inscribed with a single initial. Since we had not told her she was going to be included in the ceremony (other than being a Jr. bridesmaid), she was so surprised and excited. We had so many compliments and most of our guests said that was their favorite part of the ceremony.
   


5. I actually wanted to elope rather than plan a big wedding. My husband is the one that wanted to have the whole big to do! Now, I am so happy that we had the wedding that we did. I definitely think I would have regretted all the experiences we had because we didn’t run away together.
   


6. I was up until 2am the night before writing my vows…talk about procrastination! I had planned on writing my vows in the weeks preceding the big day, but somehow I found more than plenty of tasks to fill up my time. We decided to read our vows together that night, in the quiet and peacefulness of our room…just the two of us. I am so happy we shared that moment. The next day was so busy, and happened so fast, I only vaguely remember our vow exchange.
   


7. My hairdresser was 45 min late the morning of my wedding…eek! Fortunately, I had prepared myself for just such a mishap. I couldn’t let myself become upset or distracted by (relatively) unimportant events on such an important day. When she finally arrived, she styled my hair perfectly. Although we were behind schedule for the rest of the day, and my anxiety level was a bit on the “high” side, we made it to the site only a few minutes behind schedule and started the wedding almost on time!
   


8. Several of our friends, my groom, and yours truly, got stuck in the elevator at our hotel the night of our wedding. I probably didn’t remain as calm as I could have, but I was not enjoying that moment in the least. I can truly say that I now understand the concept of panic. The elevator was reset and, after a short time, we arrived at the 1st floor... only mildly hysterical.

Photo courtesy of The Memory Journalists

Trend - Seating Pattern

Think of your seating cards as another way to bring your color or theme out. Make them to match a pattern you are using or tie them in with your theme. Adding a splash of your day's elements to your seating cards will be a nice touch.Trend provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of The Memory Journalists

Tip - Shed Some Light

Visit your venue during the time of day you plan to wed or hold your reception. You could be surprised at how different it looks during your special hour. There may be some lighting necessities that need to be addressed before the big day. Don't get left in the dark.

Tip provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of Sharpe Photographers

Beautiful Flower Girlies

I have two little nieces and I loved having them in my wedding! They were so cute in their fluffy dresses. When I was searching for dresses for them I wanted something sweet and simple with just the right poofiness. And I found the cutest, perfect little dresses for them.So tonight I went on the search for the perfect little flowergirl dresses. Oh the joy of pretend picking again! And here is what I found. The designer Johanna Grace has the most BEAUTIFUL flowergirl dresses. Just PRECIOUS. Of course these dresses are fabulous with a fabulous price but perhaps you could find a dress similiar at a better price!

Here are a few of my favorites:
Dresses listed clockwise, starting upper left: Saratoga, Jolie Fleurs, Madeline, Arabesque, Ladybug

Trend - Pomanders

Pomanders are a fun new twist to the bridesmaid bouquets. Rather than the same old stem tied bouquet for your girls, think of something different. Pomander balls are sweet and elegant tied with a satin ribbon for them to dangle from their wrists. Christmas wedding? Consider tying a wreath made from fragrant greenery for them to carry.

Trend provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of Allison Stahl Photography

Tip - Pack Early

Don’t wait till two days before the wedding to pack for that wonderful honeymoon. If you pack at least two weeks in advance it can insure you less worry and avoid that last minute rush. Also, don’t forget to have your passports and travel documents ready and in one spot so you don’t do the panic search for those very important things. Tip provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of Sharpe Photographers

Tip - Avoid Blistered Feet

Too many brides get blisters on their big day from their beautiful yet extremely uncomfortable shoes. Prevent blisters by using Band Aid Brand Active-Flex Blister Block Stick. Too late to prevent? Use Band Aid Brand Blister Bandages.

