Invitation Shots

With everything a bride has to remember on her wedding day, it is no surprise that bringing along a copy of her invitation isn't usually high on the priority list. But, it should be! That extra copy may not last forever, but having photos of it taken on your wedding day will.

And, why wouldn't you want to preserve that first piece of paper that started it all? Plus, while you have your photographer contracted to be with you and taking photos for you anyway, why not have them snap a few of your lovely little invite?

Still not convinced? Check out some of these beauties.

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Invitation Shots

With everything a bride has to remember on her wedding day, it is no surprise that bringing along a copy of her invitation isn't usually high on the priority list. But, it should be! That extra copy may not last forever, but having photos of it taken on your wedding day will.

And, why wouldn't you want to preserve that first piece of paper that started it all? Plus, while you have your photographer contracted to be with you and taking photos for you anyway, why not have them snap a few of your lovely little invite?

Still not convinced? Check out some of these beauties.

Source.

Source.

Source.

Dressing for the Season

Choosing bridesmaids’ dresses can be quite a challenge. With winter coming to an end and spring right around the corner, here are some tips to help you keep your bridal party looking and feeling season-appropriate!

Winter: Don’t make your bridesmaids suffer through a frigid night in a tea-length strapless cocktail dress! Try floor length dresses, adding a shawl, or heavier fabrics. Here are some popular winter wedding fabrics that will keep your loved ones feeling warm and comfortable when the temperature is low: Dupioni, Cashmere, Polyester, Faux Fur, Velvet, Velour, Brocade. Also, wearing hot pink on a dull winter night can look out of place. Popular winter colors include colors such as ivory, red, navy, orange, black and gold tones.

Spring: Even worse than having freezing cold bridesmaids is having sweaty hot bridesmaids. You should plan their attire accordingly so that they may feel comfortable and stay cool (especially in outdoor spring weddings!) Here are some lightweight fabrics for spring: Chiffon, Silk, Organza, Linen, Charmeuse, Crepe, Shantung. Spring is the perfect time to pick bright, fun colors. In an informal setting even some simple patterns can work and look super cute!

 

Winter Pictures: Winter Picture 1, Winter Picture 2, Winter Picture 3   Spring Pictures: Spring 1, Spring 2, Spring 3

Dressing for the Season

Choosing bridesmaids’ dresses can be quite a challenge. With winter coming to an end and spring right around the corner, here are some tips to help you keep your bridal party looking and feeling season-appropriate!

Winter: Don’t make your bridesmaids suffer through a frigid night in a tea-length strapless cocktail dress! Try floor length dresses, adding a shawl, or heavier fabrics. Here are some popular winter wedding fabrics that will keep your loved ones feeling warm and comfortable when the temperature is low: Dupioni, Cashmere, Polyester, Faux Fur, Velvet, Velour, Brocade. Also, wearing hot pink on a dull winter night can look out of place. Popular winter colors include colors such as ivory, red, navy, orange, black and gold tones.

Spring: Even worse than having freezing cold bridesmaids is having sweaty hot bridesmaids. You should plan their attire accordingly so that they may feel comfortable and stay cool (especially in outdoor spring weddings!) Here are some lightweight fabrics for spring: Chiffon, Silk, Organza, Linen, Charmeuse, Crepe, Shantung. Spring is the perfect time to pick bright, fun colors. In an informal setting even some simple patterns can work and look super cute!

 

Winter Pictures: Winter Picture 1, Winter Picture 2, Winter Picture 3   Spring Pictures: Spring 1, Spring 2, Spring 3

Something "Old"

A common trend we are seeing is brides using the word “vintage” when describing the specific feel and atmosphere they want to achieve for their wedding. We are wondering, however, do these flashback lovers mean “antique” or simply “retro?” Your wedding planners and event designers need details when helping you create the exact ambiance you want. Here are three ways to create a different vintage look that convey three completely different feelings.

Antique: To achieve the antique vintage feel for your wedding, think light pinks paired with cream and gold accents. Try adding antique wedding photographs of relatives around the reception or even as a center piece on a table. These brides love the classic look of romantic pearls or a passed down family locket. Think satin and lace for the bridal party and garden roses for the perfect bouquet.



