Lots of love, Susan

Perfect Pairings: Yummy Wedding Cocktails

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 12 Jun 2016 22:47:00 +0000

Cheerful greetings to all Lots of Love Readers!

One of the challenges of putting together an awesome wedding party is in ensuring that everybody will have a great time. It's always a fun idea getting guests to move around and mingle. And what better way to do that than having an engaging conversation over cocktails.

Cocktails, though not a required part of a wedding, is a great way of managing the lull moment that comes after the ceremony and before the party. If wedding ceremony is on a separate location from the reception. While waiting for the party to start, you can keep people entertained with a light snack that will get their palates ready for the sumptuous feast that lies ahead.

Here are 15 food+drink combinations you can during cocktails:

For an early morning wedding, you can start off with some (spiked) coffee and some donut holes.

A light snack of chicken cups and soda

Beef and beer Hors D'oeuvres

Healthy treat of chilled English pea and cucumber tea sandwich

Something fancy: Caviar served in bread spoons paired with a shot of vodka

Light and fruity: Apple and walnut paired with champagne

Serve your favorite snack: Fish and chips

French toast and iced apple cider

Have some cookie and milkshake

Hotdog rolls and beer

Bloody Mary and shrimp

Mini burger sliders and a local brew

Taco and Margarita

Fried oysters and blood orange mojito

Grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup

Lots of Love,

Susan

Photo Credits: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16

Oui to a French Inspired Wedding

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 27 May 2016 02:48:00 +0000

Happy greetings to all our Lots of Love Readers!

Paris is hailed as the city of love. No wonder, it is one of the most visited places on the planet. Lovers and single people alike flock and enjoy everything that it has to offer - its romantic sights, sounds, food and people.

If your dream destination wedding in France is not on the table, you can bring France to where you are. With some research, planning and advice from a competent and experienced wedding coordinator, you can put together a memorable French inspired wedding.

Here are several French inspired wedding elements to complete your wedding repertoire:

Sweet scented wedding invitation and stationery with French inscriptions.

The boho chic bride with tulle and lace wedding dress and veil

Glammed-up bridesmaids in sequinned dresses

A warm welcome sign at the wedding reception.

Identically dressed flower girls throwing petals on the path leading to the altar

All white wedding canopy adorned with a chandelier

Floral centerpieces inspired by French scents and perfumes

A centerpiece paying homage to the Eiffel tower

Serve fruit and cheese plates for your guests' indulgence

Treat guests with warm chocolate drink

Monochromatic table setting with candelabras, flowers and candle accents

An outdoor garden wedding reception

French confectioneries

Ask guests to tuck in their wedding messages and wishes on an Eiffel tower card holder.

A French wedding is never complete without a champagne tower.

In true French tradition, the ball opens with the dance of the bride and her father.

Another French tradition is making lots of noise when welcoming the newlyweds at the wedding reception or sending them off to their honeymoon.

Thus the tying of tin cans at the back of the bridal car, traditionally to lead guests to the venue of the wedding party.

A picturesque wedding cake

You can go all out and have a croquembouche for a wedding cake. These are buns filled with custard and held together by toffee forming a cylindrical or pyramid shape.

For souvenir, there is nothing more French than a miniature replica of the Eiffel Tower.

You may also stay true with tradition and give away sugar coated almonds.

Lots of Love,
Susan

Photo Credits: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21,22

What's to Love About Brunch Weddings

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 07 Apr 2016 02:36:00 +0000

Happy Greetings to all!

If you are a morning person, you would definitely love to start your day preparing for your wedding. As the name suggests, brunch is a combination of breakfast and lunch. Brunch weddings usually happen during mid-morning and could extend up to early afternoon. It's catching on among wedding trend favorites and here are some reasons why...

It is a great way to start the day.

You can go a little less formal and have fun in short dresses.

You can take advantage of the good weather for the wedding reception

and wedding ceremony

Be serenaded by a string quartet.

It's never too early to indulge in some bellini

Serve espresso shots to kickstart the party

Enjoy your favorite food such as egg and cheese sandwiches

waffles and sliders

fruit and donut skewers

Get everyone on their feet and have an unlimited helping of yoghurt

or cereals

Get creative and opt for a non-traditional wedding cake such as stacked donuts

fruity naked cake

or rustic crepes wedding cake

You can give away mimosas as wedding favors.

Lastly, brunch weddings give you the opportunity to take wonderful pictures all day long.

Lots of Love,

Susan

Photo Credits: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18

Pets at Weddings

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 16 Mar 2016 08:41:00 +0000

Lovely Greetings to all our Lots of Love Readers!

There are people who have developed an affinity for their pets. Being faithful companions, pets are a source of joy, fun and a lot of endearment. And because they are special, a lot of couples make them a part of the important milestones in their lives. And just like close friends and relatives, it is but proper to have the very presence of their pets at the wedding standing witness to their testament of love and commitment as husband and wife.

Here are some of the cutest photos of pets at weddings:

The couple sharing a snapshot with their feline friend

Sweet moment with the llamas

The bride bonding with her best buddy

An endearing photo of the groom and his furry pal.

The sweet couple together with their favorite bunny.

Other than being a guest at the wedding, pets can also take on several wedding duties:

They make the cutest addition to any save-the-date wedding announcement.

As pet-of-honor, he should look cute and groomed for the occasion.

Trained dogs can serve as flower bearer

one of the groom's men

and even as ring bearer

She makes an adorable companion for the little ones walking down aisle

He can have his moment walking down the aisle carrying the "Here comes the bride" sign

Their cutest tricks make photo shoots more interesting

Exciting as it sounds, planning a wedding involving pets is not as easy as a walk in the park. With pets, you have to be prepared for anything and everything. You have to put thought on their needs and their temperament for things to go without any hitch.

