Ways to WOW Your Weddings Guests

"The Knot" had an article about ways in which to WOW your wedding audience. Of course I had to read through it to see what their take on it was. Well I must say they had some pretty good ideas and if you have some extra money in your budget, I would definitely consider adding one or more of these elements into your wedding.

Guest Transportation: If you are planning on shuttling your guests from the ceremony to the reception, make the journey part of the fun by renting some cool mass transportation. Hire an old-fashioned trolley to get guests from point A to B. And for extra flair, customize the ride by playing fun music or decking out the bus with signs that reads "Sarah and John's wedding or bust!"

Pre-ceremony Cocktails: Nothing like getting the party started a little early?! Your guests won't be expecting any drinks until the reception, so give them a pleasant surprise by setting up at table of light beverages on the way into the ceremony. Just DON'T serve anything too strong-- think mimosas or fruit-infused iced teas they can sip before taking their seats.

Standout Escort Cards: Instead of a paper card that'll get lost or thrown away, upgrade your escort cards to something worth keeping (or eating!). Try personalized cake pops with guests' names and table runners written on them in icing or on a cute tag, or engraved martini glasses that double as favors.

Thoughtful and (Useful) Favors: Keep your guests comfortable all day by thinking ahead. Planning on dancing the night away... put out a basket of flip-flops (in your wedding colors, of course) so guests can take their shoes off. Having an outdoor reception... well it might get breezy, keep your guests warm by offering up some cozy pashminas. And for the summer outdoor ceremony, provide a station with spray-on sunscreen and a stack of inexpensive sunglasses.

To-Go Valet Gifts: Send guests home feeling taken care of by having your valets place small favors or end-of-the-night snacks in your guests' cards before handing over the keys. No valets? Set out baskets of the gifts, such as soft eye masks with notes that say "Sleep tight!" or even hangover kits... for guests to grab on their way out of the reception.

Convenient Child Care: Hire a babysitter or two... and set up a room so your youngest guests can have a place to go when they tucker out. If it's possible pick a room near your reception location so parents can stop by to check in on the little ones and then return easily to the party. Stock the rooms with snacks, games, and a portable DVD player. Also make sure there is a soft sofa and lots of blankets for those inevitable naps.

Do I Really Need a Wedding Website?

DO I REALLY NEED A WEDDING WEBSITE? I mean really, it's just one more thing that to add to the list of 100 things that I ALREADY have to do!!

I have been hearing this question more and more as I assist couple's with planning their weddings, so thought I would share some insights about the "wedding website".

I am sure some of you are asking what do I need one for anyway? Most of my guests already know how we meet and do I really need to list my registry locations again?!

Well, it depends. Here are some things to consider to see if a wedding website is right for you.

Do I Need a Wedding Website?

• Are you have a destination wedding?
• Will you have out of town guests?
• Will you need to communicate with all of your guests via email or the Internet?
• Do you have more information to share with your guests than you can put on your invitations?
• Do you want or need a place for the guests who can't attend to leave you a note or message?

If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then you NEED a wedding website.

Why Do I Need a Wedding Website?

If you are having a destination wedding, then the majority of your guests if not all of your guests will be traveling, staying in a hotel, eating out and vacationing at this location. Your wedding website will serve as a mini guide for them to know where to stay (because you will book one or two hotel blocks so your guests will all be together and hopefully get a discount on room prices), where to eat (you should share your research on restaurants, bars, and clubs), and what attractions they can look forward to visiting. You would much rather your guest be able to read it on your website... than spending alot of extra money printing this information... or time having to repeat yourself who knows how many times and still end up sending the information because if your family/friends are like mine they like their information on paper and would just ask me to email it to them!!

The same rule applies to out of town guests. Depending on the number of out of towners, you will likely book a block of rooms at a local hotel. You should also point your guests to the best restaurants and/or city attractions. Again... your wedding website can serve this purpose.

Depending on who your guests are, you might need to communicate with them via email. Many wedding websites allow you to enter guests' email addresses and send them mass emails with wedding updates.

If you have more information to share with your guests than will git on your wedding invitations - such as driving directions, seating limitations, or potential parking issues, then you have a wedding website. You don't want to include too much logistical information on your invitations... IT RUINS THE MOOD!!

Having a wedding website can be a beneficial way for guests who can't attend your wedding to feel included in on your BIG DAY. They can leave a message, peruse your categories and look at engagement and couple photos. 

So okay I need a wedding website... which wedding website company is the right one for ME?

Wedding website companies range from the very expensive - up to $99 a year - to moderately priced - around $30 a year - to ABSOLUTELY FREE!! And free sounds good to me!

Free wedding websites offer the couple a place to list their information, but normally don't offer customizable color and font options or themed backgrounds. Your website address would be similar to www.yournamehere.weddingwebsitecompany.com.

