Weddingzilla

Are you ready for marriage? Can you adult? Take the test.

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Thu, 02 May 2019 07:29:00 +0000

Are you ready for marriage? Take the test. It's easy, it's practical. Dive in.

You are engaged to be married. But are you ready? You say you are, but you are not sure if you are ready for the responsibility of marriage. Adulting can be hard work. Let’s find out.

1.Can you cook? Name 5 dishes you can make from scratch.

This doesn’t include any frozen microwavable or frozen oven baked dinners. If it comes from a package, like mac and cheese in a box, it doesn’t count.

Scoring: 5 or more dinners: 5 million points and a high five!

4 dinners: Good but can be great. Learn new dishes.

3 dinners: Needs improvement, keep trying.

2 dinners: Has anyone mentioned that processed foods are bad for your health? Take a cooking class STAT.

1 or no dinners: Don't you want to eat? Give it up. You aren’t marriage material.

2. Do you know finances and budgeting? Do you know anything about rental contracts, mortgages, HOAs? Do you know the cost of electric, heat, gas, water, sewer, cable, Netflix, cell phone plans?

If you only know the cost of cell phones, Netflix, the cost of drinks at various bars, you aren’t ready! Grow up, you are not ready for marriage.

3.It’s time to pay bills. What are your priorities? If you say Netflix, phone, hair extensions, nails, beer, entertainment, sporting events and concert tickets, you are so not ready for marriage.

4.Do you know how to change a baby? Feed a baby? Burp a baby? Are you able to get up during the night when the baby is crying? Are you able to figure out if the baby is hungry, needs changed or just had a nightmare? If you want to get married and you’ve never done any of the above, stay single and practice birth control. You’re not ready.

5.Do you know how to do laundry? Can you wash clothes without fading your jeans all over your light color clothes, leaving everything a blue/gray? Does everything come out dingy and wrinkled? What did you do in college when you didn’t have mom to do your laundry? Fail.

A vintage spin class?

6.What skills do you have in a crunch situation? Do you have a flashlight in case of a power failure? Do you know how to disarm a smoke alarm? Do you even HAVE a smoke detector? If you also have a CO 2 detector, I’ll personally get you to the church on time. You win this round of the marriage test.

A tornado is coming! Do you gather the family and the dog and

take cover or go outside to take a selfie in the tornado’s path and post it to Instagram? I don’t even have to tell you how to score this one.

7. Does your job have health insurance? Do you even have a job? Do you have a clue how much doctor visits cost, medications, x-rays, blood tests, emergency room visits and hospitalizations? Last week the doctor was going to prescribe an injection because I couldn’t tolerate a medication. The cost? $4600 and not covered by my insurance. And that’s a month! WTH? Google the cost of having a baby and be prepared to have your mind blown.

8.The dog needs to go out. Do you walk him or let him suffer until he explodes on the carpet? If you abuse the dog in this manner, what would you do if your baby is crying and hungry, needs their diaper changed and the wife is out grocery shopping? The kid and the dog are going to be hating on you.

9. The yard needs mowed before the city fines you for having a jungle in your yard. Do you continue with your online gaming and ignore it or do you tell your wife to mow it because you are “busy.” Either way, major fail. Adulting requires work before play.

10. It’s your fiance’s birthday. Do you go home right after work or stop off with friends for a drink? If you choose stopping off, you’ll soon be single. None of this matters, you're not marriage material.

7 Wedding Expectations versus 7 Jolts of Reality

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Wed, 24 Apr 2019 07:14:00 +0000

Are your wedding expections set too high? Do you think you have every angle covered so nothing can go wrong? Think again.

photo from Kack.me

Expectation: My wedding will be perfect. Nothing will go wrong.

Reality: Murphy's Law: If something can go wrong, it will and at the most inopportune moment. Every wedding has something go wrong. It can be insignificant or major, like the cake falling down. Just roll with it. Some things you just can't control.
The day before my wedding I came down with a horrible cold. I was so sick that I could barely stand up and the cold meds made me sleepy and loopy. We were getting married outside in a garden and my husband's allergies hit him as soon as I was by his side. We laugh that he was allergic to me or that the guests thought it was his way to get out of the wedding. As awful as we both felt at that moment, the pics show two happy people who looked great.

Expectation: It's my day, it's all about me.

Realty: It's not all about you, it's about you and your partner entering into a marriage together. It's about family and friends celebrating your union. It's about love, and you are but a part of it.

Expectation: Our wedding will be just like a royal wedding.
Reality : Unless your parents are royalty, you are marrying royalty, or you are the only child of billionaires, you can't afford it.

Expectation: My bridesmaids will be so much help.
Reality: Your bridesmaids will be busy with their own life, school, jobs, kids. Don't expect them to stop what they are doing to help with a wedding chore at the drop of a hat. Don't think they will be available at your beck and call. The more considerate you are of their time, the more they will be willing to help.

Expectation: Everyone's going to get along.
Reality: Exes who don't get along outside of the wedding may or may not behave AT the wedding. Seat mom and her new spouse and dad and his new spouse at opposite ends of the hall and station relatives nearby that will keep them from crossing paths.

Maids have been known to argue and not agree. Once at my bridal salon, a large group of maids got into a fist fight that spilled outside. They left in separate cars leaving the bride alone in the salon crying...and with no ride for the hour and a half drive home. PS: These women are attorneys.

Expectation: My bachelorette party will be a weekend in Las Vegas.

photo from Bachelorettevegas.com

Reality: Unless you live in Las Vegas or nearby, its not likely to happen. I had many brides in my bridal salon cry because all the plans were messed up. Maids didn't have the money because they were college students, newly married, just had a baby, couldn't get out of work or school and they just didn't save the money to travel. Be realistic. And if they can go, or if they do go, don't expect them to pay your way, your hotel room, your food and all your drinks. Party close to home and they'll love you forever.

Expectation: The bridesmaids are going to love the dresses I've picked out.

Reality: There are going to be maids that despise your choice of dress that they probably will never wear again. Keep your maids body issues in mind when you pick out dresses. If you have a maid that is large busted or uncomfortable in a strapless dress. Allow them to add a shrug or bolero or have your maids pick out a style that flatters them in the same fabric,color and length as you specify. Your pics and wedding will look uniform and fab with all the maids looking smashing and happy.

photo from weddings in the Philippines

Will You Include Your Dog In Your Wedding Party?

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Sun, 14 Apr 2019 23:35:00 +0000

Will You Include Your Dog In Your Wedding Party?

If you are a dog person, like me, someone probably has jokingly mentioned having your dog in the wedding. If you and your fiancé are serious dog parents, the thought may have crossed your mind. Or are you one of those people who just cannot fathom getting married without their best friend present?

People do include their pets in the wedding. We once had to make a middle age bride who brought her dog to every one of her dress fittings. She'd say, "Do you love Momma's dress?" He wagged his tail, so we considered it a doggie thumbs up. Or paws up. She had a garland of flowers made for the dogs’ neck to match her bouquet and her fiancé’s boutonniere. The dog followed her down the aisle and stood between her and the groom. The wedding was at a country club. The bride and groom walked around the reception with the dog on a leash that was encircled in fresh flowers. As screwy as it sounded, it looked very cool in the pictures.

Another couple had their daughter, the flower girl, pull their dog down the aisle in a flower draped wagon. It was adorable watching her little face as she concentrated on her job. The dog sat still the entire time.

Wedding Schnauzer

I attended an out of state cousins wedding where the dog was the best man. It was a bohemian wedding in a church on a lake. It was picture perfect on the outside. On the inside...well....it was different. The officiant was a throwback hippie with his long hair in a ponytail and a necklace with both a cross and a peace sign. The groom was barefoot in a tux jacket over jeans. The dog had a big bow on his neck and followed the groom around.

The bride was barefoot in a traditional wedding dress. The bride's mom, and not the dog, stole the show. She wore the top of a white bikini swimsuit with an open lace shirt jacket over white 1960's hip hugger polyester bell bottom pants. She wore a crown of fresh flowers and shiny gold flip flops. Seriously. I thought I was going to pass out when she was escorted down the aisle. I didn't know if I should laugh or cry....I laughed, I snickered and did the whole surpressed laughter thing. So, having a dog as the best man didn't seem all that unusual at this point.