Tip provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of The Memory Journalists

Trend - Massages & Manscaping

While all of the women are getting hair, nails (the works) And being ooohed and awwwed over, the guys are too often left to get themselves into wedding mode. Think about arranging for a guys spa day. Massages for your man and all of his “men”. Cigars by the hotel pool, have their lunch delivered to them, a close shave, maybe even manicures (if they're up for it). Whatever you choose, remember to pamper him too.Trend provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of Sharpe Photographers

Real Dynamite Wedding - San Francisco

We had to share this elegant San Francisco wedding share by Allegro Photography.

May 2008

Location for getting ready: Four Seasons Hotel
Ceremony location: Temple Emanu-El
Reception location: Four Seasons Hotel
Bridal Attire: Amy Kuschel Bride
Planner: Mostly bride & groom, with help from Irina Leinova at Temple and Stacie Hallinan at hotel
Caterer: Four Seasons Hotel
Floral Design: Sandi Goldsmith Designs
DJ/Band: Mike Parent
Ceremony Musicians: Noam Eisen (piano) and Jory Fankuchen (violin)
Videographer: Joel Cook
Invitations and Printed Materials: invitesite.com

To see more real weddings and recent happenings with Allegro Photography, check out their blog.

Survey Says - What Was the Biggest Expense Of Your Wedding?

What was the biggest expense of your wedding? Would you say now it was worth it?

The venue we chose (Arden Hills Country Club) cost a lot, but they took care of so much (ceremony site, reception site, catering, bar, wedding coordinator, tiramisu). - Melanie, June 2007
The place we got married. It included every thing though so I believe it was worth it. (ie. Ceremony site, receptions site, dinner buffet, drinks, and an overnight stay for our wedding party including brunch and coffee the next morning). - Nona, married August 2007

The cocktail party before the wedding. I wasn't there, but the pictures are great so, yes, it was worth it. - Lauren, married May 2007
The biggest expense of our wedding was the photography (The Memory Journalists). It was definitely worth it! - Amanda, married October 2007
The biggest expense was the venue and the food. I do think it was worth it because the service was awesome, and it really set the tone for the kind of party we were hoping to have. I’m sure we could have had a nice wedding someplace cheaper, but I was very happy with our decision. - Julie, married September 2007

Photo courtesy of Sharpe Photographers

Ignite the Flame - Dance the Night Away

Women love a man who can dance...so if you didn't take dance lessons for your first dance at your wedding...why not make it a Friday date followed by dinner! You just might find that waltzing brings out a fiery woman just as easily as swaying those hips to a latin beat.

Photo courtesy of The Memory Journalists

Cloud Nine - If Girls Only Knew...Men Are Self-Conscious Too

If Girls Only Knew...
Men like to be complimented about their looks, just as much as women do. Make sure you let him know when a particular shirt brings out the color in his eyes. When you are getting ready to go out for a night on the town, make sure to tell him how hot he looks too. Just because it only took him 15 minutes, doesn't mean he doesn't care about his looks. Throw him a compliment or two and a few extra sweetie squeezes.

Photo courtesy of The Memory Journalists

Ask Marvin - Vexed By My Venue

Dear Marvin,
My wedding is in six weeks and our venue just closed and cleared out all their belongings before I even found out the doors were closing. We have already left a deposit with the staff to secure our date and menu choices. I have less than two months to find a new venue, pay for it and hopefully get my deposit back from the original venue. What should I do?

Vexed By My Venue

Dear Vexed,
This is a difficult situation, but with a quick call to action and determination, you can find another great venue. My first suggestion would be to find your original contract and attempt to contact the owners of the venue and get your deposit back. I would also ask if there's any sort of "inconvenience recourse" that they are offering. They may possibly help secure another venue, additional money returned, look into sister company venues as an alternative, help cover some form of wedding costs or services. While working on getting your deposit back, begin contacting venue alternatives, possibly with the help of someone in the industry. You can contact local associations, AFWPI (afwpi.com), NACE (sacramentonace.net) and local publications and send an email explaining your situation and asking for any information available. You will be amazed at the flood of response that you get from industry professionals wanting to help by offering assistance or contact information. If you continue to struggle with getting your deposit back, the final action would be small claims court. If you let us know what area you're planning your wedding in, we would be happy to get an email out to local vendors, publications, associations, etc. on your behalf and have them contact you.