Paid wedding websites offer a host of options, such as a personalized url www.yournamehere.com, as well a gift tracking, online RSVPs (which eliminates the need to mail RSVP cards and extra stamps) and seating chart assistance.

Wedding Website lists most of the website providers and offers useful reviews and customer ratings. It is a good place to look for ideas and information regarding wedding website companies. 

I'm Engaged... Now What? 6 Steps to Help You Get on the Right Track

He got down on one knee and asked you to spend the rest of your life with him... Of course you said YES and have been dreaming about this moment since you were young! The day that you have been dreaming about since you were a little girl is going to come true. You start daydreaming of what it will look like and then reality kicks in... WHERE IN THE WORLD DO I START?! No fear... here are 6 steps to help you get everything started on the right track.


1. Start Spreading the News: If you are one who wants to jump on Facebook to share the news immediately or decide keep the moment private a bit longer... Whenever you decide to share the news... Be sure when you start spreading the news that you tell your parents FIRST!! Then other family and friends. You'll make phone calls, of course, but you can also send email, a letter, or use social media. You could even throw a party.

2. Discuss a date: Once the word is out, expect lots of questions, including "When are you getting married?" Reveal a date if you have one, or let curious friends know plans are in the works -- as they should be, especially if you want to hold your wedding at a popular time of year, such as June or over a holiday. Locations, photographers, caterers, and other professionals book up early, sometimes a year in advance.

3. Think About the Big Picture: Envision the type of wedding you both want -- maybe it's the event of childhood dreams or one that reflects your grown-up tastes. Even if you are set on a formal event in a ballroom, considering other possibilities, such as a seaside ceremony or a Sunday brunch, may change your mind or reinforce your choice. The same holds true for selecting the time of day and mood of the wedding.

4. Set a Budget: This is probably one the most crucial things to do before planning a wedding. Be clear and definite about what your budget is. Prior to making any decisions about the style, location, etc., figure out what you have to spend and whether your families will contribute. Make sure you and your fiance are in agreement about your priorities before talking to your parents about budget and logistics.

5. Register for Gifts: Surprising as it may seem, as soon as people find out about your impending nuptials, presents will start flowing in. It's never too early to register, not only to help ensure you get something you like and need, but also to make it easier on friends and family who are pondering what to purchase. Even if you don't select everything right away, at least go to one store and decide on some things for your list. You can always add more later and register at other stores. Try to limit your registry to three places. This way, it'll be easier to manage. And, in case you don't get everything you put down, many stores will keep your registry active for as long as a few years.

6.  Insure Your Ring: You may never want to take off your priceless new treasure, but realistically, you'll have to at times. It's a good idea to talk to an insurance agent about coverage in case the stones or the ring itself ever need to be repaired or replaced.

You will first need an appraisal by a certified independent gemologist; most jewelers will provide this service upon purchase. And make sure you understand all the terms of the policy. Find out whether you are covered if the ring is lost, stolen, or damaged, and what stipulations there are, if any. If the ring is damaged, does the company give you a check so you can have it repaired by the jeweler of your choice, or do you have to use one of their jewelers? You'll also want to know how long the claims process takes.

You might be able to add a jewelry rider to your existing homeowner's or renter's policy; if not, set up a separate policy. And, most important, take very good care of your ring -- when you're wearing it and when you're not -- because that's the best insurance of all.

All pictures and info from www.marthastewartweddings.com

Pinterest

PINTEREST... has become my new daily internet obsession!! If you are planning a wedding, looking for some new fashion ideas, DIY projects, inspirational messages... look on Pinterest!  Pinterest is virtual pinboard. The site allows you to organize and share all the wonderful ideas you find on the web! You can browse pinboards of your friends and with people who have same interests. On these pinboards you can discover new things and get inspiration from people who share same interests as you. People use their pinboard to plan their weddings, decorate their homes, and share their favorite recipes. And let me say I have found a TON of new recipes and so excited to try them all! I would definitely recommend you register on this site... you will become addicted!

Ways to Save on INVITATIONS

Want gorgeous invites that won't push the budget envelope? Below you will find some tips to help get the most bang for your buck!!

1. Forgo Upgrades: Envelope liners, custom ink colors, and hand painted details.... REALLY add up!! 


2. Take advantage of technology: Offset and digital printing run less than half the cost of labor-intensive techniques like letterpress and engraving.

3. Pink the right paper: Imported, handmade, and cottonrag options tend to be more expensive. Cut your cost by asking your stationer to use partially recycled domestic paper for your invitations! 


4. Order extras: Spend now, save later. If you end up needing to print additional invites at the last minute, your stationer may charge you BIG bucks in rush fees.

5. Use your URL: Enclosing a map can be expensive! Print a line at the bottom of your invitation that sends guests to wedding website for directions. They'll even be able to access them from their smartphone.

