Simply Elegant Consulting - Wedding Blog

Working that Guest List

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 00:19:00 +0000

One on the first obstacles in planning your wedding is deciding on whom to invite. The guest list is a key component because it affects your budget. Depending on where you live, you could spend $30 to $600 per person. The number of guests you invite affects not just the cost for food and beverages, but also the costs of invitations, programs, place cards, menus and favors. Do you envision your day with hundreds of people or is it an intimate affair? Remember, a wedding with a small guest list does not mean that it can’t be an extravagant affair.

How to determine your guest list?

It is imperative to have the people who are most important to you and your groom at your wedding. To help create your list, there should be four groups: the Bride’s list, the Groom’s list, the Bride’s parent’s list and the Groom’s parent’s list. Now each group should have two sets of lists. The first list being “List A” The individuals on this list should include of course, the Bride and Groom, Parents, Grandparents, the Bridal Party, Aunts and Uncles, first cousins, close friends of both sets of parents, these are the people you must/should invite. The second list is “List B”, consists of Great Aunts and Uncles, remaining cousins, close friends, friends for high school and college, and possible co-workers, these are the people you would like to invite.

Eliminate any duplicates and keep List B handy.

Some things to consider when creating your list or on deciding you should go on which list and ways to cut down on the total number of guests:

Would you spend normally offer to spend $50 or more on that individual for dinner?

Use the one year rule for friends: If you haven't had a meaningful conversation with this person within the last year, don't invite him or her.

Keep the list limited to personal friends. Do you hang out with co-workers away from the office? If not, don't invite them.

Exclude children if possible (except for the children in the bridal party).

You do not have to allow guests to bring a guest unless they are married or in a serious relationship.

Avoid the "If I invite this cousin, I must invite all cousins" trap.

You are not obligated to invite someone to your wedding because you were invited to theirs.

Once you have determined your guidelines for who will be invited, the rest will be easy. Remember to keep track of your guest lists and response by using Excel or one of the many free Guest Lists Trackers available online.

When you receive a decline from List A and it’s at least four weeks out from the big day, it’s okay to send an invite to someone from List B. Always be mindful to the agreed upon number of guests and your “Reply by” deadline.

5 Steps to a Flawless Face

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:12:00 +0000

Want a flawless face on your wedding day? Then don’t wait until a week before your wedding to start taking care of your skin. Your skin didn’t get there in a week so you’re probably not going to be able to change it in that amount of time either. To have beautiful skin on your wedding day, all you need to do is follow these five simple and easy steps.

1. Take care of yourself – I can’t stress this one enough. Throughout your engagement, make sure you take care of yourself by drinking plenty of water, eating right, and getting enough sleep. These three things alone will work wonders. And don’t forget your vitamins! After all, good skin reflects good health.

2. Don’t wait until the last minute – There are lots of things going on in the last few weeks leading up to your wedding such as fittings, tastings, and showers so it’s easy to forget or postpone any skin treatments like facials or microdermabrasion. But please don’t wait until the last month. Your skin needs time to heal after any procedure and even a facial (especially if it’s something your skin isn’t used to) can trigger an unwanted breakout. Make sure you plan and discuss your treatments with a qualified technician several months in advance.

3. Practice good skin care hygiene – Make sure you always wash your face and NEVER go to bed with your make up on, no matter how tired you are. But even more importantly, you want to make sure that you exfoliate and moisturize. This will help ensure that you have a clean, smooth base and your skin will be soft and supple. Whatever you do, don’t go changing your skin care routine too close to the wedding. Just like a skin care procedure, changing products, no matter how gentle, can irritate your skin. So if you want to experiment, make sure you do it several months in advance.

4. Choose the right foundation – Your foundation is the base layer for everything that goes on top, so you need to make sure it’s the right color and formulation for your skin. Don’t use anything heavy. Instead, pick a liquid or powder that works best for you. And don’t layer it on either, thinking that will cover up all the imperfections. It won’t work. Instead, use color correcting concealers. They do a much better job. Try a green/yellow for redness or peach/yellow for dark spots or circles around your eyes. If you’re not sure, go to your favorite make up counter and have someone show you. And if you’re still not comfortable, use a professional make up artist. They can always make you look your best.