The dog was well behaved. I don't know if he signed the marriage certificate as the best man. I only wish I could find the pictures to show you.

So, before you plan for your dog to be a part of the wedding, ask if the church, venue, etc. will allow your pet on the premises. Some will welcome your pet, others will not. Even if you are having an outdoor wedding, check first. The Chapel of the Flowers in Las Vegas does allow your dog to be part of the ceremony as long as you have someone to keep the dog in check and on a leash.

Will your pet behave?

Will your pet be scared by all the people, commotion, festivities?

Will your pet bark, run amok or, God forbid, potty during the wedding?

Will you have a pet wrangler to care for your pet during the wedding or if the dog misbehaves or is scared?

I've never had a dog that wouldn't freak out or behave well enough to take part in a wedding. Even thought my pets have always listened and behaved like little angels (cough, cough) at home, in public, not. My little Annie would cling like velcro dog and have to be carried down the aisle while she whimpered. But she'd be so darn cute! Plus she'd keep her bows in her hair.

Annie Belle

Rocco Domenico

And Rocco? He'd do puppy eyes, smile, wag his tail at everyone, shake hands, high five and maybe do his Elvis lip. I can't imagine not having them at our wedding. Spoiler: I'm married. Maybe on an anniversary....

My dogs are my family and my puppy children who provide us with lots of love and laughs. They have never spent all my money, had parties when we weren't home and wrecked my car. There was one shoe that got chewed, but I'm over it now.

If you are going to have your dogs in the wedding, comment and let us know how you are using them in the wedding.

If you had dogs at your wedding, tell us all about it in the comments. I can't wait to hear about it!

Don't Let Wedding Planning Torpedo Your Relationship

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Wed, 10 Apr 2019 19:24:00 +0000

You just got engaged and you are walking on clouds and sunshine. Life is so amazing. Nothing can torpedo the relationship. You wake up in the night just to look at your ring and confirm it's not a dream, you are actually getting married. Whoo hoo! Yay! We are sooooo in love. We are going to have a romantic, dream wedding. NOTHING can go wrong, right?

photo from Naval Analyses

Before you jump headfirst into wedding planning, WHOA! Take a break and do some serious talking with your fiance. If parents are helping pay for the wedding, talk to them also. Stave off all the arguments by making some serious decisions before you sign any contracts.

Planning a wedding, like a marriage, involves compromise. No compromise equals constant fighting that will eventually torpedo a relationship.

Are you and your fiance on the same page as to the kind and style of wedding you want?

photo from Lovemyweddingmag

If you want a formal cathedral wedding and he wants a barn wedding in the woods, there needs to be a lot of discussion and decision on type of wedding. Can you find a happy medium? Can you find a way to incorporate both of what you want and stay in budget? If you are marrying a groomzilla, look out.

You are different religions. Are you going to go with one religion over the other for the ceremony? Are your parents going to get into the discussion/ arguement? In what religion are you going to raise any future children?

Religion is a hot button with couples and their families. These questions need to be addressed and discussed BEFORE you make wedding plans. I've known couples who broke up because they couldn't compromise or agree. Or because parents of one of the couple created such a situation if the groom converted to the bride's religion. The bride decided that if he'd not stand up for what he wanted as an adult, he wasn't marriage material.

Money and budget. You have saved X amount of money and parents are contributing (or not) X amount of money.

photo from weddingvenuechicago

How are you going to spend it? How are you going to allocate to the reception,invitations, flowers, aparel, attendants gifts, etc?

What is the most important? What is the least important?

How are you going to stick to the budget? If you overspend in one category, which categories will you cut down to balance the budget?

How many guests can you afford to you invite? This includes your family, his family and your friends. How many invitations will you allocate to your family, his family and your friends?

Can you stand your ground when his parents want extra invites for friends they haven't seen in 20 years? Or your parents because people "owe them a gift" because they gifted at their friends' family wedding? Or your fiance because he wants to invite his entire fraternity and baseball team and their significant others?
Most wedding venues charge per head. If you invite just a few extra people, or guests bring their children, it can be a budget buster.

Before you become mortal enemies over wedding planning, here's some things to keep in mind:

The wedding is about the relationship, your relationship with each other. The wedding is NOT ABOUT THE PARTY.  If you only care about the party/reception, call a halt to the planning. You'll save yourself from a divorce.

Take a break from wedding planning for a week or two. Take the time to de-stress, take walks, a yoga class, play with your dog, have a date night with no wedding talk.

Once you and your fiance come to terms with what your vision is for your wedding, listen to others, but stand your ground.

Forget the "Is my day, it's all about me" attitude unless you want all of us to be hating on you. It's about BOTH of you and your future together.

The Nearly Naked Bride and Kick Ass Wedding Finds

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Mon, 08 Apr 2019 07:15:00 +0000

This weekend I was blown away with some new wedding finds and ideas. Living in Las Vegas and having worked at Las Vegas wedding chapels, I thought I saw it all, but then BAM! Someone had a different idea. Like yesterday, when I saw a bride with a blue bikini thong. She wore a long blue wig and no top. NO TOP! OMG!! Her wig cascaded over her breasts. I wish I could say she looked fabulous, but she didn't. And it was her wedding!! I wonder how many paramedics it took to revive their moms and grandmas.

Photo from Pinterest UK

So here's some fun finds that won't send mom and grandma into cardiac arrest.

Design and print your own wedding invitations.

Evermine weddings is a family run printing company in Portland, Oregon that specializes in custom invitations. All their materials are sourced in the USA. You design using their templates, they print. But before they print, you are sent a preview for your approval and a designer will go over your invitation to make sure the wording and design are perfect. You can order samples and discounts and coupons are available on their site. This site has one of the highest star satisfaction ratings so check it out.

Evermine also prints labels for wine bottles, coasters, hang tags, wedding favor labels, save the date cards and just about anything you can print. I love the idea it is a USA company using USA materials and run by a family.

Rent monogram lighting, up lights and more for your reception and its affordable

Rent My Wedding is a company that rents reception uplights, monogram lights , backdrops, photo booths, special effects and linens. The company was started by a bride who was trying to find brides who wanted to "share" these items in order to save money on her own wedding. The response morphed into Rent My Wedding. She has top ratings from WeddingWire and theKnot Best of Weddings.

The company offers free shipping to you and back to the company. Win,Win! Shipping has gone up so much that including it in the product rental is time and money saving.

Monogram Light from Rent My Wedding

My friend used this company for her reception and the monogram light was mind blowing, it was the focal point as you entered the reception. Having seen so many weddings, I don't impress easily, but this time I did. I thought she'd spent hundreds, she didn't, she spent $99.00 and it included shipping.

Are you looking for personalized wedding favors?

Check out MyWeddingFavors & More. There are so many favor choices in so many categories on this site that your eyes will cross looking at them. Decisions, decisions. They also have prices in all budget, some so affordable, it will cost you less than DIY-ing your favors.

How cute are these cowboy boot bubble favors at $6.29 for 24 favors? That's less than 27 cents each and they are so perfect for a western themed wedding.

I am crushing on some of the different bottle openers. You'll never find ANYTHING like them at Bed Bath & Beyond or Wayfair. (By the way, both are some of my fave shopping spots,) I'm loving the bling opener because I love bling, the seahorse opener for a beach wedding or the antler opener for the hunter/ rustic wedding. And maybe 20 more for all sorts of reasons. And I can use it over and over.

Now its time to take a deep breath and relax from all your wedding planning. Namaste. Have an amazing week!

Bridezillas Are Real, Meet Katherine

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Fri, 05 Apr 2019 19:16:00 +0000

FYI: I joined the family bridal salon as an embryo...almost. For 33 years I learned how to run and manage a business and how every bride is special. I am the Bridezilla Whisperer, except for Katherine.

Katherine came in for her wedding dress shopping appointment with seven bridesmaids, two flowergirls, her mother, her stepmother and her dad's latest girlfriend. You could feel the tension, it was uncomfortable for everyone. Katherine was organized, her notebook was full of must haves and photos of what she liked and didn't like. The first thing she said was "I thought I would have the shop all to myself." I'm thinking: does Walmart close for you? Macy's? Kleinfeld's?

