Do you want something unique for the decoration of your reception? Look no further. What you are looking for may just come in the form of a little favor box that you might have otherwise overlooked.

Unique favor boxes make great adornment to dress up reception tables because they are stunning, affordable, practical, and very easy to use. They come in a wide variety of styles and motifs that will suit most types of wedding themes. They are also not that expensive, and in fact, you would be saving a lot because these items double as wedding favors.

You also won’t have any difficulty in decorating the reception tables with these decorative elements because all you have to do is to arrange them around the table centerpiece, and voila, you have put an extra wonderful touch to the table decoration. Alternatively, you can place them in a tiered stand and they can end up being the spectacular centerpiece.

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Do you want to know more about these fabulous favor boxes?

Here are few of the many options you may want to choose from:

1.  Miniature Wooden Box with Lid – exclusive “Tree Design”

This wedding favor box, which comes with an exquisite tree design on its lid, is both eco-friendly and elegant. To add a special touch, you can keep a personal message for your guests inside the box, as well as some delectable treats or a memorable jewelry gift that would remind them of the wonderful event of your wedding day.

2.  Miniature Beveled Mirror Box with Lid

Glamour and style can come in one small box such as this miniature beveled mirror box with lid. You can even have it personalized by sticking a personalized sticker on this magnificent favor box. You would really love this type of wedding favor class, as it can surely add class to your big day.

3.  Miniature Travel Suitcase Container

Perfect for the travel aficionados, this type of favor box is a versatile miniature suitcase container that can carry anything from candies, small gifts, trinkets, beads, jewelry, bubble gums, shells, chocolates, and all sorts of little items. This is ideal for any type of wedding but is most suitable for destination weddings. Show your love for traveling with this type of wedding favor that would definitely be an eye-candy to most of your guests.

4.  Mini Treasure Chest

Having a treasure island beach theme? If so, then there is no better favor box to give away and decorate your tables with than these beautiful mini treasure chests that come with rustic design, a miniature metal latch, a rugged map finish and is constructed with real wood. Inside you can put all sorts of treasures like coins, jewelry, and whatever little item you can think of.

5.  Novelty Popcorn Cartons

Whether you are having a Hollywood glam type of wedding or you and your beau just cannot get enough of the flicks, you can use novelty popcorn cartons to add fun and whimsy to your special day. These old-fashioned popcorn boxes come with little rows or heart designs to add some romantic ambiance to your wedding day. You can even use funny and delightful stickers to add some personality to the carton box. You can use the “He popped the question” or “Topped with love” stickers.

Any guests would love these fantastic favor boxes. You and your future spouse would also delight in these wondrous favors boxes that are not only beautiful to use as decorative elements for the tables but are also very practical as they double as wedding favors.

Wedding table centerpieces are going beyond the basic floral arrangements. Interested in stepping out of that box? Take inspiration from these decorating trends:

1. Go natural

Create a tabletop botanical garden. Hit the local nursery or go online to purchase small potted plants, or if there is time to spare, seedlings. If want to showcase flowers, consider Gerber daisies, tulips, daffodils or orchids in terracotta pots. You can also take the green route with herbs and ferns. Cacti would be perfect for a Mexican or cowboy theme wedding. Another popular option is wheatgrass grown in flat, shallow boxes. The plus side to all this? The plants can double as wedding favors. Just leave a sign next to the centerpiece asking guests to “Please pick one”. Or incorporate a “For you” label on every pot.

2. Dazzle with lights

Make each table shine with a light fixture centerpiece. Use a structural shaded lamp surrounded with flowers at the base (to hide the cords) or studded with blooms around the stem for added visual interest. Place metal-framed lanterns to create a rustic appeal. Or go ultrachic with square paper lanterns. Want something more high-tech? LED lights in water-filled vessels will do the trick.

3. Cast a glow

If your venue is dimly lit, a “candlescape” can imbue drama and enchantment to any dinner reception. Combine votives, pillars and tapers on a single table. Consider mounting them on top of a round mirror for a reflective light effect. You can also float candles on stemmed glasses of varying shapes and heights.

4. Submerge them flowers

Aiming for a serene but stunning look? Push in calla lilies or orchids in a tall-enough glass vessel so they appear submerged underwater. For a beach wedding, create an aquarium-like centerpiece by using a rectangular or bowl-shaped container with corals nestled onto a sand base. Budget-wise, this kind of display will cost you less because it requires fewer stems.

5. Break container conventions

Arrange flowers in martini glasses or soup bowls instead of traditional vases. Coffee pot creamers, sugar holders and teacups would be great for country weddings. Pails dressed up as planters suit outdoor receptions. Mix and match the containers for aesthetic appeal. You can buy them at thrift stores, flea markets or garage sales.

6. Be Zen-inspired

If you’re a minimalist at heart, go with Zen-inspired centerpieces. One option is a willow or cherry blossom branch display. Leave the stems as is or spray-paint them in silver or gold. Embellish with beads, ribbons, or handmade paper birds and blooms. You may even ask guests to hang tags on which they have written down their well wishes. You can also incorporate bonsai trees, battery-powered water fountains, bamboo, origami creations and mini sandboxes.

7. Pick fruits

Try using fruits as the focal point of your table centerpiece. Their rich colors will surely make for vibrant displays. Lemons, limes or clementines packed in a glass vessel are wonderful for summer outdoor receptions. Clusters of apples, pears and gourds would work with autumn weddings, and pomegranates or cranberries at winter celebrations. To add height to arrangements, leave the fruits on their vines or branches.

