New Trends in Wedding Reception Decor

wedding centerpiecesIt’s true what they say, if you want a beautiful wedding, you must invest on the reception décor. How you dress up the reception venue plays a big role in the overall look of your wedding. It’s not only money that you have to spend for this but also your time and energy. Below, we’ll take a look at the hottest incoming trends for this year so you’d have some ideas on what to incorporate on your big day.

Wedding themes, welcome back!

There was a brief time when wedding themes became a “thing of the past.” It’s not anymore. It has made a comeback for this year, thanks to those brides who just have too much imagination not to have a wedding theme. So, what are your options? A beach theme with drift wood decors, conch shell and star fish centerpieces will complement a seafood dinner. It’s also nice to have an outdoor wedding on a wine estate and serve exquisite wine and yummy cheese all night long. Barn weddings, vintage Victorian and ethnic celebrations are just few of the many other options that you have.

Specialty stations to take you by surprise

Specialty stations are going to be a part of the reception decorations from now on. Let’s start with those decadent candy buffet stations that come complete with pretty scoops and spoons. Guests especially those with a sweet tooth will feel like they’re in heaven when hanging out near this particular station. And because it’s so colorful, it adds to the beauty of the reception venue.

Dessert trolley stations that go around with gorgeous cupcakes, pastries and treats are just as big hit. A photo booth also adds funk to your wedding reception décor. This is usually included for the enjoyment of the guests who will have a grand time doing wacky poses and dressing up in funny costumes in front of the camera.

Be impressed with 2012 colors

What are the colors for this coming year? Wedding experts say that delicate natural shades are huge this 2012. Some color options that you would want to consider for your reception décor are dove gray, pale blue, soft aqua, beige and gold. Let’s not forget tangerine tango, which has just been declared as the pantone color of the year. It’s a beautiful color that you can pair up with various shades like bronze, chocolate brown, pewter gray and even hot pink!

DIYs are still very much in

It’s probably going to take a long time before DIY wedding items become outdated. For table centerpieces for example, DIY still reigns supreme. While you don’t have to make everything from scratch, you may purchase clear vases and other containers from online stores and decorate them yourself. Adding personal touch results in finer details that go a long way in impressing the people attending your special day.

Cupcakes cute and tasty

Cupcakes were a big trend last year. They continue to be so for this year. These colorful and adorable sweet treats make wonderful decorative items. Not to mention, they’re also tasty and appetizing!

Love these trends? Then incorporate them into your wedding!

A Useful Wedding Checklist for Your Canadian Outdoor Country Wedding

Classic Round Decorative BirdcageAn outdoor country wedding in Canada? Say no more! In a word, we know it’s going to be awesome. Rugged terrains that take your breath away, exquisite view of pristine rivers and lakes and an overabundance of natural resources make Canadian weddings a dream come true. Whether you’re getting hitched in Victoria BC overlooking the Olympic Mountains, in Montreal with the unique charm of Mount Royal, or in the hilly terrain of Vancouver, expect to have an extraordinary wedding ceremony that you’d remember for the rest of your life. To ensure that, here is a useful wedding checklist to follow.

  • Determine the setting and location. You already know you’re going to have an outdoor country wedding in Canada but what specific theme? Are you going to be married in an expansive estate, on a beachfront, on the shore of St. Lawrence River in Quebec or near the rugged mountains of Mount Royal?
  • Pick the date. Next, you need to pick the wedding date. This is very important because you’re holding an outdoor wedding. Weather is everything for outdoor weddings. If you’re not careful, what is supposed to be a beautiful event can turn out to be a painstaking affair for you and your guests.
  • Announce your engagement. In Canada, it is customary to have a pre-wedding celebration not only to honor the newly-engaged couple but also to raise money for the event. Traditions differ depending on what part of Canada you’re getting married. For example, in the rural parts of Ontario, guests buy a ticket to the engagement party and the proceeds go to the bride and groom.
  • Determine the details about the wedding. These would include the overall wedding budget, the chosen people for the wedding party, the type of wedding event (e.g. formal, informal, casual and so on), and the color scheme. When choosing colors for the wedding, it’s best to opt for a rustic palette that includes warm orange and red hues. All these decisions would help in the further planning of the wedding event.
  • Create the guest list. The practical way to create the guest list is to determine the number of guests that you can afford according to the wedding budget you’ve set. Then from there, work your way into including the people who are closest to you and your beau.
  • Order the wedding attire and wedding rings. Take your time in looking for your wedding gown. You should also oversee the attire of your groom and the wedding party. As for the wedding rings, both you and your future spouse should spend enough time looking for the perfect pair.
  • Find the officiant, suppliers and vendors. Suppliers and vendors would include the photographer, videographer, caterer, florist, decorator, wedding planner or coordinator, musicians, DJ and many others.
  • Decide on the menu. It’s imperative that you choose a caterer who is experienced with preparing food for outdoor weddings. Remember, the menu should be able to withstand the weather. For example, some salad dressings, sauces and other cold items are not ideal for an outdoor setting.
  • Order and send out the invitations. After that, you should order the wedding favors. Choose wedding favors that are apt for an outdoor location. Personalized chocolate bars that can melt under the strong heat of the sun are not smart choices.

On the day of your wedding, make the most out of it. Don’t sweat the small stuff. You want to look as beautiful as possible in all your wedding photos. Relax and smile!

Popular Wedding Color Themes for you to Choose From

wedding colorsColors do say a thousand words and they might even narrate a tale of an everlasting love story.  Choosing the right wedding color theme is no doubt, one of the first steps a couple has to make. The color theme of your wedding would dictate the decors, the bridesmaids’ dress and the flowers too. Some couples go for their favorite color.  Others opt for colors and hues that are in harmony with the current season. Or if they already have a wedding theme in mind, be it a garden or a beach wedding, couples might pick colors that go well with their chosen theme. With lots of colors and hues, the possibilities are endless! You just need a little bit more imagination and creativity to come up with the perfect color for you two lovebirds.

  • Orange + green

This duo has always been considered a classic pair for any wedding. This color combination complements any season of the year. It is also perfect for summer and garden weddings. The vibrant orange hue blends well with the flowers in season while the green color mimics the true color of nature. It can be paired with crisp white linen for a summer wedding and brown ones for a winter affair. Aside from orange flowers, calla lilies and dahlias are perfect blooms for a vibrant wedding.

  • Purple + blue

Want a royal type of wedding? A mash up of purple and blue exudes a very elegant charm. Deep purple hues can be mixed with light blue colors for a contemporary look.  Couples can make use of lilacs and lavender for that purple tone. A combination of light and dark hues can be used to achieve a more cohesive look.

  • Black + green + white

This trio is another interesting takes for a very elegant wedding affair. Combination of crisp white and black is a traditional pair. But when it is coupled with hue of a light green or lime green, it becomes an instant craze! The fun green tone adds a summery, fresh zest to the traditional black and white combination. The bride can make use of light green roses wrapped in banana leaves for an interesting, beautiful bouquet.

  • Red + orange

These vivid tones are the perfect pair for a lovely fall wedding. The tones are reminiscent of the falling leaves in a lovely autumn afternoon and the romantic shade of the mid-afternoon. Deep red roses plus dahlias are nevertheless, understatements for this zestful union. These bold hues can be softened by adding touches of white to your bouquet and flower arrangements.

