The Garter Toss

The tossing of a bride’s wedding garter has become a feature of many wedding reception celebrations, and originates back to the 14^th Century.  Around Europe it was believed that having a piece of the bride’s clothing was thought to bring good luck.

Garters are articles of clothing made from heavy cloth or ribbon. In the olden days the garter was worn just below the knee, where the leg is most slender, to prevent a woman’s stocking from sliding. Nowadays they are worn above the knee for fashion.

Historically the garter represents purity of the bride.  The groom would remove the garter as a symbol that he now had the right to his bride’s virginity.  Today a garter represents one of the most intimate pieces of apparel that the bride can reserve for her groom.

These days the bride wears two garters, one for her keepsake and the other to be thrown at the ceremony.  Before the throw of the garter the bride first throws her bouquet to her single female guests.  Then the groom seats his bride on a chair in the middle of the dance floor and removes the garter from the bride’s leg, sometimes he does it with his teeth, but it’s more appropriately done with his hands.

After the garter has been removed, the groom throws it to his single male guests.  According to superstition, the male who catches the garter and the female who catches the bouquet are next to be married in the next 12 months.

The keepsake garter is saved for only the groom to see on their wedding night!

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Heather,

Xo

Wedding Hair Trial

Should I really splurge on a wedding hair trial?…YES! You want everything to be perfect, and that includes your hair! While doing a hair trial might feel like an indulgence, it’s actually a crucial step. The hair trial lets you know what you’re getting, and on your wedding day you may be too anxious or astounded to explain exactly what you really want. It’s also a chance to give your hairdo a test run: Head out on the town for a few hours afterwards to see if your ‘do holds up to normal wear. It beats discovering on the dance floor at your reception that those bobby pins won’t hold!

A trial may cost as much as an actual wedding day hair style
Although it seems crazy to pay for a hair ‘do’ that won’t actually be photographed, I highly suggest going for a trial run a couple weeks before the big day! Check with your salon and hairdresser because some salons will charge just as much for the trail as they will for the actual day.

Bring anything you might want in your hair to the trial.
Before you go to your trial research as many styles as possible so you can decide exactly the look you are expecting on your wedding day. Make sure you bring all of your hair accessories too, you may learn, that your sparkly that you thought would look perfect is far from it. Better to figure that out at the trial than on your wedding day.

However long it takes the stylist to do your wedding hairstyle at the trial is about how long it’ll take on your wedding day.
Make sure you jot down and confirm with your stylist exactly how long the trail will take. When getting ready on your wedding day leave the same amount of time to guarantee you don’t have to race to the alter.

Pay attention post-trial to your hair.
I’ve got naturally straight hair that doesn’t hold curls very well. Make sure you pay attention to your ‘do’ and alert your stylist of this so you can prepare in advance. Sometimes your stylist may have to use an entire can of hairspray to guarantee your hair lasts all night!

Photo Credit:Pinterst

Heather,

Xo

 

Flower Girls

The flower girl(s) is known for being one of the most adorable elements of the entire processional, and makes her(s) debut right before the bride.  Having a flower girl is not mandatory; however, it is a great way to make your favorite little cutie feel special.  Flower girls are usually members of the Bride or Groom’s extended family, but may also be daughters of close friends too.

The flower girl walks down the aisle tossing petals before the bride.  Her dress resembles that of the bride, and will be similar in color to the bridesmaids.   Here is a description of her role and some tips to help make her job laid-back and stress-free:

• The adorable little girl that you choose to be your flower girl is usually aged between three and eight. She follows the ring      bearer and traditionally holds a wicker basket full of petals. It is not uncommon now for her to hold a smaller bouquet, candies or confetti.
• I love the idea of having two flower girls so that they can progress together, side by side. Accompanying one another will give them additional self-assurance and allow them to have fun together.
• If possible, arrange to have the flower girl attend the bridal shower so they will identify faces prior to the wedding. Seeing  friendly, familiar faces on the big day will help to comfort any nervousness.
• It is vital to inform the flower girl(s) in advance of the importance of her role.  The parents should follow up with multiple rehearsals.
• Seat the flower girl’s parents toward the front of the ceremony so she can focus on them and be encouraged by their      smiles of encouragement. The very young flower girl should sit with her parents after she walks.  If your ceremony is short your flower girl(s) may stand with the bridal party at the altar.

 

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Heather,

Xo

DIY Glitter Table Numbers

DIY glitter table numbers are a fun and easy way to add a beautiful finishing touch to any wedding table! There is nothing better than adding your own personal flare to your wedding, and I can help you with this simple and cost efficient DIY guide!

What you need:

1. Wooden numbers
2. Glitter (any color of your choice!)
3. Tacky Glue
4. Wooden base blocks
5. Acrylic Paint
6. Paint Brushes
7. Hot glue gun and glue

1. Start by covering your wooden base evenly with acrylic paint (the choice of color is up to you!) Make sure you go over the base a couple of times so there is a solid layer of paint.

2. Cover your number in tacky glue and sprinkle the glitter on every side and edge, making sure you are covering every area.

 

3. Once everything is dry (about 2-3 hours), stick the bottom of the number to the wooden base using   a   thick layer of hot glue.

And there you have it!

Heather,

Xo

Cake Pops

Several people have asked me my thoughts on the perfect wedding favor and the first thing that comes to my mind is cake pops! Cake pops swept the internet like a tidal wave last year and are probably one of the most delicious treats I have tried!

The reason I say these are one of my favorite favors is because not only are they simply scrumptious and impossible to resist, but you can design them to match any wedding theme or style.

Cake pops are basically smushed balls of cake with frosting, dipped in chocolate and decorated with some kind of confection…who wouldn’t like this?!