5. Consider the lighting & time of day – Lastly, when planning your make up, take the time to think about where the wedding and photos will be taking place. Will you be indoors or out? Morning, afternoon, or evening? These all make a difference in how the light will hit your face and how your make up will appear. While a heavier hand is needed for an evening wedding, the same make up can look too harsh in the morning or mid day sun.

The final wedding tip? Smile! Nothing looks prettier, or more beautiful than a happy bride.

Cake Cutting Surprises

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 18:03:00 +0000

Looking for some fun ways to get your guests a little more involved during your reception? How about during the cake cutting?

Have Your Guests Serenade You – Have your DJ pass out lyrics to all of your guests and tell them it is a surprise. Guests love surprises and this will get more to participate. So your guests will gather around you and sing a song while you’re cutting the cake. Make sure your DJ knows ahead of time that this is something you want to incorporate. After you have chosen a song, print out the lyrics and you’re all set.

The Cake Smash with a Sneak Attack – Invite your Best Man and Maid of Honor to stand with you for a posed picture at the cake table. When it’s time for you to feed each other, you will smash cake on the faces of your Best Man and Maid of Honor. Make sure your DJ and Photographer are informed in advance. Imagine the great photos you will have.

February 2012 Northeast Ohio Bridal Shows

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 13:25:00 +0000

PMA's Spring 2012 Bridal Show at Great Lakes Mall

Saturday, February 4 thru Sunday, February 5 2012

During Mall Hours: 10 am - 9 pm Saturday and 11 am - 6 pm Sunday

Great Lakes Mall
Mentor, Ohio

Great Lakes Mall Bridal Show is one of the Eastside's longest running bridal shows where you can meet with top select bridal exhibitors for two full days to plan your big day the right way. You'll have chances to win many great prizes and best of all, admission is FREE. See the latest bridal fashions at our Grand Bridal Fashion Show on both Saturday and Sunday at 2 pm. Register at the show or online at the link below.

For more information call 330.952.1208

www.exhibitshows.

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Bridal & Beyond Winter Fair 2012 - Independence

Sunday, February 12th, 2012

11am - 3pm

Crowne Plaza Hotel Independence
5300 Rockside Road
Independence, Ohio 44131

Brides! You are cordially invited to attend our upcoming Bridal Fairs featuring some of Cleveland's most Talented Vendors who want to help you plan the Wedding of your Dreams! Enjoy Live Music, Taste Wedding Cake and Delicious Treats, View Designer Gowns on Live Model Mannequins and Win Fantastic Prizes all day long. Also, receive a special free gift from Bridal & Beyond and much more!

For more information call (440) 377-0073

www.bridalandbeyondonline.com

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PMA's Spring 2012 Spring Bridal Show at Summit Mall

Saturday, February 18 thru Sunday, February 19, 2012

During Mall Hours: 10 am - 9 pm Saturday and 11 am - 6 pm Sunday

Summit Mall
Akron, Ohio

Newly renovated Summit Mall is sure to have one of the best bridal shows in the area with everything you need to make all your wedding day dreams come true. Meet with top select exhibitors for all your bridal needs and enjoy two Grand Fashion Shows on both Saturday and Sunday. A chance to win great prizes and best of all, admission is FREE. Register at the show or online at the link below.

For more information call 330.952.1208

www.exhibitshows.com

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Bridal & Beyond Winter Fair 2012 - Westlake

Sunday, February 19th, 2012

11am - 3pm

LaCentre
25777 Detroit Road
Westlake, Ohio 44145

Brides! You are cordially invited to attend our upcoming Bridal Fairs featuring some of Cleveland's most Talented Vendors who want to help you plan the Wedding of your Dreams! Enjoy Live Music, Taste Wedding Cake and Delicious Treats, View Designer Gowns on Live Model Mannequins and Win Fantastic Prizes all day long. Also, receive a special free gift from Bridal & Beyond and much more!

