wedding planning
Congratulations, you’re engaged! Many people dream of a beautiful wedding but dread the financial aftermath. Wedding costs can quickly mount up, so it’s no surprise that end up spending more than their financial means. The best way to avoid feeling overwhelmed with the cost of a wedding is to consider your financial situation first.
Weddings have an environmental footprint just like everything else in life. And it can impact in many different ways, from food waste to plastic use.
Read Moreby Kacey Bradley
It's often a challenge to navigate the design aspect of a room, especially for an event. You want to create a space that works for its specific purpose but also sparks interest and engagement. Several variables go into every meeting and gathering, so before all else, it's necessary to consider how those factors into your potential layout. Here are a few ways to produce the best possible atmosphere for whatever occasion you're planning.
What's the Theme?
What matters most is the overall goal of the event, so first, consider what you want guests to get out of the experience. Are you throwing a birthday party? What about a concert at a smaller venue? Everything depends on why you're using the space.
For instance, designing a conference room for a company is going to be a lot different than a wedding reception. In the first room, you'll require a communal desk space with comfortable chairs and technology hook-ups. In the second, a seating chart with multiple tables is almost always the case. Take a look at what elements you'll need in the room to make it work.
Consider All Attendees
The number of people that are expected to attend matters significantly. Most venues adhere to local fire codes that limit the number of guests that can be in a room at any given time. Check to make sure you're aware of this so you can plan accordingly.
If your event is open to the public, have a surplus of tables and chairs, just in case more guests show up than you originally estimated. You'll also want to allow space for people to move around. No one wants to feel cramped, especially in the case of an emergency. Remember, there's a good chance that guests with disabilities will attend, so be sure to accommodate them, as well.
Think of Every Scenario
To make the most of your event, you'll want to ensure everything is taken care of. Will you need to serve food and drink? If so, figure out the best way to do this — buffets are great for social interaction, but a conference with speakers or talent could work better with a wait staff.
Are there emergency exits? What's the bathroom situation? Are there pieces of furniture that can't be removed? Are the tables organized in a way that promotes conversation? There's a list of possibilities you should tick off as a part of the planning process. The more you cover your bases, the better engaged your guests will be.
Determine the Vibe
How your event space feels matters just as much as how it looks. A hip, romantic restaurant is a wonderful place for speed-dating, but not so much for a national business conference. Again, consider the space in relation to the purpose of the gathering. Open and bright areas help create an environment of positivity and cheerfulness, which is essential for networking. A dim and intimate lounge is ideal for jazz and acoustic musicians to perform.
The furniture matters just as much, so don't hesitate to rent pieces if the place lacks the appropriate decor.
Prepare, Prepare, Prepare
When the day of the event comes around, you'll want to have done your homework. Choose a space that works specifically for your event and guests. Construct everything in a way that allows for interaction and engagement. In some cases, the more amenities you provide, the better the experience your guests will have — it all depends on the purpose of your gathering.
About the Author
Kacey Bradley is the blogger behind The Drifter Collective, an eclectic lifestyle blog that expresses various forms of style through the influence of culture and the world around us. Kacey graduated with a degree in Communications while working for a lifestyle magazine. She has been able to fully embrace herself with the knowledge of nature, the power of exploring other locations and cultures, all while portraying her love for the world around her through her visually pleasing, culturally embracing and inspiring posts. Along with writing for her blog, she has written for sites like U.S. News, SUCCESS, Ruffled, and more!
Follow Kacey on Twitter and subscribe to her blog to keep up with her travels and inspiring posts!
Because this is something you will cherish for the rest of your life it is very important that you plan it properly. Even though weddings are a joyous occasion, all the planning, expectations bring the most stress. But don't let it get to you, don't get obsessed over the perception because you will make yourself miserable and lose track of your plans. Take a moment and look around at the people that are there to support the love between you and your partner. No dress, cake or decor is more important than the success of your marriage.
Pick The Perfect Wedding Venue
There is no doubt that the most challenging part of wedding planning is finding the perfect venue. By all the visiting and researching pays off when you finally book the wedding venue that is perfect for your needs, budget and fulfil your visions. But unfortunately, most people don't really know what kind of venue they would like to get married, and what will be right for their needs.
