Modern couples often want to include their fur baby in their wedding, but doing so is more challenging than simply bringing your pet to the ceremony and reception. You must consider several factors to ensure your pet-friendly wedding is as joyous and stress-free as possible for everyone involved.
Choose the Best Role for Your Pet
Consider your pet’s personality and style to find a role for it in the wedding. If you have an especially active pet, you could let him greet visitors to use up some of his energy. A couch potato may be better suited to walking down the aisle with you to her favorite pillow so she can nap during the ceremony.
If you want your pet to wear a special outfit during the wedding, practice putting it on ahead of time. If you have a shy pet or reactive dog, think about other roles that may be less stressful for your companion. For example, your fur baby could star in your engagement photos or invitations.
Hire a Pet Sitter
Before you plan to bring your pet, check with the venue to see if it’s pet friendly. Make sure you know the rules at each venue about what’s expected of your pet. Once you’re sure you want to include your animal, hire a pet sitter for the day. You and your wedding party are going to be busy. Don’t rely on them to take care of your pet.
Give your pet time to get to know the sitter before the big day. Also, ask your venue if there is a space where your pet can rest if things get overwhelming, or make arrangements for your sitter to take your animal back to the hotel or your home.
Make Your Guests Aware Of Your Pet
If you’re planning on bringing your pet to the wedding, you should alert guests because many people have allergies. This gives guests a chance to prepare by taking allergy medicine or to decline the invitation. Also, you should note whether other pets are welcome at the wedding or not. Mention it ahead of time so there are no questions or surprises.
Talk to Your Vendors
Let your wedding photographer know your pet is part of your wedding party. This can help the photo team set up the right angles to get your pet in the pictures.
Talk to the florist about your bouquet and floral arrangements, which should not include plants that are poisonous to your pet. For example, lilies are very toxic to cats, and some are toxic to dogs.
If you think your dog will be at the reception, you should alert the band or DJ and tell your caterer that a dog will be on-site. Communication before the event will help things go much smoother.
Pack Supplies for the Big Day
You’ll want to make sure to have plenty of food, water and treats for your pet on your wedding day. Pack the pet’s food bowl and water dish to give him a sense of normalcy. Don’t forget to include a couple of favorite toys, plenty of waste bags and a pillow or dog bed. It might even be good to include a towel or puppy pads for accidents. And a lint roller for pet hair is an absolute must.
Having your best four-legged friend in your wedding party can make your day special, but you’ll want to practice with your pet beforehand. Let your pet get familiar with the space before the big day so he isn’t stressed out. Have a plan B in case things don’t go how you want, and you’ll still be able to have the wedding of your dreams.
Having a lot of friends can be both a blessing and a curse while you’re planning your wedding. The more people you want to have a role in the festivities, the more complicated it becomes to have a wedding party of a sensible size. One way around this is by ditching the idea of bridesmaids and groomsmen altogether. Instead, there are plenty of other ways to include your loved ones during the ceremony and reception. Consider these alternatives and discover useful ideas for giving everyone a part to play.
Ask for Assistance With Preliminary Events
Typically, members of the wedding party are responsible for planning preliminary gatherings like the engagement party and the bachelor or bachelorette parties. Even though you’re opting to forego the traditional wedding party, you can still ask your close friends and family members to help you with certain precursory affairs. You should remain mindful of the costs of planning, however. Offer to pay for the parties, and be sure to purchase small gifts as a way of showing your gratitude to those who dedicated time and effort to putting together these events.
Give Them Something To Read
Another great way to include your loved ones on your big day is by asking some of them to do readings during the ceremony. Whether you follow a traditional religious format or select texts that hold a special significance to your heart, this is a perfect way to show people you care about that you want them involved in your event. Be mindful of whether the people you ask are comfortable with public speaking. If certain people have a fear of talking in front of groups, it is best to find another task for them.
Have Friends Give Speeches
You can also ask friends and family to give speeches during the reception. Traditionally, the best man and maid of honor deliver toasts over the course of the festivities. If you aren’t having anyone fill these roles, then you can feel free to ask anyone you’d like to say a few words. The more people you ask to speak, the shorter you need to make the speeches. Guests tend to become restless when people talk for too long, so be sure to ask only people who you know will be able to deliver succinct and sentimental toasts.
Delegate Important Tasks
Throughout the course of your wedding, there are some tasks that need to be handled by individuals who are competent and trustworthy. If you want to make the people you care about feel included, consider asking them to take on these responsibilities. For example, you may need people to usher guests to their seats before the ceremony begins. You may also need a person or two to coordinate with the caterers and other vendors to ensure your big day follows a tight schedule. Asking responsible friends to fill these roles can offer you peace of mind.
Include Your Friends in Photos
Finally, consider including specific loved ones in your wedding photos as a way of making them feel involved. However, don’t wait until the last minute to make this decision. Inform all of the people you want in your photos of your plan before the big day arrives. This is important because you don’t want people to wander off or get too drunk before you have the opportunity to get them in a picture. It can also be helpful to give a list of names to the photographer so that he or she can ensure everyone is present.
Though it might be traditional, there is no rule stating you must have a wedding party. If you still want your loved ones to feel included, there are plenty of alternatives that will make them feel special on your big day.
Sustainable weddings have been on trend for years. Weddings can be extravagant affairs with a lot of waste, but with a little forethought, an eco-friendly event is more attainable. Making your wedding green not only reduces your impact on the environment, but it also reduces the impact on your budget. Have a mantra of reduce, reuse and recycle for your upcoming wedding by starting with these tips.
Look for a Green Venue
Today’s hotels and event venues have many ways to reduce their carbon footprint, from using solar panels to composting on-site. Look for venues that have multiple sustainable initiatives in place that support green operations. Some buildings get certified through federal or state programs to indicate their commitment to sustainability. Under the Canada Green Building Council, hotels can be audited to receive a green key rating of one to five to demonstrate their current environmental efforts. Holding your wedding in a green environment and housing your guests in green hotels can make a big difference in your own environmental impact.
Sustainable Ways For Wedding Attire
Fashion has a huge impact on the environment. Creating dresses and tuxes that might only be worn once or twice takes a lot of resources. Instead of buying new, rent or buy a used wedding gown and bridesmaids dresses. If you do buy new items, look for sustainable fashion that is made of recycled or sustainable materials and made in ethical working conditions. Check for social responsibility statements by the corporate office. Shop locally or use brands that limit packaging.
Reuse or Rent Décor
Decorations and flowers are items that can end up in landfills after the wedding. Talk to the wedding venue about wedding decorations that you can reuse or rent. Shop locally for reused decorations on social media or in second-hand stores. Ask your friends to reuse their wedding decorations. Even if your colors aren’t the same, the greenery and glass vases will fit into any color scheme. Plan to offer your own wedding decorations to others after your wedding.
Create a Sustainable Wedding Gift Registry
Register with stores that are eco-friendly and sell items made from recycled materials, are Fair Trade Certified or made locally. You may also want to give guests an option to help give money toward your honeymoon or another large purchase. Some couples even ask guests to give to charity instead of giving a gift, especially when the couple already has everything they need in their home.