Cake is never going to be a healthy item on our diet so thank goodness for these bite sized goodies! Cake pops are a delicacy that can be enjoyed by anyone and everyone, and are the perfect send off for the ride home!   When choosing your wedding favors you want to consider your guest list, and discover something that suits all!

These flawless cake pops below were made by my talented sister, Laura!

Heather,

Xo

The Language of Flowers

There are so many intricate details that must be in place before you walk down the aisle and choosing your bouquet is one of them. For those of you who have no idea about flowers, selecting your arrangements can be a stressful, daunting and expensive task!

Before you first walk into a florist, nail down the style you are aiming for – are you looking for classic and traditional, or would you prefer something wild and bright? Also, let the season of the wedding decide for you, chances are if your flowers are not in season finding them will consume the majority of your budget!

Gorgeous blooms make us happy, but let’s discover the language and symbolism of the flowers:

Alostromeria – friendship and devotion Photo Credit: www.floristdex.com

Amaryllis – pride, determination and beauty Photo Credit: www.flowermuse.com/

 Anemone – anticipation Photo Credit: www.flowermuse.com/

Carnation – love, fascination and distinction Photo Credit: www.flowermuse.com/

 Daffodils – happiness Photo Credit: www.flowermuse.com/

 Gladiolus – strength and moral integrity Photo Credit: www.almanac.com

Iris – valor and wisdom Photo Credit: www.almanac.com

Hydrangea – gratefulness Photo Credit: www.flowermuse.com/

Lilies – chastity and virtue Photo Credit: www.flowermuse.com/

Orchid – love, luxury, beauty and strength Photo Credit: www.flowermuse.com/

Peony – riches and honor Photo Credit: www.flowermuse.com/

 Rose – love, friendship and enchantment Photo Credit: www.flowermuse.com/

Sunflower – Adoration Photo Credit: www.almanac.com

Heather,
Xo

Spring 2014 Color Palette

Color news! Pantone have recently revealed their spring 2014 color report and I cannot wait to see what types of trends this brings to the wedding industry!  Designers have combined soft pastels with brights to generate a vibrant equilibrium!

Spring marks the start of our very busy wedding season so keep an eye out for our go-to spring color palette!

“This season, consumers are looking for a state of thoughtful, emotional and artistic equilibrium,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. “While this need for stability is reflected in the composition of the palette, the inherent versatility of the individual colors allows for experimentation with new looks and color combinations.”

For over 20 years, Pantone have examined the designers of New York Fashion Week to bring you the season’s most central color trends.

Keep your eyes open for these beauties this season!

Photo Credit: Pantone.com

Heather,

Xo

Choosing Your Florist

The floral arrangements designed for your wedding can make or break the entire look of your event.  Not only do flowers offer color, decoration, and a romantic sensation, but they also symbolize a variety of different things…soon to be covered in my next blog!

Flowers can help transform a formally unadorned space into a stunning personality-filled one.  These days, many florists who concentrate in weddings do not just create the bouquet; they apprehend and implement the design of your reception, altar, and centerpieces.

Most brides are often challenged with the question of how to find a florist they can afford and trust, but before you start looking, here are some tips on how to choose the perfect florist:

Photo Credit: Pinterest

1. Before you start looking for a florist start collecting some photos with floral decorations like you vision for your wedding
2. Discuss your finances and floral budget clearly so you know what you and your florist are working with
3. Research the reviews of florists in your area and schedule an appointment to meet with them
4. Ask for recommendations from your wedding planner or married friends

Heather,

Xo

The Role of the Ring Bearer

Ring bearers may be the most sweetest and charming, aww-inducing part of the processional, yet it’s not to be forgotten their huge responsibility! Right before the bride walks down the aisle, the ring bearer(s) will make their debut.  A ring bearer is usually a boy aged 4-8 years old and can be from either side of the bride or grooms family.

The ring bearer is one of the last to walk down the aisle, and will carry the rings (usually tied to a pillow or box).  Some couples choose not to give the ring bearer the real rings as at 6 years-old they tend to be a little boisterous and rough, so usually the rings are fake.  However, if you do choose to let your little rascal hold the actual rings, make sure you give them to him right before his unveiling to prevent him from losing them.

Whoever you chose for your special day, make sure you include your ring bearer at your rehearsal so he gets plenty of practice beforehand.

What they wear

Here are an assortment of styles for these cute little dudes:

Heather,

Xo

Matron of Honor

The Matron of Honor (MOH) has a HUGE role in planning the wedding, and let’s face it, keeping the bride completely sane!  When you are selecting the person that is going to be your MOH, you should naturally choose a person who is closest to you – a sister or close girlfriend. This person will offer you the support, love and guidance in the months leading up to the big event, and will be the go-to helping hand on the day of the wedding.

The MOH not only has to fluff the train on the wedding day, coordinate the bachelorette party and bridal shower, and rehearse her treasured speech on the day of the event, but she also has a huge list of other responsibilities too!

Here is a pre-wedding to-do list for all you lucky Matron of Honors!

• Plan the bridal shower and bachelorette party
• Spread the word of the wedding – help the bride track down RSVP’s and let others know where she is registered
• Help with dress shopping- this includes helping the bride find her perfect gown, and help with selecting the perfect bridesmaid dresses
• Be the brides go-to woman
• Prepare a few words to share with guests during the toasts
• Lend a helpful ear
• Attend all pre-wedding parties
• Keep a record of gifts received at various parties and showers
• Make sure all bridesmaids get their hair and makeup done and arrive at the ceremony on time
• Hold the brides bouquet and fluff her train during the ceremony
• Keep the bride smiling – MOST IMPORTANT!
• Sign the marriage license as a witness
• Check in with the bride frequently during the wedding

Heather,

Xo