Main DVC Feed

Ryan and Scott's Wedding in Rancho Palos Verdes, California 36

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 04:50:17 GMT

Ryan and Scott's Wedding in Rancho Palos Verdes, California 36

Here's how to best prepare for your wedding in light of this new wave.

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 04:41:45 GMT

Here's how to best prepare for your wedding in light of this new wave.

Manny and Michelle's Wedding in Kansas City, Missouri 60

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 04:34:18 GMT

Manny and Michelle's Wedding in Kansas City, Missouri 60

Stephanie and Victor's Wedding in Bealeton, Virginia 42

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 04:15:44 GMT

Stephanie and Victor's Wedding in Bealeton, Virginia 42

Pooja and Prateek's Wedding in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico 64

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 04:10:24 GMT

Pooja and Prateek's Wedding in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico 64

Brett and Jewelia's Wedding in Danville, Kentucky 36

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 03:39:13 GMT

Brett and Jewelia's Wedding in Danville, Kentucky 36

Matt and Randi's Wedding in Milwaukee, Wisconsin 11

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 03:23:34 GMT

Matt and Randi's Wedding in Milwaukee, Wisconsin 11

Andrew and Miriah's Wedding in Clarkston, Michigan 3

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 03:16:34 GMT

Andrew and Miriah's Wedding in Clarkston, Michigan 3

Stephanie and Victor's Wedding in Bealeton, Virginia 39

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 02:47:19 GMT

Stephanie and Victor's Wedding in Bealeton, Virginia 39

Lavender mini spring wedding guest dress

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 02:03:54 GMT

Lavender mini spring wedding guest dress

Formal pink floral maxi spring wedding guest dress

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 01:47:39 GMT

Formal pink floral maxi spring wedding guest dress

Jerry and Ana's Wedding in San Juan, Puerto Rico 53

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 01:28:25 GMT

Jerry and Ana's Wedding in San Juan, Puerto Rico 53

Brett and Jewelia's Wedding in Danville, Kentucky 5

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 01:15:24 GMT

Brett and Jewelia's Wedding in Danville, Kentucky 5

Meagan and Greg's Wedding in Richmond, Virginia 12

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 00:39:17 GMT

Meagan and Greg's Wedding in Richmond, Virginia 12

Subtle bell-sleeve spring wedding guest dress

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 00:15:10 GMT

Subtle bell-sleeve spring wedding guest dress

Andrew and Miriah's Wedding in Clarkston, Michigan 15

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 21:42:32 GMT

Andrew and Miriah's Wedding in Clarkston, Michigan 15

Whether you're looking for inspiration or just want to keep up with the latest styles, these are the top wedding stationery trends of 2022.

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 04:57:14 GMT

Whether you're looking for inspiration or just want to keep up with the latest styles, these are the top wedding stationery trends of 2022.

Sage green slip spring wedding guest dress

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 04:45:20 GMT

Sage green slip spring wedding guest dress

Andrew and Brandi's Wedding in Weiser, Idaho 30

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 04:35:24 GMT

Andrew and Brandi's Wedding in Weiser, Idaho 30

Manny and Michelle's Wedding in Kansas City, Missouri 11

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 04:27:01 GMT

Manny and Michelle's Wedding in Kansas City, Missouri 11

Jerry and Ana's Wedding in San Juan, Puerto Rico 24

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 03:56:59 GMT

Jerry and Ana's Wedding in San Juan, Puerto Rico 24

Blue paisley maxi spring wedding guest dress

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 03:39:56 GMT

Blue paisley maxi spring wedding guest dress

Stephanie and Victor's Wedding in Bealeton, Virginia 10

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 03:23:17 GMT

Stephanie and Victor's Wedding in Bealeton, Virginia 10

rose gold jumpsuit

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 03:01:06 GMT

rose gold jumpsuit

3D floral appliqué mini spring wedding guest dress

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 02:41:30 GMT

3D floral appliqué mini spring wedding guest dress

Check out our Downtown Vegas Chapel photo gallery!

Aimee Stephens — Fri, 21 Jul 2017 00:45:10 GMT

We’re super excited to launch our online wedding gallery. Here you can check out our simple and modern Las Vegas wedding venue. The gallery starts with the exterior of Downtown Vegas Chapel. Super simple and you’ll recognize it’s just one block from the Marriage License Bureau.

Check out the Downtown Vegas Chapel Photo Gallery here.

Once inside, you can see photos from throughout the wedding chapel. Beginning with our lobby where we offer a variety of last-minute wedding needs from rings to tiaras and a sample of tux and gown (we partner with Downtown Tux & Gown just down the street!). From there, you can see our intimate bridal suite, the perfect spot for a portrait session before your ceremony. Our modern chapel seats 32 and is adorned with a red entryway for the wedding couple to make their grand entrance and a gorgeous floral wall where your ceremony will take place.

Once the wedding is over, have some fun with a posed photo session throughout the chapel grounds and even in our fun photo studio complete with a green screen!

After touring our Las Vegas wedding venue, check out some of our wedding photo galleries. There, you can see the everything from ceremony photos, which are taken in-the-moment and include everything from the grand entrance, to the ring exchange and first kiss. From there, our posed photos show you just how much fun and intimacy can be captured with our professional wedding photographers. It’s a great way to see what’s included in our wedding packages, as well as some of the amazing photos that can be taken.

