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Three Wedding Trends We Can All Agree On!

February 7, 2013 By Comments
bride and groom wedding cake topper

Photo courtesy of Bunches and Bits

Dresses, flowers and venues, oh my! With each and every new year comes an array of the latest and greatest wedding trends and must haves. And like with many things when it comes to weddings and trends no bride has to follows them all. This is the perfect chance for brides to learn about the newest trends, get inspired and then bring their own individuality and style to the table and incorporate what works best for them.

In today’s world a bride wants to be many things but predictable definitely does not fit the bill. Those in the know say that as long as that special day is tasteful then really anything goes. Having said that, when it comes to weddings and trends for 2013, there are lots and it seems it depends on your favorite source. Various professionals, magazines, surveys and wedding planners have some different thoughts and views on this topic. But there are some trends that all the experts agree on.

Wedding Trends  -Have the Wedding YOU Want!

Rumor has it the biggest trend of this year is to throw caution to the wind and actually have the wedding you want. Imagine that! Gone are the days when a wedding is all about the traditions and customs of the day. And now are meant to be all about the couple that are exchanging vows. When it comes to that happy day expect to see less about wedding rituals and more about the personality and individuality of the brides (and okay the grooms). It is no longer about what others have done and now all about what the couple of the day and customization; the invitations, the music, the venue, the flowers, the guest list, the food, etc.

Wedding Trends  – Relax, Retool and Refresh, Reception Lounges

This trend started in 2012 and has continued to grow; Reception Lounges really have become popular and are hitting it big this year. No matter the wedding style or whether your reception is being held outdoors or indoors a reception lounge provides the perfect escape, for guests, from all that wedding madness. It is also an ideal chance for guests to take it easy, socialize and grab a bite, in a laid back atmosphere. A reception lounge can easily be customized but really it’s up to the bride and groom to make it as warm and cozy, elegant and glitzy, friendly and cutting edge as they want.

Wedding Trends – Eating, Eating, Eating, Food Trucks

So many wedding experts agree about this next trend and how IN fashion it is this year. Whether you’re a foodie or not, something that started in the last couple of years and has become so in style this year is Food Trucks. Food trucks really are one of the more scrumptious fads. And if you can name a variety of food it looks like there is a food truck that covers it. From classy to down home; from comfort to cultural food; from finger food to pizza, the options are endless and more importantly delicious. After a night of mingling, dancing, drinking and pure wedding bliss what better way to cap it all off then a snack from a gourmet food truck. I can’t think of a better or more enjoyable way for your guests to call it a night.

Traditional or modern, customary or stylish, intimate or formal, the options are endless. And with so many wedding trends on board for 2013, some questionable and some unforgettable, it will be inspiring year to see what trends and ideas brides and grooms will incorporate into their wedding day.

 

 

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Weddings and Wedding Pictures – Say Cheese!

November 13, 2012 By Comments
beautiful bridal bouquet with white flowers

Photo courtesy of TarynMarie

Let’s face it; it takes a great deal of time, money and energy to plan weddings. When it comes to wedding planning there are so many crucial decisions to make and so many details to remember. The big ones include date, location, theme, dress, guest list, cake, what to serve and who to entertain and really the list does continue. At times remembering the bigger ticket items will cause the bridal couple to loose site of the smaller ones. Though I’m sure I’m not telling any bride or groom something they haven’t discovered themselves.

Picture taking is a very important part of the big day. If it’s been said once, it’s been said a million times, the wedding day is one of the most important and memorable days in a bridal couples life. As time passes, every married couple I know look back on this extra special day with the fondest of memories and will continue to look and re-look at their pictures for well a lifetime. Some say that wedding pictures are some of the most significant pictures taken ever.

Weddings and Wedding Pictures – Here Comes the Bride and Groom!

In a perfect world you only get one opportunity to seize that special day. Taking wedding pictures is one of the greatest ways to commemorate and externalize your first step as husband and wife and to remember one of the most extraordinary firsts as a married couple. So whether you go professional or you put someone near and dear in charge of the picture taking you want to be sure that all those details you toiled over are reflected in your pictures. To assist your photographer create a list of must have picture shots. In the end, by thinking this through and providing the list you will be happy you did.

By secretly placing a small camera inside the bride’s bouquet, Ben and Lyubov Horne of San Diego, took matters in to their own hands when it came to capturing their wedding day moments. They ensured the camera was recording during the entire event and they were able to record every single minute of their special wedding day. Now that’s taking things to the next level when it comes to wedding memories.

