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.
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.
You want to avoid a DIY disaster, couples often make mistakes when planning their weddings. While some will be small, like forgetting a pair of cufflinks on the dresser, others can be a bit more impactful. Forgetting to take major points into account when planning can lead to outcomes that pose a major threat to the enjoyment of your event. Thankfully, you can do yourself a big favor by considering a few things early. Review these tips and learn what to do when a problem appears.
DIY Disaster
Thanks to the internet and sites like Pinterest and YouTube, most people feel like they can tackle any project they imagine on their own. This has led to countless couples opting to take the DIY route with wedding decor in order to save money and give the event a more personal touch. Anyone who has experience in this area, however, knows how complicated such tasks can be. Just because it looks simple in a tutorial doesn’t mean it is going to be easy for you to execute in real life.
If you put off DIY tasks until the last minute and find you’re unable to complete the job because it is way more complicated than you thought, you’re in a worst-case scenario. Avoid this by doing a trial run of the project far in advance. Time yourself and see how long it takes to get a single item finished. Have a backup plan in the event something goes awry, and you should be in a much better position.
Outdoor Disaster
Outdoor weddings are a spectacular way to make the beauty of nature a central part of your big day. Sadly, the sunshine and scenic landscapes often come along with a variety of threats and annoyances. Rain when the forecast called for clear skies, for example, can set the entire day’s events into a tizzy. When planning an event that takes place outside, you absolutely want to consider inclement weather. Even if this means renting a tent you never have to use, the precautionary measures will be well worth the effort should you require them.
Bugs can also prove to be an aggravation. Thankfully, these pests are much easier to handle than a sudden thunderstorm. Giving your guests bug spray when they arrive or lighting candles meant to ward off particular insects can be great options. Think about whatever outdoor threats are most likely to impact your wedding and be sure to include potential solutions for each to give yourself peace of mind.
Guest Requests
Another interesting setback you might encounter has to do with your guests. These days, people tend to have a lot more restrictions when it comes to meals. From major allergies to strict diets, you’d be surprised at how many couples receive special meal requests from friends and family. As to not be surprised by this, be sure to include a mention of requests on your save-the-date cards or invitations. This will allow anyone with restrictions to give you ample warning so that it can be addressed with caterers in advance.
DIY Forgetful Minds
Finally, you’re probably most stressed about forgetting something important on the day of your wedding. Whether it is something major like tips for the vendors or something small like an accessory you wanted to include in your outfit, you can reduce your stress levels by making a simple checklist. More often than not, a list that you can refer to when putting yourself together on the morning of your event can work wonders toward ensuring you bring each and every item you require.
These are just a few of the problems you are likely to encounter when planning for your big day. In order to feel confident in your decisions and reduce the odds of a surprise disaster, put together a strategy that covers all the mistakes you’re most likely to experience.
In an age when you can take care of almost any task imaginable from the convenience of your phone, the idea of paying for certain services can seem foolish. This is often the mindset of many couples when it comes to hiring a wedding planner. The idea is that there are enough free apps and planning resources available online for couples to take on the task without any external influence. Though this seems like logical thinking, it is actually a decision that can lead to a ton of unnecessary stress.
From making your life easier to landing you deals you couldn’t get otherwise, an event planner can be a lifesaver in a variety of ways. Weigh these benefits and see why the decision might be right for you.
Offers Years of Experience
Marriage is meant to be a one-time deal for most people. This means that you likely don’t have any experience in planning an event like this. Though you can find inspiration on the internet and ask others about how to go about certain tasks, you are left to assume that the choices you are making will work out in the end. By hiring a planner, however, you are working with someone who has gone through this process time and time again. This level of experience can be invaluable when it comes to ironing out key details of your big day.
This experience level makes your planner a font of wisdom in many regards. The individual you hire can help you with anything from providing information on how you should tip your vendors to organizing sensible schedules for each goal you must accomplish before your wedding date arrives. Whenever you have a question, you’ll know who to turn to for some clarity.
Delivers Cost-Effective Solutions
A key reason many couples ditch the idea of hiring a planner is because it seems like an unnecessary expense. While it is true you will need to pay a fee for the services, the planner can help your budget in a variety of other ways. Namely, he or she will be able to direct you toward cost-effective solutions for almost any idea you come up with. Additionally, the professional world of the wedding industry is remarkably interconnected. A planner can use the connections made throughout his or her career to find you impressive deals and discounts.
Takes Care of Annoying Challenges
A large chunk of the obstacles a couple has to deal with while planning a wedding are minor things that slowly become more annoying. From arranging the seating chart to keeping vendors in the loop, you’ll find yourself pulling out your hair as these simple tasks slowly transform into points of major stress and contention. However, hiring a planner allows you the luxury of delegating responsibilities to someone who can handle them far better. This solves the problem outright and massively reduces how irritated you become while planning.
Organizes Everything for You
Along the same line of handling annoying tasks, the planner is also the person who can keep all of your information organized throughout the planning phase. Instead of littering your desk with vendor contracts, contact info for the venue, receipts, and to-do lists, your planner can compile everything for you. Should you forget about an appointment with your florist or need to book a consultation with a potential stylist, you’ll have the equivalent of a personal assistant providing you with all pertinent details related to your wedding.
While it definitely can seem like you’ll save money by foregoing the wedding planner entirely, this is not quite the truth. Weigh your options and see how bringing a professional into the mix can help save you a good chunk of change and keep you in the best spirits throughout the entire process.
As the world continues to turn, love continues to bloom between couples all over the globe. While the past year and a half and have dramatically altered many aspects of our lives, two hearts continue to come together, resulting in a lifelong pledge to love each other for better or worse. While love springs eternal, wedding ceremony trends continue to shift and evolve for many, including Canadians. Here are some to keep an eye on, especially if you plan to tie the knot soon.