Here are some tips on how you, your pets and guests can enjoy your wedding celebration:

Consider your pet's temperament. Not all pets are sociable. Observe your pet's behavior. If being in a crowd is making it jittery, that should give you a preview of how things will be on your wedding day.
Work with a sitter. You will not have the time to attend to your pet's need with all the many things running through your mind on your wedding day. And it would be unfair to pass on the burden to your family members and friends who would be busy with their respective assignments. Having a pet wedding attendant who knows his or her way around pets will ensure that your pet will be well provided for and its needs taken cared of for the whole duration of the celebration.

Factor in your pet's needs in the wedding plan. If you are hiring a wedding coordinator, you have to let them know that you want to involve your pets in the wedding so they can check on several things like if the location of your choice allow pets and have pet-friendly facilities. They would also have to inform their vendors about it so there won't be any surprises.
Give everyone a heads up about your plan. As a show of courtesy to your guests, inform them ahead of time that your pets will be joining the wedding celebration. You would not want to deal with allergies or unfriendly stares to spoil the most important day of your life.
Aim for picture perfect. Hire a photographer who love animals or at least have some experience taking pictures of people and their pets. That should give you an assurance that you will have the pictures that will showcase how you and everyone else, your pets included, had fun at your wedding.

Lots of Love,
Susan

Photo Credits: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17

Wedding Color Inspiration: Snorkel Blue

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 12 Mar 2016 15:03:00 +0000

Happy greetings, everyone!

The color blue mean a lot of different things. It connotes peace and tranquility as in the color of the fair-weather sky. It is regarded as a symbol of purity, love and loyalty. Thus the tradition of having something blue every bride should bring with her during her wedding day.

Snorkel blue is an exciting hue from the navy family. It exudes a happier and energetic vibe. It can also channel a relaxing mood, the kind of feeling that lingers when one is enjoying a vacation or a weekend getaway. This vibrant shade of blue made it to the list of Pantone's Top 10 Colors for Spring 2016.

Here are some gorgeous wedding details in Snorkel Blue:

Eye-catching wedding invitation with a dab of color and cool cursive font.

In honor of tradition, a bouquet of blue flowers for the bride

The dashing groom in an exciting blue suit.

The bride looking immaculate flocked by her bridesmaids in ethereal blue dresses

For a beach wedding, get the flower girls to carry a pail of flowers instead of basket

The wedding aisle looking all majestic draped with blue fabric and accentuated with chandelier

Simplicity is beauty. Hang clear jars with blue and white hydrangeas along the aisle.

Just because floral walls are expensive does not mean you cannot have an awesome backdrop for the wedding ceremony or reception. A wall of white and blue pompoms could do the trick.

Entertain your guests with some drinks and aperitifs in cocktail tables dressed up in blue

Add some drama by hanging escort cards on a tree

Shower the newlyweds with hydrangea confetti

Lighting effects put the grand in the grand wedding reception venue

Create interesting centerpieces that will start up a conversation at the wedding reception

Adorn tables with deep colored blue flower centerpieces

It's all in the presentation. Use simple elements such as candles, flowers, china and linens to create a royal table setting

Add fancy details such as snorkel blue table napkins that's worth noticing.

Add a little something that will wow your guests like this timepiece giveaway that doubles up as a place card.

A handy giveaway that will definitely come in handy after a night of partying

A candy buffet that will keep guests coming back for more.

Debut a colored wedding cake that will take a center stage at the wedding reception.

Lots of Love,

Susan

Photo Credits: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21

Wedding Confetti Ideas

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 27 Feb 2016 02:12:00 +0000

Sweet greetings everyone!

Tossing confetti at the newlyweds is a common sight at weddings. This age-old practice traces its roots in Great Britain. Back in the days, guests toss rice onto the newlyweds as a symbol of fertility. The Italian version involved showering the couple with sugared almonds. Eventually, this tradition found its way in all parts of the globe and took on different versions among different cultures.

Wedding confetti comes in various shapes, sizes, color and texture. In today's weddings, we see a lot of options for confetti as well as fun and exciting alternatives. Here are some interesting and popular choices that will certainly win your heart.

Daisy chain confetti add a summer feel to a wedding regardless of season

Throw in some lavender for luck and devotion.

Fresh flower petals like delphinium make an awesome, light and sweet smelling confetti

Bird seeds make a great confetti option for a garden or outdoor wedding. You do not have to worry about the after-party clutter. In fact, you are leaving something for our feathery friends to enjoy.

Cornfetti that guests could munch on, if not toss away to send off the newlyweds.

Spread the love with paper heart confetti

Repurpose old books into punch hole art confetti

Colorful paper strips add to the festive mood of the occasion

Get starstruck with starry, glittery stardust confetti

Fun party poppers for everyone

Shower the newlyweds with light and airy pompoms

Instead of the traditional confetti, try fun alternatives such as bubbles

And paper twirls

For green weddings, you can opt for this cool new thing called Ecofetti, a water-soluble, non-staining and biodegradable option which dissipates in the air after use.

Lots of Love,

Susan

Photo Credits:1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15

Sweet Dessert Ideas for Weddings

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 21:49:00 +0000

Sweet greetings everyone! One of the things that guests look forward to when they attend weddings, other than celebrating the union of two people in love is the company of friends and family. And like any wedding, there is nothing sweeter than ending a wedding feast with some sweet indulgence. Everybody loves desserts and at weddings, it does not always have to be the wedding cake. These days, people are getting more creative and more liberal about turning their wedding into a statement of everything that they love most. As such, it is also a chance to share with everyone the couple's favorite desserts.

Here are some sweet treats that are finding its way to wedding banquets as an alternative if not to complement to the traditional wedding cake:

Whoopie pies in every flavor and color

Campfire Smores that bring back fun-filled memories

A delightful selection of meat and fruit pies

Guilt-free helping of fruit kebabs

Delectable fruit cups with gelato or whipped cream topping

Fancy jell-o and marshmallow shots with golden sugar dust

Simple marshmallow coated dessert pops

Rice crispies dipped in white chocolate

Beat the heat with exciting Popsicle flavors

Waffle wonders with whipped cream and fruit toppings

Warm and hearty milk and cookie combo

Say Cheese!