Best wishes,
Marvin

Photo courtesy of Sharpe Photographers

Trend - Toss Out Bird Seed & Ring In Excitement

Who among us hasn’t tossed rice, or bird seed, blown bubbles, or even thrown rose petals? Well here’s news… Rice is out!! What’s in you ask? One word… Bells. Purchase tiny bells for your guests to ring for the new Mr. & Mrs. The sweet ringing will represent all of the wishes your guests have for you and no mess to clean up.Trend provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of Profinish Design

Tip - Ceremony Cassanova

Ladies, print this one up and conveniently leave it somewhere he will find it, or leave the window open on the computer screen.

Guys…when your girl arrives at the altar, greet her with an offering of a single flower. Maybe a perfect rose or her favorite bloom. Greeting her with a single flower is a touching gesture that will remind her why she chose you.

Tip provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of Sharpe Photographers

A 75-Year Old Wedding Dream

After 75 years of marriage, Mamerta Cabale, 90, got the chance to have her dream white wedding meeting 102-year-old husband, Sabas Cabale at the altar. The couple was married in a civil ceremony in the Philippines originally in 1933 when Mamerta, a 14-year-old convent girl eloped with Sabas, a chauffeur. Mamerta always wanted a church ceremony and to wear a flowing white gown down the altar. She was able to fulfill her dream on this amazing day at St. Aidan's church in Australia. She stood with her bridal bouquet and a striking smile next to Sabas as they said their vows.Her key to a lasting marriage: "Every day I tell him that I love him. When he was angry I just listen, then we go somewhere quiet where just the wind blows and I ask why he is angry. We talk and then it is all right."

How could we not share this story...it's amazing! Congratulations to Mamerta & Sabas Cabale!

Visit the Sydney Morning Herald online for the complete story.
Photo provided by the Sydney Morning Herald online.

Tip - Wedding Day Daycare

There are a few new companies out there that are focusing on kids at weddings. It’s called Event Day Care. They have people come to your wedding and “babysit” the children that attend. They bring toys, games, crafts for the kids. It is a nice break for your guests that don’t have a sitter or are coming in from out of town. One less worry for them and more time for them to enjoy your special day without worrying about the kids. They can pop in and check on their little attendants anytime they please.

Tip provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of Allison Stahl Photography

Trend - Kicking Up Classy

A punch of color- Give the tired old black and white a punch in a new direction. Now we’re not saying you have to ward off B&W completely, keep those elegant details but kick it into high gear be adding a punch of color- maybe yellow, hot pink, Kelly green, or turquoise. Any strong hue you add to B&W will be eye catching and really stand out. You can create this punch with florals, centerpieces, lighting, draping, decor details, linens, favors.

Trend provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of Sharpe Photographers

Trend - Mixing Up the Registry

Many soon-to-bes know what they want, but the problem is that their wish list is from 12 different stores. Well, Wishpot.com is a new wedding registry site that lets you add your wish list of items to a single registry! Grandma Donna doesn't have to go searching through the world wide web for 3 different registry sites to find the right gift for you; it's all here. There are also sample registries from those popular wedding blogs that we love so much. Trend provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of The Memory Journalists

Tip - Protect the Dress

Most brides know that they need to make sure their dress is pressed and perfectly clean before the big day. After the wedding, some brides forget about post-wedding cleaning and even preservation until much later. It's important to have your dress and your veil professionally cleaned and pressed before preservation. Red wine, white wine, champagne, lipstick, makeup, grass, all of these stain producers can become a permanent part of your gown and veil if not addressed soon after. Be sure to take your dress to your local professional after your honeymoon or possibly arrange for a family member to deliver it while you're away.

Tip provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of The Memory Journalists

For Richer, For Poorer? Who Says!

Usually we like to share exciting, uplifting, heartwarming stories about love, relationships and weddings...but, I just had to share this interesting story and get some feedback on it.