Sustainable Menu Items
The menu is another place where planning ahead can make your wedding more sustainable. Start by thinking about seasonal foods for the wedding. Anything that can be sourced locally is usually a better choice for the environment. Serving local wines and delicacies also supports your community. Plant-based menus are also more eco-friendly and usually less expensive than serving seafood and meats.
Ask your caterer about their own process to reduce waste. Rent dishes and flatware for serving. Although those items will need to be washed, it will keep a lot of waste out of landfills. Instead of a buffet, choose a plated dinner. Buffets require a lot of extra food for serving, which often goes to waste.
Make Small Changes To Your Wedding
Before buying items for your wedding, think about the impact on the environment. Candles and balloons might be traditional decorations, but both are not sustainable. Balloons just get tossed into a landfill after the wedding. Candles made of paraffin wax, which is a petroleum product, are not eco-friendly. Printed invitations use a lot of paper. Find eco-friendly options instead.
Think of ways you can be more sustainable on your special day to really enjoy your wedding, knowing that you’re not a burden to the environment.
As the wedding couple, you will probably be very busy through the ceremony and reception not thinking about entertainment. Your guests may have a completely different experience, from waiting for the caterer to serve dinner after the cocktail hour to waiting for the DJ to start the dancing. Hosting entertainment for those moments can make your guests remember your wedding fondly. Here are some of the best ideas to keep guests busy during the reception.
Hire a Petting Zoo
Even if you have a kids-free wedding, adults will enjoy getting to pet and watch animals in a petting zoo. Some petting zoos have a unique array of animals, hedgehogs, bunnies, ducks, alpacas, goats and more. The staff who come with the zoo will provide information and manage the creatures, so it’s educational and fun without a lot of extra work for anyone. Check with your venue to make sure it’s okay to have animals on site.
Table Games As Entertainment
Buy some travel games or decks of cards to place on the table to give guests something easy to do between courses or during speeches. Practically everyone remembers the classics, like checkers, backgammon or crazy eights, so you won’t need to provide instructions. Personalize the decks of cards with your photos and let guests take them home as a reminder of the wedding.
A Photo Scavenger Hunt
Give guests a list of ideas for pictures to take with their own phone or with a disposable camera. Make up two or three sets of lists so everyone at the same table has a different list. Ask them to post to social media with a unique wedding hashtag to make these photos easy to find. You’ll see much more of the reception through a different lens and get some great memories that your photographer might miss.
Hire Unique Entertainers
Your community probably has a lot of entertainers who would spend a couple of hours providing entertainment for a crowd. Think beyond musicians or circus-style performers. Hire a caricaturist, a magician or a balloon animal artist for the cocktail party in addition to any band or other entertainment. If you’ve ever been to a Renaissance faire, think about the street performers that kept you entertained while you walked around, the dancers, the bird of prey showcase or the comedians.
Set Up a Miniature Golf Course
Check with your local bounce house rental to see what kinds of games they offer. If your venue has space for a mini golf course or croquet, those kinds of games can keep old and young guests entertained for a while without wearing them out in the heat of the day. You may find some other neat game ideas as some party places rent casino games or carnival games that will keep guests busy instead of twiddling their thumbs.
Coloring Books or Advice Pages For Entertainment
On each table, place some crayons and coloring books. Adults and children alike often enjoy having something to keep their hands busy that is not mentally challenging. Give guests an opportunity to leave you a piece of wisdom or advice for your marriage by leaving special cards on the table.
Family and Guest Trivia Entertainment
Get guests to talk to each other by leaving cards with clues to information about each other at the table. Kind of like a “Guess Who” game. Or leave clues about the wedding party to see if guests can guess which person in the family can play the harmonica or some other unique attribute. You might even ask who is the oldest at the wedding or who traveled the farthest. Make sure to provide answers through the evening to see who got it right.
Give your guests a reason to enjoy your wedding by keeping them entertained throughout the day or evening.
We all know how crucial an Invitation can be, Informing your guests of your wedding is one of the biggest tasks on your plate. While you might feel excited to get this started from the moment you announce your engagement, it is best to make sure you put in proper research before you begin. Invites typically come in what is known as a “suite.” Unlike invites to a birthday party, which require little more than card and envelope, there are a few key elements involved with the suite. Review this breakdown and feel ready to tackle this important wedding task.
The Preliminary Stepof The Invitation
Before you even get to the suite itself, there is a very important preliminary step you must address. The save-the-date cards are the first point of contact you will have with most of your guests. This card provides your friends and family members with the general notice of your wedding and the date you have selected. While you can include other details if you so desire, this early stage is only meant to provide a notice to your guests so they can plan accordingly. This isn’t part of the suite, but it is definitely crucial.
The Main Event
The suite itself is composed of several parts. The centerpiece is the main invitation. This is the item that includes all of the most important details of your event. The verbiage and exact phrasings you select will come down to what you feel comfortable with, but there are some templates online you can use to get started. Be sure to include your full names, the date and time of the event, and the exact address of the venue. You don’t want to crowd the paper, so limit yourself to these key points.
It is important to note that some customs suggest putting in the names of the people who are paying for the event. If your parents are helping to cover the costs of your big day, you would introduce the invitation with language suggesting they are the ones welcoming the guests. This is not as commonplace as it once was, however, and can be left to your own discretion.
The InvitationWith AResponse Card
While informing guests of your big day is important, it is equally as crucial to include the response card. This is a small item included along with the other stationery in the suite. The card is included to allow guests a convenient way of replying to the invitation. Typically, the card is very small and is placed within an envelope that has been addressed and stamped. You don’t need to include postage, but it increases the odds your guests will place the cards right in the mail and you can get a headcount.
The Excess
The final piece of the suite is the “details” card. In reality, this can be a single card or multiple pieces of paper. The point is to include the information that cannot fit on the main card or doesn’t belong elsewhere. For example, if you need to give directions to guests, this is the place to provide that info. The details you can include here will range from the answers to commonplace questions, contact info that might be essential, information related to booking local hotel rooms, and so on.
The Rest
Finally, there are lots of little flourishes you can include in the invitation suite to give it a bit more personality. While you don’t want to over stuff the envelope, couples will include decorative elements that don’t take up much space and help to tie the invites into the overall aesthetic of the event.
An invitation suite is an important part of your big day. Create a list to make sure you hit every point discussed here and tackle this task with ease.
There’s one word that seems to pop up around every corner, from the automobile industry to luxury travel and from housing prices to fast food. Inflation has made an impact across every economic sector in Canada, including in the wedding industry. During the pandemic, many people put their plans for getting married on hold, and as soon as the government eased lockdown restrictions, people rushed to catch up on missed opportunities and plans. For couples wanting to throw the wedding of their dreams, inflation has pushed prices higher than ever before. Here’s how the inflation problem in Canada is inspiring new wedding trends.
