Tag: Legal Name Change

 

In this digital age, technology has opened endless possibilities, and one area where it truly shines in wedding planning is digital wedding stationery. Instead of purchasing and mailing traditional paper invitations, now, you can add a modern twist to your wedding preparations with convenient technology. 

Whether you are looking to save money or paper or the idea of waiting on the mail makes you anxious, digital stationery can be an excellent tool to help you plan your wedding and keep your guests informed. 

We are exploring so great ways to utilize this fantastic digital trend. With digital wedding tools, you can effortlessly add a modern touch to your wedding planning while staying eco-friendly and innovative. Embrace these great ways to use digital wedding stationery to make your special day one for the digital history books!

 

Digital Save-the-Dates

A beautiful, eye-catching save-the-date card arrives in your guests’ email inboxes, and as they open it, they’re greeted with a delightful surprise. Your love story comes to life right before their eyes, presented in a style that reflects the essence of your relationship. Whether it’s a charming animated timeline of your romance or a heartfelt collage of pictures, the digital format allows for creative freedom like never before.

But the magic doesn’t stop there! With digital save-the-dates, you can easily provide essential information with just a click. Links to your wedding website are seamlessly embedded, making it effortless for guests to access all the details they need to plan their attendance. From the ceremony and reception locations to accommodation options and travel suggestions, everything is conveniently laid out, ensuring your guests are well-informed and ready to celebrate with you.

 

Customizable Invitations

With digital invitations, the possibilities are boundless. You have the freedom to infuse your personality and love story into every detail. Let your imagination soar as you design invitations that narrate your journey as a couple, from that fateful first meeting to the cherished moments that led you to this milestone. Use breathtaking visuals or even incorporate short animations that depict key moments in your relationship. The beauty of digital invitations lies in their ability to bring your love story to life in a way that traditional paper invites simply can’t match.

Moreover, digital invitations are not only visually captivating but also eco-friendly. By opting for a paperless approach, you’re contributing to a greener environment and setting an example for a sustainable celebration.

 

RSVP Made Easy

Gone are the days of sending out pre-stamped RSVP cards, only to wonder if they got lost in the abyss of the postal system. With digital RSVPs, the process is simplified, making it effortless for your guests to respond to your invitation. A simple click is all it takes! As soon as your guests receive their digital invitation, they can instantly RSVP with a few taps on their smartphones, tablets, or computers. No more mailing or delays in response times – it’s all done in a matter of seconds.

In addition, managing digital RSVPs is a breeze. You can access the responses in real time through your wedding website or email, keeping you informed of your guest list as it takes shape. Say goodbye to manual tallying and spreadsheets; the digital platform organizes all the responses neatly, helping you plan with ease and precision.

 

A Digital Guest Book 

 

Your wedding day is a tapestry of cherished moments, and what better way to preserve those memories than through a virtual guest book that captures the love and warmth of your closest friends and family? Set up this heartfelt space where your loved ones can leave their personal touches, and watch as it becomes a treasure trove of emotions that will warm your hearts for years to come.

The beauty of a virtual guest book lies in its accessibility. For those who can’t be there in person, it becomes a lifeline to the celebration. Friends and family from afar can participate in your special day by leaving heartfelt messages, sharing their well-wishes, and sending their love from wherever they may be. This sense of togetherness, despite the distance, creates a connection that spans miles and makes your celebration truly global.

 

Say Thank You Digitally

 

In the era of digital communication, expressing your thanks has never been easier. Gone are the days of painstakingly handwriting individual cards or running to the post office to mail them out. With digital thank-you cards, you can effortlessly reach out to all your guests in a matter of moments.

In this age of visual storytelling, infuse your thank-you cards with a touch of nostalgia. Include a couple of your favorite wedding photos, capturing the joy and love that filled the air on your special day. These snapshots will remind your guests of the magical moments they shared with you, allowing them to relive the celebration and bask in the happiness once again.

 

There are so many great wedding catering trends this year! With wedding planning, creating a wedding experience that reflects your unique personalities and makes lasting memories is integral. What better way to celebrate than with delectable delights that leave your guests raving? 