 

 

 

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Planning a Wedding: It’s All in the Details

August 21, 2012 By Comments
wedding centerpiece with mini daisys and table sign

Photo courtesy of Theweddingofmydreams

Okay, brace yourselves, but I LOVE everything involved in planning a wedding. Although not my area of expertise (I’m more about meetings and conferences) whenever a close friend or family member gets engaged, I tend to get that phone call. You know, the one that most planners are familiar with. The one that goes something like “I know you’re not a wedding planner but I was hoping you could help me out with a few things…”

And I’m always happy to. Planning is planning and although I’m not necessarily up on all things wedding, I am able to offer some ideas and help keep them organized. And though I’m not a wedding planner, I do know that at any event, it’s the little details that can make a big difference.

Planning a Wedding: Making Your Day Stand Out

For some, a traditional wedding is all they’ve ever dreamt of their entire lives. But so many brides (and grooms!) are looking to add unique touches that truly make the day their own.

For some it’s difficult to find the balance between doing something different and keeping in line with their families’ wishes. A lot of couples will go big and find that incredibly distinctive venue to make their day stand out. Others may do it through menu, bridal wear or invitations.

But what about the bride who wants something different without freaking out great-aunt Agatha or her ultra conservative in-laws? How can she make her day stand out while still being traditional? Shaking it up can be as easy as changing something as simple as table numbers.

Planning a Wedding: Getting Creative with Your Table Numbers

I hate going to a wedding and seeing those beautifully set tables with inspired wonderful floral arrangements…along with the standard silver stands and white cards with the boring black table numbers. It always looks out of place and frankly, just plain dull.

So consider doing something different with your table numbers. Just be sure to include a map of the room for your guests. Since the tables won’t be in any numerical sequence you have to ensure the tables are easy to find.

Destinations – For the well traveled couple, destinations are a great substitution! Instead of table numbers you can seat people at New York, Paris or London (or Cleveland, Kansas City or Orlando). You can include a couple of pictures of your trip as well as a short blurb about what you did and maybe a place or two that you would recommend. Not only is it a fun alternative to the old “Table 3” but it’s also a great conversation starter.

Hobbies – Injecting a little personality into your wedding is easy! If you have a hobby or passion that brought you closer together (movie buffs, voracious readers, art lovers, music fans) this is another great way of adding some individuality to the evening. Consider using your favorite authors, movie characters or bands. It’s not only a nice personal touch but can also be a fun ice breaker.

Professions – I went to a wedding recently where the bridal couple not only met while working for a florist, but have since opened their own shop together. So as a nod to both how they met and what they do, they used flowers instead of table numbers. But they also combined this with their wedding favor, a sachet of seeds for planting. They absolutely succeeded in adding that personal touch that makes a wedding special.

Everyone wants their wedding to be a reflection of who they are. And what better way of doing it than adding your own personal touches throughout the day. It’s easy, fun and for many guests who may not know each other, an entertaining ice breaker and conversation starter.

 

 

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Wedding Planning: It’s All About Uniqueness and Joy!

August 16, 2012 By Comments
two gold wedding bands

Photo courtesy of comedy_nose

I love event and wedding planning. Yes, it’s a love hate relationship but really what isn’t. I enjoy taking something from ground zero and turning it into something extraordinary, by using my knowledge, experience and people skills and applying them to create fabulous events. My most favorite part of the experience is the end when a happy client is beaming and makes my day by uttering two simple words … “thank you”. It really does make it all worthwhile. The majority of my job involves planning and executing events and meetings and when I am not thoroughly frustrated I totally appreciate and adore my job.

When I am able to and time permits I partner with local planners to help them on their event day with whatever is needed. It’s a great way to learn new things and see planning from someone else’s perspective. I especially enjoy doing this for weddings as it affords me the opportunity to learn more and more about this wonderful and happy industry. I was lucky this past weekend to be asked to help a wedding planner friend and of course jumped at the chance. When on site I was showed an amazingly creative wedding dance video. It featured a bridal couple that danced their way into the venue, yep you heard it right, literally danced themselves right into a lifetime of happiness. It’s a real can’t miss so I couldn’t resist sharing it and with thanks to the happy couple Jill and Kevin and YouTube, sit back and enjoy.

 

 

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Wedding Planning – We’re Talking Styling Wedding Cocktail Hour

July 17, 2012 By Comments

Wedding Planning – First Things First, A Little Proposal, A Big Yes and A Wedding Checklist

two glasses of champagne toasting

Photo courtesy of Viking_79

Two small but exciting words “wedding planning” that include so much more than one would imagine. Until of course that day is here.