Locket, Dress, Flowers, Pearls, Shoes, Invitations

True Vintage: Think contrasting black and white with a splash of red. These true vintage brides can be seen wearing feathered headbands, beaded necklaces, and a perfect touch of red lipstick. For inspiration, check out some 1920’s photographs or pick up a copy of The Great Gatsby. A vintage wedding is simple, bold, and timeless.



Bride, Invitations, Flowers, and Bride and Groom, Bridesmaid Dress, Shoes

Retro: The retro bride loves polka dots and oversized flowers. Expect a bold invitation in the mail and a sweet Frank Sinatra first dance. This couple loves to make a statement, and expect a classic, Grace Kelly-esque inspired fashion statement. Short dresses, fishnet headbands, and gloves are sure to be found at this wedding.



Bride, Magazine Cover, Cake, Flowers, Shoes



Thank you, Erinn for putting together such a great post for us! Great Job!!!

Something "Old"

A common trend we are seeing is brides using the word “vintage” when describing the specific feel and atmosphere they want to achieve for their wedding. We are wondering, however, do these flashback lovers mean “antique” or simply “retro?” Your wedding planners and event designers need details when helping you create the exact ambiance you want. Here are three ways to create a different vintage look that convey three completely different feelings.

Antique: To achieve the antique vintage feel for your wedding, think light pinks paired with cream and gold accents. Try adding antique wedding photographs of relatives around the reception or even as a center piece on a table. These brides love the classic look of romantic pearls or a passed down family locket. Think satin and lace for the bridal party and garden roses for the perfect bouquet.



Locket, Dress, Flowers, Pearls, Shoes, Invitations

True Vintage: Think contrasting black and white with a splash of red. These true vintage brides can be seen wearing feathered headbands, beaded necklaces, and a perfect touch of red lipstick. For inspiration, check out some 1920’s photographs or pick up a copy of The Great Gatsby. A vintage wedding is simple, bold, and timeless.



Bride, Invitations, Flowers, and Bride and Groom, Bridesmaid Dress, Shoes

Retro: The retro bride loves polka dots and oversized flowers. Expect a bold invitation in the mail and a sweet Frank Sinatra first dance. This couple loves to make a statement, and expect a classic, Grace Kelly-esque inspired fashion statement. Short dresses, fishnet headbands, and gloves are sure to be found at this wedding.



Bride, Magazine Cover, Cake, Flowers, Shoes



Thank you, Erinn for putting together such a great post for us! Great Job!!!

Budget Saver!

I know you hear over and over again, that the biggest way to safe money is to cut your guest list, but what if that just isn't an option for you?



Some people just can't cut the number of people. And I understand that!



But what if you cut the food - I mean, don't invite people and expect them to starve. But what are your options?



Southern Style:



What about a Tea and Cake Reception, or Champagne and Cake? If you plan your ceremony after 8PM, and note on your invitation, "Dessert Reception to Follow" you'd be in store for this:

and this: {Dressed up the Champage with different kinds of fruit}

cakes by Posh Pastry {for 2 Year Old birthday party}

Budget Saver!

I know you hear over and over again, that the biggest way to safe money is to cut your guest list, but what if that just isn't an option for you?



Some people just can't cut the number of people. And I understand that!



But what if you cut the food - I mean, don't invite people and expect them to starve. But what are your options?



Southern Style:



What about a Tea and Cake Reception, or Champagne and Cake? If you plan your ceremony after 8PM, and note on your invitation, "Dessert Reception to Follow" you'd be in store for this:

and this: {Dressed up the Champage with different kinds of fruit}

cakes by Posh Pastry {for 2 Year Old birthday party}

Real Simple!

About a month ago, I received an advance copy of Real Simple Magazine: Wedding. And I was instantly in love!



The Magazine has clean lines, and very limited advertising, the only ad's in the whole mag are Crate & Barrel! The magaizine is so helpful! There are flower planners with guides explaining which flowers are which - cake explainations, all is very easy to read and understand language.