Savor the goodness of gelato

Lots of Love,

Susan

Photo credits: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14

Butterfly Inspired Wedding

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 04 Feb 2016 11:25:00 +0000

Happy greetings everyone!

Butterflies symbolize new beginnings. Its vibrant colors make it a very popular theme for spring and summer weddings. We've put together a collection of butterfly-inspired wedding elements for you to draw inspiration from:

Wedding invitation with embossed butterfly details.

A cathedral train wedding dress with butterfly appliques.

Add butterfly accents to the wedding veil to make it extra special

Pin butterfly accents on the bride's bouquet

Instead of flowers, go for a vibrant bouquet of butterflies

Romantic hairdo with butterfly hair accessories

Lovely bridal shoes with charms and crystals.

Matching fashion rings for the bridesmaids

Playful floral crowns for the flower girls.

Indoor garden set-up complete with plants and butterflies for the wedding ceremony

A wedding ceremony under a thousand and one butterflies

Butterfly release ceremony to pay tribute to the newlywed's dearly departed

Colorful butterfly centerpieces

Simple table centerpiece of hydrangeas with butterfly accents

Lighting effects add a magical touch to a wedding reception

Ombre heart wall art fitting for a wedding ceremony or reception

Fancy escort cards with butterfly details

Floating butterfly place cards

Eye-catching cake design for a woodland wedding

Elegant wedding cake and cupcake display

Share some sweets as wedding favors

Delight guests with these super cool butterfly-designed wine stoppers

Capture those picture perfect moments with the butterfly wings as props

Lots of love,

Susan

Photo Credits: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21,22,23,24

Hand-painted Wedding Ideas

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 28 Jan 2016 09:24:00 +0000

Festive greetings to everyone!

Colors make any celebration look more vibrant and fun. It have the power to transform the mood of ordinary ballroom into something festive, elegant or romantic. Wedding motifs are not limited to one or two colors. If you have a flare for the arts, you can transform your wedding into a showcase of visually appealing decorations and designs in various colors.

In this age of computerization, hand-painting seem to be a thing of the past. But it it this very characteristic that makes it more appealing. Here are some ideas on how you can showcase hand-painted elements at a wedding:

Floral accents on a wedding invitation.

A daintier take on Angelina Jolie's wedding dress: A simple ball gown transformed into a elegant wedding dress with hand-painted floral details.

An ink-splattered bouquet.

The bridesmaids donning hand-painted dresses.

Hire an artist to paint the wedding ceremony.

Go industrial chic by saying your vows with a paint-splattered backdrop.

Hand-painted signs all throughout the wedding reception venue

Escort cards that make a perfect bookmark keepsake from your wedding.

Instead of vases, layer floral arrangements on hand-painted blocks of varying sizes.

Romantic table setting with linens and napkins in serenity and rose quartz color combo.

Ombre chair covers

Serve up a sumptuous buffet for your guests to feast on

Colorful menu cards

In lieu of the unity candle, try unity painting instead.

Stunning wedding cake with gold-painted embellishments

Serve colorful drinks and thirst quenchers.

Have guests sign their names on a canvas with colorful details.

Give away miniature artworks as wedding favor.

Hand-painted glass candle holders are popular as well.

Thank your bridesmaids and maid of honor for all their help by giving them hand-painted clutch purse.

A just married sign which you can bring home and display in your home after the wedding.

Lots of love,

Susan

Photo Credits:1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21,22

Fiesta Red Wedding

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 17 Jan 2016 00:06:00 +0000

Colorful greetings everyone! Spring is a season full of promises. In places with four seasons, it is a welcome reprieve from the cold winter days. It ushers rebirth with flowers beginning to bloom and nature slowly coming to life.

Spring is a great season for weddings.It provides a great opportunity to plan an outdoor wedding taking advantage of the natural backdrop of the woodland, the beach or the park. For 2016, spring is all about color trends that, as Pantone suggests, transcends gender and cultural norms. Spring color trends for year is a collection of vivid brights that give way to excitement and optimism and subdued hues that exude quiet stability.

One of the exciting colors of spring is Fiesta. It is an exciting and fun shade of red that adds a pop to the soft and calm colors of spring. Fiesta is a great wedding motif on its own, but also pairs well with Snorkel Blue, Green Flash and Limpet Shell.

Here is a selection of wedding elements in Fiesta Red:

Spice up the usual wedding invitation with floral prints and embellished fonts.

Pay tribute to the flowers of spring by donning a flower crown headdress

Add a splash of color to the groom's suit with a red bow tie and floral boutonniere.

Vibrant bouquet of spring flowers

The bridesmaids all gorgeous in vibrant Fiesta red dresses

Scatter petals and tuck bouquet of red flowers on chairs along the aisle

Shower the newlyweds with sweet smelling floral confetti

Guide your guests to their seats using color coded pins.

Interesting table centerpiece using red lanterns

Romantic centerpiece of candelabra and taper candles.

Creative display of red flowers showcased in tall glasses

Simple yet eye-catching centerpiece of red flowers bunched up on a vase

What is more fun than having red Tiffany chairs at the wedding reception?

Red linens add to the festive mood of the occasion

Arrange flowers in vases of varying heights and shapes

Amp up the romance with tall floral arrangements and candles

Indulge in a signature cocktail concoction.

Naked cakes are a popular choice for spring weddings. A decadent red velvet cake embellished with red anemones is not one to disappoint.

Adorn the traditional white wedding cake with a flower in vibrant red.

Serve up candies for everyone to enjoy and take home as wedding favor

Share your favorite seasoning as wedding favor.