Searching for the perfect wedding venue is often presented as a super easy and fast choice, and unfortunately, that is not true. Not everyone has been dreaming about their perfect wedding venue and know what they need and want.
Yes, people can help you by suggesting venues and themes but when it comes to choosing the venue it is a personal choice and no one can tell you want to choose.
Have The Perfect Makeup
It doesn't matter how good you are at doing makeup, you don't want to wait till your wedding day to try out your wedding day makeup look. It is important that you practice until you have it processed and until you are pleased with every detail of it. Don't feel stupid, take notes of what and where you are putting on what makeup to help you master your look.
While false eyelashes are not necessary and most times they look really fake getting eyelash extensions will definitely benefit your whole wedding makeup look. Not only will it accentuate your eyes, but it will also make you feel super confident and it will actually help get rid of the stress of wondering if your mascara is going to run or if your fake eyelashes are going to fall off.
They are great because they aren't fake and they fit in with everyone's style and look fairly natural. Even the photographers said that long luscious eyelashes will accentuate your look in photos and real life.
Have A Proper Diet
Because your wedding is one of the most important days of your life, it is not worth listening to the gossip meal plans and low-calorie diets that are in all the magazines. You should always be eating well and healthy, especially on a big day like your wedding.
Hydrate and refuel. Your wedding week is no time to underestimate the importance of drinking heavy amounts of water and eating healthy nourishing foods. Staying hydrated and eating healthy is crucial for giving your body straight to manage the nerves and emotions. Don't think your dress will fit better if you start skipping meals.
Relax
Because wedding planning comes with so much to do and think about it is unavoidable that you will get overwhelmed at some point. Clear your head, sleep well, meditate by taking deep breaths in and out for a few minutes during the day and it will help slow down your heat and make you feel relaxed.
Before you start getting ready for the big day, go take a walk, go for fun or jog or just dance around the house to get your body moving. Physical movement will help you lower your stress levels.
Your wedding is your time to shine, don't let stress ruin your magical day. At the end, it won't matter if a storm comes sweeping through or your zipper breaks, you are marrying the love of your life and nothing can get in the way of that.
Author bio:
Maggie Holmes is a passionate blog writer who is keen on writing about beauty, wedding, technology and design. Her hobby is to surf the net to find amazing articles that can inspire her with some fresh ideas for article writing. She loathes being a common person who wastes her time. Follow her on twitter at
Amanda Vick courtesy of Unsplash
Even though we’re still living in the wonderful time of fall, before we know it, winter will be here. Along with enjoying typical winter activities such as sledding and skiing, winter is also another great time for gorgeous weddings. It’s less popular than some other wedding seasons like Spring and Fall. But it has just as much beauty to offer! If you’re planning on having your wedding during the time of winter wonderland, here are some ways to make your big day as unique as possible.
Have a Hot Chocolate Bar
We all know that wintertime is the best and most enjoyable time to indulge in a delicious cup of hot chocolate. If you really want to make your wedding extra special, set up a hot chocolate bar for your guests. With toppings you can offer such as coconut, chocolate chips, marshmallows and perhaps alcohol for those of age, this will be a great addition to your wedding and will keep your guests both warm and hydrated throughout the night.
Katya Austin courtesy of Unsplash
Add in Unexpected Color
While winter weddings are common for including typical colors such as green, white and silver, if you want to add uniqueness to your wedding, include unexpected colors! This can be done in several ways. One way is through adding in colorful wedding accessories. If you want your jewelry to stand out, dare to include a pair of emerald or purple earrings and pair it with a multi-colored necklace. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, think about including bright colors into your hairstyle. By applying a hair coloring conditioner, you have the option to dye your hair whatever color and however intense a shade you desire! Whether you want to include a colorful shawl into your outfit or add in color throughout your makeup and bridal hairstyle, adding in bright colors will be a great way to add a little something extra to your day.