A bride-to-be, RoseMary Shell, who was dumped by her fiance with a note in the bathroom (reminds me of the Sex and the City episode with the sticky note from Burger...anyhow, I digress) has sued him for breaking his promise. “Primarily because he made a promise to me and I relied on that promise and gave up a lot of things because of that promise,” Shell explained. “And I suffered significantly for it,” she added. “I just felt like people shouldn’t be allowed to do people that way.” She was awarded $150,000 in a Georgia court!This was an on again, off again relationship that ended in a legal battle. He claims he got cold feet after learning of her excessive outstanding debts, while she claims that he was well aware of her financial state of affairs the whole time.

What will she do with her 2K engagement ring? Sell it. "It means nothing now," says RoseMary.

This couple seems preoccupied with money, him with her debt and now her with her "rightfully owed financial compensation". What is it that they say? For better, for worse; for richer, for poorer; in sickness and in health...".

Read the entire article at MSNBC . Vote now on the poll to the right. Should she have received $150,000 settlement?

Cartoon copyright CartoonStock.com.

Tip - Invite Guests To Know You

The very first impression your guests will get of your day will be the invitation. So put time and thought into it. Have it compliment your wedding but match your personalities at the same time. Maybe be a little creative with it, an untraditional size, a boxed envelope, recycled paper, fancy ribbons, pictures of you and your fiance? Be creative and give your guests a small peek into your styles, sharing an idea for what's in store.

Tip provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of The Memory Journalists

Trend - Unique Ceremony Entrance

Add your personal touch to your ceremony by walking up the isle to something that is unique to your style or pick a song that you both share to walk down the isle after being pronounced husband and wife. If there's not something special that you already have in mind but you like the idea, search songs online or ask others what they walked to. This could make the moment more intimate for you both rather than walking to the traditional wedding march.Trend provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of Sharpe Photographers

Tip - Shape Up

Exercise can have more benefits than just improving your physique. It will help give you the stamina that you need on your wedding day. If you do not already exercise regularly then you should start a fitness program 8-12 weeks prior to your wedding. Make sure it is something that will fit into your lifestyle so it does not become a chore. The best way to stay motivated is to enlist a buddy. Why not your Maid of Honor and/or your bridesmaids. It doesn’t have to be grueling, but just some daily cardio and weights to help you build up stamina and add some definition.

Tip provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of Allison Stahl Photography

Trend - Groom's Cake

Some brides opt to special order a cake just for their groom with design and decoration related to what their interest is. Since the bride's interest for the past year has been this wedding, why not create a personal cake for the groom with a golf theme or race cars, etc. He'll appreciate the personal touch and possibly enjoy his German chocolate, golf themed cake better than the raspberry filled wedding cake anyhow.Trend provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of The Memory Journalists

Tip - Don't Brush Your Teeth Aside Before Your Big Day

Thinking about straightening your teeth? Or even just whitening? Don't wait until a few months before your wedding to set an appointment for such things. The moment you are know are you getting married, consider visiting your local dentist or orthodontist to see what they can do to help make you smile larger on your big day! Also, if you have braces or plans to start them, make sure to talk to your orthodontist about the possibility of getting them off for your wedding day. Sometimes your treatment can take longer than expected, so ask your orthodontist about your options. Now, let's see those pearly whites!Tip provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of Sharpe Photographers

Trend - Mix Up Your Entrance

Ask your DJ to help you create a great mixed track for you and your wedding party to walk into the reception to. You can add a snippet of different songs that match each entering party's personality and may get a chuckle out of the guests and surprise the wedding party. If your maid of honor is obsessed with American Idol, have her walking out to the intro song from the show. There's so much fun you could have with this! Maybe you too appreciate the lyrics to "I Wear My Sunglasses At Night."Trend provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of The Memory Journalists

Hawaii Beach Weddings...Not Without A Permit

Planning a Hawaiian beach wedding ceremony? Not without a permit.