For more information call (440) 377-0073

www.bridalandbeyondonline.com

Elegant Ice Creations Deal of the Day

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 14:31:00 +0000

Elegant Ice Creations in Broadview Heioghts is offering a deal on Groupon-Cleveland.

•For $50, you get a half-block luge (a $100 value).

•For $50, you get $100 toward any ice sculpture.

http://www.groupon.com/deals/elegant-ice-creations?c=dnb&p=2

Sandals - End of the Year Celebration

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 18:47:00 +0000

Celebrate the end of the year and look forward to the next with a romantic getaway to Sandals Resorts. A vacation where everything is INCLUDED and Love is all you need. Indulge in a world where endless white sand beaches, luxurious accommodations, gourmet restaurants and exotic intimate gardens are perfect interludes for privacy and romance.

Click on this link to treat yourselves and book your romantic Luxury Included® Vacation by Dec. 29, 2011 and save up to 65% on your room, get up to 2 nights free**, up to $175 spa credit***, a complimentary catamaran cruise and a free horseback riding tour at select resorts! Plus, for a limited time, get a $350 airfare.

Saving on Wedding Flowers

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 15:35:00 +0000

For many brides, an abundance of flowers and candles are key elements on their wedding day. But what do you do if your budget doesn’t afford you the freedom to spend thousands of dollars on flowers. How do you achieve the look you want for less?

Flowers play a big part both in wedding planning and expenses, so give yourself a minimum of six months before the wedding to plan them. It’s good to have some ideas early on, because you want your flowers to complement your dress, the overall color scheme, and the venue.

Here are some budget conscious ideas for the flowers -- ways to have a beautiful visual impact without spending a fortune.

Determine if you want live flowers or silk. Silk flowers are less expensive. They look and feel like the real thing, but are usually about half the cost and often can be rented. That way you don't have to burden your budget any more than necessary and you're also not stuck with arrangements after the ceremony and reception are over. If you choose not to rent, the centerpieces can be given away as a token of thanks to your guests.

If you decide to go with live flowers, it’s important to select flowers that are in season. Remember when choosing your flowers to keep in mind where you live and when you're getting married. If you pick local flowers that are in season they will be more affordable than exotic or imported varieties. If you really must have some exotic type of flower not grown in your area you might want to consider using silk flowers.

Choosing flowers that have a full and open bloom such as spider mums, gerbera daisies, hydrangeas, carnations, peonies, stephanotis, and dahlias will give you the look of more for less.

Carnations are one of the cheapest flowers. A lot of people dislike them. But when they are used in abundance so that the blooms are packed together, they can be quite striking. Consider a low square table centerpiece of 20 carnation blooms with all of their stems and greenery removed.

Tulips, daisies, carnations, and many exotic flowers are less than half the price of roses and add texture and color to otherwise boring and traditional wedding arrangements. If you must have roses, limit the number and add less expensive flowers as filler.

Think about choosing your main focal flower and using fillers such as greenery, baby breath, berries, and branches to fill in the open spaces. Instead of the traditional fillers, accent your bouquets and arrangements with ribbon, crystals, pearls and tulle.

Large arrangements on an altar will only be seen from far away. Use silk or inexpensive flowers such as carnations, or large filling flowers such as snowball mums.

Bridesmaids can carry a large single stem calla lily for a simple and elegant look.

To achieve a stylish look with your centerpieces, incorporate a variety of candles at different heights with your floral arrangement. You can also accent the candles with a single stem and floating candle. Four or five pillar candles on top of rose petals make an elegant and inexpensive centerpiece. You can also easily create a centerpiece using wide shallow bowls filled with water and several floating gerbera daisy blooms.

Fill spaces throughout the ceremony and reception venues, with greenery instead of flowers. Large potted plants can be rented for significantly less than flowers. Ivy and other greenery are also beautiful as an accent. Talk to party rental suppliers about renting large potted plants such as tropical palms or ficus. They visually fill a lot of space, and will help frame your ceremony site or warm up your reception. Best of all, renting a potted plant is far cheaper than buying large arrangements. Also, you may consider purchasing these large plants and using them in your home afterwards to get more use out of them.