Kelly Sikkema courtesy of Unsplash
Offer Your Guests Blankets
Whether you plan on having your wedding ceremony inside or outside, with wintertime, it’s extremely easy for your guests to be cold. In order to add a cozy touch and for your guests to not have to rely on their winter coats, offer each and every one of your guests a blanket. Not only will these blankets help to keep your guests warm throughout the night, but they can double as wedding favors as well. You can offer plaid blankets to fit the cozy winter theme or have each blanket monogrammed with you and your partner’s name. Whatever you decide to do, offering your guests blankets will definitely be useful throughout the night.
Have a Carriage Ride
What could be better to include in a winter wedding than a romantic, seasonal carriage ride? This won’t only give your guests a chance to enjoy the beautiful outdoor scenery, but it will be the unexpected and unique experience your guests will never forget. You can choose to have it during the wedding reception, at the end of the night or even possibly use it as a mode of transportation for your guests from the ceremony to the reception!
Contributed by Kacey Bradley
Nothing is quite as intimate and cozy as an at-home wedding in the great outdoors. But, there's a few tips you should keep in mind to turn tying the knot outside into a breeze. Here's a look at 8 ways you can prep your outdoor arrangements for the upcoming big day.
1. Personalize Your Space
One of the biggest perks of throwing a wedding at your home is having the freedom to customize your space entirely to your needs.
Let your style and personality reflect your outdoor decor and arrangements. Because it's your home, you can add any details you please! Whether you decide to hang up personalized banners or trickle rose petals across your front lawn, one of the best ways to prep for an outdoor wedding is to let go of boundaries and fully customize your space.
2. Get Organized
You don't want your guests to fumble over hoses and rakes on your wedding day, right? Never underestimate the importance of giving your outdoor area a good ol' cleaning.
There are many different ways to organize the outside of your home, so you can add a touch of personalization to your sense of organization, too. Use flattering furniture that doubles as storage to store away tools, lawn equipment and general outdoor accessories.
3. Incorporate the Theme
You may have your indoor decorations down to the T, but can you claim the same for your outdoor arrangements, too? Establish a theme that is apparent both indoors and outside.
If you don't have a theme already in place, now's the perfect time to brainstorm one! Themes contribute to a memorable experience. As an added bonus, they make your wedding day photos even more personal, too.
4. Invest in a Tent
No matter where you live, the weather goes by its own schedule. While outdoor plans may leave you vulnerable to the elements, an easy way to safeguard your wedding from unpredictable weather is to set up a tent to comfortably protect your guests.
Tents provide shade in hot temperatures and protection against water when it rains or snows. Do a headcount of your guest list to invest in the perfectly proportioned tent for your festivities.
5. Check for Pests
Make sure that your guests are the only ones digging into your delicious dishes on the day of your wedding by ridding your outdoor space of pests and bugs beforehand.
If you notice any bee or hornets nests, you'll want to remove them safely with the help of an expert. Remove any free standing water, leaves or piled up debris in your yard to deter small animals from visiting your lawn.
If you plan to eat outdoors at your wedding, light some citronella candles to ward off insects and other pests. On your wedding day, your human guests should be the only one enjoying your food!
6. Prep the Furniture
Chances are, you won't have enough seating or tables available on-hand to accommodate all of your guests. To minimize your costs, consider hiring a rental company to supply you with all of your outdoor furnishings required for the event.
7. Don't Forget the Lights
The darkness may be romantic and mysterious, but nothing spells disaster quite like navigating through an outdoor space without lighting.
Make a landscape lighting plan and decide which area of your space you want to brighten up during your big day. Common areas that often require additional lighting include dance floors, dining areas, pathways and anywhere guests will be seated.
Soft lights add to the ambiance and can really tie together the look of your wedding. You don't have to settle for harsh lights. Consider using Chinese lanterns, candles or string lights when possible.
8. Envision Your Wedding Day
The best way to prepare your outdoor space for a wedding is to create a mental image of how you picture your actual wedding day. Never go into your preparation blindly to avoid potential confusion or unwanted arrangements.
Discuss your plans with your soon-to-be-bride or groom and come to an agreement on your outdoor must-have accessories, decor and festivities. Then, the next step is to put these actions in motion so that you can successfully enjoy the big day!
