Hitchswitch-Blog

Tag: Maiden Name Change

  • 7 Fun Activities to Do with the Kids This Fall

    7 Fun Activities to Do with the Kids This Fall

     

    The official beginning of fall is just around the corner. And with the change in seasons comes a change in weather. Soon, we will enjoy some colder weather and see the trees begin to transition. Cooler days and the leaves changing mean a new perspective for local walks and hikes. Plus, it is a great excuse to snuggle up with a soft throw blanket, a good book, and some hot chocolate. Autumn produce, pumpkin spice, apple picking, and fall festivals are all happening soon enough as well. 

    We are here to recommend some fun activities to do with your kids this fall. From crafting to baking to outdoor walks, these events and things to do will have you and your family enjoying the unique things that make fall such a cool, cozy time of the year in no time!

     

    Go Apple Picking at an Orchard

     

    Fall is a great time to go apple picking. For a lot of places, there are different apple varieties in season from August through November. Apple picking is a scenic activity and a perfect way for you and your kids to disconnect from the world for a little while. Do some research and find an orchard within driving distance of your home. Many orchards will list admission prices on their website, with admission including a picking bag for your apples. You can also check to see what apple varieties will be ripe for the picking when you plan to go if you have a preferred type of apple. Wander the orchard with your kids and pick your favorite apples along the way. When you get home, you will have plenty of apples for baking, applesauce, apple cider, and of course, simply enjoying the taste of a fresh-picked apple.

     

    Make Your Own Halloween Costumes

    Halloween is a thrilling fall holiday with spooky fun, candy, and great movies to watch. If you and your kids like to go out treat-or-treating, making your own Halloween costumes is an awesome fall activity to do together. Everyone can choose what they want to be and make costumes DIY-style. Depending on the costume, you may be able to repurpose existing outfits and accessorize them accordingly. Look online on sites like Pinterest for inspiration and ideas. Be prepared to make a trip or two to the craft store for this one!

     

    Take a Hike in the Park

     

    Another great way to enjoy the season with your kids is to take a hike in the park. Choose a weekend morning and your favorite park or preserve. Bundle up accordingly and head out on a refreshing hike. See all the fall colors displayed on the leaves all around you. You can make a game out of finding the prettiest fall leaves to take home with you. Pack a picnic lunch and dine outside amongst the foliage for a memorable fall day. 

     

    Make a Craft Out of Fall Leaves

    If you are some ways through the season and your kids have amassed a small collection of fall leaves, consider instituting a craft day for them! Fall leaves are great craft materials because there are so many things that you can do with them. You can glue them onto paper for a pretty collage, string them together for banners and decor, or paint and press them onto paper for cool prints. There are tons of fun options for this low-budget, creative activity to enjoy with the kids. 

     

    Attend a Local Fall Festival

    Most cities and towns will host an event to celebrate the season, like a fall festival. Check your local calendar and see when you and your kids will be able to attend one. This fall activity is full of entertaining things to do. Fall festivals usually include food and craft vendors, live entertainment, and games for the kids, so make sure you don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate fall with your community.

    Bake an Apple-Based Dessert

     

    Whether or not you make your way to an orchard, your kids will love assisting you in baking a delicious fall dessert. There are plenty of desserts that feature one of fall’s favorite fruits. From apple crisp to apple cobbler to classic apple pie, there are tons of options to choose from. Gather all the ingredients you will need for your chosen recipe and get to baking! Kid-friendly tasks include washing apples, rolling out pie dough, and taste-testing! 

    Visit a Pumpkin Patch

    Nothing says fall like visiting a pumpkin patch. These are cool places to go to, with tons of pumpkins to choose from. Walk the patch with your kids, and make sure to take some pictures together – pumpkin patches are awesome for photo opts! Everybody can pick out their own pumpkins for carving jack-o’-lanterns to display outside for Halloween. You can also take one home for more fall-inspired baking fun. Pumpkin pies, pumpkin bread, and pumpkin muffins are just a few tasty treats that come to mind here. 

     

  • 6 Rainy Day Date Ideas

    6 Rainy Day Date Ideas

    You might feel deterred from leaving your house when you see rain clouds rolling in. The crummy weather usually equates to staying indoors. Maybe you had a date with your partner planned that no longer seems feasible because it was supposed to take place outside. Maybe you’ve already had a few days of rain and are starting to feel cooped up at home. Either way, we’re here to suggest some awesome rainy day date ideas that will get you and your date out to some cool places where you can have fun and stay nice and dry! Pack your umbrella and/or raincoat, but once you reach one of the fun venues listed below, you won’t need it. 

    One of the great things about many of the places on this list is that they likely have dining options, so you can enjoy a snack or meal and drinks with your date for a full and delicious date experience. Whether you prefer a quiet day strolling through a museum, a rousing night at a karaoke bar, or something in between, we’ve got some perfect options for you and your date to have a fun time, despite the rainy weather. 