Another popular way to save money is to decorate the head table with bridal party bouquets after the ceremony is over. After the Formals have been taken, no one will be carrying around those beautiful bouquets, but they will make your tables look stunning. Another popular cost-cutting measure is to turn to balloons, or lanterns for modern centerpieces. Finally, pew bows and decorations are simple to make, even for brides that “don’t do crafts.”

So when it comes down to it, beautiful floral effects are really all in the planning. Once you’ve figured out your arrangements and décor, you just need to find a florist or designer, you can turn your dreams into reality, or acquire the skills and know-how you need to do it yourself. If you do go with a florist, it’s important to find them early, and even more important to choose one with a great reputation — never, ever go on price alone, or you could be truly disappointed.

When you have decided on the flowers and the complete look, all you’ll be able to do is sit back and be in awe at how closely your wedding décor matches the wedding of your dreams.

Buy One, Get One Free with Wedding Paper Divas

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 04:42:00 +0000

Purchase a Christmas greeting card or Hanukkah greeting card, can enjoy a second absolutely free. This offer applies exclusively to Christmas greeting cards and Hanukkah greeting cards and is not applicable to previously placed orders or stationery.

When placing your order use the code listed below.

Code: BOGO12
Offer expires 12/20/11 at 11:59 pm (PT)

TinyPrints - Order Holiday Cards Today!

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 04:29:00 +0000

On Monday and Tuesday, if you the code below for Free Express Shipping (three business days, $24.95 value) or $5 off Super Rush Shipping (2 business days, pricing will change after first 5,000 orders). This is a great way to assure you receive your holiday cards in time. Cards ordered on today with Express Shipping will arrive by 12/24.

Code: FS5GIFT, Exp: 12/20 11:59pm PT

Brunch Wedding Receptions

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 13:30:00 +0000

Looking for a way to cut down on reception costs? Brunch Reception.

A brunch reception has a few advantages, the major one being costs. Brunch receptions cost less than a dinner reception. Also, the venue of your choice will probably be available considering it will take play earlier in the day. What about hosting your reception at a local restaurant or hotel?

Another is the cost of alcohol will be lower as well. People tend to drink less during the early afternoon timeframe. If you decide to serve alcohol, you could have wine and champagne. Some venues will offer guests a complimentary glass of champagne or mimosa.

Here are a few ideas you can incorporate into your brunch reception:

• Provide one seadfood station – Large jump shrimp, smoked salmon, etc.

• Have made-to-order stations – Guests will enjoy the chef’s attention as he prepares a custom omlete, pancakes or crepes made to their specifications. They also serve as great conversation starters.

• Give a classic gourmet twist – Eggs Benedict made with lobster and crab cakes.

• The best Blood Mary Bar EVER! – Guests will enjoy having their drinks made directly in front of them.

• Provide budget friendly refreshments/drinks – coffee, tea, or chai bar

• Light and air desserts – Such as parfaits, whipped mousse with fresh mango.

• Fruit Platters – Guests can top off their light meal with pretty dessert cups filled with sweet mandarin oranges. Remember a single type of fruit looks more sophisticated than a mixed fruit cup.

Weekly Pick - Noir By Lazaro

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 14:10:00 +0000

I love this bridesmaid dress by Noir By Lazaro. It's very elegant and I love the one shoulder and the way the fabric just flows.

http://www.jlmcouture.com/Noir-By-Lazaro

January 2012 Northeast Ohio Bridal Shows

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 13:12:00 +0000

Ivy and Aster Trunk Show

Friday, January 13th, 2012 to Sunday, January 15th, 2012

Something White, A Bridal Boutique
6596 Brecksville Road
Independence, 44131

Be sure to stop in and see all the beautiful and NEW Ivy & Aster gowns with all their fun sashes and jackets at Something White! Also, if there is a gown you are dying to try on, give us a call and we will do our best to make sure it's at the show! Please call 216.447.9620 for an appointment if you are interested in trying on these whimsical beauties.

