Hitchswitch-Blog

Tag: mother of the bride

  • Top 15 Items That Need to Make Your Wedding Registry

    Top 15 Items That Need to Make Your Wedding Registry

    Raise your hand if you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and are about to get hitched.

    Hey there. Yeah, you. As if planning a wedding wasn’t hard enough, now you have to think about what you need for your newlywed home. Organizing a wedding registry could either be the most relaxing task you can do, or the most dreadful. It all depends on you and what’s going through that pretty head of yours.

    When I first got married, I only knew how to do one thing, and that was pouring water into an ice tray and throwing it in the freezer. I am a coffee addict but yet never learned how to use the espresso machine (not that K-Cup crap, an actual espresso machine with a filter). I had no idea what a new home would need!

    I did what any inexperienced bride would do and bought several sets of nonstick pans, chef knives, kitchen gadgets I still don’t know how to use, and as many towels as I could (23 to be exact).

    I was still at that His and Hers phase, so almost everything was monogrammed… and boy, do I regret it.

    Well, I’m here today to help you figure out what is a necessity and what isn’t. Remember, in the end, it all depends on your preference, so don’t go registering things you don’t need or don’t know how to use!

     

    Coffee/Espresso Machine

     

     

     

     

     

    I’m just going to go ahead and say it (again). I’m an addict. A coffee addict. I once drank eight cups in one sitting. So you can understand why this would be number one on my list. If you’re an early bird whose work consists of mostly sitting at a desk in front of a computer screen, then owning a coffee machine wouldn’t be such a bad idea.

    Amazon Choice: Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Coffee Maker, Black

    I mean, honestly, why spend $6 bucks every day at Starbucks for fancy coffee when you can save your money and time at home?

     

    Stand Up Mixer

     

     

     

     

     

     

    If you have the counter space, then a stand-up mixer is a great investment. Not only will it be a great addition to any kitchen, but it has been a lifesaver for me when baking.

    Here is a list to help you convince you of what a great product it truly is.

    Amazon Choice: Hamilton Beach 64650 6-Speed Classic Stand Mixer, Stainless Steel, 4-Quart Bowl and Accessories

     

    Food Processor

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    While food processors perform fewer tasks than stand up mixers, don’t underestimate their working power. Most food processors come with separate discs, which help in shredding and slicing food. This is great if you’re short on time or need extra help in the kitchen. Most importantly, they are great for dips and homemade hummus.

    Amazon Choice: Hamilton Beach (70730) Food Processor & Vegetable Chopper with Bowl Scraper, 10 Cup, Electric

    Here are just some ways to use a food processor.

     

    Blender

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Yay! Another multipurpose kitchen product. I know I’m going overboard with kitchen products, but it’s the best room in the house, so you know we have to go the extra mile here!

    Amazon Choice: NutriBullet NBR-1201 12-Piece High-Speed Blender/Mixer System, Gray (600 Watts)

    Now, before buying a blender, keep in mind that a blender and food processor can perform several similar tasks, so there’d be no need to take both. But if smoothies are your to-go-to every morning, evening, and night,   then a more unadorned blender would be better than buying a whole set.

     

    Dutch Oven

     

     

     

     

     

     

    A cooking pot made mostly with heavy ceramic or metal and can be used on your stovetop for nearly everything. It can be used for roasting, making stews, and because it can be transferred into an over at any time, it’s excellent for making casseroles.

    Amazon Choice: AmazonBasics Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven – 6-Quart, Blue

     

    Cooking and Knife Set

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    You will need a set of nonstick pans and pots. You will use them for everyday tasks from boiling your eggs to making lasagne. A knife set doesn’t have to be extravagant, just something useful that will cut fruit, vegetables, and meat.

    Amazon Choice: T-fal C530SC Signature Nonstick Dishwasher Safe Cookware Set, Nonstick Pots and Pans Set, Thermo-Spot Heat Indicator, 12 Piece, Black

     

    Vacuum Cleaner

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Is your new home mostly carpet? Do you own cats, dogs, or any other animal that sheds fur? Do you have babies, toddlers, or teenagers?

