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Tag: Name Change Service After Marriage

  • HOW TO DECLUTTER KIDS TOYS-AND KEEP IT THAT WAY

    HOW TO DECLUTTER KIDS TOYS-AND KEEP IT THAT WAY

    Decluttering your kid’s toy area can not only be stressful but emotional. It’s difficult getting rid of toys that they’ve been playing with for so long, but once your child has outgrown them, all they’re doing is collecting dust. Even though it may cause a problem or even a temper tantrum, you have to declutter, and there’s no better time than spring cleaning. 

    Get ready to throw out the old and welcome the new. These playroom decluttering tips will help you expel all the unwanted, unloved, and unused toys in your home. 

    Where To Start

    Since getting rid of toys can be so emotional, it’s best to start with the easiest items to get rid of. If they’re broken or damaged, throw them in the trash. Next, check to see if there are any duplicates. No child needs four different “make your own slime” kits. One is enough, especially if they’re not using it regularly. 

    More easy toys to throw away are ones that are missing pieces. Board games are notorious for this problem, but so are card games and some dolls with specific accessories. When it’s not possible to use a toy for its original purpose, get rid of it. 

    After that, you can start at the top and work your way down. Go through the shelves, bookshelves, and the closet looking for forgotten items. If they’re stored away in a tub, collecting dust on a high shelf, or hidden in the back of the closet, you don’t need it in your home. 

    Another great way to start is by asking your kids what toys they don’t want anymore or which ones they don’t play with. Tell them that you’re going to donate the toys to other children who will really appreciate them and play with them all the time. Sometimes, knowing that the toys are going to a good home instead of a landfill can soften the blow of losing toys. 

     

    Get The Kids Involved

    Including your kids in the decluttering process can give them valuable life skills. It can help them learn what items they value, when to keep those items, and when to move on. Plenty of adults have issues letting go of material objects, which can be a massive detriment to them. So, get your kids to start decluttering sooner rather than later.

    It’s important to ease them into the process. One of the best ways to do that is to have a couple of similar toys lined up for them to choose from. Gather all of their dollhouses, toy cars, and action figures and allow your child to see how similar they are. Then, let them choose which one to keep and which ones they’re willing to part with. 

    Once they decide and they’re ready to get rid of the other similar toys, make sure you praise them! Getting rid of material belongings as an adult can be challenging, but it can be even worse as a kid. These are some of their very first possessions, and they can hold some powerful memories. 

    Encouraging them to continue to declutter and reassuring them that they will get new toys in the future will help them let go. Remember, you’re not replacing these items any time soon, but when the holidays and birthdays come around, your house will be filled with toys again. 

     

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    What Can You Do With The Toys

    Once everyone has come to their final decisions of what toys you should keep and what toys you should get rid of, it’s up to you to decide how you’ll get rid of them. Luckily, you have a few options. You already know that if a toy is broken or missing pieces, it’s time to throw it in the trash. 

    The tricky part is deciding what to do with the toys that are still in working order. You basically have two choices. You can donate them, or you can sell them. 

    When you donate them, you can donate them to a thrift store, a place that receives donations and gives them to the less fortunate, or you can give them to your friends and family who have younger kids. It doesn’t matter where you donate them, as long as they’re out of your house.

    You have a few different options when it comes to selling toys. Online markets, like Facebook and LetGo, are great if you only have a few toys to sell or if you’re willing to sell in bulk. Selling a lot of toys individually online can take a lot of time and effort, and it might not be worth it. 

    The other option is a garage sale. I love garage sales for a few reasons. For one, you can get your kids involved! They can help price the toys, set them out on display, and they might even get to see what child will be able to enjoy it next. 

    Selling toys is also an excellent option for when your child has a hard time letting go of the items. Talk to them and ask them what they want to do with the money once their toys are gone. Take them to their favorite restaurant or have a pizza party with the money. It will be easier for them to let go of the old toys when they have something new to look forward to. 

    Other Decluttering Tips

    Do your best to let go of the guilt that comes with getting rid of so many toys. In the end, you’re doing the right thing for your home, yourself, and especially your kids. They don’t need to be overstimulated with options when they can use their imagination and the toys you’re keeping. 

    If you know one or more of your children won’t be happy with losing some toys, start the process when they’re not around. Start during nap time, while they’re at school, or on a playdate. You know what toys your kids play with. They might not even notice that these toys are gone. 

    Once all you’re finished decluttering, create a system. The best method to keep your home decluttered is the one in and one out approach. If your child wants another toy or gets another toy for a holiday, it’s time to get rid of one. That way, you’ll always have the same number of toys in your home, no matter what. 

