Hitchswitch-Blog

Tag: Legal Name Change

Spring 2021 Home Decor Trends

Spring cleaning has officially begun, and you know what that means…new home décor! Toss out the old dark decorations and replace them with something on-trend. I’ll help you figure out where to start on your spring decorating journey.

The goal is to find trends that are easy to pull off and incorporate into your style, and this season is perfect for that. You just have to make a few quick changes, and then you’ll be ready for spring.

This spring’s primary trend is farmhouse chic! For some, this is super exciting because farmhouse is already your favorite aesthetic. For others, farmhouse décor doesn’t really mesh with your current vibe. Just because you’re not into the farmhouse decor doesn’t mean you can’t be trendy. There are colors, textures, and ideas in this post that you can use in any aesthetic!

via GIPHY

Spring 2021 Color Pallet

Spring is notorious for its floral patterns and pastels, but I guess because of the year-long pandemic, no one is interested in the bright, bubbly pastel pinks and yellows. You’ll have a hard time finding anything more colorful than a muted green in any of these spring 2021 trends.

All of the pastels have been replaced by neutral and muted colors—the softer the color pallet, the better. Play around with whites, creams, and light colors. When your space needs more contrast, you’ll want to pair these colors with a deep brown. The brown will keep it in the natural color pallet while giving you a more exciting design.

When it comes to wood and natural features, you’ll want to be incorporating light wood washes and light natural wood. These light woods are easy to add into any space, and they give you a lot of options to play with. This spring 2021 trend is super versatile, and it allows you to be creative.

Sometimes muted colors and natural pallets can use a more exciting detail. Gold accents and gold leaf are also coming into fashion this spring. A little bit of gold could be precisely what your muted and natural décor needs to give it some extra pizazz. Buy some gold accent pieces or add in the gold details yourself. There are no wrong answers.

Add Some Texture

Texture is essential in any home décor, but with such simple and muted colors coming into fashion this spring, your home will look flat if you don’t add texture. Thankfully, this season brought us a lot of spring 2021 trend texture options.

Macrame and crochet are perfect for this spring and even the summer. They can make almost anything, like hammocks and plant hangers. You can find these textures in natural and light-colored materials, so it will check off your trending texture and color pallet boxes. If you are limited on space but still want to be on-trend, this is the way to go. It’s the easiest way to be trendy and functional.

Wicker and rattan are also making a comeback this spring. They play into the relaxed and neutral vibes of the season perfectly. You can find these textures mostly in furniture pieces, but there are other ways to incorporate them.

via GIPHY

Wall décor, baskets, trays, and other small wicker or rattan elements are a small and effortless way to bring this trend into your space. The best part is that thrift stores and second-hand stores are filled with these items. You don’t have to commit to buying an expensive piece to utilize this trend.

For anyone who doesn’t want such a stand-out texture in their home, you can consider adding some matte finishes. Reuse old décor and paint it a matte color or buy matte accents. Using matte finishes will give you a textured feel without all the fuss of a big texture like rattan.

The thing to remember when using these textures is to mix them together! Mix and match your macrame plant holder with rattan wall accents. Put your plant in a pot with a matte finish, and your look will be complete and stylish.

Consider Some Other Décor Changes

Leafy floral pieces have been in style for a while, and they still are. The only difference is that we once used to love a dark and waxy leaf, but now they’re being traded for lighter green and delicate leaves. Consider adding fake or real light green plants sporadically around your home to add some life to the space.

In the texture section, we talked about rattan and wicker being a big spring 2021 trend. We all got lucky because the easiest way to add those textures into your home is to add some baskets, and baskets are a huge trend this season too! You can find baskets to fit any aesthetic or color pallet, and they’re always functional.

Pottery is also making a big comeback. Mixing different sizes and shapes of pottery with your other décor and baskets will give your décor the depth it needs. You can also find this trend at a thrift store. Then you can paint them muted or matte colors to perfect the combination.

Speaking of functional, if you’re looking to make a significant change or looking to buy new furniture pieces, multi-functional pieces are the way to go. A piece can function as a seat and storage, or they can combine tables and chairs. Anything that is both beautiful, practical, and compact is perfect for this spring.

While the trend is based around the farmhouse aesthetic, it’s more about making your home comfortable and cozy. The natural woods and muted colors are meant to make you feel relaxed and at home in your space. Using different textures will tie the look together and help you achieve the relaxed and welcoming vibe you’re aiming for.

These spring 2021 trends are easy to implement within your current décor. You can also do a complete overhaul of your home décor if you wanted to! There is no better time than the spring to clean out and update your home. Happy spring decorating!

March 25, 2021
Beautiful Wedding DIY Ideas

With the price tag of weddings going up every year, it’s getting harder and harder to have your dream wedding on a reasonable budget. You can combat this by cutting your guest list, getting rid of expensive floral pieces, or by making some wedding DIYs!

Having a few wedding DIYs included in your wedding is a great way to save money while harnessing your creativity. It’s also a surefire way to know that they will be done on time and that they’ll be exactly what you want.

When you’re starting these DIYs, try to stay within your skill level. Don’t bite off more than you can chew. If you don’t think you can do an aspect of your DIY, ask for help! Always remember to practice before you make anything permanent and buy extras in case you mess up!

Whatever you do, don’t panic. Start early, and you’ll have plenty of time to create each item so it matches your vision. Trust yourself, and everything will work out!

Paper Goods

Any paper goods for your wedding is an excellent opportunity to do it yourself and save some cash. They’re easy to fix if you make a mistake, and they’re also easy to make. With the right computer program, it’ll only take a few minutes to create each item.

Programs like Canva have premade templates for wedding invitations and save the dates. It’s super easy to upload your photos and then plug them into the template. You can change the colors to match your color scheme and choose whatever fonts you like. Everything is completely customizable.