We hope you love touring the space as much as we do and that we will see you soon. Cheers!

The post Check out our Downtown Vegas Chapel photo gallery! appeared first on Downtown Vegas Chapel.

Simple Weddings in Las Vegas

Aimee Stephens — Thu, 25 May 2017 20:15:18 GMT

One of the greatest things about Las Vegas is the simplicity of getting married here. For starters, it’s so easy to get your marriage license and from there the world of weddings is your oyster. At Downtown Vegas Chapel, we are all about creating a simple experience for you. Easy and affordable while also making sure you have the most special moments for your most special day. This beautiful couple recently married with us and we just love how they exemplify that. They are so cool and casual and so much in love. Thank you to Mr. and Mrs. R. for sharing your special day with us and embodying everything we’re all about!

Just married at Downtown Vegas Chapel rocking a simple yet totally coordinated wedding day look!

The post Simple Weddings in Las Vegas appeared first on Downtown Vegas Chapel.

How to Get Married in Las Vegas the Wedding Capital of the World

Wedding Team — Tue, 14 Mar 2017 20:35:31 GMT

Here is a great infographic we picked up from mlic.vegas that has some great resources on it pertaining to getting married in the wonderful LasVegas! After you pick up your marriage license walk on over to see us at Downtown Vegas Chapel. We can do the rest for you! Let us help you say I DO!

The post How to Get Married in Las Vegas the Wedding Capital of the World appeared first on Downtown Vegas Chapel.

10 Of The Best Places To Set Up Your Wedding Registry

Wedding Team — Tue, 14 Mar 2017 20:22:29 GMT

1. Amazon, for everything. Everything!

amazon.com

Why it’s great: With the world’s largest selection of products, you’ll (likely) find what you want for your registry. You can shop through specific designer boutiques like Jonathan Adler and MoMA Design Store. Prime members enjoy the usual free, two-day prime shipping and non-Prime members receive free shipping on $49+ registry orders on eligible items. Wedding guests can finance pricier items for up to 24 months through the Amazon Store Card and registrants have a 180-day window to return items.

How it works: Sign up online and add the products you want from Amazon. Then download the Amazon Assistant Google Chrome extension to add items from other websites to your registry.

Stuff we like: 13-inch Morning Star crepe maker ($59.99), 6-quart Instant Pot ($99), Cards Against Humanity ($25), Stanley 65-piece homeowner’s tool kit ($41.99), and Oahu double sleeping bag with two pillows ($49.99).

Completion discount: Within a month after your wedding date, you’ll receive a one-time registry completion discount. Prime members receive 20% off an order as large as $2,500 and non-prime members receive 10% off an order as large as $1,000. Get details here.

2. Wayfair, for cheaper dupes of basically any home-related thing ever.

wayfair.com

Why it’s great: If you find a home-related item on another site, (besides Amazon, TBH), you’ll likely find a dupe on Wayfair for cheaper. The on-trend items come in affordable prices that’ll make it easy for everyone to find something to buy on your registry. If you’re at a loss for what to add to your registry, use their curated collections as a starting point.

How it works: Sign up online, leave special notes for your guests, and make use of dedicated registry specialists.

Stuff we like: Le Souk Ceramique olive wood candy bowl 6-piece set ($95.99), Pyrex 4-piece prepware measuring cup set ($25.59), Old Dutch copper 6” berry colander ($18.56), Ninja express chop ($25.88), and Lodge 2-piece cast-iron combo set ($43.78).

Completion discount: Create your registry at least 30 days before your wedding date and have at least one item purchased by a guest to receive a registry fulfillment discount. The day after your wedding you’ll be eligible for a one-time 10% discount for an order as large as $20,000. Read more details here.

3. IKEA, for graduating to “grown-up” staples without selling your firstborn to afford such luxuries.

info.ikea-usa.com

Why it’s great: The staple apartment bookshelf retailer has lots of “grown-up” things worthy of your marital abode, too. Gift registry (for college, housewarmings, and baby showers, too) launched in February. The possibilities range from big stuff perf for cohabitation to the small stuff your broke-AF friends can afford. Guests can “chip in” with others for buying items more than $50, apply a purchase to a gift card instead of buying a physical item, and buy items in-store or online.

How it works: Download the IKEA Gift Registry app (on iOS or Android or text “Registry” to 62345 to receive link to download), sign up online, or visit a kiosk in store.

Stuff we like: Cabinet shoe organizer ($69.99), roasting pan ($8.99), knife block ($19.99), three-piece knife set ($39.99), and cable-management box ($9.99).

Giveaway: Create a registry by 5/31/17 for a chance to be one of three registrants to win a $1,000 gift card. Get more info here.

4. Bed Bath & Beyond, for the everywhere registry that your great-aunt who doesn’t like computers will willingly shop.

bedbathandbeyond.com

Why it’s great: The chain has basically everything for your #dreamhome registry. And because it’s a household name (har, har), your distant relative that refuses to enter credit card information online can shop your registry in store. It has lots of wedding registry resources too, like a registry checklist to inform just how many table settings you should ask for (12), free in-store Rock Your Registry events with experts to help you inform your additions, and a selection of invitations and wedding bands.