"The state will begin in August to enforce a requirement for vendors of beach weddings to obtain permits for each ceremony," according to Honolulu Star Bulletin. Residents near local beaches are complaining that ceremonies being held on the beaches are crowding their local roads and are inappropriate on their nearby beaches. Without statistics to determine if this a valid concern, the state cannot make a decision to cease all ceremonies. They need accurate data before making changes that could potentially affect Hawaii's tourism industry.The state Department of Land and Natural Resources will be charging 10 cents per square foot with a $20 per beach wedding minimum. Permit processing should take about a week and while vendors are voicing concerns that this may discourage those couples that can't wait for permit approval, the Department is not shifting.

It would seem that most people would know if they're planning to hold a beach ceremony more than one week before they even plan to visit Hawaii. Just make a plan to get all your business in order, including vendor permits. For those privates in the military who have a short leave and need a quick wedding ceremony (as mentioned in the Star), maybe the Department could be a little more accommodating and make an exception.

Read more at Honolulu Star Bulletin online.
Photo courtesy of The Memory Journalists

Trend - A Tisket, A Tasket, I Received A Care Basket

Couples are developing a trend of care baskets which include welcome baskets, wedding day baskets and recovery packages. Each is a huge hit and adds an element of personality to the wedding day.

Welcome baskets can include local trinkets, city maps with key visit spots, specialty items specific to the wedding day city (nuts, candy, flowers), coffee mugs.
Wedding Day Baskets should be personalized to share a little more about the bride and groom with each guest including maps with spots that are special to the couple, favorites items of the bride and groom (cookies, certain coffee, etc.), favorite scented candles, half bottle of wine/champagne you want to share, a mixed CD of your favorite songs.

Recovery packages are for those guests that can expect a fun filled, late evening including an eye mask, tea/coffee, pain reliever, water, snack foods, eye drops, etc.

You can modify and create these baskets in any way that tells about you as a couple. Try to leave a personalized note (if you have time). Guests will love the personal touch and your baskets' content won't go to waste.

Photo provided by GiftsForAllHolidays.com

Tip - Table Cards

Keep in mind your overall design concept when ordering table cards. Decide whether you need a tent table card or (if you are using holders) a panel table card. Size is an important factor - make sure the text/design is legible but does not overpower the table decor. Generally, I do not recommend cards larger than 5x7 - if you are having an exceptionally large reception (over 500 guests) a 6x9 card may be appropriate. Another thing to consider is making your reception table cards double sided - so that guests can see table names/numbers from every angle. Whatever you can do to allow guests to find their seats swiftly and without complication will enhance the overall flow of your reception.

Tip provided by Stephanie J Designs
Photo courtesy of The Memory Journalists

Florals by Blooms by Martha Andrews
Linens & table settings provided by Classic Party Rentals
Table cards created by Stephanie J Designs

Themes - Hawaiian Reception

Laurie and Eric married in January 2008 in Hawaii with about 25 or 30 close family and friends attending. They decided to throw a Sacramento reception for about 150 guests, the month following. They love great wine, fabulous food, travel and they especially enjoyed snorkeling. Laurie and Eric wanted to bring back some of the Hawaiian feel to Sacramento, so a wonderful tropical experience was created in the middle of downtown Sacramento at the Sterling Hotel. February 2008

Walls were uplighted in blues and a moving water pattern on the ceiling made it feel like everyone was “under the sea.” Guest tables were covered in an iridescent green/blue table linen, and the head table, positioned in the center of the room, was covered in a shimmery ivory linen.

The flowers were outstanding! The use of tall trumpet vases filled with crystal gel and fuchsia LED lights were topped with large monstera leaves, white orchids (with hanging clear crystals) and the bottom of the vase held a perfect fuchsia catelaya orchid. The stacked wedding cake was beautifully decorated with more orchids and sat atop a glass pedestal with floating orchids and white LEDs. Icing seashells encircled the layers; they were the same design as the wedding invitations. White sand, seashells and candles adorned all tables. Fresh leis were worn by the guests (flown in from the islands).