Once you’ve made your invites and save the dates, you can print them out at home, have them printed at a store, or have them printed somewhere else and shipped to your home. You can also have electronic invitations and send your design through email.

You can also create your ceremony playbill, seating cards, and thank you notes online! By doing them yourself, you can ensure that the colors, fonts, and style match perfectly. If you’re a bride that likes everything coordinated, this is the best way to do that! Plus, they’ll only cost as much as it will take to print and mail them.

via GIPHY

Centerpieces

Centerpieces are tricky but completely manageable as a wedding DIY. Creating your centerpieces will save you a boatload of cash. Floral centerpiece arrangements are great, but they’re expensive, and they can be boring. Everyone has floral centerpieces.

The best part of making your own is that you can create table features that perfectly fit your theme. They will be 100% unique and a conversation starter for all of your guests. A one of a kind centerpiece will impress everyone who attends your wedding.

First, you should create a drawing of what you want to make or at least have photos of what you’re drawing inspiration from. Once you know what you’re making, write out a list of everything you will need to make them and how many of each item.

via GIPHY

or example, I once went to an event that had a tea party theme. The hosts made each centerpiece out of ceramic teapots and cups. They added fake flowers, moss, and leaves inside and around the pots and cups. Each one was done differently. The color of the flowers matched the color of the teapot or cup it was in.

Once they were all finished and placed on the tables, they created a unique and cohesive feel for the event. They were all different, but you could tell they were all made to complement each other. These centerpieces would have cost over one hundred dollars each if they outsourced them. Since they were DIYed, it didn’t cost more than about $200 total.

By DIYing your centerpieces, you can save an unbelievable amount of money. More importantly, you won’t have generic or overdone decorations. You can put as much of your personality and theme into them as you want.

Wedding Favors

Making your wedding favors can be so much fun! You can also take this wedding DIY in a few different directions. The first and most basic DIY is to buy the item you want to give as a favor in bulk and then customize it yourself. If you were giving out little pots of honey, buy the honey and then add a personalized sticker and ribbon.

Don’t be afraid to hit the dollar store or Walmart to find the central part of your favor so you can buy it cheap and in bulk. The quality will probably be the same, and no one will notice or care where you bought them. Then, find your friend who has a machine that can make vinyl decals. Ask to use their machine to create a custom decal design for your favors.

You can make an adorable design with your names and wedding date on it or a fun saying. Cut out a tester and make sure you have the right size for your item. Consider personalizing shot glasses, mugs, wine glasses, or mason jars. The options are endless.

Add an extra special touch with ribbon, lace, or another accent. If you’re feeling generous, you add a snack or candy to your favor. All of your guests will want to take it home and cherish it for a lifetime.

If you’re really into doing a DIY wedding favor, head to the kitchen! Get out your baking tools and start cracking some eggs. You can make homemade candy, chocolate, or small baked goods. Food is the best wedding favor for a few reasons. One, it’s easy and affordable. Two, everyone will either take it home or eat it at your wedding. Three, if a few of your guests don’t take it, other guests will, or you’ll have a bunch of extra treats to take home.

Whatever you decide to DIY at your wedding, take your time and make a plan. Always make sure you have extras because mistakes are inevitable. Stay confident. You can do this! Ask for help if you need it, and you’ll have the best DIY wedding ever!

March 18, 2021
Wedding Day Emergency Bag Necessities

All bets are off on the day of your wedding, and you need to prepare yourself. Emergency bags, or kits, are the best way to prevent issues from ever happening. What goes into your bag will depend on what kind of bride you are and what purpose you want your bag to have.

At the very least, you, the bride, need an emergency bag. It’s almost a guarantee that you will need it. So it’s not forgotten, put the bag in your car or by your wedding dress. Make it so that it will be impossible to forget when you go to the ceremony.

via GIPHY

While you’re at it, make it your maid of honors responsibility. You have enough to worry about. You shouldn’t have to keep track of an emergency bag! Fill it full of the things you need, put it somewhere you won’t forget, and tell your maid of honor that it is now her job. Remembering a bag is an easy job for a bridesmaid too.

Now for the important bit, what goes into the emergency bag. The contents will vary from bride to bride, but the basics will be the same. Add or take away items so that your bag fits you and your specific wedding day needs.

Emergency Bag Contents

Let’s work our way from the top to the bottom. So, let’s start with hair. Throw extra bobby pins and hair ties into your wedding day emergency bag. Even if you have everyone’s hair professionally styled, pieces of hair can still fall, and once you’re on the dance floor, you or your bridal party might want to put your hair up. While we’re at it, include a small can of hair spray. I think that one is self-explanatory.

Next up is the face and all the makeup that comes with it. Q-tips can be a lifesaver once you start sweating and your eyeliner starts running. Tissues are essential as well, both for makeup malfunctions and tears. Every woman knows to keep their lipstick close and their lip-gloss closer. Keep some in your bag with any other makeup you’ll need for touchups throughout the night.

Now for the emergency bag items, you’ll need for your dress. Go to the store and get yourself a mini sewing kit. Make sure that white thread and safety pins are in the kit. Don’t let a small tear or a missing button ruin your photos. Add a stain stick, just in case you drop any food, or a guest gets too careless with the red wine.

Other emergency bag items can include lint rollers, deodorant or antiperspirant, clear nail polish, super glue, and fashion tape. Antiperspirant is better than deodorant, so no one sweats through their dress. Clear nail polish is only essential if someone in the wedding party is wearing tights or pantyhose. The superglue will come in handy if anyone breaks a heel or nail. Finally, it would help if you used the fashion tape whether or not there is an emergency. Use it to keep your straps and necklaces exactly where you want them. You’ll thank me when you see your wedding photos.

