Bride and Groom

Usually, the bride and the groom have separate tasks. For example, the bride makes sure her parents have a list of their guests, chooses the maid of honor and bridesmaids, set all the details for the bridesmaid’s luncheon and offer them thank-you gifts. In addition, she buys a present for the groom.

The groom has similar duties, including his parents list of guests, choosing the best man and groomsmen, thank-you gifts and the present for his future wife. He is also responsible for the officiant’s fee, and to take care of the out of town guests (hotel reservations, transport, if necessary).

All these efforts by the bride and the groom may result in some tiresome moments, so a little bit of help is always welcomed.

Bride’s and groom’s parents

The parents, as in many other life circumstances, should be ready for moral support and secondly for financial help, as in today’s tradition the costs as evenly distributed among the parent’s and the couple.

The bride’s parents duties:

–   Hosting the engagement party;

–   May contribute to some expenses;

– The mother chooses her clothes and then informs the groom’s mother so they can complement each other;

–   The bride’s father is always ready for any wedding duties, escorts the bride on the aisle, he is ready for the Father- Daughter Dance, and traditionally he is the last to leave the reception. He also may prepare a special toast.

The groom’s parents duties:

–   Hosting the rehearsal party and may organize a second engagement party;

–   May also contribute to some expenses;

–   They consult with the bride’s parents regarding the formal wear.

Maid of Honor

She is one of the most important persons in a wedding. Everybody relies on her abilities to solve things, to organize activities, to respond quickly to all the problems. Customarily, she is the bride’s sister or best friend.

–   Before the wedding, she is in charge with the bridesmaids and their activities (bachelorette party, dresses, etc.), and she is also ready to help in any tasks of the bride and groom.

–   On the wedding day, the maid of honor will help the bride dress and prepare, will stand as a witness when signing the marriage license, will take care of the veil and dress to look perfectly, and keep the bouquet at the altar. She will bring the groom’s ring. She is also in charge of organizing the bridesmaids for the photo sessions. She’ll finally help the bride to change, at the end of the wedding, and will take care of her dress and bouquet until the couple comes back from the honeymoon.

–   She will pay for her attire and other costs generated by her role (accommodation, transport, etc.)

Bridesmaids

The bridesmaids can be of any age starting 16, single or married. A bride can choose as many bridesmaids as she wants however in most weddings you don’t see more than 12.

–   They assist the maid of honor and is ready to help the bride;

–   They may contribute to the bachelorette party costs;

–   Similar to the maid of honor, they will pay for their attire and other expenses generated by their roles (accommodation, transport, etc.)

Though they may seem easier to control and organize, non-traditional weddings are still quite rare and many prefer the tradition and ceremony of the big event. A traditional approach implies, in many circumstances, a structured wedding plan or, if you do not possess such skills or the time, a professional wedding organizer. This magical person and his/her team will basically let you enjoy the moment of your life without the nasty troubles and awful stress that may come throughout the planning.

However, even if you hire an organizer, our advice is to pinpoint certain details for your own benefit, thus letting the organizer know that you remain in full control of your own event.

The list below is not mandatory but is a good reference point, especially when your experience is limited. And, above all, it reflects some basic facts applicable to the majority of the successful traditional weddings.

Top 8 must haves of a traditional wedding

Before starting this, you should know any plan starts with a budget and we strongly recommend having one before you decide how much you want to spend on any specific item or service.

1. The proper outfit

• for the bride: a wedding gown, shoes, headpiece or veil, accessories, jewels, wedding ring, hair and make-up trial and hair and make-up final preparations, manicure and pedicure. Here you can find some inspiration for traditional wedding dresses
• for the groom: suit, tie, shoes, cufflinks, wedding ring
• for the bridesmaid: hair, make-up and dresses
• for the groomsmen: suits
• others: ring bearer and flower girl outfits

2. Venue

• for the ceremony (church): site and officiate fees, chair rental, confetti, ring bearer pillow, flower girl basket
• for the reception (restaurant): venue fee and decoration, table and chair rental, tableware and glassware rental, catering and beverages, wedding cake, toasting flutes

3. Music

• ceremony band, here are some of Martha Stewart classic wedding songs suggestions
• reception DJ

4. Photo and video

• wedding day photos
• album
• wedding day video

5. Stationery

• invitations
• menu cards
• table numbers
• thank you notes

6. Flowers

• bride’s bouquet
• bridesmaid posies
• groomsmen boutonnieres
• ceremony and reception