8. Satisfy sweet cravings

Sweet treats add a fun and light touch to your table décor. To give guests something to munch on throughout the evening, fill in glassware with your candy of choice. Or create an edible topiary using round chocolate pieces. Another trend is to have cupcakes or smaller versions of the wedding cake arranged on a multi-tier serving tray.

9. Pile up gift boxes

To add a surprising element to your centerpiece, stack up gift boxes atop cake stands. Make sure to pick out boxes of different sizes and have them dressed up with ribbons or flowers. Fill in each with candy, soap, candle or any other goodies you want to give away at your wedding.

10. Create an activity area

If you want to see interaction within each table, consider items that guests can play with. Take your pick from board games, glass chess sets or colorful checkerboards. Surround these with glitter or confetti for a decorative touch. You can also have decks of cards and puzzles personalized with you and your husband-to-be’s photo.

Play with the decorations as much as you want to. Remember you can turn your table centerpiece spectacular and memorable with just a little creativity, resourcefulness and imagination.

Coordination is key when it comes to planning weddings. With all the different elements such as gown, flowers, and reception, you’ll want to make sure that each element enhances the other. Flowers are the most common and popular type of centerpieces at wedding receptions. Matching your wedding flowers with your centerpiece not only makes sense, it will also add harmony to your wedding. If you would like to match your wedding flowers with spectacular centerpieces, read on for some cool tips.

Buy in bulk
Choose your favorite flower and decide which colors to use in your wedding. Remember to match your flowers to your wedding theme, if you have one. Once you’ve made your decision, buy in bulk. This way, you’ll get a better deal from the florist. You should also ask about the blooming period of your chosen flowers. Some flowers may need to be bought and delivered a few days before the ceremony in order to be in perfect full bloom for your wedding. If your chosen flowers have a strong scent, think twice before adding these to centerpieces. The strong odors may clash with the food.

Be consistent
To match your wedding flowers and your centerpiece, use the same flowers in decorating the church, the bridal bouquet, and the centerpieces. Be sure to choose a versatile flower that will look good in many different arrangements.

Be creative
You can move beyond exact flower matches and choose different colors of the same type of flower for church decorations, the bridal bouquet, and the centerpieces. You can also opt for different flowers in the same color palette. Still another alternative is to choose flowers by theme, such as spring, English garden, or tropical. If you want to use the same flowers for your wedding decorations and centerpieces, experiment with creative containers. Outdoor adventurers might use miniature lanterns instead of vases.

Add other elements
Avoid overwhelming guests with flowers by adding other elements to your centerpieces, such as fruit or candles. Make sure that your chosen items will complement and enhance the flowers, not overpower them. You can also opt for a personal touch and use copies of cherished pictures or other mementos along with your chosen flowers in your centerpieces.

Hang it up
Instead of putting your flower centerpieces on the table, why not hang these above the table? Dangling flowers will be a creative and unexpected touch that will be sure to wow your guests.

Use flowers for numbers
One fun way to coordinate your wedding flowers with your centerpieces is to use flowers instead of table numbers. Use a different type of flower for each table. Make sure that the flower is easily recognizable to most people.

Incorporate your wedding favors
Your flowers can do double duty as centerpieces and wedding favors. Once you have matched your wedding flowers to your centerpiece, arrange bunches of a single type of flower as your centerpiece. Engrave the vases with the newlyweds’ initials or a special message. Request guests to take a vase of flowers home as a wedding favor.

Go silk.
If your budget can’t accommodate a lot of fresh flowers, you can use fresh flowers only in your bouquet and buy or rent matching silk flowers to decorate the church and use as centerpieces. You can also scour garage sales for old vases that fit your wedding theme. Centerpieces don’t have to be large and costly. A single flower with greenery in a simple vase is elegant and affordable.

Coordinating your wedding flowers to your centerpieces will ensure a complementary wedding that will leave a sweet scent in the minds of your guests.

Cheers To A Great Combination

Shopping is always a fun activity. However, if you are going to shop for your wedding, there is some additional pressure because you want to see to it that every item you buy would contribute to the success of the wedding. Even the wedding favors, you want to get the perfect ones. These 50 fabulous ideas will help you with this matter.

1.  Choose favors that serve multiple purpose

Mini flower pots that double as table centerpiece are always a hit!

2.  Why not do it yourself?

DIY favor projects give you the opportunity to express your talent and creativity. You get to save a lot of money too!

3.  Yummy sweet treats for the sweet tooth

Who does not love chocolates and candy bars? For once, forget about your diet and celebrate with these delectable wedding favors!

4.  Go wild with the favor boxes

Even the simplest kinds of wedding favors can be spiced up with the use of decorative favor boxes that are truly wonderful and adorable.

5.  Save the earth!

Go for eco-friendly items such as the eco-friendly bamboo ballpoint pen with inscription, “Be green, just write,” eco folding multi-use tote made of natural cotton, and eco mini drawstring bag made of 100% organic cotton.

6.  Soaps and bath salts, anyone?

Soaps and bath salts are great wedding favors because everyone takes a bath, right? Not to mention, these favors smell great too.

7.  Intricate designs for visual appeal

The laser carved glass snowflake tea light holders creates a beautiful glow with its laser carved details

8.  Practical and functional favors

Bottle openers, wine openers, tool kits—these are just few of the many items that can be used in people’s everyday lives.

9.  Classic and timeless items

Photo frames and candles—these wedding favors never get old!