Cost of Inflation
At first glance, inflation doesn’t look complicated, but investigating the how and why reveals an important web of factors that created the perfect storm for today’s price increases. Inflation in and of itself is not a bad thing, and it isn’t unnatural. Over time, the costs of goods and services increase, and wages must rise to keep up pace. The issue is that the unique context that the COVID-19 pandemic created gave rise to a level of inflation that should have happened slowly over many years.
During the pandemic, the demand for certain commodities fell while for others, it shot up. Along with this imbalance in the demand for goods and services, supply chains screeched to a halt due to global lockdown restrictions. Since those restrictions weren’t natural but governmentally imposed, as soon as governments changed their minds, supply chains had to race forward to catch up.
There has been a shortage of labor as well, for the same reason. Businesses eventually pass these pain points down to consumers in the form of higher prices. In the post-pandemic economy, Canadians are desperate to regain a sense of normalcy, but to achieve that, they have to decide how much they’re willing to pay for what they want.
Top Wedding Costs for Couples
It’s no secret that weddings are expensive, as there are several high costs that couples have to face when preparing to get married. Inflation has only made this problem worse. The areas that hit couples hard are:
Rentals
Venues
Catering
Flowers
Decorations
Planning services
Airfare and travel
Fuel costs
In past years, the average cost of a wedding hovered around $30,000. With inflation and the cost of labor skyrocketing, that price tag could easily hit $50,000 in the next five years if things don’t change. Canada’s central bank has been hitting back by increasing interest rates, but the trickle-down effect might take a while to reach the wedding industry.
New Solutions and Trends To Limit Cost
The high cost of putting together a wedding is inspiring couples to get creative and embrace new solutions and trends. To start, many couples are deciding against overseas destination weddings. Those who still want a change of scenery are embracing what Canada has to offer and choosing stunning natural backdrops within the country, such as local beaches, mountains, and more.
Another solution for couples is the concept of having a non-traditional wedding. While some people still want to get married in a church, there are so many more options available for people who aren’t worried about maintaining the religious aspect. From walking down the aisle through rows of books at a gorgeous public library to having a reception at a local brewery, engaged couples are really pulling out all the stops to save money. Other cost-saving wedding trends are:
Weekday ceremonies
Potluck reception meals
Upcycled wedding decorations
Semi-formal wedding attire
Wedding vendors are struggling during this busy boom period, but it’s consumers who are hit hardest by inflation. Fortunately, obstacles make people more creative than ever before, which is exactly what is happening for couples planning their wedding events.
A dear friend is preparing to tie the knot and has asked you to be an usher for the wedding. You may or may not have been to past weddings where there were ushers. You might think you know what you’re to do, having attended a church service before. But maybe you still have questions. Do you perform the same duties as a doorperson for a funeral or some other ceremony? What is the expected commitment level? Are you just a second-tier bridesmaid or groomsman? Here are some things to know about being an usher.
Usher Taking It Seriously
First, you should recognize that serving as an usher is serious business. It’s not an afterthought role casually asked of you by the happy couple. Your friend or family member wants to honor your relationship and has asked you to be a formal participant in this momentous occasion. You provide support to the couple and help relieve some of the pressure by performing your role. Acknowledge the privilege of being asked to serve, and let your loved one know if you’re able to participate as soon as possible.
Understanding Your Duties
After you’ve accepted your role as an usher, you’ll need to know what’s expected of you. You should ask your friends or a wedding planner about your duties, other details such as attire, and other obligations for the big day and surrounding events. Typically, these attendants are responsible for the following:
Greeting Guests: You will likely be the first person many wedding attendees see. Your attitude and how you present yourself can set the tone, so be friendly and look sharp.
Escorting Attendees: Ushers are almost always responsible for escorting people to their seats. You’ll need to know if people are supposed to sit on a certain side of the aisle. You may be asked to escort some very important people to reserved seating, like parents or grandparents of the spouses-to-be. Be mindful that some guests move at a slower pace or need extra support in finding their seat.
Passing Out Programs: While some ceremonies have programs available outside for guests to take, you may be responsible for handing these out when people enter the venue. Pay special attention here, as there might only be one program per group instead of per person.
Opening Doors: Sometimes ushers are expected to open and close the doors to the chapel, hall, or sanctuary at various parts of the ceremony, especially for a bride’s processional and recessional.
Depending on the details, you may be asked to seat late arrivals, direct people to an overflow room or assist with parking. For other events such as the rehearsal dinner or reception, there may be additional duties according to the needs or wants of the couple.
Dressing the Part
Attire requirements are typically expected of people who stand beside the couple at the altar, such as a best man or maid of honor. While there may not be formal rules for the ushers, you should find out if the couple has any expectations. Consider coordinating what you wear with the other ushers so that nobody looks conspicuous or draws attention away from the happy couple. If your friends are going with a more casual look, you should probably avoid something too formal or fussy. It’s better to ask questions than make assumptions.
Being invited to witness the union of loved ones is an honor. Being asked to be a part of the ceremony is an even greater honor. Consider it a privilege that you were asked to participate in someone’s special day as an usher. Not only are you a member of the wedding party, but you also play an important part in how guests will perceive the ceremony. Get in there and be the best usher you can be!
A Wedding cake and diet restrictions don’t typically go hand in hand.Of all the symbols commonly associated with marriage ceremonies, the wedding cake is one of the most iconic. Many Canadian couples anticipate a grand multitiered cake, both as a treat for the eyes and the taste buds. Professional bakers and pastry chefs work their magic to transform flour, eggs, and sugar into a delicious dessert. If you’re responsible for preparing a wedding cake or other sweet treats for someone’s nuptials, you may need to create a cake that accounts for food sensitivities, allergens, restrictions, and plant-based lifestyles. Here are some ingredient substitutions you should know about.
Flour Power
Flour is responsible for giving a cake its structure. All-purpose flour and cake flour are usually wheat products and therefore not recommended for those on a gluten-free diet. The easiest swap usually involves gluten-free flours that are 1:1, meaning if a recipe calls for one cup of wheat-based flour, you can use the same volume or weight of gluten-free flour. Other flours can be used, including those made from coconut, almond, and chickpea, but the substitutions aren’t 1:1. Use ¼ cup of coconut flour for every cup of flour. Use ¾ cup of almond flour per cup of flour. Use ¾ cup of chickpea flour for each cup of flour. You may have to make other adjustments to approximate the consistency and texture of wheat flour-based batter.
Stairway to Leaven
Leavening agents cause gas expansion in a dough or batter when exposed to liquid, acid, or heat. Leavening or rising agents such as baking powder, baking soda, egg whites, etc., help a cake rise, resulting in a pleasant, fluffy texture. Baking powder and baking soda are commonly used. You can substitute 1 teaspoon of baking powder with ½ teaspoon of cream of tartar and ¼ teaspoon of baking powder. If you don’t have any cream of tartar, use 1 teaspoon of an acid such as lemon juice or vinegar. If a recipe calls for baking soda, you can use 3 teaspoons (or 1 tablespoon) of baking powder per teaspoon of baking soda.