There are two health-related items that I think should be in every single wedding day emergency kit. Number one is a mini first aid kit. Include Band-Aids and things to prevent or treat blisters. It only takes an hour for a blister to start forming. The second item is menstrual products. Stress can impact your cycle, and your wedding day is not the time to be caught off guard. When it comes to your period, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Finally, other miscellaneous items that should make it into your emergency bag are snacks, water bottles, and a few phone chargers. Wedding days are long, drawn-out events for the bride, groom, and the wedding party. Snacks and water will help you make it through physically, and phone chargers will help you mentally. Phones will be dying left and right while people take photos, scroll through social media while waiting to get their makeup done, and play music to get everyone excited. Phone chargers are a must-have.

Emergency Basket For Guests

While you’re the star of the show, all of your guests are getting dressed up to celebrate you and your marriage. A simple way to show them how grateful you are that they came is with a guest emergency basket. They’re easy to make before your reception, and you can leave one in every bathroom. Your guests will be able to take whatever they need so they can feel confident on the dance floor.

A lot of the items are the same as ones that will be in your own emergency bag. The bag and baskets’ overlap makes buying these items more manageable and sometimes cheaper because you can buy in bulk. Items like bobby pins, safety pins, lint rollers, and menstrual products typically come in packs. Buy one package and split it up between your bag and the baskets.

If you’re feeling generous, consider including a sewing kit in your guest’s emergency basket. They could have wardrobe malfunctions too! If you don’t want to go for the full kit, I don’t blame you. Just make sure to add a bottle of clear nail polish. It will temporarily fix the most common outfit problems.

While you probably won’t need a whole first aid kit in the bathroom, Band-Aids are a good addition. Blisters always seem to be the unwelcomed guest at weddings, and a Band-Aid can help soothe the pain for the night.

Lastly, add some items that will make your guests feel and smell good. A bag of mints at the dollar tree will go a long way, especially if you have a lot of garlic in your dinner options. Lotion, perfume, and hair spray are also useful to include. It’s about keeping your guests happy and your dance floor smelling like roses.

via GIPHY

You’re All Set

Get out there and make your wedding day the best it can be. It’s better to have something and not need it. With this guide on wedding day emergency kits and guest emergency baskets, you and everyone else attending your wedding will have the best night of their lives.

March 11, 2021
How To Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day In 2021

St. Patrick’s Day is March 17th, 2021. It’s celebrated worldwide by both Irish and non-Irish people. It’s a day to celebrate Irish heritage, but most of the time, it’s an excuse to have fun! Last year, St Patrick’s Day was one of the last celebrations and holidays before the shutdowns began. Even though the pandemic is still in full swing, you can still have an exciting St Patty’s Day.

Typically, this day would be filled with parties, bar crawls, and parades that have people packed like sardines on the sidewalk. Of course, these events have been canceled. They were probably never planned. Still, some areas have taken it upon themselves to have a virtual celebration. Even if your area isn’t participating, you can always have a fantastic time in your own home.

via GIPHY

At Home

This holiday is all about the decorations and getting into the festive spirit. Deck your house out in green, cut out some four-leaf clovers from construction paper and cover your living room in them. If you want to get fancy, break out your crafting supplies and create some great DIY St Patty’s Day décor.

Clothing can also have an impact on your celebrations. You have to wear green, or you’re at risk of a St. Patty’s Day punch! Glitter is encouraged, and so is anything gold. To keep the spirit of the holiday alive, you should resemble a leprechaun or the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.

Adults Only

An adult celebration will look a lot different from a kid-friendly one, mainly because an adult St. Patrick’s Day is centered on drinking! We don’t condone excessive drinking, but when it comes to this holiday, why not live and let live!

If you’re typically a person who goes on a bar crawl, there is an alternative that will give you a similar experience without worrying about how you’re getting home. You can have a beer tasting night! Your local liquor or beverage shop is going to have a section of locally brewed beer. Start there.

Take your time and see if there are any that you would like to try. There could be a fantastic brew hidden among the packs of local beer. Pick as many as you want but do your best to switch it up. Don’t get four types of IPAs. That’s so boring. Pick up a lager, porter, stout, and a beer that you would typically never try on your own. The more experimental you get, the more it will feel like a bar crawl.

If you want to try this but buying several packs of beer is too expensive, see if a store in your area has a build your own six-pack. You can create a six-pack of single bottles or cans of beer. These sales are usually in a refrigerated section of the store. They might not have all the local beer available, but it’s a great way to try all the different types of domestic brews without the commitment of an entire case.

If beer isn’t your thing, head over to Pinterest and find a green cocktail or mocktail that you can make! Make it in a big pitcher, or create the drinks one at a time. There are no wrong answers. Bonus points if you add green or gold sugar to the rim!

If you’re going to be drinking, you can’t forget the snacks. Any snacks will do, but bar food is the best. I’m talking frozen food, super processed, and deep-fried. It is a holiday, after all; you might as well act like it!

Kid-Friendly

Crafting is a great kid-friendly way to spend St. Patrick’s Day. Fingerpaint and draw some shamrocks. Then get out the non-toxic glue and cover those bad boys with glitter. It’ll get messy, but the kids will have an amazing time. It’s also an excellent opportunity to spend some quality time with your kids.

Once the crafting is complete, make some popcorn and drizzle white chocolate (that you’ve dyed green) all over it. It’s a semi-healthy snack that will get the kids set up to watch a St. Patty’s Day movie. If you’re having a hard time finding an on-theme film, Disney’s The Luck of the Irish is a classic!

If you want to get down and dirty with your kids, take a tooth fairy approach and get them to pretend that leprechauns are real! Leave little green footprints on your kitchen floor. Hide chocolate gold coins around the house for the kids to find. As long as you’re having a good time, they will too.