Lots of Love,

Susan

Photo Credits: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21,22

Travel Themed Wedding

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 08 Jan 2016 07:01:00 +0000

Happy Greetings Everyone!

You love to travel with you partner and your dream wedding is on a beach in Hawaii or a villa in Spain. But since a wedding getaway is not on the table, your best option is to bring the destination to your wedding. Planning a travel-themed wedding is fun. It gives you a chance to let your wedding guests in on the many things that you and your partner have enjoyed during your travels.Here are some gorgeous ideas for a travel-themed wedding:

Give your friends and relatives something to be excited about with your Save the Date.

Set the tone for everything starting with the wedding invitation.

Carry the travel theme to the bridal shower

Repurpose old maps and transform them into quirky boutonnieres for the groom and the groom's men

and bouquet for the bridesmaids

Dress up the humble ring pillow to blend in with the travel theme

Place a funky sign at the beginning of the wedding aisle

Make the world map as your backdrop at the wedding reception

Seating chart with a map on the background

Treat your guests to your favorite foods from all over the globe.

Decorate the couple's table with old suitecases

For a vintage appeal, decorate one corner of your reception venue with stacked suitecases and travel mementos.

Use names of cities and places that you have been too as table markers.

Showcase your travel photos as table centerpiece

Create an interesting centerpiece by adding some travel books, a globe and other trinkets from you travels to the usual floral arrangement

Transform postcards from your favorite destinations into table numbers .

A glitzy wedding cake with the map of the world

Guests will definitely be awed with this cake topper.

In lieu of the money dance, you can ask your guests to contribute to your honeymoon fund instead.

You can give away coasters with a compass design as wedding favors.

Or you can wrap simple treats in travel themed boxes.

Set-up a Photo booth where your guests can take souvenir photos from your wedding complete with props and accessories.

Lots of love,

Susan

Photo Credits: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21,22,23

2016 Color of the Year: Rose Quartz and Serenity (2 of 2 Parts)

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 29 Dec 2015 03:36:00 +0000

Cool greetings to everyone!

Here is the second part of our 2016 Color of the Year article. In the previous post, we talked about rose quartz - a mineral with a pale pink to red rose hue with a subtle tone that conveys compassion and a sense of composure. Now, we will talk about its partner for color of the year - serenity.

It is impossible not to take into a liking for any shade of blue. And serenity is not one to dismiss. Pantone Color Institute Executive Director, Leatrice Eiseman describes Serenity as a weightless and airy color that can be likened to the blue sky. Its calming effect provides comfort and a feeling for respite even in turbulent times. Serenity provides a innate connection to nature with its transcendent blue hue. The calming blue color of Serenity works well on its own but it can also be paired with other colors such as buttercup yellow, snorkel blue, peach echo and of course rose quartz.

Here are some awesome wedding details in Serenity:

The use of cool fonts, calligraphy or a great penmanship adds a touch of creativity to any wedding invitation

Rock a wedding dress in blue hue to take care of your "Something Blue"

If the shoe fits, it definitely will go well under a white wedding dress.

The dashing groom in blue suit.

Simple white bouquet peppered with blue flowers.

Simplicity is beauty in this bouquet of hydrangeas.

Pretty ladies in blue bridesmaid dresses.

Wedding aisle lined with blue flowers that reflect the blue sky above.

Hang blue and white flowers on clear vases

Go for linens that create a calming atmosphere at the wedding reception.

Add some drama with runners draped over the couple's table.

Opt for clean and simple table setting.

For a big wedding reception, you can go for for a multi-tiered wedding cake which you can share with your guests.

Or you can go with cupcakes for guests to enjoy or take home after the party.

Serve up a blue champagne cocktail with two parts Hpnotiq and two parts champagne to add some pizzazz to the occasion.

Lots of Love,

Susan

Photo Credits: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15

2016 Color of the Year: Rose Quartz and Serenity (1 of 2 Parts)

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 16 Dec 2015 05:14:00 +0000

Happy Holidays, everyone! We look forward to what is head of us as we usher another exciting and fun-filled year for weddings and special occasions. Pantone, the authority on color trends, has recently released the color that will rule over fashion, decor and designs for 2016. It will all be about rose quartz and serenity. This is the very first time that Pantone has identified two colors for its annual announcement. Leatrice Eiseman, the Executive Director of Pantone Color Institute, describes the combination as " an inherent balance between a warmer embracing rose tone and the cooler tranquil blue, reflecting connection and wellness as well as a soothing sense of order and peace. "

This year's choice is a welcome development challenging the traditional perceptions of color association as it transcend cultural and gender norms. For this article, we are featuring wedding elements using these two colors separately and combined.

Rose Quartz (Pantone 13-1520)

Rose quartz is a mineral with a pale pink to red rose hue. Its subtle tone conveys compassion and a sense of composure. Rose quartz provides a respite from busy and strong visual elements of day to day living. It is a great choice for summer and spring weddings. While this color works well on its own, it can also be paired with Peach Echo, Lilac Gray, and of course, Serenity.

Here are some rose quartz wedding details worth considering:

Wedding invitation with elements of lace and flowers.

Stand-out colored wedding dress.

A hint of pink for the groom.

Light and flowing bridesmaid dresses.

Simply pretty ensemble for the flower girl

Bouquet of roses accentuated with pearl pins.

Corsage for the the mothers of the bride and groom.

Sexy-comfy wedding shoes.

Colored linens that create a subtle impact.

Gorgeous chair covers.

Fresh flowers and candle centerpieces.

Floral arrangements that take advantage of blooms in season.

An exquisite rosette wedding cake with intricate floral details.

Leather luggage tags as wedding favors.