A Jack of All Trades Diet
Eggs contribute to flavor, structure, texture, color, and volume. Some cake recipes call for adding whites and yolks separately, impacting the final product. Consider these substitutions for each large egg in your cake:
Carbonated water: Use ¼ cup in a recipe that doesn’t require separation.
Water, oil, and baking powder: Combine 2 tablespoons of water, 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil, and 2 teaspoons of baking powder.
Fruit products: Use ¼ cup of applesauce or mashed banana.
Chia or flax seeds: Make a paste of 1 tablespoon of seeds and 3 tablespoons of water.
Aquafaba: This chickpea-based product can be used in place of egg whites.
A Dairy-Free Diet
Dairy is commonly found in cake recipes as either a liquid (milk), a leavening agent (whipped cream), or a fat (butter). For couples and guests who want vegan or plant-based cakes, you don’t need to sacrifice flavor, moistness, or structure with these substitutions:
Non-dairy creamers: These products add moisture and liquid. Flavored varieties can also add to your cake’s flavor profile.
Fruit juices: Natural juices work especially well in recipes calling for baking soda.
Vegetable and other neutral oils: Vegetable, avocado, and coconut oils work as a 1:1 substitute for melted butter.
Applesauce: Use ½ cup for every cup of butter.
As wedding celebrations become more inclusive and health-conscious, some couples may opt for cakes free of animal products or common food allergens, such as gluten. Consider these ingredient alternatives for cakes that are every bit as moist, tender, and delicious as those made from a classic recipe. You don’t need to sacrifice or compromise when it comes to caring about others.
Most of us know the axiom, “Necessity is the mother of invention.” It may sound a little cliché, but nothing’s proven the saying truer than weddings in the COVID-19 age. Couples are incredibly inventive. They’re adapting traditions to make them work for smaller, socially distanced events. The hybrid wedding is one great example – it combines the ceremony and reception and adds livestreaming into the mix. What does this new format include, and how can you make it work for your celebration? Keep reading for a quick guide and tips for a successful hybrid wedding.
Ceremony and Reception Plus Livestream
Wedding Wire Canada’s Diane Hall described the hybrid wedding as one of 2022’s top emerging trends. Most versions include an intimate ceremony and reception with livestream access for other guests. The format gives equal attention to both the in-person and virtual components. Couples pay as much attention to the online guest experience, making it memorable and enjoyable. In-person guests include close family and friends only – usually no more than 10 attendees total. But they can include as many online guests as their budgets and bandwidth allow.
Event planning pro Jeff Stillwell described to Brides a few other benefits of hybrid weddings. Couples desire to include friends and family in their celebrations. That’s why Stillwell foresees hybrid events becoming the norm in the future. They offer the flexibility to include whoever you want. There’s no handwringing over cutting down a guest list, and likely no hurt feelings.
Crafting a Unified Guest Experience
It’s important to make online guests feel included and enriched like in-person attendees. Accomplishing this goal requires minding all the details, from invites to the food. All guests, whether in-person or online, should receive the same type of invite. You can choose either paper invitations or electronic versions. But Stillwell suggests the former so that virtual guests receive something tangible.
Setting a single dress code for everyone creates a sense of unity. If you need a refresher on guest attire, Wedding Wire Canada has an excellent primer. But there are many other things you can do to craft a unified experience. One way is assembling a virtual guest package. You can include anything you like, but you can’t go wrong with a mini wedding cake, a printed program, and some bubbly. Be sure to send it about a week before the big day.
Depending on your budget, you may be able to go a little grander. Most weddings in 2020 and 2021 skew more on the semi-formal or casual side. That gives you plenty of leeway, especially with your food. Want to serve in-person and online guests the same meal? Get a caterer that can do both. And as with a traditional wedding, be sure to account for special dietary needs – allergies, low-salt, and so forth.
Meanwhile, you’ll also want to think about tech logistics. Shop around for livestream services that fit your needs and budget. Remember to test-run your equipment in advance. And choose a photographer to capture both your in-person and virtual attendees.
Time To Think About Time Zones
Planning a hybrid wedding sounds simple, right? The Knot reminds us that time zone differences can cause snags if not accounted for. If you’re saying “I do” in St. John’s but half of your guests are in Vancouver, you’ll need to set a time that accommodates both. Need to sort out time zones? Time and Date can help with that.
Planning Your Hybrid Wedding
Hybrid weddings may be the wave of the future. After all, you get to share your special day with loved ones while keeping them healthy and safe. Integrating online guest participation isn’t difficult, but it requires some thought about logistics. Also, giving yourselves plenty of planning time is vital. When you’re done, you’ll have a memorable, meaningful, and fun event.
The decision to get married and to celebrate is a big step in your love story. Whether you planned the moment out together or there was an element of surprise to “popping the question,” you undoubtedly want to celebrate this milestone in some capacity. Before you get into the thick of planning for your wedding, consider these ideas and find the perfect way to savor the moment.
The Traditional Party
Hosting a gathering of close family and friends is one of the most popular options after getting engaged. Having this party is not only a perfect way to celebrate your coming union, but it also serves as an opportunity to introduce your families to each other in a more intimate way. You may also wish to use your party as a chance to officially announce your engagement to those who matter most. Though it has become commonplace for couples to have this type of event, you can easily forego the party if the idea doesn’t immediately appeal to you.
The Getaway
Planning your wedding will be a task that consumes a lot of your free time. While you still have the chance, go on a small trip to celebrate your engagement. A weekend getaway acts as the perfect way to bond with your partner before you need to dive into the details of seating charts and floral arrangements. Since you’ll likely want to be frugal with your funds at this point, seek out travel deals that work for your budget. You can even consider turning off your phones for the weekend and indulging in a staycation at home.
The Journey to Where It Began
Your engagement is all about the love your share with your partner. To celebrate this in a sentimental way, take a journey to where your story began. Returning to the place where you met can be a lovely way to recall how you felt the first time you encountered each other. If that place is difficult to return to, like a restaurant that closed or a college classroom you don’t have access to, get creative. Instead of going back to the exact spot, pick a place nearby and spend the time chatting about that first magical moment.
The Internet Announcement
Not all couples will have the time to throw a party or go on a trip to celebrate this moment. If you plan on making an announcement on the internet to let people know about your engagement, try turning this task into an activity you can share together. Instead of making a simple post with a picture of the ring, create an album of photos detailing some of your favorite memories from the course of your relationship. This offers an excuse to look through pictures together and reminisce about the long road you’ve traveled to get to this point.
The Shopping Spree
Sometimes, the best way you and your partner can enjoy your engagement is by doing something nice for yourselves. Treat yourself to a purchase or two that you have been putting off. If you already live together, invest in an appliance you’ve been wanting or finally grab a new mattress for your bed. You can even buy something that is focused around your engagement, like a decorative box to store your rings or cardstock to mail out official announcements to the people you love. Splurge a bit and see how treating yourself can heighten your excitement.
While there is no rule stating you need to celebrate your engagement, it can be important to stop and appreciate how far your relationship has come. Find an idea that best reflects your personalities and honor the moment in a way that is meaningful to you.