Plus you don't have to sift through a gazillion and a half ad's - which I love!



The cake on the cover dorns lovely soft pale green fondant, and those gum paste barely open peonies! So prety right!



Some of my other fav's are:



Beautiful Bouquets!

More fun cakes: (used at table numbers and centerpieces)

Beautiful Table Settings:

Fun Out of Town Bags:

So, when you are at the store this week, don't delay, pick up a copy today!

Real Simple!

About a month ago, I received an advance copy of Real Simple Magazine: Wedding. And I was instantly in love!



The Magazine has clean lines, and very limited advertising, the only ad's in the whole mag are Crate & Barrel! The magaizine is so helpful! There are flower planners with guides explaining which flowers are which - cake explainations, all is very easy to read and understand language.



Plus you don't have to sift through a gazillion and a half ad's - which I love!



The cake on the cover dorns lovely soft pale green fondant, and those gum paste barely open peonies! So prety right!



Some of my other fav's are:



Beautiful Bouquets!

More fun cakes: (used at table numbers and centerpieces)

Beautiful Table Settings:

Fun Out of Town Bags:

So, when you are at the store this week, don't delay, pick up a copy today!

Seating Schmeating!

Soooo, do you do this?

 

 

 

 

Or this?

 

 

 

Why? What's the difference? Does it matter?

 

First you have to ask yourself a series of questions, and the answers will help you determine which to do, if at all.

• Are you serving a plated meal with various selections for your guests to choose from?


• If so, you might steer clear of the seating chart, because you'll need to distinqish their selections some how to the servers or catering staff.


• Do you have limited seating, or the exact number of tables you'll need for your guests?


• If so, you'll need to consider some kind of table chart or seating cards, because you're guests will usually leave a seat or two open at their tables and that can't happen if you are limited.


•  Are you only reserving a few tables for your guests?


• For instance, it's open seating, but you want to make sure your parents and grandparents sit closest to you - then you'll need to have a few reserved signs at those tables in advance.

These are by all means NOT all of the reasons, but it should give you some help while you are determing where and how you'll seat your guests.



seating chart



place cards

Seating Schmeating!

Soooo, do you do this?

 

 

 

 

Or this?

 

 

 

Why? What's the difference? Does it matter?

 

First you have to ask yourself a series of questions, and the answers will help you determine which to do, if at all.

• Are you serving a plated meal with various selections for your guests to choose from?


• If so, you might steer clear of the seating chart, because you'll need to distinqish their selections some how to the servers or catering staff.


• Do you have limited seating, or the exact number of tables you'll need for your guests?


• If so, you'll need to consider some kind of table chart or seating cards, because you're guests will usually leave a seat or two open at their tables and that can't happen if you are limited.


•  Are you only reserving a few tables for your guests?


• For instance, it's open seating, but you want to make sure your parents and grandparents sit closest to you - then you'll need to have a few reserved signs at those tables in advance.

These are by all means NOT all of the reasons, but it should give you some help while you are determing where and how you'll seat your guests.



seating chart



place cards

Drink it Up!

Brides are looking for ways to cut back, but don't want to look stingie or cheap while doing so - so do you NEED to have an open bar at your wedding, I mean a full-all-out open bar?



Why not just do beer and wine, do 3 different kinds of beer, and a White and Red wine - and one signature drink... that will limit what your guests can drink - and your can even come up with a fun name for your drink. You can color coordinate your drink to your colors, come up with a theme....or pre mix the drink so that your bar tender doesn't have to mix it individually.



We've also have done His and Her's for cocktails as well. So it'd be two signature drinks instead of just one...more variety and still super fun!



Photo Source

Drink it Up!

Brides are looking for ways to cut back, but don't want to look stingie or cheap while doing so - so do you NEED to have an open bar at your wedding, I mean a full-all-out open bar?



Why not just do beer and wine, do 3 different kinds of beer, and a White and Red wine - and one signature drink... that will limit what your guests can drink - and your can even come up with a fun name for your drink. You can color coordinate your drink to your colors, come up with a theme....or pre mix the drink so that your bar tender doesn't have to mix it individually.