Simpler NuptialTrends
Where time and budget allow, the over-the-top lavish ceremony will never truly go away; however, there is definitely a trend toward more relaxed, understated luxury. Many couples will say farewell to formal, black-tie affairs and hello to laid-back weddings that feel more like fun get-togethers with families and friends. Think of alfresco nuptials in a cozy garden setting with an emphasis on simple, natural fabrics and finishes instead of the glitz and glamor of precious metals, gems and crystal. Put a ring on it, kick off your shoes and tuck a stalk of your favorite wildflower behind your ear as you head to the altar.
Multi-Day Celebrations
Traditionally, weddings take place on one day, with the reception immediately after or later the same day. A global pandemic has made many couples re-imagine their one big day as several special days with events spread throughout. Imagine a weekend with different events involving guests from your various social circles. From bowling to a backyard party to a Sunday brunch, a multi-day celebration provides you the opportunity to host casual yet intimate functions that are more accommodating to the various people who are happy to celebrate this new phase of life with you.
Trends;Everything Old, Very Little New
A growing trend with weddings is the use of vintage furniture, finishes and fashion. Older furnishings evoke feelings of nostalgia and a love for all things timeless. While the trend of wearing family heirlooms is hardly new, more partners are choosing classic styles that inspire fond recollection of the good old days. This trend isn’t just limited to attire and decor. Look for a classic approach to wedding gifts, menus, invitations and more.
All the Way Live
As couples push for ceremonies that have a relaxed or organic feel, another emerging trend is a push toward the use of live music. From folksy acts that emphasize acoustic guitars and strings to rocking bands with unique renditions of some of the world’s most beloved love songs, a live act brings a sense of accessibility and intimacy that helps to make the celebration special. Do you know singer-songwriters or musicians? Make the wedding even more memorable with a commissioned expression of love in song.
Perfectly Imperfect
When it comes to the big day, a couple may feel pressured to look perfect and have everything just so. Increasingly, many partners are ditching perfection for a more natural approach. Instead of picture-perfect captures of the newlyweds in forced poses, you can expect to see more candid shots that feature the glow of love between the new spouses and the ones who have come together to celebrate them. There’s magic in laughter, embraces, eyes closed in happiness and pure smiles, and capturing these moments is paramount.
Inclusive Celebrations
You can also expect to see ceremonies that are more inclusive and degenderized. Don’t be surprised if you get invited to a ceremony featuring a best woman, a man of honor or grooms-maids. On your very special day, you get to choose who’s in your ceremony. Reception traditions of tossing a bouquet or garter may also go the way of the dodo in modern celebrations.
The weddings of tomorrow will continue to shift and change as society progresses. More couples are choosing to prioritize simplicity and comfort. The joy of marriage is in the journey, and many star-crossed voyagers are setting a course for relaxation over fuss.
A newly solemnized union is definitely a cause for celebration, leading to a wedding reception as the perfect opportunity to party with loved ones. After all, this will be the first day of the rest of your life and there’s nothing quite like a reception to kick things off. Dancing is a must at your reception, and when it comes to important choices, forget the chicken or the fish. It’s all about the music, and you need to decide on your source of entertainment. Should you go with a live band or a DJ? Here are some things to consider.
Putting First Things First
As with other reception details, you need to consider your budget and what works for your set of plans. You’ll probably spend more on a good live band than you will for a good DJ, but in both cases, you get what you pay for. It’s important to research potential musicians or DJs beforehand. Look for YouTube videos and client reviews, which a good live band or DJ will have. If you’ve enjoyed the entertainment at a loved one’s reception or other celebration, you can ask for referrals. Your best choices will be professional and have a “resume” and set pricing plan.
Choosing a Live Band
Some considerations for having live music at your reception include the following:
Crowd Participation: A great band doesn’t just play music well; they also know how to put on a show that engages your audience. A reception is a celebration with your nearest and dearest, and a band that knows how to keep the party “live” helps make your event more fun.
Versatility: A live band can help set the mood throughout the entire event. They can provide ceremony music as well as background music for toasts, bouquet tosses and more.
Stylistic Diversity: Some bands specialize in one type of genre and sound, while others have a more diverse repertoire to work with. This should be a major factor in your decision.
Venue Space: Generally, a band needs a stage as well as space for using and storing instruments and equipment.
Previous Performance Footage: Again, really good bands will have recordings of past performances for you to see how they sound and how well they were received.
Going With a DJ
If you’re looking for someone to get the party jumping, ponder these things:
Perfect Playlist: Good DJs will work with you to come up with a curated playlist of songs to keep the energy high. If there are certain songs that you want to include for group fun, like Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline,” you can make requests ahead of time.
Reception Only: DJs are generally hired to provide reception music, so you will need alternate plans for the wedding ceremony.
Available Space: The average setup won’t take as much room as that of a band in most cases. This is important if space comes at a premium at your venue.
Party All the Time: Thanks to technology, DJs can usually play music uninterrupted at length. Bands generally need to take breaks every now and then.
Referrals: Not all DJs are in the habit of recording their gigs, but every potential supplier should be able to provide client references.
Double Duty: Unlike classic hip-hop, some DJs are also great emcees. If you need one to pull double duty, keep that in mind when evaluating your choices.
The reception is an important part of your special day. It’s a time when you and your loved ones get to interact and celebrate after you tie the knot. Music is an important element of a reception. Both DJs and live bands can help you set a party atmosphere, but consider their differences as you plan your nuptials.
The decision to have a destination wedding can be a big one. Not only will you be looking at your planning tasks from an entirely different perspective, you also must dedicate extra effort to the financial side of things. There are additional costs attached to hosting your nuptials away from home, so it is wise to plan ahead and create a strategy for covering all expenses. Review these points and formulate a plan that will help you feel excited and prepared for your big day.