It was a busy Saturday. Seems every bride brought a full posse with her. Our bridal salon was on two floors, but with the large groups, it was crowded. Katherine (don't call me Kathy) kept announcing she had an appointment and had the balls to ask the other brides if they did....like they'd leave to accommodate her.

Upstairs with my best consultant to try on dresses, while I and 3 other consultants were dealing with the main floor, the flower girls were running around unsupervised. I could hear jumping. Then a huge thud. It was so hard and so loud that it knocked a light out of the track lighting in the ceiling on the main floor. One of the little ones had been jumping off the pedestals where the bride stands during a fitting...and caught her foot in the flower girl dress she had on. Not only did she take a nasty fall, she tore the dress down the front. Katherine says...."Your dresses are junk, it shouldn't have torn." The skirt was taffeta and tulle...tulle tears when you run your shoe through it. Duh!!

The flower girls were sliding down the steps on their belly.. They were running around the racks...and as God is my witness....one of them blew their nose in one of the gowns on the rack. Kid's mom laughed and laughed. The other customers were grossed out. I didn't know whether to cry or scream. Dress trashed equals money directly out of my pocket. If you are counting that's two trashed dresses. Yes, they managed to pull down a mannequin, tore a veil and almost ran out into the street. I was trying to stay calm and watch the kids, but its not my job to watch YOUR kids.

They weren't out of the store 5 minutes before I get a call from Katherine. We were rude to her. We SHOULD have all given her our undivided attention. I had no right asking the flower girls to stop jumping and playing on the steps. Yada, yada. I asked her if she wanted a refund, she said she wanted her dress. I prayed she'd back out of the sale. She wouldn't.

She dropped in unannounced at least twice a week with a list of complaints. I never saw her happy or smile. I wished she'd never walked in my door. I began my litany of apologies, although unwarranted, anything to shut her up.

Next came the official "You are not paying attention to me" letter that I got in the mail outlining all her slights when she was in the shop. I signed for a UPS delivery. I greeted a customer with a hello. I answered a question from a staff member.. Geeze. I got on the phone and asked her just exactly what did she expect from the salon and just what did she want from me. She said she'd let me know. She never did.

An hour later, in walks her fiance. He was a nice looking tall guy who looked like a fish out of water in a bridal salon. He was clearly uncomfortable telling me how I'd hurt her feelings, how I looked at her like she was fat, how I didn't think she was pretty enough to wear her dress. Clearly she was mental. I wanted to cry because I've never treated anyone badly or hurt anyone's feelings.I'd won customer service awards from TheKnot and had the highest customer service ratings from my customers. I beat out all my competitors. I told him I was sorry if she perceived she was treated badly, but that wasn't the case. Why would I look at her as being fat when I clearly outweighed her by 30 pounds? He admitted she had a problem. I didn't ask what it was. I also didn't ask what a nice guy like him is doing with a crazy gal like her. I didn't tell him to buy a pair of running shoes and run like hell. (But I wanted to.....)

This went on for month. Katherine decided she didn't want to pay for alterations on her dress, we should do them to her for free because of the stress we caused her. The seamstress pulled out all of the pins of her dress and said "I do not work days and hours for free. I have kids to feed, Take it somewhere else. " Katherine was livid. I wanted to high five my seamstress. Her mom came in and paid.

A week before the wedding, Katherine showed up in tears. I thought the wedding was cancelled. No, it was the flower girls. They created chaos at her wedding shower. Katherine was sure they would ruin her wedding. The bridesmaids were all arguing and canceled her bachelorette party. Her mom, step mom and dad's girlfriend didn't buy their dresses a week before the wedding and weren't speaking to each other. She was sobbing. I gave her a big hug and I consoled her. At that moment, I really did feel sorry for her.

Photo from https://inspiringpretty.com

Katherine stopped in later on in the week, like the previous visit hadn't happened. She was her normal complaining, whiny, poor pitiful me self. She checked to make sure each pearl and bead on her dress was in place. Her maid of honor was two hours late to learn how to bustle her gown, it was already nearly an hour past closing. I was hungry, exhausted and ticked off. I'd been on my feet for 10 hours and hadn't had time to eat lunch and it was past supper time. Then she says "On Saturday, you need to be on call all night in case something happens to my dress. I expect you to show up and fix it. I found your home phone number and address online." OMG. Seriously??? Me:Speechless.

On Saturday night, if my husband had answered the phone, he'd be single. She didn't call.

Katherine was the bride who got under my skin, the one bridezilla I couldn't diffuse. She caused me sleepless nights, stomach pains and lots of tears. Nothing satisfied her or made her smile. How can someone always be so miserable?

Several months later, my husband and I were shopping in the mall and from out of nowhere, here comes Katherine with a group of people. "Here comes Rose, the sweet lady who made my wedding so awesome." I kept walking, I just couldn't.....

No One Is Going to Remember Your Wedding: Reasons You Should Jump Off the Trendy Wedding Train

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Mon, 01 Apr 2019 18:36:00 +0000

Photo from StyleLovely

Wedding trends, ugh. While they may look super hip and totally awesome, but some days I see the same thing wedding after wedding. If I fail to look impressed, it's because the weddings before you did the same thing. And probably the wedding after you will do the same.

"But I like it", you say. Do you like it because it's all over the wedding sites or because you've heard or seen the buzz? Do you feel like you need to do what's trendy or because your Instagram influencer says to?

It's time to do something that totally reflects the both of your lives.

No one is going to remember your wedding.

There, I said it. Weddings seem to hit all at once. Friends and family are getting married around the same time frame, so you are going to a lot of weddings. Your wedding is the same as the others. You are one of a group that is doing camo/burlap/outdoor/farm weddings. Everytime I see a burlap table runner with lace trim, I throw up a little in my mouth. It was cool the first hundred times I saw it, but now...just make it go away.

You want to stand out? Do something different that is YOU.
Be unique, be you!

Trends come and go, it may be passe by the time your wedding rolls around.

Guess what? Trends don't last!

Good taste never goes out of style. Take a tip from Coco Chanel.

Coco Chanel always said it best.

Photos from Who What Wear

Don't force a theme or use the same old same old theme.

If you can't think of a theme, don't force a theme on your wedding. Pick colors you both love, pick things that mean something to you both, presto, that's your original theme.

Weddings used to be much simpler, they weren't themes as such, there was individuality.

Instead of doing what everyone is doing, bring back a family tradition to make your wedding memorable.

Every family has their own traditions, handed down through generations. My Italian family has several. Couples line up around the hall with their hands joined up in the air. The wedding couple runs through the human archway. They lower their arms and lock the couple in and make them kiss. I always hated it and thought it was stupid and old fashioned...but at my wedding my friends loved it and thought it was so much fun. Another family tradition is doing an Italian dance, the Tarantella, followed by a rousing polka. All of my super cool friends joined in. Houda thot?

And the cookies..the entire extended family bakes cookies and the cookie table at the reception is massive. The wedding is judged by the cookies. When someone is talking about a wedding, one of my relatives is bound to ask "How were the cookies?". And for some reason every wedding has to have the DJ play 'Proud Mary' by TIna Turner. I think the wedding isn't legal until the song plays. And everyone dances all night. Years later, (I'm still married), people still tell me it was the best wedding they'd ever been to. Yay!

Listening to the experts tell you what trends you MUST follow is like me explaining string theory. shout out to Big Bang Theory

Everytime I look at the list of must do trends, I wonder who can actually afford to FOLLOW those trends. Most involve a lot of cash that most couples can't afford. Notice the person talking about the trends are the ones who cater to celebrities and the very wealthy. Don't go in debt to follow any trend. Become the trendsetter!

Be unique, be you!!

Crushing on Wedding Accessories and Other Goodies, Calorie and Carb Free, Fri-Yay's Edition

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Fri, 29 Mar 2019 18:23:00 +0000

I'm crushing on these low cal and no carb wedding accessories on Fri-YAY!!
Everything I've chosen this week is custom, affordable and items you won't find in your local stores. Its all part of my 'Be unique, be you' movement.