Kacey Bradley is the blogger behind The Drifter Collective, an eclectic lifestyle blog that expresses various forms of style through the influence of culture and the world around us. Kacey graduated with a degree in Communications while working for a lifestyle magazine. She has been able to fully embrace herself with the knowledge of nature, the power of exploring other locations and cultures, all while portraying her love for the world around her through her visually pleasing, culturally embracing and inspiring posts. Along with writing for her blog, she has written for sites like U.S. News, SUCCESS, Ruffled, and more!
Follow Kacey on Twitter and subscribe to her blog to keep up with her travels and inspiring posts!
When wedding planning you can often get caught up in expectations of what you should, or shouldn’t do and include. This can be an expensive cycle to get caught up in, and when it comes time for your registry it can mean you end up with a bunch of stuff that will only take up space while sitting untouched for years to come.
A good system is look at what you use everyday and find things you want to replace, things that would be helpful and essentials you might need for the future. With the rise of registry options and aggregate sites there’s more flexibility and choice as to what you can include, and also how much guests are willing to contribute towards.
Splurge Where It Counts
Don’t feel the need to add every little thing you think you want, take a look and see if instead you can upgrade something you truly need to a nicer model. Instead of having that set of crystal martini glasses you will never use, upgrade your vacuum from a mid-range to a quality model that will have more functions and probably last longer. Bakeware is a popular registry choice, but if you only use your oven for storage, pass over that section of tons of gadgets and upgrade from the 400 thread count to 1,000 count sheets you’ll actually enjoy.
Think Ahead - But not too far
If you know you’re about to move into a new home take into consideration what you’ll need to get settled in. Many couples make the move from apartments to homes soon after tying the knot, which means more space to enjoy, but also more rooms to furnish.
Don’t be afraid to add furniture, decor or anything you’ll need for the house and want to build your home around. Guests are happy to help you build your new life together and they’ll love seeing their contributions in your new home, not to mention be grateful for the comfy new mattress they helped purchase when they stay over in the guest room.
The one caveat to this is to not get ahead of yourself and register for things you won’t have space for or use within a few months. No one needs an entire patio set taking up space in their storage unit or family basement while you’re still house hunting with no guarantee you’ll actually have a patio.
Get Ambitious
Have you always wanted to do something as a couple? Looking to find a hobby you can enjoy together after the stress of the wedding is done? Add a fund to the registry for them!
If you’re outdoorsy and wanted to try kayaking, add some camping gear or a fund for a weekend away spent on a river. Maybe laying in the sand isn’t your style and you want to get scuba certified on the honeymoon, it’s all possible to add to your registry; add a link to your resort’s site where your guests can check out what they’re contributing to. Wanting to learn about wine and host dinner parties, why not add a wine club membership - just think of what works for you and add it! Variety of choice and price point is good for any registry.
Again, the point is not to fill your garage with extra stuff you think you might use one day, it’s to include things you have a plan for and a schedule that can accommodate them.
Valuable Extras
Sometimes you do actually need homewares, but dealing with wedding planning stress and packed schedules means you can’t find a moment to really sit down and envision what you want. Before you head out with your scanning gun, remember to select items that are versatile. Extra linens and towels that fit both your bedroom and the guest room, throw blankets that are cozy enough for the couch but warm enough for overnight visitors are all great choices. Also, plain white serving pieces can function as chic dinner party display additions and hold your basic Wednesday night take out.
Make your registry work for your future life together, be yourselves and have fun building your home without adding clutter!
by Kacey Bradley of the Drifter Collective
Planning the actual wedding ceremony generally pales beside the magnitude of preparing a memorable reception. After all, the ceremonial part remains set in stone depending on the religious faith or lack thereof of the intended. The reception is really where the happy couple can let their creativity take wing.
The place settings selected for the reception dinner enhance the overall theme of your wedding. They create quite the impression on your guests and bring the rest of your decor together. Here are five ideas to get your creative juices flowing and design a table layout like a pro.
1. For Lovers of Whimsy
If colorful butterflies or clever combinations of patterns matches you and your spouse-to-be's quirky sense of style, create a whimsical place setting. The sky's the limit for this type of setting, so let your imagination soar.
Consider writing handwritten place cards for a more down-to-earth appeal. Choose a color scheme that matches the bridesmaids' gowns and combine different shades and patterns of that color in your choice of plates, napkins and more. You can easily create personalized take-home party favors on the cheap using items found in many dollar stores.