For more information call 216.447.9620

www.somethingwhitebridal.com

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2012 Grand Pacific Junction Bridal Soiree

January 21, 2012

11am to 6pm

Grand Pacific Junction Hotel, Chapel and Merchants
8112 Columbia Road
Olmsted Falls, Oh 44138

Join us for a full day of visiting our beautiful Historic Grand Pacific Hotel and Chapel in addition to the many speciality shops. We are the perfect venue and chapel for your wedding celebration. Restaurants, florist, photographer, bridal attire, wedding services and more can help you plan the wedding event of your dreams.

For more information call Shawn Jeffrey 440-235-0613

gpjmerchants@yahoo.com

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The Bertram Bridal Show

Sunday, January 22nd, 2012

1 pm - 5 pm

The Bertram Inn and Conference Center
600 North Aurora Road
Aurora, OH 44202

Join us for the 14th year at The Bertram Bridal Show! Featuring the best bridal fashions in Northeast Ohio. Visit our totally interactive area with fun and fantastic demos, the Ultimate Reception Experience with live band, cake, punch and activities for our guests. New this year is our Mobile Man Cave ready to get your groom in the spirit of wedding planning and attending a bridal show with his bride! Plus...our infamous Clash of the Cupcakes...featuring a live drawing with more contestants and prizes than ever! Admission is Free with registration for all brides and grooms - $5 for all other guests at the door.

For more information call 330.837.9309

www.thebertraminn.com

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Brides by the Bay Bridal Show

Sunday, January 22, 2012

12:30 pm to 4:00 pm

Lyman Harbor Waterfront Complex
1615 First Street
Sandusky, Ohio 44870

Join Lyman Harbor, The Brides World and Tux World as they host the 6th annual Brides by the Bay Bridal Show on Sandusky's beautiful waterfront. See the newest fashion for everyone in the wedding party from The Brides World and Tux World along with over 60 vendors to make your wedding dreams a reality! This year we have something new for the guys....The Men's Quarter, a special place where the can watch the game, see their own vendors, plus enjoy special drink offers! Also on this special Sunday, Lyman Harbor will be unveiling their newest banquet room.

$5.00 admission at the door.

For more information call 419-625-9626

www.bridesbythebaystyleshow.com

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I Do Bridal Soiree at Wagner's Country Inn

Sunday, January 22, 2012

1pm - 4pm

Wagner's Country Inn
30855 Center Ridge Road
Westlake, 44145

$5.00 Pre-registered or $5.00 at the door

All pre-registered brides will receive a "Swag Bag"

Pre-register at the website below

For more information call 440-320-3255 or 419-357-0804

http://amynixonevents.blogspot.com

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Boutique Bridal Bazaar hosted by Something White,
A Bridal Boutique

Sunday, January 29, 2012

12 pm to 5 pm

Dregers Union
2043 East 4th Street
Cleveland, Ohio 44115

An Out-of the-Ordinary Bridal Extravaganza!

The Boutique Bridal Bazaar is an atypical bridal show for brides seeking vendors and products that will help them pull off a unique and stylish wedding. Come ready to taste culinary confections, acquire accoutrements, feast your eyes on the latest wedding fashions and be all-around imspired.

Tickets are available for online purchase $5 at bridalbazaar.evenbrite.com.

Tickets can also be purchased on the day of the event for $10.

For more information call Something White @ 216.447.9620

www.boutiquebridalbazaar.com

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Haute Bride Trunk Show

Friday, January 27th, 2012 to Sunday, January 29th, 2012

Something White, A Bridal Boutique
6596 Brecksville Road
Independence, 44131

Start early and don't wait until the last minute to purchase your wedding jewelry! This is one of our favorite trunk shows at Something White because you don't have to be a bride to enjoy it! We will have hundreds of pieces of jewelry in our shop made from fresh water pearls and Swarovski crystals than can be worn as a bride, as a bridesmaid, as a wedding guest or just someone who likes pretty jewelry!