Modern couples often want to include their fur baby in their wedding, but doing so is more challenging than simply bringing your pet to the ceremony and reception. You must consider several factors to ensure your pet-friendly wedding is as joyous and stress-free as possible for everyone involved.
Choose the Best Role for Your Pet
Consider your pet’s personality and style to find a role for it in the wedding. If you have an especially active pet, you could let him greet visitors to use up some of his energy. A couch potato may be better suited to walking down the aisle with you to her favorite pillow so she can nap during the ceremony.
If you want your pet to wear a special outfit during the wedding, practice putting it on ahead of time. If you have a shy pet or reactive dog, think about other roles that may be less stressful for your companion. For example, your fur baby could star in your engagement photos or invitations.
Hire a Pet Sitter
Before you plan to bring your pet, check with the venue to see if it’s pet friendly. Make sure you know the rules at each venue about what’s expected of your pet. Once you’re sure you want to include your animal, hire a pet sitter for the day. You and your wedding party are going to be busy. Don’t rely on them to take care of your pet.
Give your pet time to get to know the sitter before the big day. Also, ask your venue if there is a space where your pet can rest if things get overwhelming, or make arrangements for your sitter to take your animal back to the hotel or your home.
Make Your Guests Aware Of Your Pet
If you’re planning on bringing your pet to the wedding, you should alert guests because many people have allergies. This gives guests a chance to prepare by taking allergy medicine or to decline the invitation. Also, you should note whether other pets are welcome at the wedding or not. Mention it ahead of time so there are no questions or surprises.
Talk to Your Vendors
Let your wedding photographer know your pet is part of your wedding party. This can help the photo team set up the right angles to get your pet in the pictures.
Talk to the florist about your bouquet and floral arrangements, which should not include plants that are poisonous to your pet. For example, lilies are very toxic to cats, and some are toxic to dogs.
If you think your dog will be at the reception, you should alert the band or DJ and tell your caterer that a dog will be on-site. Communication before the event will help things go much smoother.
Pack Supplies for the Big Day
You’ll want to make sure to have plenty of food, water and treats for your pet on your wedding day. Pack the pet’s food bowl and water dish to give him a sense of normalcy. Don’t forget to include a couple of favorite toys, plenty of waste bags and a pillow or dog bed. It might even be good to include a towel or puppy pads for accidents. And a lint roller for pet hair is an absolute must.
Having your best four-legged friend in your wedding party can make your day special, but you’ll want to practice with your pet beforehand. Let your pet get familiar with the space before the big day so he isn’t stressed out. Have a plan B in case things don’t go how you want, and you’ll still be able to have the wedding of your dreams.
Having a lot of friends can be both a blessing and a curse while you’re planning your wedding. The more people you want to have a role in the festivities, the more complicated it becomes to have a wedding party of a sensible size. One way around this is by ditching the idea of bridesmaids and groomsmen altogether. Instead, there are plenty of other ways to include your loved ones during the ceremony and reception. Consider these alternatives and discover useful ideas for giving everyone a part to play.
Ask for Assistance With Preliminary Events
Typically, members of the wedding party are responsible for planning preliminary gatherings like the engagement party and the bachelor or bachelorette parties. Even though you’re opting to forego the traditional wedding party, you can still ask your close friends and family members to help you with certain precursory affairs. You should remain mindful of the costs of planning, however. Offer to pay for the parties, and be sure to purchase small gifts as a way of showing your gratitude to those who dedicated time and effort to putting together these events.
Give Them Something To Read
Another great way to include your loved ones on your big day is by asking some of them to do readings during the ceremony. Whether you follow a traditional religious format or select texts that hold a special significance to your heart, this is a perfect way to show people you care about that you want them involved in your event. Be mindful of whether the people you ask are comfortable with public speaking. If certain people have a fear of talking in front of groups, it is best to find another task for them.
Have Friends Give Speeches
You can also ask friends and family to give speeches during the reception. Traditionally, the best man and maid of honor deliver toasts over the course of the festivities. If you aren’t having anyone fill these roles, then you can feel free to ask anyone you’d like to say a few words. The more people you ask to speak, the shorter you need to make the speeches. Guests tend to become restless when people talk for too long, so be sure to ask only people who you know will be able to deliver succinct and sentimental toasts.
Delegate Important Tasks
Throughout the course of your wedding, there are some tasks that need to be handled by individuals who are competent and trustworthy. If you want to make the people you care about feel included, consider asking them to take on these responsibilities. For example, you may need people to usher guests to their seats before the ceremony begins. You may also need a person or two to coordinate with the caterers and other vendors to ensure your big day follows a tight schedule. Asking responsible friends to fill these roles can offer you peace of mind.
Include Your Friends in Photos
Finally, consider including specific loved ones in your wedding photos as a way of making them feel involved. However, don’t wait until the last minute to make this decision. Inform all of the people you want in your photos of your plan before the big day arrives. This is important because you don’t want people to wander off or get too drunk before you have the opportunity to get them in a picture. It can also be helpful to give a list of names to the photographer so that he or she can ensure everyone is present.
Though it might be traditional, there is no rule stating you must have a wedding party. If you still want your loved ones to feel included, there are plenty of alternatives that will make them feel special on your big day.
Sustainable weddings have been on trend for years. Weddings can be extravagant affairs with a lot of waste, but with a little forethought, an eco-friendly event is more attainable. Making your wedding green not only reduces your impact on the environment, but it also reduces the impact on your budget. Have a mantra of reduce, reuse and recycle for your upcoming wedding by starting with these tips.
Look for a Green Venue
Today’s hotels and event venues have many ways to reduce their carbon footprint, from using solar panels to composting on-site. Look for venues that have multiple sustainable initiatives in place that support green operations. Some buildings get certified through federal or state programs to indicate their commitment to sustainability. Under the Canada Green Building Council, hotels can be audited to receive a green key rating of one to five to demonstrate their current environmental efforts. Holding your wedding in a green environment and housing your guests in green hotels can make a big difference in your own environmental impact.
Sustainable Ways For Wedding Attire
Fashion has a huge impact on the environment. Creating dresses and tuxes that might only be worn once or twice takes a lot of resources. Instead of buying new, rent or buy a used wedding gown and bridesmaids dresses. If you do buy new items, look for sustainable fashion that is made of recycled or sustainable materials and made in ethical working conditions. Check for social responsibility statements by the corporate office. Shop locally or use brands that limit packaging.
Reuse or Rent Décor
Decorations and flowers are items that can end up in landfills after the wedding. Talk to the wedding venue about wedding decorations that you can reuse or rent. Shop locally for reused decorations on social media or in second-hand stores. Ask your friends to reuse their wedding decorations. Even if your colors aren’t the same, the greenery and glass vases will fit into any color scheme. Plan to offer your own wedding decorations to others after your wedding.
Create a Sustainable Wedding Gift Registry
Register with stores that are eco-friendly and sell items made from recycled materials, are Fair Trade Certified or made locally. You may also want to give guests an option to help give money toward your honeymoon or another large purchase. Some couples even ask guests to give to charity instead of giving a gift, especially when the couple already has everything they need in their home.