How it works: Sign up online or book an in-store appointment to get started.

Stuff we like: SodaStream starter kit ($99.99), Lenox French Perle groove mini everything bowls set of three ($9.99), Le Creuset signature Dutch oven ($129.99+), bamboo 21-piece insulated picnic basket ($39.99), and Shark cordless pet perfect II 18-volt handheld vacuum ($59.99).

5. Blueprint Registry, for registry inspiration by the room.

blueprintregistry.com

Why it’s great: This site boasts a low cash registry fee of 2.5% and lets you browse items by room (aka blueprint, get it?!). The service can import your existing registries, let you add a product from any store, convert any gift into cash, and create a honeymoon or cash fund. It also keeps tabs on your gift list so you can send thank you notes to all the right people.

How it works: Sign up online, consult with your personal registry concierge, and add items as you please.

Stuff we like: Quilted china storage cases ($62.95+ via Williams-Sonoma), Hoover carpet cleaner steam vac ($131.09 via Amazon), table in a bag ($49.99 via Amazon), Balinese tassel basket ($78+ via Anthropologie), and two-tone martini side table ($99.99 via West Elm).

Completion bonus: You’ll receive a completion discount of 10% off items in your registry after your wedding. Get the deets here.

6. Williams-Sonoma, for achieving the ultimate in #kitchengoals.

williams-sonoma.com

Why it’s great: The store you’ve been peeking into the windows of for years is kinda the ultimate in wedding registry. Rack up enough qualifying gifts and you’ll receive some tantalizing bonus gifts, you can book free in-store private appointments with registry specialists, and visit a store to learn how to use your new gifts if you can’t figure out that expensive coffee machine.

How it works: Sign up online or download the app (iOS) and add products to your registry.

Stuff we like: Stainless-steel pastry blender ($10.95), red wine glasses set of 4 ($24), 10-piece glass mixing-bowl set ($39.95), Nordic Wave heritage bundt pan ($36), and Vitamix Pro 750 heritage blender in copper ($599.95).

Completion bonus: After your wedding you’ll receive 10% off of all your purchases for six months. (Most registry completion bonuses are one-time only.)

Monthly sweepstakes: Create a registry and you’ll be automatically entered for a monthly sweepstakes with a chance to win up to $1,000 of items on your registry. Read the details here.

7. Zola, for free shipping on stuff from all your go-to retailers.

zola.com

Why it’s great: This new-blood registry service lets you pick and choose from 450+ registry-fave brands like OXO, Waterford, All-Clad, and Kate Spade New York. Shipping is ~free~ on all orders, you can set up cash funds for honeymoons and other stuff, and you’ll receive bonus gifts when wedding guests purchase certain items from your registry.

How it works: Sign up online or download the app (iOS). The app allows you to scan a barcode IRL to add it to your registry, play the Tinder-like Blender to swipe right on desirable wedding gifts, and receive push alerts when someone purchases one of your gifts.

Stuff we like: OXO 8-piece snap glass storage set ($29.99), Waterford champagne flute set of 2 ($70), Kate Spade New York two of a kind “mine” and “yours” wine glass set ($49.99), Coyuchi Mediterranean 6-piece Turkish organic towel set ($147.99), and Sonos PLAY:1 wireless speaker ($199).

Completion bonus: BuzzFeed readers receive $50 to use on Zola.com when you set up your registry and receive $500 in gifts. Read the deets here.

8. The Knot, for linking your (free) wedding website and registry in a snap.

theknot.com

Why it’s great: The name you probably recognize from wedding websites makes it easy to link your registry to said wedding website. It also includes a comprehensive registry guide full of gift suggestions, general wedding etiquette, and other useful stuff you’re embarrassed to ask out loud.

How it works: Sign up online using the same email address you’ve used for store registries, (like Sur la Table, West Elm, Target, etc.), and The Knot will link them to your wedding website within 24 hours.

Stuff we like: Personalized grand initial slate coasters set of four ($39.99 via Bed, Bath & Beyond), Corningware 11-piece French white serveware set ($59.99 via Kohl’s), YETI tundra 65 cooler ($400 via REI), Nespresso VertuoLine coffee & espresso maker ($129.35 via Wayfair), and Kate Aspen airplane bottle opener ($2.79via Macy’s).

9. Macy’s, for putting your store card and reward points to good use.

social.macys.com

Why it’s great: If you have a Macy’s card, you can enroll in Registry Star Rewards, which earns you 10% rewards on every eligible purchase and 5% on every eligible gift you receive. It then adds up to a gift card you can use post-wedding.

How it works: Sign up online or access your in-store registry online.

Stuff we like: Black & Decker double-flip Belgian waffle maker ($79.99), Presto jumbo cool-touch griddle ($39.99), Samsonite spin tech carry-on hardside suitcase ($260+), Nutribullet pro ($149.99), and Martha Stewart Collection figural egg turner ($18.99).

Sweepstakes: Create a registry and enter by 3/31/2017 for a chance to win a $10,000 Macy’s gift card with myStylist. Get more info here.

10. Domino’s, because pizza is a gift from the gods to folks who don’t feel like cooking.

dominosweddingregistry.com

Why it’s great: Ain’t no shame in this pizza-loving game. The retailer launched a registry website in February with the aim of giving newlyweds a piece of the romantic pie. Yes, it’s a marketing stunt. But, it’s so crazy it works.

