Holiday Engagements
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and it can be even MORE wonderful if Santa baby brings some bling.
Craig asked me to marry him on December 23rd…right after a home cooked candlelight dinner. Yes ladies he cooks too, sorry he’s taken. With the Christmas tree sparkling beside us he dove to one knee and asked me for my hand, the way I always dreamed it would go. We were SO excited to see both of our families the next day to spread the news. It was an amazing way to start our holiday celebration. What made it so special is that I was truly convinced that it was our own little Christmas celebration that night, so I literally bought him work clothes and undies to open. So to say I was SHOCKED (and a little embarrassed) when I opened the RING is an understatement. That was GOOD though. I really wasn’t expecting it (which makes it that much better – but that’s another topic). I also loved the fact that he invited me to his home. The tree was lit and glowing candles set the mood at the formal table he set. He cooked and served me dinner. In the background he played the CD (yes, this was before ipods, etc.) mix (yes, a la “mix tape”) I made for him the Christmas before. It was so simple but so romantic and truly heartfelt. How could I say NO? Well, of course I DIDN’T.
Some people may feel “sharing” a holiday is not the way to go…you may even feel it’s cheesy or even a “cop out”. Some feel a separate date for an excuse to pop the bubbly is better. It all depends how you both feel. One thing’s for certain…be sure you make your feelings on this “date debate” known to the one you love. I liked the fact that our engagement was NEAR the holiday but not ON Christmas day. I also loved that he obviously thought about the timing too because he knew I’d want to show our families the rock right away. Of course we were seeing his family that night (yippee) and my family the very next day (perfecto). The anniversary of our engagement really makes every Christmas that much more special to us. Heck, I was just thrilled he WANTED to marry me! For most women though “sharing” that special day is just out of the question. They don’t want it to be the same day as their birthday, a big holiday or even on an anniversary. I think we all just want another excuse for a “date night” and/or more gifts. Am I right?
Just a little FYI – No matter how you may feel about a Christmas or holiday engagement – you must know that it is one of the most popular times of the year for proposals other than good ol’ Valentine’s day (don’t get your hopes up too high, I didn’t individually contact each and every one of your boyfriends). BUT…if Santa, gives you a ring…and I don’t mean on the phone – don’t be upset because of the DATE. Don’t let that over shadow what’s happening here. Two people are becoming one, and that’s bigger than any day printed on the calendar. And if you do get engaged (congrats, btw), you may want to take a peek at the next blog post featuring fun ideas for marrying during the holiday season (ya know, to plan for next year). Hey, if you get engaged over the holidays you may as well say “I do” during the most wonderful time of the year too!
Extra assistance for wedding guests with medical needs
Photo by Normand Labonville Photography
Getting married is a happy, fun time. But let’s face it, it can be stressful too. Trying to accommodate everyone is overwhelming. Some guests may have a hard time getting around, like grandparents or a guest who’s been ill. Certainly we’re not here to “bash” the mature loved ones in our crowd – mine would certainly shoo away any assistance. But if someone literally needs a helping hand, you can accommodate them with just a few considerations.
First, you may want to be sure your venue is handicap accessible. If not, see if there is another entrance or an easier way for people who may be “handicap-able” (Thank you, Glee) to easily get in and out. Make sure there are plenty of bathrooms – with an accessible stall as well.
Keep in mind some may be hard of hearing or may be super sensitive to noise, be sure those guests are seated towards the front of the ceremony. On the other hand, at the reception – seat them away (even across the room) from the loud DJ or band speakers and try to keep the volume at a happy medium for all guests. During dinner be sure the music is soft piano or jazz music so conversation can be enjoyed.
Are you worried about how they’ll get from here to there? Does one of your relatives need one on one attention? Well, no need to fear. You don’t need to assign Cousin Susie this responsibility. Call in the pros at Home Helpers. Yes, they usually provide professional care at home but they can help out at events too. Escorting your guest to the beauty salon, buffet, bathroom, ballroom and back home – makes for a worry free day for you, your family and especially the person at your party (they don’t want to feel like they’re bothering anyone either).