The buffet was a feast that included a whole roasted pig (this was the one main wish of Eric), and also teriyaki grilled chicken, fresh stir-fry vegetables, jumbo prawns, tropical rice pilaf, and even Chinese chicken salad served in “take-out boxes” with chopsticks!

A continuous playing loop of their wedding photos displayed on a flat-screen monitor, so everybody could see how beautiful their Hawaiian wedding was on the beaches of Oahu. Because the couple is into music and wanted a “rockin’ party,” the evening started off with a Polynesian drum group and two Tahitian dancers who thrilled the guests with several dances. The evening ended with a packed dance floor as guests were entertained by a 10 piece rock band. Laurie and Eric said their Hawaiian wedding was beautiful, but their Sacramento “Hawaiian” reception was the most fun they’ve ever had.

Coordinator: Lora Ward, A Day to Remember
Reception Photography: Sam Wood, Sharpe Photographers
Reception Videography; Phill Sheffield, Sheffield Multimedia
DJ/MC: Doug LaVine, Music on the Move
Flowers: Shannon Cosgrove-Rivas, Flourish
Band: Bust-A-Groove
Hawaiian Drummers & Dancers: Hula Halau 'O Ka 'Ano 'l Pua
Cake: Ettores
Rentals: Classic Party Rentals
Lighting: Sacramento Theatrical Lighting
Invitations: Pfeiffer Event Planning

Survey Says - What Did You Use To Track Your Budget?

What did you use to track your budget? Did you have a worksheet, planner or something on your computer?

I kept track of expenses myself with a notebook. I did not use anything on the computer or the internet. - Nona, married August 2007

We used an Excel worksheet that we created.
- Lauren, married May 2007

Yes. A friend of mine, who is an event coordinator, loaded a wedding planning program (Easy Wedding Planning) on my computer which allowed me to keep track of all expenditures.
- Amanda, married October 2007

I used an Excel spreadsheet. - Jennifer, married September 2007

We kept track of what were spending, but I found website worksheets to be grossly off base of what things really cost. It was very difficult to try to base a budget off the worksheets I found in books and on websites. - Julie, married September 2007

I tracked everything we spent on paper. My mom and I tracked each expense.
- Bree, married November 2007

Photo courtesy of Allison Stahl Photography

Ignite the Flame - Movie Night

Go to the local movie rental store and rent two movies... a total chick flick that has a sappy sweet ending, and then a shoot-em up bang-bang guy movie where things blow up for about 75% of the movie. Watch them together. He will love that you are willing to sit through the gore fest and you just might find that you like it :0) and what's better than you’re guy watching a love story with you. You may have to flip a coin to see whose movie goes in first.

Photo courtesy of The Memory Journalists

Cloud Nine - Sharing Responsibility

So you both work outside of the house. Does getting hitched mean you are now the "little lady" and you must do all of the cooking, cleaning, and laundry too?? No it does not. Work out a schedule that will work for the both of you. Maybe for the laundry, you do the clothes but the linens are his chore. How about you dust but he can vacuum? And the cooking, do it together, it will be a great time for you two to talk about your day. You will find that he might enjoy helping out around the house.Photo courtesy of The Memory Journalists

Ask Marvin - Candy Craving

Dear Marvin,
Some of my wedding Ideas are a little bit, "out of the box", untraditional if you will. I love all of the new trends out now and one of my favorites is the candy bar. All of the different types of candy that my soon to be hubby and I love. (Our first date was to the movies and so I feel candy is fitting.) The problem is that my mother and her sister think this idea is a bit juvenile. Even though my mom is helping to pay for some of our wedding I feel like it is still OUR wedding and I should have it how I want it. Should I honor my mother’s wishes and ditch the candy?

Craving CandyDear Craving Candy,
I have seen the trend of candy at recent weddings and I too, LOVE it!!!I think you should sit down with dear sweet mom and tell her how important it is to you to make your day special. Make sure she knows the connection between the candy and the first date. I'm sure after a heart to heart she will understand. Maybe show her examples from magazines or websites on how tasteful the candy bar can be done. No matter who foots the bill it is still your day and you only get one chance to make it exactly what you want.