Beautiful floral clutch by CheriDemeter on Etsy. Perfect for the bride on her wedding day and for many times after. I'm loving this with a white wedding gown and pink bouquet, pink shoes and blush maids.

White lace hand beaded fascinator hat with birdcage veil for the bride or worn as a church hat. Reembroidered lace.

Pink Fascinator with Face Veil

Created by Weddingzilla, yours truly.

Custom Wedding Garter does exactly what the name says. The designer will craft you a couture wedding garter and you make the choices of color, style, fabric, etc. Hundreds of color choices.

Is this lace wedding dress By Renz Rags the most romantic you've ever seen? Wait until you see the back, its totally swoon worthy.

Stunning pink wedding dress by Weekend Wedding Dress, so unique and in color! Love, Love! Sexy and sweet.

Wedding shoes from ABiddaBling. Not only are they gorgeous, they bling and they are as sexy as h***. After the wedding, have them dyed black and wear them with your little black dress. Sizzling!

Or how about blush pink?

How to Get Married In Las Vegas : An Insiders Kick Ass Guide to Have the Best, Easiest, and Amazing Wedding Day

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Thu, 28 Mar 2019 18:45:00 +0000

Las Vegas, the wedding capital of the world, where you can get married in a 5 star resort or in your car. Endless choices, prices for every budget and it's easier than you think! But before you head on out to Vegas to get married, there are things you need to know. Your insider, (me), will help you avoid any situations that will cause stress, delay or derail your special day. And then, party time!

Let go of all the preconceived notions you have about Las Vegas weddings and let go of the movie fallacies of eloping to Vegas. I've been in the industry my entire life, I've worked in the wedding chapels and I've seen what goes on behind the scenes. Here's insider information to help you make your best, easiest and stress free Las Vegas wedding.

Mandarin Oriental Wedding by Scheme Events

You can go opulent or you can go theme:

Zombie Wedding Viva Las Vegas Wedding Chapel

Or you can go Victorian:

Victorian Chapel at the Chapel of the Flowers

Some quick facts you need to know (based on questions I've answered hundreds of times) :

LGBT weddings are legal in Las Vegas and are treated exactly like any other wedding with the same requirements.
Every wedding needs a marriage license BEFORE the ceremony or you'll be turned away.
You can have a religious ceremony or a civil ceremony in any of the venues.
You can arrange to have the ceremony with an officiant who speaks your language. This has to be planned in advance as finding that officiant who is available can be difficult. Prepare to pay additional for the service.
Your marriage is legal regardless of where you live. Some countries will require you to get an Apostile to certify your documents. It is an additional cost as it has to go through legal channels. Your wedding planner will give you all the information you need based on the rules and regulations of your country.
Temper your expectations to your budget.
Weddings are less expensive during the week and in the mornings.
Expect to pay more if you are getting married on a date such as 9/9/19 or 9/19/19, a weekend or busy holiday. Why? Because those dates are in demand and fill up fast. The demand is there, you can change your date or pay a bit more.
There is such a thing as a sign and go wedding that is legal. In front of a licensed officiant, you say "I do" and sign the marriage license. There is no chapel, no music, no flowers, no photos, just a pen and an officiant.
If you show up drunk or high, expect the officiant to refuse to marry you. Wedding chapels don't consider marriage a joke, rather as one chapel owner told me " the sanctity of marriage should be preserved and honored as a lifetime commitment of love, honesty and beauty".
You cannot marry a relative.

What kind of wedding do you BOTH want?

Elvis is leaving the building, Little White Chapel with Jesse Garon as Elvis

Do you want a romantic wedding?
Do you want a theme wedding?
Do you want an Elvis wedding?
Do you want a traditional wedding?
Do you want an outdoor wedding?
Do you want an opulent wedding?
Do you want a "celebrity" wedding?
Do you want a goth wedding?
Do you want a Victorian wedding?
Do you want an elaborate country club wedding?
Do you want to get married in a 5 star hotel chapel?

If you can dream it, there is a venue in Las Vegas will host it.

Interview your chapel.

Wedding chapels are all different and unique. Some are breathtaking, some are on the kitchy side, some are just horrible. Ask questions, find out what is included in the package and what else you may need. Costs will vary greatly. If the cost is too good to be true, it is and it's probably in a sketchy part of downtown or very rundown inside.

Look at reviews of the chapel from several review sites. Some chapels have bogus photos on their sites that glorify their chapels. Read the reviews and choose wisely.

Chapel of the Flowers is one of the most gorgeous and elegant group of chapels and is consistently voted #1. There are 5 chapels on the property, all unique, all elegant and classy, and you'll get 10 star service.

Make a reservation at your chapel.

It is a myth that you can just drive or fly into town and get married. It’s done in the movies, but if you don’t make a reservation, you risk not getting married at the chapel of your choice. Some days, like Valentine’s Day, are booked way in advance and your chances of getting in are slim to none. Also, the major hotel chapels and major wedding chapels aren’t open 24 hours.

You’ll have a choice of wedding packages offering a menu of items. Most chapels don’t change the packages, but do have a la carte offerings. All packages have items you can add on like larger bouquets, upgraded flowers, upgrades to your photo package, corsages for the moms, etc.

You can have a religious or civil ceremony.

Questions you need to ask before booking your wedding chapel:

In which chapel will my ceremony be held? Many venues have different chapels on their property with varying prices depending on the chapel you choose or size of your wedding party and guests
How many guests will the chapel hold? Occupancy is strictly enforced by the fire department. On person over the occupancy rate and they won't get in. Period. Case closed. Safety in the city is paramount and enforced
How long do we have the chapel? Since chapels book one wedding after the other, when the ceremony is over, you vacate the chapel.
Are we allowed to decorate the chapel ourselves or must we use your flowers?
Am I limited to a number of guests? It will depend on the chapel you've booked. Some chapels will charge extra per person after a certain number. I've never understood this and never will.
What is included in my package? Flowers? Photography? How many photos will we receive? Will they be digital or prints. Do we get the copyright with our photos?
Will the flowers in the package be real or silk?
Do I get to keep the flowers after the ceremony? Can we bring our own flowers?
Can we write our own vows? Are we limited to the amount of words we can say?
How long is the ceremony? Average ceremony is less than 15 minutes, most around 10 minutes. The ceremonies I've witnessed have all been very meaningful and touching. (and I've witnessed hundreds of weddings).
If we don’t have witnesses, will you provide them for us? Can you provide them for free?
Can we take pictures during the ceremony? Expect the answer to be no. Many venues are changing to unplugged ceremonies meaning no photos, no phones, put them away and pay attention to the solemnity of the wedding. Besides, your guests with their cell phones get in the way of your professional photographer. Do you really want photos with cell phones up in the air and guests in the aisle. Can I hear a big NO!
Can we take pictures on the property before or after the ceremony?
Do we have to use your photographer?
Will the ceremony be live streamed?
Can we get a DVD of the ceremony? What is the cost?
How are the pictures priced?
What is not included in my price? Any surprises?

How to Get Your Marriage License: You need a Nevada marriage license.

You both to appear in person at the Clark County Courthouse located at 201 E. Clark Avenue Las Vegas, NV 89101. You can also pre register online, but you both still have to appear in person with your photo ID, like a drivers license, state ID, passport, military ID or foreign issued ID with birthday and photo. You need $77 cash or major credit card. They don’t accept any form of checks, including travelers checks.

To pre register online : http://www.clarkcountynv.gov/clerk/Pages/PreApp.aspx
If you are divorced, all you need is the date and location of your divorce. You don’t need any additional paperwork.
The marriage license bureau is open from 8am to midnight every day.
Nevada recognizes same sex marriage, same rules apply.
You must be 18 years of age unless you have parental consent. Parents must come in person or have a written notarized statement giving permission.

You can't get a marriage license in your home state and use it in Nevada. You need a Nevada marriage license.

Get me to the church on time....

Make arrangements for transportation to the chapel if you aren’t getting married in your hotel chapel. Some chapels offer limousine service. Make sure to confirm your arrangements and pick up times and whether they will drop you off at your hotel or restaurant. If you choose to Uber or Lyft, make sure you leave in enough time to get through the traffic. If Google maps says 10 minutes, add another 20 minutes for traffic. You don’t want to be late, chapels run on a set schedule and if you are late, you miss your time.