We are highlighting the most fabulous and fun trends that are making waves at weddings this year. From globally inspired fusion cuisine that brings the world to your plate to cool and creative cocktails, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to explore a gastronomic adventure that will leave your guests utterly amazed.

 

So, let’s dive into the wonderful world of wedding catering trends for 2023, where culinary creativity and innovation take center stage!

 

Global Cuisine Fusion

 

Are you and your partner adventurers at heart – eager to explore the diverse flavors of the world? In 2023, the trend of global cuisine fusion in wedding catering takes your taste buds on an exhilarating journey. This trend brings together the best of various culinary traditions to create a truly remarkable dining experience. 

Options like Mediterranean feasts and Asian-inspired tapas are particularly popular right now. Enjoy exciting international food dishes that will transport you and your guests to far-off lands without ever leaving your reception.

 

Farm-to-Table Delights

 

Farm-to-table catering is a trend that celebrates the connection between the earth, the farmers, and your plate. Imagine a wedding feast where each bite tells a story of the land it comes from, where the flavors are vibrant, and the ingredients are at their peak. One of the most remarkable aspects of farm-to-table catering is the unparalleled freshness of the ingredients. 

With a focus on local sourcing, your wedding menu will feature produce picked at its peak ripeness, bursting with flavor and nutrients. From the vibrant greens of crisp lettuce to the juicy sweetness of seasonal fruits, every ingredient will shine, making each dish a tantalizing masterpiece.

 

Vegetarian and Vegan Meals

In the ever-evolving culinary landscape, vegetarian and vegan catering has taken center stage, offering a delicious and compassionate approach to wedding feasts. Whether you and your partner follow a plant-based lifestyle or simply wish to embrace the growing trend of mindful eating, vegetarian and vegan catering provides an abundance of flavors, creativity, and nourishment. 

Vegetarian and vegan catering also ensures that your wedding feast accommodates guests with diverse dietary preferences and restrictions. It allows everyone to partake in the celebration without compromising their values or having to make special requests. 

 

Food Trucks Options

Looking to add a dash of excitement and casual charm to your wedding celebration? Consider the rising trend of food trucks for your catering needs. Food trucks offer a unique and memorable dining experience that offers delicious fare. 

 

One of the great advantages of food trucks is their ability to offer a wide variety of food options. They can be a perfect fit for couples with diverse culinary preferences or guests with different dietary restrictions. By booking multiple food trucks, you can create a mini food festival at your wedding, offering a range of cuisines to please every guest.

 

Cool and Creative Cocktails

When it comes to your wedding celebration, the bar is an essential element that sets the mood and keeps the spirits high. If you’re looking to take your cocktail game to the next level, it’s time to explore the world of cool and creative cocktails. These innovative libations not only tantalize the taste buds but also offer a unique visual and sensory experience that will leave your guests in awe. 

Get creative with unexpected flavor combinations that challenge the taste buds and excite the senses. Think jalapeño-infused cocktails with a hint of watermelon sweetness or a refreshing cucumber and basil mojito. Experimenting with unique ingredients and fusing unexpected flavors can result in cocktails that are both cool and deliciously memorable.

 

Innovative Wedding Cakes and Desserts

No wedding celebration is complete without a delectable sweet ending that leaves your guests with a lingering taste of delight. From traditional tiered cakes to alternative dessert options, wedding cakes and desserts have evolved into a world of creativity and decadence. There are a lot of popular options right now, like vintage-style cakes and semi-naked cakes. 

Some couples step away from traditional flavors and explore whimsical and unexpected combinations. From lavender-infused cakes with honey buttercream to champagne-flavored tiers with strawberry filling, there are tons of inventive flavor profiles to choose from. Consider incorporating unique fillings like salted caramel, matcha ganache, or passion fruit curd for an added surprise.

Instead of a single wedding cake, another trend is to create a stunning dessert table or display that showcases an array of desserts. Incorporate a mix of cakes, cupcakes, cookies, tarts, and other sweet delights, styled in an aesthetically pleasing arrangement. This style allows guests to choose their favorites and adds a sense of abundance and variety to your dessert offerings.