2. For Lovers of Tradition
Those opting for the classic elegance of a traditional wedding place setting do well to embrace classic black and white tones with subtle accent colors. Formal styles demand quality dinner plates, artfully folded napkins, sparkling silverware and real rose centerpieces.
Design these settings around clean lines. Many reception venues are happy to do much of the place-setting planning for you if you select this option, though they certainly welcome your input. Consider classical accents such as ice sculptures to pull together the formal theme.
3. For the Outdoorsy Type
Are you planning an outdoor wedding and reception? You'll want to create your place settings with durability in mind. Fortunately, outdoor receptions may cost you far less than other venues due to the ease of decorating.
Lace picnic tables with chains of your favorite flowers and add garlands to decorate each pavilion. Consider creating mason jar chandeliers to subtly illuminate evening receptions. Wooden plates and simple burlap-looking napkins complete the rugged outdoor theme.
4. For the Theme Wedding Set
Dreaming of a wedding straight out of the pages of your favorite novels? Make your place settings match your theme with a bit of creativity.
Those considering Star Wars-inspired weddings can incorporate futuristic elements like light-saber shaped name cards, metal or jet-black dining plates, and droid salt-and-pepper shakers. Those planning fantasy-themed nuptials, such as those set in the Seven Kingdoms of George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" series, can create place settings that mimic those used at the Red Wedding — only without "The Rains of Castemere" and the ensuing nastiness.
5. For the Destination Wedding
Those planning destination weddings can craft place settings in tune with the location of the event. Some destinations will suggest schemes to use, but most still allow for creativity and adding your own personal touches.
Beachside weddings match perfectly with tropical decor, from coconut-shaped tumbler glasses to palm-tree-shaped swizzle sticks. Couples choosing to get married upon a cruise ship can create place settings based upon a nautical theme. Those saying "I do" in the mountains can go with a skiing-inspired look with Sherpa-esque elements.
Kacey Bradley is the blogger behind The Drifter Collective, an eclectic lifestyle blog that expresses various forms of style through the influence of culture and the world around us. Kacey graduated with a degree in Communications while working for a lifestyle magazine. She has been able to fully embrace herself with the knowledge of nature, the power of exploring other locations and cultures, all while portraying her love for the world around her through her visually pleasing, culturally embracing and inspiring posts. Along with writing for her blog, she has written for sites like U.S. News, SUCCESS, Ruffled, and more!
Follow Kacey on Twitter and subscribe to her blog to keep up with her travels and inspiring posts!
Tips To Stay Sane While Wedding Planning
Wedding planning can be a stressful experience, but it should be fun and memorable as well! Here are a few tips to keep in mind in the months of your planning to help keep you sane.
Set a budget
Before you begin planning, you have to set a realistic budget with your fiancé. This isn’t the most fun way to start the process, we know. However, it’s so important and will help make the rest of the process a breeze. First and foremost, figure out who’s contributing. It could be just you and your significant other, but maybe you’ll have the help of family too! Once you figure out just how much everyone involved is able to give, do the math and see if the budget is workable. Do this by researching vendors, estimating your guest count and deciding on what things are needs, not wants. If you still need additional help, consider applying for a personal loan for your wedding. Even if you don’t need the extra money, keeping a loan in a separate bank account makes it very easy to see where all of your spending is going. Then you can pay it off with the money you have as you go!
Hire a wedding planner
Photo by Brian and Jessica Photography
Having someone help you with tasks and planning will always be beneficial to stay stress-free. If your budget allows, hire a wedding planner or even a day-of coordinator. Wedding planners are there to ensure your day goes off without a hitch, so they’re the perfect people to have around if you’re trying to reduce any wedding-related stress. They will be able to get you in touch with preferred vendors, keep your planning on schedule and help you make any tough decisions. We highly recommend Danielle Pasternak. She's an expert on all the local vendors, she is lovely to work with and she stays on top of every little detail.
Delegate tasks
If a wedding planner is going to be a tight squeeze in your budget, then learn how to delegate tasks to others. There are so many effective ways to accomplish this! Firstly, think of any talented or craft people in your life. You may have a friend that’s an amazing home-baker or someone else who could easily tackle DIY bouquets. Think abouts friends, family and family of friends that may have awesome and useful talents!