In Your Community

All the parades are canceled, and rightfully so, but the urge to celebrate is hard to get rid of. Thankfully, your local news or website could tell you a lot about this year’s St. Patty’s Day festivities. Some are going virtual! There are concerts, webinars, and other events being held virtually! You won’t have as many options, but they are out there.

St. Patrick’s Day 5K runs are being transformed into virtual 5Ks! You can run the entire race or part of it from the comfort of your own neighborhood or treadmill. Some Irish heritage concerts are being streamed online to enjoy from your couch. Since they’re all virtual, you don’t have to be in the area that’s sponsoring them to enjoy it!

If you can’t find anything that interests you, take a suggestion from this post and get some of your friends and family involved. When you’re planning your at-home bar crawl, send your friends the list of the beer you bought. Call them up on Zoom and taste all the beers together. Then, you can stay online and watch a movie or just have a great time with your friends.

via GIPHY

There are a lot of great ways to keep the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day alive, even if you can’t maintain all of your usual traditions. Stay strong and enjoy the day at home this year. Hopefully, next year we will all be on a crowded parade route hoping that no one spills cheap beer on us.

March 4, 2021
Wedding Venues: Things To Consider

When the big day arrives, you’ll want to ensure you have the best venue possible. The problem is that the “perfect wedding venue” looks different for everyone! You have to take your budget, guest list, wants, needs, and many other factors into consideration as you begin the search for a wedding venue.

Your Budget

First things first, the dreaded budget. Your venue will probably be the most expensive section of your budget, rivaled only by food and drinks. When looking at your potential wedding venues, you should already have a financial plan in mind, but pay close attention to what each venue offers.

Venue prices can include a wide variety of things, so don’t count one out just because it’s above your venue budget. It’s possible to stumble across venues that include food, accommodations, bars, and other add-ons into their venue price.

Most places will have a document or PDF outlining their prices and what it includes. Please read them carefully! If you let a price tag scare you off, you could miss out on your perfect venue.

Your Theme

The theme of your wedding will probably dictate what type of location you’re going to have your ceremony and reception. Rustic and casual brides will be looking at outdoor or barn venues to add to their theme, but more luxurious and classic brides will be looking for churches and traditional venues.

You’ll also have other brides who are looking for a more unique and one-of-a-kind experience. They might be looking at libraries or massive private estates to rent out. Bowling alleys, baseball stadiums, and botanic gardens are also great examples of non-traditional venues.

All of these places will come with their challenges and policies. Of course, you’ll want your venue to match your theme as best as possible, but don’t let the important things slide for an aesthetic. Renting a venue with one bathroom and no heat in the middle of winter won’t be cute, even if it perfectly fits your theme.

The Guest List

There are two huge factors in regards to your guest list that you’ll need to consider in your search for a venue. The first is obvious. How many people are you inviting to your wedding and how many people do you think will actually attend?

Whether the number is large or small, it will have a significant impact on your final wedding venue. When a few hundred people are going to a wedding, there needs to be space to accommodate them. If only 40 or 50 people are going, a large venue will feel empty. The space should be big enough to fit all of your guests but small enough to feel intimate.

The second thing that should be on your mind should be whether or not any of your guests need handicap accommodations. Outdoor weddings can be challenging to access if they’re on uneven ground or if wheelchair access is not available.

If any of your loved ones could require a more accessible venue, this is something you should ask when looking at your potential venues. This is incredibly important, especially if someone who needs accommodations is in your immediate family or bridal party.

The Venue

Each venue will have its pros and cons, but all that really matters is how you make them work for you. Before you go, know what venue features you find to be the most important and which ones would be nice to have but are not necessary. Once you have your priorities straight, you’ll be able to weed through your venue choices with ease.

On-site accommodations for the wedding party can be really important to some brides. The idea of getting ready at a different location and then having to travel to your ceremony can be extremely stressful. If getting dressed at your venue is a must-have on your wedding day, get a tour of the dressing rooms when you visit your venue.

Always ask about decoration set up and take down when you’re venue hunting. How long do you have to set up before the wedding? Will the cleaning crew take your decorations down, or is that your job? If the vision of your wedding includes a lot of décor and personalization, you should be prepared to take it down the night of or have it all thrown out. If neither of those options works for you, that is something you’ll have to mention to your venue.

Outside Venue Policies

This is a big one! Every venue will have a different list of vendors that they recommend you work with and a list of different rules and regulations for outside vendors. Some venues will only work with certain vendors, and other venues are much looser with the rules. Neither is necessarily bad. It depends on what you want!

Brides who have a particular vision of their wedding will probably want to choose all of their own vendors. They’ll be able to shop around and choose whatever type of food and entertainment they want. This allows them to customize every aspect of their wedding, but it also comes with some drawbacks.

These drawbacks include figuring out how to transport the food and equipment, the setup, and other logistics issues. Your venue might not have a kitchen, which means your food will have to be warmed up a different way. Cakes can get damaged mid-transport, and other unpredictable things can happen when you work with outside vendors.

When your venue has a strict list of vendors they work with, there are also several pros and cons. The biggest pro is that they are extremely familiar with your venue. If they are being recommended to you, chances are they have tons of experience and practice perfecting catering to your venue. They already have a good working relationship with your venue, and there should be little to no logistical issues.

Of course, the big issue here is that your options for food and entertainment will be extremely limited. If you find the perfect venue, but they only allow certain vendors, see if you can do a taste test for all the food before putting down a deposit. Look online for reviews on both the venue and vendors. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

via GIPHY

Finding your venue can be a stress-provoking task, but it’s not impossible. Stay within your budget and consider every venue. Search through your town, different websites, and social media for recommendations. While a venue won’t make or break your wedding, a fantastic wedding venue can really add value to your big day.