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    Be strong and keep decluttering until you’re left with toys that have value to your child. This process can be challenging now, but once your house is clean and junk-free, everyone will feel much better. Then you can start decluttering your own space!

  • Top Honeymoon Destinations In 2021

    Top Honeymoon Destinations In 2021

    Finding honeymoon destinations in 2021 can be a daunting and challenging task if you don’t know where to look. Lucky for you, you’ve stumbled across this post! We have compiled a ton of local and international locations for your consideration. They’re all open for tourism and ready to supply you with the best honeymoon ever. 

    US Destinations

    If you’re looking for an easy-breezy honeymoon, you’re going to want to stay inside the United States. These locations are easy to travel to, and they don’t have strict travel guidelines like some international destinations. 

    Napa Valley, California, is a romantic and easy to access location in the United States. Wine country is always a great place to honeymoon, but now it’s even better. You can be as secluded and private as you want, even when you’re at the wineries. You can stay distanced from others while you learn about and enjoy all the wine around you. Nothing is better than that. 

    The east coast holds Charleston, North Carolina. A quaint city filled with southern charm. Foodies better watch out because this city might be dangerous for you! There are amazing food and sights around every corner. You’ll also be able to get gorgeous photos of all the colorful and unique streets. 

    Outdoorsy couples might favor Cape Cod, Massachusetts. This spot is a common vacation destination, but it can be overlooked when it comes to honeymoon destinations. Massachusetts is also full of historical sites and museums. Cape Cod is perfect for couples who want to explore and sightsee instead of staying in their hotel room for the entire honeymoon. 

    The final destination in the United States category is a classic. It’s Disney World in Orlando. Their COVID guidelines are changing as needed, but the charm of Disney has not gone away. Most of the resorts, restaurants, and rides are open and accepting excited Disney park visitors. As long as you follow the park’s safety guidelines, you’ll have a fantastic time. It might even be better because the park isn’t at total capacity! Lines and wait times will be much shorter. 

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    International Destinations

    With COVID restrictions, international honeymoon destinations can be much more difficult to find, but it’s not impossible! Some locations are open for tourism and ready to welcome you back. As you choose your honeymoon destination, pay close attention to that countries specific COVID guidelines! 

    Let’s start the international list off strong with Bora Bora! The entire French Polynesia region is open for tourism. You’ll have your choice of all the available hotels, resorts, and bungalows the island has to offer. For couples who want a relaxing and sun-drenched honeymoon destination, this should be first on your list. Your luxury resort will have some great activities planned, but don’t be afraid to get out on your own and explore. There’s a lot to see.

    When you’re looking for a Caribbean honeymoon, St. Lucia is the perfect spot. This stunning and tropical island hosts several resorts and countless beaches. Anyone who wants to come back home from their honeymoon tanned, relaxed, and maybe a bit hungover should seriously consider this island.

    If St. Lucia looks nice, but it isn’t for you, consider Turks & Caicos. It’s also in the Caribbean, but it has a very different vibe from St. Lucia. Once again, you’ll have a vast selection of resorts and spas to choose from on these islands. Take your time to go scuba diving at the barrier reef or stay on the sand and spend time with your new spouse. 

     

    All of these international honeymoon destinations will give you memories to last a lifetime. No matter what location you choose, it will be the right one. You only get one honeymoon, and you deserve the perfect trip for you and your brand new spouse. 

    What You Need To Know While Traveling

    We’ve all been impacted by the pandemic, and honeymoon destinations are no exception. Depending on where you travel, COVID-19 test may be mandatory before entering or leaving a destination. Even if testing isn’t required, you’re going to have moments on your trip where you realize that things have changed. Don’t expect to visit a destination that you’ve been to before and have it be exactly the same. 

    Masks will be required almost everywhere you go, and hand sanitizer will be your best friend. It may seem like the pandemic is coming to an end, but it’s still unpredictable. As the vaccines roll out, everyone will start traveling again, but that doesn’t mean places will be open at total capacity. You might be fighting for a spot at your favorite restaurant or on the plane. 

    Your best bet is to plan as far in advance as possible. Create a schedule for your trip and make reservations as far in advance as you can. This is your honeymoon! You deserve to eat at all your favorite restaurants and experience all the activities you’ve been looking forward to. Don’t miss out because they are completely booked. 

    At the same time, don’t be too disappointed if activities or restaurants aren’t open yet. Depending on the guidelines in that area and the owner’s preference, some businesses might not open until the pandemic is over. Have a backup plan, and don’t get discouraged. You might find a different place that is way better than the first. 

    Most importantly, before you book your trip and before you leave, check your destination’s COVID guidelines! Ensure you know what you’re walking into so you don’t accidentally get stuck at an airport. If you need a COVID test, make sure you have them scheduled and bring your results with you. Schedule a test for when you get home, too, just in case! 