Location: Selecting the Destination
Perhaps the biggest factor that will influence the total cost of your destination event is the location you select. The world is a big place, and there are some areas that command a higher price than others. Before you can determine your exact budget for other services, decide where you’d like to hold your wedding. After you’ve picked out a country and venue, you can begin looking at expenses like airline fare, vendors, accommodations, and other details.
Lodging
Before you dive into the costs related to the wedding itself, you’ll find it useful to research your options with lodging. When you’re asking friends and family to travel far from home, it is practical to offer them a decent place to stay. If your wedding is going to take place in or near a popular tourist destination, you’ll find certain venues offer packages and deals for larger groups. While it isn’t necessary for you to cover the expenses for guests, working with the hotel or resort to reserve blocks at a discount is a good idea.
Destination andVendors
Hiring businesses to cover services like catering, entertainment, and photography for your wedding can be difficult under normal circumstances. With destination events, the challenge becomes a bit more complicated. Since you’re likely not as familiar with the area as you are with your home community, you won’t have an immediate knowledge of your options. Some couples find it useful to work with professional planners or venue managers to arrange certain services. This can save you a good amount of time and a lot of effort, though it may cost you a bit more in some areas for the convenience.
Decorations
One small problem you may encounter when planning a destination event is decor. If you have to board a plane, the last thing you want is to travel with extra luggage containing decorations. What’s more, you may not have the luxury of being able to rush out to the store to grab whatever supplies you need after you arrive. Again, this is a situation where you’ll find it is best to work with your venue manager. Usually, the representative of the venue can coordinate this side of the event for you and make the space look however you’d like.
Unique Experiences
If you’re traveling with a very small group for your nuptials, you may want to go above and beyond with the experience. There is no need to adhere to tradition when you’re abroad, especially when you’re in a new location that offers lots of possibilities. When there are a few days to work with on your itinerary, consider some extra events for your guests. A trip to the local beach, a dinner at a fancy restaurant, or an opportunity to soak up some culture via a museum or theatrical performance can all be fun activities to explore.
Though a destination wedding provides the chance to see a different side of the world during a milestone event in your life, there are some details to work out early on. Focus on the financial side of your event and structure your planning process around the most pressing expenses. With a little research, you’ll have the insight needed to make your nuptials come to life in a way that aligns with your budget.
Music forms the soundtracks to human life. Whether we’re working, playing a game, cooking, out with friends, or anything else, music moves us emotionally and mentally. Your wedding day is no different. Just like colors and brushstrokes craft a painting’s finer details, music can shape the mood and color of your event. This short guide explains what you need to know about reception music. You’ll also see some great tips for picking songs you and your guests will love.
Tunes for Your Cocktail Hour
Cocktail hour is a transition between your ceremony and reception dinner. With that in mind, the music should help your guests get into the mood. Expert Kristi Kellogg suggests selections that are uplifting but still promote a more relaxed vibe. Keep the slower songs for dinner hour or key moments on the dance floor. Faster songs are best after dinner hour’s over.
You’ll need about an hour’s worth of music, depending on your event’s schedule. Ideally, the cadence, speed, and volume should allow your guests to easily carry on conversations with the music going.
A Little Dinner Music, Maestro
Your budget may have room for music during dinner, supplied by your DJ or band. Martha Stewart Weddings mentions that it can add ambiance to the meal. Your guests can relax and enjoy their cuisine — just like you do when you’re dining out. When booking your entertainer of choice, you should inquire about additional costs for live music or a dinnertime playlist. Make sure it’s reflected in your price and your contract before you sign on the dotted line.
While you’re negotiating with your entertainers, don’t forget to discuss how dinner music will impact breaks and meals for your entertainers. This vendor etiquette guide from Brides offers useful advice on scheduling. Entertainers may want to eat during your cocktail hour and take shorter breaks during your wedding toasts. Another Martha Stewart Weddings piece suggests coordinating with your wedding planner and vendors on a break schedule.
Once you’ve elected to play dinner music, you must next decide what to play. You can collaborate with your entertainer to come up with ideas. If you’re working with a live band, the members may have some dinner standards they like to play. DJs also have some go-to selections for mealtime music. Avoid anything that’s super-loud or energetic — jazz, instrumentals, romantic songs, and anything with soft vocals are good choices.
Songs for Important Moments
Cocktail hour and dinner help create the mood. But specific songs punctuate key moments during your reception. The best way to choose those songs, says Wedding Wire Canada’s Alice Prendergast, is collaborating with your band or DJ. Don’t try to select all this music on your own. What’s more, you don’t want to finalize your selections without chatting with your entertainers.
When you’re picking special songs for your event, having a checklist can be helpful. In another Wedding Wire Canada article, Prendergast provides a comprehensive list of key moments during the reception. You have the entrance plus the first couple’s and parent-child dances. Meanwhile, you’ll want to keep some other reception music details in mind. You can combine the entrance and first dance, for instance, and use one song for this vital moment. Of course, that depends on if or how your DJ or bandleader introduces the rest of your entourage — your parents, the wedding party, and so forth. Certified wedding planner Judit Covarrubias Garcia clarifies that these introductions are optional.
Music to Your Ears
Details are key when you’re designing your wedding. If you’re like many couples, you’ll take time and care picking your music. Work with your DJ or band to construct playlists for cocktail hour and dinner, plus vital moments like the first dance and cake cutting. Keeping the mood and moment in mind will also help your special day be even more memorable.