For more information call 216.447.9620

www.somethingwhitebridal.com

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I Do Bridal Soiree at DeLuca's Place in the Park

Sunday, January 29th, 2012

DeLuca's Place in the Park
6075 Middle Ridge Road
Lorain, 44053

$5.00 Pre-registered or $5.00 at the door

The first 50 Brides who pre-register will receive a "Swag Bag"

Pre-register at the website below

For more information call 440-320-3255 or 419-357-0804

http://amynixonevents.blogspot.com

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Ever After Bridal Event at Landerhaven

January 29, 2012

11am to 4pm

Landerhaven by Executive Caterers
6111 Landerhaven Drive
Mayfield Heights, Oh 44124

The Bridal Event of the Season!

Special Guest Speaker: Bridal Designer Legend - Demetrios Elias

Breakout sessions and Q&A with experts in areas that affect a bride's wedding experience and beyond.

A uniquely designed area for grooms to relax and learn about tuxedos and formal wear, reception bar menu ideas, cigars or just to watch the game.

For more information call 440.449.0700

info@executivecaterers.com

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PMA's Spring 2012 Bridal Show at Westfield SouthPark Mall

Saturday, January 28 thru Sunday, January 29, 2012

During Mall Hours: 10 am - 9 pm Saturday and 11 am - 6 pm Sunday

Westfield SouthPark Mall

Strongsville, Ohio

Meet with over 60 bridal related exhibitors in a natural shopping environment, SouthPark Mall Bridal Show is sure to have everything you need to plan your big day! Two full days to make all your dreams come true and best of all, admission is FREE. Enjoy the Grand Bridal Fashion Show at 2 pm on both Saturday and Sunday, brought to you by A Bridal Boutique located in Medina, Ohio. Changes to win over 60 free prizes. Register at the show or online at the link below.

For more information call 330.952.1208

www.exhibitshows.com

Wedding Day Accessories - Bridal Belts

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 13:46:00 +0000

Looking a something to add a special touch to your wedding gown or your bridesmaids' dresses? Shop for Bridal Direct have really nice Bridal Belts. www.shopforbridaldirect.com

Is It okay to have an Uneven Bridal Party?

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 19:30:00 +0000

Do you have more bridesmaids than groomsmen or vice versa? There is nothing wrong with have an uneven number of attendants and is actually more common in today’s weddings. You do have options when it comes to the processional and recessional.

How to solve the walking down the aisle issue?

Consider having one bridesmaid on each arm!

Think about having the groomsmen enter in with the groom and have the ladies walk alone

Consider having the groomsmen walk down first followed by the bridesmaids

Think about having them alternate, i.e. bridesmaid, groomsman, bridesmaid, and so forth

For the Recessional, have them paired, then have the extra attendants walk out alone

Don’t spend too much time stressing over what to do with an uneven bridal party. Remember, what really matters is that you have all the people who are important to you by your side on your wedding day.

If you’re worried about how your pictures will turn out, DON’T! This is an opportunity for your photographer to demonstrate and utilize his/her creativity. You will be surprised at the different poses they will come up with.

But if you’re absolutely set on having an even number of bridesmaids and groomsmen, think about asking some of them to be ushers, gift attendants, read a poem, escort your mother or escort a grandmother. That way they can still have a special role at your wedding.

Sweet Dreams Candy Buffet

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 15:45:00 +0000

Thinking of a candy buffet for your special day? You are not alone! More and more couples are choosing a table full of sweets for their wedding reception. (Besides, who doesn't love candy?) It's the new trend and will add fun and color to any event. For the young at heart, it's a great way to thank your guests for attending your event!

Simply Elegant Consulting announces their new package "SWEET DREAMS" - a unique candy buffet designed just for you!

Your candy buffet should reflect your personality and style for your wedding. We will incorporate elements that coordinate with your theme and colors to make it even more unforgettable. So contact us today so we can begin designing the buffet of your dreams!

