The Road To 'I Do' Doesn't Have To Be A Bumpy One

If you are in the process of planning your big day then you may be feeling the pressure to get everything right. There is no right or wrong way to plan a wedding, it is your day and you shouldn’t be made to feel guilty or bad about anything. There are so many steps when it comes to executing your wedding, making a list and checking things off might be the most helpful thing to do. Check out some of the most important parts below.

The date

One of the most important parts of any wedding is setting the date. This is something a lot of couples love to do. Some people pick a date during their favourite season or a special date that relates to them. This could be the date they met or the date they got engaged. This makes it easy to remember when it comes to the anniversaries. Wherever you decide to get married, you will need to check your ideal date with them. You might find that popular venues will get booked up pretty quickly and have a waiting list. 

The venue

Something else you need to do is find and contact the venue you want to get married in. This could be anywhere from a church to a beach in the middle of nowhere. The world is your oyster when it comes to your venue, you just have to make sure they have a wedding license to be able to hold your big day. Speak to your partner and decide which wedding venue you would like to contact. You must give them a ring or send them an email as ideally, you should visit your venue before signing on the dotted line. It might look amazing online but not the same in person. 

The guest list

Another thing to consider, and this might be the hardest step of all is the guest list. A lot of family members and friends might not get along so it could become quite tense if seated at the wrong table. You need to work out who to invite and where everyone will sit once the big day arrives. 

Get the invites out

Once you have figured out all of the important parts of your wedding then it’s time to get the invites out. You can’t do this before you have sorted the date, time, and venue as your guests will miss vital information. When it comes to your invites, you can make them yourself or you can buy them in bulk online. Find the option that suits you better, of course, you don’t want to add any more stress to your day by making them yourself. If you are creative and confident you can do it, then pen a rough draft before you start making them properly - Don’t forget that your invites will need an RSVP number or other contact details. Otherwise, you won’t know who is coming and who can’t make it. This will have a knock on effect on seating plans and catering.

Image credit: Drew Coffman

Discussing the trend of personalised ceremonies

Couples nowadays often tailor their ceremonies to reflect their personalities. They may include rituals, readings, or vows that hold special significance to them. Mention the beauty of infusing personal touches into the ceremony to make it more memorable.

Budgeting and Financial Planning

Elaborate on the importance of setting a realistic budget and sticking to it. Discuss tips on how couples can manage their finances effectively when planning a wedding. Incorporating cost-saving strategies like DIY decorations, choosing off-peak wedding dates, or considering alternative reception venues can be helpful for readers on a budget.

The Role of Wedding Planners 

Explore the option of hiring a wedding planner. Discuss the advantages of having a professional guide you through the process, including their expertise in vendor negotiations, managing timelines, and alleviating stress. Link to reputable wedding planners or resources that provide guidance on finding the right planner for different budgets and preferences.

Cultural and Religious Considerations \Highlight the significance of cultural or religious customs in weddings. Discuss how couples may incorporate these traditions into their wedding planning process, respecting and honoring their heritage or religious beliefs. Include resources or examples of how to blend different customs seamlessly.

Environmental-Friendly Wedding Options

Include a section on eco-friendly wedding choices. Discuss how couples can make environmentally conscious decisions, such as opting for sustainable decor, locally sourced food, or choosing vendors who prioritize eco-friendly practices. Provide links to companies specializing in eco-conscious weddings.

Post-Wedding Plans 

Expand the discussion beyond the wedding day. Address the importance of planning for life after the wedding, such as setting shared goals, discussing finances, or planning a honeymoon. Guide readers on the importance of nurturing their relationship beyond the wedding day

Technology in Wedding

Explore the use of technology in modern weddings, like live streaming the ceremony for distant guests, creating personalized wedding websites, or using apps for guest RSVPs and seating arrangements. Discuss how technology can streamline the planning process and enhance the overall experience for both the couple and guests.

Self-Care and Stress Management

During the planning process, its important to manage stress and taking breaks to avoid burnout. Suggestions: Relaxation techniques, like mindfulness exercises, yoga, or spa days, to help couples stay calm and focused throughout the planning journey.

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The Ultimate Wedding-Planning Checklist

Your wedding is one of the most important days of your life, and you want to make sure that everything goes perfectly. This means planning every detail down to the last minute. But where do you start? The best place to begin is with a wedding-planning checklist. This blog post will provide you with a comprehensive list of everything you need to do in order to plan the perfect wedding.

1: Decide on a budget: 

This is probably the most important step in wedding planning. You need to decide how much you are willing to spend on your wedding before you start making any decisions. This will help you stay within your budget and avoid overspending.

2: Choose a date: 

Once you have decided on a budget, you can start looking at dates. You need to choose a date that is convenient for you and your guests. Keep in mind that the date of your wedding may affect the cost of your wedding.

3: Venue: 

The next step is to choose a venue for your wedding. You need to decide if you want a church ceremony or a civil ceremony. You also need to book the venue in advance.

Now that you have an idea of what needs to be done, you can start planning your dream wedding! Just remember to take your time and enjoy the process. After all, this is one of the most important days of your life! Thanks for reading! I hope this blog post was helpful. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below. Happy planning!