  • Yellow + orange

These perky tones are perfect accompaniments for a lovely summer wedding. Yellow colors evoke happy, fun affairs. While the orange tone is a great accent to a yellow base, and furthermore intensifies the lively color. These vibrant colors look perfect in outdoor weddings. Furthermore, a marriage of yellow and orange lends a fun twist to any wedding event.

  • Green + pink

Looking for a classical match?  Shades of green embraced with the blushing color of pink exude a classical aura.  Light green tones are the perfect complement to pink hues. The bride’s bouquet would be a classical one with jade roses and hydrangeas. Pink also gives an illusion of the blushing bride.

  • Turquoise + orange

This rather uncanny combination is a refreshing take for your wedding color palette. The orange hue is definitely a stand out. While the turquoise color is a refreshing sight to behold. This would definitely make a bold statement in any wedding. It is a not so ordinary combination that is slowly gaining its niche in the popular wedding color combinations.  It also spells perky, perky, and perky!

Picking the appropriate color theme for your dream wedding can be quite tricky. Couples need to determine also what type of romantic sheer they want their guests to witness. Or what mood they want to experience.  Is it romance with a fun twist? An elegant and classical one?  A blushing romance?  A pure romantic drama?  Keep in mind that vibrant colors spell drama while light colors mean romance. Remember, colors have this magical touch. They can and will influence your emotions.

 

Key Elements of the Wedding Ceremony Program

Wedding ceremony churchCelebrating two hearts in love, uniting two people for a lifetime—that’s what a wedding is all about. And the most important part of this event is of course the wedding ceremony. This is why, it’s one of the first things that you’d want to plan for. To make planning easier, it’s a must to find out the key elements of the ceremony program. Order of service varies depending from one religion to another. It also depends on whether it’s a religious celebration or civil ceremony. But generally, the key elements are as follows:

Processional

The processional marks the beginning of the ceremony. It is the part where the bridal party and the bride are presented. The bridal party walks down the aisle with music in the background followed by the bride. The rule of the thumb is for parents to walk in first then the bridesmaids and the groomsmen, followed by the flower girls and ring bearer. The bride is the last to walk in. This is usually the most anticipated part of the event. Guests are always moved to tears when during the bride’s walk down the aisle.

Greeting/Opening Talk

Once everyone is comfortably seated, the minister or officiant gives greeting to the guests. He may give some opening speech about the couple and the celebration of their love. If it’s a religious service, an opening prayer will be said. In some weddings, the minister or officiant tells a brief story of how the couple met and fell in love.

Statement of Intention

At this time, the minister or officiant informs everyone about the intent of the bride and groom to be married from their own free will. He will also talk about the responsibilities and commitment of marriage.

Exchange of Wedding Vows

Next to the bride’s walk down the aisle, this is another touching part of the event. The wedding vows serve as the couple’s promises to each other for the life that they are about to lead together. Wedding vows can be the traditional “for better or for worse ‘til death do us part” vows or something that you have made on your own. Many modern couples prefer to create their own wedding vows to give a personalized touch to the ceremony.

Exchange of Wedding Rings

After the vows, the wedding rings are exchanged. The bride first takes the groom’s hand to place a ring on his finger. The groom does the same afterwards. While they do so, they say the phrase, “Wear this ring as a sign of my love…” The wedding rings are the symbols of the couple’s everlasting commitment to each other.

Pronouncement of Marriage

As the wedding draws to the end, the minister or officiant formally declares the couple as husband and wife. Usually, he would include a few words to remind everyone the sanctity of marriage. This is also the part where the minister or officiant would tell the husband “You may now kiss the bride.”

Presentation of the Couple

As the couple is now officially married, the minister or officiant will present the couple as Mr. and Mrs. _____ to the wedding guests. The wedding guests applaud and cheer.

Recessional

This is the end part of the wedding ceremony when the officially married couple exits the ceremony venue. They are followed by the parents and wedding party. As the married couple reaches the exit, flower petals and rice grains are thrown into them. Some modern weddings also have fireworks, butterflies, bubbles, and balloons during the recessional.

Enumerated above are the basic parts of a wedding ceremony. But don’t be confined to this list. Feel free to add any ritual or prayer to your own wedding ceremony to make it more personal and unique. Just make sure that you consult first with the officiant or minister before you give it a go. You and your beau should discuss the ceremony order of events and additional ideas that you may have with the minister or officiant so that everything is clear. See to it too that you take time to plan out this particular part of the event, as this is the most essential aspect of any wedding.

Wedding invitations – traditional, elegant, tasteful, modern, funky, informal, fun or frivolous

Many hours of careful thought go into planning a wedding. Organising the venue and catering inevitably take priority but with so many aspects of your big day to plan and pay for, don`t forget about your wedding stationery.

It may seem relatively unimportant to you but for the guests the wedding invitation they receive through the post is their first indication of what sort of celebration to expect. A dull and uninteresting invitation may prompt some invited guests to wonder whether they may have something better to do on your wedding day whereas an invitation which catches their attention will almost guarantee their attendance.

So, with so much else to think about, how do you go about creating unique wedding invitations to send out to your chosen guests? The good news is that there are plenty of businesses out there to help you with wide ranges of invitation cards and plenty of options for personalising them.

The first step is to consider what sort of image you want to project of your big day. Do you want it to be very traditional, elegant and tasteful, modern and funky, relaxed and informal or fun and frivolous? Whichever image you choose for your invitations will need to continue through to the wedding day itself or your guests may end up feeling confused and cheated.

Have a look at the range of designs available. If you want to keep it simple there are plenty of invitation designs available which have a classic script but no images. Alternatively there are plenty of invitations available with images ranging from the traditional bridge and groom, glasses of champagne, floral bouquet or wedding cake to more modern images such as sleek wedding cars, cuddly animals, graphic illustrations or cartoon figures.

If your friends know you as an outgoing and lively couple you may want to choose a spoof wedding invitation where the image is of a newspaper or magazine cover. However, don`t choose a novelty invitation if your wedding day itself is going to be traditional – there will be a lot of disappointed guests who had been anticipating a riotous celebration!

Inevitably, invitations will need to be personalised to give guests the information about who is getting married, when and where. This is your opportunity to make your invitation unique. If you are having a classic wedding then you may prefer to choose more traditional language for the invitation. However, if your big day is going to be a more relaxed or fun affair you can let your creativity run riot. Write a poem, include a joke, use your pet names for each other – there are no rules apart from ensuring that the vital information is included.

Designing your wedding invitations and personalising them is one of the fun parts of planning a wedding so take your time and do it properly. Greetings cards and stationery specialists such as Hallmark have all the designs and tools to help you produce your unique wedding invitation.

What are Some Pretty Colors for a Spring Wedding

Wedding Colors For A Spring Wedding

Colour Wheel

Spring! It is the season of rebirth and growth. It is no wonder many couples prefer to get married during this time. Of course, you would want to have a beautiful spring wedding that would best reflect the cool and refreshing look of the season.

Decorating this type of event should not be too much of a challenge, as there are various spring colors from pastels to neutral to bright vivid colors that are perfect for this wedding. Are you not sure what colors to choose for your spring wedding? Here are some ideas to think about.

Spring Colors

Some of the most popular tones for spring weddings are lavender, baby blue, pink, green, yellow, and mint green. These shades can be used a single color motif, which would be the dominant color to be used in the decoration of your wedding. These colors can also be paired with another color for a two-tone combination or mixed with two more colors for a three-tone combination. Many fabulous combinations are enumerated below to give you some ideas on these.