7. Gifts

• wedding favors
• for bridesmaids
• for the groomsmen

8. Honeymoon

• hotel and transport rental

Buzfeed suggests some very interesting and useful tips, We would also like to share with you our top 10 recommendations for a bride to stay beautiful and natural:

1. have a hairspray: you never know how your hair will look like after a few hours; a little extra hairdressing is always welcomed;
2. have some hairpins, in case you have long hair;
3. have some fresh wipes as sweat is something you cannot control; they are also very good when the mascara comes off and you can wipe it a little to refresh your eyes;
4. have some fashion tapes that will prevent your dress or bra from slipping;
5. have a nail file in handy: of course, a broken nail is not something to wish for, but it may happen to you or to any of your guests;
6. have some face powder to prevent your skin from shining as the skin grease and sweat are elements that will certainly hide your beauty and make-up;
7. have a lipstick to refresh your looks before taking some glamorous photos;
8. have dental floss with you; it may sound awkward, but believe me it can be a life saver when you have to smile and some food “gently” rests between your teeth;
9. if possible, have a veil that you can take off your head as soon as you can; in many cases, the veil becomes a burden during the event and it may ruin your hair;
10. have a needle, some pins and thread because you never know when your dress is caught in a chair or when someone steps on it and tear it.

Planning a wedding is not a simple matter, especially when we deal with a traditional event. We hope our tips and tricks help you through your next steps. Here you can also find a script for a traditional wedding and details about the roles of the bride and bridesmaids.

Have a beautiful wedding day and create a happy life!

#1: Off-the-Shoulder Necklines

This one is among the favorite trends for wedding dresses this season – ultra-feminine and classic. The idea is for the bride to come off as both playful and regal. The fact that the hottest neckline is considered timeless just adds to its appeal. For brides who love the idea of a little V-neck wedding dress, there’s a plethora of figure-flattering design options, including the illusion high neckline and cap sleeves as well as adding a slightly bohemian touch with fabric shoulder streamers.

Designers to look out for: Christos Costarellos, Victoria Kyriakides, Jenny Packham, Oscar de la Renta, Kelly Faetanini, and Carolina Herrera.

#2: Colors

No longer restricted to the traditional white, wedding dresses now embrace colors while owning up a sophisticated and pretty look. Seen on the runway were exciting shades of gray, gold, pink, blue, and even mint green. While they won’t one up the classic white, they nevertheless prove you don’t have to wear white to your wedding. Seriously, you have our verdict: totally romantic and fresh transformations. In fact, they can even be treated as a wedding centerpiece and dictate the color palette and style of your entire wedding!

If you crave a bridal dress that emphasizes your personality and is essentially unique, you’ll fall in love with the trend following these designers: Hayley Paige, Monique Lhuilier, Naeem Khan, Sarah Nouri, Jenny Packham, Alvina Valenta, Kelly Faetanini, Houghton, and Theia.

#3: Crop Tops and Cutouts

It’s not just a plunging neckline that makes a statement and steals the show for modern designers. For an equally racy and cool look, 2015 fashion trends give us jumpsuits, belted shirtdress, crop tops, fun jackets, miniskirts, and…pants! Again, this is exactly the alternative you need to stand out from the rest who are wearing the conventional or tested ball gown of yesteryears. Quirky pumps or slip-on sneakers are completely your choice.

Two-piece wedding dresses are effortless and comfortable to dress with, giving the girl the sexy and delicate appearance she wants on her big day, while making it easy to “change” from the wedding look to the reception host in a moment. Designers of interest include Tara LaTour, Monique Lhuillier, Vera Wang, and JJ Mende.

Some like Anne Bowen, Delphine Manivet, and Houghton get serious with pretty, cozy sweaters, cropped coats, and winter outerwear to layer their collection. Plenty more like Rivini, Leanne Marshall, Anne Barge, Alvina Valenta, Chistos Coastarellos, and Kenneth Pool have their collections sport geometric cuts waist, under the neckline, along the silhouette’s sides, or on skirt with or without a lace insert.

#4: Capes and Capelets

What’s a wedding without some drama? Well, you can have one, but on your own terms this time! This year’s wedding dress trends include wearing capes while walking down the aisle. It’s a good option too for brides who want or have to cover up but not by committing themselves to sleeves or veils. Whether you’re a fan of superhero-styled ones or the classic coatlike, this 2015 fashion trend has got your back.