 

While you are on the wonderful journey of planning your dream wedding, you likely envision a day filled with joy, love, and picturesque moments. However, Mother Nature may have other plans, and a rainy day could be in store. But don’t stress! Embracing the unexpected and turning it into something magical is crucial for handling a rainy wedding day.  

To handle the unexpected, it is important to have backup plans. We have put together a collection of our best creative rainy-day wedding solutions. These ideas will not only keep you dry but also infuse your loving celebration with charm and distinctiveness. So, let’s welcome the raindrops and discover how they can enhance your special day, making it a cherished memory for a lifetime.

Consider Indoor Venues and Backup Plans

 

While you might have dreamed of exchanging vows under a clear blue sky, rainy weather is entirely unpredictable. It is always a wise move to have a backup plan in place, like having an indoor venue booked. Embrace the possibility of rain with open arms and choose an equally stunning indoor location. 

If you plan to have a reception after the ceremony, booking an indoor venue for the duration of the day is a great solution and backup plan. With a bit of planning, indoor venues can double as a space for your ceremony and your reception. From elegant ballrooms to rustic barns with character or even a historic mansion, there are plenty of captivating indoor options that will host your nuptials with style and grace. 

Have Rainy Day Wedding Accessories

Who said rainy days can’t be fashionable? Instead of fretting over umbrellas ruining your wedding aesthetic, make them a delightful addition to your wardrobe! If the rain is more of a light sprinkle than a downpour, embrace the raindrops by providing your guests with chic and coordinating umbrellas. These will not only add a pop of color to the backdrop but also keep everyone dry with a touch of elegance. Your wedding photos can even take on a dreamy quality with the rain-kissed umbrellas.

 

If you are worried about your guests’ shoes getting muddy, offer a touch of comfort and a dash of fun by providing rain boots or flip-flops – depending on the season. Not only will this thoughtful gesture keep shoes from getting ruined, but it will also set the tone for a relaxed and enjoyable celebration. If it is a bit chilly along with the rain, have cozy blankets on hand to create a warm and intimate atmosphere.

 

Create a Magical Tent for a Cozy Celebration

If the rain is coming down, but the idea of an outdoor wedding still holds a special place in your heart, don’t worry—tents are here to save the day! Renting a spacious tent can be a great solution for an outdoor wedding on a rainy day. Tents can be transformed into captivating havens with the help of fairy lights, flowing drapery, and whimsical decorations. The decorated tent will add to the romantic ambiance and provide protection for you and your guests to enjoy the outdoor atmosphere without the worry of getting soaked.

 

Have a Picture-Perfect Indoor Photo Op

Rain or shine, cherish every moment with delightful indoor photo locations. Explore the beauty of your venue or nearby places with captivating backdrops, such as elegant staircases, charming libraries, or even a quaint greenhouse, making your photos nothing short of magical. Your wedding album will be filled with enchanting memories captured amidst romantic indoor settings.

 

Plan Refreshing Rainy Day Cocktails

 

Celebrate the day with delightful and thematic rainy-day cocktails. Toast to your love with fun signature cocktails like “Raindrop Delight” or “Cloudy Bliss.” These creative little additions will make every sip a memorable part of your unique wedding experience. These signature cocktails will add an extra touch of imagination to your reception, leaving your guests with fond memories of all the little details you’ve thought out for the experience. 

 

Have Rainy Day Wedding Favors 

Show your gratitude to your guests with thoughtful rainy-day wedding favors. Customized umbrellas, monogrammed towels, or cute mini bottles of hot cocoa will make your guests feel appreciated and cared for, rain or shine! These little tokens of appreciation will leave a lasting impression and serve as a sweet reminder of your love-filled celebration.