6. Double Up: Put your ceremony and reception information on one card instead of two!

7. Enlist the Mouse: Instead of enclosing a stamped response card... ask your guests to RSVP online by including a link to your wedding website on the invitation. No more licking stamps for you!


8. Start Writing: Don't want to shell out $3-plus per envelope for calligraphy? Write guests' addresses yourself, and buy a calligraphy stamp for return addresses and RSVP envelopes.

9. Beware the Square: Surprise square envelopes cost more to mail than rectangle ones. (They don't fit through the postal machines and have to be hand-stamped.) Avoid getting dinged with an odd-size surcharge by choosing an invite with standard dimensions.

10. PRINT IT YOURSELF!! Order blank invites and then save a bundle by printing them at home. For the best results use a laser printer and be sure to test print an invite to ensure it's the look your are going for before running all 200 copies!!

Do I Need To Hire A Wedding Coordinator?

I know, I know, you’re on top of the planning process and you have all of the big things worked out. All of us planners totally get it, not everyone needs the full blown deal. But what you don’t know is that hiring a planner for just your wedding day coordination can make a huge difference in not only your stress level, but your overall satisfaction on your wedding day. Given that, I have a few questions for you:

• Do you want to setup the linens, flowers, place cards, menu cards and favors on the morning of your wedding day instead of enjoying a morning of pampering?
• Do you want to have your phone ringing off the hook for every little decision that needs to be made or issue to address during the day instead of savoring moments with your bridesmaids?
• Do you want your mom (or sister, or cousin or friend) lining you up to go down the aisle or coordinating your first dance timing instead of watching it happen?
• Do you want to worry about how long you have to take pictures, where you need to be after the ceremony or when you need to be seated for toasts?
• Do you want your parents to deal with lugging wedding gifts up to a hotel room or out to a car instead and boogying down on the dance floor?

My guess is that your answer to each one of these questions is NO, absolutely not, no way, no how, not even close! And these are just some of the things a wedding planner or coordinator can help you with on your wedding day, but there is so much more! Too often, brides rely on family and friends to help carry out plans on the day of their wedding. But by asking a friend or family member to take on this stressful task, that person will not be able to enjoy the event as a guest, and will end up feeling like “event staff”.

Top 10 Reasons to Hire a Wedding Planner

10. Saves time – Planning a wedding takes an enormous amount of time.  In fact, the average couple spends well over 200 hours planning their special day.  A good wedding planner will save you time and energy by researching vendors, taking care of the many, many details, and coming up with various creative ideas to make your wedding amazing!

9. Saves money – Weddings can be extremely expensive.  However, by hiring a wedding planner, couples can save a great deal of money.  Because wedding planners provide so much business to vendors, they are often able to negotiate discounts for their clients.  Wedding planners are also well-versed at helping couples set budgets and sticking to them.

8. Saves relationships – Weddings are very stressful.  This stress often results in many arguments for couples as well as with family members and friends.  Wedding planners have been there time and time again and know how to avoid such problems before they begin as well as act as a buffer when there are conflicts. Wedding planners are also able to take on the responsibilities often assigned to loved ones so that everyone is able to enjoy the wedding.  Remember, you still want a relationship with your mother well after your wedding!

7. Ensures dreams are made into realities – Most brides have been dreaming of their wedding day their entire life.  Wedding planners work for the couple and ensure that all desires are met (and often surpassed)!

6. Offers advice – Wedding planners have planned countless weddings and know exactly what works and what doesn’t.  They are also knowledgeable on wedding etiquette.  Furthermore, wedding planners are able to recommend competent vendors, based on personal experience.

5. Acts as the “go to person” – The average wedding has at least 22 different vendors.  Combine that with the entire wedding party and all of the guests and that is a lot of people with questions and concerns!  By hiring a wedding planner, couples can simply tell others “talk to the wedding planner!”

4. Creates schedules – There are so many events leading up to the big day!  Couple that with the many things that happen during the wedding and who can keep track?  The wedding planner can!  Wedding planners are well-versed at making detailed itineraries for all involved (including other vendors) and making sure that everything happens on time!

3. Handles crisis – Whether we like it or not, most big events involve crisis.  Who really wants to deal on their wedding day with the bakery not delivering the cake on time or the flower girl throwing a tantrum?  No one!  Wedding planners know how to handle all unforeseen circumstances.

2. Orchestrates from rehearsal through the end of reception – Do you want to be responsible for organizing rehearsal or making sure the bridal party is properly lined up?  How about making sure that the guest who had a little too much to drink departs safely?  Wedding planners orchestrate from rehearsal through the end of the reception, ensuring everything goes off without a hitch!

1. Minimizes stress and maximizes fun! – Hiring a wedding planner ensures that you will have a worry-free and stress-free day, thus, allowing you to enjoy your day like your guest.

Hiring a wedding planner is the wedding gift that you give to yourself! 

Below is what you DON'T want on your wedding day!!