We all assume it’s the elderly who need the help, but sometimes it’s the mom or dad of the bride or groom (or any other guest) who may have suffered an accident or are battling a disease that keeps them in the hospital or rehab. You may think because they are not able to be home means they’ll have to miss your big day. Well, they don’t have to miss your “I dos” thanks to the folks at Home Helpers. The company offers transport service to and from as well as getting the guest ready for the day. The compassionate caregivers help manage all the excitement and keep the person at ease – all while taking cues from the patient.
“I just helped out a mother of the bride who suffers from a traumatic brain injury, she was so nervous about embarrassing her daughter…I kept her calm and helped her navigate through the day” says Home Helpers owner, Bonnie Roberts. “I took her to the salon, then to the hotel with the bridesmaids and helped her get dressed…she felt like she really was a part of the day, she was just beaming”.
The extra pair of hands may be something you haven’t even thought of for your wedding day. Well, lucky for you, My Bridal Dream offers a “Things You Haven’t Thought Of” category to their brides as part of their FREE (yes – FREE) membership. This exclusive category is filled with ideas you may have overlooked – or frankly, never even thought of – making the planning process and the party that much more perfect for everyone.
Christmas AND Wedding Bells?
Christmas Bride
Getting married during the holidays can just add to the Christmas cheer (plus most function facilities and places of worship have already decked the halls). But, remember people are much busier during the most wonderful time of the year and certain things are pricier too. So plan ahead and get creative.
Heads Up
First things first, be sure the important peeps are there to witness your vows by sending out a “Save the Date” at least 8 months in advance. You know yourself any date between November and January is going to be tough. Also, be sure to send your invitations out earlier than usual too. Try to get them in your guests hands 12 weeks before your date.
Dashing Dresses
Now’s the time to really go for the wedding dress color trend. Walk down the isle in a red, burgundy or green gown…or go for ivory, ice blue or white with lots of sparkles. If you want to stick with white or ivory, add a little pop of color with a sash or pretty winter cape. LOVE that look. Bridesmaids can also take part in the winter wear with pretty white muffs or fuzzy shawls.
Seasonal Centerpieces
‘Tis the season to decorate! Buy ornaments in bulk that happen to be in the colors of your wedding (or complement them) and fill various styles of vases with the festive decor. Really get into the spirit with mini pre-lit Christmas trees as your sparkling centerpieces. Add some color to the branches with mini ornaments (you could probably save big bucks if you stock up at a craft or dollar store off season). You could opt for warm flickering candles on mirrors if you want a more romantic feel. Want something edible? Stock up on candy canes or other festive looking sweets and fill sparkly over-sized candy dishes with colorful candy concoctions. Floral bouquets are gorgeous but could break the bank during the holiday season. Talk to your florist about affordable options. You may want to create an icy looking broach bouquet you can carry as you walk down your winter wonderland isle sprinkled with snowflake confetti.
Festive Favors
Favors with a theme are so FUN! You could go nuts, if you wanted. Personalize ornaments and have them hanging on a tree or two right where guests enter and exit. Place holiday cookie cutters (or do either in just a snowflake shape) at each place setting with a little poem or phrase tied on with ribbon. Little silver bells are sweet – especially if guests want to influence you both to smooch during the reception. They could also double as ornament favors too. If you think about it, the bells have a double meaning – you could relate the prop to “ringing” in the New Year as a new couple.
*SINGING* It’s beginning to look a lot like….your WEDDING! Hmm?
Wedding Invite Wording
You may think coming up with the wording of your wedding invite will be simple as pie (yum pie) – but before you go ahead and order up your slice of special stationary, stop and think about the message you’re conveying. Many feel that the very traditional stance of naming the bride’s parent’s on the invite (since they most likely are footing the bill) is the most acceptable, but is it that important to give them all the credit? Is your wedding about giving high fives to those who paid for it? The invite should give insight to the look and feel of your special day…a sneak peak, if you will, of your main event. You may want to discuss the wording options and design with your groom, the parents and a non-bias friend – or two.