COVID-19 has certainly changed Canadians’ lives. Many now focus on simplicity and economy in areas, including planning their weddings. They’re ditching elaborate details for elegant, minimalist, and less expensive alternatives. If you want gorgeous wedding flowers with less cost, time, and hassle, keep reading. Some great tips offer more streamlined approaches for achieving your wedding-day vision.
Perfect as a Pair
Several factors can impact the price of your wedding flowers. But simpler orders are often less expensive and easier for your florist to work with. That’s why The Knot’s Lauren Kay suggests sticking with only two kinds of flowers. As she explains, your florist spends less when buying in bulk. And that can translate to bigger savings for you. Try choosing blooms in similar shapes, sizes, and colors – this helps your florist achieve a unified look for your arrangements.
Simple Yet Elegant
Another great suggestion comes from personal finance expert Jennifer Calonia: Choose simpler arrangements. In her MyWalletJoy blog post, she mentions that your florist can create a sophisticated look without the need for huge and elaborate arrangements. A few stems in a glass bottle, for instance, can elevate any table décor. And your florist can craft them to match your event’s style. Olivia Muenter shows some rustic, boho, and traditional flower/bottle centerpieces in a September 2020 Brides article.
Mixing and MatchingFlowers
Must all your flower arrangements match? Absolutely not, according to Calonia. Simple and inexpensive doesn’t have to mean uniform or boring. Some great examples include varying tall and short centerpieces and using candles in some arrangements. This approach gives your florist more creative leeway, but it can also cut your total costs.
Year-Round Flower Favorites
Couples often focus seasonally when designing their weddings. That said, it’s worth considering some flower varieties that are available the entire year. The Spruce’s Nina Callaway lists several excellent options – gardenias, garden roses, orchids, and gladiolas, to name a few. If you must reschedule your big day, your florist can still get these blooming beauties.
If you’re concerned about cost, you needn’t worry. While gardenias and orchids are expensive, other varieties fall in low- to mid-range price tiers. As a compromise, you can pair a pricier stem with a less costly one. Talk to your florist for suggestions.
Callaway also mentions carnations in her list. They’re a polarizing choice for many thanks to their reputation as a “cheap filler flower.” But they don’t have to be, as Taysha Murtaugh points out in a Country Living piece. They’re hardy, available in many shades, and can create chic arrangements when clustered together. If you’re needing inspiration, check out some exquisite bouquets in this January 2021 Brides writeup.
From Ceremony to Reception
Creative couples are also repurposing their wedding ceremony flowers for their receptions. Martha Stewart Weddings explains how this can work. You’ll need a smart plan and cooperation with your florist or event planner to pull it off. Some ceremony arrangements can double as décor on the welcome or buffet tables. Large arrangements can sit near the head table to add some drama. Some ceremony chair décor can be shifted to reception chairs with a few modifications. To aid in your planning, take a look at Wedding Wire Canada’s guide to reception flowers by Alice Prendergast.
Weddings are joyful and memorable events, but their planning requires time and attention to detail. Maybe you’re a cost-conscious couple or rescheduling a postponed celebration. Perhaps you don’t have the time or energy to mind all the complicated minutiae. Fortunately, some simpler approaches can make it easier to choose your flower arrangements. From carefully curated choices to repurposed arrangements, you can accomplish an elegant, stylish, and cohesive look for your big day.
Alcohol tends to play a big part in many weddings. From toasting to the happy couple to providing encouragement to family members looking to dance, the right libations can take your event to the next level. The trouble plenty of couples experience is trying to pick out drinks that will please a large crowd. Individual drinking preferences tend to vary greatly from one person to the next. In order to make your guests happy and not spend a small fortune, you want to limit your bar to a few key selections.
Wine is one of the easiest options available when you’re looking for drinks that will satisfy a large group. However, you still need to put some thought into the type of wine you pick. Look over these tips and learn more about how you can find the right wine for your big day.
Understand the Basics
First and foremost, you should have some concept of wine basics before you start your search. If you’re someone who prefers liquor or beer, then you could be clueless about wine. The simplest point to understand is that red and white varieties are the most popular. Still, you won’t be able to get away with having one or the other. You should always offer at least one red and one white at the bar. Which varieties you pick, of course, will come down to a few other factors.
Consider the Season
For some couples, the influence of the season plays a huge part in planning a wedding. Everything from floral arrangements to decor will be selected based on the time of year the event will take place. The wine can be chosen using the same mentality. If you’re getting married in the winter, for example, some experts advise selecting a red that keeps the drinker warm and toasty. Similarly, a spring wedding can be great for a white with fruity or floral notes to it.
Look at Your Menu
Another helpful strategy when it comes to picking wine for your wedding is considering your exact menu. It is no secret that specific wine options pair well with certain meals. A menu featuring seafood will usually be complemented by wines with a lighter feel. Meanwhile, couples serving beef will find that reds like a pinot noir can bring out the best flavors when the two are paired together. Work with your caterer if you need advice on which wines will work best with the menu to make the most efficient selections.
Explore a Variety of Wine
You don’t need to feel obligated to select only a single type red and white wine either. In fact, some couples find it easier to order an assortment of bottles in the same price range. There are many online distributors that will sell mixed crates of wines at a low cost, allowing you the option to find a fun assortment without breaking the budget. However, having a lot of variety limits the quantity of each type you buy. Weigh the pros and cons before ordering any “variety packs” and see what’s best.
Determine the Amountof Wine
Determining how many bottles of wine you will need can be a very big challenge. Factors that will influence the final number include how many guests will be present, the cost per bottle, and what other alcohol options will be offered. Some experts suggest ordering one bottle of wine for every guest you are inviting. Though this method can cover you in a lot of ways, this particular strategy might not be the best approach for all couples.
Ordering wine for a wedding can be a bigger decision than many couples realize. Review how to find the perfect bottles for your big day and feel confident in the choices you make.