    Head Over to Your Local Bowling Alley

    Bowling is a classic sport and recreational activity where you and your date can compete against each other to see who will be the new bowling champ! It is a fun rainy date idea because bowling alleys are large, indoor venues – often with fun lighting and music. These places have really created enhanced experiences over the past few years, many offering full bars and big snacking menus. 

    So, head on over with your date, rent a couple of tasteful pairs of bowling shoes, pick out your neon bowling balls, and get a game started! Order some drinks and tasty snacks, and let your competitive nature shine while you try for a strike. You might just surprise yourself!

    Visit a Local Museum

    Museums are beautiful and educational spaces that are perfect for visiting on rainy days. Most museums are large buildings with plenty of exhibits and displays that will have you joyfully wandering around for hours, learning about topics that interest you. A great thing about museums is that there are so many to choose from. If you and your date are interested in science, check out a local science center or planetarium. If you like art, visit an art museum. History? Stop by a history museum! 

    Many large museums have restaurants and cafés open during their operating hours. After you and your date have worked up an appetite exploring one of these large and informative buildings, head over to the museum’s restaurant or café for coffee and pastries or a more substantial meal.

    Play a Round of Indoor Mini-Golf

    Like bowling, mini-golf is a fun recreational activity to play with your date. Often, you can find indoor mini-golf venues in your area, which are great for rainy day dates! They may also have cool themes, like glow-in-the-dark or black light mini-golf. Once you get a putter and golf ball, get ready to tee off and venture through interesting, themed courses that will challenge your golfing skills. Up the ante by having the loser buy dinner or ice cream afterward for an exciting, high-stakes competition.

    Make Your Way Through an Escape Room

    Escape rooms are fun and challenging activities that lock you and your date in a themed room for a set amount of time (usually an hour), where you will work through a series of clues to solve. Your answers should lead you closer and closer over your time to unlocking the door and escaping the room. Partner with your date over these challenges and see your minds at work during this entertaining rainy day date. 

    Stop by a Karaoke Bar

    Karaoke bars are exciting indoor places where you and your date can enjoy a full bar and a full catalog of awesome music to sing your hearts out to. Many of these bars have live bands that will back up your performances. Enjoy food and drinks while watching others sing some classic hits. Take the staging solo or do a riveting duet with your date and bask in the applause you’ll inevitably earn. This will be a date that neither of you will be likely to forget any time soon.

    See a Movie at the Theater

    Romantic loving couple at the cinema. Portrait of handsome man hugging her girlfriend and eating popcorn while watching a film at the movie theatre during date love dating romance.

    Seeing a movie at the theater on a rainy day is a classic date idea. Pick your favorite local theater, whether it is a chain with all the definitive movie theater concessions, a dine-in theater with a full menu, or an independent cinema that plays lesser-known films. Once you are seated, you can enjoy a movie and food with your date, knowing that you will be nice and dry and away from the rain for a few hours. 

     

  • Post-Wedding Blues – It’s Real

    Post-Wedding Blues – It’s Real

    A lot of people spend a long time planning their wedding. Months of stressful decision-making, plans for wedding showers, bachelor/bachelorette parties, rehearsal dinners, and finally, the wedding and reception. 

    This is a busy period where you are often surrounded by your closest friends and family, celebrating love and a new life to come, so it is no wonder that once it is all over, newlyweds may feel a little empty or blue. The wedding has consumed so much of your time and energy over the past months that you may be left wondering what comes next. This phenomenon of emptiest or grief after your wedding has a term: post-wedding blues. And it’s real

    Post-wedding blues is a term used to describe the feelings of loss and sadness newlyweds may experience after their wedding celebrations. After all the excitement of planning, once all the celebrating is over, couples can experience a steep drop in momentum. Think about it: there are no more plans for dinners and parties, out-of-town friends and family return home, and everyday routines return. It makes a great deal of sense to feel sad afterward. Even if your wedding was the best day of your life – that day is now over. The days and weeks after may feel anticlimactic.

    So, to cope with these feelings during what is likely an unexpectedly difficult time for you and your spouse, we are here to recommend some tips on how to deal with post-wedding blues. Remember, you aren’t alone in this feeling, and the celebrating doesn’t have to stop with a wedding. You get to live a life you up until now only dreamed of – married to the love of your life! Try incorporating some of the tips listed below into your newlywed life to shake the post-wedding blues away and enjoy the new life in front of you.

     

    4 Tips on Dealing with Post-Wedding Blues:

    Talk to Your Spouse

    Talking with your spouse is an important first tip for dealing with post-wedding blues. They are likely experiencing those same feelings of sadness or emptiness regarding the end of the celebration as you are. Communication is one of the most important aspects of marriage, so make sure to be upfront and honest about how you are feeling. Sit down with your spouse and discuss those feelings and thoughts about the wedding. Begin a conversation about your new, married life together and how you would like that life to look. This is likely not the first or last of these types of conversations, but being honest and expressive about where you are at is a fantastic way to lessen the feeling of loss you are experiencing. Plus, making plans for the future will give you something to look forward to once again, which leads us to our next tip!