I was snooping on Facebook (per usual) and a bride had asked about invite wording. Her future in-laws wanted to be mentioned in the invite but they weren’t contributing the monetary amount the bride’s parents were – so the bride really didn’t want to include their names. Think about this people…do you REALLY want to start your marriage out by fighting with your future family? The answer is – drum roll please…a big fat heck to the NO – in case you’re wondering. When planning your wedding lots of issues will come up – some as big as religion – some as small as the place cards. Do yourself a favor and really pick and choose those battles. Your groom’s parents are a giant part of your day (and the rest of your life, btw) so be gracious and include their names on the invite if it’s important to them. Get in their good graces…it will only benefit everyone!
So, where should you begin? The options are literally endless…but here is an idea for an invite that is all inclusive…
Mr. and Mrs. Craig DiFillipo
and
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Smith
Together with their children
Invite you to share in the joy of the marriage of
Sofia Ann DiFillipo
and
Ryan Michael Smith
On Saturday, the twelfth of April
Two thousand and thirteen
At eleven o’clock in the morning
Manchester Country Club
180 South River Road
Bedford, NH
See? All you need is the right wording in there and family feuds are avoided.
When everyone is talking about you and your new love, planning parties around you and gracing you with gifts and well wishes, enjoy it – but try to remember to respect the wishes of your family and friends during such a “me focused” time. Weddings are happy celebrations (they should be, anyway)– try to keep the peace (it really will make everything that much more fun). I know, keeping it all in check is yet another thing for you to worry about. But, it’s worth it. Fight (well, don’t FIGHT, discuss and stand your ground – respectfully) for what’s important to you and your groom but try not to make everything into a battle. At the end of the day, if you’re lucky, a lot of people are working together to make this day happen for you. Focus on the joy of two families coming together – not excluding the people who are (or will be) some of the most important folks in your lives.
Best Bay State Spots to Say “I do”
If you’re planning a wedding in the Bay State, you’re not only lucky in love, you’re lucky in location. From mansions, to golf courses, beaches and harbors, there are lots of choices and the choice is all yours.
To help you get started, check out five favorite spots to say “I do” in Massachusetts.
Misselwood at Endicott College, Beverly, MA
I’m a Power Gull…no, I’m totally sober. A proud Gull (yes a giant seagull is the mascot) of Endicott College…my Alma mater. One of the many reasons why I chose to attend the small college (at the time) was the amazingly beautiful campus and the fact that it’s literally ON the water. Like, I am talking ON the water. So, if your wedding dreams are filled with sea shells, crashing waves and beaches…I’d say this would be your spot. The lawn behind Misselwood, the gorgeous, elegant mansion featuring tents with chandeliers and a wooden dance floor (bring the comfy shoes) is the ideal spot for cocktail and dinner wedding receptions. Just imagine what your pictures will look like with such a backdrop!
Boston Harbor Cruise, Long Wharf, Boston, MA
*Singing loudly*…The loovvee booaat…Speaking of boat (and love)…why not treat your guests to a Boston Harbor Cruise wedding? You and your party goers board a giant luxury vessel reserved JUST for you…(you want your day to be all about the two of you, right?). Champagne, dancing, amazing views of Boston’s Skyline along the Harbor – what could be more romantic? Note to self – the dress is not a floatation device.
Granite Links Golf Club, Quincy, MA
If your clubs are always prepared to hit the green, this 27 hole course may be calling your name for more than just a game of golf. Granite Links was recently named to Golf Digest’s prestigious list of “100 Greatest Golf Courses in America!” And it isn’t a half bad backdrop for a wedding event either. No matter where you look you’ll get a scenic view. Where else can you experience Boston’s skyline, the Harbor Islands, and the Blue Hills Reservation all around you? Let the photo options begin. The clubhouse ballroom and tented Pavilion provide an elegant setting to say “I do.”