Two-Color Combinations

Spring colors are usually light and airy so pairing them up need not be difficult. Try some of these two-tone combinations:

  1. Pastel green and ivory
  2. Pastel green and light pink
  3. Light blue and pastel green
  4. Light blue and white
  5. Light blue and chocolate brown
  6. Light blue and ivory
  7. Lavender and yellow
  8. Lavender and butter yellow
  9. Lavender and lime green
  10. Lavender and silver
  11. Pink and melon
  12. Sage green and creamy white
  13. Chocolate brown and petal pink
  14. Chocolate brown and baby blue
  15. Chocolate brown and lavender
  16. Orange and chartreuse
  17. Petal pink and mint green
  18. Cornflower blue and silver
  19. Lilac and chocolate brown
  20. Chocolate brown and yellow gold

Three-Color Combinations

You can also choose to have three-color combinations such as:

  1. Pale pink, ivory and peach
  2. Ivory, lavender and mint green
  3. Ivory, pink and sage green
  4. Pastel green, light pink and lavender
  5. Chocolate brown, white and pink
  6. Chocolate brown, cream, and peach
  7. Chocolate brown, ivory, and sage green
  8. Yellow, mint green, and tan
  9. Yellow, mint green and cream
  10. Lavender, baby blue, and white

Tips on Choosing Spring Hues

  1. Incorporate some patterns – You do not have to limit yourself to plain colors! Patterns such as floral, stripes, plaids, and Swiss dots are just some of the pretty patterns that you can use for the decoration of your wedding.
  2. Use colors in different creative ways – One way to do this is to go monochrome. Choose one spring color and then use the different shades of that color of your choice. Another idea would be to use one bright color like fuchsia and then tone it down a little with some neutrals like white, cream, light brown, and/or ivory.

Spring is certainly one of the best times to hold a wedding. Just make sure that you choose the right colors that would reflect freshness, growth, and rebirth so you can end up with a special and meaningful wedding day.

Embarrassing Things that can Happen to you at your Wedding Ceremony

Chit Chat BridezillasWhen embarrassing things happen to you, don’t you just wish the earth would open up and swallow you whole? Doing stupid things, making mistakes, and blurting out words that later cause you to turn into every shade of red are not that big of a deal. Yes, you feel embarrassed for a while but you actually get over them after some time.

However, this might not be the same if it happened during such a special occasion like your wedding. Not only would more than a hundred people be there to witness your mishap, it would also be forever commemorated in photos and videos. To make sure nothing embarrassing happens to you on your big day, here are some embarrassing things that commonly happen during wedding ceremonies that you should watch out for.

Flat as a Pancake

Here comes the bride, all dressed in white—wait, where is the bride? Oh, right she’s right there on the floor! Making that nerve-racking walk down the aisle is difficult for many brides not only because they are feeling giddy and nervous but also because the shoes and clothes may make it hard for them to walk comfortably! To avoid this problem, break in your shoes several weeks before your wedding and practice walking on them around the house. Moreover, be sure that the length of your dress is something that you can manage comfortably.

The Name Game

You are just getting started with the vow as you say, “I take you, Rob, as my lawful husband—”  when oops, you remember that you are marrying John! You catch the glimpse of stricken horror in your groom’s face and that of his parents and you realize that it is too late to do anything except to repeat the vow. Rest assured, this is something that your husband would never forget in your lifetime. It may even leave a dent in your relationship. Moral of the story? Marry the right guy! This way you won’t have to make a conscious effort not to blurt out other guy’s names.

The Strange Case of the Bride and the Bridezilla

The bride is a pleasant and lovely lady all dressed in white. But she can morph into this monstrous bridezilla without her even knowing it! If you are a bride, watch out for this alter-ego that may suddenly appear. Your alter-ego may make you say things that you would regret after the wedding is over. Be nice to everyone and that includes not only your guests but everyone who was part of the wedding celebration such as the caterer, musician, florists, food servers, and many more.

There is no such thing as a perfect wedding. Even if you have carefully planned your wedding down to the smallest detail, it is still possible for some mishaps to happen. Don’t sweat the small stuff! The important thing is that you do not end up doing embarrassing things that would make you run into hiding for the next couple of years.

Wedding Favor Guide for the Clueless Bride

Beach Wedding Favors

Beach Wedding Favors

Having a fancy wedding is what many brides dream of. But if you have ever helped plan a wedding, you know that you cannot have the perfect wedding day if you do not exert much effort and time into the planning and preparation. In fact, even the smallest details like the wedding favors require proper attention.

You cannot just say, “Oh, I don’t know anything about wedding favors, let us just skip that part.” Even the clueless bride needs to wield some extra effort to find out what she has to know in order to end up with the perfect tokens of appreciation. Fortunately, this guide will provide you most of what you need to know regarding this detail.

Wedding favor choices

  • Themed wedding favors – Themed wedding favors are very popular these days. Going for this type of favor is easy because you can easily narrow down your choices according to what is relevant to the theme of your wedding. One good example of these are beach favors, which are perfect for weddings held at the beach or indoor weddings that have beach themes (nautical, tropical, Hawaiian, and so on.) You would not need to look at other themed favors anymore and thus, save you time and energy.
  • DIY projects – These favors are ideal for the crafty bride who wants to make personalized gifts for the guests, showcase her craftiness, and/or save some money on the wedding budget. DIY projects, which may include scented soaps, candles, beaded accessories, music CDs, and hand painted boxes, are beautiful, creative, unique, and very cheap!
  • Edible sweet treats – Edible goodies such as chocolate bars, candies, brownies, cupcakes, and so on are great for satisfying the guest’s sweet tooth. Just make sure that you wrap these treats in personalized or customized cover or packaging, which the guests can keep these as souvenir after eating up the edible wedding favor.
  • Eco-friendly giveaways – In the desire to help the environment, some wedding experts have started the fad of giving away eco-friendly favors such as seed packets, gardening tools, mini potted plants, and anything that has to do with going green.

Some Tips on Choosing Wedding Favors

  • Shop around so you can compare products, prices, and services of different stores.
  • Buy online. The Internet market is always bustling with good discount deals on products such as wedding favors.
  • Choose an online store that has a safe and efficient system for credit card transactions.
  • Consult your future spouse about this matter. Let him have a say on what wedding favours to give away to the guests.
  • If you are going for the DIY projects, see to it that you still have the time to finish the wedding favors. It would also be best to round up some of your family and friends to help you out on these.

Even if you are clueless about table guest gifts, you can easily learn so many things about them by researching and asking around. Remember, even though favors are just a small part of the wedding, they are still very important.

How to Honor Deceased Parents in Your Wedding

dreamstime_3738192

Honor Deceased Parents With Special Song

You are getting married soon and you cannot help but feel mixed emotions about this upcoming major event in your life. On one hand, you are happy because finally you met that special person and you are going to celebrate the love and commitment that you two have for each other.

On the other hand, you are also sad because your parents are not around anymore to witness and be there for this once-in-a-lifetime affair. You would have wanted to share with them your extreme joy but you just console yourself thinking that they are surely happy for you.

Just because your parents are not around anymore, it does not mean that they cannot be a part of the occasion. Here are some aspects of the wedding that they can be a part of as well as special ways on how to keep their memories alive during your big day.