Lots of Love,

Susan

Photo Credits: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,

Guide to Being an Awesome Bridesmaid

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 19:57:00 +0000

A wedding is never deemed complete without a wedding entourage. Bridesmaids have been part of the tradition of weddings. Not much is known about its origins but perhaps it was borne out of the need to have witnesses during the ceremony. The Bible cites that in the story of Jacob his two wives Leah and Rachel both came with their own maids during the wedding. Although, they were handmaidens or servants and neither friends nor relatives of the bride and groom. In Roman times, bridesmaids were dressed exactly like the bride. This is said to confuse the evil spirits who want to cause havoc to the happy couple. Also, it is done to ward off vengeful suitors or thugs who want to hurt the bride or steal her dowry. It was not until the wedding of Queen Victoria when bridesmaids began wearing white dresses and short veils to set them a bit apart from the bride.

So what exactly should you expect if you were asked by a friend or a relative to be a bridesmaid at her wedding? Let’s have a look at what is expected of the modern bridesmaid:

The To-Go-to-Girl. The bridesmaid helps the bride accomplish things in her wedding checklist. This includes important stuff like picking the wedding dress and scouting for venue for the pre-wedding photoshoot, the engagement party, the wedding ceremony and reception. It may also involve nitty gritty details that could mean the whole world between an awesome wedding and a memorable one. This may involve stuff like, choosing decorations and favors, helping the bride and the groom with the bridal registry, taking care of wedding invites and finalizing the seating arrangement.

The party planner. Although it is not mandatory, the bridesmaid together with the Maid of Honor do the honors of throwing a Bachelorette party and the bridal shower for the bride. It’s a chance for the girls to have some clean fun before their favorite gal becomes the Mrs. Likewise, the bridesmaid may help out during the rehearsal dinner.

Unwavering Presence and Full Support. The bridesmaid is expected to be present in all of the pre-wedding and wedding day activities. This includes the bridal shower, bachelorette party, bridesmaids’ lunch, rehearsal and rehearsal dinner. And of course, to be with the bride to help her get through her wedding jitters and look her best on her wedding day. Offer the bride some food or water and keep her at ease while waiting for the ceremony to start.

Pitch in on the Cost. Weddings entail cost. And while the bulk of the expenses are to be paid by the couple and their families, the bridesmaids are expected to pay for their dresses (which they get to keep, of course), shoes and travel (if the wedding is happening out-of-town). The bridesmaid, along with the maid of honor, may also chip in for a group wedding or shower gift for the bride. Depending on the couple’s budget, bridesmaids may be asked to pay for hair, make-up, manicure and pedicure during the wedding.

Say Something Nice. While the task of honoring the newlyweds may fall on the maid of honor and the best man, it pays to be ready with an anecdote or two which you could share along with your well wishes for the newlywed couple.

Look Awesome. Being a bridesmaid is a reason to doll up and really look the part. To prepare for the special day, the bridesmaids can organize a bridal shower on a spa to relax and get a mani/pedi. So that during the wedding, they can all feel refreshed and relieved of the stresses of planning the wedding.

Have Fun. The bridesmaid must remember that the wedding is an occasion to celebrate and she is not exempted from having fun. She is expected to mingle with the guests and hit the dance floor along with the rest when the music kicks in. The bridesmaid should also participate in all the wedding day activities including the catching of the bouquet.

Take Pictures. While the couple could opt to hire the services of a photographer, the bridesmaids can take pictures and chronicle the behind the scenes preparations leading to the wedding up to the events that will unfold after the celebration. This will make a great backstory to a great occasion.

Lots of Love,
Susan

Photo credits: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9

Wedding Decor Ideas: Photo Centerpieces

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 27 Oct 2015 08:17:00 +0000

Happy greetings to everyone!

Indeed, a picture could paint a thousand words. We enjoy looking at photos of the groom and bride, how they were as individuals and how they are as a couple in love about to formalize their commitment to each other through marriage. A wedding is a perfect opportunity to provide family and friends a glimpse into the couple's loves story.

In the past, we've featured an article about engagement photos and how they can be showcased at a wedding. For this article, we are giving you another great idea for weddings - Photo centerpieces.

Here is a collection of must-consider adorable photo centerpieces:

The Accordion. A funky way of sharing your favorite couple pictures at the wedding reception.

Make it personal. Wrap flower vases with the couple's pictures .

If you have a flare for drama, make a statement by placing the couple's photos in a cloche.

Give your guests a glimpse of the past by sharing the couple's pictures at every age.

or perhaps, by year.

Simple DIY decor. Transform a mason jar into an interesting centerpiece. Line them with the couple's favorite pictures and adorn with elements that go with the wedding theme or color palette like some twigs and vines for a beach wedding

or music sheets for a music themed wedding.

Illuminated photo frames with battery operated candles make a great centerpiece and wedding giveaway

Share fun facts about the couple in each of the table number photo centerpiece.

How about an artsy photo bouquet of the couple's pictures?

Add a feel of nostalgia by using old soda bottles as vases filled with flowers and pictures.

Create a visual impact with a picture tree centerpiece

Add a rustic polaroid to a shabby chic centerpiece.

Lots of Love,

Susan

Photo Credits: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14

Flower Power: 15 Awesome Wedding Flower Walls

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 03:14:00 +0000

Colorful greetings for all Lots of Love Readers!

Flower walls have been around for a long time now but it has taken a center stage during the wedding of Kanye West and Kim Kardashian. The floor to ceiling white flower backdrop became a sensation overnight and has become an inspiration for many weddings and special occasions.

You too can have your very own flower wall backdrop at your wedding. You can infuse your own creativity and preference to the flowers and plants that you will use to suit your theme, wedding motif or color palette. Here are 15 equally awesome flower walls that you can draw inspiration from:

Pretty in pink and red.

Framed. A picture perfect backdrop for a wedding ceremony.

Bursting with color. An ombre flower wall provides the ideal contrast to the natural greenery in an outdoor wedding.

Artsy installation of bundled flowers arranged in varying heights suspended on a wall.

Bring the outdoors in by mounting some greens on a wall.

Flower vases create texture and add perspective to a flower wall backdrop.