10.  Theme, theme, and theme!

Nautical favors for a beach wedding, a fancy Cinderella wedding carriage candle for a fairy tale wedding. The important thing here is to match the theme of the event.

11.  Personalize it

Give more meaning to the gift by scribbling some personal message.

12.  Shop the cyber way

Shop online and get your hands on some of the most beautiful wedding favors ever created!

13.  Miniature versions of everyday items

Miniature travel suitcase containers and miniature tote bags are great and cute wedding giveaways.

14.  The bargain hunt

Shop at bargain or discount wedding stores to save money.

15.  Who does not love love birds?

Give away mini love bird house as a way of saying thank you to guests.

16.  Fancy playful items

Receiving mini slot machines would make you feel like you hit the jackpot!

17.  Adorn the favor with special ribbons and bows

Use these items to make even the simplest wedding favors beautiful and elegant.

18.  Musical CD collection

Buy blank CDs and then ask your techie brother to burn some music CDs for the favors

19.  Go regional

Asian themed wedding favors would complement an Asian themed wedding event.

20.  Some word of advice

Get ideas, tips and advice from family and friends

21.  Something for luck

Horseshoes and miniature “good luck” wooden elephants would be appreciated by anyone who can use some extra luck.

22.  Feed your fantasy

Fantasy favors perfect for a fairy tale themed wedding are great ideas too.

23.  Beachy, beachy

Tropical flip flop candles and nautical sailboats are wonderful options even if you are not going to have a beach wedding.

24.  Artsy and craftsy

Poster colors or mini craft punches—whatever your choice is, any artsy farsty would surely love these items.

25.  Go creative with the favor cards

Match with the theme or make your own!

26.  Personalized ribbons with an attitude

Use personalized ribbons to make the wedding favors more stunning.

27.  Silver items for elegance

Silver-plated bottle or wine openers truly spell class and elegance.

28.  Wines and spirits

Give away mini wine bottles.

29.  Color code it!

Instead of giving away the same item for everyone, why not give away different kinds of wedding favors that carry the same color?

30.  Customized candy bar wrappers

If you are going to give away chocolate bars, cover them up with fantastic custom covers.

31.  Suitability

Choose appropriate wedding favors that are suitable for the theme of the wedding and the majority of the guests attending your event.

32.  Soft and fluffy

Cotton items and mini pillows are soft, fluffy, and wonderful wedding favors

33.  Child’s play

Give away mini children toys that any kid at heart would love and enjoy.

34.  Garden items

Flower seed packets and garden tools are also excellent choices.

35.  Romance is in the air

Give wedding favors that echo your love and devotion for each other.

36.  Aromatherapy

Any guest would love a gift of aromatherapy candles, essential oils or incense.

37.  A hole in one!

Golf related wedding favors are perfect for golf weddings and for golf fanatic couples.

38.  Big and grand

Wedding favors are usually small items but if you want to make a statement, you can try going for medium or large sized wedding favors if you have enough budget for it.

39.  Love quotes

Include some love quotes on the wedding favor.

40.  Sticker happy

Instead of using favor tags, you can use stickers for the wedding favors.

41.  Monogram glam

It has become a trend to include the couple’s initials in invites and wedding favors instead of their complete names.

42.  Handmade paper

Go rustic by using handmade paper to wrap the favor, add pressed flowers and dried leaves for an added spectacular touch.

43.  Rainbow colors

Choose wedding flavors that come in a myriad of bright colors so that they can also be used as decoration for the venue.

44.  Clear glasses filled with trinkets

Fill up clear glasses or small vases with trinkets like candies, shells, crystals, or any other small items. Then wrap the clear glass with ribbon.

45.  Ready, set, go!

Items for people who are always on the go are ideal in this modern fast paced society of today.

46.  Go out of the box

Lollipops, mints, and salt and pepper jars are not typical wedding favors but guests would delight at the fun and novelty of these items.

47.  Sew it

Buy wedding favors online and make it extra special by sewing a cloth packet as its container.

48.  The font

Use stylized or handwritten fonts for the wedding favor cards.

49.  Discount alert

Watch out for discount sales and get excellent deals from wedding favor suppliers.

50.  Know who to trust

If buying online, make sure you go for a reliable and trustworthy store that can provide a secure system for online transactions, good quality products and excellent service.

Keep these tips and ideas in mind for a wonderful wedding favor shopping activity!

Are you going to have a wedding this 2010? If you are like most brides, you would probably be looking for new wedding trends as well as unique concepts and ideas to turn your big day into something that is out of the box. This list of 50 marvelous wedding ideas for 2010 would help you achieve that.