Speech

If you are going to make a speech during the reception, be sure to dedicate a part of it to your parents. Tell everyone how much you would have wanted for them to be here during this special occasion but then you know that they are looking down very much happy for you and your spouse.

Share with people an unforgettable anecdote that your parents have told you about marriage, an inside joke that they always cracked, or a special memory that you have with them. You can also talk about how much you have been inspired with the kind of relationship and marriage that your parents have shared.

Photos

Most wedding video presentations consist mainly of the couple’s photos but for yours, you can include some of your photos that you were with your parents. It can be childhood photographs, pictures of you, your spouse and your parents, or just a picture of your parents if you have never been with a picture with them.

Song/Music

Have the choir/band/wedding singer sing your parents’ theme songs. In addition, you can play their favorite kind of music as ambient music during the reception. If you are going to ask a band or wedding singer to sing their favorite song, have the singer/vocalist dedicate the song to your parents.

Food

For the reception, you have the option to include in the menu one or two of your parents’ favorite or signature dishes. This would make you feel as if your parents are with you during this very special event.

Colors

If your spouse-to-be would allow it, you can use your parents’ favorite colors as wedding motif. For example, if your dad was very fond of brown while your mom was a yellow person, you can combine yellow and brown as the main color theme for the wedding event.

Your wedding is such a special event and how you wish your parents could be with you. But you are still happy because you know that there are many ways you can do to keep their presence alive and to make them a part of the wondrous occasion.

Source: This Article was submitted by Wendy Bishop, a wedding expert and writer for MyDreamWedding.ca

DIY Wedding Favors Can Make Your Guests Burst Into Laughter

diy favors

"Filed Under Love" Emery Board Nail Files

Have you noticed that so many people are getting into the DIY bandwagon? It is not any different with weddings. We can find so many resources online regarding DIY wedding decoration, DIY wedding cake, and DIY invitations.

Another popular DIY project that many brides want to try is the wedding favors. A wedding favor, which is a way of saying thank you to guests for attending your wedding, is also a keepsake that guests would remember your wedding by. For this reason, you would want to give away unique and special wedding favors that they would surely keep for a very long time.

Here are some wonderful and somewhat humorous DIY wedding favors that will also make your guests holler in laughter.

Funny Fortune Cookies

Take out your baking apron and whip up some exciting and flavorful cookies for your guests to enjoy. To make it more fun, include a piece of paper that contains wacky predictions (Today, is your lucky day, you will get to meet your Prince Charming. He looks like Barney, but who cares?!) or funny quotes (Love is like a cake. It is sweet but if you have too much of it, you get sick!). You can even personalize the fortune cookie so that the guests (especially your closest friends) would have a grand time laughing at inside jokes.

Hangover Survival Kit

Put together antacid, bottled water, and a headache medication in a small handmade box. Add a couple of candies and sweet treats. Voila, you have an “after the party” kit that would surely make your friends (especially those who love going out for drinks) laugh out loud. Do not forget to wrap the package with a ribbon that says, “Drink moderately! A friendly reminder from (couple’s name)”

Mini T-Shirts with Amusing Prints

This one you can make on actual-sized shirts but to save money, you can print amusing texts and funny graphics on mini shirts that can be bought in many retail stores. Use an iron-on transfer paper to print in your own printer some comical texts and illustrations you have collected. You can even have the mini shirts customized for each guest. For example, for your maid of honor, you can give something that says, “Bridezilla in the Making” or for the groom’s mother, you can give a “Cried Two Thousand and One Tear Drops in a Day” shirt.

More DIY wedding craft projects

  1. A bag of candies and lollipops with a tag that says, “For that little kid in you (yes, we know about it!)”
  2. Pastries and cakes. Write on the gift tag something like, “For your sweet tooth(decay)!”
  3. A pouch of different kinds of nuts and a little card that says, “You’re nuts!” or “From one nut to another!”
  4. A compact mirror inside a beautiful handmade box. On top of the box, write something that says, “Warning: You may not like what you are about to see inside!”
  5. A personalized matchbox wrapped in colorful paper. Add a gift card that says, “For the perfect match.” Give these for couples who are going to attend your wedding.

Making wedding favors can be tedious for some people. After all, creating something a hundred times over can surely be tiresome and monotonous. However, if you create hilarious DIY wedding favors, not only would your guests break out laughing, you would also surely have a grand time making these favors.

Sexy Red Wedding Decoration Ideas

Red Wedding Theme

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!

How to Plan the Perfect Garden Wedding

Garden 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.

dreamstime_3910793

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!

Fun Ideas for Your Country Wedding

Country Wedding

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!

Decoration Tips for your Orange Wedding Theme

Orange Wedding Theme

Orange Wedding Theme

The moment you have been waiting for has finally arrived. Your love of your life has asked your hand in marriage and even before you can say yes, your mind takes you to a whirlwind of images where you see yourself wearing a gorgeous white gown, walking down the aisle.

Just like most brides, you want this moment to be as perfect as possible. Aside from that, you want your wedding to have a unique appeal that would make it stand out among the other weddings that people have seen before.

You consider all sorts of wedding motif colors—blue, pink, green, and lavender. You find it hard to choose among these colors, not because you do not like any of them, but because you do not want your wedding to look like a replicate of the weddings you have attended in the past. You very well know that these colors have been used over and over and over before.

If you are looking for a color that is not a staple for weddings but can surely add flair and beauty to the event, consider using the dynamic shade of orange. Many people are not aware that orange makes a fantastic wedding color. In fact, it is so versatile you can use it in almost any occasion, even during spring, which is mainly dominated by pastel shades.

If you want to know more about how you can decorate your wedding with this color, here are some decoration pointers to consider.

Adorn Tables with Orange Centerpieces

  • Put lemons, oranges, and limes inside tall clear vases and top off this bright arrangement with a combination of orange shade flowers such as roses, gerbera, tulips, chrysanthemums, and daisies.
  • Use orange colored mason jars to hold yellow and white tulips and daisies. Wrap the mason jar with brown raffia. This is an economical and yet eye-catching idea for a centerpiece.
  • Collect a bunch of orange, yellow and red poppy flowers and place in a tall slender vase. This centerpiece idea can surely add visual interest to the tables in the reception.
  • Place orange-colored candles in a wide clear vase filled with water. Light up the candles for a gorgeous floating candle centerpiece.

Create a Stunning Backdrop

  • For the couple’s place in the reception venue, you can decorate an arch with orange roses, orange tulle and orange raffia. Include a couple of cymbidium orchids to complete the look.
  • You can also adorn the couple’s gazebo with a combination of orange, yellow, and white balloons, as well as orange tulips or daisies in between.

Embellish the Bouquet

  • Gather orange and yellow dahlias and green gladiolus for a stunning bouquet. Adorn the bouquet with an orange plaid ribbon.
  • Add accents such as orange rhinestones, orange Swarovski crystals, and petite orange pearls to your beautiful bouquet of golden yellow and peach roses. Little accents can make the bouquet even more dazzling.

Add more Life with Orange

  • Tie orange satin ribbons on the chairs of the guests.
  • Cover the tables with bright orange tablecloth or use an orange table runner on a cream tablecloth.
  • Use a bright orange aisle runner to add dramatic beauty to the reception.
  • Scatter orange petals on the walkway of the couple.
  • Include orange table napkins or menu cards on the tables.
  • Add a hint of orange on the wedding favors. The favors do not necessarily have to be orange but they can come in orange boxes or be adorned with orange ribbons.
  • Light up orange scented candles and place all over the reception area.