Our Sweet Dreams Package includes:

- candy

- design

- various containers

- candy scoopers

- linens

- plastic candy bags w/ties

- theme accessories

- candy delivery

- candy setup

- take down and cleanup

Cost: $2.75/person

Vera Wang's Dramatic Black Wedding Dresses

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 01:40:00 +0000

Can you imagine a bride walking down the aisle in a black wedding dress? Vera Wang can and she created some fabulous black wedding dresses. Click on the link below and let me know what you think.

http://bit.ly/qUmsl5

Who Participates in the Wedding Rehearsal?

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 13:11:00 +0000

I’m often asked by my clients who should attend their rehearsal. Anyone who has a role in the actual wedding ceremony should be there. Below is a list of persons and their role.

Bride & Groom: The two are a given for attending the rehearsal since they are key components to the ceremony. They will need to practice the processional, being given away, walked through the order of the ceremony and the recessional.

Parents & Grandparents: They will also need to practice their entrance, the lighting of the unity candle (if applicable), where to sit, the father giving the bride away and the recessional.

Wedding Party: The maid/matron of honor, bridesmaids, best man, groomsmen, flower girls, ring bearer, bell ringer, etc. They are the supporting cast and will also need to practice the processional, where and how to stand, and the recessional.

Officiant: Keep in mind that most officiants do not attend the rehearsal, so it is important that the wedding planner meets with the officiant before the rehearsal. If the officiant attends he/she will need to know how they are walking in and with whom. The officiant or wedding planner will explain various points in the ceremony to entire wedding party based on the ceremony program.

Singers & Musicians: It is important for them to be there because everyone involved in the processional will need to practice walking to the actual music. The soloist will have the opportunity to sing and get comfortable with the musician(s) and sound system.

Readers: They will need to get comfortable with the microphone and sound system as well, have an opportunity to rehearse, and know where to sit to easily make their way to the front to do the reading.

Hostesses & Ushers: They usually greet the guests; have them sign the guest book, hand out programs, seat guest, etc. There will be some occasions where the Ushers will have to escort grandmothers and/or mothers during the processional. It’s important for them to be in attendance so that they know exactly where to be, what to do and what tasks have chosen for them.

I can not stress enough the importance of having each participant in attendance. Not only will everyone know their roles, but it helps with finalizing the timing of the ceremony. All these things will ensure that any wedding day runs as smoothly as possible. More importantly, it‘s one less thing the bride will have to worry about on her special day.

Save on the Date

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 14:24:00 +0000

Want to know one of the simplest ways to save some money on your wedding? Join the list of couples who are choosing to get married on Thursday, Friday or Sunday nights. Picking those days, or really any other day, is less expensive than the traditional Saturday wedding.

Saturdays have been the wedding day of choice for years. But a new day is dawning. Brides have figured out that it’s cheaper to get married on Thursdays, Fridays and Sunday nights. These nights are really popular during a long 3 day holiday weekend. Hmmmm, that’s really something to think about, now isn’t it?

Basically, it’s cheaper to get married on any other day EXCEPT Saturday. You’ll have to make the decision if any other day will work for you. I can understand if you’re hell bent on getting married on a Saturday because it has been historically the most common wedding day. But if you’re a little flexible, you can save a lot of money by saving your Saturday for sleeping in.

The Four Rules Of Wedding Websites

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 15:22:00 +0000

Want to keep your guests informed by creating your own wedding website? Great! They’re quick and easy to set up. Plus, they’re a great way to keep all of your guests up to date on all things related to your wedding.

They’re lots of great tools, and most of them are F*R*E*E! Yippee! But the best ones also offer extras like free planning advice and resources geared for the bride. Try The Knot (www.theknot.com), My Wedding (www.mywedding.com) and the Wedding Channel (www.weddingchannel.com). But if you don’t like those, no worries. A simple search for wedding sites will turn up many options.

If you do create a wedding site, just remember these four rules:

1. Make sure it looks like you! This is your wedding after all. Your wedding site needs to reflect your own personal style.

2. Follow Etiquette. Don’t list the website on your actual invitations. Instead, include it on another item enclosed in the packet such as the response card. And whatever you do, don’t overemphasize your gift registry. That’s still a no-no.