A fitting backdrop for a bohemian wedding - Stringed flowers hanging on a wall.

Wood lattice adorned with flowers give a vintage vibe to a wedding reception.

Repurpose wooden crates into a super cool DIY wedding ceremony backdrop with floral accents

Circles and plants. Guests would definitely enjoy having their pictures taken with this fascinating background.

Simply adorable. Decorate a white wall with ferns and you never have to worry about a boring backdrop.

An air plant curtain can easily become the center of attraction at a garden wedding.

Decorate like a pro. Tuck flowers of different colors and varieties on a wall.

Paper flowers are great substitute for fresh flowers. You can combine it with fabric.

Or you can fill a whole wall with vibrant colored paper flowers to enhance the festive mood of the occasion.

Lots of Love,

Susan

Photo Credits: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16

15 Ways to Spice Up Your Wedding

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 11 Oct 2015 09:11:00 +0000

Happy greetings to all Lots of Love Readers!

Spices make food more interesting and aromatic. It has been at the heart of the culinary world since its discovery. Different cultures value different spices. But in these time of intermarriages and a world without borders, spices have found its place in every home and institution all over the world.

Traditionally, spices play a role in weddings. It is said that during the Middle Ages, wedding guests carry cumin in their pockets, known as a symbol of love and fidelity, as a sign of blessing for the couple. The blending of seven spices is also a unique tradition in Middle Eastern weddings to demonstrate a healthy and well-balanced marriage.

Rosemary for prosperity
Brown sugar for a sweet life
Garlic to keep the couple safe
Savory for balance in their lives
Nutmeg for romance
Paprika for passion
Bay leaf for an extra "spark" of flavor

You too can spice up your wedding by incorporating herbs and spices into your wedding details. Here are some ideas worth considering:

1. A fitting bouquet for an autumn wedding: red roses, apples, butterfly accent and cinnamon sticks.

2. An aromatic boutonniere of rosemary, juniper, laurel leaf, hops, grains, fir and cinnamon.

3. Add an interesting twist to the Unity Ceremony. Instead of using sand, why not use vibrant colored spices?

4. Decorate tables with spices instead of flowers.

5. Accent candles wrapped with cinnamon sticks make an interesting centerpiece.

6. Keep guests warm by serving hot spiced apple cider.

7. Treat guests to a fall favorite - pumpkin spice cake.

8. Adult guests would surely enjoy these yummy Spiced Rum Popsicles

9. For wedding favors, you can give out Infused Olive Oil

10. A salt rub that will be a valuable addition to any kitchen.

11. Spice rub for weekend barbecue parties.

12. Must try mulling spice pack for cider or wine

13. Get them to enjoy your favorite drink at the comfort of their own home by sharing your pumpkin spice latte syrup

14. Seed packets to start their very own herb garden.

15. And live potted plants which can double up as centerpiece or escort cards

Live life with a little spice!

Lots of Love,

Susan

Photo Credits: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17

10 Ring Pillow Alternatives

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 30 Sep 2015 02:45:00 +0000

Happy greetings to all Lots of Love Readers! When you plan weddings, you are always inclined to go with traditional designs and details because they have worked pretty much for everyone. However, if you want your wedding to be something that people will remember for a very long time, you can fill with elements that will separate it from the rest. For instance, the ring pillow. Also known as the wedding ring cushion. It is traditionally a small pillow that is used to carry the rings during Western weddings. You can add a personal touch by letting your ringbearer carry the rings on something out of the ordinary.

Here are 10 ring pillow alternatives worth considering.

Boxed up. Something you can use even after the wedding.

So you won't miss it, you can label which one is for the Mr. and the Mrs.

Especially delivered by your favorite bear.

Something classy and unexpected. The rings hidden on a cane.

Keeping it safe inside a safe guarded by your most trusted ring bearer.

Showcased in a vintage jewelry box.

Give new life to an old book by transforming it into a ring holder.

Something that will go perfectly well on a beach wedding: Rings placed on a shell.

Something creative, a lotus origami with the rings in the middle.

Simply colorful. Pin the rings on a flower of your wedding's motif.

Engraved heart bearing the rings.

Lots of Love,
Susan

Photo Credits: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11

Wedding Details: Ring Bearers

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 21:59:00 +0000

Happy Greeting to all our Lots of Love Readers!

When planning a wedding, getting your family and friends involved in the ceremony or the reception gives it a personal touch. You can always find something for everyone to do on your wedding day. Your besties can of course serve as your bridesmaids and maid of honor. The little girls as flower girls. And those cute nephews, godsons or even your kids can play the important role of ring bearer at your wedding. But what exactly do ring bearers do? As the name suggests, these cute little guys are tasked to carry a pillow that holds the rings of the bride and the groom. Ring bearers are usually boys from age 4 to 8. Although there is no hard and fast rule about it, getting someone who can walk down the aisle without much fuss would really be very much welcomed.

Here are some ways you can spruce up your little helper's participation at your wedding:

Pay homage to Scottish tradition by getting him to wear a kilt.

Be one of the boys. Get him to wear a cool pair of shades.

Something comfy - suspenders, shorts and loafers.

Let him be your personal superhero for the day

A fairy tale wedding filled with your well-loved characters.

Arrive in style. Your ring bearer will definitely enjoy driving to the altar on his personal ride.

Wheeled in. Let him ride on a wagon to the alter during the ceremony.

Instead of marching before the flower girls, getting them to walk the aisle together would be more fun.

Carry a sign. Ain't this the cutest?

Alternately, you can get him to bring a big balloon announcing the bride's entrance.

Add a quirky touch to his attire with the help of an awesome cartoon character boutonniere.

And don't forget to pack some art stuff for him to show your appreciate for his help at the wedding.

You can also get him to do other chores like distribute lollipops to welcome guests at the reception.

Brotherly duties. You can get an older sibling to accompany your little bearer as he walks down the aisle.

Looking dapper in a hat.