February 25, 2021
How To Choose The Best Wedding Guest Attire

The more weddings you attend, the more wedding fashion errors you will see. To be fair, wedding attire can be tricky. There are a lot of unwritten rules and expectations. Even if you have a great wedding outfit, the season or venue of the wedding can make or break it.

Sometimes even wearing the wrong color can make you stick out like a sore thumb, but don’t worry. Follow this guide, and you’ll blend in beautifully.

via GIPHY

Consider The Where

When choosing an outfit for a wedding, the location = is very important. The venue will impact how casual you can dress and what kind of dress you should be looking for.

Your outfit is going to look very different if the ceremony is held in a church than it would if the ceremony is in a backyard. Church attire usually means that you will need to find a full-coverage dress. You don’t have to look like a nun, but if you would wear it on a night out, leave it in your closet.

On the other hand, your club dress might be an excellent option for a Vegas wedding. Sundresses aren’t appropriate for church, but they’re a fantastic choice for a backyard or outdoor wedding. No matter what the venue is, take the ceremony and reception location into consideration when picking an outfit.

At the end of the day, the outfit you wear might not be your style, but this isn’t your wedding. Your outfit isn’t just about looking your best. It is also about showing respect for the bride, groom, and possibly the location. Don’t take the spotlight away from the bride, especially if it’s for all the wrong reasons.

Consider The When

When the wedding is happening also has a giant impact on your wardrobe. Spring, summer, and fall weddings are usually pretty easy to dress for, but winter weddings are a whole different ball game unless you live in the south.

Spring weddings are great because a pretty floral dress is always appropriate and always available. Make sure to wear a style of clothing that fits well and won’t go wild when you start dancing. The same rules apply to the summer but try to be mindful of what fabrics will show sweat stains and which ones will hide them.

You will want to work with a darker color pallet and heavier materials for autumn and winter weddings. In the fall, you can get away with a lighter material and even some lighter colors. It’s tricky because what will be appropriate at the beginning of the fall will no longer be appropriate when we’re about to enter into winter.

As it gets colder, the colors you wear will probably get darker, and the material will be heavier. It’s a difficult task to wear a short flowy dress in the dead of winter. Not only will you look a bit out of place, but you will freeze when you’re walking to your car.

If you’re unlucky, parts of the ceremony or reception, like photos or send-offs, could be outside. The point is, don’t dress for the one or two hours you’ll be on the dance floor. Dress like you’ll be out in the cold taking pictures for 45 minutes.

If the venue is fancy enough, a floor-length dress is perfect. Velvet dresses are a gorgeous and warm option for winter weddings, and you’ll be able to find a ton of options to choose from. At the very least, I suggest investing in a formal winter coat.

via GIPHY

An Important List Of “Don’ts”

Everyone should know this rule, but it is sometimes ignored, so let’s talk about it. Never, under any circumstances, wear white. Let me be super clear, that white doesn’t exclusively mean a completely white dress.

Don’t wear white means don’t wear an ivory dress. If you have a white dress with a cute pattern on it, save it for another day. Any light gray or tan dresses that could be confused at a glance as white should also be left at home. Basically, if the dress is more than half white or could look like a white dress in certain lighting, do not wear it.

I know that seems like a bit much, but it is best to stay far away from anything that could be considered bridal. This rule also applies to any other wedding events like engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, and bridal showers.

In addition to not wearing white, do your best not to upstage the bride. This can mean a lot of different things. Don’t look too sexy or fancy. While it is a formal event, a skimpy black dress or a huge pink princess gown is not an appropriate outfit option.

Honestly, this isn’t the time to splurge and get your hair done or wear an expensive dress. Typically, the rule is not to upstage the bride, but I also think it’s a bad move to upstage the bridal party. I’m not saying you should show up looking bad but be mindful not to outshine anyone. Wear the new shoes and accessories, do your makeup, and look beautiful, but you don’t have to look like you just walked out of a magazine ad. You know what I mean?

For The Men

Men always have it so easy when it comes to events like these. If it’s a black-tie event, they have to wear a tux, but if it’s not, then a nice pair of pants and a button-up is the way to go. When the event is more formal, a jacket is usually expected. No matter what, always wear a tie. It is a formal event, after all, even if it’s in a backyard. Use your best judgment on what colors would be appropriate to wear.

I know some of these rules and suggestions seem slightly over the top, but they’re really not. It’s easier to find a classy, comfortable outfit than you think. Follow these guidelines, and you’ll thank yourself when you see the photos from the event and always, ALWAYS, follow the dress code on the invitation.

February 18, 2021
Wedding Trends In 2021

The 2020 pandemic changed weddings as we know them, and honestly, I don’t think that’s a bad thing! It’s about time weddings had a major update. Hopefully, these 2021 wedding trends are here to stay. It’s time for lowkey and intimate weddings to become the norm.

via GIPHY

Lowkey Weddings

Due to the pandemic’s new regulations, couples are opting for smaller and more intimate weddings. COVID put things into perspective for a lot of people. The couple is only inviting the people that are closest to them. If it’s a choice between a big flashy wedding or having your loved ones there, the loved ones win every time.

Some of these lowkey weddings are even being called “micro weddings.” The smaller guest list actually allows you to do more at your wedding. It gives you an opportunity to get more of what you want. If you’re paying for fewer people, you might be able to afford a photo booth or another luxury you cut out of your budget.

With a smaller number of people, you can also do more for each individual guest to make them feel special and welcomed. Wedding boxes or gift bags are a great example of this. They’re filled with comfort items like socks and candles as well as necessary items like Advil and a water bottle. They’re adorable and a fantastic way to thank your guests for coming, especially if they had to travel a long distance.