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.
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.
You want to avoid a DIY disaster, couples often make mistakes when planning their weddings. While some will be small, like forgetting a pair of cufflinks on the dresser, others can be a bit more impactful. Forgetting to take major points into account when planning can lead to outcomes that pose a major threat to the enjoyment of your event. Thankfully, you can do yourself a big favor by considering a few things early. Review these tips and learn what to do when a problem appears.
DIY Disaster
Thanks to the internet and sites like Pinterest and YouTube, most people feel like they can tackle any project they imagine on their own. This has led to countless couples opting to take the DIY route with wedding decor in order to save money and give the event a more personal touch. Anyone who has experience in this area, however, knows how complicated such tasks can be. Just because it looks simple in a tutorial doesn’t mean it is going to be easy for you to execute in real life.
If you put off DIY tasks until the last minute and find you’re unable to complete the job because it is way more complicated than you thought, you’re in a worst-case scenario. Avoid this by doing a trial run of the project far in advance. Time yourself and see how long it takes to get a single item finished. Have a backup plan in the event something goes awry, and you should be in a much better position.
Outdoor Disaster
Outdoor weddings are a spectacular way to make the beauty of nature a central part of your big day. Sadly, the sunshine and scenic landscapes often come along with a variety of threats and annoyances. Rain when the forecast called for clear skies, for example, can set the entire day’s events into a tizzy. When planning an event that takes place outside, you absolutely want to consider inclement weather. Even if this means renting a tent you never have to use, the precautionary measures will be well worth the effort should you require them.
Bugs can also prove to be an aggravation. Thankfully, these pests are much easier to handle than a sudden thunderstorm. Giving your guests bug spray when they arrive or lighting candles meant to ward off particular insects can be great options. Think about whatever outdoor threats are most likely to impact your wedding and be sure to include potential solutions for each to give yourself peace of mind.
Guest Requests
Another interesting setback you might encounter has to do with your guests. These days, people tend to have a lot more restrictions when it comes to meals. From major allergies to strict diets, you’d be surprised at how many couples receive special meal requests from friends and family. As to not be surprised by this, be sure to include a mention of requests on your save-the-date cards or invitations. This will allow anyone with restrictions to give you ample warning so that it can be addressed with caterers in advance.
DIY Forgetful Minds
Finally, you’re probably most stressed about forgetting something important on the day of your wedding. Whether it is something major like tips for the vendors or something small like an accessory you wanted to include in your outfit, you can reduce your stress levels by making a simple checklist. More often than not, a list that you can refer to when putting yourself together on the morning of your event can work wonders toward ensuring you bring each and every item you require.
These are just a few of the problems you are likely to encounter when planning for your big day. In order to feel confident in your decisions and reduce the odds of a surprise disaster, put together a strategy that covers all the mistakes you’re most likely to experience.
In an age when you can take care of almost any task imaginable from the convenience of your phone, the idea of paying for certain services can seem foolish. This is often the mindset of many couples when it comes to hiring a wedding planner. The idea is that there are enough free apps and planning resources available online for couples to take on the task without any external influence. Though this seems like logical thinking, it is actually a decision that can lead to a ton of unnecessary stress.
From making your life easier to landing you deals you couldn’t get otherwise, an event planner can be a lifesaver in a variety of ways. Weigh these benefits and see why the decision might be right for you.
Offers Years of Experience
Marriage is meant to be a one-time deal for most people. This means that you likely don’t have any experience in planning an event like this. Though you can find inspiration on the internet and ask others about how to go about certain tasks, you are left to assume that the choices you are making will work out in the end. By hiring a planner, however, you are working with someone who has gone through this process time and time again. This level of experience can be invaluable when it comes to ironing out key details of your big day.
This experience level makes your planner a font of wisdom in many regards. The individual you hire can help you with anything from providing information on how you should tip your vendors to organizing sensible schedules for each goal you must accomplish before your wedding date arrives. Whenever you have a question, you’ll know who to turn to for some clarity.
Delivers Cost-Effective Solutions
A key reason many couples ditch the idea of hiring a planner is because it seems like an unnecessary expense. While it is true you will need to pay a fee for the services, the planner can help your budget in a variety of other ways. Namely, he or she will be able to direct you toward cost-effective solutions for almost any idea you come up with. Additionally, the professional world of the wedding industry is remarkably interconnected. A planner can use the connections made throughout his or her career to find you impressive deals and discounts.
Takes Care of Annoying Challenges
A large chunk of the obstacles a couple has to deal with while planning a wedding are minor things that slowly become more annoying. From arranging the seating chart to keeping vendors in the loop, you’ll find yourself pulling out your hair as these simple tasks slowly transform into points of major stress and contention. However, hiring a planner allows you the luxury of delegating responsibilities to someone who can handle them far better. This solves the problem outright and massively reduces how irritated you become while planning.
Organizes Everything for You
Along the same line of handling annoying tasks, the planner is also the person who can keep all of your information organized throughout the planning phase. Instead of littering your desk with vendor contracts, contact info for the venue, receipts, and to-do lists, your planner can compile everything for you. Should you forget about an appointment with your florist or need to book a consultation with a potential stylist, you’ll have the equivalent of a personal assistant providing you with all pertinent details related to your wedding.
While it definitely can seem like you’ll save money by foregoing the wedding planner entirely, this is not quite the truth. Weigh your options and see how bringing a professional into the mix can help save you a good chunk of change and keep you in the best spirits throughout the entire process.
As the world continues to turn, love continues to bloom between couples all over the globe. While the past year and a half and have dramatically altered many aspects of our lives, two hearts continue to come together, resulting in a lifelong pledge to love each other for better or worse. While love springs eternal, wedding ceremony trends continue to shift and evolve for many, including Canadians. Here are some to keep an eye on, especially if you plan to tie the knot soon.