Some of the designers to ace up floor-length capes in a major way are Jean-Ralph Thurin, Badgley Mischka, Theia, Mira Zwillinger, Naeem Khan, Alberta Ferretti, Watters, and Angel Sanchez.

#5: Exclusive Fabrics

Another  of this year’s wedding dress hot trends is the use of unique fabrics like stardust lace, leather, cotton pique, or puckered jacquard, to make up for mesmerizing nuptials. Others still opt for breezy fabrics while some use see-through and revealing creations with sheer sleeves, open backs, and couple of single layers of tulle – strategically placed of course – on the catwalk.

Show some skin and set the town abuzz wearing sensual dresses from Romona Keveza, Hayley Paige, Judd Waddell, Amsale, Marchesa, Vera Wang, and Reem Acra who believe in brides more interested in highlighting their sexuality than a demure style.

#6: Party Fringe

Need something playful enough to dance at your reception in style? You may want to check out the latest wedding dresses coming from Hayley Paige and Naeem Khan. Feminine embellishment, whether they’re the tuft at sleeve or waist, or dusting lightly on the skirt, are a delight to sore eyes with the movement and shimmer they bring to any dress. Other designers of note include Jim Hjelm, Aria, and Sassi Holdord.

#7: Turtlenecks and Collars

Women who’d be saying ‘I do’ this fall and winter will applaud the creativity of designers in coming up with this form of high necks and majestic sophistication as part of the traditional wedding gown.

Favorite designers include Oleg Cassini, Marchesa, Pronovias, Delphine Manivet, Houghton, Claire Pettibone, Gemy Maalouf, and Maggie Sottero.

#8: Reimagining Florals

This isn’t your average flower pattern on a wedding dress. This time around, fashion trends celebrate oversized floral embellishments, adding another dimension and literally jumping off the fabric for a futuristic wedding look.

Some of the best looks for this dress are from Mira Zwillinger, Jim Hjlem, Marchesa, and Elizabeth Fillmore.

#9: Deep V

Finally, the one that ruled above the rest – the deep V. We had a dress that can easily be transformed into a red carpet winner for how the iconic neckline plunged all the way down to the waist.

Whether it were Inabal Dror’s longe-sleeve lace with a high front slit, Carol Hannah’s layered dress, Houghtons’ silk long-sleeve and floor-length dress, Angel Sanchez’s sleeveless crepe sheath and embroidered lace, or Mark Zunino’s beaded A-line tulle with nude details, style divas have a lot to catch up with this season.

Now, they’d go to great lengths to keep it that way even if it means keeping the following secret. Point is, are you willing to do as well? Read on to know 8 things your wedding photographer won’t tell you and know you aren’t making the mistake of your life on your special day!

#1: The Wedding Photographer Is Not Your Wedding Planner

As unlikely as it seems, some clients actually do confuse the roles and regard them as synonymous. They are surprised therefore, when they don’t seem to be impressed with your innovations around the place. If they aren’t going gaga over a gorgeous walkway that cost you an arm and leg to get included or a family heirloom you wore to the event, chances are, they won’t be asking you specifically to pose by it. In fact, chances are they’ve already taken note of the moments and details they think would make for an interesting photo shoot.

Point here is, don’t try and micromanage, but don’t shy of telling them either anything or any instant you’d want featured in your album. Give him the details instead of expecting him to read your mind or have an exceptional insight to offer for your program.

#2: No Two Photographers Have the Same Style; Research First, Then Hire

This one’s quite common too in nearly every instance where professionals have been sought. You don’t need to be a fan to see that each of them has a unique style. Some would opt for the classic look in the pictures they take, others experiment. The equipment they’d have will also be in line with their preference. Capturing different personalities too is an influence here.

Costs and packages are easy temptations when you go about asking and looking up wedding photographers in your area; they are important too especially when you are running on a tight budget. But before you do that, identify the photographer for the kind of photos they take. Instead of random blog pictures, go through the ones they have of real clients and weddings and see whether it’s something you’d want in your album or not.

#3: The Wedding Photographer should be respected

Sure, this is their work and you’re the boss here, but your wedding isn’t the time for you and your guests to insult them in any way. Can you recall, for example, the number of times a wedding photographer’s schedule initially agreed to has been completely ignored? Can you recall, for example, the number of times wedding guests have intruded the shoot to show off their own ‘skills’, the number of times the hosts themselves forgot to inform the caterers that they feed the photographer along with other guests, or reserving seats for them at both the ceremony and reception?