 

Embrace Every Raindrop

In the end, the most crucial solution to any rainy wedding day is to embrace the romance in every raindrop. Rain can bring unexpected moments of magic and intimacy, resulting in breathtakingly beautiful memories that are uniquely yours. So, don’t let a little rain deter you from creating the wedding of your dreams. Embrace the weather, celebrate love, and let your creativity shine through on this special day. With these creative rainy-day wedding solutions, you will discover that love indeed conquers all—especially a little bit of rain!

 

Planning a wedding is an exciting and joyful time in any engaged couple’s life, but it can also come with its fair share of stress. From juggling budgets to handling guest lists and coordinating vendors, the pressure can sometimes feel overwhelming. However, with the right mindset and some effective stress management techniques, you can navigate through this process with ease. 

Some great ways to manage wedding stress and ensure that your journey to the big day is as enjoyable as possible include staying organized, communicating with your partner, and taking care of yourselves. Remember, your wedding day is about celebrating your love and commitment, so don’t let stress steal the spotlight!

Communicate Openly with Your Partner

 

Open and honest communication is key to managing stress during wedding planning. Don’t forget that you are in this together! Discuss your expectations, share responsibilities, and work as a team. By supporting each other, you will find it easier to tackle any challenges that come your way now and in the future.

Delegate Tasks and Enlist Help

You don’t have to do everything on your own! Enlist the help of trusted family members, friends, or a wedding planner if your budget allows. Delegate tasks and responsibilities to lighten your load. Don’t forget that asking for help is not a sign of weakness – but a way to reduce stress and ensure everything gets done smoothly without suffering from burnout.

 

Set a Realistic Budget

Finances can be a significant source of stress during wedding planning. Do your best to curb this issue from the beginning. Start by determining a realistic budget and stick to it. Break down your expenses and prioritize what is most important to you as a couple. Remember that it is perfectly fine to splurge on certain aspects of your wedding as long as you stay within your means.

 

Stay Organized

With all the details to manage during the wedding planning process, you want to make sure you stay organized! Keep track of all your wedding-related tasks, appointments, and deadlines by implementing a system. There are a bunch of different tools you can utilize, like wedding planning apps, checklists, or a wedding binder. Having a clear overview of what needs to be done and when will help alleviate stress and ensure you don’t miss any important details.

 

Keep a Consistent Sleep Schedule

 

Planning a wedding involves a multitude of tasks, decisions, and responsibilities, which can easily lead to stress and sleepless nights. However, maintaining a healthy sleep schedule during this time is crucial for your overall well-being and the success of your wedding planning process. Some tips for maintaining a healthy sleep schedule include establishing a consistent bedtime and making sure you have a cozy and comfortable sleeping environment. 

 

Practice Meditation and Yoga

Wedding planning can often feel like a whirlwind of appointments, decisions, and deadlines. Amidst the chaos, it is crucial to find moments of calm and relaxation to restore your energy and focus. Incorporating mindfulness and stress-reducing techniques such as meditation and yoga into your daily routine can be a big help in managing wedding stress. 

Meditation is a practice that comprises focusing your attention and purging the stream of thoughts that may be running through your mind. By adding meditation into your routine, you can experience a sense of calm and mental clarity. Yoga combines physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation to promote physical and mental well-being. It is an excellent way to relieve tension, improve flexibility, and find balance amidst the wedding planning process. 

 

Maintain a Healthy Diet

Maintaining a healthy diet while planning a wedding is of utmost importance as it directly impacts your physical and mental well-being during this exciting time. A nutritious diet provides the essential nutrients, energy, and vitality needed to navigate through the demands of wedding planning. It supports sustained energy levels, enhances mental focus, and aids in stress reduction, enabling you to approach tasks with clarity and calmness. As a bonus, a healthy diet contributes to a radiant appearance. It promotes healthy skin, hair, and nails and can help you feel confident and beautiful on your special day. 

 

Take Breaks and Practice Self-Care

Amidst the hustle and bustle of wedding planning, it is crucial to take breaks and prioritize self-care. Schedule regular time-outs to relax, unwind, and do activities that bring you joy. Whether it’s going for a walk, journaling, reading a book, or indulging in a spa day, self-care is essential for maintaining your well-being.