Sustainable Menu Items
The menu is another place where planning ahead can make your wedding more sustainable. Start by thinking about seasonal foods for the wedding. Anything that can be sourced locally is usually a better choice for the environment. Serving local wines and delicacies also supports your community. Plant-based menus are also more eco-friendly and usually less expensive than serving seafood and meats.
Ask your caterer about their own process to reduce waste. Rent dishes and flatware for serving. Although those items will need to be washed, it will keep a lot of waste out of landfills. Instead of a buffet, choose a plated dinner. Buffets require a lot of extra food for serving, which often goes to waste.
Make Small Changes To Your Wedding
Before buying items for your wedding, think about the impact on the environment. Candles and balloons might be traditional decorations, but both are not sustainable. Balloons just get tossed into a landfill after the wedding. Candles made of paraffin wax, which is a petroleum product, are not eco-friendly. Printed invitations use a lot of paper. Find eco-friendly options instead.
Think of ways you can be more sustainable on your special day to really enjoy your wedding, knowing that you’re not a burden to the environment.
As the wedding couple, you will probably be very busy through the ceremony and reception not thinking about entertainment. Your guests may have a completely different experience, from waiting for the caterer to serve dinner after the cocktail hour to waiting for the DJ to start the dancing. Hosting entertainment for those moments can make your guests remember your wedding fondly. Here are some of the best ideas to keep guests busy during the reception.
Hire a Petting Zoo
Even if you have a kids-free wedding, adults will enjoy getting to pet and watch animals in a petting zoo. Some petting zoos have a unique array of animals, hedgehogs, bunnies, ducks, alpacas, goats and more. The staff who come with the zoo will provide information and manage the creatures, so it’s educational and fun without a lot of extra work for anyone. Check with your venue to make sure it’s okay to have animals on site.
Table Games As Entertainment
Buy some travel games or decks of cards to place on the table to give guests something easy to do between courses or during speeches. Practically everyone remembers the classics, like checkers, backgammon or crazy eights, so you won’t need to provide instructions. Personalize the decks of cards with your photos and let guests take them home as a reminder of the wedding.
A Photo Scavenger Hunt
Give guests a list of ideas for pictures to take with their own phone or with a disposable camera. Make up two or three sets of lists so everyone at the same table has a different list. Ask them to post to social media with a unique wedding hashtag to make these photos easy to find. You’ll see much more of the reception through a different lens and get some great memories that your photographer might miss.
Hire Unique Entertainers
Your community probably has a lot of entertainers who would spend a couple of hours providing entertainment for a crowd. Think beyond musicians or circus-style performers. Hire a caricaturist, a magician or a balloon animal artist for the cocktail party in addition to any band or other entertainment. If you’ve ever been to a Renaissance faire, think about the street performers that kept you entertained while you walked around, the dancers, the bird of prey showcase or the comedians.
Set Up a Miniature Golf Course
Check with your local bounce house rental to see what kinds of games they offer. If your venue has space for a mini golf course or croquet, those kinds of games can keep old and young guests entertained for a while without wearing them out in the heat of the day. You may find some other neat game ideas as some party places rent casino games or carnival games that will keep guests busy instead of twiddling their thumbs.
Coloring Books or Advice Pages For Entertainment
On each table, place some crayons and coloring books. Adults and children alike often enjoy having something to keep their hands busy that is not mentally challenging. Give guests an opportunity to leave you a piece of wisdom or advice for your marriage by leaving special cards on the table.
Family and Guest Trivia Entertainment
Get guests to talk to each other by leaving cards with clues to information about each other at the table. Kind of like a “Guess Who” game. Or leave clues about the wedding party to see if guests can guess which person in the family can play the harmonica or some other unique attribute. You might even ask who is the oldest at the wedding or who traveled the farthest. Make sure to provide answers through the evening to see who got it right.
Give your guests a reason to enjoy your wedding by keeping them entertained throughout the day or evening.
We all know how crucial an Invitation can be, Informing your guests of your wedding is one of the biggest tasks on your plate. While you might feel excited to get this started from the moment you announce your engagement, it is best to make sure you put in proper research before you begin. Invites typically come in what is known as a “suite.” Unlike invites to a birthday party, which require little more than card and envelope, there are a few key elements involved with the suite. Review this breakdown and feel ready to tackle this important wedding task.
The Preliminary Stepof The Invitation
Before you even get to the suite itself, there is a very important preliminary step you must address. The save-the-date cards are the first point of contact you will have with most of your guests. This card provides your friends and family members with the general notice of your wedding and the date you have selected. While you can include other details if you so desire, this early stage is only meant to provide a notice to your guests so they can plan accordingly. This isn’t part of the suite, but it is definitely crucial.
The Main Event
The suite itself is composed of several parts. The centerpiece is the main invitation. This is the item that includes all of the most important details of your event. The verbiage and exact phrasings you select will come down to what you feel comfortable with, but there are some templates online you can use to get started. Be sure to include your full names, the date and time of the event, and the exact address of the venue. You don’t want to crowd the paper, so limit yourself to these key points.
It is important to note that some customs suggest putting in the names of the people who are paying for the event. If your parents are helping to cover the costs of your big day, you would introduce the invitation with language suggesting they are the ones welcoming the guests. This is not as commonplace as it once was, however, and can be left to your own discretion.
The InvitationWith AResponse Card
While informing guests of your big day is important, it is equally as crucial to include the response card. This is a small item included along with the other stationery in the suite. The card is included to allow guests a convenient way of replying to the invitation. Typically, the card is very small and is placed within an envelope that has been addressed and stamped. You don’t need to include postage, but it increases the odds your guests will place the cards right in the mail and you can get a headcount.
The Excess
The final piece of the suite is the “details” card. In reality, this can be a single card or multiple pieces of paper. The point is to include the information that cannot fit on the main card or doesn’t belong elsewhere. For example, if you need to give directions to guests, this is the place to provide that info. The details you can include here will range from the answers to commonplace questions, contact info that might be essential, information related to booking local hotel rooms, and so on.
The Rest
Finally, there are lots of little flourishes you can include in the invitation suite to give it a bit more personality. While you don’t want to over stuff the envelope, couples will include decorative elements that don’t take up much space and help to tie the invites into the overall aesthetic of the event.
An invitation suite is an important part of your big day. Create a list to make sure you hit every point discussed here and tackle this task with ease.
There’s one word that seems to pop up around every corner, from the automobile industry to luxury travel and from housing prices to fast food. Inflation has made an impact across every economic sector in Canada, including in the wedding industry. During the pandemic, many people put their plans for getting married on hold, and as soon as the government eased lockdown restrictions, people rushed to catch up on missed opportunities and plans. For couples wanting to throw the wedding of their dreams, inflation has pushed prices higher than ever before. Here’s how the inflation problem in Canada is inspiring new wedding trends.