1. Wear a red wedding gown. Colored wedding gowns have become the latest trend in wedding fashion. It is bold, daring, and the perfect way to make a statement.
2. Have an intimate wedding affair. Invite only close family and friends. Nowadays, big extravagant weddings are not anymore expected or seen as practical.
3. Fly off to an exotic location to say your “I do.” Barbados, Bora-Bora, Phuket, Bali, or the Bahamas—take your pick!
4. Skip the veil and wear another kind of headpiece. Opt for a wide brimmed hat, a floral headwear, or a princess tiara.
5. Hold a fun lottery game during the reception.
6. Have a honeymoon registry. This can be used in lieu of the regular wedding registry.
7. Opt for a breakfast reception. This is something new, and something that would give your pockets a relief.
8. Give disposable cameras to family and friends so they can capture priceless candid moments during the event.
9. Sing while walking down the aisle. Who said that only the wedding singer could sing during this event?
10. Do something new with the wedding traditions. Instead of tossing the bouquet, why not have a “pass the bouquet” game for more fun and excitement?
11. Serve vegetarian dishes during the reception. Vegetarian dishes need not be exotic vegetable dishes that guests would not enjoy. You can serve delectable carrot cakes, stir-fried vegetables, green salad, artichokes, pasta with marinara sauce, and so many more.
12. Go green! Reduce consumption of energy by opting for a day time outdoor wedding and give away eco-favors like flower packet seeds and mini potted plants.
13. Wow the guests by having a unique entrance by riding a helicopter or a jet ski.
14. Hold the wedding at night. The night provides a romantic ambience for your wedding ceremony.
15. Have a 1940’s or 1950’s wedding theme that would transport you back in time.
16. Choose an exotic venue. Not often do you see couples get married in a safari or on a mountain cliff.
17. Give souvenir invites. These are invitations and souvenirs rolled into one. Even if the guest would not be able to attend, he/she would still have something to remember your big day with.
18. Have a scrapbook guest book that you made yourself instead of the regular one.
19. Pass around a journal book in lieu of the guest book where guests can jot down their fondest memory of the bride and groom.
20. Decorate the whole wedding venue yourself with the help of your family and friends. DIY weddings are still very big this year.
21. Send e-vites instead of paper invitations to save paper, ink, and energy.
22. Make a musical video presentation to be played during the reception.
23. Decorate tables with centerpieces that can double as wedding favors. A tiered stand with mini potted plants is a good example.
24. Make a documentary film on your love story and play this during the reception program.
25. Hire a caricaturist to draw your guests. Sign the artwork and give this as a wedding favor.
26. Scribble personal notes on each of the wedding favors. The personal touch would make the favor more meaningful.
27. Have an assortment of cupcakes to stand in for the wedding cake.
28. Serve cocktails or finger foods during the reception. This is a delicious way to give your pockets a break.
29. Hire a face painter to paint your guests’ faces according to the theme.
30. Have a dessert or tea reception in the middle of the afternoon.
31. Invite your guests to a surprise wedding reception. This works great if you had a secret destination wedding.
32. Create a website for your wedding to keep family and friends updated regarding the wedding details.
33. Don’t keep the kids out. Weddings usually try to ban the kids. Make your event more youthful and fun by including the children.
34. Write an online blog where guests can keep track of planning and preparations for your wedding.
35. Use a cake topper with a funny twist.
36. Give away homemade cookies or cupcakes as favors.
37. Let the bridesmaids choose the style for their dress. As long as they keep up with the theme and color motif, it’s all good!
38. Say no to vanilla and chocolate. Choose a unique flavor for your wedding cake such as carrot, cranberry, or pumpkin.
39. Shop for wedding items online. This would save you time, energy, and money!
40. Wear a mini wedding dress. Super short dresses are making their way to wedding fashion this year.
41. Pick bright and vivid colors for your motif.
42. Hold the wedding ceremony in your own backyard or garden.
43. Enter the ceremony venue through a non-linear wedding aisle. It can be a circular aisle or a multiple-aisle.
44. Give out practical wedding favors and thank you gifts that the guests could actually use in their everyday lives.
45. Go for a rock and roll theme and hire rock bands to play during your wedding. This is perfect for a young couple with high spirits. Warn the elderly guests prior to the event.
46. Opt for balloon decorations in lieu of flower decors
47. Decorate the table with an edible centerpiece that guests can devour during or after the meal.
48. Sing your wedding vows.
49. Recite your wedding vows as poems.
50. Wear your hair down. Not only literally. Don’t stress yourself too much, let loose, enjoy, relax, and have a blast!

Having a wedding 2010 is all about elegance, simplicity, drama, fun, and unique ideas that would help make this event something that people would never forget. You do not have to do all the ideas mentioned in this article, but you would surely want to include a bit of these and then use the others as inspiration to come up with your own unique wedding ideas.

Setting a wedding budget is a great way to start your lives together. You should both be part of setting up finances and the choices involved. By having a plan, you won’t exceed your financial means while including all the elements you really want for your special day.

Decide who will pay for the wedding. In days gone by, the parents of the bride and the bride paid. Today, brides sometimes pay themselves but often the bride-to-be and her fiancée share the expenses. The groom’s family traditionally pays for the rehearsal dinner and part of the honeymoon but may choose to offer additional financial support. Be upfront with your parents and find out how much they are willing to contribute. Gently let them know you will be making the final decisions about your wedding and be prepared to pay for your day yourselves if strings are attached to money offered by your families.

Once you know who will pay for the wedding, determine the funds available to cover the costs. Write down this figure and develop your wedding day around your budget. Discuss your dreams, themes and ideas then work within your designated budget to make them happen. The longer you have, the more bargains you will be able to find. Planning a last minute wedding often incurs larger expenses because you simply don’t have time to shop around.

Maintain a wedding binder to write down expenses and keep receipts. Use receipts as proof deposits were paid and to keep track of ongoing expenses. You can also keep on online ledger and comparison sheets on a computer program such as Excel. Compare vendors and maintain a record of what you’ve paid out for your wedding on the computer if it’s easier for you. Have a folder for physical receipts and store it in a safe place.

Get price quotes from vendors. There are several vendors that are likely to be part of your wedding day including a florist, caterer, photographer, music, entertainment and limousine driver. Find out if the vendor has a minimum charge and the estimated cost for your event. Keep the quotes organized in a folder or binder so you can easily refer to them when making your final decision. Shop around for wedding rings, a bridal gown, bridesmaid gowns and tuxedos.