 

Celebrate the Small Wins

Don’t forget to celebrate and acknowledge your achievements along the way. Completing tasks, securing a venue, or finalizing your guest list are all milestones worth celebrating. Reward yourselves as a couple and take time to enjoy the journey. Celebrations can take the form of date nights or other fun plans where you can spend time with your partner without thinking about wedding planning.

 

As you embark on the exciting journey of planning your special day, you might notice a growing trend. In addition to planning an unforgettable wedding, many people have also set out to help protect the environment with eco-friendly weddings. Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important consideration in all aspects of our lives, so it’s no wonder that engaged couples are seeking creative ways to celebrate love while minimizing their ecological footprint.

In this article, we will guide you through some fantastic eco-friendly wedding ideas that are sure to inspire you as you plan your nuptials. From choosing a green venue to embracing sustainable attire, we will explore a range of options that align with your values and help create a wedding day that positively impacts the world.

So, let’s dive in and discover how you can weave sustainability into many aspects of your special day, from invitations to decorations, food, and more. These tips will empower you to make conscious choices that reflect your values and inspire your guests to embrace eco-friendly practices.

 

Choose a Green Venue

When selecting a venue for your eco-friendly wedding, look for places that prioritize sustainable practices. Consider venues with LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, which ensures that the building meets high standards of energy efficiency and sustainability. Look for locations that utilize renewable energy sources like solar or wind power. Outdoor venues such as parks, gardens, or beaches can also provide a stunning natural backdrop for your ceremony and reception.

 

Eco-Friendly Invitations 

Reduce paper waste by opting for electronic invitations. Digital invites not only save trees but also allow for easy RSVP management. If you prefer physical invitations, choose recycled paper or eco-friendly cardstock made from sustainable materials. Another unique option is to consider plantable invitations, which are embedded with seeds. After the event, your guests can plant these invitations and watch flowers or herbs bloom as a beautiful reminder of your special day.

 

Sustainable Attire

Make a fashion statement while being environmentally conscious by selecting wedding attire made from organic, recycled, or vintage materials. Look for designers who prioritize sustainable and ethical practices, using fabrics like organic cotton, hemp, or bamboo. Consider renting or borrowing attire to reduce waste. If you are sentimental, consider repurposing a family member’s wedding dress or suit for a touch of vintage charm.

 

Local and Seasonal Cuisine

Support local farmers and reduce the carbon footprint associated with transporting food by selecting a caterer who sources ingredients locally and focuses on organic, seasonal, and sustainable options. Embrace the flavors of the region and serve dishes made from locally grown produce and ethically raised meats. Incorporating farm-to-table concepts will not only tantalize taste buds but also promote sustainable agricultural practices.

 

Zero-Waste Decorations

 

Get creative with eco-friendly decorations to minimize waste. Use reusable or recycled materials for your decor. Consider incorporating potted plants as centerpieces or using flowers sourced from local and sustainable sources. Opt for repurposed items like mason jars, wine bottles, or thrifted vases. Get crafty and make your own decorations using natural elements such as driftwood or fallen leaves.

 

Eco-Friendly Favors

Express gratitude to your guests with eco-friendly wedding favors that they can enjoy guilt-free. Choose items that align with sustainability, such as seed packets of native flowers or herbs, small potted plants, or even reusable water bottles. Support local artisans by selecting locally made organic goodies like honey, soap, or candles. These thoughtful favors will leave a lasting impression and inspire your guests to adopt eco-conscious habits.

 

Carbon-Offset Your Travel

If you and your guests need to travel long distances to attend your wedding, consider supporting carbon offset projects to neutralize the environmental impact of transportation. Many organizations offer carbon offset programs that fund initiatives like reforestation or renewable energy projects. Encourage carpooling or provide shuttle services to reduce emissions and promote sustainable travel options.

 

Sustainable Flowers

Selecting sustainable flowers can be a blooming success for your eco-friendly wedding. Choose locally grown, organic flowers from nearby farms, or even consider using dried flowers or plants as unique alternatives. Avoid florists who rely on unsustainable practices such as excessive packaging or air-freighting flowers from distant locations. By opting for sustainable floral arrangements, you can support local flower growers and reduce the ecological footprint associated with the floral industry.