Plan to dress in your hotel room.

If you are getting married at a free standing wedding chapel, you will have to dress in your hotel. Some say they have a dressing room, but it could be a supply closet. If you are getting married in a hotel chapel, they will have a glamorous room for you to dress. Check with your chapel before the wedding so that there are no misunderstandings.

Tips, tips and more tips!

And I'm talking about gratuities.

Your officiants fee is not included in any wedding packages as they are not employees of the wedding chapel. The fee varies from chapel to chapel and is given in CASH after the ceremony to the officiant. Some chapels suggest from $40 and up and others have a flat fee of $75 to $85 or more.

Most places suggest you tip your photographer. $30 or more is usually suggested.

You also need to tip your limousine driver. $40 and up is usually suggested. Why? Because some chapels make the drivers pay for their own gasoline. Your limo ride is usually included in some of the chapels better wedding packages, if you don’t tip, it comes out of your drivers pocket.

Check with your chapel for the suggested gratuities.

Las Vegas runs on tips and customer service. It helps to keep some small bills like $1 and $5 for miscellaneous tips for great service.

Make a reception or dinner plan for your guests.

If you have friends and relatives joining you in Las Vegas for the wedding, have a plan for a dinner or dinner reception. There are a lot of great restaurants that have small private rooms for receptions. Make reservations to avoid disappointment or standing in line for hours. If people make the effort to get to your destination wedding from out of town, the least you can do is feed them.

Some chapels have a business agreement with some great restaurants to host receptions with as little as 2 people. And these are some of the top restaurants in town! They are not going to send you to some greasy spoon.

The key to an amazing stress free Las Vegas wedding is to be prepared and PLAN AHEAD. The more you are organized, with your marriage license in hand, dressed and ready to go on time, you'll be the happiest couple in town. The bonus, you are ready to get out and celebrate in the greatest celebration city in the world. Honeymoon time!

If you have questions, ask me in the comment section.
Happy wedding! I want you to have the most amazing wedding!

Seven Things Only A Bride Will Understand About Wedding Planning

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Tue, 26 Mar 2019 18:07:00 +0000

7 Things only a bride will understand about wedding planning and how to enjoy the planning process.

Does wedding planning have you,the bride, in a tailspin?

Is the stress turning you into a crazed screaming lunatic?

Do you wish you had just eloped?

Wedding Planning is a tremendous amount work.

Wedding planning takes hours out of your day.

Wedding planning requires organization.

Wedding planning causes disagreements and arguments.

Weddings cost more than you've budgeted.

Wedding planning involves a lot of decisions

Wedding planning involves a lot of compromise.

Yes, planning a wedding is a huge amount of work. Realsimple.com has the ultimate wedding planning checklist to keep you organized. Keep notes from each phone call, whom you spoke to in your wedding folders or binder. Organized brides can also keep a card catalog on index cards for easy reference.

Best wedding planning book on the market!

Yes, planing can take hours out of your day if you are disorganized. GET ORGANIZED TO SAVE TIME! Don't procrastinate, just get 'er done.

Cut out tasks that are unnecessary or seem silly. Why waste weeks making a seating chart at the reception? Most adults can figure out where they want to sit. Reserve enough tables near the head table for your and his immediate family, grandparents, aunts and uncles etc. What if you cave and make a seating chart and you learn some of the people you've seated together stop speaking to each other? It happens all the time! Save stress and time, just don't do it.

Work within your budget. You'll save so much stress and worry about money if you decide to cut money sucking items like a full bar for the entire reception. How about putting a few bottles of wine on each table instead?

Or host a buffet instead of a 5 course sit down dinner, You and your maids can DIY centerpieces or use pots of seasonal plants with pretty pot covers instead of expensive floral centerpieces. You can cut your guest list, buy your wedding gown from the sale rack, there are so many ways to cut expenses and have a fabulous and fun wedding.

Planning involves a lot of decision making. Just make a decision, a bad decision is better than no decision. (That's my personal mantra. As an independent businesswoman, I've had to learn to make decisions on a dime.)

Brides who can't decide on anything paralyze themselves. Agonizing over things that just don't matter drive you and everyone around you crazy. Your fiance is involved, make joint decisions and don't second guess it.

MAKE A DECISION GO ON TO THE NEXT DECISION * DON'T LOOK BACK * DON'T SECOND GUESS YOURSELF*

Arguments, disagreements and compromise. If your parents are involved helping to pay for wedding, there are bound to be disagreements. You and your fiance may argue. The key is COMPROMISE and COMMUNICATION.

Sit down and talk about it. Listen to their reasons. Communicate without screaming, yelling and crying.

Take one or two days a week to step away from wedding planning and wedding talk. Just chill and have fun with your fiance. No one around you wants to hear about your wedding in every conversation you have with them. While your wedding is important to you, its not the focus of the lives of your bridesmaids and friends. In the end, its not the wedding, its the marriage.

The wedding is one day out of your life, the marriage is your life.

Jump for Joy with a Wedding Bouncy Castle

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Mon, 25 Mar 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Stop! Don't order that photobooth for your wedding reception until you hear about bouncy castles. Yes, bouncy castles. It started in England,of course, famous for castles where the queen and her family reside. In the UK, you can rent white bouncy castles decked out in wedding flowers and finery.

Can you imagine the photos the photographer might capture? Let's all have fun and jump for joy!

Right now, if you want to have bouncy castle fun, you'll need to get married in the UK. Why don't we have bouncy castles here for wedding receptions in the USA?

I'd rent one, all the guests who don't want to dance would have a blast. Soooo much fun for all ages!

Would you rent a bouncy castle for your wedding?

Accept, Love, Embrace Your Difference and Be Fabulous!

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Fri, 22 Mar 2019 14:00:00 +0000

I came across this article from Hips and Curves and I though I'd pass it on to all of you. Accept yourself, love yourself and embrace your differences. They say it so much better than I can, so read on gorgeous ladies and celebrate your fabulousness! Never forget how stunning you are!

Crushing on these Wedding Accessories and Goodies, Thursday edition!

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Thu, 21 Mar 2019 21:25:00 +0000

These finagree earrings look sooooo expensive but they aren't! Just click on the photo to check them out. After the wedding, you can wear them everyday! And you are saving a ton of $$$!

It's no secret how much I love color, bling and glitz. Check out these garters from Custom Wedding Garter. Your garters are available in more colors than you can imagine, pick a color, then delve into the shades. And the bling, yes, please! Each one made to order with you designing your garter.

Wedding Invitations that SCREAM spring and summer. I would love this for a print for my home, I love it soooooo much!! The vibe is Victorian or contermporary. Can we call it Victorian modern? Or Contemporary Victorian?

And the matching save the date card...so fresh, just blooming fun!

I live in Las Vegas and I see bachelors parties all the time. If you are having a bachelor party anywhere, you have to check out Bachelorette dot com. Everything from just plain fun to downright nasty, you'll find at this bachelorette party store. Its almost mandatory for the entire wedding party to wear sashes letting the world know its party time and I'm the bride, maid, etc. And I think their tagline is hysterical! Bachelorette.com - Getting brides in trouble since 1999.

Bridal Sash and Veil by Kuuly's on Etsy. This pic is so realistic! How many hours until you take off your shoes? Kuuly's on Etsy

Happy Spring! Flowers Bloom on Hats and Fascinators After a Long Winter

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Tue, 19 Mar 2019 22:51:00 +0000

FInally, its spring! We've all suffered through a long dreary winter. Yes, here in Las Vegas we have winter. We have huge wind gusts that put a chill right through your bones and you have to fight not to get carried away to OZ. And yes, we had snow, enough snow to cancel school.

My puppy had never seen snow and he wanted nothing to do with it. My other dog had visions of me putting on her boots and snow coat and she was not happy. I guess we have all transistioned to desert living.

Valentines day was a rainy day, not just rain, but RAIN and cold and wind, which didn't make any of the weddings I was coordinating very much fun for the brides in their gorgeous gowns. Luckily, it didn't stop the weddings. Since rain on your wedding day is supposed to be good luck, everyone was happy.

