Wedding Shopping Advise for Online Shoppers

Many brides are finding themselves doing a lot more internet shopping these days. It is much more convenient for the bride on the go. I have a few tips for making your online shopping experience a little better.

• Don't be afraid to ask for samples. If you are looking at ordering napkins, bags, matchbooks and anything that the color is going to coordinate with your wedding, you should also ask to see if samples are available. Paying 5-10 dollars for a few samples could save you hundreds in the long run.

• If you are unsure, always ask. Most wedding companies would be more than happy to help you with your order.  It is always best to know what you are getting rather than guess at what you are getting.

• Check the security and credentials of the website. Unfortunately these days we all have to be careful when dealing with internet companies. If the company is legitimate you will be able to find that information on the website.  If you can't  find the company's credentials, call the company and ask them where it is located on their website.

• Always read the instructions. When placing an order online always make sure that you are reading the instructions for placing an order, especially if it is personalized. When in doubt look for a phone number and place your order over the phone.

The internet is one of the most convenient shopping tools available. There are so many options and ideas at your finger tips.  Just be sure to take advantage of all the resources that are available to you and happy shopping ladies!

Carrie

Dishing Up Sweet Beginnings with Candy Buffets

Lately, I have been hearing more and more from our bride-to-be's that a candy buffet will be a must-have at their wedding reception.  And I say go for it! Candy buffets are a wonderful way to add whimsy and childhood fun to your big day.  The kids will love it (and the adults too!).  How to pull it off?

If you have decided to undergo including a candy table, it is important to include that cost into your wedding budget.  While buying in bulk will save you money, custom candies and gourmet treats do not come cheap.

The best way to make sure your buffet table ties seamlessly into your wedding is to incorporate your wedding colors.  Using a monochromatic palette (different shades of the same color) is an easy and elegant way to ensure your table will look flawless.  Create depth and visual interest on your table by adding jars and containers that are different heights along with ribbons and bows.  Adding decorative name cards to the front of each candy jar describing what is inside is an inexpensive and easy way to add a decorative touch.

To add a custom touch to your candy table, many couples are opting to set out personalized favor bags and boxes for their guests to fill at their leisure or take home to enjoy later.  Personalizing candy favor bags are a great opportunity to include a special thank you message to your guests and a cute phrase like "Love is Sweet, Fill Your Bag With Treats" or "Sweet Beginnings". Check out some of our fave photos below for some inspiration...

Row 1: Candy buffet by Amy Atlas Events.  Row 2: Lunch bags courtesy of marthastewart.com, candy image from Blue Eyed Bride, rock candy from Amy Atlas Events.  Row 3: Candy buffet from marthastewart.com. Row 4: Candy images from Blue Eyed Bride, Personalized candy bags from myweddingreceptionideas.com

Happy Planning!

Allie

Folding Hand Fans Wedding Favors

Folding hand fans are an increasingly popular summer wedding favor that are economical, fun and functional. Family and friends will have a refreshing breeze while enjoying your wedding ceremony and reception. 

One indoor summer wedding I attended, there was a small decorated table placed on each side of the church entrance with a stack of programs and a basket filled with hand fans for each guests to take before being seated. For an outdoor ceremony, I like the idea of having the folding hand fans placed on each guests chair or designate someone to pass them out as your guests arrive. Family and friends are sure to smile and thank you over and over for such a practical and refreshing favor.

Renee'

Wedding Traditions - Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue

If you are planning your wedding then likely you have heard the phrase: something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue. But do you know what the famous phrase means or how to go about incorporating it into your wedding day? Including this tradition into your wedding day is very important to most brides; I know it was for me. Here are some creative tips to help seamlessly incorporate each part of this tradition into your wedding day and the reason that each phrase came to be.

Something Old – Symbolizes the brides past and her family

You could have a piece of lace from your mothers or grandmothers dress sewn into yours.

Put a movie ticket stub from one of your first dates inside of your shoe or in the handle of your bouquet.

Wear a piece of jewelry that you inherited from a family member or loved one.

Something New - Symbolizes the future and the couple’s new life.

Wear a new Piece of jewelry from your future husband or your mother such as earrings or a necklace.

Your shoes.

Your wedding dress.

Something Borrowed - An item from a happily married couple so that there good fortune can carry over.

Wear your mothers pearl necklace.

Wear a bracelet that belongs to your grandmother.

Borrow your best friend's purse to keep all of your wedding day essentials handy.

Something Blue - Symbolizes purity. The color blue was the original white.

Buy a garter that is adorned with a blue charm or blue ribbon

Wear sapphire jewelry.

Wear a blue crystal brooch on the waist of your dress or attach it under the hem.

Brides have been honoring the tradition of wearing an old, a new, a borrowed and a blue item during their wedding for centuries. Although wearing these items is supposed to symbolize good luck for you in the future, they are also just a fun tradition that gives you an opportunity to express your admiration for a few special people in your life on your special day.

Wishing You A Little Luck This St. Patty's Day

This St. Patrick's Day, we wish you all good luck and good tidings.  In the spirit of this festive holiday, here are some adorable DIY inspirations for your enjoyment.

Leprechaun pin from Better Homes and Gardens.  We can all be a little Irish with this festive accessory.  With just an iron, some felt, and glue, you'll have a handful of lucky leprechauns to pass out to friends.  Learn how to create this crafty Irishman at bhg.com.

Shamrock boutonniere from Martha Stewart.  Such an easy and unique way to sport your green this St. Patty's day.  (Everyone will be green with envy.  Heeheee...).  Wouldn't this idea also be great for Irish themed weddings?  Too cute.  Learn how to create this adorable accessory at marthastewart.com.

"May the sun shine, all day long,

everything go right, and nothing wrong.

May those you love bring love back to you,

and may all the wishes you wish come true!"

                                        ~ Irish blessing ~

Allie