 

Renewable Energy and Lighting

 

Power your wedding with renewable energy sources whenever possible. If your venue allows, consider utilizing solar or wind energy to reduce reliance on non-renewable power. Use LED or energy-efficient lighting throughout the event to conserve electricity. Incorporate natural lighting during daytime ceremonies and receptions to create a warm, eco-friendly ambiance.

 

Waste Management

Take proactive steps to manage waste effectively during your wedding celebration. Set up recycling and composting stations at your venue and work closely with the staff to ensure waste is properly sorted and disposed of. Minimize the use of single-use items by opting for reusable or compostable alternatives, such as biodegradable plates, utensils, and cups. By prioritizing waste reduction and recycling, you will leave a positive environmental impact on your wedding day.

 

 

Your wedding day is a momentous occasion filled with love, joy, and celebration. Among the many things on your wedding checklist, finding the perfect wedding dress is definitely one of the most thrilling and memorable tasks. But with so many options and considerations, where do you begin? 

There are a lot of things to keep in mind as you go forward with wedding dress shopping. Doing some research beforehand and not overwhelming yourself with options are just two important pieces of advice we will cover for this pivotal wedding planning occasion. We will also provide some other essential dos and don’ts of wedding dress shopping to ensure that you find a dress that makes you look and feel absolutely radiant on your big day. Happy shopping!

 

Do Your Research

 

Before stepping foot in a bridal boutique, take the time to research and explore different styles, silhouettes, and trends. Look through magazines, browse online platforms, and follow bridal accounts on social media for inspiration. Also, consider your body type and personal preferences, as this will help you narrow down your choices and make your shopping experience more efficient and enjoyable.

 

Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute

Shopping for your wedding dress should be a fun and stress-free experience, so don’t leave it for the last minute! Instead, start the process well in advance, ideally six to nine months before your wedding day. This timeframe allows you to find your dress, schedule alterations, and account for any unexpected delays. Avoid unnecessary stress by giving yourself ample time to explore your options and make the best decision.

 

Do Set a Budget

Wedding budgets can quickly spiral out of control if not carefully managed. Determine a realistic budget for your wedding dress and factor in additional costs such as alterations and accessories. By setting a budget and sticking to it, you will avoid overspending and ensure that you have ample funds for other important aspects of your special day.

 

Don’t Overwhelm Yourself with Options

 

While it is tempting to visit every bridal store in town and try on countless dresses, doing so can quickly become overwhelming. Limit the number of stores you visit in a single day to avoid feeling exhausted and mentally drained. During each appointment, try on a manageable number of dresses, perhaps five or six, to give each gown the attention it deserves. Remember, quality over quantity is key when it comes to finding the dress that speaks to your heart.

 

Do Book Appointments

To make the most of your wedding dress shopping experience, you will want to call ahead and book appointments at bridal boutiques. This makes sure that you receive dedicated attention from knowledgeable consultants who can guide you through the fitting and selection process. Consider scheduling appointments during weekdays or less busy times to avoid crowds and confirm a more personalized experience. Additionally, plan ahead to secure appointments at your preferred stores, especially if they are popular or in high demand.

 

Don’t Disregard Comfort

Your wedding day will be filled with various activities, from walking down the aisle to dancing the night away. Make sure that your dress fits well and allows you to move comfortably. Consider the fabric, weight, and length of the dress to confirm that it matches the style of your wedding and the season. Prioritize both style and comfort, as you want to look stunning and feel at ease throughout the day.

 

Do Bring Supportive Companions

 

Inviting loved ones to accompany you on your dress-shopping journey can add a meaningful touch to the experience. Choose close family members or friends whose opinions you value and who will offer constructive feedback and support. Keep in mind that having too many opinions can be overwhelming, so it is best to limit the number of people you bring along. The key is to surround yourself with individuals who will uplift and empower you during this important decision-making process.