If you’re super particular about your wedding’s aesthetic, I don’t blame you if you are, a smaller guest list will also allow you to set a specific dress code. Ask your guests to dress in your wedding colors or in all black. Doing this can give you, your partner, and your bridal party a chance to stand out from the crowd. This can be really helpful, especially in group photos.

Elopement

While a lowkey or micro wedding allows you to focus more on your guests, eloping will help you focus more on yourselves as a couple. We’ve been seeing a lot of people saying bye-bye to mainstream weddings in 2021 and getting eloped instead. There are several reasons for this influx of elopements.

The first is obvious. Because of COVID, couples want to keep their ceremonies private and socially distanced. Getting married now allows them to have all the benefits of being married while saving the opportunity to party at a later date; that’s post-COVID.

Some of these elopements have been live-streamed or recorded for anyone who wasn’t invited or couldn’t make it. This is a beautiful idea because then you can have your wedding on the top of a mountain or another unique location, and everyone would still be able to be a part of the experience.

Sequel weddings have also followed elopements. We saw a lot of sequel weddings in 2020, and they are continuing into 2021. The first wedding is generally small, like an elopement or a backyard wedding. Then the second, or sequel, the wedding is the big main event held at a later date. I love when couples elope and then have their sequel wedding on their first anniversary. It’s such a special way to celebrate your first year as a married couple.

Eco Friendly

Eco-friendly weddings are super in this year, and I don’t see this trend going away any time soon. Being eco-friendly can come in several different forms, especially when it comes to a wedding, but here are some easy ways to be kind to the environment on your wedding day.

Digital invitations are a great start, and they can be really beneficial for the couple. Digital invitations mean digital RSVPs. You won’t have to worry about someone forgetting their name on the RSVP card or losing the invitation altogether. It will be on their computer or cell phone until the wedding is over.

Any favors you have out can also be eco friendly, or you can choose to support a small business. I’m sure you can find a way to do both! If you decide to do paper invitations or place cards, you can use recycled paper. It’s good for the planet, and the aesthetic is incredible. Finally, don’t throw rice or non-compostable things. Throw biodegradable confetti or birdseed! It’ll still look good in photos, but it won’t hurt the local ecosystem.

The Décor

This year’s décor trends are quite different from one another, but they are still both so beautiful. I’m glad they’re so different because that means you will be able to stay on-trend no matter what your style is.

First, greenery is here, and it’s here to stay. Brides who are going down this path are staying away from bright colors or any color at all. The lush greens are being paired with whites, creams, and neutral colors. We’re seeing twinkle lights and other intentional lighting designs being used to emphasize the greenery.

The other trend is the exact opposite. Couples are using bold and bright colors to bring their wedding to life. Big blocks of color allow for the bride to stand out in her white dress. Living room items, like lux couches and chairs, are being used as photo props to create a more elevated look. At the end of the day, it’s all about the vibe you’re going for.

The Dress

Finally, dresses in 2021 are following the informal trend. Comfortable boho dresses have been flying off the racks. These dresses might look informal at a glance, but the lace details and embroidery take these dresses to a new level.

Sleeves are also a heavy hitter this year. It doesn’t matter if the sleeves are fabric or lace. They are going to be beaded and detailed. The designs on these sleeves are no joke. They complete the entire dress.

No matter what path you decide to take when planning your wedding, just remember that you can’t go wrong. It’s your style, your aesthetic, and your wedding. If you want bold colors, do it! If you want every single one of your guests to dress in white so you can wear the black wedding dress of your dreams, do that too. Wedding trends in 2021 are all about what the couple wants, so make sure you follow the trend and have the wedding of your dreams.

February 11, 2021
How To Make Valentine’s Day Special In 2021

This year’s Valentine’s Day will look different, just like every other holiday or special occasion in the past 365 days. That means you need to put in extra thought, time, and effort to make it special. Going out to a fancy restaurant isn’t going to feel as romantic or glamorous when your mask smears your lipstick. You might need to make adjustments to your usual plans.

Now, this is when you either read this article by yourself and take some inspiration from it or send it to your significant other. There’s no shame in giving your partner a few hints. Either way, these tips will help you have the best Valentine’s Day possible.

Gifts

The fact is that we center this holiday around gifts and romantic gestures. The latter will be covered in the next section, so let’s focus on the gifts for now. You can always go big and hit it out of the park with an expensive piece of jewelry, but that’s not always possible. It’s also a high standard to set for the next few years.

Instead, the gift you give your partner should hit them right in the feelings. Don’t focus on the red hearts and drug store flowers. Instead, focus on them as a person and then add Valentine’s flair. This will not only make you look thoughtful, but it is also going to impress your partner.

For example, if they stare at computer screens all day, you can get them a nice pair of blue light blocking glasses. Choosing a pair that they love will show them that you pay attention to their style and daily needs. It’s also an out of the box item that people might not think to buy for themselves. Those items make the best gifts.

Gifts don’t always have to be physical or something you paid for. Take a deep dive into your hobbies and see what you can make. The most romantic thing you can ever get your partner is something that you’ve created.

Writing a song or painting a picture for them are good examples, but almost any hobby or interest can produce a romantic gift. If you can’t think of how to turn your hobby into a present, write your significant other a poem or letter instead. It will be cheesy and romantic, but I guarantee you that they will cherish it forever.

Then, once you have the main gift, you can always supplement it with the stereotypical candy, flowers, and teddy bears. Especially the candy. Everyone wants chocolate on Valentine’s Day.

Romantic Gestures

Okay, this is when you have the opportunity to show off and make a memory. Your options of what you can do outside of your home will vary depending on where you live, but what you can do inside will stay the same, so let’s start there.