Once the question is asked and the person on the receiving end has responded in the most positive way all that remains is the planning, wedding planning that is. And to say that’s an understatement is well an understatement.

When that special moment does arrive there isn’t a bride (and groom) amongst us that don’t imagine a picture perfect celebration. We all think it’s all about the thrill and beauty of the day. But realistically there is so much to consider and plan for. And really it does takes a lot of time, brain power, energy and help to plan that flawless (fingers crossed) wedding everyone dreams of.

While this blog is all about planning a specific part of your wedding and not wedding planning checklists, I cannot go any further without mentioning one thing. First and foremost, whether you have six months, two years or more until the big day, whether you decide to hire a wedding planner (always a good choice) or go it alone, a wedding checklist is your friend, probably your best friend. With so many great checklists available on line and via other resources, before you get started with all those wedding details, find a checklist that will work for you. Once that is taken care of, let the planning begin!

Wedding Planning – It’s All About Planning a Styling Wedding Cocktail Hour

When tackling wedding planning, normally, the cocktail hour is not the first stop on the checklist. But we at plananevent.org feel it can be one of the more significant parts of the experience. Frankly each and every wedding element is important depending on the lens you are looking through. However the cocktail hour is the perfect chance to showcase the bride and groom and their personality, likes and uniqueness. It’s a wonderful way for the bridal couple to add their special touches as guests visit and feel welcomed while satisfying their hunger pains. Simply said, the cocktail hour helps to set the mood and get your guests revved up for what’s just around the corner.

Wedding Planning – Some Tips to Enhancing a Wedding Cocktail Hour

Who amongst us doesn’t just love a cocktail hour? It’s a great opportunity to enjoy a delicious array of tasty drinks and food, with some enjoyable entertainment while visiting with old and new friends alike, the perfect start to any gala celebration but especially a wedding celebration. Here are some tips to help you get stated with those extra special touches for your wedding cocktail party.

Be Consistent – When looking at all the wedding cocktail hour possibilities keep in mind that your cocktail hour likes and preferences are in line with and match the general wedding theme.

Decorations Set the Tone – Following the ceremony, the first look your guests will get is the cocktail hour, providing you with the chance to present your wedding theme, style, design and colors.

Specialty, Signature Drinks – Call them what you like, specialty drinks are a big hit! When guests enter the cocktail hour space, greet them with a specialty drink. By doing this you ensure your guests feel welcome while at the same time you lessen the chance of long lines at the bar.

Food Glorious Food – Your guests will be hungry. So be sure to have lots and lots of delicious nibbles available. There are so many hot food trends and a cocktail hour is the perfect opportunity to be in vogue.

That’s Entertainment! – Music enhances every event and is a wonderful addition to any celebration. However, keep in mind, there are various forms of entertainment including caricatures, dancers, strolling magicians and more. Find what suits your theme and preferences and go with it.

The wedding day is be one of the most special and unforgettable times in a couples life. And will be remembered by all for a lifetime. The wedding cocktail hour is the perfect opportunity to set the stage for what’s to come. So let your wedding plans reveal your stylish, tasteful and oh so romantic side.

 

 

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Wedding Planning – In a Word or Two: Be Prepared!

June 28, 2012 By Comments
cute sock monkey bride and groom

Photo courtesy of Corinna A. Carlson

The big day has arrived. He proposed and you said yes and a rousing round of congratulations a waits! You are floating on cloud nine and you should be, but wait now the actual work begins. Let’s face it, most women (and some men) dream and plan for this most special day, the wedding day to arrive. It’s funny how some people long for this day; they start wishing and dreaming and planning for this time in life at a very early age. My sister just couldn’t wait; growing up it was all about the wedding literally all the time. I promise you by the time she was eighteen I (yes me) could rattle off so many of her wedding details; the venue, time of year, wedding size, wedding decor, dress, cake and even where she wanted to go on her honeymoon.

Wedding Planning –  Wishing and Dreaming and Planning….

Whether you are a person that has longed for the wedding day to arrive or not, lots goes into planning this extra special day. And when the time does finally get here it will speed by faster that you can say “supercalifragilisticexpialidocious”. The best way to have the day you dreamed of is as the boy scouts always say be prepared. The foundation to a great wedding is to be yourself, be realistic, budgeting, ask for advice, don’t be afraid to delegate and yes be prepared. It is never too soon for the wedding planning to begin and whether you are working with a wedding planner or spearheading all the details yourself, utilizing a wedding planning checklist will be a huge (HUGE) help. By writing down everything and tracking each and every single item, you will be sure to not miss any details.

Wedding Planning – Don’t Forget to Enjoy!