Royal Sonesta Hotel, Cambridge, MA
Talk about a room with a view…try many rooms with many views! The Royal Sonesta Hotel offers outdoor and indoor options galore for your dream wedding day. Exchange vows with the backdrop of the Charles River as your guests relax in the classy but comfy Riverside Terrace, a 3,000 square foot unique outdoor event space. Or, if you always dreamed of a grand ballroom setting (complete with floor to ceiling mirrors) – the hotel offers that option too…along with many other one-of-a-kind spaces that embrace the breathtaking views.
Cruiseport Gloucester, Gloucester, MA
Waltz into Cruiseport’s 6,000 square foot grand ballroom through the classic lighthouse turret. Vaulted ceilings and giant windows give every guest an unobstructed view of Gloucester’s historic harbor. This waterfront property hosts three major businesses all on one dock…the city’s first and only Homeland Security licensed cruise ship and marine terminal, wedding and function venue, and a packed (like waiting list packed) Seaport Grille, a harborfront restaurant. Sounds like it’s just a summer spot, right? Wrong-o. It’s open year round. If your dream includes a winter wonderland wedding with harbor views – this is the place.
Share Your Love Story!
Beautiful Centerpiece by A Floral Affair
My cake collapsed into my Mom- in- laws arms, (I didn’t even notice), my DJ’s equipment skipped – leading the best group karaoke party you’ve ever seen (or heard), I didn’t write a WORD of my vows – I winged it. My point, you ask? No matter how much you plan, prepare, and possibly pray – something will most likely happen on your wedding day you will not expect. Trust me – you will laugh about it later. It will even become part of your fondest memories.
Most of you reading this are probably engaged. Congrats! It’s such an exciting time – but (there’s always a BUT) along your dating, engagement and/or wedding bliss there will always be a tale or two or three…you get the point. So, I’ve been brave, I’ve shared some of my stories (no worries, there’s more). Now it’s time to share yours. Whether it’s a unique way he or she asked for your hand, a creative wedding idea you are trying (or accomplished already), or something that didn’t go quite right…get your “writing cap” on.
Head to My Bridal Dream’s Facebook page, leave a comment or send a private message with your story and email. You may be featured in a future blog post. Yes, I’m serious!
Thanks for playing!
Insure your engagement ring and wedding bands
Eva Milgrain by Jean Dousset Diamonds
My husband lost his original wedding band. Urgh. I know, you’re probably sitting there saying; And you’re STILL married to him? Yep, I’m a saint. Actually, at the time I was hugely distracted – my Dad was in the hospital and the hubby would take off his ring to sanitize his hands and then (hopefully) put it back on. I believe one time, the ring didn’t go back on. It’s just a guess. We have yet to find it. I bought him a replacement ring for Father’s Day and as far as I know, he hasn’t lost ring #2 yet. My point? Insure your engagement ring and go ahead and insure his band too (we didn’t, by the way).
I know, it may seem silly to you at the moment since you may not be wearing the 14 carat bling (yes FOURTEEN) rocker Avril Lavigne is sporting (she just got engaged to Nickleback’s lead singer Chad Kroeger). But, it’s an important step that many newly engaged couples simply forget…like forgetting where the ring went, possibly *smirk*. Even if you think it’s ridiculous, it’s just another thing checked off the “wedding to do list”. It will put your mind at ease knowing the most valuable thing you own (sentimentally and probably monetary – up to this point) is protected.
So where do you go from here? Be sure to have the receipts and an appraisal. For a small fee, a certified gemologist can do the job. You can have it insured as part of your renter’s or homeowner’s policy as a “ring rider” – but it may not cover everything that can happen to your precious rock. Be sure to ask questions because different plans cover different circumstances. Know what the policy covers – the plan may cover the entire cost of the ring or just a fraction. What happens if the ring is lost or stolen? How do you measure the value if it’s vintage or one-of-a-kind ring? Know the claim process and what sort of proof you may need on hand. Lastly, don’t forget to ask – what’s NOT covered. I mean, if you flush it down the drain – does the insurance swirl down the tubes with it?
If you’re thinking you’ll never take the ring off – please refer to the first paragraph again. Your best bet? As soon as that sparkly jewel hits your finger, call the insurance pro. That’s what companies like Able Insurance are there for, to get you a plan that fits what you need so you can concentrate on the next important fit – your wedding gown.