Lots of Love,

Susan

Photo Credits: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16

15 Awesome Wooden Box Ideas for Weddings

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 02 Sep 2015 14:18:00 +0000

Happy Greetings everyone!

We're loving how simple decorations are transformed into awesome wedding centerpieces. And today, we are featuring one commonly used garden accessory that has been given a lot of exposure at weddings - the wooden box. They are a common element for garden-inspired, woodland and shabby chic weddings. But they are also gaining popular use in other themed celebrations. It is all about dressing them up and giving them an added personality.

Here are 15 ways you can dress up wooden boxes and transforming them into awesome wedding decorations:

Something old and wonderful. Fill a worn out dresser with hydrangeas in different colors.

Something whimsical. Stack several wooden boxes and transform them into a platform showcasing your whimsical hot air balloon inspired centerpiece.

Something ingenious. Fill a cigar box with coffee beans and top it with candles.

Minimalist. Fill a long wooden box with milk bottles adorned with angel's breath.

Something colorful. Paint wooden boxes with funky colors that match your theme.

Something romantic. Hanging flowers in wooden boxes arranged over the reception tables.

Something charming. Birdcage transformed into lamp shade decorated with pastel colored flowers and arranged in a wooden box.

Alternately place colored mason jars and wood blocks on a long planter box to serve as wedding centerpiece.

Something aromatic. Fill planter boxes with herbs that your guests can take home as souvenir and transplant in their garden.

Something rustic. Succulents and candles make an excellent centerpiece for an outdoor wedding.

Something colorful. Fill boxes with blooms in the color of your wedding motif.

To achieve the rustic chic effect, use wooden boxes with a distressed finish and fill it with flowers in different shades of the same color.

Stick a table number to your wedding centerpiece to guide your guests to their assigned tables.

Something elegant. You can have an all-white wedding reception centerpiece .

Something meaningful. Paint your favorite virtues on plant boxes to serve as table markers.

Even the most simple things can become the most exquisite creation with a little imagination and creativity.

Lots of Love,

Susan

Photo Credits: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17

Hello Kitty Wedding Ideas

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 09:52:00 +0000

Charming greetings to all our Lots of Love Readers!

Sometimes, when you are planning a special celebration like a wedding, you seek inspiration in things that have made a mark in your life. For some, it can be a movie or a trinket from your past. For others, it can be a memorabilia or a favorite childhood character like Hello Kitty.

This adorable kitty has won the hearts of many. Hello Kitty is a fictional character produced by Sanrio, Japan in 1975 and was brought to the United States a year after. Little girls love Hello Kitty and collect Hello Kitty merchandise from dolls, to stationery, mugs and all other stuff. Because of its fan base, the company created theme parks in Japan dedicated to everything Hello Kitty.

Last year there has been a controversy involving Hello Kitty saying that Hello Kitty is a lady and not a cat. It caused great shock and horror to many netizens. But eventually, it panned out after some explanation made by its creators. Despite that, Hello Kitty lovers still remained loyal to the character that they have come to love through the years.

Here are some Hello Kitty stuff that were featured in several Hello Kitty themed weddings:

As a tribute to your favorite fictional character, you can have a Hello Kitty bridal shower filled with everything cute and pink.

Adorable Hello Kitty floral bouquet

Adorn the bridal car with Hello Kitty dolls.

Have a Hello Kitty designed wedding shoes

A cute surprise that can be revealed at the wedding reception - Hello Kitty wedding garter.

You can even have Hello Kitty mascots to escort the newlyweds to the wedding reception

Fun-filled wedding reception backdrop

Create a corner that showcase some pictures of the couple.

Decorate tables with loose petals arranged in Hello Kitty's signature pink bow.

For the rehearsal dinner, you can decorate the tables with everything Hello Kitty, from place mats, place cards and napkins.

The wedding will not be complete without a Hello Kitty themed cake.

Instead of the usual multi-layer cake, you can decorate it with sugar cookies which you can share with everyone at the wedding reception.

Serve pink cocktail drinks in mason jars decorated with Hello Kitty pink bows.

Thank you gift for your bridesmaid and maid of honor - Hello Kitty earrings.

For the mother and mother-in-law, a special gift like a Hello Kitty tea set.

You can give away these specially made picture frames as wedding favors for guests at your wedding.

You can also fill tiny little boxes with your favorite goodies or keepsakes.

"Not every girl is a Hello Kitty Girl, but those who are, are happier."

Lots of Love,

Susan

Photo Credits: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19

Wedding Color Inspiration: Pink and Navy

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 15 Aug 2015 13:46:00 +0000

Warm Greetings to all our Lots of Love Readers!

Summer will soon be over. But before that happens, allow us to share with you another awesome summer wedding color combo: fuchsia and navy. These two contrasting colors combined bring together 2 personalities - the strong character of blue and the pink hue's sweet and sultry appeal.

Here are our choices for a navy and fuchsia wedding :

Something elegant. An invitation that plays with different fonts and an interesting border.

Because it's summer, you have an excuse for having some fun with parasols.

Cheer up the groom's suit with a navy and fuchsia tie.

Something funky - matching socks for the groom and his best men.

Floral bouquet in different shades of pink.

If you are feeling a little creative, you can always make your very own brooch bouquet of your favorite trinkets.

The bridesmaids all pretty in blue and the flower girls all charming in pink.

Create eye-catching centerpieces. Go for navy linens and adorn them with elements in pink like a ball of yarn, candles and flowers propped in tall and short vases.

Have a table setting that highlights your wedding motif. Use pink napkins and blue linens.

Add a wow factor to your wedding reception arrangement. Hang floral decorations and votive candles over reception tables.

Simple and chic. Arrange floral centerpieces in white pots and use photo frames to display table numbers.

Something fancy. Blue goblets and pink flowers arranged in vases of different shapes and sizes.

Add some light treatment to set the mood for a romantic evening wedding reception.