Simpler NuptialTrends
Where time and budget allow, the over-the-top lavish ceremony will never truly go away; however, there is definitely a trend toward more relaxed, understated luxury. Many couples will say farewell to formal, black-tie affairs and hello to laid-back weddings that feel more like fun get-togethers with families and friends. Think of alfresco nuptials in a cozy garden setting with an emphasis on simple, natural fabrics and finishes instead of the glitz and glamor of precious metals, gems and crystal. Put a ring on it, kick off your shoes and tuck a stalk of your favorite wildflower behind your ear as you head to the altar.
Multi-Day Celebrations
Traditionally, weddings take place on one day, with the reception immediately after or later the same day. A global pandemic has made many couples re-imagine their one big day as several special days with events spread throughout. Imagine a weekend with different events involving guests from your various social circles. From bowling to a backyard party to a Sunday brunch, a multi-day celebration provides you the opportunity to host casual yet intimate functions that are more accommodating to the various people who are happy to celebrate this new phase of life with you.
Trends;Everything Old, Very Little New
A growing trend with weddings is the use of vintage furniture, finishes and fashion. Older furnishings evoke feelings of nostalgia and a love for all things timeless. While the trend of wearing family heirlooms is hardly new, more partners are choosing classic styles that inspire fond recollection of the good old days. This trend isn’t just limited to attire and decor. Look for a classic approach to wedding gifts, menus, invitations and more.
All the Way Live
As couples push for ceremonies that have a relaxed or organic feel, another emerging trend is a push toward the use of live music. From folksy acts that emphasize acoustic guitars and strings to rocking bands with unique renditions of some of the world’s most beloved love songs, a live act brings a sense of accessibility and intimacy that helps to make the celebration special. Do you know singer-songwriters or musicians? Make the wedding even more memorable with a commissioned expression of love in song.
Perfectly Imperfect
When it comes to the big day, a couple may feel pressured to look perfect and have everything just so. Increasingly, many partners are ditching perfection for a more natural approach. Instead of picture-perfect captures of the newlyweds in forced poses, you can expect to see more candid shots that feature the glow of love between the new spouses and the ones who have come together to celebrate them. There’s magic in laughter, embraces, eyes closed in happiness and pure smiles, and capturing these moments is paramount.
Inclusive Celebrations
You can also expect to see ceremonies that are more inclusive and degenderized. Don’t be surprised if you get invited to a ceremony featuring a best woman, a man of honor or grooms-maids. On your very special day, you get to choose who’s in your ceremony. Reception traditions of tossing a bouquet or garter may also go the way of the dodo in modern celebrations.
The weddings of tomorrow will continue to shift and change as society progresses. More couples are choosing to prioritize simplicity and comfort. The joy of marriage is in the journey, and many star-crossed voyagers are setting a course for relaxation over fuss.
A newly solemnized union is definitely a cause for celebration, leading to a wedding reception as the perfect opportunity to party with loved ones. After all, this will be the first day of the rest of your life and there’s nothing quite like a reception to kick things off. Dancing is a must at your reception, and when it comes to important choices, forget the chicken or the fish. It’s all about the music, and you need to decide on your source of entertainment. Should you go with a live band or a DJ? Here are some things to consider.
Putting First Things First
As with other reception details, you need to consider your budget and what works for your set of plans. You’ll probably spend more on a good live band than you will for a good DJ, but in both cases, you get what you pay for. It’s important to research potential musicians or DJs beforehand. Look for YouTube videos and client reviews, which a good live band or DJ will have. If you’ve enjoyed the entertainment at a loved one’s reception or other celebration, you can ask for referrals. Your best choices will be professional and have a “resume” and set pricing plan.
Choosing a Live Band
Some considerations for having live music at your reception include the following:
Crowd Participation: A great band doesn’t just play music well; they also know how to put on a show that engages your audience. A reception is a celebration with your nearest and dearest, and a band that knows how to keep the party “live” helps make your event more fun.
Versatility: A live band can help set the mood throughout the entire event. They can provide ceremony music as well as background music for toasts, bouquet tosses and more.
Stylistic Diversity: Some bands specialize in one type of genre and sound, while others have a more diverse repertoire to work with. This should be a major factor in your decision.
Venue Space: Generally, a band needs a stage as well as space for using and storing instruments and equipment.
Previous Performance Footage: Again, really good bands will have recordings of past performances for you to see how they sound and how well they were received.
Going With a DJ
If you’re looking for someone to get the party jumping, ponder these things:
Perfect Playlist: Good DJs will work with you to come up with a curated playlist of songs to keep the energy high. If there are certain songs that you want to include for group fun, like Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline,” you can make requests ahead of time.
Reception Only: DJs are generally hired to provide reception music, so you will need alternate plans for the wedding ceremony.
Available Space: The average setup won’t take as much room as that of a band in most cases. This is important if space comes at a premium at your venue.
Party All the Time: Thanks to technology, DJs can usually play music uninterrupted at length. Bands generally need to take breaks every now and then.
Referrals: Not all DJs are in the habit of recording their gigs, but every potential supplier should be able to provide client references.
Double Duty: Unlike classic hip-hop, some DJs are also great emcees. If you need one to pull double duty, keep that in mind when evaluating your choices.
The reception is an important part of your special day. It’s a time when you and your loved ones get to interact and celebrate after you tie the knot. Music is an important element of a reception. Both DJs and live bands can help you set a party atmosphere, but consider their differences as you plan your nuptials.
The decision to have a destination wedding can be a big one. Not only will you be looking at your planning tasks from an entirely different perspective, you also must dedicate extra effort to the financial side of things. There are additional costs attached to hosting your nuptials away from home, so it is wise to plan ahead and create a strategy for covering all expenses. Review these points and formulate a plan that will help you feel excited and prepared for your big day.