As a polite gesture, this is one of the things your wedding photographer won’t tell you, they’d just bite their tongue and let it pass. But if you remember that only a happy photographer can also be a creative one, you won’t need second reminders to treat him with respect and to think that they too have a life.

#4: Your Photographer Would Rather Avoid Too Many Digital Tricks

I’d want to go with my instincts on this one, which is to trust the photographer when he talks of the lighting, effect and other such photography details. Not only using too much of Photoshop and a variety of software to enhance your pictures going to cost you a good number of money, it’s also going make a picture lose its original touch. These techniques – adjusting the sharpness, contrast, brightness, and color – to fix a picture, are better when done subtly.

So, schedule the ceremony appropriately, particularly if you wish for an outdoor wedding and if you’re thinking of after-the-wedding photo shoot.

#5: Hiring Doesn’t Mean the Photographer will be taking the Pictures

Err, then what’s he going to be doing? Surprised? Bewildered? Only if you’ve not factored in that a majority of photographers these days have a whole group of assistants to begin with. Some work as a team, with the assistants helping the lead photographer for coverage from different angles. Others have them independent covering assignments.

Now it depends on you whether you’re happy to see that the success of your photography isn’t solely dependent on the (un)availability of one photographer only. Or if it’s because of the individual photographers’ services only that you’re hiring them, then do make sure to clarify it at that moment only.

#6: The Wedding Photographer is Not Your Stylist

Come to think of it, this seems to be an extension of #1. Honestly, you aren’t paying them to flatter either. Inspired with Pinterest, which by the way isn’t the real life, don’t ask them to judge the setting, your makeup, the dress frills, etc. At best, you’d only be getting blank stares and at best, you’d be misinterpreting them that something is indeed wrong.

Smile when they appreciate beautiful makeup or proper hair style. Don’t fret when they don’t for a majority of them are going to say so in extreme cases like a makeup smeared all over the face. Now that doesn’t have very high probability now, does it; you get the hint.

#7: Plan on Slowing It Down

If you’re wondering whether you’d be having one or two shots only like your next door neighbor’s daughter’s best friend have of the processional, then you aren’t in on the secret: that’s the most you get if the bridal party goes down the aisle or the couple makes an entrance at reception as if in a race. Add to it dimly lit venues and dance moves way ahead of the photographer and you still think the photographer wouldn’t have informed them first about it.

A nice and easy walk is perfect. Hold that kiss at the altar too if you don’t want the awkward recreations. And with all the craziness going on already, do tell the photographer not just by name but by you or someone pulling them aside with every VIP family member you want a photo with.

#8: Relax, Breathe, and Have Fun

Finally, the last of the things your wedding photographer won’t be telling you is to take a chill pill and not sweat over little things gone wrong, the wedding dress got dirty, a tradition was skipped, or the props were set on fire. They don’t make timeless photos either way; what does it you and your partner alone.

To enable the photographers get the kind you’d look over fondly and your children would love to have in their house, make sure you give them the right aesthetic ingredients. Live the moment and then you won’t be disappointed.

Whether you’ve found this bitchy, funny, or totally accurate, you should believe them for these are the 8 things your photographer won’t tell you.

But before trying to take care of your appearance with the help of sophisticated, exclusivist and expensive methods, you should first take care of your inner state and peace of mind.

Top 3 items of advice my grandma would give you

1. Make love your priority, before and after the big event! Only authentic love will bring you happiness and happiness is the key ingredient for that glowing, radiant complexion we all want on our big day… and after… ‘till death do us part.
2. Keep it simple! Don’t overdress, over hair-do, over make-up, over wear jewels or over… anything. Simple is beautiful and it will always stay like this no matter what others tell you.
3. Stop worrying about how the day will be. Sunny, rainy, with good food but bad drinks, with talented photographers but lousy waiters, with happy friends but fussy relatives and so on. After many years, any awkward moment from this day will be that moment to make fun of with your friends and grandsons. Just enjoy the big day! It’s your moment and your future husband’s, and that’s it.

Funny moment: I fainted at my best friends’ wedding because of the high temperatures outside. I was so embarrassed that I wanted to disappear from the face of the earth. It’s the funniest moment to talk about for the last 15 years or so…

Now you have checked the most important thing: a peaceful frame of mind which should be the guarantee of a large smile and a glowing complexion!