Cold, windy, rainy Valentines Day in Las Vegas
Little White Chapel, Photo from Vogue magazine online.

So, its time to not only think spring, but embrace spring. So here are some blooming flowers on Kentucky Derby hats and fascinators for Easter, Derby fun and parties.

Want to see more? Just click on the caption below the photos, stop in and visit!

Vining Flowers Fascinator Hat

Feathers and Flowers

Handmade Flowers and Feathers Fascinator

Blue English Garden

Pretty In Pink and Gold

Butterflies and Flowers

Roses Polka Dots and Feathers

I do custom work on any wedding hats, fascinators, garters, hairpieces and wedding accessories. Contact me through my Etsy shop, Weddingzilla.

Time For Your Kentucky Derby Hat or Fascinator!

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Tue, 19 Mar 2019 21:44:00 +0000

Weddingzilla

Custom order or choose from stock, new items being listed daily.
Fascinator and fun Kentucky Derby hats for the Derby races, Kentucky Derby parties, high tea, tea parties, weddings, cocktail parties or just for fun!

Weddingzilla's Rose Gold Wedding Inspiration

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Tue, 05 Jun 2018 07:31:00 +0000

There is something about rose gold, it's warmth, it's glow, it's presence.
Rose gold sets the stage for an unforgettable wedding!

I've seen a lot of weddings, thousands in fact...and the one that stands out in my mind is the wedding I saw recently while working at a Las Vegas wedding chapel. The bride a rose gold sequin gown and married in a garden wedding. The gown was sequins in the baby sequin couture way, not the Las Vegas sequin show girl way. The sun gleamed off her gown and she literally glowed. She carried a bouquet of white roses with the stems wrapped in rose gold. Her hair was styled with a rose gold comb of crystals. She looked so beautiful among all the greenery and flowers in the garden. Since I was working, I wasn't able to find out where she got her dress. If I ever find that dress, I must have it and I'll save it for my 50th wedding anniversary. Side note, not even close!

There are many shades of rose gold in fabrics and so many ways you can style it. You can use rose gold as an accent color. You can go full blast and go full shimmer. Or you can go soft pink pastels and rose gold accents. So many choices! Your only limit is your imagination!

It all starts with an engagement ring.....by Diamonds Mine

Rose Gold wedding bracelet by The Exquisite Bride

Rose Gold wedding or bridesmaid dress by RenzRags

Rose Gold maid's dress by Dessy Collection

Hairpiece by MyLittleCraftyCorner

Rose Gold metal flaked wedding veil by CleoandClementine

Rose Gold Chandalier Earrings by ContessaGarters

Rose gold toasting flutes and wedding cake servers by DiAmoreDS

Rose Gold wedding cake photo by Kristen Weaver Photography

Wedding invitation by JustInviteMe

Mind blowing gorgeous jaw dropping dream wedding done in rose gold,

invitations by

Ceci New York

Photo: Jennifer Weems Photography

By Royal Wedding

Looking for wedding accessories or bespoke accessories from garters to hairpieces and everything in between? Visit Weddingzilla on Etsy. There is always something new, unique, trendy and they aren't your mother's wedding accessories.

The Bride Wore Blush!

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Sat, 02 Jun 2018 20:00:00 +0000

Blush Chuppah

Remember the beautiful blushing bride? No need to blush at your wedding, you can wear blush! Everyone looks fabulous in this color, including red heads. Regardless of your skin color, you'll glow. If you need color in your face, don't glob on layers of makeup, wear blush!

Sparkly Mermaid Wedding Gown by BoomBlush on Etsy

Sexy low back mermaid wedding gown by LovetheBride on Etsy.

Blush pink wedding gown by FashionBrideStudio on Etsy.

Another stunning sexy blush pink gown by FashionBrideStudio on Etsy.

Source: First and Second from Ruffled Blog | Third from Jose Villa Blog via www.onecharmingday.com

Fabulous Blush Wedding Accessories!

Bling cage veil in blush by Annnottinghambridal

Blush floral crown by SerafinaLauren

Blush Pink wedding garter by Weddingzilla

Blush Pink wedding bracelet by Weddingzilla

What Colors Go With Blush?

Blush can be considered a neutral. Want super formal? Blush with black. Soft pale colors?
Blush with soft pinks with accents of white and ivory. Bold? Blush with teal and navy.
Let your imagination run wild.

If you are worried if your colors won't look good together, go to a paint store and get paint swatches. You can use them to see if your color scheme works well together. Disclaimer: Don't try and exactly match the colors in a bridal salon because it won't be exact. Paint shades come in thousands of colors, use as a guide only. Happy planning!

Soft pinks

Provided by MagnetStreet

Bronze and golds

Provided by MagnetStreet

Chanpagne and taupes

Provided by MagnetStreet

Greens and blues

Provided by MagnetStreet

Bold Pinks

Provided by MagnetStreet

Navy

Provided by MagnetStreet

Bold Teals

Provided by MagnetStreet

Something Blue For Weddings

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Sat, 02 Jun 2018 04:12:00 +0000

Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue is the old saying that a bride should have on their wedding day. When I got married my old was a necklace, my new was my dress, shoes, lingerie, my borrowed was my mothers wedding earrings and my something blue was my garter. Today, your something blue can be anything from a crystal blue earring to a blue wedding gown!

Not Your Mother's Wedding Accessories!

Stunning, the base of the cake looks like chiffon flowers!

Metallic wedding cake by 2tarts Bakery

Flowers by Alexis Grace Designs

Summer wedding flowers by Mondo Floral Designs

Both arrangements by The Rose Shed

From Dessy.com: LOVE LOVE LOVE this soft flowing chiffon maids gown.

Scroll wedding invitations by ArtfulBeginnings on Etsy

Glitter Champagne Flutes and cake server set by

SerendipityScentsCom

Boho wedding dress on Etsy by larimeloom

Are You A Bridezilla? Take the Bridezilla Test...The original official test!

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Sat, 05 Apr 2014 18:49:00 +0000

After listening to Bridezilla horror stories, take the test

and see if you are deserve the dubious honor.

And in the upcoming posts, I'll share my stories.

How to tell if you are a Bridezilla..take the Bridezilla test!

* Is the wedding all about me?

* Do I feel entitled to special treatment from everyone because I'm getting married?

* Do I obsess about every detail of the wedding and have trouble making decisions? Am I changing my
mind and second guessing every decision I've make?

* Do I talk about my wedding 24/7?

* Do I spend hours online chatting and comparing notes with other brides?

* Are my friends avoiding me because "its all about me"?

* Is my fiancé sick of hearing about the wedding?

* Are I focusing on the wedding instead of the marriage?

* Am I having temper tantrums and anxiety attacks?

* Do I expect perfectionism in every aspect of my wedding?

* Do I expect a huge shower, a bachelorette party, etc?

* Am I in the "gimme gimme I want good gifts" mode?

* Do I spend hours looking at my online wedding registry to see what's been purchased?

* Am I lashing out at my mother, fiancé, bridesmaids and friends?

* Can I do two hours on my wedding hairdo and makeup until my friends want to scream?

* Am I bossing around the wedding party? The staff at the bridal salon? The reception coordinator?

* Do I demand to have everything my own way?

* Am I dictating hair styles, mani and pedi's and the same makeup for my maids?

* Am I complaining about my bridesmaids to everyone who will listen?

* Has any member of the wedding party stepped down due to my behavior?

* Am I telling my fiancé that all the groomsmen MUST have a fresh shave and a haircut?

* Do you insist your wedding has to be better than a cousin, a friend's etc?

* Is your fiancé making comments about and taking criticism about your behavior?

* Are you arguing with everyone from your fiancé to your parents to your bridesmaids?

Scoring:

If you answer yes to 5 or less questions: You aren't a Bridezilla.

Some wedding anxiety is normal. You need to step back and relax with your fiancé.

Take a few days off from wedding planning. Take a deep breath, it will all work out fine.

Nothing is perfect and no one will be the wiser if something goes wrong.

If you answer yes to 6 to 10 questions...you are on your way to becoming a Bridezilla.