How do I ask my friends and family to be in my wedding?
When you were little, do you remember coloring pictures of yourself all dressed in white with your stick figure bridesmaids all in a row? Don’t tell me I was the only one dreaming up my wedding day with the help of my crayons. Now that the time has come, how do you plan on asking your closest family members and bestest of friends to stand beside you? Well, most people just simply ask. But I think its fun to make it a bigger deal – after all – it is a big deal! They’ll be helping you along for the rest of your engaged days – emotionally and financially. Don’t just choose a person because you feel obligated. And if you expect the ‘maids to be piecing together favors and printing programs, you may not want to pick people who live far away. So, take your time and choose wisely. These should be the people you envision in your life – forever.
Will You Accept This Rose?
When Craig and I got engaged, everyone kept asking how many people were going to be in our wedding party, who we were going to ask and when we were going to do the asking. I didn’t want to tell anyone until it was official. I always felt celebrating every step (of every occasion) was important and I really wanted to recognize every person who was taking this big step with us in a special way. When Craig popped the question, a new little show called The Bachelor had just launched. Since I am a wise guy (or girl), I thought it would be funny to ask our bridal party if they would “accept this rose”. At our engagement party (thrown by our best buds) I grabbed a dozen roses and started by saying how excited we were about our big day and how happy we were to share it with everyone. Then I began handing out flowers to the junior bridesmaid, bridesmaids then to my two maids of honor (yes, two – I couldn’t choose between them) saying a sentence or two about our relationship and asking “if they’d accept this rose as my bridesmaid”. Everyone got the relation to the show and really got a kick out of the idea. Last, but certainly not least, I thanked our parents and gave little bouquets to both Moms. Not only was the engagement party a blast, but it served a great purpose. It got our two families and wedding group together before all the big festivities. Try to meet up with your attendants early on so they can all get comfortable with each other before all the planning begins.
Feed Your Friends with Love
Flowers and food – great combo if ya ask me. My sister-in-law was all over the food. She and her fiancé invited us over for dinner one night (along with my in-laws). We just had a casual, relaxing evening. When it came time for dessert, she carried out cookies – giant heart shaped cookies with “Will you be a part of our wedding?” written in icing. She met each one of her bridesmaids in person and handed them the cookies in a pretty gift bag. What a fun way to pop the question!
Jot It Down
Hand-written notes are few and far between these days. If you have relatives or friends that live further away, this is a great way to ask them to take part in your ceremony. A personal note with an “old” (I know, you’re not old) photo of the two of you is a sweet way to ask her (or him) to be a part of your day. Your stationary vendor may be able to create a personalized card with your wedding colors and date. You can add something like “Remember when we’d dream about being in each other’s weddings? Well, now I’m asking you to be my bridesmaid for real”. *Tear*
Photo Flashback
One of my favorite things to do with friends was collages…remember picking through magazines for just the right phrases to stick onto all the crazy photos? A framed collage of pictures of the past and present is a great gift to present to your future wedding party. Now a lot of free photo programs offer a “collage tool” easily throwing your pictures into a perfectly scattered masterpiece. Where were these computer programs when we were teeny boppers?
No matter how you choose to ask your attendants – family, friend, guy or girl – doesn’t matter. What does matter is surrounding yourself with loved ones who support you, your groom and would leap in front of a moving bus for both of you…oh, you get what I mean.
How can I thank my parents for my dream wedding?
So your wedding day may be getting close, and you still have no idea what to get your Mom or Dad (you know the people who’ve done everything for you) for a “thank you” gift. You want it to be sentimental, you want it to somehow relate to your wedding and you want them to cry…I mean love it…but really, a few tears wouldn’t hurt. I kid, I kid.
You’re probably already sick of hearing this, but I’m all about photos, so I got the parents and in-laws to be engraved brag books they could proudly display on the mantel filled with our wedding pictures. Even though this sounds like a simple solution to the whole gift dilemma – it wasn’t. I agonized over it…will it be enough, is it sentimental enough…what else would I get them? The big problem is my parents never really had hobbies or collections – they brought up four kids – there wasn’t much time or room for extras. My in-laws have more interests making the gift giving process a tad easier – but not much help when it came to a gift like this.