Cost of Inflation
At first glance, inflation doesn’t look complicated, but investigating the how and why reveals an important web of factors that created the perfect storm for today’s price increases. Inflation in and of itself is not a bad thing, and it isn’t unnatural. Over time, the costs of goods and services increase, and wages must rise to keep up pace. The issue is that the unique context that the COVID-19 pandemic created gave rise to a level of inflation that should have happened slowly over many years.
During the pandemic, the demand for certain commodities fell while for others, it shot up. Along with this imbalance in the demand for goods and services, supply chains screeched to a halt due to global lockdown restrictions. Since those restrictions weren’t natural but governmentally imposed, as soon as governments changed their minds, supply chains had to race forward to catch up.
There has been a shortage of labor as well, for the same reason. Businesses eventually pass these pain points down to consumers in the form of higher prices. In the post-pandemic economy, Canadians are desperate to regain a sense of normalcy, but to achieve that, they have to decide how much they’re willing to pay for what they want.
Top Wedding Costs for Couples
It’s no secret that weddings are expensive, as there are several high costs that couples have to face when preparing to get married. Inflation has only made this problem worse. The areas that hit couples hard are:
Rentals
Venues
Catering
Flowers
Decorations
Planning services
Airfare and travel
Fuel costs
In past years, the average cost of a wedding hovered around $30,000. With inflation and the cost of labor skyrocketing, that price tag could easily hit $50,000 in the next five years if things don’t change. Canada’s central bank has been hitting back by increasing interest rates, but the trickle-down effect might take a while to reach the wedding industry.
New Solutions and Trends To Limit Cost
The high cost of putting together a wedding is inspiring couples to get creative and embrace new solutions and trends. To start, many couples are deciding against overseas destination weddings. Those who still want a change of scenery are embracing what Canada has to offer and choosing stunning natural backdrops within the country, such as local beaches, mountains, and more.
Another solution for couples is the concept of having a non-traditional wedding. While some people still want to get married in a church, there are so many more options available for people who aren’t worried about maintaining the religious aspect. From walking down the aisle through rows of books at a gorgeous public library to having a reception at a local brewery, engaged couples are really pulling out all the stops to save money. Other cost-saving wedding trends are:
Weekday ceremonies
Potluck reception meals
Upcycled wedding decorations
Semi-formal wedding attire
Wedding vendors are struggling during this busy boom period, but it’s consumers who are hit hardest by inflation. Fortunately, obstacles make people more creative than ever before, which is exactly what is happening for couples planning their wedding events.
A dear friend is preparing to tie the knot and has asked you to be an usher for the wedding. You may or may not have been to past weddings where there were ushers. You might think you know what you’re to do, having attended a church service before. But maybe you still have questions. Do you perform the same duties as a doorperson for a funeral or some other ceremony? What is the expected commitment level? Are you just a second-tier bridesmaid or groomsman? Here are some things to know about being an usher.
Usher Taking It Seriously
First, you should recognize that serving as an usher is serious business. It’s not an afterthought role casually asked of you by the happy couple. Your friend or family member wants to honor your relationship and has asked you to be a formal participant in this momentous occasion. You provide support to the couple and help relieve some of the pressure by performing your role. Acknowledge the privilege of being asked to serve, and let your loved one know if you’re able to participate as soon as possible.
Understanding Your Duties
After you’ve accepted your role as an usher, you’ll need to know what’s expected of you. You should ask your friends or a wedding planner about your duties, other details such as attire, and other obligations for the big day and surrounding events. Typically, these attendants are responsible for the following:
Greeting Guests: You will likely be the first person many wedding attendees see. Your attitude and how you present yourself can set the tone, so be friendly and look sharp.
Escorting Attendees: Ushers are almost always responsible for escorting people to their seats. You’ll need to know if people are supposed to sit on a certain side of the aisle. You may be asked to escort some very important people to reserved seating, like parents or grandparents of the spouses-to-be. Be mindful that some guests move at a slower pace or need extra support in finding their seat.
Passing Out Programs: While some ceremonies have programs available outside for guests to take, you may be responsible for handing these out when people enter the venue. Pay special attention here, as there might only be one program per group instead of per person.
Opening Doors: Sometimes ushers are expected to open and close the doors to the chapel, hall, or sanctuary at various parts of the ceremony, especially for a bride’s processional and recessional.
Depending on the details, you may be asked to seat late arrivals, direct people to an overflow room or assist with parking. For other events such as the rehearsal dinner or reception, there may be additional duties according to the needs or wants of the couple.
Dressing the Part
Attire requirements are typically expected of people who stand beside the couple at the altar, such as a best man or maid of honor. While there may not be formal rules for the ushers, you should find out if the couple has any expectations. Consider coordinating what you wear with the other ushers so that nobody looks conspicuous or draws attention away from the happy couple. If your friends are going with a more casual look, you should probably avoid something too formal or fussy. It’s better to ask questions than make assumptions.
Being invited to witness the union of loved ones is an honor. Being asked to be a part of the ceremony is an even greater honor. Consider it a privilege that you were asked to participate in someone’s special day as an usher. Not only are you a member of the wedding party, but you also play an important part in how guests will perceive the ceremony. Get in there and be the best usher you can be!
A Wedding cake and diet restrictions don’t typically go hand in hand.Of all the symbols commonly associated with marriage ceremonies, the wedding cake is one of the most iconic. Many Canadian couples anticipate a grand multitiered cake, both as a treat for the eyes and the taste buds. Professional bakers and pastry chefs work their magic to transform flour, eggs, and sugar into a delicious dessert. If you’re responsible for preparing a wedding cake or other sweet treats for someone’s nuptials, you may need to create a cake that accounts for food sensitivities, allergens, restrictions, and plant-based lifestyles. Here are some ingredient substitutions you should know about.
Flour Power
Flour is responsible for giving a cake its structure. All-purpose flour and cake flour are usually wheat products and therefore not recommended for those on a gluten-free diet. The easiest swap usually involves gluten-free flours that are 1:1, meaning if a recipe calls for one cup of wheat-based flour, you can use the same volume or weight of gluten-free flour. Other flours can be used, including those made from coconut, almond, and chickpea, but the substitutions aren’t 1:1. Use ¼ cup of coconut flour for every cup of flour. Use ¾ cup of almond flour per cup of flour. Use ¾ cup of chickpea flour for each cup of flour. You may have to make other adjustments to approximate the consistency and texture of wheat flour-based batter.
Stairway to Leaven
Leavening agents cause gas expansion in a dough or batter when exposed to liquid, acid, or heat. Leavening or rising agents such as baking powder, baking soda, egg whites, etc., help a cake rise, resulting in a pleasant, fluffy texture. Baking powder and baking soda are commonly used. You can substitute 1 teaspoon of baking powder with ½ teaspoon of cream of tartar and ¼ teaspoon of baking powder. If you don’t have any cream of tartar, use 1 teaspoon of an acid such as lemon juice or vinegar. If a recipe calls for baking soda, you can use 3 teaspoons (or 1 tablespoon) of baking powder per teaspoon of baking soda.