Marvin

Flowers by Blooms by Martha Andrews
Table design and containers provided by Pfeiffer Event Planning & A Day to Remember
Rentals provided by Celebrations Party Rentals
Photo courtesy of Sarah Maren Photography

Trend - Bountiful Bubbly

Champagne is not just for the toast anymore! Many couples are integrating champagne into their beverage menu on their wedding day. Some are looking into champagne as a thrifty alternative (depending on the label) to hard alcohol, while others just prefer a little bubbly to make their day extra festive. Popular choices nowadays are Roses, fruit forward, and almond flavored champagne.

Also, check out a recent blog post from Elizabeth Bailey, a popular Maryland event coordinator, addressing a trend in Pink Champagnes.

Trend provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of Sharpe Photographers

Tip - Bridal Party Be Aware

As a member of the bridal party, keep in mind that although you're not the one reading your vows, you're in view of the photographer and guests. While one photographer may be capturing shots of the bride and groom, a secondary photographer may be capturing bridal party and guest reactions. Don't be caught with a frown, yawning or adjusting at the alter. Always be smiling or at least cognizant of your appearance.Tip provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of The Memory Journalists

Trend - Friday & Sunday Weddings

The non-Saturday wedding is becoming more and more popular. Having a Friday or Sunday wedding can have many benefits. You can get more for your money! A lot of vendors and banquet facilities are much more willing to negotiate on their prices, since it’s a bonus to book a day that could have left their facility empty. Savings in these areas can really add up making it easier for you to have the wedding of your dreams, without sacrificing quality. Many brides are worried that their out of town guests may not attend due to work, but most people will understand and recognize it’s your one day. You never know, they may be looking for an excuse to take a day off!

Trend provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of Allison Stahl Photography

Tip - Morning Prep Should Include Food & Water

Although it may sound silly saying "make sure your morning prep includes food and water," these are key ingredients that are usually forgotten in all the hustle of the morning of.

Be aware that many brides and grooms don’t get to enjoy their dinner at their reception so you should make sure you get something good and healthy to eat before the wedding, no matter how concerned you are about the dress fitting!!!

Now we know food may be the last thing on your mind. But it is very important that you start out your day with some healthy eats. Arrange to have a nice fruit platter in your hotel room where you and your girls will be getting ready, or have some sandwiches delivered(you can skip the bread but at least eat the contents, you’ll need your protein). Make sure you have something in your system because it is going to be a long (and wonderful) day and you will need plenty of energy so you can keep up with it.

Also, be sure to consume plenty of water the night before to stay hydrated and glowing. Watch your water intake before you walk down the aisle, to avoid the potty dance at the alter.

Tip provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of Sharpe Photographers

Trend - Texture Is Everywhere

Bringing texture to your day is the now. It’s everywhere. From Bridal gowns to napkins. In your linens it can come in many different styles. Damasks, crushed fabrics, embroidery, and pin tucks. It can be done in layers using sheer fabrics as overlays. You can add crystals to your centerpieces or use beaded candle sticks. You can add texture to your cake with fondants, fresh flowers, ribbon, etc. Texture is hot right now.

Trend provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of Allison Stahl Photography

Tip - Fitting Is More Than A Dress

Be sure to try on your undergarments with your dress with enough time to get new pieces if necessary. Don't be caught at the alter with an ill fitting garment that you're constantly adjusting. This goes for bridesmaids too.Tip provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of Sharpe Photographers

Trend - Unveiled

Veils tend to be a part of tradition for brides on their wedding day, but many brides are moving away from this tradition. There are many ways to incorporate your own style on your wedding day without veiling yourself. Beautiful live or silk flowers, jeweled pieces, a unique headband, pearled bobby pins, etc.