3. Keep it simple. Don’t make your site so full of details and pages that no one can find the essentials that they’re looking for. Not everyone is tech savy. Nor do they unlimited time to devote to learning about your wedding. They have their own lives. So keep it to a few, well-designed pages.

4. Stay focused. Your wedding site is for details about your wedding. It is NOT the place to include a lot of personal information. Remember, your friends and relatives are going to be looking at this site for guidance and you want everyone who visits your site to feel comfortable and welcome. Grandma probably doesn’t want to know all of the details of your first kiss.

And remember, no one likes to be left out of the loop and not everyone has access to the Internet. So if you post important information on your site, make sure that you distribute it via hard copy as well to those who can’t access it.

Finally, don’t forget to back it all up! Technology isn’t perfect and things do happen. Files get accidentally deleted, items get erased, words typed over, and systems crash. And always at the most inappropriate times! Make sure you back up your files weekly if not daily to make sure that you don’t lose important information. It’s also a good idea to keep a paper file as well that includes hard copies of your most pertinent information such as the guest list, budget, lodging and contracts. That way, you’ll have them no matter what.

A Bride's Story

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 12:50:00 +0000

RT @Invites4Less : Have to love this bride's story of her very own glass slippers! http://bit.ly/n8IYIZ

Personalized Place & Escort Cards

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 12:49:00 +0000

Would you like to give your guests a little something special as a favor? Think about personalized place and escort cards. Visit Designs by Tanisha to check out the variety she offers. http://www.etsy.com/shop/DesignsByTenisha?section_id=1021392

COUPLICIOUS WEDNESDAY ESCAPE

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 14:29:00 +0000

Book by September 21, 2011; Travel Between September 25 – December 25,2011.

*Discount up to $376 per night

*Reserve Deluxe Ocean at Couples Tower Isle or One Bedroom Ocean Suite at Couples Sans Souci

*7 night minimum stay

*Participating resorts: Couples Tower Isle and Couples Sans Souci

*Rate code G138 will display when booking online

For reservations call: 1.800.268.7537

Couples Resort Special

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Wed, 25 May 2011 14:26:00 +0000

Ocho Rios/Negril, Jamaica: Save an ADDITIONAL 22% off

Book By: May 25th, 2011

Travel Date Range: September 1st, 2011 - September 30th, 2011

This Wednesday escape is for the slightly adventurous and romantically inclined -- an unforgettable vacation at an award-winning, all-inclusive, adults-only Couples Resort. Which one? They will let you know 7 days prior to your arrival. Only $269 per night.

WHY IT'S A DEAL

•Run of House

•Rates From $269/nt all-inclusive

•All-Inclusive Meals, Beverages & Activities

•Adult Couples Only

•Spa, Golf & Watersports

••Mystery Selection from 4 Luxury, Adult Couples-Only Resorts

•Book Today Only! May 28, 2011

Couples Secret Rendezvous HIGHLIGHTS

•Complimentary Round Trip Transfers to/from MBJ

•4.5 Star Luxury Beachfront Resorts

•World-Class Spas

•Adult Couples-Only

•Fine dining and beach beverage service

•All-Inclusive Activities, Meals & Beverages

•Premium brand liquors

•Swim-up pool bars

•No tabs, no, tips, no kids, no curfew

Book Here

Preparing for Your Wedding Pictures - Tip #6

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 14:00:00 +0000

Consider your lighting- Do take the time to stop and think about if the event/ photos will be taking place indoors or out, and at what time of day. Indoor photos will be taken with flash, so it’s important to use powder to combat shine and to also be sure foundation is matched well. If outdoors, soften makeup a bit as it can easily look too heavy or harsh in sunlight.

Preparing for Your Wedding Pictures - Tip #5

noreply@blogger.com (Dana Scott) — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 13:36:00 +0000

Skip the glitter- Radiance-enhancing or shimmery foundations make faces look too slick and shiny for photos, so if you must, keep the sheen only on cheekbones and the cupid’s bow for highlighting purposes. Always finish the t-zone with powder, and and blot any oiliness as needed. The older you are, the more important it is to avoid shimmery eye makeup, as it tends to bring attention to fine lines.