4: Dresses:

Another important decision is what you and your bridal party will wear. You need to decide on a style and colour scheme for your wedding. Once you have done this, you can start shopping for dresses. Find flower girl dresses for sale online!

5: Invitations:

Once you have chosen a date, venue and dresses, you can start sending out invitations. You will need to provide your guests with all the important information about your wedding. This includes the date, time, venue and dress code.

6: Wedding dress fittings:

You will need to have several fittings for your wedding dress. This is so that the dress can be made to fit you perfectly. You should also buy your accessories at this time, such as your veil, shoes and jewellery.

7: Photography:

One of the most important aspects of your wedding is photography. You need to choose a photographer that you trust to capture all the special moments on your big day. Make sure to discuss your ideas with them in advance and agree on a package.

Photos by Lanty

8: Food and drink:

Another important aspect of your wedding is the food and drink. You need to choose a caterer that you trust to provide delicious food for your guests. You also need to decide on a menu and agree on a budget.

Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, but it is important to remember that it is one of the most important days of your life. By following this checklist, you can be sure that you have covered all the bases and are well on your way to planning the perfect wedding.

9: Entertainment:

Entertainment at a wedding is a big influence on how much your wedding guests enjoy the day itself. From magicians breaking the ice during canapes to a wedding DJ that’ll have them dancing the night away.

Every entertainment element you add to your wedding is important, so make sure you’re thinking carefully about who you have for the big day.

10: Venue Styling:

Make sure no space is overlooked with our FREE Wedding Decor Checklist. Print and use as a guide when planning and choosing your venue dressing!

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Download Your Free Wedding Decoration Checklist

Make sure no space is overlooked with our FREE Wedding Decor Checklist, screenshot or click the image below to download your free venue styling list. Print and use as a guide when planning and choosing your venue dressing!

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Bride Essentials To Pack For Your Big Day

Bride Essentials To Pack For Your Big Day

There are so many things that could be overlooked or missed on a day as big and important as your wedding day, no matter how obvious they may seem. 

Have you heard of the traditional something new, something old, something borrowed, and something blue? Have you considered preparing an emergency kit? Well, we have curated a list of things that you cannot forget, which are necessary and essential, for every prepared bride on her wedding day. 

Something New, Something Old, Something Borrowed

We’ve all heard of the bridal trousseau, which is a collection of items from the clothing and jewellery you wear on your wedding day to more traditional pieces like a garter or something blue.

Your something new can be anything from your dress, jewellery, shoes, or anything you’ll be wearing that was specifically bought for the occasion. This means that you will have prosperity and happiness in your marriage.

For something old, you can wear a family jewel or relic. It symbolizes that family and friendship ties will never be broken and will lead with your partner.

Something blue represents the purity of marriage, and you can choose to wear it on a small ribbon, bridal bouquet, a hair accessory, or earrings.

As for something borrowed, it refers to something another bride has already worn. Someone in a happy marriage lends you something, and yours will be equally delighted. It is a symbol of friendship from the person who lends it to you, and it can be a jewel, a garter belt, or a handkerchief.

Emergency Kit

Things happen; there’s dancing, spilled drinks, sweating, etc. Lots of things to consider and lots to prevent, so you must always consider carrying a bridal emergency kit that consists of :

• barrettes

• bobby pins or hair clips,

• disposable tissues, 

• sewing kit, 

• mint sheets,

• hairspray, 

• lint roller, 

• double-stick fashion tape, 

• stain remover pen, 

• perfume, 

• blotting papers, 

• pain reliever, 

• pads or tampons, 

• eye drops, 

• toothbrush and toothpaste, 

• deodorant, 

• allergy medication, 

• antacid medication, 

• extra earring backs,

•  brush or comb, 

• phone charger, 

• cords and an emergency camera, 

• snacks and protein bars, water, etc. 

The list could seriously go on; it is important to keep anything that may come in handy and have the mother or bridesmaid keep it around when needed. 

Makeup To Retouch

With all the hustle and bustle of the day, the dancing, sweating, happy tears, pictures, kissing, and hours going by, you will probably need a little touch-up on your makeup. This can be part of your emergency makeup kit: translucent powder, lash glue and extra eyelashes, blush, eyeliner, makeup remover to clean up any mess, tweezers, lipstick and lip liner, lip balm and makeup setting spray, and refreshing spray (very important!) Better safe than sorry!

Flats or Comfortable Shoes

We know how exciting getting a beautiful pair of cream pumps is on your big day; indeed, a girl will always love shoes! But the reality is wedding days are usually long and packed, and by midnight you will want to throw them and never see them again! So don't forget to buy some nice flats, sandals or tennis shoes for this occasion. Make sure they are comfortable and preferably broken into already. Wedding dresses are long, and by midnight no one will even notice you’re not wearing your heels anymore. 

Keep Three Bouquets At Hand

One bouquet is never enough; we recommend that you use three: the first in case you want to keep it as a souvenir, the second will depend on whether you want to offer it at the ceremony, and the last will be the one that you throw to all your single guests. This can also come in handy if anything happens to your bouquet, mostly if it’s made out of natural fresh flowers. You’ll always want a fresh-looking flowers in your picture. 