    Amazon Choice: Bissell Cleanview Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner, Orange, 1831

    If you’ve answered ‘yes’ to any one of those, then no need to think twice about this one.

     

    Television

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Where else are you going to rewatch every Game of Thrones season and cry yourself to sleep?

    Amazon Choice: TCL 40S325 40 Inch 1080p Smart LED Roku TV (2019)

     

    Bath Robes

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Don’t worry; it doesn’t have to His and Hers. When you invest in quality bathrobes, you will not regret it. Sitting in a towel after a shower is one thing, but sitting in a robe is an entirely different experience. You’ve basically dressed already, so you are in no rush to get dressed.

    Amazon Choice: Classic Turkish Towels Luxury Terry Cloth Bathrobe – Premium Hotel Robes – Made with 100% Turkish Cotton

     

    Bath Rug

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    I know what you’re thinking, but hear me out. A bath rug can really shape the look of your entire bathroom if you know what to look for. Pottery Barn said it best.

    Amazon Choice: Genteele Memory Foam Bath Mat Non Slip Absorbent Super Cozy Velvet Bathroom Rug Carpet

     

    Bed Sheets

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Make sure you know the size of your mattress before purchasing! Also, make sure you’re familiar with their return policy in case the bed sheets do not fit your comforter!

    Amazon Choice: Mellanni Bed Sheet Set – Brushed Microfiber 1800 Bedding – Wrinkle, Fade, Stain Resistant – Hypoallergenic – 4 Piece

     

    Plush Robes

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    For all those early mornings and late nights. Plus the comfort makes it feel like someone is hugging you, and isn’t that what we all need?

    Alexander Del Rossa Women’s Plush Fleece Robe with Hood, Solid Bathrobe

     

    Cotton Towels

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Towels are essential for the bathroom, bedroom, children’s room, and any guest room in the house.

    Amazon Choice: Pinzon by Amazon Collection Pinzon Organic Cotton Bath Towel (4-Pack), Indigo Blue

     

    BBQ Grill

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Great to have when summer comes rolling back around!

    Amazon Choice: Barbecue Charcoal Grill Stainless Steel Folding Portable BBQ

     

    Lawn Equipment

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    If you own a yard, this is something to consider. If you’re a gardener, then you already know the necessities of lawn equipment for your planting.

    Amazon Choice: GreenWorks 20-Inch 12 Amp Corded Lawn Mower 25022, 20 inch

    For my simpler folks, investing in a lawnmower might be something to contemplate.

     

  • 9 Essential Questions to Ask Before Booking a Wedding Venue

    9 Essential Questions to Ask Before Booking a Wedding Venue

    Wedding season is upon us, my good people. Love, joy, and excitement fill our polluted air, and I, for one, am so ready to dance on top of tables and get escorted out by security. It’s only happened once so far, but that doesn’t mean I don’t have a reputation to uphold.

    Finding your dream venue is a chore all on its own. For some, it could be love at first sight and others might need a little more time before saying “I do” to the venue of their dreams. Nonetheless, it’s an exciting endeavor where you and your loved ones will create the memories of a lifetime.

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    To help make this task more comfortable, we’ve come up with nine questions that are a must ask before booking any venue.

    What dates are available?

    No doubt, you have a specific date in mind. Before discussing anything with the vendor, the first thing you need to know is if they are available on your target date. If you are set on a date, and the venue isn’t accessible, then quickly move on. If you’re flexible about the whole thing and are willing to go with the first open day, then finding a venue will be a lot easier.

    How much to rent the space? Plus what’s included in that fee?

    According to Value Penguin, “Couples spend between $12,343 and $14,006 on average for their wedding venue…This cost includes any general location fee as well as food, drinks and incidentals like tables, chairs and linens.”

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    I’m sure this comes as no surprise to many as wedding venues are known to- as my father-in-law says- bite the wallet. If you are trying to stay within a budget, then this is another question you need to get out of the way quickly. Some venues offer food, setup, stereos, lights, and much more with their rental fee, but some offer little to nothing. That means that aside from renting the space, you will need to take into account the tables, caterers, decorations, DJ, and much more.

    If the weather turns, is there an indoor space available?