Orange is fun, fresh, bright, and cheery, which is why it can be the perfect color to add that distinct touch to your wonderful wedding. Have fun planning!

Bridal Tour In Fergus Ontario

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Fergus, Ontario

Town’s merchants have rolled out red carpets for the special day for all brides-to-be. Fergus could be a one-stop shopping day for all women’s bridal needs. There re two jewellers, two flower shops, several gift shops, invitations, wedding cakes, a men’s shop to provide tuxedos, catering, and stores that sell wedding dresses and all the accessories.

All businesses involved in the bridal tour which was held Saturday, September 26, have rolled out red carpets into their stores from 9am to 3pm. The tour began at the Breadalbane Inn, and included two fashion shows, limousine rides, and a tour of all the shops inside the business area.

The plan is to hold another tour in February, and another one in May, so all wedding seasons are covered.

MyDreamWedding.ca has been visiting Fergus and got a few interviews for its valued readers, one is about wedding cakes, another one about wedding catering, and third one is for the grooms who need to buy wedding tuxidos, … enjoy:

Unique Wedding Cakes

… from “Sweet And Simple” (www.sweetandsimpleshop.com)


Wedding Catering For Medieval Or Picnic Weddings With A Health Food Angle

… from The Fountainhead Cafe (Informal Party and Wedding Catering)


Buying Your Wedding Tuxedo

… from Brodericks Apparel For Men



Inexpensive Ways to Decorate Your Outdoor 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.

Beach Wedding Accessories for the Exotic Couple

Black or White Just Married Sandals

Black or White Just Married Sandals

If you would take a survey on the most popular wedding themes, beach wedding would probably top the list. This is because many couples love the vast expanse of beautiful ocean that can serve as the backdrop, the romantic ambiance of the beach scene, and the fact that beach weddings are beautiful and inexpensive at the same time.

Since there are now many couples who get married on beach wedding settings, some exotic couples want to take it a step higher in order to have a unique kind of matrimonial ceremony at the beach. One way to achieve this is to wear one-of-a-kind beach wedding accessories that would complete their look for their big day. Here are some fantastic ideas on wedding accessories that any couple would surely love.

Lei or Flower Garland

A tropical flower garland is one of the first things that will come into your mind upon the mention of the words, beach wedding accessories. Whether you are getting married in a beach in Hawaii or in any other part of the world, a lei of beautiful tropical flowers around the necks of the bride and groom can surely be a memorable embellishment for the event.

Seashell Jewelry

It is very common to find seashells in any beach, which is why this element is always present in many beach weddings. Incorporate seashells into your wedding attire by donning accessories made from terrific beach finds. You and your spouse-to-be can wear seashell necklace, seashell bracelet, or a seashell anklet. Since there are many colors and styles to choose from, it is a good bet that you would end up with a unique looking accessory that would certainly wow your guests.

Beaded Accessories

Aside from seashells, beads are also a staple when it comes to beach or summer accessories. Beaded necklaces, beaded bracelets, and beaded earrings can add a touch of creativity and exotic appeal to your and your partner’s beach wedding attire.

Flower Headdress

For the bride, instead of wearing the traditional veil, you can choose to have a flower headdress made of tropical flowers such as sunflower or hibiscus. Just remember that if you are going to wear the headdress, you should skip the flower garland (or the other way around, depending on your preference) because wearing both would be overdoing it.

Barefoot Bridal Sandals

Barefoot bridal sandals are becoming a hot fashion statement for brides who want to walk down the aisle with bare feet. Barefoot bridal sandals can be made of beads, rhinestones, or leather straps that accents the top of the feet without a covering for the sole.

Shell tiara or headband

In lieu of the flower headdress, a bride can also wear a seashell tiara or headband as a hair accessory. This is suitable for simple hairstyles like a classic bun, ponytail, or hair let hanging down on the shoulders.

Beach weddings have that unique romantic feel and creative look that many exotic couples love. Complete the special occasion by wearing one-of-a-kind beach wedding accessories that you can use even after the wedding day.

Most Popular Wedding Shoe Designers in 2009

dreamstime_10452648Most women love to shop for shoes. Brides are not an exception. In fact, many women believe that a wedding is one of the most important events that require shopping for a pair of beautiful and exquisite shoes. Even though the shoes will hardly be seen due to the length of the bridal gown, many brides opt to buy elegant designer shoes that would complete their look for that special day.

If you are looking for a pair of designer shoes to wear on your wedding event, it helps to know who the top wedding shoe designers for this year are. These bridal designer shoes are the top in the industry and many brides would be more than excited to walk down the aisle in these fantastic creations. Here are the top wedding shoe designers for the year 2009 in no particular order.

1. Vera Wang

Vera Wang’s bridal shoes are some of the most sought after wedding shoes not only in this country but in other parts of the world as well. Vera Wang shoes are described to be glamorous and ultra-feminine. The trademark shoes from this line are the t-strapped shoes with leather uppers and 3.25” heels adorned with glimmering glitters.

2. Kate Spade

Shoes by Kate Spade are known for their charm, elegance and traditional style. One of the most popular shoes from this designer is the Gali shoes, which are open toe white silk satin sling-back wedding shoes. This pair comes with a superb decorative bow with a rhinestone-studded brooch that certainly adds visual appeal to the already gorgeous shoes.

3. Delman

Delman shoes are all about beauty, style and unique quality. Selma shoes, one of the well-known pairs from this designer, comes with a delicate lattice design, and metallic silver leather accents. It is a nice break away from the norm in wedding shoes and is the perfect pair for a bride that is looking from something that is out of the ordinary and yet is beautiful and elegant.

3. Stuart Weitzman

Decopauge by Stuart Weitzman is another popular pair of wedding shoes that many brides want to get their hands on. This pair is made in Spain and it features 3.5” heels, two-piece uppers, Swarovski adornments and one large stone. This is truly the ultimate pair to complete your elegant ensemble.

4. Manolo Blahnik

One thing distinct about shoes from Blahnik is that they are not the typical wedding shoes. Manolo Blahnik shoes are more than simply stunning; their fabulous t-straps sandals are made of silver chainmail, metallic leather, and many rhinestones. They are so gorgeous you can wear them even after the wedding is over.

6. Benjamin Adams

Another household name in wedding shoes industry is Benjamin Adams, whose shoes are mainly described as stylish and comfortable. His shoes are available in a wide variety of unique designs that sets his shoes apart from the rest. Dyeable classic ivory satin and simple white satin are just some of the many colors available.

With so many brands to choose from, you can easily find one that fits your style. However, keep in mind that the designer’s name is just one among the many factors to consider when buying bridal shoes. More important than the name it carries are comfort and fit, to ensure that you find the perfect pair for you to use on big day.

12 Romantic Tips on How to Use Candles in Your Wedding

weddingcandlesThe 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.

Best Fall Wedding Color Choices

dreamstime_3506140When you think of a fall wedding, you have to think of fallen leaves, autumn flowers, season of harvest, and forests that come in a mix of fiery red, dark brown, burnt orange and buttery gold. In short, you have to think of nature so it will be easier for you to compose a color palette that is evocative of the season’s natural and rich hues.

Since autumn is a season of change, you have a wide variety of colors to choose from. In fact, you do not have to limit yourself to a single color scheme, you can opt for a couple of shades to use for your fall wedding. Some of the most popular fall wedding colors include rich red, burgundy, rust orange, sage green, gold, copper, pumpkin, bronze, off white, marigold, taupe, crimson yellow, purple, mauve, lavender, mocha, and taupe.