Indoors

Let’s begin with the stereotypical but still romantic gestures. The one that comes to mind is that movie or TV scene when rose petals are thrown on the floor leading to a beautiful dinner. Typically candles, flowers, and home cooking are involved.

It’s almost a guarantee that your partner has dreamed of this actually happening to them. So why not make their dreams come true? It could be challenging to pull off because the holiday is on a Sunday this year, but it’s not impossible.

Send them out in the afternoon to go shopping for a few hours. You can also make an appointment to get their nails or hair done when you want to set up. This can throw them off their game, especially if you say that the appointment is the gift. They won’t be expecting the big surprise when they get home!

If you prefer something more low-key, just make a romantic homecooked meal. Make your partners favorite appetizer, dinner, and dessert, or make it with them! Cooking together can be very romantic, and it can also a fantastic bonding experience.

Valentine’s Day, especially when you’re staying at home, the most important thing is to spend quality time together. The meal, movie, atmosphere, or anything else won’t matter if you aren’t giving your partner individual and meaningful attention.

Outside The Home

If you are entirely compelled to go out for Valentine’s this year, safety and isolation should be your number one concern. Whatever you do, don’t hope that restaurants will have tables available when you show up that night. Make a reservation well in advance! Also, ask about their policies and what precautions the restaurant is taking to keep everyone safe.

Tables fill up quickly every year, and now, because of COVID, there will be even fewer tables to go around. Most regulations have cut seating in half so that the restaurant can spread out the tables as far as possible. Don’t get caught without a reservation, trust me.

If you live in the north half of the country, celebrating at home or a restaurant is probably your only option. It’s too cold to eat outdoors, and everything might be covered in snow by then! Still, if you live in an area of the country where the weather is warm all year round, you still have plenty of options available to you.

Daytime picnics are the peak of romantic gestures. Wear comfortable but cute outfits, break out a bedsheet and eat in a park. The meal doesn’t even have to be some fancy and over the top event. Buy a sandwich from a local shop on your way to the park or grab a coffee at Starbucks.

via GIPHY

I could say it a million times, and it’ll still be relevant; Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be expensive to be meaningful! You don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars to have a special day, even in a pandemic. Being thoughtful and compassionate will always be more important than the price tag. I hope you have a memorable and safe Valentine’s Day filled with love for you and your partner.

February 4, 2021
How To Honeymoon In 2021

You’ve gotten married during the pandemic. Now, it’s time for you to honeymoon during it too. Right off the bat, it seems overwhelming and nearly impossible to have the honeymoon of your dreams, but there’s still hope.

With the right idea, a lot of planning, and some research, you can still have a fantastic honeymoon. It might even be better than what you would have originally planned. The reality of the situation is that it’s still COVID season, but that doesn’t have to stop you from having fun.

via GIPHY

Honeymoon Ideas

You have a few great options for a honeymoon in 2021, but no matter what you choose, you should try and limit your interactions with other people as much as possible. The best way to do this is by selecting an all-inclusive package.

This will prevent your credit cards, cash, and other items from being handled by other people when you go out to eat or drink. Limiting cross-contamination from you to employees and other guests is very important when traveling this year.

If your trip doesn’t have an all-inclusive package, buy food and supplies before you get to your destination. Keep snacks, microwaveable meals, and drinks in your room. Bring everything you’ll need so you don’t have to go to the store unnecessarily.

Keep It Private

Honeymoons are the best time to splurge and stay at that expensive hotel. Go one step further and achieve the ultimate level of privacy in a private villa at a resort. Villas are usually all-inclusive, and you are alone for 90% of your trip.

This is amazing, not only because of COVID but also because you’ll want to spend that one-on-one time with your partner anyway. A do not disturb sign won’t be necessary because no one would disturb you in the first place.

If villas aren’t your style, there are more casual ways to keep your honeymoon private. For example, there are sites and parks where you can go glamping. It might not sound like a great option at first, but I beg you to look into it!

The only way it’s similar to camping is that you can have a fire, and you’re probably going to be in the woods. That’s it. Glamping has amenities, bathrooms, and even cable and internet in some areas. I honestly don’t even know why they call it glamping; it can be more luxurious than some hotels.

Another private honeymoon option is to go on a self-guided road trip. Road tripping is also one of the safest travel options right now because you don’t have to fly anywhere or be in a closed-off space with strangers.

Plus, road trips will give you a considerable level of freedom regarding what you do. Stop at all the big attractions or take your time to wander all the small towns you pass. Google will be your best friend when you’re deciding where to head next.

Hit up all the romantic spots and watch the sunset from every state you visit. Any couple seeking a ton of quality time on your honeymoon should consider a road trip, even if it only lasts a week. I think it’s also important to say that this is also a very affordable option for newlyweds on a budget.

Save It For 2022

It stinks to say, but another option is just to put off your honeymoon until there are no restrictions. If the big showstopper of a honeymoon is important to you, chances are you’re not going to get it in 2021. Even if places are open, a lot of the extras aren’t available.

Here’s my proposal, have a minimoon in 2021 and your big honeymoon in 2022. I think this is a great idea, with or without the pandemic. Weddings are expensive, and so are honeymoons. Give your wallet a break by taking a small minimoon after your wedding.

Visit that destination that’s only a few hours away from your home. Wander into the next state, eat at some of the restaurants, and visit the local shops. I’m willing to bet there is a city near you that’s on your bucket list. Minimoons are more of a day or overnight trip, not a full-blown weeklong vacation.

Since honeymoons in 2021 are going to look different than any other year, it’s worth mentioning that it’s not uncommon to take your honeymoon on your first or even fifth anniversary. My point is, even if you don’t have the big trip this year, you have the rest of your lives. You won’t miss out on anything. It’ll all be there once the world is open again.