    Plan a Celebration

    You didn’t realize this day would come when you were planning for your wedding, but here it is: you secretly miss planning. So, a great way to combat post-wedding blues is to plan another celebration! If you have a holiday like Memorial Day or Labor Day coming up, it may be a perfect excuse to throw a party or gathering – not that you need an excuse! If there aren’t any holidays coming up, you can have a ‘thank you for coming to our wedding’ party or a ‘just because’ party. Whatever gets you planning out menus and playlists and activities again. The familiarity of planning an event with have you reminiscing about your wedding in no time. And another gathering of friends and family will remind you that just because the wedding is over doesn’t mean your loved ones won’t be there to celebrate future moments with you and your spouse.  

    Unpack Your Wedding Gifts

    Your home may be divided into sections of gifts and party supplies. Thank you notes waiting to be written, a stack of wedding presents to return to the store, even leftover catering in the freezer. Set aside a day or weekend to tend to these things with your spouse. Turn it into a mini-celebration as you unpack and settle all your new items into your house together. Play your wedding playlist, write thank you notes together, and eat some good food. By the time you are done, you will have your home looking more like you aspired for it to be than a halfway station full of Amazon packages and unopened kitchen gadgets. 

     

    Flip Through Your Wedding Photos

    Another great tip for dealing with post-wedding blues is to flip through your wedding photos with your spouse. See and relive all the incredible moments from your wedding by looking through the photos captured throughout the celebration. And not just the photographer’s prints. If you had a hashtag for your wedding pictures on social media, don’t forget to check those out too! There are bound to be some beautiful moments throughout all the photos. If you find any that are particularly inspiring, consider ordering larger prints to be framed or stretched on canvas and used as home décor. Those captured moments can proudly be displayed in your home – and a lovely way to remember your big day every day.

     

  • 6 Labor Day Weekend Plans

    6 Labor Day Weekend Plans

     

    Labor Day is an American holiday created by the labor movement of the late 19th century. It is a celebration of the contributions and achievements of American workers during this era, when many people endured 12-hour days, seven days a week, working in unsafe conditions for minimal wages. Workers organized strikes and rallies to oppose these unfair situations, and the holiday was signed into law in 1894. Labor Day also signifies the end of summer for many people, like how Memorial Day signifies the beginning of summer. 

    With summer coming to a close, you might be wondering what to do with the holiday weekend as a last hurrah for the summer. We’ve gathered some great ideas that allow you to get outside and explore your area while soaking in the last days of summer sunshine. Enjoy fun activities like having a picnic or wandering through a botanical garden this Labor Day weekend. As a bonus, make your weekend labor-free with no chores, work, or cleaning to maximize how much you will enjoy this holiday.

    Go Kayaking

     

    If you have lakes or rivers close to where you live, chances are there are parks and recreational facilities that offer kayak rentals and tours. Kayaking is a fun activity that allows you to see your local wildlife with a new perspective – from the water! Consider a kayaking tour if possible so that you have the knowledge and guidance of a tour guide with you as you kayak. Tour guides can also provide helpful information about your surroundings, the waters, and the nature around you. This is a thrilling water sport that is a fresh way to see and learn new things while enjoying this last bit of summer weather. 

     

    Attend a Festival

    It is likely that your city or town will be hosting some festivities to celebrate the Labor Day holiday. This can come in the form of festivals, carnivals, parades, and more! Join in on the local celebrations by attending one of these events. They are essentially guaranteed to have some delicious food options, live entertainment, and opportunities to gather as a community. Enjoy all of the festival offerings at one of these fun events commemorating the end of summer as a great way to spend the holiday. 

     

    Have a Picnic

    Another awesome plan to make for Labor Day weekend is to have a picnic. A picnic is a great way to relish this last bit of summer while also enjoying a delicious meal. Find a nice park in your area to have your picnic, and pack an epic spread of sandwiches, chips, dips, fruit, drinks, and dessert to share with friends, with family, or as a fun date. Bring a picnic blanket and set up everything in a picturesque section of the park. Pack a book to read after your meal, or go for a walk in the park for a calm, ideal afternoon during the holiday weekend.  

     

    Visit a Botanical Garden

    Many areas have botanical gardens of some sort celebrating the local flora and fauna and a variety of different plant life to see for a nominal admission fee or suggested donation. Take a trip to one of these gardens and take in the sights and smells of the flowers and vegetation that surround you. There are likely quaint and quiet walking paths to wander, as well as smaller, more intricately designed gardens to appreciate. Learn about the plants within the gardens while taking in the peace and sense of calm that comes with being surrounded by nature. 