     

    Hopefully, this list will help you find your perfect honeymoon destination. Please, travel safely in 2021, and congratulations on your brand new marriage. You deserve this trip considering all of the craziness that has gone on in the past year. Go have a fun and relaxing honeymoon! 

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  • How To Keep Your Kids Focused On Virtual Learning

    How To Keep Your Kids Focused On Virtual Learning

    The pandemic has been brutal on everyone, but it’s been the hardest on the children. Kids need a stimulating and structured environment to thrive in an educational setting, and they have not been given that setting in over a year now. While they’re great at adapting, staying focused on virtual learning will always be difficult. 

    Now that an entire year of virtual learning has passed, teachers and parents have come up with a few tips and tricks to keep kids focused on school during the day. Some of these ideas could work so well that you’ll continue using them once in-school learning is back in action! 

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    Brain Breaks

    Introducing brain breaks throughout the day can help your child get in the right headspace to learn and focus on school. You can give your child brain breaks throughout the day, but you want to make sure to get them in after lunch, physical activity, or a break like recess. After major stimulation, like after a non-structured break like recess, your child needs to refocus.

    That’s the purpose of a brain break. It shouldn’t act like another lunch break. It should be structured physical movement like light stretching, shaking it out, or Simon Says. It can also be calming or breathing exercises. Make taking brain breaks a habit. When they have a break for lunch or anything else while they’re at home, end it five to ten minutes early so they can take their brain break and get back in the zone before class starts. 

    Checklists 

    Preparing a daily checklist or to-do list that resets every day can help your child reach their academic goals. It will help keep them on track by showing them exactly what needs to get done that day. Lists also help release a lot of stress that comes with having a non-structured day. 

    Lists also allow them to feel like they have control over their day when they can choose the order in which some of the tasks get done. Your child can’t control the school day and virtual learning, but they can have some input about what happens before and after school. 

     

    Use A Timer

    As you’re going through that checklist or your daily activities, use a kitchen timer to track the activity.  Tell your child exactly how long they need to focus on that activity and set the timer. Using a timer does two things. 

    First, it will prevent your kid from worrying about whether the time is up or if they can stop because they will have a physical representation of the time independent from their parent. Second, it will keep the two of you accountable for how much time you’re spending on each task.

    After a while, you’ll have a better understanding of how quickly your child loses focus. You’ll also be able to tell what tasks grab their attention and what they lose focus on quickly. That will be a great help when you’re finding activities that will help keep them on task.

    Interactive Activities

    If you’re lucky enough to have any control in your kid’s school day, try to incorporate interactive activities. If you can’t do it during the day, try adding activities to their homework time. Make math practice physical by showing them how to add and subtract using objects instead of numbers. Do a science experiment with them to keep them engaged or read out loud to them. Twenty minutes of engagement can lead to a few hours of focus. 

     

    Create Connections

    Use the topic or subject that your child is learning to create a connection in your own life. Forming connections from the material to the real world will make them care about the subject more, increase their focus, and help them absorb the information. 

    This is also an excellent chance to use this time to create a deeper connection between you and your child. Sure, they’re doing virtual learning for school, but when they see how interested you are and how much you care, they’ll care too. 

    Connect With The Teacher

    If you notice your child is having difficulty focusing on the task at hand or the material, you should check in with the teacher to see what you can do. Ask them what you can do to help improve your child’s focus. They might have great activities or ideas for you to try outside of the classroom and on breaks. 

    They can also give you information on setting your child up for success before school and how to improve their virtual learning environment. Ask them for any recommendations on interactive activities and any advice they are willing to share. They’ve been doing virtual learning for a while now. They probably have some great tips! 

     

    Healthy Habits

    Eating the right food and getting a good night’s sleep can profoundly impact how your child performs while virtual learning. A tired and distracted kid will lose focus quickly, and when they are focused, they will not retain much information. Fuel them with a full eight hours of sleep and nutritious foods to keep them on task all day long. 

    Positive Reinforcement 

    Your child can’t know if they’re doing a good job if you don’t tell them, so don’t be shy when it comes to giving them praise and positive reinforcement. Compliment them when they do well or get a correct answer and provide them with praise when you can see they’re trying their best. 

    A lack of focus can stem from when a child is tired or about to give up emotionally or mentally. Nothing matters more to a child than having a solid support system. Encouraging words can boost a child’s confidence and have a positive impact on their level of focus. 

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    Test out these different techniques and mix them together. Every child learns differently, so you need to find the right combination of tricks to use for your child. It doesn’t happen overnight, but as long as your child stays focused, that’s all that matters. 

  • 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.