Location: Selecting the Destination
Perhaps the biggest factor that will influence the total cost of your destination event is the location you select. The world is a big place, and there are some areas that command a higher price than others. Before you can determine your exact budget for other services, decide where you’d like to hold your wedding. After you’ve picked out a country and venue, you can begin looking at expenses like airline fare, vendors, accommodations, and other details.
Lodging
Before you dive into the costs related to the wedding itself, you’ll find it useful to research your options with lodging. When you’re asking friends and family to travel far from home, it is practical to offer them a decent place to stay. If your wedding is going to take place in or near a popular tourist destination, you’ll find certain venues offer packages and deals for larger groups. While it isn’t necessary for you to cover the expenses for guests, working with the hotel or resort to reserve blocks at a discount is a good idea.
Destination andVendors
Hiring businesses to cover services like catering, entertainment, and photography for your wedding can be difficult under normal circumstances. With destination events, the challenge becomes a bit more complicated. Since you’re likely not as familiar with the area as you are with your home community, you won’t have an immediate knowledge of your options. Some couples find it useful to work with professional planners or venue managers to arrange certain services. This can save you a good amount of time and a lot of effort, though it may cost you a bit more in some areas for the convenience.
Decorations
One small problem you may encounter when planning a destination event is decor. If you have to board a plane, the last thing you want is to travel with extra luggage containing decorations. What’s more, you may not have the luxury of being able to rush out to the store to grab whatever supplies you need after you arrive. Again, this is a situation where you’ll find it is best to work with your venue manager. Usually, the representative of the venue can coordinate this side of the event for you and make the space look however you’d like.
Unique Experiences
If you’re traveling with a very small group for your nuptials, you may want to go above and beyond with the experience. There is no need to adhere to tradition when you’re abroad, especially when you’re in a new location that offers lots of possibilities. When there are a few days to work with on your itinerary, consider some extra events for your guests. A trip to the local beach, a dinner at a fancy restaurant, or an opportunity to soak up some culture via a museum or theatrical performance can all be fun activities to explore.
Though a destination wedding provides the chance to see a different side of the world during a milestone event in your life, there are some details to work out early on. Focus on the financial side of your event and structure your planning process around the most pressing expenses. With a little research, you’ll have the insight needed to make your nuptials come to life in a way that aligns with your budget.
Music forms the soundtracks to human life. Whether we’re working, playing a game, cooking, out with friends, or anything else, music moves us emotionally and mentally. Your wedding day is no different. Just like colors and brushstrokes craft a painting’s finer details, music can shape the mood and color of your event. This short guide explains what you need to know about reception music. You’ll also see some great tips for picking songs you and your guests will love.
Tunes for Your Cocktail Hour
Cocktail hour is a transition between your ceremony and reception dinner. With that in mind, the music should help your guests get into the mood. Expert Kristi Kellogg suggests selections that are uplifting but still promote a more relaxed vibe. Keep the slower songs for dinner hour or key moments on the dance floor. Faster songs are best after dinner hour’s over.
You’ll need about an hour’s worth of music, depending on your event’s schedule. Ideally, the cadence, speed, and volume should allow your guests to easily carry on conversations with the music going.
A Little Dinner Music, Maestro
Your budget may have room for music during dinner, supplied by your DJ or band. Martha Stewart Weddings mentions that it can add ambiance to the meal. Your guests can relax and enjoy their cuisine — just like you do when you’re dining out. When booking your entertainer of choice, you should inquire about additional costs for live music or a dinnertime playlist. Make sure it’s reflected in your price and your contract before you sign on the dotted line.
While you’re negotiating with your entertainers, don’t forget to discuss how dinner music will impact breaks and meals for your entertainers. This vendor etiquette guide from Brides offers useful advice on scheduling. Entertainers may want to eat during your cocktail hour and take shorter breaks during your wedding toasts. Another Martha Stewart Weddings piece suggests coordinating with your wedding planner and vendors on a break schedule.
Once you’ve elected to play dinner music, you must next decide what to play. You can collaborate with your entertainer to come up with ideas. If you’re working with a live band, the members may have some dinner standards they like to play. DJs also have some go-to selections for mealtime music. Avoid anything that’s super-loud or energetic — jazz, instrumentals, romantic songs, and anything with soft vocals are good choices.
Songs for Important Moments
Cocktail hour and dinner help create the mood. But specific songs punctuate key moments during your reception. The best way to choose those songs, says Wedding Wire Canada’s Alice Prendergast, is collaborating with your band or DJ. Don’t try to select all this music on your own. What’s more, you don’t want to finalize your selections without chatting with your entertainers.
When you’re picking special songs for your event, having a checklist can be helpful. In another Wedding Wire Canada article, Prendergast provides a comprehensive list of key moments during the reception. You have the entrance plus the first couple’s and parent-child dances. Meanwhile, you’ll want to keep some other reception music details in mind. You can combine the entrance and first dance, for instance, and use one song for this vital moment. Of course, that depends on if or how your DJ or bandleader introduces the rest of your entourage — your parents, the wedding party, and so forth. Certified wedding planner Judit Covarrubias Garcia clarifies that these introductions are optional.
Music to Your Ears
Details are key when you’re designing your wedding. If you’re like many couples, you’ll take time and care picking your music. Work with your DJ or band to construct playlists for cocktail hour and dinner, plus vital moments like the first dance and cake cutting. Keeping the mood and moment in mind will also help your special day be even more memorable.