Another way to tackle this is to simply ask for help from those around you. Your parents and soon to be in-laws will surely be eager to help, and will be especially helpful because they’ve been here before! You know your wedding party, siblings and other family members will want to help prep for the biggest day of your life too.
Practice self care
The most important thing to help reduce stress is self-care! Don’t let your routine fall off due to the pressure of planning. Make sure you’re still eating your best, exercising and making time for the things you love. This will help your day-to-day feel more like it usually does and not like you’re in the midst of the craziest few months of your life! If you want to strive to be very zen, then think about booking a couples massage for you and your fiancé a month or so before the wedding. Many couples wait until the honeymoon for this luxury, but by then the stress is lifted off of your shoulders, so it’s more beneficial before the wedding.
Take a digital detox
Once you have all of the details set in stone take a break from social media, especially Pinterest and Instagram. Scrolling through all of the wedding accounts you have followed for inspiration is great when planning! However, when you’ve made all of your decisions on florals, color scheme and design, comparison to other people and their weddings can be detrimental to your planning and stress levels. Taking a break from social media will give your mind a break it needs before the biggest day of your life!
We’re right in the thick of engagement season, and if you’re someone with a new ring on their finger, you’re probably stressing about the massive to-do list that began as soon as you said, “YES!” But worry not, we’ve thought about the smallest of details so you don’t have to. When all is said and done, and you’ve made it to your big day, it’s important to acknowledge the people who helped pull everything together. From picking out your save the dates, to zipping up your dress and putting cufflinks on your tux your people were there through it all. We’ve got some great gift ideas to make sure your entire wedding party knows that they’re appreciated.
Jewelry Made For Them
Nothing says thank you like a custom gift. We’re not just talking about a basic drink tumbler or robe, either! Jewelry from L2 Creations is handcrafted, repurposed and completely one of a kind! Giving a gift like this for your bridesmaids is not only thoughtful but long-lasting. Your girls can wear their custom jewelry on your big day, but also enjoy their unique accessory for years to come. This type of gift can forever serve as a reminder of your gratitude and serve as a testament to your friendship. Lauren can work with you to come up with a design that complements your style and brings out the personality of each of your lovely ladies. She can also make something up for the gents as well.
Creative Accessories for the Group
Accessories don’t always have to be interpreted as jewelry. While we love that gift as an idea (see above) we think also think that accessories for the wedding can have a more practical connotation. Want something your girls can use daily? Gift a pair of sunglasses on your wedding day! Not only can they make great group photo opportunities, but sunglasses are something that can be used daily. Figure out the style your girls like and get them something they’ll be happy to show off on a daily basis!
Want a similar idea for the guys? After all, groomsmen want to accessorize too! Consider gifting a watch that can be worn as a gift of your gratitude on the big day. It is a classy touch to pull their entire ensemble together. Traditionally, groomsmen all wear the same tux on the wedding day; so take into consideration that you can get a watch that suits their unique style. It allows for some personal flair to shine through on the big day, and compliments their everyday look after the day is over!
A Local Drink
We all know that a wedding is a day of celebration. Consider gifting your guys and girls a bottle of their favorite locally distilled alcohol! Country Seat Spirits allows you to buy online which makes for a really convenient gift giving experience. You can toast to the day or save the drink to unwind after the festivities have concluded!
Maybe you’re interested in a similar gift that keeps on giving. The Colony Meadery also provides the option of the Drinking Horn Mug Club. Sign your wedding party up for a year’s worth of perks and discounted mead! As a member, your people will be guaranteed a free mug every time a new mead comes on draft and other money saving perks! Consider getting yourself a membership as well, it can be used as a great way to get the entire wedding party back together!
Nina Lilly Photography
Think Outside the Box
If you really want to have fun with gift giving, consider gifting something one of a kind. The Steel Beam specializes in providing pieces that are created with fine detail. This boutique is great for finding gifts for both men and women. That means it is a one-stop shop for finding gifts for your entire wedding party! From clothing styles ranging from casual to chic, jewelry, accessories, and even home furnishings.