Considering the part of the season (early fall, mid-fall or late fall) can also make the process of color selection easier for you. With the wide array of vibrant tones, gentle hues and even exciting metallic colors, you can quickly find the color scheme that will suit you and complement the season at the same time.

Vibrant Colors of Early Fall
If you are going to tie the knot anytime from September to early October, red is the major choice but other hues such as pumpkin, marigold, burgundy and cream can look radiant as well. These colors best reflect the vibrant and colorful harvest and the bright warmth of the season. For the accent, any of the colors mentioned can be used as long as it complements the base color of the wedding. For example, apple red can be a pleasant accent color for cream.

Subdued Shades in Mid-Fall
During the middle of the season (mid to late October to early November), it is best to incorporate into your wedding earthy, subdued, neutral and muted shades and tones. Some of your options include peach, sage green, cream, light yellow, and lavender. Metallics such as gold, bronze or copper can be used as accents to these pale shades to give a stunning contrast. But if you want to stick with the muted hues even for the accents, it would still look beautiful.

Rich and Versatile Choices for Late Fall
Couples marrying by the end of fall have it easier since this part of the season is versatile. During this time, you can use deep colors like chocolate brown and eggplant purple, coupled with a metallic accent like bronze or gold. You can also opt to go for a nearly monochromatic scheme of neutral shades such as pale gold, mocha, and cream. It is also a viable option to make use of a bit of red, green or silver as a sneak preview for the upcoming winter season.

A fall wedding is a fantastic way to celebrate the abundance of the season and at the same time the fruitfulness of the love that you and your spouse-to-be have for each other. Be sure to pick the right colors to suit this celebration well.

Martha Stewart Is A Big Fan Of The Calla Lily Wedding Theme

callaliliesMartha Stewart is a big fan of the calla lily wedding theme, especially as a wedding flower and no one does a wedding better than the Queen of Good Things. According to her, the calla lily was the flower that early Romans used to signify the passing of the winter solstice.

The Romans would plant them just inside their homes, and timing the planting perfectly so that they would bloom as the winter solstice occurred, and the calla lily offered light and beauty in an otherwise dark and dreary time of year. The larger the display of calla lilies, the wealthier the Roman home occupants were. Calla lilies were so revered by the Romans, they went so far as to decorate the edges of the blooms with gold filament.

Calla lily translates to magnificent beauty and the flowers never disappoint. Their pure white unusual blooms and the vibrant green stalks and leaves make the calla lily a perennial favorite for flower lovers the world over. Symbolic in nature, their shape is said to resemble trumpets that are singing out victory to the heavenly sky that they stretch out to. Could there be a more perfect wedding theme.

Popular with Spring and autumn splendor weddings, calla lilies are certainly perfect for a winter wonder land wedding as well – working in perfect harmony with wintery white snow, ice and crystal. A calla lily theme wedding is simply exquisite no matter what season the wedding is held, or whether it is a morning, afternoon or evening wedding ceremony.

Throughout history, artists have included the calla lily in their paintings and sculptures of the Virgin Mary and the Angel of Annunciation – with the calla lilies used to signify purity and faith. This could be a good reason why a calla lily theme wedding is very popular with Christians and others getting married in a formal cathedral ceremony.

The calla lily has also been used over time to represent youth, regeneration and innocence. Another perfectly illuminating reason why calla lily wedding themes are so popular among contemporary couples who are looking for their wedding to be a rebirth of their relationships, in a symbolic sort of way.

For centuries, the calla lily has been a treasured flower which has been celebrated and stood as the showcased theme at many weddings. In modern times, the calla lily flower has become one of the most highly sought after flowers for a bride, and one of the most popular wedding themes for couples of all age, races and religions. In the 21st century, the calla lily ha

Purple Mixes The Hotness Of Red With The Coolness Of Blue

purpleThroughout history, purple has been considered a color of royalty, befitting special occasions and events including purple theme weddings . Kings and Queens often donned purple whenever they reviewed or accepted subjects.

In more recent times, purple is the color chosen by countries to confer honor on their Heads of State or other dignitaries. Purple still plays a major role in most backgrounds when two Heads of State meet for meetings or to sign treaties.

Purple mixes the hotness of red with the coolness of blue. The result is a customer that can be all things to all people and can merge well into any color scheme. Even colors normally difficult to match, like pink or certain greens, mix well with purple. Purple also brings out the best in other colors, making them seem more regal or vibrant.

A purple theme wedding allows you to set the stage for elegance and class and can add a rich flavor to any decoration scheme. It also allows you to inject a sense of quiet style if you use it sparingly, such as in flower arrangements, table settings or as trim around other colors.

The butterfly favor / place cards in deep orchid purple, sets a mood that is both light and serious, airy yet exuding sincerity. Personalized ribbons for bows on favor boxes allow you to add either a purple ribbon or purple script to your favors, giving your favor boxes a touch of class and reminding the guests of your special day. Decorative initial monogram stickers in purple allow you to personalize glasses or stationary.

Decorations also can be injected with various shades of purple, from light mauve to dark grape. Tablecloths in purple set a quiet yet elegant mood for receptions and shades of purple tulle tied with paper roses are perfect for aisle decorations and the backs of reception chairs.

White is the perfect backdrop color for a purple wedding theme, as the various hues of purple seem to come to life and leap off the white! Purple exudes a royal, fun and sincere elegance that can set a mood for an entire day. Cocktail regular napkins done in purple enhance any setting and provide a sense of royalty to food and drinks.

Purple is one of the few colors that enhance virtually everything it touches. Clothes, decorations, favors, collections, place cards, you name it, purple adds to the splendor of the event and dresses up even the most routine article. Purple theme weddings create a sense of royalty, elegance, and splendor as well as honor the special day without seeming pretentious. Purple enhances virtually everything and is right at home in any setting.

Add A Bold Dash Of Colour With Red Roses To A Black & White Theme

silhouettesbloomSince the 40s, black and white wedding themes have been creating unforgettably elegant events for couples. Celebrate your special day with classic black and white themes to show off your sophisticated sense of Hollywood style.

The striking combination of black and white for your wedding can be offset by using touches of red. Simple red roses and accents won’t overpower your black and white wedding themes but add a bold dash of color. Metallic accessories are a perfect way to offset your black and white theme.

During the 40s, black and white wedding themes gained popularity along with jazz clubs and Hollywood starlets. The retro look is popular again featuring new levels of texture and depth such as satin, silver, gold and velvet.

The bride can choose a straight, classic white gown with bridesmaids in black with a touch of red. The groom and ushers wear black tuxedos with red cummerbunds to match the ladies. A Hollywood-inspired groom may even choose to wear a handsome top hat.

Flowers for black and white wedding themes are outstanding and unique. Consider combinations of black roses and black “Queen of the Night” tulips with white orchids, white roses and white tulips. The bride can include pretty white flowers in her bridal bouquet such as calla lily, gardenia and narcissus. Add a few red roses to the floral arrangements to match the rest of the wedding.

Often couples choose a ball room or large restaurant with a dance floor for elegant black and white wedding themes. Uncluttered decorations, white tablecloths and black napkins finish off the sophisticated look. For a dramatic Hollywood 40s flair, add diamond jewelry and ice sculptures.