Decide your guest list so you know how many people to budget for. If you want a large wedding, you may have to choose a buffet over a four-course meal. On the other hand, you may decide to have fewer guests and have the lavish dinner. Remember the number of guests also impacts the number of invitations, thank you cards and wedding favors.

It’s your wedding day and you should both be able to have it your way. Discuss your priorities so you can make sure they are covered as you are setting a wedding budget. Review your purchases and decide what is most important. Consider the lasting moments of your wedding that will be with you long after the party ends, such as your wedding rings and photographs. You made decide to spend a bit more on these items and make your own wedding invitations and centerpieces. Avoid trying to keep up with friends or family and make decisions based on your own finances and preferences.

Don’t be embarrassed to ask for referrals from friends or family. Often people are willing to recommend someone they had a great experience with and you may enjoy a discount. Sometimes people have friends or family who are willing to offer their services for less. Even when you deal with vendors you don’t know, barter to get the best deal.

Setting a wedding budget also ensures you are not interfering with your long-term financial goals as a couple. If you max out your credit cards before you even get married, you are already starting with money stresses. Plan a realistic wedding in accordance with your financial circumstances. This type of organization and discipline will help you plan for a house and family in the future.

Remember, setting up a financial plan gives you the experience to handle the larger financial situations awaiting you as a married couple.

Red Wedding Theme

Red is the color of love. It also represents passion and devotion. Because of the meanings it stands for, red is a terrific color to use for weddings. If you are thinking of having red as a color theme for your wedding, you have made the right choice. This color can turn your wedding into a fantastic, sizzling, and sexy special day that your guests would surely remember for a lifetime. To help you with the decorating aspect of the wedding planning, here are some fabulous red wedding decoration ideas.

Red roses and flowers

Roses are red, violets are blue, what’s a red wedding without red roses for you! Red roses are surely a staple for most red themed weddings and for a good reason. These are the ultimate symbols of love and passion and can surely complete the wedding occasion.

Arrange red roses in bouquets, tie with a satin red ribbon, and use them to decorate the place. You can also use these blooms in combination with other kinds of flowers such as calla lilies, alstroemeria, hypericum berries, Gerbera daisies, tulips, or carnation for a more beautiful and elaborate floral arrangements that can be used to adorn pews, buffet tables, or pillars in the wedding venue.

Heart-shaped balloons

Heart-shaped balloons in colors red and white can be used to decorate the entire wedding venue. They can fill up the ceiling, adorn the couple’s gazebo, or clustered as a pillar arrangement. Heart shaped balloons can also be used as a less expensive alternative to flower decorations for the buffet table and the couple’s table.

Red organza for the chairs

Cover chairs with white or gold cloth and then tie them with red organza for a spectacular visual effect. Alternatively, you can cover the chair with a red cloth, tie it with a wide white organza ribbon, make it into a bow and then insert red roses within the bow for the final touch.

Red napkins on white linens

A striking combination for the table decoration would be to cover up the table with a crisp white tablecloth and top them with nice red napkins. Scatter rose petals all over the white tablecloth for an eye-catching contrast.

Red table centerpiece

Aside from the table napkins and linens, you also have to think about the table centerpiece, which will serve as the focal point of the table decoration. Red crystal or glass vases are excellent to use for your red bouquet centerpiece. You also have the option to make use of a set of red pillar or votive candles placed on a mirror base, adorned with white and red rose petals or crystals. White floating candles on a wide clear vase with red-colored water is another great choice for a marvelous red centerpiece.

Wedding favors

Red boxes of chocolate candies, fudge cake wrapped in red cellophane and tied with red satin ribbons, and the whimsical gumball machine in traditional red are just some of the many options on wedding favors that can double as decoration for the reception.

Red weddings can surely captivate people’s hearts. It is a bold, alluring, and passionate color that resonates the couple’s fiery love for each other. Have fun on your red wedding!

Garden Wedding

Tying the knot with your beloved in a garden setting is what you have always dreamed of and now that the time has come, you cannot contain your joy because your spouse-to-be shares the same sentiment.

Having a garden wedding has various perks. For one, there are so many venue options such as city, state, or town parks, summer camps, horticultural facilities, arboretums, your own yard, or the yard of family, relatives or friends.

Aside from that, the beauty of nature and the natural wonderful breeze make a very fresh and cool ambiance for the wedding. Of course, there are also some disadvantages like having to rent additional equipment (tent, chairs, tables, etc) and some difficulties such as bugs, bees, rain, windy conditions, logistics, electricity, and so on.

Even though there are some disadvantages, you do not mind. After all, you and your partner both agree that the pros certainly outweigh the cons. To help you plan a perfect garden wedding, here is a practical guide on different aspects of this kind of wedding that you need to take care of:

Venue

When picking a venue, it would be a good idea to hold your wedding in a place where a wedding has been held before. This would make it easier for you in terms of logistics planning. See if there are electrical sockets or extensions available, and places where you can set up the decoration.

If you are going to hold the wedding in your yard or that of someone you know, make sure the space is large enough to accommodate all your guests. It is also a good idea to rent a tent for the venue even though you do not think it is going to rain since you can never really predict the weather and that even if it does not rain, the tent can be a good cover from the heat of the sun.

