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Tag: Marriage Name Change Solution

  • 9 Things You Need To Do After Your Wedding

    9 Things You Need To Do After Your Wedding

    The most beautiful and stressful day of your life is over. The bittersweet feelings will fade away as soon as you start enjoying your status as newlyweds, but before that can begin, you have to do a few more things. It’s not hard, but you will regret it if you skip almost any of these steps.

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    Relax and Appreciate The Experience

    First things first, you have to take time to relax. Weddings are stressful, but it’s over now. It’s time to start your lives together. Sleep in for a few days, and put your phone on do not disturb mode. Don’t even think about cooking. You need to reserve the days after your wedding for take-out. 

    Reflect on your wedding day and what a great time you had. Laugh at that one guest that drank too much or the couple who wore matching outfits. Make sure the memories you made stick. Then, refocus on romance and finding your footing in this next step in your relationship. This is your opportunity to go out into the world and reintroduce yourself. 

    Change Your Name

    Speaking of introducing yourselves, if you haven’t done it already, changing your last name can be a long process with a lot of different steps. HitchSwitch can help! Still, you need to start the process to make it official. Changing your name also means you have to change it on your bank accounts, insurance documents, and other legal matters.

    Not only do you have to change your name on important documents, but you also get to change your name on social media. Make sure you change your username too. It’s time to shout your new name at the top of your lungs! 

     

    Open Presents And Send Thank You Cards

    You’ve been patiently waiting to open that massive pile of cards and presents, and now is your chance. This might be the best post-wedding activity you get to do, other than your honeymoon. As you begin opening, it’s a fantastic idea to write down exactly who gave you what as you’re opening the gifts. 

    Doing this can save you a lot of work and trouble as you start to write your thank you cards. You’ll be very grateful that you kept track of everything you got. It will also help you personalize each thank you card so everyone feels valued.

    Honeymoon Preparation 

    The most stressful task on this list is preparing for your honeymoon. There’s always a lot of pressure surrounding the honeymoon, but there doesn’t have to be. It’s just a vacation that you’re taking with your spouse, and it may become the best vacation of your life. No pressure. 

    To prep, you need to pack, make last-minute reservations, and purchase any last-minute items and snacks for the plane. Bonus points if you remember to pack matching outfits. Make a list and check it a few times as you’re packing. Oh, and don’t forget your plane tickets. 

     

    Next Morning Brunch

    The next morning brunch will only apply to you if you plan on seeing people after your wedding, but it’s something everyone should at least consider, especially if you’re having guests from out of town. A brunch is an excellent option for couples who never want the party to end.

    You can see everyone one last time before they head home, and you have one more excuse to wear white. It’s a great way to end the celebration. It’s kind of like a closing ceremony, but with mimosas.

    Save Your Wedding Treasures

    You want to remember your wedding day for the rest of your life, so you have to act quickly once your wedding is over if you want certain things preserved. Your bouquet needs to be saved very soon after the wedding unless you want your flowers dried. You also might want to frame your invitations or repurpose some centerpieces. 

    This is also the time that you want to get your outfits from the wedding dry cleaned. This is essential if you plan on preserving your dress in any way. Preservation should also occur as soon as possible so nothing else can damage your gown. 

     

    Post-Wedding Gear

    Post-wedding gear might seem silly to you, but you might regret not wearing it in the future. After your wedding is prime time for the “Mr. & Mrs.” mugs, t-shirts, sweatshirts, and all that good stuff. You don’t have a long time in which you can wear it, so take the opportunity now before a few months go by and you’re no longer fresh newlyweds. 

    Add the matching shirts to your honeymoon packing list too.  

    Write Everything Down

    You probably gave your guests an opportunity to share their memories of your big day at your wedding or on social media. You can look at your wedding hashtag for their memories, but you should keep track of yours too. Take a journal and write down all of the memories and stand-out moments of the night. 

    Write out all of those moments with as much detail as possible. Write about what you saw, heard, touched, tasted, and even smelled. Most importantly, write down how you felt. Those are the things that you’ll forget as time passes, but if you write them down while they’re still fresh, you’ll have them forever. 

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    Enjoy Your New Title As Husband And Wife

    Finally, it’s time to revel in your newlywed status. Enjoy the time and attention you’re getting. Take advantage of all that people offer you when they hear you just got married. This is your time to shine, and you and your new spouse deserve to bask in the limelight. 

    Make sure you take photos. Have no shame in asking others to take pictures of you and your spouse on your honeymoon and pay for the one’s resorts and amusement parks take of you. You’ll want more than selfies together. In a few years from now, you’ll thank yourself for taking all of these steps after your wedding.

     

  • The Best Road Trip Destinations In America

    The Best Road Trip Destinations In America

    Road trips are booming in popularity lately, and it’s no secret why. You’re able to see so many new and different sites and places when you drive through them. Flying is convenient, but you’re missing so much by soaring over these places instead of stopping to enjoy them. 