COVID-19 has certainly changed Canadians’ lives. Many now focus on simplicity and economy in areas, including planning their weddings. They’re ditching elaborate details for elegant, minimalist, and less expensive alternatives. If you want gorgeous wedding flowers with less cost, time, and hassle, keep reading. Some great tips offer more streamlined approaches for achieving your wedding-day vision.
Perfect as a Pair
Several factors can impact the price of your wedding flowers. But simpler orders are often less expensive and easier for your florist to work with. That’s why The Knot’s Lauren Kay suggests sticking with only two kinds of flowers. As she explains, your florist spends less when buying in bulk. And that can translate to bigger savings for you. Try choosing blooms in similar shapes, sizes, and colors – this helps your florist achieve a unified look for your arrangements.
Simple Yet Elegant
Another great suggestion comes from personal finance expert Jennifer Calonia: Choose simpler arrangements. In her MyWalletJoy blog post, she mentions that your florist can create a sophisticated look without the need for huge and elaborate arrangements. A few stems in a glass bottle, for instance, can elevate any table décor. And your florist can craft them to match your event’s style. Olivia Muenter shows some rustic, boho, and traditional flower/bottle centerpieces in a September 2020 Brides article.
Mixing and MatchingFlowers
Must all your flower arrangements match? Absolutely not, according to Calonia. Simple and inexpensive doesn’t have to mean uniform or boring. Some great examples include varying tall and short centerpieces and using candles in some arrangements. This approach gives your florist more creative leeway, but it can also cut your total costs.
Year-Round Flower Favorites
Couples often focus seasonally when designing their weddings. That said, it’s worth considering some flower varieties that are available the entire year. The Spruce’s Nina Callaway lists several excellent options – gardenias, garden roses, orchids, and gladiolas, to name a few. If you must reschedule your big day, your florist can still get these blooming beauties.
If you’re concerned about cost, you needn’t worry. While gardenias and orchids are expensive, other varieties fall in low- to mid-range price tiers. As a compromise, you can pair a pricier stem with a less costly one. Talk to your florist for suggestions.
Callaway also mentions carnations in her list. They’re a polarizing choice for many thanks to their reputation as a “cheap filler flower.” But they don’t have to be, as Taysha Murtaugh points out in a Country Living piece. They’re hardy, available in many shades, and can create chic arrangements when clustered together. If you’re needing inspiration, check out some exquisite bouquets in this January 2021 Brides writeup.
From Ceremony to Reception
Creative couples are also repurposing their wedding ceremony flowers for their receptions. Martha Stewart Weddings explains how this can work. You’ll need a smart plan and cooperation with your florist or event planner to pull it off. Some ceremony arrangements can double as décor on the welcome or buffet tables. Large arrangements can sit near the head table to add some drama. Some ceremony chair décor can be shifted to reception chairs with a few modifications. To aid in your planning, take a look at Wedding Wire Canada’s guide to reception flowers by Alice Prendergast.
Weddings are joyful and memorable events, but their planning requires time and attention to detail. Maybe you’re a cost-conscious couple or rescheduling a postponed celebration. Perhaps you don’t have the time or energy to mind all the complicated minutiae. Fortunately, some simpler approaches can make it easier to choose your flower arrangements. From carefully curated choices to repurposed arrangements, you can accomplish an elegant, stylish, and cohesive look for your big day.
Alcohol tends to play a big part in many weddings. From toasting to the happy couple to providing encouragement to family members looking to dance, the right libations can take your event to the next level. The trouble plenty of couples experience is trying to pick out drinks that will please a large crowd. Individual drinking preferences tend to vary greatly from one person to the next. In order to make your guests happy and not spend a small fortune, you want to limit your bar to a few key selections.
Wine is one of the easiest options available when you’re looking for drinks that will satisfy a large group. However, you still need to put some thought into the type of wine you pick. Look over these tips and learn more about how you can find the right wine for your big day.
Understand the Basics
First and foremost, you should have some concept of wine basics before you start your search. If you’re someone who prefers liquor or beer, then you could be clueless about wine. The simplest point to understand is that red and white varieties are the most popular. Still, you won’t be able to get away with having one or the other. You should always offer at least one red and one white at the bar. Which varieties you pick, of course, will come down to a few other factors.
Consider the Season
For some couples, the influence of the season plays a huge part in planning a wedding. Everything from floral arrangements to decor will be selected based on the time of year the event will take place. The wine can be chosen using the same mentality. If you’re getting married in the winter, for example, some experts advise selecting a red that keeps the drinker warm and toasty. Similarly, a spring wedding can be great for a white with fruity or floral notes to it.
Look at Your Menu
Another helpful strategy when it comes to picking wine for your wedding is considering your exact menu. It is no secret that specific wine options pair well with certain meals. A menu featuring seafood will usually be complemented by wines with a lighter feel. Meanwhile, couples serving beef will find that reds like a pinot noir can bring out the best flavors when the two are paired together. Work with your caterer if you need advice on which wines will work best with the menu to make the most efficient selections.
Explore a Variety of Wine
You don’t need to feel obligated to select only a single type red and white wine either. In fact, some couples find it easier to order an assortment of bottles in the same price range. There are many online distributors that will sell mixed crates of wines at a low cost, allowing you the option to find a fun assortment without breaking the budget. However, having a lot of variety limits the quantity of each type you buy. Weigh the pros and cons before ordering any “variety packs” and see what’s best.
Determine the Amountof Wine
Determining how many bottles of wine you will need can be a very big challenge. Factors that will influence the final number include how many guests will be present, the cost per bottle, and what other alcohol options will be offered. Some experts suggest ordering one bottle of wine for every guest you are inviting. Though this method can cover you in a lot of ways, this particular strategy might not be the best approach for all couples.
Ordering wine for a wedding can be a bigger decision than many couples realize. Review how to find the perfect bottles for your big day and feel confident in the choices you make.