Recently, something that instantly brought a tear to my eye was a handkerchief embroidered with;
“Dad, Today a Bride, Tomorrow a Wife, Always your Daughter. Love, Erica April 24, 2010”.
Where are the tissues? What a sweet present. Dad can carry it on the wedding day and every day after that (take a break for washing, of course). The perfect pairing? Pick up one for Mom too.
I love the hanky, but my Dad and I were never really the gushy sentimental type. So here are a few “guys, guy” gift ideas. Cufflinks. Duh, I know – but he’ll always have them and they’re useful – guys appreciate useful. Make it personal with his initials. A Monogram leather watch box is perfectly manly and great for the guy in your life who may be little obsessed with his time keepers. Getting married in the winter? Help him get cozy with a personalized fleece blanket.
All Bottled Up
Do your parents appreciate wine? Oh, I do. Anyway back to you. Create your own personalized bottle of wine. Make a day of it with your future spouse and brew up your own beer or vino (some brewing spots even offer soda). You can create your own label and take home a case or two for gifts (think bridal party “thank you” gifts too). To top it all off (literally) pick out a special initial wine cork or put the bottle in a beautiful wooden box. You can create quite the connoisseurs gift basket – adding cocktail napkins, cheese and crackers, wine glasses and charms.
Time Stands Still…We wish!
We all feel like 24 hours in a day just isn’t enough, right? We all could use a little more time here and there (and I am sure you’re especially feeling like time is running out). But a parent looks at a wedding day as if their time as Mom and Dad is up. See where I am going here? A clock is a great way to symbolize how much you appreciate every moment they’ve spent with you. Add a meaningful quote or even private joke chiseled on a glass or wooden clock relating to “time” (what else?). Can’t think up anything? How about this one;
“The best gift and investment you can give your child is your time.” -Kevin Heath
You can even add your own verse (or something like this can stand on its own);
“Thanks for making every moment a special memory. Love, Cindy & Craig” (just don’t use our names…awkward).
Melodies and Memories
My grandmother had a music box that I always loved. It seemed magical. I still remember the song to this day. This is a great way to thank Mom too. A friend of mine gave her Mom one that played “Wind Beneath My Wings”. I think every Momma loves that song. Each time she reaches in for a pair of earrings she’ll think of you and your special day.
Charmed, I’m sure
Speaking of jewelry, why not mark the occasion with a charm? Add to Mom’s existing bracelet or get one for her (you can even stick the charm or bracelet in the musical jewelry box for an extra surprise). It’s the gift that keeps on giving too – you can build up her bracelet every holiday and it’s a great chance to remind her that there are many more great memories to come (ie: grandchildren). Has she started with that already? Don’t worry, it’s coming.
Picking My Bridal Bouquets, Where do I begin?
Beautiful by Lady Slipper Creations
Roses are red, violets are blue, I don’t know what to pick for flowers, I could scream! *SIGH* Doesn’t rhyme. Whatever.
Ahhh flowers. They add beauty to just about anything, don’t they? If you’re a bride (and I am guessing you are) flowers just don’t look the same to you any more…or maybe they ALL look the same to you now and they are all just blurring together. No need to fear, from bouquets to boutonnieres, here are some fresh picked ideas for your wedding posse.
So where did this whole idea of boutonnieres come from, you ask? You know me, I have to know the meaning behind it! Here we go; in medieval times, knights wore flowers on their lapels in their ladies “colors” to literally show their love. The boutonniere is hardly ever worn nowadays, but if you decide on this accessory for your men, the flowers should compliment the bridal parties’ bouquets but does not have to be matchy – matchy (those days are gone, sista). You can get creative with the pro’s help.
