Personalized Photo Album Gifts

As a parent, I love going through old photo albums and reminisce about all the fun and memorable times our family has shared throughout the years. Looking at photos of our children's first day of school, each holiday and birthday celebration and all the special moments in between brings feelings of sentimental joy and pride. Even with today's popularity with digital cameras and downloading images to CD's they don't have the intimacy of sharing those moments than with an actual photo album or brag book.

After your wedding and honeymoon is over, imagine giving each of your parents their own photo album with photographs telling the story of  your engagement, wedding ceremony and reception.  A personalized photo album is one of the most thoughtful gifts any parent would take pride in receiving as a treasured keepsake of your special day.

Renee'

Wedding Centerpieces That Inspire

The centerpieces on your wedding reception tables are meant to add texture, create visual interest, and spark conversation among guests.  To create guest tables that inspire, the most important thing to remember is to be creative and pick elements that represent your personality.

This whimsical design is courtesy of the fabulous stylemepretty.com.  The bride and groom from this wedding filled their entire reception with charm and spunky details.  This amazing arrangement captures the true essence of what a conversation starter is and how to include your own spin on ordinary items to make them unique.  The centerpieces used here featured vintage pitchers filled with windmills for their guests tied off with hand crafted table numbers.  The focal point was then surrounded with smaller rose planters and votive candles.  See all the great details of this real wedding inspiration at stylemepretty.com.

When crafting your wedding centerpieces remember to be creative and think about the message you want to convey.  Do you want a wow factor?  Then you may want to opt for a centerpiece that is tall and elaborate to create an eye-catching effect.  If you want to guarantee that conversation flows at your guest tables, than shorter, more textured pieces will be your pick.  The choice is yours and the possibilities are only limited by your imagination.  For more fabulous table creations, check out our top picks below and get inspired!

Photo Credits: First Row: Floral mirrored centerpiece and nature infused Bird blossom tree centerpiece from marthastewart.com.
Second Row: Contemporary lemon and orchid arrangement and long rectangular rose filled centerpiece both from theknot.com.
Third Row: Tall eye-catching baby's breath arrangement and lime filled centerpiece from theknot.com. 
Fourth Row: Bold apple and orchid square centerpiece and beach inspired floating candle with seashell accents both from theknot.com.
Fifth Row: Whimsical chalk outlined guest tables with floral arrangements at varying heights from marthastewart.com and orange lantern arrangement accented by spray roses from theknot.com.

Happy Planning!

Allie

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'