Couple In Garden

For your garden wedding, the basic equipment you will need include tent, tables, chairs, altar, sound system, and bathroom facilities. Arbors, arches, gazebos, and plant hangers are also necessary for decoration purposes. Most of these things can be rented, even the portable toilet. The portable toilet can be optional if the reception would be held somewhere else or if there is a bathroom available nearby.

Flowers

Holding your garden wedding means you do not have to worry about flowers anymore, right? Not necessarily. Even though the garden will naturally be filled with beautiful and fragrant flowers, you still have to think about the flowers that you will use for the table centerpiece or the altar decoration. It is very important to ask a florist what kinds of flowers will stay fresh the whole day even when exposed to sunlight.

Invitations

Be sure to inform guests that your wedding is going to be held outdoors so that your guests would know what to expect. Having a garden wedding means you can have a less formal invitation so be a little playful with the invitation and do not make it look too uptight. An invitation printed on a handmade paper with pressed flowers and raffia ribbon is ideal.

Wedding favors

As for the wedding favors, give guests something that would commemorate your outdoor wedding. For example, votive candles, bags of dried flowers, hand painted terracotta pots and packets of flower seeds are just few of the many great ideas for wedding favors.

Wedding Cake

Choose a wedding cake that will not easily melt under warm conditions. A cake with fondant icing may be your better option than a cake with butter cream icing. Another choice for you to consider is the wedding cupcake tower, which is just as nice and stunning but not as expensive.

Food and Drinks

For a garden wedding, buffet-style is more appropriate than a formal sit-down dinner. Grilled dishes are especially a hit for outdoor weddings. Not only are they sumptuous and tasty, they are also easy to cook and affordable. Drinks such as lemonade, sweet tea or punch can be placed in clear glass jugs.

Decoration

Decorate the trees with lights, tulle, ribbon, and some flowers. Do the same thing for the trellis, arbor, arch or the gazebo. Add some balloons with the same color as the wedding motif for a fun whimsical effect. Line up the aisle with candles placed inside paper bags. You will be surprised at how nice the effect of this would be especially for an outdoor wedding held at night.

Garden weddings are truly exquisite and beautiful. Make sure you follow all these tips but at the same time enjoy planning the event. Have fun!

Country Wedding

Do you want a wedding that exudes a rustic charm and fresh ambiance? Do you want to hold your big day in a venue reminiscent of your days in the rural area? Do you envision walking down the aisle in the middle of a hayfield and when you look up you see the enormous blue sky?

If you answer yes to any of the questions above, the perfect wedding theme for you would have to be a country wedding. Country weddings, which are some of the most popular themes among couples, are truly beautiful and nostalgic. And with so many fun and ideas for a country wedding that you can find below, planning can be a cinch.

Color Palette: Earthy Tones

When you think of a country wedding, think of earthy tones for the wedding motif color palette. Yellow, gold, tan, umber, brown, green, sage, russet, celadon, cinnamon, orange, and red are just some of the many options you can utilize for your country wedding. Do not limit yourself to one color, you can incorporate as many earthy tones in the decoration of your wedding as you like but choose one or two to be the dominant hues and to serve as the primary motif color.

If you really want to go out there for that ultimate rustic wedding, you can choose to tie the knot with your sweetheart in a cornfield, barn, cabin, farm, ranch, wheat field, plantation, or in any part of the rural region that has breathtaking scenery. Make sure you use a tent for this kind of location and that you book your guests accommodations on the nearby lodges and inns.

If you do not want to go far, having an outdoor location like a garden themed country wedding can also be a wonderful idea. If you want to hold it indoors, a country church can also be an option. With so many options for venues, you surely would not run out of ideas where to hold your precious country wedding.

Country Style Decoration and Centerpieces

The right decoration can give your wedding the right country ambiance. You can decorate your reception area with tea light candles floating on water-filled mason jars or votive candles placed in terra cotta pots.

As for the centerpiece, you can collect a bunch of cheery sunflowers and place them in galvanized pails. You can also make use of Shasta daisies or Gerber daisies and tuck them in tall clear vases filled with dried coffee beans. Potted plants also make terrific centerpieces that can double as wedding favors after the ceremony is over.

Accent decorative pieces for a country wedding include grapevine wreathes, lanterns, gourds, pumpkins, ears of dried corn, wheat stalks, burlap bags, honey jars, raffia ties, cinnamon sticks, dried peas, and coffee beans.

A Touch of Country

• Tie the chairs with russet ribbons and insert some wheat sheaves or roses.
• Instead of having the usual table and chair reception, you can do it in a picnic-style, much like how they eat in the countryside.
• Fill galvanized washtubs with ice and drinks.
• Serve homemade dishes like pot roast, corn bread, fruit pies, and pumpkin cake.

You love the casual and laidback nature of country weddings. You adore the fact that they are beautiful and exquisite at the same time. You and your partner would surely have a time of your life with this kind of wedding theme to celebrate your special day. Enjoy!

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Gosh it’s late – the day is almost over! But I promised you an inspiration board, so here it is. I’m not sure it turned out quite the way I was hoping, but I do think it gives you a good idea of the color scheme and the relaxed backyard feel, which is really what an inspiration board is all about – the ideas. I had Jordan Ferney’s darling purplic picnic box lunch in mind when I pulled these images together, and though there is something Spring-like to this look, I think it could work for a late summer or early fall picnic wedding reception too.