How it works: Sign up online and add package “meals” to your registry. Or, caring loved ones can gift the couple e-cards good for one of the packages.

Stuff we like: Bust out the Fine China ($25), Thank You Card-a-Thon ($30), An Excuse Not to Cook ($20), Low-Key Date Night ($30), and Married But Chill ($15).

Source: Buzzfeed.com

The post 10 Of The Best Places To Set Up Your Wedding Registry appeared first on Downtown Vegas Chapel.

Popular Wedding Colors: 10 Pretty Palettes

Wedding Team — Sun, 12 Mar 2017 01:40:03 GMT

Looking for the most popular wedding color palettes? Here we have 5 of the most popular wedding hues, each done with 2 different accent colors. You’d be surprised how much a secondary color can change the look of a scheme!

Aqua & Coral

As you can tell from this cheery wedding program above, aqua and coral is one of the brightest and happiest color palettes you can find. It’s particularly fetching for beach weddings, with lush floral arrangements in sherbet brights.

Aqua & Neutrals

Vintage wedding? Aqua pairs really well with shades of ivory and touches of burlap. Below, this aqua wedding cake is dressed up with white buttons and a wooden topper.

Pink & Gold

This year’s sleeper hit of color palettes, pink and gold adds instant modern sophistication to your event. Pale pink makes it look a little more traditional, hot pink a little more bold. Use varying shades of pink in your florals, and gold in other accents like chargers, runners, and candles.

Pink & Navy

There is no wedding color palette more preppy than pink and navy. It’s refined, but still has just a tad of whimsy. Because it is fairly traditional in men’s fashion, your fella will have no problem finding a navy and pink tie. Lighter pinks will give this palette a slightly less preppy appeal, but still look very East Coast sophisticate.

Yellow & White

Even when paired with white, a bright yellow color scheme packs a big punch. This statement pairing can be made modern with lots of white infused with impactful color moments, or muted and simple with paler, buttery shades.

Yellow & Gray

One of the most popular wedding color combos, yellow and gray can work for just about any style event. From vintage to modern, it can be just lovely. And there are so many options for different shades. For bright yellow stick with crisp, standard grays. But with lighter, buttery shades try out grays with just a tad of lavender in them.

Orange & Cobalt

This could just as easily be orange and navy (another popular option), but cobalt pops so much more beautifully against different shades of orange. On this cake (below), you can see how great these colors play off of each other. Very friendly for traditional weddings, and cobalt will look flattering on all of your friends.

Orange & White

Just like with yellow, this citrus shade pairs amazingly with a cool white. Best for summer weddings, this palette is perfect for couples that want to stretch their palette into every detail of their wedding–including the dessert table. For a brighter effect, have orange be the star. If you want to play things a little more subtle, consider using orange only for pops against an otherwise completely white landscape.

Purple & Black

The moodiest of all the palettes you’ll see here, purple and black is ideal for the couple who want a darker, more “evening” effect for their event. Traditional patterns like damask are easily found in this scheme. By the way, if you are holding a Halloween wedding, this is a chic alternative to orange and black.

Purple & Lilac

Not every color works well with this type of monochromatic palette, but purple definitely does. Choose a deep shade of purple and then use lilac (or lavender if you prefer a blue tone) as an accent. Because of the wide variety of purple flowers available, arranging lush, monochromatic centerpieces will be a breeze for your florist.

Source: mywedding.com

The post Popular Wedding Colors: 10 Pretty Palettes appeared first on Downtown Vegas Chapel.

14 Wedding Trends to Avoid in 2017: Flower Crowns, Food Trucks, and More

Wedding Team — Sat, 04 Mar 2017 02:38:58 GMT

The aesthetic of your wedding should feel unique, specific to you, and worthy of your special day. But the look of your event should also stand the test of time. However, for many, things often get a little bit muddled. Pinterest boards are made, and trends are quickly copied. So to help you avoid such a blunder, we reached out to seven top wedding planners to hear which trends they believe would be a mistake to incorporate in 2017. The result? A lively mix of opinions as to what has been overused, will soon look dated, and personal dislikes. So brides-to-be, beware.

“Naming your drinks. Please, no one serve another ‘Dantini’ or a ‘Jennyrita.’ Do serve delicious, artisanal, fresh drinks that are seasonal and inspired, but please stop the witty banter via bar menus, I ‘thankyoutini’ in advance.

“Another big one for me is family-style dinners. I love family-style, and I might get a lot of slack for this, but I think it’s time to bring some plated elegance back. There, I said it. Sometimes great chefs can really do more with a plated dinner, and I don’t always feel like working for my dinner, passing all the platters around, et cetera, Instead, offer a choice of entrées, not on the menu, but rather that night, when your guests are seated.”
—Yifat Oren, Los Angeles and New York City–based event producer yifatoren.com

“Rustic and boho-theme weddings. Rustic has become an almost taboo word. Moving forward, we want to see people moving more toward a mountain-elegant vibe, in which the design elements will remain timeless. Rustic elements like burlap-tied napkins or cocktail tables, wood slices, and twine-tied favors are often not representative of a client, and are merely seen as kitschy. Likewise, teepees, dream catchers, feathers, and arrows are lovely, but we’re really ready to see these elements go away unless they are truly representative of who the client is as a person.”
—Virginia Edelson, founder of Bluebird Productionsbluebirdproductions.com

“There are four major trends I don’t want to see in 2017. The first is garlands that run down the length of dining tables. You’ll notice that photos of this generally capture the garland as it falls down the end of the table. That’s because it’s actually the only position that the garland looks good in; it looks really sloppy and is an idea that is better in theory than reality.