Trend provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of The Memory Journalists

Tip - Remember It's His Day Too

Most of us girls have been planning our special day since we were in grade school, dreaming about our dress, cake, and all of the small details. But most guys haven’t. That doesn’t mean that he doesn’t have an opinion. If he doesn’t volunteer his preferences, then ask him. Maybe he doesn’t know you want his help. Take him to the food and cake tasting; choose the wording of your invites together. If there is only one thing he really wants, why not give it to him? Let him be a part of the WHOLE wedding process. After all it is his day too, isn’t it?

Tip provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of Profinish Design

Dynamite Blogs - Junebug on Veils and Accessories

Bridal veils for traditional brides or jeweled hair accessories for the more modern bride; either way you can add your own elements of style. We are noticing more of a move away from the traditional bridal veil allowing for new trends in hair accessories, including jewels, headbands, ribbon, jeweled bobby pins, etc.

A blog that we follow, What Junebug Loves, recently guest blog posted on Wishpot.com about the options for veils vs. accessories. They shared some great photos and suggestions. Thanks for sharing Junebug!

Photo provided by Junebug Weddings

Trend - Sharing Cultures

So you and your hubby to be don't come from the same cultural background? Well why not incorporate some of your (and his) cultural wedding traditions into your big day? Whether it be the Jewish Glass Breaking, or the traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony. The family from the other side may find each culture very interesting and it is a great way to bring multicultural families together.

Trend provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of The Memory Journalists

Tip - Flower Girl Faux Pas

We all love cute little flower girls in their pretty dresses and don't forget the handsome ring bearers in their strapping tuxes. But take into consideration their shall we say unpredictable ways? Little ones, although very sweet, have an attention span that probably won't outlast the ceremony, so maybe think about that when naming them part of the wedding party.

Tip provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of Allison Stahl Photography

Bridesmaid Auction

I'm sure that many of you have heard this story recently, but I had to share. Kelly Gray, a bride-to-be in Virginia decided to auction off a position to be a bridesmaid in her 2009 wedding on eBay.Her plans weren't anything extravagant, but were proving to be too much for their combined annual salary of $32,000. She was spinning her wheels to come up with a way to raise money for her and fiance Karl's wedding day, when a friend suggested eBay. People have bid on some unique auctions on the site, why not a bridal position? The story received countrywide media attention and the winner is... the Dr. Pepper Snapple Group! That's right! They have decided to sponsor the wedding and will pick the bridesmaid or bridesman that will represent them.

For more info check out msnbc.com, where we found out about this 21st century Cinderella story or to visit the auction, check out eBay!

Photo courtesy of eBay.

Bridesmaid Blues

I know this is going to sound a bit odd…but nonetheless, it is the truth. I have the bridesmaid blues. Now, let me explain. Although I have been a bride, and loved everything (well, almost everything) that came along with that title, for some unknown reason I am feeling the urge to wear a new title: Bridesmaid. I have been a bridesmaid only one time in my life, and want to enjoy the experience again. Could it be that I have wedding fever, and since I have already enjoyed playing the role of bride to be, I am left trying to re-create that moment the only way I know how? Have I really moved into the world of full self absorption???Actually, I prefer to interpret my feelings in the following way: Now that I have planned my own wedding and learned all the “to do’s” and the “not to do’s”, I feel as though I have a lot to offer, especially to my dearest friends! Unfortunately, I don’t see any of my girls tying the knot anytime soon. So, in the meantime, I will perfect my wedding planning skills and repertoire of oh so valuable wedding information. Who knows….perhaps one of my girls will experience a whirlwind romance and end up planning a wedding sooner than I think! A girl can always dream…

Tip - Plan For Heat

Most fall and winter brides (maybe even spring) have a "backup" plan for outdoor ceremony just in case of rain. But for those summer brides, how about a backup plan for the heat wave. Maybe it's taking the ceremony indoors or making sure your guests have plenty of water to keep them hydrated. Provide them fans to help them keep cool. Remember in those summer months the temps can reach dangerous levels.

Tip provided by Dynamite Weddings
Photo courtesy of Sharpe Photographers