Mood: relaxed, sweet
Palette: grape sorbet, deep red cherry

{click image to enlarge}

Top row from left: photo by Jessica Kettle, concord grape sorbet from Martha Stewart Weddings, lilac centerpiece (from Nole’s beautiful wedding!) photo by Punam Bean, magenta envelope with calligraphy photo by Corbin Gurkin
Row 2: dahlia and strawberry centerpiece by Studio Choo, purple felt ring pillow by ssdksy, little cake via Twigs & Honey, purple dress with belt by Ban.do
Row 3: pinwheels from Hatch Creative Studio, lilac bouquet by Claire Bean for Brides, purple picnic box by Jordan Ferney for Project Wedding

Outdoor weddings have become a trend for couples who are looking for a wedding that is beyond the traditional. The fact that an outdoor wedding ceremony is already surrounded with beautiful scenery makes it even more popular because this means fewer expenses for the decoration. With so many outdoor venues to choose, finding that perfect place to hold your big day is not too much of a difficult task.

Finding inexpensive ways to decorate your outdoor wedding should not be too hard either. Here is a practical guide that will help you come up with nice and wonderful decorations for your outdoor wedding without going beyond your budget.

Where, oh where?

The venue of the outdoor wedding is one of the factors that will determine what kind of decorations to have. Since outdoor locations vary, you have to make your choice first to make the decoration planning simpler and easier. Some of these ideas will help you get started:

Beach – White folding chairs, tropical flowers, tiki torches, driftwood decorations, centerpieces made of shells and sand

Backyard – Printed backdrops, tarpaulins, lattice fences, trellis of flowers, wire arch of flowers or balloons

Garden – Floral arrangements, garlands, tulle, lights, tea light candles

Park – Flowers arranged neatly on pills or columns, balloon sculptures, candles, Grecian columns

Table Centerpiece: Center of Attraction

Table centerpieces are some of the most important elements of wedding decoration. To save on this aspect, try making it a do-it-yourself project with the help of your bridesmaids or friends. Here are some table centerpiece ideas that are easy to make.

• Put a candle inside a tall glass, wrap the glass with thin handmade paper and you will have one elegant piece of a candle table centerpiece.
• Find some mason jars at home, put some flowers in it and tie the jar with a raffia ribbon.
• Borrow some small potted plants from your dad’s garden and decorate the pots with satin ribbon.
• Get a hold of a clear vase, fill it up with sand, and top it off with seashells, starfish and other great finds on the beach.
  

More Ideas on Inexpensive Outdoor Wedding Décor

• Use tulle to hang around the edges of gazebos, podiums, aisles, trellises and so on. Tulle is an expensive material that can add a touch of class to your wedding.
• Do not tie all the chairs with a bow tie, have it on every other chair only or only on the chairs located near the aisle.
• Opt for balloons to decorate a wedding trellis or arch. If you really want to use flowers, choose those that are grown in your area and are in season.
• Rent a tent. It may add to the cost of the wedding but it pays to be sure that your guests will be kept safe from sudden burst of rains or extreme heat. If possible, find a venue that provides free tent covering.
• Gather some friends to trim the lawn in your backyard. To save the extra cost of hiring someone to manicure the lawn, turn the chore into one afternoon of fun and enjoyment by making it a time to do the chore together and have some bonding moment.
• Use candles for lighting. Instead of equipping the venue with light bulbs that cost a lot, use candles that would even add a dramatic effect to the event.

Outdoors weddings are always fun. Not only do people get to enjoy the wonderful warmth of the sun and the cool breeze, the beauty of nature also makes the event beautiful and stunning. To ensure that you make the most out of your outdoor wedding celebration, keep all of these tips in mind.

Source: This article was submitted by Wendy L. Bishop.

The day you have been dreaming of has finally come. In a few months’ time, you would be walking down the aisle to exchange vows with the man of your life. And of course, it makes sense that you would want the event to be as perfect possible. This can be made possible with a little help from family, friends, and some wedding items like candles that can beautify the occasion. Here are 12 tips on how to use candles for your special day.

1. Have a candle-lit wedding ceremony.

Having a candle-lit ceremony is romantic and at the same time cost-effective. This idea, which is suitable for evening weddings, can surely contribute to the uniqueness of the event.

2. Scatter votive candles around the reception area for a romantic ambiance.

For a more dramatic effect, make sure to keep the lights dimmed a little, and have clusters of votive candles placed on top of the tables, the bar area, and the buffet table. This evokes a romantic but festive atmosphere that would make it easy for the guests to have a grand time.

3. Place tapered candles in mason jars and hang as lanterns.

Another great way to produce a dreamy ambiance is to hang mason jars with candles around the ceremony or reception venue. Tie raffia ribbons around the mason jars to add visual interest.

4. Put votive candles above a mirror for a nice wedding centerpiece.

This type of wedding centerpiece is not only cost-effective but is also very beautiful and elegant, as the flame on the candle would cast a beautiful glowing reflection on the mirror.

5. Decorate the altar with candles

Since the altar is the focal point of the ceremony venue, you would want it to be adorned with various pillar and votive candles to lighten it up. This is especially useful if your wedding is going to be held at nighttime.

6. Line up the aisle with glowing candles

Walking down the aisle would not be any more beautiful than if you do it with gorgeous glowing candles on the side.

7. Make a floating candle table centerpiece

A floating table centerpiece is inexpensive, easy-to-make and best of all, spectacular. Just get a clear vase with a wide opening. Pour some water in it and have votive candles float around the vase. Drop some food coloring on the water to give it a nice shade. Scatter some rose petals on the water for more visual effect.

8. Have floating candles in the swimming pool

If there is a swimming pool in the wedding venue, be sure to have floating candles light up this area. The result will be a dramatic decoration for your wedding event.