     

    Go to the Farmer’s Market

     

    A lot of cities and towns host farmer’s markets, which are great opportunities for local farmers and vendors to sell produce and other goods like honey and baked goods. Often, these farmer’s markets are only held in or around the summer season, so Labor Day may signify the near end of them for the year. Take a trip to the farmer’s market one morning and shop from a local selection of produce and goods. Many markets also have craft vendors that sell handmade jewelry and home décor. You might end up leaving with something beautiful and unique, in addition to a basket full of produce! 

     

    See an Outdoor Movie

     

    Another fun, summer-weather permitting activity is outdoor movie nights. Different parks, gardens, or groups in your area may host them in large green spaces like parks. They are often very affordable, if not free, events to attend, with family-friendly movies broadcasted on large projector screens outside for the crowd of attendees to watch. Pack up your beach or camping chairs, picnic blankets, pillows – whatever is most comfortable for an outdoor setup. Gather your favorite movie snacks, like a bag of popcorn, chips, crackers, and candies, to enjoy an entertaining movie outside on one of the last nice and warm evenings of the summer season as a great way to celebrate Labor Day weekend. 

  • 4 Tips on Getting Used to Your New Last Name

    4 Tips on Getting Used to Your New Last Name

     

    If you have recently gotten hitched, congratulations! 

    There are many big decisions that come with this major life change, like whether or not you will change your last name. If you have decided to take your spouse’s last name, you may be excited at the prospect of sharing this identity-defining element with them. You may also be intimated by the amount of work that goes into changing your last name beyond the marriage certificate. 

    Between your home, utility bills, and bank accounts, it can seem like there are an overwhelming number of places you need to update your name. You may consider getting assistance from a name change service instead of doing it all by yourself. Especially after extensive planning for a wedding or elopement, showers, honeymoon, etc., you probably just want to enjoy your new, married life with your spouse instead of getting caught up in tedious paperwork. 

    If you find yourself slipping up and using your maiden name or just don’t feel like your new last name is completely yours yet, we have put together some tips that will help you get used to your new name. The name change transition doesn’t have to be difficult to navigate; it is important to enjoy this incredible time in your life with your new spouse. So, check out the tips below that will have your new last name rolling off your tongue in no time!

     

    1. Update All Your Accounts as Soon as Possible

     

    No doubt, over time, you have collected a grand amount of accounts in your name. In addition to your ID or license and passport, there is the lease or deed for your home, utility bills, bank accounts, loans, and credit cards that will all need to be updated, not to mention your doctor, dentist, and pharmacy! It’s important to get all of these updated as soon as possible so that you aren’t running into accounts that need to be updated all throughout your first year of marriage and beyond, which can be annoying and frustrating to deal with. There are name change services that offer different packages with pre-completed name change forms to assist with the name change process. Once you get all of your accounts updated, you will start seeing your new name in email and mail correspondence – and the more you see it, the easier it will be to get used to your new last name. 

     

    2. Social Media Update

    Chances are, you didn’t invite everyone you have ever met to your wedding. Whether you had a large ceremony, a smaller one, or decided to elope, there are people in your life that weren’t a part of the festivities. When you go to update your name on sites like Facebook and Instagram, we recommend posting a social media update to your circle of friends and followers, letting them know about your name change. (It is also a great excuse to share some photos from your wedding ceremony and reception!) In addition to lovely well-wishes, everyone on your friends’ list, from old coworkers to distant cousins, will know about your new last name. All you have to do is hit “Post,” and soon, not only you but everyone in your life will get used to your new last name. 

     

    3. Update Your Email Signatures

    So, you are back in the office after your wedding and honeymoon and received many congratulations from your coworkers. You already met with HR to update your paperwork, work ID or badge, and anything else of high importance. Maybe you think everything is all squared away already, then you sit down to check your work email and realize that is not the case. It’s time to update your email signatures! Depending on your job, you may also need a new email address routed to your inbox if your company uses any version of your name as part of your email address. Make sure to update your email signature as well to ensure that all future correspondence is accurately addressed to you.

     

    4. Treat Yourself to New Monogrammed Accessories


    This is a fun one! You have gone through all the paperwork, updated all your bills, and informed everyone in your life of your marriage and name change. Time to celebrate with some new accessories. There are many cool and custom items out there that you can get to show off your new last name, like stationary, luggage tags, and jewelry. Treat yourself to something new and fun that will also assist you in getting used to your new last name. Hop on a site like Etsy, where there are many shops that create custom products for their customers, and find something that speaks to you and your new name. It is an excellent way to commemorate a most important life change.

     

  • 5 Wedding Anniversary Gift Ideas 

    5 Wedding Anniversary Gift Ideas 

    A wedding anniversary is a wonderful time to reflect on all the time that you have spent with your spouse. Looking back at fond memories can also serve as inspiration for wedding anniversary gift ideas.