“Second, the clown car of bridal parties. I know everyone has a million ‘best friends,’ but they don’t all need to be in your wedding. Third, giant bridal bouquets—the bride should always look like she is carrying the bouquet, not vice versa. And finally, the archaic tradition of the bride’s family footing the whole bill for the wedding. The idea goes back to the time when dowries were all that women brought to the table. In this day and age where a wedding can be two men, two women, and everything in between, this idea no longer even makes sense. Go Dutch or go home!”
—David Stark, wedding and event planner davidstarkdesign.com

“The all-white wedding has reigned supreme for a few years now. I’ll admit, the look is classic and beautiful, but in 2017, I’d love to see couples add a signature color to liven things up. And when it comes to food, I’ve had enough of the long, multicourse formal meals with the usual fare. Guests love having familiar, filling foods—to fuel them for all that mingling, drinking, and dancing they’ll be doing! A spin on mac and cheese, fried chicken, and a delicious hearty salad with fruits, nuts, and cheese are all fun options guests will actually enjoy.

“Lastly, Converse sneakers and cowboy boots paired with formal tuxedos and gorgeous wedding dresses have seen their day. I know it’s charming! But there are so many other unique ways to show your personality and surprise guests with an unexpected twist.”
—Mindy Weiss, celebrity wedding planner mindyweiss.com

“The worst mistake we see is when people embrace a trend when it doesn’t even make sense in the space. People do this a lot with color palettes. While neutrals look great in certain settings, they can be completely washed out in others. Similarly, a farm table can look great at outdoor weddings in California, but renting one for a modern or industrial space is just weird. The lesson? You should decorate your event the same way you’d decorate a home. And you wouldn’t put sequin linens on your dining room table if you lived in a craftsman cottage.

“The other big one is flower crowns. They were adorable while they lasted when they appeared in the right setting, but after five years, I’m afraid it is definitely time to move on. People should be really careful with fashion trends.”
—Alison Laesser-Keck and Bryan Keck, founders of VLD Events vldevents.com

“Pinterest can be an excellent tool for brides-to-be to find inspiration and get their visions in motion, but the home page–of–Pinterest wedding look is well overdone. I’m talking about chalkboard signs, bohemian naked cakes, and geode everything. We thought that boho chic was on its way out last year, but somehow it stuck around for 2016. Let’s hope 2017 can finally ditch the trend.”
—Colin Cowie, wedding and event planner colincowie.com

“Food trucks. They’re not over yet, but they’ve got about 15 minutes left.”
—Bronson van Wyck, wedding and event planner vanwyck.net

Source: Vogue.com

The post 14 Wedding Trends to Avoid in 2017: Flower Crowns, Food Trucks, and More appeared first on Downtown Vegas Chapel.

Real Wedding Vows That Will Make You Laugh and Cry

Wedding Team — Sat, 18 Feb 2017 16:10:25 GMT

I’ll never forget writing my wedding vows, aka the moment when I realized I had no idea how to write wedding vows in the first place. It was two days before our wedding and I had just gotten into a huge fight with my mom over something stupid like earrings that wasn’t really about earrings at all. (Weddings, man, they make you do crazy things.) I was exhausted, emotionally wrecked, and in no place to spend my time writing wedding vows. But, since I had procrastinated on the task, there I sat, at two in the morning, holed up in my little brother’s bedroom, crying into football-printed sheets and racking my brain for inspiration, while one of my bridesmaids slept in the bed across the room.

In my heightened emotional state, what flowed from my fingers onto my computer screen ended up being near perfect. Those marriage vows brought down the house and made more than a few grown men cry. I remember being more proud of that than any other part of the wedding. Forget the good food, the venue, the dress. If we’d made people understand why they were there in the first place, then I felt like we did our job well.

If I pulled together a holistic sum of all of the weddings I’ve ever attended, I would say unequivocally that the wedding vows are what set the stage for the whole damn thing. And that’s not to say that they even have to be hand-written marriage vows, you just have to mean them.

Want to know what makes a wedding go from good to the best party I ever went to? It’s when I leave an emotionally charged ceremony abuzz with love and commitment. Because at that point, all I want to do is celebrate how awesome and in love you are. Possibly with tequila. Definitely with cake.

So today we’ve rounded up some of our favorites from the last open wedding vows thread. Here’s to hoping they inspire you to create meaningful marriage vows for yourselves, and not at 2AM.

SECULAR WEDDING VOWS & MARRIAGE VOWS

I TAKE YOU AS YOU ARE, loving who you are now and who you are yet to become. I promise to listen to you and learn from you, to support you and accept your support. I will celebrate your triumphs and mourn your losses as though they were my own. I will love you and have faith in your love for me, through all our years and all that life may bring us.