9. Put candles inside a clear glass, wrap the glass with handmade paper

Another idea for a table centerpiece is to get a clear glass, put a pillar candle inside and wrap around a handmade or colored tissue paper around the glass but leave the top open. Light up the candle, and voila, a wonderful table centerpiece.

10. Place candles inside vintage lanterns

Vintage lanterns can give your wedding that classic look and you can use votive candles to place inside the lanterns.

11. Use personalized unity candles

For the unity candles, you can add personality to them by having your own words printed on the candles.

12. Give out scented candles as wedding favors

Scented candles are great wedding favors that would not require you to spend much. In fact, you can even make your own scented candles at home. Just be sure to complement the scent of the candles to the overall theme and feel of your wedding.

Candles are some of the most versatile and beautiful items that can turn your wedding into one special and memorable event. With the wide selection of candles that are available in the market today, you will not have a difficult time finding the ones that can complement your big day.

More Decorative Candle Ideas:

Candles come in many different forms yet always add a romantic element to any decor. Select from our range of popular styles and colors.

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Pears on a pedestal and musings in milk glass, here are a few eco-friendly centerpiece ideas to inspire the brain. Vintage milk glass and edible centerpieces make for a great way to reduce waste and incorporate family heirlooms in your decor. My favorite is the first picture – the grain of the wood, the patterned fabric, and the rich color of red create such a lovely effect.

by Jane Flanagan

by Kimberly Shaw Graphics

by Kimberly Shaw Graphics

by Lepiaf.Geo

Many couples choose a fall theme wedding because of the cool air, magnificent colors and outstanding autumn atmosphere. Both elegant and memorable, autumn theme weddings can feature a variety of unique ideas.

Incorporate the deep hues of brown, red, orange, bronze, gold and beige into every aspect of your fall wedding. A romantic, sophisticated or rustic mood can be created using this warm fall colors. You also have the options of selecting gown in a variety of colors with either long or short sleeves.

Autumn flowers add to the mood of your fall wedding. Include favorites such as dahlias, spider mums, chrysanthemums, sunflowers, heather, wheat and sprigs of berries in your bouquets and on the tables. Decorate with colorful garland and include vanilla scented candles or potpourri at each table.

Decorating in bronze add to the elegance of your fall theme wedding. Both bronze and copper are ideal metallic accents for fall weddings, inspiring thoughts of copper kettles, fireplace décor and frolicking in fall leaves. Fill small bronze colored buckets with potpourri as favors for your guests. Fill copper kettles with dried fall flowers as centerpieces for your tables. Scatter silk fall leaves around your guest book table for an authentic autumn feel.

A Halloween fall theme wedding is another exciting idea. You can use a simple Halloween theme by using mini jack-o-lanterns on the tables and pumpkin scented tea lights. Decorate your wedding cake with orange, yellow and brown. If you prefer a full-fledged Halloween theme, invite all your guests to come in costume. This is a great way to include the kids in your wedding day. Bob for apples and give out trick or treat bags filled with gourmet jellybeans and prestige chocolates as wedding favors.

A traditional harvest theme is also a great way to celebrate your fall nuptials. Instead of having the wedding in a garden, park or backyard, rent a barn. Decorate with fall flowers, pumpkins, hay and black-eyed Susan. Get a square dance caller and give out cowboy hats to all your guests. Combine a western theme with your fall favors for a fun-loving wedding day nobody will forget.

A fall theme wedding uses a variety of unique ideas, colors and accents. Thanks to Mother Nature, you have all the beauty you need for your wedding day by simply using the awesome autumn atmosphere.

Wedding reception table decorations show off your theme and give your guests an easy way to get involved in the party was soon as they arrive. Your guests are never unsure or bored when you use interesting wedding reception table decorations.

Have wedding directional signs posted so your guests can find the wedding reception tables when they arrive. This will immediately make your guests feel more comfortable. The first thing your guests will look forward when they arrive at the reception area are place cards to figure out where to sit. Use tent cards or number holders to number the tables so guests easily locate their table.

Use a themed place card at each plate setting with the guest’s name. Themed place cards may be elegant roses on ivory or shaped like a seashell. Add elegance to your themed place cards by displaying them in place card holders. Even plain place cards look dynamic in a traditional round silver place card holder or a blossom vase filled with a single silk bloom. These place cards and holders can be favors for your wedding guests.

After your guests sit down, they will look around at the other Wedding reception table decorations. Napkins and tablecloths should match the wedding party and theme. Include napkin rings for a elegant touch.

Wedding reception table decorations are not complete without flowers, whether live or silk. Flowers may be professionally arranged or you can do it yourself with a bit of creativity. Select square vases in different sizes as a centerpiece with visual interest. Fill them with water and add polymer pearls that expand into colorful spheres. Even if you use silk flowers, you can add water for a realistic effect.

Table centerpieces bring life to your reception tables but should not impede your guests from talking or looking around. Put a double heart dish vase in the center of each table filled with nuts and candies for your guests to snack on. Delight your guests with a heart shaped fondue table centerpiece filled with melted chocolate and strawberries.

Bring color and theme to your table decorations with clear cylinders filled with candies, mints, shells or rocks and decorated with ribbons. Finally, even the wedding favors you give to your guests are wedding table decorations. Mini beach bags filled with mints are perfect for a destination wedding. Silver plated photo frames with a picture of the happy couple will be treasured by all your guests.

The perfect table decorations reflect the theme of your days and become lasting keepsakes when the party ends.