     

    Another inspiration can be to look at a list of traditional wedding gifts by year. Paper is for the first anniversary; wood is for the fifth anniversary; tin or aluminum is for the tenth anniversary. If your spouse appreciates attention to detail and sentimentality, traditional gifts by year is a great aspect to keep in mind as you look for gift ideas (i.e., Tickets to an event can be a fun paper gift for a first wedding anniversary!)

     

    When it comes to anniversary gifts, there are many different routes you can take because every person and relationship is different. We’re here to recommend some great ideas and inspiration for gifts that will be adored by your spouse and assist in making your anniversary a fun and happy celebration.

     

    An Experience 

     

    An experience can come in many forms. If you and your spouse enjoy going out to different events and places, an experience might be the perfect gift to give on your anniversary! There are so many options when it comes to experiences, so these are very customizable to your relationship. Would your spouse love tickets to see their favorite band? Would they be over the moon to receive tickets to a live production like a play or musical?

    If your spouse is a thrill-seeker, maybe your experience gift is an adventure-based activity like zip lining or a kayak tour. If they enjoy art, maybe they will enjoy a series of weeknight art classes. The most important aspects when it comes to gifting an experience is to know what your spouse would appreciate most and whether it is an experience that you will share together.

     

    Home Décor

     

    Home décor is another great option for a wedding anniversary gift with many opportunities for individuality. If you wish to give your spouse a gift made of material from a traditional wedding anniversary gift list (wood, copper, aluminum, etc.), this is an excellent option. When it comes to home décor, you will want to choose something that is both timeless and fitting to your existing home design. 

     

    You can gift your spouse a vintage desk for their office space or a new bookcase for displaying books and trinkets. You can also choose to gift them a work of art like a painting or print. Online stores like Etsy can provide creative ideas and often have custom-made options. An artsy print of your spouse’s hometown or a painting from an artist they love are both great gifts to present them with for your anniversary.

     

    Jewelry

    Jewelry is a classic anniversary gift idea. And there are so many options for you to choose from. Take a visit to your local jewelry to see what catches your eye. If possible, visit the one you and your spouse purchased your wedding rings from. You will likely see some jewelry in the vein of the same style of your rings, making it easier to find something that matches your spouse’s existing jewelry. 

     

    Some ideas for jewelry include watches, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. This is another gift option that you can think about customizing. You can choose your spouse’s favorite gemstone or their birthstone. You can also get many pieces engraved with your wedding anniversary date or a small, written expression of your love.

    Tools for Hobbies

     

    Chances are, your spouse has something that they love to do outside of work. It could be a form of art, like painting or photography; a craft like knitting or crocheting; a type of exercise like yoga or kickboxing; or something else! Another awesome wedding anniversary gift idea is to gift your spouse new tools for their hobbies. This is also an amazing way to show that you support their interests. Depending on the hobby, this can be a new camera lens or bag, new paintbrushes or canvas, or another object that will inspire them to continue pursuing their passions.

     

    A Vacation

    If you are looking for a grand wedding anniversary gift, a vacation might be a good option for you! There are many different places that you can choose for an anniversary vacation, whether it be a spot you and your spouse have enjoyed in the past or somewhere new that you both have been dreaming of visiting. 

     

    Consider what would be an optimal and romantic choice for you and your spouse to enjoy. It could be a cruise around the Caribbean, an extended weekend trip at a cozy bed and breakfast, or even a hiking trek at a scenic national park! You can also check with the hotel or venue that hosted your wedding or your honeymoon destination. They often provide great deals for spouses that wish to revisit.

  • 6 Wedding Floral Trends in 2022

    6 Wedding Floral Trends in 2022

    Floral arrangements can play a big part in your wedding’s theme and general atmosphere. Many people have chosen to scale back on wedding plans over the past couple of years, opting for smaller wedding celebrations due to the pandemic. Now, in 2022, people are planning larger weddings, and the flower industry is thriving. The flowers you choose are forever captured in your wedding photos and videos, so it is imperative to choose arrangements that you love and feel capture the theme and atmosphere for your special day. 

    We are seeing some fun trends this year, effected in parts by changes in demand, interest, and styles for these incredible, once-in-a-lifetime festivities. There are a lot of different looks that are popular right now, so whether you are a fan of a simple look, something bright, something bold, or something else, you will probably be able to find a 2022 floral trend that will be perfect for your big day. 

    Understated and Luxurious 

     

    A classic floral theme can be a great option for those who prefer a timeless look. These will continue to remain in style for many years to come. Choosing off-white flowers like buttercream and ivory will match seamlessly with a wide variety of greenery. The secret to making this trend truly thrive is the luxurious look of quality floral arrangements. Make sure to check with your local florists to find quality options for your wedding. Lush, blooming flowers will make an eye-catching statement without detracting from the rest of your décor, theme, and venue. 