Its time to reevaluate this wedding and marriage. Are you in love with your fiancé or in love with the
idea of getting married?

Time to get a grip and get a clue and relax a bit. Its a wedding, its about the two of you. The rest is just a
party.

If you answer yes to 11 or more questions, you are a full blown Bridezilla.

Time for a major attitude adjustment and its time to make amends to everyone you've alienated during
the planning process.

Do you really want to get married? What is making you so unhappy?

Work on what's really bothering you and the rest will fall into place.

No one wants to be Bridezilla and no one wants to be around a Bridezilla.

Someone is liable to tell your fiancé what you are all about in Bridezilla mode, buy him a pair of track
shoes and tell him to run!

Don't let it happen to you, take a deep breath and re access your priorities.

What is normal wedding behavior?

* To be excited and focused on the wedding and marriage.

* To have dreams of wedding disasters like walking down the aisle in the wrong dress, or walking
down the aisle naked or that no guests show up.

* To include your friends and family in the fun and planning. While your friends are part of the
celebration, your wedding not the focus of THEIR life.

* To think about your wedding 24/7, just don't talk about it 24/7.

* To have fleeting moments of second guessing and indecision. I always tell my customers, a bad
decision is better than no decision.

* To occasionally compare notes online with other brides and check your online registry. When this
becomes an obsession, it signals trouble.

* To practice different makeup and hair styles, but when you have to try each one with your wedding
dress, its becoming a problem.

* To realize that the wedding is about you and your husband starting a life together. The reception is
just a big party!

* To want things perfect, but have the common sense to know that nothing is perfect.

Feel free to share you Bridezilla stories and I may even share some of the more unique ones here.

The Bridezilla test is copyright 2007-2009-14 by www.beachbride2be.com and Weddingzilla.
Feel free to link to this site to share it with your friends.

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Mon, 10 Mar 2014 03:07:00 +0000

' 07 Spring Mission' by EtsyShopSecrets

Here are headpieces for any type of wedding, from floral crowns to roaring 20's to down right funky.

Center pic on the first row is by Erica Elizabeth, one of my fave headpiece designers.

When I had my bridal shop, I carried her line Erica Koesler. Her designs are not only gorgeous, romantic and elegant, but the quality is far above any price you will pay.

Check her out on Etsy by clicking on the picture.

Treasury tool by StylishHome.

Spring Fever! Wedding Accessories That Scream Spring

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Sun, 16 Feb 2014 20:39:00 +0000

I don't know about you, but this miserable winter has me daydreaming of spring. I've got a major case of spring fever and spring can't get here fast enough for me! I look out of my window at a mountain of snow where there should be grass and I can't help but wonder....will we ever see grass and flowers this year? Will my feet ever warm up? Will my utility bills ever go under the national debt ceiling? Will my poor dog ever find a place to potty?

Annie says "Why are you making me wear this stupid hoodie?"

I have become obsessed with flowers and cruising Pinterest for pics of wedding flowers.

Inspired, I've created these:

Purple Lavender and Kiwi garter set by Weddingzilla

Wedding ring bearer pillow, hand dyed laces, ribbons and hand made flowers, OOAK!

Hand dyed laces, ribbons and spring flower garter set.

Tiffany Blue Still Rocks For Weddings!

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Sat, 08 Feb 2014 22:24:00 +0000

Tiffany Blue Still Rocks As A Wedding Color Fave!

Its time to revisit Tiffany Blue for weddings since its popularity continues, so here's some ideas for 2014. Tiffany blue is a robin egg blue, with tones of turquoise and aqua.

Brief history: Tiffany blue is the trademark color of Tiffany &Co, a luxury jewelry and goods store. They first used the color on their "Blue Book" , their catalog. It is used in all their sweet boxes, bags, etc. A visit to Tiffany's will take your breath away, the flawless diamonds, the sparkles, the jewels!

In 1961, a comedy movie "Breakfast at Tiffany's" came out starring Audrey Hepburn.

Singer Toni Braxton used a variant of the color for her wedding

and it became wildly popular.

Shades of Tiffany blue by Color Lovers

Tiffany blue spans a lot of shades of blue, from almost a turquoise to aqua.

From Pegeen.com, a complete wedding pic. Pegeen makes the most luxurious and adorable flower girl dresses and wedding attire for the smaller members of your wedding party.

This flower girl dress is as adorable as your flower girl! by Pegeen

Customize her dresses to suit your wedding style.

Aren't these two just precious? Dresses by

Olivia Kate Couture

ALL Maid dresses by Angelina Faccenda for Mori Lee.

I am in LOVE with the dress below, shown both long and short.

Angelesque Stilettos What I wouldn't give to be able
to walk in these shoes!

Hand painted and adorned with crystals wedding shoes by Norakaren,
each pair an original designed in connection with Nora.

M &M Events Chicago
SWEET!

Caribbean weddings by Weddings Romantique, Oh! So romantic!

I love the coral and oranges with Tiffany blue
by Two Sisters Catering.

Mexican beach wedding from Ruffled blog

The feathers on the chairs catch your eye, but look closer

at the ruffled table cloth. Total LOVE!

OMG! Stunning! By Doughmesstic

Doesn't this remind you of elegant old fashioned hat boxes?
Love it! Womansvibe

Ruffled ombre wedding cake by
Lolo's Cakes and Sweets

Brooch bouquet by Angelicas Bridal on Etsy

Tiffany blue brooch bouquet by Sol Bijou

Beach wedding LOVE!! Seashells and Tiffany blue
by BoHo Bridal on Etsy

Flowers by Stone Blossom

Succulent Flowers by Love Me Sailor

Succulent boutineres! From Ruffled Blog.
Photos by LoveMeSailor

Wedding invitation by Wedding Paper Divas.

Sleek Sophisticate by Wedding Paper Divas personalized with your pictures!

Enchanted Ending by Wedding Paper DIvas....
How much do I love this invitation? Let me count the ways!

We do!!!! I love this for its simplicity and to the point...we do!

Modern Toile, the opportunity to mix Tiffany blue and toile for
an uber elegant mix!

Shared hearts, how sweet! By Wedding Paper Divas.

These nails are so yummy!! Learn how to DIY here.

DROOL!! From Weddbook.com

Elegant and fun dangles from The Fab Wedding 2 on Etsy.

OMG statement necklace by Brass Boheme. I can just picture this
with a strapless gown!

Bracelet bling by Be Yourself Jewelry on Etsy.

Pick from an array of special hangers for your wedding
dress from Get Hung Up on Etsy.

Tiffany blue flower fascinator with ostrich feathers.

Hair flower or brooch by Misunbridal

Tiffany blue headband floral crown.....LOVE!!!
by Arsi Art

Stunning fairy tale wedding garter by
Linda Joyce Couture on Etsy.

Marie Antoinette garter by Linda Joyce Couture

Wedding Sash by Mystical Flowers on Etsy.

Tiffany blue garters by me....Weddingzilla.

Shades of Tiffany blue and turquoise wedding garter set
by Weddingzilla

Pantone Color of 2014, Radiant Orchid Wedding Idea Board

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Sun, 12 Jan 2014 19:36:00 +0000

Pantone's color of the year is radiant orchid.

10 Reasons why you should use radiant orchid as your wedding color.

Weddingzilla loves radiant orchid!

Bridesmaid dress by Dessy

Fabric bouquet by Weddingzilla

Hand painted shoes by Norakaren on Etsy

Invitations by Wedding Paper Divas

Eyeshadow Plum Valley Notions

Reception photo by Evin Photography

Multicolor bouquet Rowell Photography

My radiant orchid garter

Queen Elizabeth rocks radiant orchid! :)

10 Reasons To Choose Radiant Orchid For Your Wedding Color

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Fri, 03 Jan 2014 19:35:00 +0000

Unless you have had your head in a cloud, you have probably heard that Pantone Color Institute has named Radiant Orchid as the color of the year. r If you just got engaged and your head is in a cloud, you deserve a pass on it.

Pantone says: "Radiant Radiant Orchid blooms with confidence and magical warmth that intrigues the eye and sparks the imagination. It is an expressive, creative and embracing purple—one that draws you in with its beguiling charm. A captivating harmony of fuchsia, purple and pink undertones, Radiant Orchid emanates great joy, love and health."