 

Don’t Be Influenced by External Opinions

While it is natural to seek the opinions of others, remember that the final decision is ultimately yours. Consider the advice and feedback of your loved ones, but prioritize your own feelings and desires. Trust your instincts and choose a dress that makes you feel beautiful, confident, and true to yourself. It’s your wedding day, and your dress should reflect your unique personality and style.

 

Do Keep an Open Mind

 

While it is great to have some ideas and preferences in mind, be open to trying on different styles, even ones you didn’t initially consider. Wedding dresses often look different on the hanger than they do on your body. Listen to the advice of knowledgeable consultants who understand how different designs can enhance your figure. Explore a variety of dresses to possibly discover unexpected gems that might become your perfect match.

 

 

The idea that your spouse should arrive near the end of a bridal shower with flowers is becoming less common as more couples enter the wedding planning process together – likely their first big joint venture. Everyone wants to be included and participate in the festivities surrounding their wedding, so wedding showers (a co-ed version of a bridal shower) are becoming more typical. 

You might be wondering how the co-ed aspect changes the etiquette involved in planning this pre-wedding event (who should host, when the shower should be scheduled, etc.) We’re here to share our planning tips and ideas to make sure that your wedding shower goes smoothly and successfully.

 

Wedding Shower Etiquette 

 

When should the wedding shower be scheduled?

Wedding showers typically have a bit of wiggle room regarding when they should be scheduled. Any time between three months and two weeks before the wedding is recommended.

 

Who should host the wedding shower?

While bridal showers are normally hosted by bridesmaids or close women relatives, this co-ed event can be hosted by the wedding party or close relatives on either side. 

Who should be invited to the wedding shower?

Typically, guests will include close friends and family from the wedding guest list. Having your shower guest list decided on can be a big assistance when choosing a venue to host the event at.  

When should invites for the wedding shower be sent out?

You will want to make sure to send your wedding shower invitations out approximately four to six weeks prior to the event.

Wedding Shower Tips and Ideas

Set up your wedding shower registry early

A wedding shower registry is different from your wedding registry. Aside from the event it is for, the differences between the two registries also include the types of items to list and receive. Wedding shower registries typically include smaller, more personalized presents due to the smaller, more intimate nature of a shower versus a wedding.  

It is important to decide what kind of items you want to be listed on the shower registry and post the registry early so that it can be listed on your shower invitations. If you are lost between the differences between registries and don’t know what to list where, know many couples include small household décor items like picture frames and vases, items for personal enjoyment like wine and books, or donations to their favorite charities. 

 

Choose a good venue

 

Where you decide to host the wedding shower can depend on a myriad of details, such as where you are located, what season the event will be held, the size of your guest list, and the venue the wedding will be held. More intimate parties can be hosted at the home of a close relative or member of the wedding party. Slightly larger parties may want to consider a clubhouse or event space. If you are planning a large wedding party, you will probably want to consider checking with area hotels and estates to find a space to accommodate your shower.

 

Pick a cool theme

What is a party without a theme? For your wedding shower, your theme may go hand-in-hand with your venue. For example, if you are hosting the shower during summertime, you may consider throwing a barbeque-themed shower in someone’s backyard or a rented park pavilion. Have a couple of designated grillers and some comfort fixins’ for a relaxed, fun party. If you are hosting at the beach or a beach house, you can have a beach-themed shower with nautical décor and tropical bites. Smaller parties may enjoy a calm, intimate theme like a tea party or spa day. There are so many themes to choose from, and they are completely customizable to the couple being celebrated.

 

Make a fantastic music playlist

 

Once you have chosen the theme for the wedding shower, music might come naturally. Some input from the soon-to-be-wed couple can go a long way. Consult with them and see about playing some of their favorite songs and artists. There are likely to be songs of romantic significance they would appreciate being included, like a song that played on their first date or the night they celebrated their proposal. Songs with sentimental value will really personalize the playlist. Make sure to include a mix of fun songs to dance to and slow songs to carry on during dining and conversation. If you are lost, there are tons of pre-made playlists you can find online – just don’t forget to add some of those sentimental songs if possible!