A Jack of All Trades Diet
Eggs contribute to flavor, structure, texture, color, and volume. Some cake recipes call for adding whites and yolks separately, impacting the final product. Consider these substitutions for each large egg in your cake:
Carbonated water: Use ¼ cup in a recipe that doesn’t require separation.
Water, oil, and baking powder: Combine 2 tablespoons of water, 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil, and 2 teaspoons of baking powder.
Fruit products: Use ¼ cup of applesauce or mashed banana.
Chia or flax seeds: Make a paste of 1 tablespoon of seeds and 3 tablespoons of water.
Aquafaba: This chickpea-based product can be used in place of egg whites.
A Dairy-Free Diet
Dairy is commonly found in cake recipes as either a liquid (milk), a leavening agent (whipped cream), or a fat (butter). For couples and guests who want vegan or plant-based cakes, you don’t need to sacrifice flavor, moistness, or structure with these substitutions:
Non-dairy creamers: These products add moisture and liquid. Flavored varieties can also add to your cake’s flavor profile.
Fruit juices: Natural juices work especially well in recipes calling for baking soda.
Vegetable and other neutral oils: Vegetable, avocado, and coconut oils work as a 1:1 substitute for melted butter.
Applesauce: Use ½ cup for every cup of butter.
As wedding celebrations become more inclusive and health-conscious, some couples may opt for cakes free of animal products or common food allergens, such as gluten. Consider these ingredient alternatives for cakes that are every bit as moist, tender, and delicious as those made from a classic recipe. You don’t need to sacrifice or compromise when it comes to caring about others.
Most of us know the axiom, “Necessity is the mother of invention.” It may sound a little cliché, but nothing’s proven the saying truer than weddings in the COVID-19 age. Couples are incredibly inventive. They’re adapting traditions to make them work for smaller, socially distanced events. The hybrid wedding is one great example – it combines the ceremony and reception and adds livestreaming into the mix. What does this new format include, and how can you make it work for your celebration? Keep reading for a quick guide and tips for a successful hybrid wedding.
Ceremony and Reception Plus Livestream
Wedding Wire Canada’s Diane Hall described the hybrid wedding as one of 2022’s top emerging trends. Most versions include an intimate ceremony and reception with livestream access for other guests. The format gives equal attention to both the in-person and virtual components. Couples pay as much attention to the online guest experience, making it memorable and enjoyable. In-person guests include close family and friends only – usually no more than 10 attendees total. But they can include as many online guests as their budgets and bandwidth allow.
Event planning pro Jeff Stillwell described to Brides a few other benefits of hybrid weddings. Couples desire to include friends and family in their celebrations. That’s why Stillwell foresees hybrid events becoming the norm in the future. They offer the flexibility to include whoever you want. There’s no handwringing over cutting down a guest list, and likely no hurt feelings.
Crafting a Unified Guest Experience
It’s important to make online guests feel included and enriched like in-person attendees. Accomplishing this goal requires minding all the details, from invites to the food. All guests, whether in-person or online, should receive the same type of invite. You can choose either paper invitations or electronic versions. But Stillwell suggests the former so that virtual guests receive something tangible.
Setting a single dress code for everyone creates a sense of unity. If you need a refresher on guest attire, Wedding Wire Canada has an excellent primer. But there are many other things you can do to craft a unified experience. One way is assembling a virtual guest package. You can include anything you like, but you can’t go wrong with a mini wedding cake, a printed program, and some bubbly. Be sure to send it about a week before the big day.
Depending on your budget, you may be able to go a little grander. Most weddings in 2020 and 2021 skew more on the semi-formal or casual side. That gives you plenty of leeway, especially with your food. Want to serve in-person and online guests the same meal? Get a caterer that can do both. And as with a traditional wedding, be sure to account for special dietary needs – allergies, low-salt, and so forth.
Meanwhile, you’ll also want to think about tech logistics. Shop around for livestream services that fit your needs and budget. Remember to test-run your equipment in advance. And choose a photographer to capture both your in-person and virtual attendees.
Time To Think About Time Zones
Planning a hybrid wedding sounds simple, right? The Knot reminds us that time zone differences can cause snags if not accounted for. If you’re saying “I do” in St. John’s but half of your guests are in Vancouver, you’ll need to set a time that accommodates both. Need to sort out time zones? Time and Date can help with that.
Planning Your Hybrid Wedding
Hybrid weddings may be the wave of the future. After all, you get to share your special day with loved ones while keeping them healthy and safe. Integrating online guest participation isn’t difficult, but it requires some thought about logistics. Also, giving yourselves plenty of planning time is vital. When you’re done, you’ll have a memorable, meaningful, and fun event.
The decision to get married and to celebrate is a big step in your love story. Whether you planned the moment out together or there was an element of surprise to “popping the question,” you undoubtedly want to celebrate this milestone in some capacity. Before you get into the thick of planning for your wedding, consider these ideas and find the perfect way to savor the moment.
The Traditional Party
Hosting a gathering of close family and friends is one of the most popular options after getting engaged. Having this party is not only a perfect way to celebrate your coming union, but it also serves as an opportunity to introduce your families to each other in a more intimate way. You may also wish to use your party as a chance to officially announce your engagement to those who matter most. Though it has become commonplace for couples to have this type of event, you can easily forego the party if the idea doesn’t immediately appeal to you.
The Getaway
Planning your wedding will be a task that consumes a lot of your free time. While you still have the chance, go on a small trip to celebrate your engagement. A weekend getaway acts as the perfect way to bond with your partner before you need to dive into the details of seating charts and floral arrangements. Since you’ll likely want to be frugal with your funds at this point, seek out travel deals that work for your budget. You can even consider turning off your phones for the weekend and indulging in a staycation at home.
The Journey to Where It Began
Your engagement is all about the love your share with your partner. To celebrate this in a sentimental way, take a journey to where your story began. Returning to the place where you met can be a lovely way to recall how you felt the first time you encountered each other. If that place is difficult to return to, like a restaurant that closed or a college classroom you don’t have access to, get creative. Instead of going back to the exact spot, pick a place nearby and spend the time chatting about that first magical moment.
The Internet Announcement
Not all couples will have the time to throw a party or go on a trip to celebrate this moment. If you plan on making an announcement on the internet to let people know about your engagement, try turning this task into an activity you can share together. Instead of making a simple post with a picture of the ring, create an album of photos detailing some of your favorite memories from the course of your relationship. This offers an excuse to look through pictures together and reminisce about the long road you’ve traveled to get to this point.
The Shopping Spree
Sometimes, the best way you and your partner can enjoy your engagement is by doing something nice for yourselves. Treat yourself to a purchase or two that you have been putting off. If you already live together, invest in an appliance you’ve been wanting or finally grab a new mattress for your bed. You can even buy something that is focused around your engagement, like a decorative box to store your rings or cardstock to mail out official announcements to the people you love. Splurge a bit and see how treating yourself can heighten your excitement.
While there is no rule stating you need to celebrate your engagement, it can be important to stop and appreciate how far your relationship has come. Find an idea that best reflects your personalities and honor the moment in a way that is meaningful to you.