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The Ultimate Honeymoon Packing List

The Ultimate Honeymoon Packing List

A wedding is always a dream that comes true for most people. Have you just had your dream wedding? Congratulations on that big step! Have you secured a honeymoon destination? If yes, are you wondering what you should pack? Well, do not fret. We got you covered. Whether you're heading to a luxury resort in the Caribbean for a week or spending a weekend doing it up stay-cation style, going on a honeymoon together is the perfect way to destress after all of that wedding planning. Here we give you a definitive list of things you might need on your honeymoon. Just get yourself good traveling bags. Packing will not be hard anymore; it will only be a picnic with our checklist.

Carry-On Luggage

This luggage holds items you will need to access from time to time during your trip or flight. These items are on hand for an emergency. The items include:

●      Paper photocopy of all travel documents.

●      Airline boarding passes.

●      Any other travel tickets you need.

●      All valuable jewellery items.

●      Basic toiletries (face wash, toothbrush/toothpaste, and deodorant).

●      Books, magazines, or an E-reader.

●      A Camera.

●      Contraception.

●      Credit and Debit cards (please inform your banker of travel plans to avoid Credit card rejection).

●      Deck of cards.

●      Driver's licenses.

●      Earplugs.

●      Eye mask.

●      Headphones.

●      Health insurance or medical documents.

●      Hotel, restaurant, or activity booking confirmations.

●      First Aid kit (with plasters and painkillers).

●      Money and local currency.

●      Neck pillow.

●      One set of clothing, including underwear (optional but useful for delayed flights).

●      Passport.

●      Phone charger (and a travel adapter, especially when going abroad).

●      Reading glasses, lenses, and lens casing.

●      Travel Insurance.

●      Travel Visa (if needed).

●      Vaccination booklet.

Toiletries

When traveling, there is nothing more important than the personal effects. Here load everything necessary for the journey. These items help keep your hygiene and help your grooming. 

●      Anti-itch ointment.

●      Antacids Antihistamine.

●      Asthma inhaler (for asthmatics).

●      Band-Aids.

●      Bug spray.

●      Conditioner.

●      Cotton swabs.

●      Deodorant.

●      Diarrhoea medicine.

●      Hair ties.

●      Lotion for body and face.

●      Makeup remover.

●      Motion sickness medication.

●      Nail file.

●      Pain reliever.

●      Razors.

●      Shampoo.

●      Shaving cream.

●      Skincare products.

●      Soap or body wash.

●      Sunscream.

●      Toothbrush.

●      Toothpaste.

●      Tweezers.

Outfits for Her

When going for a honeymoon, it is advisable to choose outfits based on the weather. Most honeymoon destinations are tropical. Light clothing is more preferred for the tropical climate. It is also a time to impress your new lifetime partner with your choice of clothing. Appropriateness of clothing is essential. Make sure you are comfortable to boost your self-confidence.

●      One cardigan/sweater.

●      One dressy purse or clutch.

●      One light jacket.

●      One little black dress.

●      A pair of evening shoes or lovely sandals.

●      A pair of jeans.

●      A pair of leggings.

●      A pair of sneakers.

●      A couple of walking shoes or sandals.

●      Swimsuit cover-up.

●      Two hats (sun and ball).

●      Two pairs of shorts.

●      Two swimsuits.

●      2-3 pairs of everyday socks.

●      Four casual shirts (tees or tanks).

●      Eight teams of underwear Accessories (scarves, earrings, or necklaces).

●      Bras (strapless, sports, and otherwise).

●      Extra socks and underwear

●      Pajamas/nightdress.

●      Special lingerie.

●      Sunglasses.

Outfits for Him

Just like the female outfits, the male attire should take regard for the weather. The destination you are visiting demands different clothing. For instance, if you are likely to go on a safari or the beach, your packing needs would be different.

●      A hat (sun and ball).

●      One light jacket.

●      A pair of trousers.

●      A pair of dress shoes.

●      A couple of dress socks.

●      A pair of khakis.

●      A pair of jeans.

●      A pair of sneakers.

●      A couple of comfortable walking shoes or sandals or flip-flops.

●      One sports jacket for excellent restaurants.

●      One swimsuit.

●      1 Tie.

●      1 or 2 polos or button-down short-sleeve shirts.

●      Two pairs of shorts.

●      4 T-shirts.

●      Eight pairs of underwear.

●      Basic tee in a neutral color.

●      Extra socks and underwear.

●      Pajamas/sleepwear.

●      Semi-formal shirt.

●      Sunglasses.

Conclusion

A new life in marriage begins with a honeymoon. This might happen once in a lifetime. The event deserves a useful packing checklist. Use this list to stay ahead of the unforeseen challenges. Our list has you sorted in all aspects of your trip. You should also keep an assortment of other hand items just in case you run into anything. Arrange them depending on the ease of access. You can label the bags. With the comprehensive list, we have given you, and everything will fall into place. As a tip, if you are going to an exotic destination, try to learn a few foreign language phrases. That might help you in case you get lost.

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