    “It doesn’t even rain in California.”

    A moment of silence for my dumb friend who decided on a venue in Malibu. Towards the end of February. Did she take Mother Nature seriously? No. Did Mother Nature show her who the freakin’ boss is? Yes. It rained all day and spoiler alert, there was no Plan B: no indoor space, no other venue, nada. Do yourself a huge favor and settle on a site that can accommodate you and your guest in case the weather decides to take a turn.

    Is catering provided, or do I need to bring in my own caterers?

    Critical, critical, and I mean critical that you know the catering situation before you book a venue. If they can provide caterers and food, you need to know what to expect.
    What does the menu look like? How will the food be presented? Will they be able to accommodate their list of foods to those with gluten allergies, lactose intolerance, nut allergies, or vegetarians? How many courses will be provided? Will it be worth the money you put in?

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    Speak to the head chef and get an idea of how things work. If a caterer is not provided, then you will need to discuss bringing in your own caterers and setting up food for your guests.

    What makes this venue a better choice for my guests?

    Look around you. How does the air feel? How is the location? Is there enough parking spots for my guests? Are there enough tables? Chairs? Will there be any handicapped attending and if so, are there ramps or elevators available? Accessibility should be a priority for your guests. There should be at least four bathrooms per 100 people.

    You’ve been a guest at a party before, what would you expect at an event like this? The best gift you can offer your guests is a comfortable environment.

    When can we start setting up the venue?

    If you are responsible for setting up your venue, ask if the location offers any equipment you can rent out. Do the staffing provide any help, or is it an all-me job? Take into account how much time you will need to get everything set up. Some venues come built with beautiful decor, but some can be plain and require extra work, which may cost you a pretty penny.

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    Are there any hotels near, and if so, are you partnered with any of them?

    Several venues have a partnership with nearby hotels so you can score a discount. Think of this one as a plus, not a must. If the location of your venue is far from most of your guest’s hometown, then look into it. After a long night of partying and drinking, most people would prefer to stay close.

    Can we bring in our own alcohol for the bar? If not, how is your bar priced?

    Tough one. Unfortunately, the majority of venues do not allow you to bring in liquor from the outside world. Considering it’s something they can massively profit from, I don’t blame them. Nonetheless, you should be familiar with the range of prices.

    What is the cancellation policy?

    Just like not knowing if the weather’s going to turn on you, you also never know when something else might pop up. You might need to reschedule for several reasons you weren’t expecting. Hell, you may have even found another venue that has won you over. Either way, it’s best to know how much you will be refunded if you decide to cancel. Some places offer a full refund if you cancel far enough in advance, but if you cancel close to the target date, you will have a hard time receiving a full refund.

  • Why Royal Baby Archie Harrison Doesn’t Have a Title

    Why Royal Baby Archie Harrison Doesn’t Have a Title

    Meghan Markle has joined the list of celebrities who want their child to lead a normal life. The Duchess of Sussex and Suits star gave birth to a healthy baby boy on Monday, the sixth of May at 5:26 AM. According to their official Instagram account, the royal couple has named the boy Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor.

    Yes, it all sounded very American up until that last bit right there. Before we dig deeper into why the name doesn’t have a title, let’s talk more about the reason behind the current name.

    The history behind Mountbatten-Windsor goes back to Archie’s great-grandparents, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. When Prince Philip could not pass his surname onto his children, he hoped that when his wife took the throne, they would hyphenate their name. The Prime Minister at the time (Churchill) did not agree until a declaration by the Queen in Privy Council in 1960. It would become the official last name of the royal family and all male descendants without a title (enter Archie) would bear the name Mountbatten-Windsor.

    So why have the happy couple decided not to use an honorary title for their first born?

    Simply, they didn’t want to. Archie, who is entitled to be the Earl of Dumbarton and seventh in line for the throne, will not be referred to as Lord, Master, Earl, Duke, or Prince. No need to go to royal weddings, or engage in royal events, photo shoots, duties, private schools, or anything that is required for a Royal.

    Just Archie.