And since we were talking about your complexion, there are other things for you to consider before the big day. Looking good at your wedding is not as complicated as it seems, but it’s essential to start by taking care of yourself at least a few days before the day comes:

• Don’t do anything in excess the week before the wedding like lost nights, over-drinking or over-eating. If your bachelorette party is just before the wedding and you have to have a few (more) drinks with the girls, make sure you drink plenty of water so you don’t get dehydrated. At the same time, a strict diet won’t do you any good either, especially if it’s low on calories. You might lose some weight, but the dress won’t fit you perfectly anymore and, more than this, you might lack energy at your own wedding. You really don’t want this to happen…

• Don’t dramatically change your hair such as turning blonde from brunette or having a total new haircut. The same goes for your eyebrows, too. An eyebrow fail may be naturally repaired in 3 months or even more, depending on the damages.

• Don’t expose yourself to the sun days before the event thinking you’ll look sexier with a tan. Except the risk of a sun burn, your elegant style will simply vanish, even if your dress is created in the very heart of Paris.

• Don’t do everything yourself and ask family and friends for support or go to a specialist; it’s no shame to let a professional do your makeup or hair, or take care of the flowers arrangements. You need time for yourself so you’ll be in the best shape ever for the wedding day.

In a few words, our advice is to stay away from any temptations to experiment with new bold appearances just before the day.

A list of “don’ts” requires its sister list of “dos”. We want you to look stunning, flawless, beyond imagination… and we are certain you want this, too.

A few days before the big event

• Start eating fruits and vegetables. You’ll increase your body hydration level naturally and the fibers will help your digestive system function well, not to mention that your face will look fresh.
• Apply a do-it-yourself facial treatment, all natural with no chemicals added. Your face will look brighter and the skin, healthier. An interesting and easy to make at home facial mask recipe can be found here.
• Have a few massage sessions. Relaxing your body will definitely help your mind and spirit, and invigorate your skin and muscles.
• Whiten your teeth. Your dentist will certainly help with this either in his office or by giving you a treatment for home use.
• Have a makeup and hairstyle rehearsal. It’s a wise thing to know before whether your choices are in your best interest or you can do better. Usually, any beauty center may offer you a full service package, including these two essential aspects, so ask yours to do the same.

Just before the day

• Go to your beauty center and have a real bridal nail adventure; some prefer it simple, some love an extravagant style; either way, just take care of your nails; you can get some inspiration here.
• Eat fresh and simple meals to avoid digestive problems and unpleasant allergies.
• Have a beauty nap during the day, if possible.
• Meditate for 1 hour.
• Try a relaxing bath, a cup of green tea and positively visualize your years to come.
• Have a pleasant relaxing evening and sleep those 8 hours over the night before; this is not a myth.

On the big day

Most people won’t say it, but we’ll do: now this is the time to relax for real. You’ll start a brand new life with your beloved one so you have all the reasons to be happy, radiant, beautiful, and with the right attitude. Don’t let stress get in your way!

• Have your make-up and hair done. Simple though fancy styles are welcome and you’ll avoid overpowering the dress; avoid extremes: either strong colors or pale tones.
• Wear a fine perfume.
• Add some discrete jewels. Now it’s the day for the wedding ring to stay in the bright light of fame.
• Last, but not least, when they take pictures of you, model like you’re going to be on the cover for Vogue!

Looking good at your wedding is a combination of attitude, discipline and beauty tips and tricks, but don’t forget you also have to look good in the wedding photos. Pictures are important as they keep your memories fresh over the years and most of the time they are the proofs of some excellent moments.

How to model for your wedding pictures

• Be funny only if this comes naturally or you’ll look silly.
• Smile with your eyes, not just your lips.
• Lower your shoulders and raise the chin, but not too much (your neck will look much more attractive and long).
• Raise your eyebrows and your eyes will look bigger.
• Stand up straight as many failed photos are due to bad posture.
• Hold your bouquet properly, meaning at your hip, avoiding looking like you’re hiding behind it.
• Avoid red carpet style if you’re not that kind.
• Remember, it takes 2 to have beautiful moments… and photos.

When it comes to beauty or attitude, the safest way to have a memorable wedding day is to avoid transforming yourself into a different person than you are.

Our advice: be authentic, stay simple, and just help your beauty and style with small tips and tricks. And, of course, relax and enjoy!

We wish you a great wedding day! Please let us know if you have more tips for looking good at your wedding that you’d like to share with us.