    Bright Colors That Pop

     

    If a classic look isn’t your thing and you are looking for something more bold and attention-grabbing, consider another popular 2022 floral trend: brightly colored floral arrangements. Vibrant colors will surprise and amaze your guests. For this style, you will want to choose rich colors that pop, such as bright, deep purples and rich, warm shades of orange. This is a trend to have fun with. Make it colorful, make a statement! A flower wall is an amazing option for this style, as you can incorporate bright florals into it as an entryway or a background for your wedding ceremony, which will look marvelous in your photos and video.

    Big Arrangements

    Flowers everywhere! If you love, love, love flowers and want to incorporate them as much as possible into your wedding – you’re in luck! Big arrangements are another trendy 2022 option for you. Lush, overgrown arrangements can be placed all over your venue, from entryways to archways, backgrounds, table settings, alongside the aisle, and more! Create a fantastic and fairytale look for your wedding with large arrangements with big flowers like fluffy peonies and dahlias. Add a lot of greenery to adhere to a large, bold look. This is another fun option, full of life and personality.  

    Fluorescent Pastels

    Another great option for a trendy wedding floral arrangement is to choose fluorescent pastels. Pastels are often in style when it comes to wedding flowers, but fluorescent pastels differ with a distinctive pop of color. These include a variety of soft colors that catch the eye, like lavender and periwinkle. Pale shades and pink, blue, and yellow add to the perceptible look of these unique arrangements. Dark, rich greenery pairs well with these soft, understated colors to create a dreamy look. Great flowers for this look include varieties of roses, peonies, and baby’s breath. This trend is getting a lot of attention right now thanks to its Instagram-worthy colors and ethereal ambiance. 

    Natural and Clean

    If environmentalism is a big focus for you as you make your wedding plans, you will be thrilled to know that a natural, clean look is currently trending. Organic arrangements are grown without chemical fertilizers or pesticides, meaning the flowers are healthier and more sustainable. Without those chemicals, flowers grow naturally into their own sizes and shapes. Natural arrangements are a departure from uniform table settings and centerpieces. Natural and clean looks tend to lean on lots of greenery and inspired cottage and forest vibes for your special day. And the best part? Your arrangements will eco-friendly!

    Unexpected Pairings

    Possibly the most unique floral trend of 2022 includes unexpected pairings. More people are opting for different, distinctive combinations with their wedding flower arrangements, like pairing flowers and greenery with different types of branches and dried flowers. If you aren’t a fan of traditional styles and want to have something that cannot be replicated, consider florals that include unique textures along with local or seasonal foliage and accents. Moss and twigs can be used to complement your arrangements. The great thing about this option is that it is all entirely up to your tastes and desire! No rules, traditions, or styles to follow. There is a special beauty that comes with unexpected pairings – your guests will be in wonder of the creativity that shines through.   

  • 3 Tips for Managing Finances as Newlyweds

    3 Tips for Managing Finances as Newlyweds

    Money is one of the most common sources of conflict between married couples. Indecision about everything from big goals to little purchases can be a source of friction between you and your spouse. If you are recently married, about to be married, or have been married for a bit and are struggling to get on the same page financially, this article is for you.

    We are going to highlight the most important tips for managing finances as a newlywed couple. There are many things that you will need to discuss with your spouse to get a better idea of where you differ and what similarities you have when it comes to finances. 

    Big topics like separate and combined bank accounts, monthly budgets, and goals all need to be talked about at length. Keep in mind that you likely won’t be able to knock this all out in one conversation. To maintain patience and make the best decisions you can as a couple, consider setting aside an hour or so once a week to discuss these topics bit by bit. It’s also important to revisit these discussions regularly to make sure you are still on the same page with your spouse.

    Remember, there is no rush to have it all figured out immediately, though these tips can help you set a solid financial base for your marriage and your future. 

    Discuss Combined and Separate Bank Accounts

    An excellent starting point for big financial decisions as a married couple is deciding whether you want combined or separate bank accounts. Each option comes with its own pros and cons. There is no single correct answer – it all depends on what you both think will work best for you.

    Combined accounts 

    Pros: helpful for tracking all expenses and paying bills.

    Cons: lack of privacy and unplanned purchases may become a source of conflict.

    Separate accounts

    Pros: more privacy with transactions, managing individual debts

    Cons: it may be more difficult to manage joint expenses and bills

    If neither of these options sounds right for you and your spouse, you may also consider having both separate and combined accounts. It may be more of a challenge to manage, but once you have discussed all of the important topics in this article, you will likely feel more confident in your ability to oversee both separate and combined accounts, which gives you the best of both worlds in terms and privacy and convenience. 

    Decide on a Monthly Budget

    Once you have decided on how you and your spouse will manage your bank accounts, it’s time to move on to your monthly budget. Discussing your monthly expenses and choosing a budget to stick to is imperative to future financial well-being. 

    For this section, you will want to start by sitting down together and writing out your monthly expenses. Essential transactions like rent/mortgage, utility bills, and insurance will go here. These are things that need to be paid every month. 