Stay At Home

I’m going to keep this short because I know it’s not what you want to hear, but I have to mention it. Staycations can be very romantic and give you unforgettable memories. It’s the safest honeymoon on this list because the risk is almost non-existent.

If you want to get out of your house, rent a hotel room or home in your area. I can’t blame you for craving a change of scenery, but that craving doesn’t mean you have to fly across the county. Seek out unique homes for rent or luxurious hotel rooms. It should scratch that itch.

Things To Consider

Of course, there are some things you should think about before you leave. For instance, what regulations your state and the place your visiting have in place. This is super important because you need to know if you’ll be forced to quarantine at your destination or when you come home.

Try not to make your trip too long, especially if you’re planning on traveling internationally. Regulations and quarantines can change in an instant. Have a backup plan, so you don’t get trapped in a foreign nation.

On the other hand, many countries, destinations, airlines, and hotels are giving travelers major discounts. Even Disney is offering some cheap rooms to attract visitors. In this way, you lucked out. Look into several airlines and hotels to get the best bang for your buck.

Safety needs to be a priority if you honeymoon in 2021. Stay within your and your partner’s comfort zone. Don’t travel anywhere that feels unsafe and get a COVID test before leaving and coming back. As always, don’t forget to wear a mask and always wash your hands. Stay safe and have a good trip!

via GIPHY

January 28, 2021
Keeping Up With Your New Year’s Resolutions

It’s that time of the new year where everyone is trying to better themselves and improve their life. Some are successful, but most aren’t. That’s because 90% of new year’s resolutions are based in idealism instead of reality.

Please, keep your promise to yourself so you can finish 2021 with all of your goals achieved. Here are some helpful tips to get you on the right path to a successful resolution and new year.

Set A Reasonable Goal

First of all, don’t bite off more than you can chew. Pick one or maybe two goals to aim for and stop there. Anyone with a laundry list of new year’s resolutions will never be successful because they’re trying to do too much. It’s easy to get overwhelmed when starting new goals.

Choose an achievable goal that is completely reasonable for you to attain by the end of 2021. Have you done anything similar before that you can compare to this new resolution? The best goals are the ones where you’re building or improving on a skill you already have.

If you’re already a runner, try to increase your speed. Maybe you have a hobby you love, like crochet, but you have difficulty getting the stitches right. Improving on a skill that you already have is the best way to ensure your resolution is successful.

Don’t set an unattainable goal, and remember that unattainable looks different for everyone. For example, just because your friend was able to run a 5K in less than a year doesn’t mean you’ll be able to. Keep your goals in the realm of possibility, and if you reach them faster than you thought you would, that’s great!

via GIPHY

Create A Plan

Research your goal so you know exactly how to achieve the result you wanted. Read the stories of other people who have completed this goal or are experts in the field and take some of their advice. It’s okay not to know everything, but when the internet is at your disposal, you might as well use it to your advantage.

After you’ve learned as much about the topic as possible and the best ways to improve, set smaller and even more attainable goals. Make them weekly or monthly to help you stay on your timeline. These mini-goals should help you get closer and closer to your big goal. These mini-goals could look like reading a chapter a week, knocking a few points off your golf game, or anything small as long as it builds over time.

Write these mini-goals down for the entire year and create a tracking sheet. If you like bullet journaling or being creative, make it look pretty and exciting, so you’ll want to continue on your journey, and you’ll be less likely to lose or throw out your tracking sheet. Check off each of the mini-goals you’ve accomplished so you can see how far you’ve come.

via GIPHY

How To Stay On Track

Don’t compare yourself to anyone you see on social media. Most people don’t post the hardships they face or their failures. They only post their successes. Social media is just a highlight reel of what’s really going on in their life, and it’s incredibly unfair for you to compare your real life to someone’s brightest moments.

It’s really easy to doom scroll through Instagram and be hard on yourself when you’re not where you want to be in life. It’s important to remember that your journey is amazing and completely unique to you. Plus, someone out there would love to be where you are; you are someone else’s ideal.

That being said, social media can also help you keep on track! Post your goal on social media and make it public. Make a highlights reel on Instagram or a TikTok series and share your journey. Everyone will love to see your progress, and making it so public will help keep you accountable. You might even find a few friends on a similar path to help you along the way.

If social media isn’t your thing, get your friends and family involved. Send out a mass text and tell everyone what your resolution is and how you plan on accomplishing it. Let them know any way they can help you along the way or help keep you on track.

Finally, a rewards system is an excellent incentive for more challenging goals. For every five mini-goals or every month, reward yourself. Get dinner from your favorite restaurant, get something off your Wishlist, or put money aside for a larger purchase when you reach your final goal.

Give Yourself A Break

This is the most important aspect of reaching a goal or fulfilling a new year’s resolution; you have to be kind to yourself. Being hard on yourself or being extra strict won’t get you very far and might even make you give up on your goal sooner rather than later.

If you miss a day or even a week of tasks to reach your goal, you have to remember that it’s okay. Life gets in the way, and missing a little bit of time doesn’t mean you’re a failure. Even if you’re a little bit worse when you get back to it, the most important thing is that you started again.

If you miss a goal or you’re not getting better at the speed you want, don’t panic and don’t give up. Successful people will tell you that the only thing that matters is that you keep trying. Never give up, and you will never fail. In case you find yourself not hitting your mini-goals as quickly as you would like, keep going. Just reevaluate and continue at a slower pace.

Finally, it was said once, but it’s worth repeating, never compare yourself to others. It doesn’t matter who they are, where they started, or where they are now. You’re on your own journey, and their journey should not affect yours. Reach your new year’s resolution for you and no one else.

via GIPHY

January 21, 2021