    No matter where you are driving in the country, there are things to see and places to experience. Road trips are one of the best ways to make memories. Hopefully, this list will inspire you to start planning one today! 

     

    Natural Wonders

    The number one thing people want to see when they’re on a road trip is the natural wonders. The United States is filled with parks, waterfalls, and natural features you have to see to believe. Pictures won’t do these places justice. You have to get in your car and experience them yourself. 

    Lake Tahoe

    Lake Tahoe, Nevada, has the clearest blue water that you can imagine. You can find this lake at the bottom of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Can you imagine what it’s like to look up at the mountains while swimming in this lake? If you want the best look at the lake itself, you’ll have to visit Emerald Bay. That’s where you can take in the magnitude of Lake Tahoe. 

    Depending on what time of year you visit, you can go camping, hiking, and swimming. Since the area is so popular, consider going in the spring or fall during its offseason. The waterfalls surrounding the lake are magnificent in the spring, and the changing leaves in the fall will add an extra flair to your trip. If you have to go in the summer, get there early in the morning so you can enjoy it before the crowd arrives. 

     

    Havasupai In Arizona 

    Havasupai is home to an absolutely dazzling waterfall. It’s an up-and-coming favorite for adventurers and backpackers. You can find it right next to the Grand Canyon, so if you’re visiting the area anyway, you might as well stop by! It is a ten-mile hike that’s not made for the faint of heart, but it’s well worth it. 

    You’ll need a permit and a bit of experience backpacking, but as long as you take a few shorter backpacking first, you’ll be all set. When you go, there are several different waterfalls you can visit. If you want the real show stopper, you can hike a bit further and find the Confluence. That’s where the bright blue water of the falls meets the brown water from the river. 

    Must-See Museums

    When you’re traveling, museums are a great way to have a relaxed day. Whether it’s an art, history, or any other type of museum, you’re always going to learn something new. You’re traveling to experience new things, and there’s no better way to do that than going to a museum. Plus, it’s the perfect opportunity to stretch your legs after a long drive.  

    Museum Of Modern Art

    If you’re road-tripping on the East Coast, chances are you’re stopping in NYC. Who wouldn’t? It’s one of the best destinations on the planet, and it has something everyone can enjoy. This city hosts the MoMA, one of the best modern art museums in the world. 

    You’ll be able to see famous and timeless pieces of art that you may never be able to see again. Take your time and explore this museum. You won’t want to miss a single thing. If you’re lucky, you’ll show up on a day when they are having a live concert! 

    Art Institute Of Chicago

    Unlike MoMA, the Art Institute of Chicago holds more than modern art. As a visitor, you can enjoy contemporary art, ancient art, and various preserved works. This museum has something everyone can appreciate. 

    You’ll also have the privilege of being able to see some of Picasso’s original artwork. Take a good look; it’s the only place you’ll find those original pieces. You should also check to see if they are showing any special exhibits. You won’t want to miss that! 

    The SPAM Museum

    This is a fun one. In Minnesota, there is a museum completely centered around the canned meat, SPAM. This museum is for those who like attractions that are off the beaten path. It might not be for everyone, but it looks like so much fun!

    You can learn about the history of SPAM, or you can find out what your height is in cans of SPAM. There are tons of funny photo opportunities, and admission is free. Although, you should take a look in their gift shop. That’s where you can find magnets, keychains, and all the different flavors of SPAM that could include a pumpkin spice SPAM!

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    Human-Made Sites

    Not all roadside attractions are museums or waterfalls. Some of the best and most interesting attractions are human-made and designed to be tourist attractions. They can be cool, and some can be weird, but these two are great stops on an ultimate road trip. 

    Bishop Castle In Colorado 

    About 60 years ago, Jim Bishop started building Bishop Castle. There’s nothing else like this castle in the United States and maybe the world. It has all the feeling of an antique European castle, but it’s not even a century old! 

    There is modern stained glass, but there’s also an ax stuck in the middle of the floor. Take a stroll on one of the two catwalks, or climb to the top of all four of the castle’s towers. There are so many secrets to discover in this castle; you could easily spend the whole day there.

    Lucy The Elephant 

    Lucy is a six-story high elephant found in New Jersey. Built in 1881, it’s the first-ever roadside attraction. After surviving hurricanes and weathering hundreds of storms, Lucy is now a historical landmark. Visting is free, but you need a ticket if you want to climb all six stories and see the view from the top. Don’t miss your chance to see an elephant-sized piece of history. 

     

    Start Planning Your Road Trip Now 

    It’s never too early to start planning for a road trip! Set your days off for work, make your schedule, and set your budget. Road trips are one of the most fun and most affordable vacations out there. There is no downside!

  • Who You Should And Shouldn’t Invite To Your Wedding?

    Who You Should And Shouldn’t Invite To Your Wedding?