Because you want everyone to have a slice of the cake, why not serve wedding cupcakes in different flavors.

Super cute cake toppers.

Candy buffet for the children and the children at heart.

"A life without love is like a year without summer. " ~ Swedish Proverb

Lots of Love,

Susan

Photo Credits: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16

Wedding Color Inspiration: Papaya and Olive

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 08:42:00 +0000

Happy greetings to all our Lots of Love readers! We love summer weddings. It is a great season to showcase vibrant colors, bask in the sun and indulge in great food and great company. And to set the mood for the festive occasion, we picked a color combination that's cheerful and fun - papaya and olive. This combo made it on The Knot's 4 Hot Summer Color Wedding Combos.

Here are some great tips for putting together an awesome summer wedding in papaya and olive color combo:

Floral patterns make a great accent on a summer wedding invitation.

Go for a vibrant colored bouquet.

Because it is summer and you are having an outdoor or beach wedding,

get your bridesmaids to wear printed dresses.

But if you want something formal, you can opt for tulle skirts in olive.

Add a splash of color to the groom and the groom's men attire with an orange tie.

Simple escort cards in papaya and olive.

Set-up interesting centerpieces. Arrange them in varying heights to add depth to your arrangement.

Opt for patterned napkins and stationery for a lively table setting.

Simple DIY decor - painted bottles topped with limes.

Go for subdued colors for your linens and floral centerpieces that burst with color.

Mix and match patterns, solid prints, flowers, candles and fruits to create an elegant table setting.

Treat guests with scrumptious appetizers like these mini crab cakes with papaya salsa

Give your guests a taste of summer by serving them papaya margaritas.

Beat the heat with some popsicles.

Multi-tier cakes in different flavors are a popular choice for summer weddings.

Favor in a box - pack your favorite treats and share them with your guests.

Lots of Love,

Susan

Photo Credits: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17

20 Creative Ideas for a Book-Inspired Wedding

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 13 Jul 2015 07:45:00 +0000

As the popular song goes, "Love moves in mysterious ways." Indeed, there is no telling when and where love will come to you. Sometimes, love finds you in unfamiliar places. You meet someone, get to know that person and eventually realize that he is the person that you want to spend the rest of your life with. Other times, you find someone that shares your passion and interest like literature and books. And you realize that you just click.

You can celebrate your love for books by making it the central theme of your wedding. Here are 20 creative ways on how you can put together a book-inspired wedding:

Send out an invitation inspired by the lay-out of a book.

Instead of fresh flowers, go for paper flower bouquet as a homage for written materials.

Add a quirky boutonniere to the groom's suit and tie.

Let your favorite books stand witness to your profession of love for one another by transforming bookshelves into an arch for the wedding ceremony.

Alternatively, you can say your vows under a wedding arch made of stacked books.

For an added perspective, decorate the aisle with scattered loose petals and candle lanterns perched on books

Gorgeous backdrop for a wedding ceremony or reception made out of old books framed by vines and flowers.

Floral arrangement on a card catalog stacked on books and surrounded with candles.

Shabby chic centerpiece of large blooms on clear bottles arranged in varying heights with the help of books.

Dress up books and use them as table number displays

Create centerpieces out of books with the same color as your motif

Print your welcome signage on a reprint of your favorite reading material.

Have guests sign their names on this creative artwork of stacked books.

Order an awesome wedding cake decorated with excerpts from your favorite literary piece.

You can opt for a standout cake like this 5-tier cake shaped and designed to look like a stack of books.

Decorate cupcakes with the perfect topping - miniature books inscribed with the titles of your favorites.

Distribute cones with paper confetti which guests can shower you with as you walk down the aisle after the ceremony or during your arrival at the wedding reception.

Give away pre-loved books as wedding favors.

Ask guests to scribble their messages on cards filed on a card catalog.

Have your picture taken with book as props.

Lots of Love,
Susan

Photo Credits: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21

4th of July Wedding Inspiration

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 05 Jul 2015 14:13:00 +0000

Happy 4th of July to everyone! History tells us that this day is the day that the United States gained its independence from the British Empire. But these days, we look forward to this day not only for its historical significance but for the chance to spend time with family to celebrate the occasion. With everyone looking forward to spending time at home with family and friends, it is the perfect time to amp up the celebration by planning a 4th of July wedding!

Here are awesome wedding elements that will fit right into the occasion:

The red, white and blue invitation will give away the July 4th wedding date.

Add a wow factor to your wedding ensemble by wearing this cool stars and stripes sandals under your pristine white wedding dress.

The groom looking dapper in navy blue suit with red bow tie.

Bouquet of reds for the bride and white ones peppered with blue accents for the bridesmaids

Eclectic bouquet of red, white and blue paper flowers

Bridesmaids in striking blue dresses.

The cute ring bearer in suspenders and striped bow tie

Spruce up the ring pillow with ribbon accents in red and blue

A red, white and blue ribbon waist band adds to the festive spirit of a 4th of July wedding.

Say your vows under a simple wedding arch decorated with red, white and blue paper lanterns

Easy to assemble aisle treatment of red, white and blue flower petals.

Color coordinated table setting.

Candles and wine bottle decor add an interesting touch to floral centerpieces

Festive red, black and white backdrop

Dress up chairs with red, white and blue ribbons

Simple DIY candle decor. Mason jars filled with rice granules in vibrant red, white and blue

An eclectic table centerpiece of flowers in varying heights.

Scrumptious berry desserts

Snow cones - fun stuff for the kids and kids at heart.

Lollipop bouquet centerpiece that will certainly get everyone's attention.

Fancy red, white and blue mocktail - cranberry juice, blue gatorade and soda.

Unity sand ceremony

Awesome wedding cake

Thirst quenching wedding favors.

The best part of ending a 4th of July wedding is watching the skies light up with fireworks.

Lots of Love,

Susan

Photo Credits: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26