Here are my 10 reasons why you should pick radiant orchid as your wedding color:

Everyone, including red heads, look spectacular in this color. Regardless of hair color or complexion, your maids will look gorgeous.

This color is easy to accessorize. For flowers, choose any shade of pinks, purples, blues, yellows, greens, avoid orange. Want to make a real statement? Use red as your accent.

This color looks killer with gray or black tuxedos.

Moms will have an easy time blending their gowns with this color.

Your photos will have that punch of color that takes them from ordinary to extraordinary.

This color will work any time of the year: A summer garden wedding, formal winter wedding, a spring brunch wedding, a fall beach front wedding. In a cathedral or outdoors, this color does the job.

Shoes will be easy to coordinate as this color will be on department store racks, when in doubt, choose a soft gray.

This color works well with with most wedding themes.

This color can easily have a tropical feel by using orchids in your bouquets and lots of greenery.

Guys really like this color!

Wedding Freebies and Other Goodies for Brides

noreply@blogger.com (Weddingzilla) — Thu, 02 Jan 2014 22:05:00 +0000

Its that time of year again when wedding companies offer brides discounts and freebies. Here are some goodies to save you $$$ on your wedding.

Find fun things for your bachelorette party .....tell your bridesmaids!

Free Gift with a $50 Bachelorette.com Order

Need help figuring out your wedding hairstyle? Never fear, help is near.
View Yourself in Over 6,000 Hairstyles!

Why pay for a wedding website when you can get one free!
Free Wedding Website from Wedding Paper Divas.

Take your digital prints and print them for free.
Enjoy 50 Free Prints from Shutterfly. Join Now.

Wedding Paper Divas without a doubt have some of the finest wedding stationery in the market, current styles and colors, quality and great prices. Sample their products for free!
Eight Wedding Paper Divas Stationery Samples Absolutely Free

You can change the colors of the flowers!

Romance

Are you a trendsetter?

Contemporary and classy!

Personalize with your own photos.

Beach or destination wedding!

Here's 20% off, hurry, the coupon won't last forever!

Wedding Paper Divas New Year's Sitewide Sale - 20% OFF All Orders

Weddingzilla

Are you ready for marriage? Can you adult? Take the test.

1.Can you cook? Name 5 dishes you can make from scratch.

7 Wedding Expectations versus 7 Jolts of Reality

Are your wedding expections set too high? Do you think you have every angle covered so nothing can go wrong? Think again.

Will You Include Your Dog In Your Wedding Party?

Will You Include Your Dog In Your Wedding Party?

If you are a dog person, like me, someone probably has jokingly mentioned having your dog in the wedding. If you and your fiancé are serious dog parents, the thought may have crossed your mind. Or are you one of those people who just cannot fathom getting married without their best friend present?

Another couple had their daughter, the flower girl, pull their dog down the aisle in a flower draped wagon. It was adorable watching her little face as she concentrated on her job. The dog sat still the entire time.

The dog was well behaved. I don't know if he signed the marriage certificate as the best man. I only wish I could find the pictures to show you.

Will your pet behave? Will your pet be scared by all the people, commotion, festivities? Will your pet bark, run amok or, God forbid, potty during the wedding? Will you have a pet wrangler to care for your pet during the wedding or if the dog misbehaves or is scared?

And Rocco? He'd do puppy eyes, smile, wag his tail at everyone, shake hands, high five and maybe do his Elvis lip. I can't imagine not having them at our wedding. Spoiler: I'm married. Maybe on an anniversary....

Don't Let Wedding Planning Torpedo Your Relationship

Are you and your fiance on the same page as to the kind and style of wedding you want? photo from Lovemyweddingmag

You are different religions. Are you going to go with one religion over the other for the ceremony? Are your parents going to get into the discussion/ arguement? In what religion are you going to raise any future children?

The Nearly Naked Bride and Kick Ass Wedding Finds

Design and print your own wedding invitations.

Rent monogram lighting, up lights and more for your reception and its affordable

Are you looking for personalized wedding favors?

Bridezillas Are Real, Meet Katherine

FYI: I joined the family bridal salon as an embryo...almost. For 33 years I learned how to run and manage a business and how every bride is special. I am the Bridezilla Whisperer, except for Katherine.

No One Is Going to Remember Your Wedding: Reasons You Should Jump Off the Trendy Wedding Train

Crushing on Wedding Accessories and Other Goodies, Calorie and Carb Free, Fri-Yay's Edition

Custom Wedding Garter does exactly what the name says. The designer will craft you a couture wedding garter and you make the choices of color, style, fabric, etc. Hundreds of color choices.

How to Get Married In Las Vegas : An Insiders Kick Ass Guide to Have the Best, Easiest, and Amazing Wedding Day

Some quick facts you need to know (based on questions I've answered hundreds of times) :

What kind of wedding do you BOTH want?

Interview your chapel.

Make a reservation at your chapel.

Questions you need to ask before booking your wedding chapel:

How to Get Your Marriage License: You need a Nevada marriage license.

Get me to the church on time....

Plan to dress in your hotel room.

Tips, tips and more tips!

Make a reception or dinner plan for your guests.

Seven Things Only A Bride Will Understand About Wedding Planning

7 Things only a bride will understand about wedding planning and how to enjoy the planning process.

Does wedding planning have you,the bride, in a tailspin? Is the stress turning you into a crazed screaming lunatic? Do you wish you had just eloped?

Jump for Joy with a Wedding Bouncy Castle

Accept, Love, Embrace Your Difference and Be Fabulous!

I came across this article from Hips and Curves and I though I'd pass it on to all of you. Accept yourself, love yourself and embrace your differences. They say it so much better than I can, so read on gorgeous ladies and celebrate your fabulousness! Never forget how stunning you are!

Crushing on these Wedding Accessories and Goodies, Thursday edition!

These finagree earrings look sooooo expensive but they aren't! Just click on the photo to check them out. After the wedding, you can wear them everyday! And you are saving a ton of $$$!

It's no secret how much I love color, bling and glitz. Check out these garters from Custom Wedding Garter. Your garters are available in more colors than you can imagine, pick a color, then delve into the shades. And the bling, yes, please! Each one made to order with you designing your garter.

Wedding Invitations that SCREAM spring and summer. I would love this for a print for my home, I love it soooooo much!! The vibe is Victorian or contermporary. Can we call it Victorian modern? Or Contemporary Victorian?

And the matching save the date card...so fresh, just blooming fun!

Bridal Sash and Veil by Kuuly's on Etsy. This pic is so realistic! How many hours until you take off your shoes? Kuuly's on Etsy

Happy Spring! Flowers Bloom on Hats and Fascinators After a Long Winter

Time For Your Kentucky Derby Hat or Fascinator!

Weddingzilla's Rose Gold Wedding Inspiration

The Bride Wore Blush!

Remember the beautiful blushing bride? No need to blush at your wedding, you can wear blush! Everyone looks fabulous in this color, including red heads. Regardless of your skin color, you'll glow. If you need color in your face, don't glob on layers of makeup, wear blush!

Fabulous Blush Wedding Accessories!

What Colors Go With Blush?

Something Blue For Weddings

Are You A Bridezilla? Take the Bridezilla Test...The original official test!

' 07 Spring Mission' by EtsyShopSecrets

Spring Fever! Wedding Accessories That Scream Spring

Tiffany Blue Still Rocks For Weddings!

Tiffany Blue Still Rocks As A Wedding Color Fave!

Pantone Color of 2014, Radiant Orchid Wedding Idea Board

10 Reasons To Choose Radiant Orchid For Your Wedding Color

Wedding Freebies and Other Goodies for Brides

Will your pet behave?

Will your pet be scared by all the people, commotion, festivities?

Will your pet bark, run amok or, God forbid, potty during the wedding?

Will you have a pet wrangler to care for your pet during the wedding or if the dog misbehaves or is scared?

Are you and your fiance on the same page as to the kind and style of wedding you want?

photo from Lovemyweddingmag

Does wedding planning have you,the bride, in a tailspin?

Is the stress turning you into a crazed screaming lunatic?

Do you wish you had just eloped?