I LOVE YOU UNCONDITIONALLY AND WITHOUT HESITATION. I vow to love you, encourage you, trust you, and respect you. As a family, we will create a home filled with learning, laughter, and compassion. I promise to work with you to foster and cherish a relationship of equality knowing that together we will build a life far better than either of us could imagine alone. Today, I choose you to be my husband/wife. I accept you as you are, and I offer myself in return. I will care for you, stand beside you, and share with you all of life’s adversities and all of its joys from this day forward, and all the days of my life.

TODAY, I PROMISE YOU THIS: I will laugh with you in times of joy, and comfort you in times of sorrow. I will share in your dreams and support you as you strive to achieve your goals. I will listen to you with compassion and understanding, and speak to you with encouragement. Together, let us build a home filled with learning, laughter and light, shared freely with all who may live there. Let us be partners, friends and lovers, today and all of the days that follow.

ALEX, YOU ARE MY BEST FRIEND. I promise to laugh with you, cry with you, and grow with you. I will love you when we are together and when we are apart. I promise to support your dreams and to respect our differences, and to love you and be by your side through all the days and nights of our lives.

DO YOU, SAM PROMISE TO BE A LOVING FRIEND AND PARTNER IN MARRIAGE, to talk and to listen, to trust and appreciate, to respect and cherish Alex’s uniqueness? Do you promise to support, comfort, and strengthen him/her through life’s joys and sorrows? Do you promise to share hopes and dreams as you build your lives together, and to grow with Alex in mind? Will you strive to build a home that is compassionate to all, full of respect and honor, filled with peace, happiness, and love? Do you promise to always be open and honest with Alex, and cherish him/her for as long as you both shall live?

I, ALEX TAKE YOU, SAM TO BE MY HUSBAND/WIFE. I promise to always be your biggest fan and your partner in crime. I promise to create and support a family with you, in a household filled with laughter, patience, understanding, and love. I vow not just to grow old together, but to grow together. I will love you faithfully through the difficult and the easy. What may come, I will always be there, each one believing that love never dies. As I have given you my hand to hold, so I give you my life to keep.

I, SAM, TAKE YOU ALEX TO BE THE WIFE/HUSBAND OF MY DAYS, the companion of my house, the friend of my life. We shall bear together whatever trouble and sorrow life may lay upon us, and we shall share together whatever good and joyful things life may bring us. With these words, and all the words of my heart, I marry you and bind my life to yours.

I, ALEX, CHOOSE YOU SAM TO BE NO OTHER THAN YOURSELF. Loving what I know of you, trusting what things I will discover. I will respect you as a person, a partner, and an equal. There is little to say that you haven’t already heard, and little to give that is not already freely given. Before you asked me, I was yours and I am devoted to you in every way. I marry you with no hesitation or doubt, and my commitment to you is absolute. Do you take me to be your lawfully wedded husband/wife?

I CHOOSE YOU. TO STAND BY YOUR SIDE AND SLEEP IN YOUR ARMS. To be joy to your heart and food for your soul. To learn with you and grow with you, even as time and life change us both. I promise to laugh with you in good times and struggle alongside you in bad times. I promise to respect you and cherish you as an individual, a partner, and an equal, knowing that we do not complete, but complement each other. May we have many adventures and grow old together.

TODAY, SURROUNDED BY PEOPLE WHO LOVE US, I CHOOSE YOU ALEX TO BE MY PARTNER. I am proud to be your wife/husband and to join my life with yours. I vow to support you, push you, inspire you, and above all love you, for better or worse, in sickness and health, for richer or poorer, as long as we both shall live.

I TAKE YOU TO BE MY SPOUSE. I promise to choose you every day, to love you in word and deed, to do the hard work of making now into always. To laugh with you, cry with you, grow with you, and create with you. To honor the divinity in you, of you, and around you. To be your kin and your partner in all of life’s adventures. Loving what I know of you and trusting what I don’t yet know, I give you my hand. I give you my love. I give you myself. Will you give me yourself? Will you come travel with me?

I, ALEX, DO PLEDGE YOU, SAM, MY LOVE, for as long as I live. What I possess in this world, I give to you. I will keep you and hold you, comfort and tend you, protect you and shelter you, for all the days of my life.

RELIGIOUS WEDDING VOWS & TRADITIONAL WEDDING VOWS

I, SAM, TAKE YOU, ALEX, to be my wife, and I promise before God and these witnesses, to be your loving and faithful wife/husband. I will be by your side to share with you your happiness and success, and to comfort you in times of sorrow and disappointment. As your companion, I will seek to be open and honest with you, to forgive you as Christ has forgiven me, and to always remind you of the Lord’s plans and promises. Forever I devote my love and my life to you from this day forward.