Funky black and white wedding themes include patterned tablecloths or dotted black and white accessories. By using a refreshing combination of pattern, texture and starkness, you can create your own eclectic black and white wedding theme. Another exciting black and white wedding is a “goth” theme for modern couples. The bride and bridal party often wear black. Victorian accents create a truly Gothic feel.

Instead of a 40s black and white theme, you can go for the 50s and have a jukebox, milkshakes and cheeseburgers to include the kids. Use checkerboard black and white patterns with accents of red throughout your reception. Have silver utensils to create a 50s luncheonette atmosphere.

Asian weddings, which are popular for people from all backgrounds, traditionally use black, white, red and silver. Serve Oriental food on white tablecloths with brushed silver utensils. Have wedding favors for your guests in Asian takeout boxes wrapped with black and white ribbons.

Black and white wedding themes are anything but boring. Their timeless appeal will make your wedding elegantly memorable.

Top Wedding Cake Design Ideas For 2012

wedding cakeWhen lined up against the wedding ring or the wedding gown, the wedding cake usually takes a backseat. However, this does not mean that the wedding cake is unimportant. In fact, it is one of the focal points of the reception that can surely add dazzle to the event.

Because of its importance to the event, couples should exert extra effort in picking their wedding cake to ensure that they pick the right one. A wedding cake should not only be beautiful on the outside but also on the inside, meaning aside from looking spectacular and alluring, it should also taste just as great.

For couples who are getting married this year, you will find this list of top wedding cake designs for 2012 practical and helpful.

The Hip and Whimsical Cupcake Tower

Pioneers of the cupcake wedding tower saw the potential in cupcakes beyond being the usual sweet treat for children. This paved the way to the birth of the wedding tower of cupcakes, which has been making its way to replace the traditional tiered wedding cake.

One reason for the immense popularity of this option is the fact that it is practical, inexpensive, beautiful, and delicious. What more can you ask for, right? If you want your wedding cupcake tower to stand out among the rest, you can opt for square or angular-shaped cupcakes, which are also marvelous when layered into a cake.

The Chic Monochrome Wedding Cake

From the whimsical and fun look of the cupcake tower, we go now to the classic “black and white” style in wedding cakes, which has always been a much sought-after choice among many couples. The monochrome design surely adds elegance and sophistication to your reception. The base of this cake is usually white and then black lacey icing are used to decorate the cake.

The Angular Shaped Wedding Cake

The typical round or heart-shaped cakes are no longer in fashion. What the year 2009 brings us is the exciting trend of having square or hexagonal tiered cakes that gives a touch of modernity to your wedding day. Make sure that the embellishments placed on the cake are also angular in shape.

The Wonderful Wedding Cake in Bright Dazzling Colors

Hot pink, red velvet, or bright aqua—these are just few of the many bright and dazzling colors that are trendy this year when it comes to wedding cakes.

The Timeless Personalized Cake

One cake design that never goes out of style is the personalized wedding cake, which takes inspiration from the life and relationship that the couple has shared. Instead of the typical bride and groom cake topper, you can have a mini-version of you and your spouse-to-be in the form of a caricature sculpture.

Another way to personalize the cake is to have a memento of your relationship included in the cake design—it may be the poem that the groom gave the bride when he proposed or the photo of the couple’s very first trip together. In this kind of cake, the options are endless.

Wedding cakes come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, designs, flavors and styles that it will not be difficult to find one that would make you and your spouse-to-be say wow in delight. With this helpful guide on cake trends for 2012, making a choice would even be much easier.

Bridesmaids And Groomsmen Gifts As Tokens of Appreciation

honeymoon2It’s your wedding and you feel that you and your spouse are all left alone to face the enormous task of organizing the wedding. Well, you’re not really alone since you have those friends to back you up and guide you every step of the way.

There is absolutely more to a wedding than dressing up to the nines, posing for pictures, rubbing elbows with familiar and unfamiliar faces, eating, drinking, dancing and merrymaking. Marriage is first and foremost the union of two souls so it means it is something sacred, something divinely-inspired. It is a kind of event where every detail is carefully planned because such celebration takes place once in a lifetime.

There will we be people who will be assisting the groom and the bride in the over-all wedding preparations. There will be their respective parents and siblings to assist them as they go along with making plenty of decision regarding the budget, the reception, the food, the decorations, the wedding motif and so many other things that spell wedding. Of course, along with the groom and the bride’s respective families are their friends. They, too have special roles to fill in. From the groom and the bride’s circle of friends, they will select a few who will work closely with them in organizing a dream wedding, and those gathered friends will temporarily be rendered the job title of bridesmaids and groomsmen.

The bridesmaids and groomsmen have very special roles in their friends’ wedding. They will shoulder some responsibilities in the general pre and post wedding preparations. Take the bridesmaids for instance. They will aid the bride in hosting a bachelorette party and a bridal shower and in preparing for a rehearsal dinner.

wedding-t-shirt3Groomsmen, on the other hand, will also coordinate with the groom in throwing a stag party and in making reservations at hotels or club houses and restaurants. Both the bridesmaids and groomsmen will devote their time, energy and talents and skills in their friends’ wedding. There will also be instances where they will be obliged to spend on behalf of the couple-to-be.

See the apparent significance of the bridesmaids and groomsmen? These people are also as busy as the pair getting married, but for friendship’s sake they will generously offer their time and efforts just to ensure a successful wedding for their friends who are tying the knot.

It is just right that the bride and the groom must show their earnest appreciation for their friends’ acts of love, so to speak that wedding favors would not be enough. Special gifts for the bridesmaids and groomsmen are just proper, and will make them feel that their hardships and efforts are acknowledged and deeply appreciated.

Even though the bridesmaids and groomsmen not really anticipating to be rewarded or are expecting any gestures that would compensate for their contributions to the wedding (since they did everything out of pure, sincere support), it is still wonderful to give them something that would remind them of their valuable support.

Wrap Up Your Wedding Day With Personalized Ribbons

Wrap up your day the right way with personalized wedding ribbons. You can make any statement on your favours, flowers and decorations by using special wedding ribbons.

Favours are recognized at the reception usually by the pretty wedding ribbons. Usually personalized wedding ribbons are affixed to the favours so guests always remember the moment. Jordan almonds or a bottle of wine is tied around the top with ribbon from the new Mr. and Mrs. A mini die cut ribbon looks adorable wrapped around a small treasure chest bearing candies.

Many couples release helium balloons at their wedding to celebrate the moment they tie the knot. Whether an adult or child, everyone loves to play with balloons at a party and take them home when it ends. Cut long strips of colourful, standard curling ribbon so everyone can grab a balloon and have a great time.

You can make special magic wands to give out at your wedding, made from joy, cherish, love, hope, faith ribbon and hollow craft wands. Use pinking shears to cut long trips of the ribbon and a glue gun to secure them to the wands. Your guests can wave the wands after your wedding and take them home as a keepsake.

Floral arrangements are personalized with pretty wedding ribbons. A bow made from a mini flower chain die cut ribbon looks darling tucked under a floral arrangement. Streamers hanging from your floral arrangements made from today I married by best friend ribbons make a happy statement about your love. A sheer organza ribbon looks breathtaking around a bouquet of wildflowers.

Unique wedding ribbons on the gifts to your wedding party make them extra special. A “we’ve tied the knot” ribbon around each gift will remind the guests of how much they helped you get to that special moment.