    Next, you will try to ballpark your other planned expenses (groceries, gas, subscriptions.) It may help to take a look at past transactions to get a better idea of the amounts for each. 

    After you have calculated all of that, consider how much you would like to have for miscellaneous spending like going out for dinner or the movies or to a museum. It’s important to make room for fun activities, or else budgeting and saving may feel like too much of a chore. Just because you have a budget doesn’t mean you can’t splurge every now and then!

    Articulate Savings Goals

     

    After you have outlined a budget with your spouse, the next thing to discuss will be your savings goals. These will all be shaped by the types of goals you have as a couple and as individuals – both short and long-term! Maybe one of you wants to buy a new car next year, and maybe you want to take a trip together in the fall. Now is the time to start a discussion about savings goals. I’m sure it won’t be the first discussion – or the last!

    It is important to consider your emergency fund as a couple. It is recommended that you save enough to cover 3 to 6 months’ worth of expenses. Once you meet that goal, then you can move on to other goals. 

    Long-term goals will look a lot different from short-term goals, and it is important to plan for both and choose how much you and your spouse will contribute monthly to them, whether it be 50/50, on a sliding scale, or some other way you can both agree on. The most important thing is to make it realistic to your spending habits. The harder your goals are to achieve, the more likely it will be that you will throw in the towel. Like the miscellaneous spending you should budget for each month, it is important to choose goals that are achievable without calling for a large amount of sacrifice.

     

  • 5 Summer Weekend Plans with Children

    5 Summer Weekend Plans with Children

    With the kids being out of school for summer, your weekdays have likely changed drastically. No more school drop-offs, pick-ups, or homework. Finding activities to keep your children entertained during the weekdays can be taxing, trying to find a balance of fun and work. There are crafts, projects, chores, and more. 

    But now the weekend rolls around, and you might be at a loss for what to do. You implemented all your ideas during the week! Well, don’t stress – we’re here to recommend some summer weekend plans to enjoy with your children. From having a backyard campout to exploring parks and pools in your town to a trip to the zoo or movies, we’ve got you covered with some great plans that will include weekend fun for the whole family!

    Have a Backyard Campout

    Having a backyard campout is a fun weekend plan to try out for all the nature lovers at heart. This is also a good test run for families who would like to plan camping trips to state and national parks this summer. Working out the kinks before a more extensive trip is much less stressful when your backdoor is just a few steps away.

    You don’t have to be a seasoned camper to have a backyard campout; you’ll just need to get some camping gear essentials: a tent or two, sleeping bags, and lanterns or flashlights. If you can, build a campfire! Campfires are perfect for roasting marshmallows for s’mores and telling spooky campfire stories. A backyard campout is a memorable experience that will have the kids reminiscing about it for years to come.

    See a Matinee Movie

    A trip to the movie theater can become quite expensive when you are going as a family. One way to combat this is to go earlier in the day and see an early bird or matinee movie, which are often discounted as much as 50% off evening prices. So, on a weekend morning or early afternoon, take the kids out to the movies and see the latest family-friendly feature. Sit down in a theater with a bucket of popcorn and relax – you’ve just bought yourself and your kids a couple of hours of exciting entertainment. 

    Take a Trip to the Pool or Splash Pad

     

    As the days heat up, you may be looking for something fun to do outdoors with the kids that won’t be too uncomfortable. An excellent option is to put on your swimsuits and head to your local pool or splash pad. These are awesome choices for high-energy days because the kids can play around and not have to use their “inside voices.” 

    Check out your options for pools and splash pads in your area and choose the one you think the kids will enjoy most. Many splash pads are often connected to playgrounds, conveniently adding another fun activity to your outing. Depending on how much time you have, you can pack a cooler with sandwiches and snacks. Bring a picnic blanket, or maybe the area has a picnic table available, and enjoy a picnic lunch with your kids. They’re likely to work up an appetite with all the swimming or running around!

    Go to the Zoo

    A trip to the zoo is a fun weekend plan to experience with your kids. Depending on where you live, you might have a zoo in your town you can visit. If you are close to a large city, it may be worth the trip to check out its zoo, which likely has many exhibits. Visiting a large zoo can easily take up most of the day!

    Wander around with your kids and see all the animals the zoo has on its grounds – from birds to big cats to reptiles to marine life. Most zoos have quite an array of animals. Many zoos have scheduled activities such as shows, live feeding, or educational programming, so make sure to check out their map or brochure when you arrive. Explore the zoo and learn about rescue and conversation efforts and how they play a vital role in the future of wildlife.

    Ride Bikes in the Park

    If you are searching for a fun physical activity to do on the weekend with your kids, consider a bike ride in the park. There are likely many options for where you and your children can go, depending on how long you want to ride your bikes. Check out local parks and trails, which often have paved paths that are easily accessible, or head out to a large park or preserve, which will likely have a variety of paths to choose from. (Perfect for those with older kids.) 