    This came as no surprise to many as the Duchess isn’t too big on revealing the private portions of her life. In an interview with Newsweek in 2017, Prince Harry says that “maintaining an ordinary life is a high priority.” Even the plans of their birth and where the Duchess would be delivering were kept in the dark. Some things are just not meant to be shared with the public.

    So what can we expect from the new royal family of three?

    You can still expect to see them on the cover of magazines and attending royal events. But the royal couple is dead set on their child leading a relatively normal life. Even though he has no title in his name (yet?), Archie will forever be entitled to his father’s earldom.

    There’s no knowing what will happen after Prince Charles takes the crown. We’ll just have to wait and see.

  • 6 Bridal Shower Mistakes to Avoid

    6 Bridal Shower Mistakes to Avoid


    Congratulations! You have been bestowed with the honor that BFFs everywhere dream of: the maid of honor.  If this is something you’ve been looking forward to and anticipated since the sixth grade, then good for you! If it was unexpected, and you didn’t see it coming… then have fun pulling an all-nighter on how to throw a bridal shower!

    Here’s the reality of it; it is not easy and requires some work. But while we can’t tell you how to throw a bridal shower, we can tell you what to avoid.

    1. Not Creating a List

    If you’ve read any of the previous blogs, you’ll know that we have a slight obsession with list. Like any other event in life, a bridal shower needs to be planned out to the final detail. You’re throwing a party for another person and you’re reaching for perfection, so composing a to-do list is your #1 priority! You need to make a checklist that helps you in preparing for the event. You need to pick a date, a venue, a theme, and make sure you don’t invite anyone the bride wouldn’t want there. Here’s a short  list to help you get started.

    2. It’s YOUR Money, So Set a Budget

    If this is your first time planning a bridal shower, then expenses will be coming out of your pocket. Sit with the bride and get an idea of what she would like. If you feel like it’s out of your budget, you should not feel pressured to continue! You can kindly ask if you can have a co-host! That way, you won’t go home to an empty wallet at the end of the day.

    The key is not to overthink anything. You can still organize a memorable party without exceeding your budget limit. Prioritize what is necessary and ask fellow bridesmaids on where to buy decorations, food, or anything else without breaking the bank.

    The goal is to spend enough money to throw a beautiful party and still have some left over to buy a gift for the bride.

    3. Communication is Essential

    Even though we want to avoid telling the bride anything, it is vital that you keep communications open with her on a few topics! Anything you’re reluctant about needs to be consulted with guest of honor! A few matters include guest lists, food, and theme. Always ask the bride for the list of names for the guests 4-6 weeks before the party! If her relatives are going to be coming and she wants to keep the party modest, then you need to keep that in mind when setting up decorations!

    This is not a bachelorette party; it’s a bridal shower.

    Also, when getting together that guest list and before sending out those invitations, make sure everything is 100% correct. You don’t want a typo,  a wrong date, or anyone not knowing what the theme is.

    4. Going Solo is a No-No

    Hey, we get it, you want everything to be flawless. You want to bask in the glory and take all the praise. Listen, a bridal shower is a ton of work, and if someone offers to help, accept it. If you need help with arrangements, then, by all means, ask a friend for a hand!

    Something is always bound to fall between the cracks, and you can still be the boss but with a few helping hands.

    5. Granny is Going to be There, So Keep the Fun PG

    Again, this is not the bachelorette party, so save the dildos for Vegas.

    Refer back to the guest list: will there be relatives present? Are the activities appropriate? Will they make anyone uncomfortable? Co-workers or friends might show up with their kids, so let’s not plan anything that might raise any questions.

    6. Not Thinking of Your Guests

    You get a gift bag, YOU get a gift bag, EVERYBODY GETS A GIFT BAG!

    Also, a thank you card. Want to be the MOH that ranks above all the other maid of honors? Arrange gift bags for all your guests.

    You can even customize them by placing each individual’s name on the bag, but that’s optional. Our advice to you when putting a gift back together: keep everything mini. Mini chocolates, mini lotion, mini alcohol bottles, and gift cards for the bride’s closest relatives (mom, sister, grandma).  

    Being chosen to prep a party for the bride is a great honor. When the day’s over, grab whatever champagne is left and go home. God knows you deserve a break. Good luck and happy planning!