We've also have done His and Her's for cocktails as well. So it'd be two signature drinks instead of just one...more variety and still super fun!



Photo Source

To Blush!

To Blusher or Not to Blusher - that is the question.



When I was at the Bridal Salon last weekend, I noticed that brides didn't know what certain terms meant...one being - a blusher.

The Blusher is the piece of the veil that you typically wear in front of your face, to keep evil spirits away. At least that is what they used to think it was for.

Now it's used as a tradition. You don't have to wear one, or a veil at all for that matter. But it's definately an option.

Most bride's take off the veil for the reception it gives you some fun flexibility with your hair too, up for the ceremony - down for the party!

To Blush!

To Blusher or Not to Blusher - that is the question.



When I was at the Bridal Salon last weekend, I noticed that brides didn't know what certain terms meant...one being - a blusher.

The Blusher is the piece of the veil that you typically wear in front of your face, to keep evil spirits away. At least that is what they used to think it was for.

Now it's used as a tradition. You don't have to wear one, or a veil at all for that matter. But it's definately an option.

Most bride's take off the veil for the reception it gives you some fun flexibility with your hair too, up for the ceremony - down for the party!

Jump!

If you live in Gainesville and feel you need to get a quick JumpStart on your planning - stop by Solutions Bridal tomorrow from Noon-5 for Free Wedding Advice!

No Strings...

Just come by, and chat with me, here's what we can do:

• Free Vendor Referrals


• Help with Timeline advice


• Advise on Financial Concerns


• Invitaiton Wording


• Any Wedding Problem you feel is weighing you down...

Get a JumpStart on your planning! Free!!!!

Jump!

If you live in Gainesville and feel you need to get a quick JumpStart on your planning - stop by Solutions Bridal tomorrow from Noon-5 for Free Wedding Advice!

No Strings...

Just come by, and chat with me, here's what we can do:

• Free Vendor Referrals


• Help with Timeline advice


• Advise on Financial Concerns


• Invitaiton Wording


• Any Wedding Problem you feel is weighing you down...

Get a JumpStart on your planning! Free!!!!

We are running late!

What happens if the weather gets in the way of your ceremony, and everyone is running late!



Don't worry, it's totally fine! I know you only have your DJ or Band for a certain amount of hours, and your photographer is going to leave in 6 hours. Don't stress, there are ways to fix your timeline in the midst of crisis.



Your ceremony is only going to take between 20 and 30 minutes. You don't want to rush the ceremony - this is the time you are actually getting married. But there are ways to move along your reception without seeming like you are forcing your family and friends out. And not make it feel as if you are rushing things along.



When you first arrive before dinner or  your meal, go ahead and do your first dance. Then eat for a bit, after you {the bride and groom} are done eating, mingle, greet your guests at their tables.



About 45 minutes later, go ahead and do the Father/Daughter Dances, and the Mother/Son dance. Open the dance floor for a bit, have some fun. Once your dancing slows, do the toasts, cake cutting and garter/bouquet... get all of the logistics out of the way, so that you can spend the rest of the night dancing and having a great time with your family and friends!



Photo Source

We are running late!

What happens if the weather gets in the way of your ceremony, and everyone is running late!



Don't worry, it's totally fine! I know you only have your DJ or Band for a certain amount of hours, and your photographer is going to leave in 6 hours. Don't stress, there are ways to fix your timeline in the midst of crisis.



Your ceremony is only going to take between 20 and 30 minutes. You don't want to rush the ceremony - this is the time you are actually getting married. But there are ways to move along your reception without seeming like you are forcing your family and friends out. And not make it feel as if you are rushing things along.



When you first arrive before dinner or  your meal, go ahead and do your first dance. Then eat for a bit, after you {the bride and groom} are done eating, mingle, greet your guests at their tables.



About 45 minutes later, go ahead and do the Father/Daughter Dances, and the Mother/Son dance. Open the dance floor for a bit, have some fun. Once your dancing slows, do the toasts, cake cutting and garter/bouquet... get all of the logistics out of the way, so that you can spend the rest of the night dancing and having a great time with your family and friends!



Photo Source