    Before we start, you probably need a reminder about your wedding. As you plan, put down deposits, and decide who you should invite to your wedding, it becomes easier and easier for your wedding to feel like a party for everyone else. Everyone has an opinion, and they want their ideas to be a part of your big day, but it’s not their opinions that matter.

    Sure, take your family and bridal party’s opinions into consideration, but don’t forget that this is your day. The only people who have the final say are you and your fiancé. This is your wedding, and you should only invite the people you want there. 

    If you’re having a more traditional wedding with a formal guest list, you probably have a good idea of who you’re going to invite. AKA, you’re going to invite everyone you’ve ever met, especially if you’re related to them. 

    For the bride who doesn’t want to invite every single distant cousin, you’re probably looking for guidance on how to trim your guest list. It’s tough work, but here are a few guidelines to help you finalize your invitations. 

     

    Where To Start

    Start from the basics. Whether from family, friends, or work, how you know them will change if you decide to invite them. Most people are more likely to invite distant family than they are to invite a friend they haven’t seen in years. 

    Then comes the challenging part. You have to be honest with yourself. Figure out how close you are to each person on your list. If you haven’t spoken to them in the past six months to a year, chances are you won’t miss them at your wedding. 

    Family members who call your parents, but not you, also shouldn’t be invited. If you don’t have a personal relationship with them, there’s no point in inviting them to your wedding. You can take anyone who had a wedding and didn’t invite you off the list. You are officially under no obligation to invite them if they didn’t invite you to theirs. 

    You can determine what friends and co-workers to invite, but when you’re unsure about what to do with someone in the family, ask your parents and in-laws. The final decision is yours, but when it comes to family, their opinion can be valuable. 

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    Whittle Down Your List A Bit More

    As your making the final cuts, it’s time to ask yourself the big question. Will this person make your wedding day better or worse? We all have family members that start drama or friends who party too hard. You have to decide if the possible stress of having them there is worth inviting them to your wedding.

    Maybe this person will make your wedding more memorable. If they make it memorable, make sure it’s in a positive way. Don’t take someone off your guest list if you’re going to regret not having them there. The regret will be worse than just biting the bullet and inviting them. 

    The final question when deciding who to invite to your wedding is if you can afford it. Every plate is incredibly expensive, and the price will soar as you include more people. Will their presence at your wedding be worth the money it costs to have them there? Weddings are expensive enough already, so cut the people you don’t want there and get a photo booth instead. 

     

    How To Say “No Kids”

    If you’re desperate to cut your list, having a kid-free wedding is a great place to start. Unfortunately, it can be a sore spot for a lot of people. Whether you want children at the wedding or not is your business. Some weddings can be kid-friendly, but most of the time, kids won’t enjoy it, and they’ll have to leave early with their parents when it’s their bedtime. 

    When having a kid-free wedding, you need to choose a cut-off age. It could be 13, 18, or 21 years old. Sometimes, the best course of action is to make your wedding 21 and up. Whenever there is an open bar, there is some liability. Keeping it 21 and up will eliminate that problem.  

    Once you’ve chosen to have a kid-free wedding, there are a few ways to signal that you didn’t invite children on the invitations. First, you will want to be very specific when writing out the envelopes. Only include the names of the people who are invited to your wedding. Don’t write “The Jones Family” because it can imply that the kids can come too. 

    On the RSVP card, in the spot where they can put how many people will be attending, write out how many people are invited. So when they look at the RSVP card, it says “out of two.” This will make it clear that only the two people on the envelope are invited to the wedding. 

    On the invitation, you can casually include the term “Adults Only Reception.” This tactic is best if you want the kids close to you at the ceremony but not at the party. This is also where a little white lie won’t hurt anyone. If someone gets angry, blame it on limited availability or the venue’s open bar policy. 

    It’s also worth mentioning that kid-free doesn’t have to be completely kid-free. If you have a flower girl, ring bearer, they can come if you want them to. If you have kids or teens that you’re very close within your family, feel free to invite them and have them be the exception. This is your wedding, and you make the rules.

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    The Final Cut

    Have a set number of people that you will invite to your wedding and stick to it! This will help cut your list down and keep your wedding on a budget. Get your priorities straight and stay firm on your decisions. Not everyone will be happy with your final decisions, but as long as you and your fiancé are satisfied with the guest list, it doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks. 

     

  • Spring 2021 Home Decor Trends

    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! 

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    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. 

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    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! 

  • Beautiful Wedding DIY Ideas

    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. 

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    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. 

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    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! 

  • Wedding Day Emergency Bag Necessities

    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. 

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    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. 

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    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. 

  • How To Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day In 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.

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    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. 

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    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. 

  • Wedding Venues: Things To Consider

    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. 

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    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. 

     

  • How To Choose The Best Wedding Guest Attire 

    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.  

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    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. 

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    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. 

  • Wedding Trends In 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.