    Make sure your bikes are in tip-top shape and take them for a spin around the block beforehand – this is essential if the bikes have been sitting for a while. You don’t want to come across any issues after driving to your destination! Pack your air pump and a first aid kit, just in case. Strap on your helmets and get ready to ride with this fun summer weekend activity!

     

  • Top 10 Cities to Visit This Summer

    Top 10 Cities to Visit This Summer

    If the warm weather has you itching to pack up and travel somewhere new, you might be wondering where to go. The US destinations on this list range from major cities to cultural hubs to well-known vacation destinations. Whether you want to be in awe of distinguished landmarks, spend your days shopping and dining, in museums, or at the beach, we have a city for you! Keep reading to find out our recommended top ten cities to visit this summer.

     

    Chicago, IL

     

    Chicago, Illinois, is one of the biggest cities in the United States. There are tons of things to do in Chicago, including visiting the Art Institute of Chicago – one of the world’s major museums. You can easily spend a whole day exploring in there. Chicago also has The Field Museum – for those who love natural history, Adler Planetarium – for astronomy lovers, and Shedd Aquarium – for marine and aquatic fans. Stroll through Millennium Park. Sample some deep-dish pizza. There are a plethora of things to do in this city.

     

    Portland, ME

     Portland, Maine, is often overlooked because it is one of the smaller major cities in the US. Yet, Maine in the summer is like a world of its own. Portland has art, nature, and tons of dining options to explore. Visit the iconic Portland Head Light – the oldest lighthouse in Maine, dating back to 1791. Walk through cobblestone streets in Old Port, where you will find boutiques and art galleries. Enjoy a lobster roll, a famous Maine culinary staple. 

    Boston, MA 

    Boston, Massachusetts, is full of history. Walk the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile path full of significant historical landmarks, including graveyards, churches, and old state buildings. If you like art, check out the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, or the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum – both facilities offer beautiful collections for viewing. If you want to explore outside of the city, head right over to nearby Cambridge, where to can tour Harvard University’s campus.

     

    Orlando, FL

     

    Next on the list is sunny Orlando, Florida – a recognizable vacation destination thanks in part to theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal, and SeaWorld. Outside of the theme parks, there are still many things to enjoy, like visiting areas with many parks, preserves, and springs. Check out Wekiwa Springs State Park, where you can go hiking through wildlife trails and swimming in crystal-clear water.

     

    Seattle, WA

     Seattle, Washington, is a major city in the Pacific Northwest. Visit the well-known, recognizable Space Needle, an observation tower that will provide you with beautiful views on a clear day. Pike Place Market is a famous public market and a huge place to explore. There are many craft vendors and dining options at the market. The Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit in the Seattle Center is a unique place to see studio glass artwork. You can also take a ferry across Puget Sound and explore nearby towns outside of the city. 

     

    Nashville, TN

     

    Nashville, Tennessee, is a country music lover’s premier destination. There are tons of venues to catch up-and-coming musicians performing. Take a Music Row tour, where you can visit studios and get behind-the-scenes stories about notable Nashville artists. There are beautiful green spaces to walk through, such as Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park or Centennial Park, which contains a full-size replica of the Greek landmark, The Parthenon. 

     

    San Juan, PR

    San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a beautiful US city and Caribbean destination you can travel to without a passport. The city is full of history and stunning landmarks. Castillo San Cristobal is a fortress that was finished in 1783 to protect San Juan against land-based attacks. The fort overlooks the ocean and is a memorable site to visit. Enjoy shopping in Viejo San Juan, where you can walk down cobblestone streets in this historic area. And it wouldn’t be a trip to the Caribbean without a beach day! San Juan has picturesque, sandy beaches to enjoy.

     

    Denver, CO

    Denver, Colorado, is a Southwest city with many things to do. You can visit the Denver Art Museum, Denver Zoo, or a personal favorite – the Denver Botanic Gardens, a 23-acre park with a conservatory and many themed gardens. 16th Street Mall is an excellent place in Downtown Denver to get some shopping done. It is a pedestrian street with over 300 stores. Head outside of the city to visit the well-known Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, where you can watch an unforgettable concert and hike amongst the red rocks.

     

    San Francisco, CA

     San Francisco, California, is a large city with a lot of notable places to visit. Walk through Golden Gate Park, a large urban park with a variety of gardens to see. See the Golden Gate Bridge and visit Alcatraz Island. Pier 39 is a great place to go for shopping and dining, as well as lovely views of the city and the water. Venture out to Muir Woods National Monument, where you can hike through stunning redwood forests. 

     

    Washington, DC 

    Washington, DC, is the US capital. It is full of historical and cultural sites. History lovers will be quite busy trying to see all that Washington has to offer, like The White House, the United States Capitol, and the Library of Congress, to name a few. There is no shortage of museums to visit here, like the National Gallery of Art and the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. See the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and enjoy the National Mall and the many other sites located here.