Once all those oh so important decisions have been made and the wedding planning and organizing has been completed that can mean only one thing -  the big day is here. So now is the time to relax, enjoy and have fun, right! I know what you’re thinking, so, so easy for me to say. Relax…no way is that possible! As we have blogged here many a time, with so much that goes into planning a wedding something is bound to go south (and not in a good way). No matter how many times things are checked and re-check you just never do know what the day will bring. So take a breath, don’t blow a casket and really once the wedding is here there isn’t much you can do about it. Even my sister with all her pre wishing and dreaming and planning had some hiccups, the venue was tardy in setting up and the band was late, to name just a few. But she had it in her mind that no matter what happened she was going to go with the flow, not stress out and had every intention to enjoy this time. And you know what she did exactly that.

Ready for a chuckle? Thanks to our friends at YouTube this video proves you really just never do know.

 

The take away is things most always never go as planned. So remember to enjoy this special day and bear in mind that a wedding is only one day but a marriage lasts a lifetime! So be sure to take it all in and have fun during this extra special moment of joy!

 

 

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Wedding Planning – Have Your Cake and Eat it Too!

June 17, 2011 By Comments
crooked wedding cake

Photo courtesy of Shelly Panzarella

I attended a wedding recently and I noticed that the wedding planning was done in the traditional style.  I couldn’t help notice that most of the people in the wedding party were not able to relax and enjoy themselves because they had their “roles” to perform.  That got me thinking, can wedding planning be done incorporating  the traditional offerings while at the same time alter people’s duties when it’s obvious they’re not comfortable performing outside of their comfort level.

Wedding Planning  – The Master of Ceremonies (“MC”)

Typically most wedding planning involves a MC whose job is to inform the guest of how the event will unfold, introduce the member of the wedding party and to provide some light stories of the bride and groom – all designed to entertain the guests while keeping the event on schedule.  If there are unforeseen delays or incidents, the MC’s role is to fill the gaps until the timing is back on schedule. Also by having a master of ceremonies the bride and groom are able to relax and enjoy the activities without having to worry about a schedule.

At the wedding I attended, while I have to give the MC credit for the light hearted moments which made us all laugh, it was obvious that this person was not comfortable speaking in front of 200 guests.

So unless there’s someone that is very good at talking to and entertaining a public audience, and that person actually wants to do this task, then why not look at alternates for the MC.  If the MC’s strength is organizational skills, keep their public speaking duties to a minimum and let them go with their strength.  Or if your wedding is smaller and more casual in nature, you can even consider not having a MC and inform the guests of the flow ahead of time.

Wedding Planning – The Speeches

Like the MC from the recent wedding that I was a guest – the speeches, while sincere, were painful to listen to.  Sitting there, I could feel the nervous energy from what seemed like an endless number of speakers.  Of course, I congratulated all of them on a superb job which seemed to please them.  But let’s not kid anyone, no one from this wedding would be going into a career in public speaking.  However, it was during these painful speeches that I realized I had an article in the making.  Why can’t wedding planning still capture the traditional elements without having to have a room full of visibly terrified people.

If it’s important to keep the speeches in the ceremony, consider some alternate ways for them to be done.  Once example would be to have the speeches pre-recorded.  Most people, including professionals, are more comfortable talking to a camera than a room full of people. Plus, you can do as many takes as necessary to get it right. The wedding planning committee or wedding planner can layout some guidelines ahead of time.  Make the speeches a theme, something that is near and dear to the bride and groom.

Wedding Planning -  Throw the Traditional Wedding Planning Checklist Out

The one things that often gets overlooked in wedding planning is the actual personalities or strengths of the wedding party.  A good planner will always want to meet the party and review everyone’s likes and dislikes.  There may be roles better suited for some of the party that wouldn’t work for the others.  There’s nothing wrong with switching the order of the speeches – or even who delivers them.  Things will come across more natural when tasks are assigned based on the personalities of the people involved.

Everyone pretty much knows how YouTube works today.  So why not incorporate it into your wedding planning. This is one way to keep traditional elements intact having to call upon your wedding party to perform outside of their comfort level.  It’s also a great way to incorporate a format for your out of town guests to participate in the big day.

A wedding is one of the most important and memorable day for the bride and groom – not to mention their families.  An important thing to remember when starting the wedding planning is to do it for you, not because you think it’s the right thing to do.  Why not make everyone relax and have fun – your wedding party and the rest of us attendees will thank you for it.

 

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Funny Birthday Surprise (comedy video) http://t.co/cd8d5vG9pD2 hours ago