BY THIS RING YOU ARE SANCTIFIED TO ME AS MY WIFE in accordance with the traditions of Moses and Israel. Wear me as a seal upon your heart, as a seal upon your arm, for love is infinitely strong. Many waters cannot quench love, no flood can sweep it away, I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine. (Jewish)

I TAKE YOU FOR THE LOVE YOU HOLD IN YOUR HEART, and vow to spend my life cultivating my love and care for you, for our family, and for all living things. Our relationship is my most important consideration; it gives me strength, and I vow to put every effort into strengthening it in turn through honesty, faithfulness, and patience. For all the days that we live with one another, I promise to spend each day working to become a more true version of myself, and I will do my upmost to help you do the same. In this effort, I take the Threefold Refuge vows, the Three Boundless precepts, the Ten Grave Precepts, as well as your wisdom and your council as my guides. (Buddhist)

IN THE PRESENCE OF GOD, AND THESE OUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS, I take thee to be my beloved, promising with divine assistance to be unto thee a loving and faithful spouse so long as we both shall live.

Source: apracticalwedding.com

The post Real Wedding Vows That Will Make You Laugh and Cry appeared first on Downtown Vegas Chapel.

7 Things the Mother of the Bride of Groom Shouldn’t be Doing

Wedding Team — Fri, 17 Feb 2017 23:51:32 GMT

Even though it’s all out of the goodness of their hearts, the mother of the brideand the mother of the groom can get a little too involved with the wedding. Here are a few things that they definitely shouldn’t be doing – where you know they’ve crossed a line…

Intrude

Obviously, with their child getting married, both sets of mothers are bound to get excited. Your diaries will be filling up with lunch dates with you and your mother, or you and your groom’s mum where every single thing you could possibly talk about when it comes to weddings, will be mentioned.

At Wedding Ideas, we love to see brides accepting help from others so they get a bit of stress relief, but don’t let that mean that no part or no detail of your wedding is planned by you. It’s not uncommon to see that motherly tendency of ‘taking over’ – whether subtle or slightly more aggressive – so be warned. If you want something done in that way, don’t let your mother’s words sway you. Your day, your way – and that’s that.

Overload

As we said, by no means refuse ALL the help the offer, because at the end of the day, it’s saving you a job and it’s saving you time. But when delegating wedding duties around your friends and family members, make sure that both you and the recipient are realistic in the amount they are taking on.

No matter how eager and keen your mother-in-law may sound about taking on 12/20 jobs you’ve got on that to-do list, remember that she still is human, and her eager excitement for the wedding plans may wear out before she’s even finished her second task of writing out all the place cards. At that point, you won’t even DARE to mention the handmade favours she agreed to do…

Disapprove

It’s a common stereotype of mother-in-laws – both of the bride and the groom – that they can be quite… disapproving… of everything. Of course, we don’t believe in that stereotype, but there might be times where you can understand where that common image of mother-in-laws have come from.

Taking her along to your wedding dress fitting can quickly turn from a lovely and thoughtful idea, to maybe changing the aim of the shopping trip to buying an axe, and a shovel. And her constant comments about your hubby-to-be not making enough effort? Just no. If this is happening to you, calmly let her know what she is saying is upsetting you, and most importantly, don’t let it affect you!

Wear white

Oh come on! This is number one of the wedding rule book, isn’t it? If wedding guests aren’t allowed to wear white, neither should your mum. This is the point when the question will be raised, by you, by your groom, and by everyone else: “Is she pretending it’s her wedding?”.

We’re almost sure your mum would think this one through, but do ask her what she’s wearing before the wedding day actually comes, just in case… We’ve got loads of tips on mother of the bride style and fashion right here.

Match with the bridesmaids

On a similar note, unless you’ve actually specified for her to do so, if your mum or mum-in-law is deliberately matching her outfits to your bridesmaids – essentially, assigning herself as an extra bridesmaids, – that’s another line crossed!

If she wants to make some kind of link to the bridal party, suggest the idea of a corsage in the same colour as the bridesmaid dresses. It would be a really nice touch for the photographs, and make your mum a little bit happier. But remember, make sure that both sets of mothers go with this idea so that one isn’t left out.

Be late

From offering bride-ly advice and knowing exactly how to calm you down, to readjusting that strand of hair that’s a little out of place after you’ve finished getting ready, your mum should be there for you on your wedding morning! She shouldn’t show up late and think you won’t notice.

That goes for the rest of the wedding planning process, too – all the arranged appointments, lunch-time meet ups to talk about table plans, and so on. You should never underestimate the usefulness of a mum around your wedding time, and neither should she!

Steal the show

Wearing white on the day is one thing, but taking complete control of everything that’s going on, pointing out every little detail she helped with, and not letting the bride or groom get a word on their wedding day is on another level! Either the excitement of the wedding has got a little too much for her or her glass is getting topped up a little too often, either way, there comes a point when it’s acceptable to just say ‘STOP’. I mean, she didn’t even help with that bunting!

To be honest, we’re sure that you won’t have to deal with any of these extremes, but you might witness a few hints of this kind of ‘Mumzilla’ mode. Just always be careful how you approach it and what you say. Want more advice on that? Check out 6 things to never say to the mother of the bride or groom!

Source: Weddingideasmag.com

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What’s Happening To The Traditional White Wedding?

Wedding Team — Fri, 17 Feb 2017 23:43:05 GMT

It looks like modern bride and grooms are tearing up the wedding etiquette book!

The traditional British wedding is on the verge of extinction as brides and grooms opt instead for ultra-modern refinements to their big day in 2015, new national research has revealed.

The modern innovations start from the initial wedding invitation, as 22% are now issued via Facebook or other social network rather than the traditional card, sent through the post.