 

Have some fun games to play

 

Many wedding showers will include games to entertain guests between eating and other event activities. Some popular options include sharing and deciphering personal moments in the couple’s life together, like having party guests write down their favorite memories with the couple for the couple to read aloud, collecting a number of photos starring the couple with guests trying to guess the locale the photos were taken. Games like vow-themed Mad Libs, where guests fill in blank spaces left in a traditional vow template, are sure to bring on some laughs.

 

 

We’re sure you already know that weddings are not inexpensive events to plan. There are so many things that go into planning and hosting a wedding, such as hiring a wedding planner, choosing invitations, buying wedding day outfits, booking venues, catering, entertainment, photographers, and so much more! Not to mention the time and energy spent researching your best options for these things. 

If you are trying to plan your wedding on a budget, you may be wondering where you can save money while still having the wedding of your dreams. You want to plan a wedding that you, your spouse, and all your guests will remember fondly, but you don’t want to break the bank. 

To help you out, we’ve put together some great ways to save money on your wedding that won’t sacrifice or take away from the experience of your once-and-a-lifetime day. Check them out for some great savings ideas – some of which also streamline the wedding planning process!

Pick a Less Popular Wedding Date

 

We thought we would start with a big budget-saver idea: pick a less popular wedding date. Your wedding date can end up dictating costs for your venue, catering, entertainment, and more due to higher demand during certain days and seasons. If it works with your ideal time of year or date, awesome! If not, consider an off-season wedding for tons of cost-saving advantages. For a lot of places, this could mean a winter wedding or an early spring wedding.

Have your heart set on another time of year? That’s okay because another way to save money with your wedding date is to pick any other day but Saturday. Saturday is the most popular day to host a wedding, so by choosing another day, you will likely be rewarded with more affordable rates from venues and vendors. And a nice bonus: you might have more of a selection to choose from with venues and vendors because Saturdays are often the first day to go on their availability calendars. 

 

Shorten Your Guest List

Shortening your guest list is another big money-saving idea for your wedding. You don’t necessarily have to have an intimate, 20-person wedding for this idea to be worthwhile. Even cutting your guest list down from 150 to 100 people can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars! Sit down with your fiancé and envision the most important people that will attend your wedding. Add in their plus-ones, and continue like that until you are satisfied with your list. Compare the new list to the original draft of your guest list and see if there is a big difference in how long it is. Make changes accordingly. 

Another easy way to shorten your guest list is to limit the number of plus-ones given. Consider only giving plus-ones to guests that are married or in serious relationships.

 

Purchase Your Wedding Outfit Super Early

Purchasing your wedding outfit far in advance can end up saving you a lot of money. For one, you won’t be in a rush, so you can take some time to shop around for good options. You can also check out sample sales, where bridal stores discount sample dresses for an affordable, off-the-rack deal. In addition to getting a good deal and not stressing over last-minute purchases, you will also be able to get your alterations and tailoring done without a rush. Many tailors and boutiques charge more to take in and alter your wedding day outfit when they must work on a shorter timeline. Avoid the rush fees and give yourself peace of mind by getting your outfit picked out and ready to go sooner rather than later.

 

Minimize Your Stationary Orders

You may not think of it at first, but wedding stationery adds up! From the save the date to the wedding invites to all the parties and events thrown in between (engagement party, wedding shower, etc.), you and your fiancé might find the potential tab for stationary costs adding up. Save some money by placing one bulk order for all your stationery needs at once, if possible. In addition, a great way to cut back on costs is to send out all-in-one wedding invites that include pre-addressed RSVP cards for your guests to send back.

If you are planning on hosting various events during the wedding season or want to have a portal where you can send updates to your guests prior to the wedding, you can also consider setting up a wedding website. They are simple, cost-effective options that cut back on the amount of stationery you will need to order and send out. Plus, there is less room for error in receiving information, and guests can receive your updates in a timelier manner. Not techy savvy? Don’t worry; sites have pre-made templates, so all you have to do is fill in your event details for a simple, money-saving option!