Ribbons can be used to decorate your reception area. Tie them around any place that looks boring or plain. Poles are brought to life in halls. Shrubs are more noticeable at garden weddings. Add colour with wedding ribbons wherever it is needed.

Your tables are more elegant with personalized wedding ribbon at each place setting. Wrap ribbon around napkins or the base of candleholders. Have a large, framed photo of the bride and groom at each table with a gros grain ribbon tied around the base.

Wedding ribbons are a fun way to express yourselves on your once in a lifetime day.

12 Non-Alcoholic Drinks for Your Wedding Reception

cocktail-themeDrinks are just as important as the food in the reception. Most wedding experts would agree with this. Many weddings today often serve alcoholic drinks to get the party started and to liven up the festivities. However, this is not compulsory. If you and your partner feel that you are better off not to serve alcoholic drinks in your big day, then so be it.

Having no alcohol in the menu does not mean that the reception party will be boring. To spice up the event, here are some exciting non-alcoholic drinks that will make your wedding reception a hit.

1. Madras

A popular drink in the Southern United States, the madras is a fruity concoction made of orange and cranberry juices. You can create this without adding vodka. Serve this beverage in a champagne flute with ice and garnish with a spitted cherry.

2. Sparkling Cider

A non-alcoholic version of the champagne cider, the sparkling cider is a lightly carbonated juice from fresh apples. It contains no concentrates, no sweeteners, no preservatives and definitely no alcohol. This is purely apple juice, healthy and delicious!

3. Tom Collins

The Tom Collins, which is an old gin drink that was popular in the early 20th century, is served in a tall glass with an added lemon juice and carbonated soda water. Garnish with a maraschino cherry or an orange slice.

4. Tequila Sunrise

A tropical drink perfect for beach or outdoor weddings, this one is made with a mix of orange juice, grenadine or cherry syrup. Serve in a tall glass, add some ice and garnish with spitted cherry or orange slice.

5. Wild Berry Mojito

This drink, a mix of some berries, mint, and lime, can surely be a unique drink that would amaze your guests. Do not forget to spritz with soda water to give it a fizz.

6. Cosmopolitan

HBO’s Sex and the City made this drink popular once more. This drink is made of cranberry juice, some orange syrup, and drops of limejuice. This is best served in a rocks glass and garnish with lime.

7. Neon lemonade

Neon lemonade minus the vodka will wow guests with its bright blue color and enticing sour taste. It is lemonade or lemon sour mix added with a dash of blue-tinted fruit punch. Also served in a tall glass with spitted cherry or orange slice.

8. Long Beach Iced Tea

Another drink ideal for beach weddings, the long beach iced tea is a combination of orange, cranberry, and pineapple juices with a dash of grenadine on top. Serve this enticing drink in a slim tall glass with a lemon wedge and cherry.

9. Non-Alcoholic Punch

A punch does not always need to have alcohol, right? Enjoy this merry mix of fruit juices minus the alcohol.

10. Long Island Iced Tea

A refreshing mix of lemonade and brown cola, this can be a hit among friends who love iced tea. Serve this in fun tumblers and garnish with lemon wedge or slice.

11. Lime Rickey

This drink is made of limejuice, dashed with simple syrup, topped with a club soda and garnished with lime peel.

12. Brewed Coffee, Espresso or Mocha Frappe

Juices are not the only non-alcoholic beverage you can serve during your wedding. Delicious coffee and other similar beverage can surely make guests forget that you are not serving alcohol in the party.

Serving non-alcoholic drinks will offer many advantages. For one, it will help you avoid embarrassing moments of having intoxicated guests say or do things they should not do. Also, serving beverage with no alcohol can give you maximum savings on your wedding budget, as alcoholic drinks do not come cheap.

Add Wedding Elegance For Less With These Fabrics

Selecting the right fabric for wedding decorations adds elegance to the event for less. Even the most budget-conscious brides can find fabric for wedding decorations to make their own unique creations to celebrate the day. From cost-effective weaves to costly fabrics, you can create a magical mood with material.

Fabric for wedding decorations should make your theme and accessories. You will need a bridal runner for that famous walk down the aisle. Select a durable runner made from rayon or nylon with a rubber back to avoid slipping. Avoid plastic runners that may rip under high-heeled shoes.

Ribbons are the basic element of most wedding decorations. Large ribbons are used to mark chairs and pew, medium ribbons to decoration railings and small ribbons tie wedding favor bags and bouquets. Wedding ribbons are made in a variety of fabrics, colors and styles. Wire ribbons hold their shape for floral arrangements. Bridal bouquets are luxurious with silk ribbons. Satin ribbons create traditional decorations for your wedding. Dramatic tulle ribbons make outstanding chair and pew markers. Other ribbon materials include tartan, chiffon, velvet and gingham.

Tulle is a frequently used fabric for wedding decorations because of its versatile, hexagonal weave that won’t fray when cut. Purchase a roll of tulle to mark chairs and pews, decorate ceilings and walls and even cut down into small squares to wrap wedding favors then tie at the top with a small ribbon. Brides even use tulle as a bridal train or to puff out the bridal gown skirt.

Silk flowers are a lasting way to decoration your wedding with flowers. Have your flower girl throw silk rose petals down the aisle to announce the arrival of the bride. Another popular fabric for wedding decorations is linen, which is perfect at formal parties for tablecloths and covering chairs and is less costly than silk. Affordable materials to use for tablecloths and chair coverings including cotton, polyester, organza and lame. Lame has silver or gold threads to add a gossamer metallic glimmer to any area.

Lace is used for a variety of wedding decorations, the bridal gown and can even be copied on the wedding cake icing. Paper streamers and bells are an affordable way to fill in every corner at your wedding ceremony and reception.

Fabric for wedding decorations may be pricey or affordable, based on your budget. With a bit of creativity, you can use almost any material to create magic on your special day.

Wedding Reception Table Decoration Ideas

wedding reception table decorationsWedding 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 table number 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.

Bride and Groom Cake Toppers

Your wedding cake is arguably the most important cake you will ever eat, so it’s important to make every detail count on every layer, particularly on the top. This is where bride and groom cake toppers really make the cake into something special and unique that is a true representation of who you are as a newly married couple. When it comes to choosing your bride and groom cake toppers, you will probably be drawn more strongly towards a traditional look, a funny look, or a unique look. Regardless of which style you choose, you should consider your choice carefully because it really does set the tone for the entire wedding ceremony and wedding reception.

The traditional wedding means long flowing white satin gowns, black tuxedos and tails, pretty pastel flowers, intricately decorated tables with fine linens and china, and a fairytale feeling with all the trimmings. The traditional wedding is elegant, romantic, and maybe even a bit subdued. Many traditional

bride and groom cake toppers can also create this classic and romantic feeling as well. They are usually created out of painted white porcelain and the poses are typically of the bride and groom having their first kiss or taking their first dance.

Some couples prefer to forego the typical wedding images and would prefer to choose

bride and groom cake toppers that are more symbolic in nature. These non-traditional cake toppers go great with any style cake and can add a touch of class to any wedding theme. The most popular styles include the traditional Celtic knot and Claddaugh ring symbols of love and friendship. Even if you’re not Irish, these ancient expressions of love are perfect on top of any wedding cake. You might also like the look of a symbol make out of Asian script that represents love or happiness. Both of these non-traditional

bride and groom cake toppers are perfect for anyone who is drawn towards minimalist style.