What’s more, one in every 20 wedding invites is dispatched by email, with a further 12% being sent by textmessage, according to the study by leading hotel bookers LateRooms.com.

The venue

Indeed, of the polled 2,000 couples – who were either recently married or hoping to get married in the near future – 38.5% admit they held or are due to hold their entire wedding day in a hotel instead of choosing a church service and a reception at a different venue.

Less than three in 10 weddings (28%) are now conducted by a priest or a vicar. The overwhelming choice of minister for the modern wedding is an appointed civic official from the register office (48%) though many couples are now officially married by a friend (one in 20), while one in 10 wedding ceremonies are conducted by a ship’s captain.

The dress

Once a mainstay of tradition, the white wedding dress is also being eschewed, with just a third of brides now getting married in one. Almost as many (28%), now walk up the aisle in a coloured dress.

The food

Even the traditional roast dinner has been usurped in favour of more modern culinary delights when the wedding breakfast is served.

More than one in five weddings has an Italian-themed dish at the centre of its wedding breakfast, according to the research. And almost one in four couples (24.4%) chooses curry for their wedding breakfast.

Furthermore, 10% of those tying the knot choose fish and chips or their favourite take-out as the main meal on their big day.

Just 18% of couples opt for a traditional fruit wedding cake with 21.6% choosing a chocolate cake for their reception and a further 26% opting for a sponge cake. One in 20 couples now even choose an alternative of a cupcake tower!

Maybe we will see an uptick in the Downtown Las Vegas Wedding!

Source: weddingideasmag.com

The post What’s Happening To The Traditional White Wedding? appeared first on Downtown Vegas Chapel.

How to Pull Off a Seasonal Wedding Without Overdoing It

Wedding Team — Fri, 17 Feb 2017 03:05:32 GMT

Whether you handpicked your wedding date or went with whatever was available at your venue of choice, the time of year you host your nuptials can play a role in some key decisions. But the month you get married shouldn’t fully dictate the look and feel of your big day. We asked some pros for their advice on how to keep your wedding seasonal without going overboard.

Don’t Over Do It

The trick is to use seasonal décor sparingly, says Audrey Isaac of 100 Candles. “The goal should be to give a nod to the season without it completely overshadowing your theme,” she adds. So you can skip the decorated fir trees and wreaths around the holidays. Simply pair lanterns and LED lights with a few pinecones and touches of evergreen. And get creative with glass vessels. You can fill them with seasonal fruits like cranberries floating in water.

Think Beyond the Obvious

For September through November, resist the urge to scatter leaves, pumpkins and scarecrows everywhere. “You will quickly go from ‘fall’ to ‘craft fair,'” says Kim Sayatovic of Belladeux Events. If you’re getting married in the spring some simple, fresh flowers is enough to give a seasonal feel. And in the summer, cool colors and sheer fabrics can make you feel like you’re in the French Rivera, Sayatovic says. The same goes for weddings around other holidays, like Valentine’s Day. Bag the hearts and go old-school romance instead. Use famous love quotes for table assignments or as handheld banners at your photo station, says Paula Ramirez of the Historic Mankin Mansion.

Go Subtle on Color

As far as color, instead of literally decking the halls in red and green at Christmastime, Isaac says to opt for rich metallic tones such as gold and copper. Avoiding the highly obvious choices will help you steer clear of making your wedding look more like Santa’s workshop. Similarly, autumn weddings can rely on some gorgeous colors like reds, oranges and yellows, but hold back from using them too generously.

Pick Just One Element to Highlight

Visual subtlety is definitely the way to go, according to Jamie Chang of Passport to Joy, who says picking just one element — for example, the color orange or twinkling lights — for incorporating the season without overdoing it. That said, she recommends thinking of the experience itself in addition to the aesthetics. “Focus on the bringing in the mood of the season and the feeling. That could be in the food or the drinks or the program or the favor or how guests are greeted.” A cozy and warm squash soup for fall or a fun wine slushie drink for summer are always a hit with guests. A dessert table packed with traditional holiday treats made by relatives is also a great idea, adds Amy Kolodziej of Sunshower Photography. You can also allude to the season through wedding favors to enjoy at the party or take home. Chang suggests small potted flowers or seeds for spring or greeting guests with something that will make them more comfortable, like hand warmers in winter.

Keep Personal Style At the Forefront

Just remember, don’t get carried away. Your best bet is choosing delicate seasonal undertones while using your own personal style to solidify the aesthetics, Ramirez says. So try not to obsess over every single detail being “on season.” Being selective about where you choose to highlight fall, winter, spring or summer touches will give it a more natural effect and reduce overall stress. “Don’t let it be the focus or take away from what is special about the day — the ceremony and being with the people that are close to you to celebrate,” says Emily Sullivan of Get Polished Events.

Hers a Few extra ideas also from Twitter:

Ideal colours for Spring! Have a browse through our 'Spring wedding' Pinterest board for colour scheme ideas and seasonal table decoration https://t.co/GY26zg9aTE

— Fross Weddings (@Fross_Weddings) February 15, 2017

The Best Winter Wedding Flowers for Your Seasonal Wedding https://t.co/Sp7uBaVTJL #weddingideas

— Gabor P. (@intimfotozas) January 18, 2017

Source: Brides.com

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