- Have extra trim from the dresses? Use them to make chic ruffle hems.
- If you've shortened the hemline (even just an inch), take the leftover fabric and use it to create straps.
- Got scraps? Make a whimsical and fun fabric flower brooch.
- If they're wearing strapless dresses, gathers in the front and center can form a flattering sweetheart neckline.
- Allow each maid to select a hem length that best suits her figure. For instance, tea length will look fabulous on your tall, slim friends, and above the knee hemlines look great on those with shorter figures.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
How to make matching bridesmaids dresses unique
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
2010 bridesmaids gown trends
One-shoulder gowns. These dresses are both elegant and sexy. Also, your maids won't have to worry about donning a strapless bra-- instead, they can wear ones with multiple strap options.
What do you think about these gowns for your bridesmaids?
Thursday, July 22, 2010
What do your wedding colors say about you?
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Wedding Etiquette Myths & Facts
Myth: The couple has a year to send thank-you notes to guests.
Fact: Gift-givers want to be sure that their gifts got to you safely and that you appreciate them. This means thank-you notes are expected and should be sent ASAP-- at least within three months of receiving each gift.
Another tip: Write a few notes every day instead of writing them all at once. Also, sending notes before the wedding date is an excellent way to keep up with them.
Myth: The bride's family is required to pay for most of the wedding and reception.
Fact: If the bride's family wants to, they can pay for all or most of the wedding/reception, but it's definitely not required. In fact, it's becoming necessary for many couples to combine their financial resources for the big day. Lots of couples are starting to pay for the wedding themselves or split the expenses with their parents.
Another tip: Be sure to budget wisely. You can have a gorgeous and meaningful wedding on a small budget. And it's so important for you and your family to discuss the wedding plans and costs early on and honestly. If possible, you want to stay away from overspending and miscommunication.
Myth: A receiving line is mandatory for a wedding reception, no matter the size.
Fact: You're not required to have one, but you should personally greet all guests and thank them for coming.
Another tip: Even though it's not mandatory, a receiving line is the best way to be sure all your
guests are greeted; this is especially true at large weddings. Post's suggestion: Have a receiving line for weddings with more than 75-80 guests. By doing this, you and the hosts are able to most efficiently see all guests. If you think it might take too long, try to keep the line going at a steady pace. All you need is a 'Hello,' an introduction (if needed) and a 'Thanks for coming.'
Myth: You should always register for some traditional household items.
Fact: You should register for things that make sense for you as a couple. In today's wedding registries, you can get everything from pots and pans to camping equipment to cash for a down payment on a house. At the same time, guests aren't required to choose gifts from your registry. Gift-givers can select whatever they think you'll like; and they should never be told what to give you.
Another tip: You should register for gifts in a broad price range so your guests will have several options. Also, even if you say you only want cash gifts, it's a good idea to register for a few physical items. Some people just don't like to give cash (even if it's totally okay to do so).
For myths and etiquette tips, check out our source: Peggy Post on the Biggest Wedding Etiquette Myths Ever.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Choosing the groomsmen
* Arrive at the rehearsal on time.
* Show up at the wedding prior to other guests.
* Wear the requested attire.
* Escort guests to their seats (if necesssary).
* They may escort a bridesmaid down the aisle before and after the ceremony.
* Dance with a bridesmaid at the reception.
* Have some fun and stay relatively sober.
- If your groom has a friend that may not have the finances to participate as a groomsman, he can ask the friend to be an usher. This is also a good way reduce the wedding party numbers if necessary. You can also ask other friends to be readers or to light candles.
- There is no such thing as a "right" number of attendants to have. You don't even have to have an equal number of groomsmen and bridesmaids.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
How to ask your loved ones to be in your wedding
Ask her face to face. If possible, it's a great idea to take her to lunch so you can ask her. And if a lot of your bridesmaids live close by, you can ask them at the same time and use the lunch as an opportunity for early bridesmaid bonding.
Use humor. Everyone knows the joke that bridesmaid dresses are less than appealing. And the folks over at UglyDress.com have a collection of ugly bridesmaid dresses. You can print out your favorites, and use them to create a card with a cute or funny phrase.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
5 things to do after you say 'I do'
1. Clean and put your gown away. Get your dress dry-cleaned within six months of your wedding (the sooner, the better). Be sure to use a service that focuses on wedding dresses so they use the appropriate solvents. Ensure they stuff it with acid-free tissue, stay away from using metal pins or buckles and place it in a box. When it's home, keep it in a cool, dry place.
2. Change your name. It's ideal to change all your IDs within 90 days of tieing the knot. Here's how:
Go to DMV.org to find state forms to change your driver's license. Many states require you to bring your marriage license to the DMV as evidence of your new name.
Change your passport. Visit TravelState.gov for more info. You'll have to mail in your current passport, a copy of your marriage certificate and possibly new passport photos.
Change your social security card. You can find out how at SocialSecurity.gov. You might have to apply in person depending on where you live.
Call your credit card companies to get your name changed.
3. Send thank you notes. You should send thank-you notes within two months of your wedding. Set a goal (such as 10 per night), and write them during commercial breaks. Split the project with your hubby, and the job will be less overwhelming. Be sure that both of you sign your names on each card; another tip: print address and return address labels on your computer if you can.
4. Deal with registry returns. Go ahead and return any gifts within two months of your wedding. If you're registered with a particular store, they are likely to be lenient; keep in mind, however, that each store will have a different policy on when to make returns and what they'll take back.
5. Figure out finances. Talking about money isn't exactly fun, but hopefully you and your spouse have talked about your finances before getting hitched. Several married couples choose to combine their single accounts into one; bring this option up if you haven't already. All you have to do is visit the bank, fill out required paperwork, and obtain new debit cards and checks.
For more after wedding to-dos, check out our source: After the Wedding: Newlywed To-do List.
Photo from toyandgift.co.uk
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
4 Ways to get others involved in your wedding (besides being a bridesmaid)
Thursday, July 1, 2010
5 reasons not to elope
- Including family and friends in your ceremony is a significant emotional, social and cultural component of marriage. It might seem like the commitment is simply happening between you and your soon-to-be spouse, but the reality is that marriage encourages the support of the community. Marriage creates a bond between families and loved ones, and it requires a commitment from them to support you in your relationship.
- If you elope, you will likely end up throwing a wedding or large event anyway. Family and friends are probably going to want to celebrate with you; because of this, some couples end up having a second marriage while others throw a large party. You can avoid hosting multiple events by having a wedding in the first place.
- Eloping can distance you from those who feel hurt by your choice not to include them in such a significant event. Close family members and friends will likely feel slighted, disappointed and maybe even offended if you choose to elope. Rather than spend time repairing these relationships, why not include your loved ones?
- Planning a wedding is an important experience. It's a chance to make decisions together and gives you practice in working together towards a common goal. For some couples, it is the first time they've really had to make compromises regarding finances, priorities or preferences.
- Contrary to popular belief, it isn't all about you, but it is still your big day. Your wedding should reflect you as individuals and as a couple, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't consider others, too-- you absolutely should. Find a way to make your wedding work for everyone, and you'll have more to celebrate.