Now back to the ladies! Picking the right flowers all starts with the right florist. How do you know you have the right miracle worker? Well, Lady Slipper Creations – Innovative Floral Design created a quick list you can keep in your purse:
1. Do start looking early – good florists book up quickly!
2. Don’t rush into signing a contract – meet with at least 3 florists to find the perfect fit, and be fussy.
3. Insist on personal service – you want the attention to be on you and your wedding day.
4. Know your budget and stick to it. Always ask questions about fees, taxes, etc. Beware of extra charges that might show up on your final bill.
5. Keep in contact with the pro you pick.
Another important tip: Decide on your theme or mood – and I don’t mean “medieval times” with reenactments at the reception – but then again, if that’s your thing, who am I to judge?
Seriously, though, are you going for glam (Check out these glamourous wedding dresses on Glamour weddings)? Keeping it casual? Choosing a general direction can really help narrow down the choices. There’s most likely a flower for every wedding style out there. Have a favorite color in mind? That may help decide the mood you’re trying to create. If you’re a pink person, you may be looking for an overall soft romantic feel. Radiant red shades are classic and formal. Whites most commonly portray a more sophisticated wedding. Bring pictures to the pro during your consultation – it’s a great way to show your style (even if you feel you don’t have a clue).
If you’re planning to portray pure elegance – go big – keep the bouquets (yours and your pals standing beside you) to one flower and make them above average size.
This beautiful alternative is something called a composite bouquet. It basically looks like one big giant flower (it’s made up of couple of the same style flowers and built up to the size you’d like). So classy and unique! I love it. What would be really pretty is having your ladies walk in with smaller versions of your composite in different colors.
If you want to base your choice on season, let’s start with spring (since it’s really the most colorful and flower friendly). Let’s face it, as much as you don’t want your wedding to be all girly and pink…you may want your flowers to be!
Go with yellow tree peonies, tulips, fuchsia peonies don’t be afraid to mix it up – you can add texture with foliage. Have the ‘maids tiptoe down the aisle with tulips for a really inventive display.
Greenery, long stems, daisies and baby’s breath are all sure signs of summer. Something to keep in mind; Lilies and tropical flowers (like orchids) can beat the heat. Other arrangements may wilt or brown if the weather is extreme.
I love a fresh take on a fall bouquet – it’s not just the usual flowers blasted with autumn colors. Ask your florist about late-season aubergine dahlias with white-tipped petals (the white tips really make it all “pop”). Mums are also a sure sign of this season…mix them in with some orange and deep red roses.
In the cold winter months – shades of white and cream are beautiful together – especially with some sparkle (think icy).
You can go all out with a winter wonderland theme and carry an acrylic snowflake! I normally would say this is a little “far out there” – but it’s grown on me.
Miranda Lambert weds Blake Shelton
The idea of jewels in place of petals is getting more popular thanks to country star Miranda Lambert.
She famously carried a bejeweled bouquet filled with accessories from her family. The “Brooch bouquet” can be a sentimental keepsake from your day – you can display anywhere. Allison’s Insights highlighted a sparkly blue show stopper inspired by The Titanic.
This could be a cool “DIY” project too (I know, like you don’t have enough to do). Talk to grandma, your Mom and future female “in-laws” and gather brooches and jewelry they are no longer wearing. This tutorial is amazing if you want to go for it!
I had NO clue what to pick for flowers. Like most of us, I love roses and romance and anything red. So, that’s what I went with. I carried a medium size bunch of red roses, with some white stephanotis, and faux red calla lilies (I loved the calla lilies but didn’t want to break the bank – the florist was nice enough to throw in a few real looking fakes – I had no idea). The bridesmaids each carried a smaller bunch of white and red roses in silver “tussy mussies” – it’s a small sort of vase (instead of being intertwined in ribbon). I loved the contrast of the red against my white gown and the white against my ‘maids red gowns. I didn’t even think we needed flowers in the beautiful country club (like I said, I had NO idea what I was doing) – but they totally change the setting. My sister-in-law got married there years later and I couldn’t believe how different the very same room looked with the spring like colors. Sit down with a florist that will help you conjure up the wedding of your dreams…it could all come down to something as simple as a favorite flower.
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