Second to the dress, your ceremony backdrop will set the vibes of your wedding and has the ability to make or break your theme. This will also be what surrounds you and your new spouse in the “first kiss” photo we all dream of hanging on our walls forever. Many people end up taking this on as a DIY project, so don’t procrastinate starting this part of the decor! Today we have put together some inspo for you based on your venue choice. 

Outdoors/Scenic Views

If you are getting married in a forest or a lush mountaintop, you will be saving a lot of money on flowers and decor! We recommend framing the focus point with a simple arch or geometric shape made of either steel or wood that you will be standing in front of in that first kiss picture.

Statement building

If you chose your venue based off of the architecture, use your favorite part as the ceremony backdrop! This could be the fire place, the staircase, or even the front door. Whatever drew you to that location in the first place should be the most photographed and shared. 

Open concept space

If you have nothing but a blank slate to work with, you get to be as creative as possible. Start from the ground up with candles, pillars, flowers, greenery, anything to create a statement. It might feel overwhelming trying to fill the space, but keep in mind that all of the pieces can be moved around to decorate for the reception during the room switch (this is also the part where it’s super helpful to have a wedding planner or designer).

Country Club

If you are getting married anywhere that other people could potentially be walking around your ceremony location, we recommend creating some sort of screen as your backdrop. This could be as crazy as an old door with chipped paint, or as classic as draped fabric surrounded by flowers.  This type of solidity really defines the space

The most important thing to remember is that your ceremony backdrop will be the center of many of your wedding photos, as it’s not only a big piece of your special day, but also the first impression of your decor style to guests and will define the theme of your wedding more than anything else. It is also good to remember that any decor you use for the ceremony can be repurposed for the reception. You don’t want all of that creativity to go to waste! We’re all about repurposing here.

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

So much time is spent in the last few days leading up to the wedding trying to decide who will be at what table. Opinions will be coming from everywhere, and the final atmosphere of your wedding will all be dependent on making sure the right group of people are sat together for dinner.

You don’t want to put all of that hard work to waste if no one can figure out where they are supposed to be! Having an escort card wall/table will make it fun and functional for your guests to find their seats so we put together 10 ideas to make sure the escort wall is one to remember:

1. A drinks wall

Champagne, mini margs, either in a salted shot glass or mini patron bottle with straw, any other drink that goes with the theme: this is a fun way to get the party started and set the tone of the reception. 

2. Moscow mule mugs

They can fill them up at the bar or take them home to make their own cocktails!

3. Mini records

Show your mutual love of music by putting your guests’ names on a record with their table number. Chances are that most of the selfies will be taken with this wall as their background!

4. Paper flowers

Use these to really anchor your color scheme and create a statement piece in the wedding. 

5. Plants/flowers in mini vases

If flowers are important to you, this is the perfect way to share that love with each of your guests. Get their names calligraphed on the vases!

6. Boarding passes

All aboard the love story that is the reason everyone has gathered. This would be especially great for a destination wedding or one with a travel theme.

7. Fortune cookies

Your fortune will obviously be bright on your wedding day, so share that positivity with your guests (and give them a little snack at the same time!)

8. Food table/wall

Donuts, cupcakes, cheese, lemons, etc: anything edible is always a hit in group events. It will also keep everyone occupied while you and your newly beloved take any last minute photos. 

9. Mini charcuterie boards/boxes/cones

To be saved for midnight snacks back at the hotel after a long night of dancing at the reception!

10. Bookmarks

A little token of your passion for reading can both help your guests to find their seats as well as hold their spot in the next book that desperately don’t want to put down. 

Keep in mind that many of these options can double as wedding favors! We love a multi purpose wedding element. Use the escort card wall as a statement piece in your wedding decor.

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

Planning a wedding requires a collaboration of creative minds, willing hands, and endless amounts of love. The friends and family that come together to turn your special day into a dream come true work tirelessly for you, and sometimes it can be hard to show them how much that means to you. Today we wanted to share some inspiration to help you show the love that you feel on your wedding day. 

The Bridesmaids

The team you choose to have next to you when you say “I do” will go through a lot with you during your planning process. They will plan many parties, listen to you complain about your future mother in law, and buy a dress that they will most likely never wear again. Traditionally the bride will buy her girls the jewelry, and/or hair and makeup services for the day of. If you’d like to do more, a customized jewelry case or travel bag would be a great edition that would be used again and again. 

The Groomsmen

Although the guys are typically less involved in the details of wedding planning, they are still a very special part of the day. Just like the girls typically get their day of jewelry, getting the groomsmen quirky matching socks can make for some incredible pictures. You can also make lasting memories with custom flasks that they will most likely start and end the party with!

Family

Who can forget your parents?? They not only raised you to be the person who the love of your life fell in love with, but they most likely put the most heart (and probably paycheck) into your wedding planning. What they would appreciate the most is something sentimental. A SamiaLynn custom illustration is the perfect gift to keep the memory of such a special day alive forever!

This would also be a great idea for other special people like your grandparents, aunts/uncles, or anyone else that contributed to your big day. 

The Flower Girl and/or Ring Bearer

The cutest little balls of chaos that will walk down your aisle… (unless your dogs will be joining you that day!). Your wedding day will be a day that they most likely will not remember, but will be reminded of  time and time again, including when you attend their weddings years down the time. One of the best things you can gift these kiddos is reception entertainment like a coloring book and special snacks. And then later you can gift them embarrassing pictures of them running around in their underwear when the fancy clothes get too itchy!

So many times in wedding planning it can be easy to get caught up in paying vendors and deciding on your wedding registry. You don’t want to forget to choose personalized gifts for the people who love you enough to make your day absolutely perfect.

Have you already found the perfect gifts? We’d love to know in the comments!

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

One of the core traditions in a wedding is handing out favors at the end of the night. If that sentence alone doesn’t trigger a memory of pastel Jordan Almonds, have you even been to a wedding??

There are beautiful meanings behind this traditional treat, but it does now feel slightly over done and old fashioned. Today we want to share some updated and modern favor options that your wedding guests would actually be excited to bring home with them. 

Polaroid photos

Set up a photo area with Polaroid cameras and let your guests go wild. They will love being able to go home with something to keep the memories alive with their fellow guests

Assorted candies

Set up a mini candy shop at your reception and let’s your guests fill up their own bags to bring home. No matter how old the guest, everyone will be reliving their childhood dreams all over again 

Shop local

Support a small business by buying and sharing their product as your wedding favors. This could be local honey,  pastries, soap, books, olive oil, the list goes on. For holidays it can be ornaments or hot chocolate mix

Go green

A popular choice nowadays is mini plants (or seeds)! Whether you choose succulents, air plants, or cacti, most guests (who aren’t plant killers like me) would love to add more green to their collection

For the winter couples

Send your guests home with a cosy blanket! Doubles as a useful wedding accessory if your ceremony is outside during the colder months. Personalize the wrapping with a custom ribbon or artsy paper

Let’s be honest here. The fastest way into anyone’s heart is through their stomach. Your guests will probably be happier leaving with a midnight snack than they would ever be with a koozie that has your wedding date printed on it

Most importantly, if you choose to do wedding favors, just make sure that they represent who you are as a couple!

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

Being in the wedding industry has opened our eyes to the availability (or lack thereof) of LGBTQ+ friendly merchandise for all weddings. Sometimes finding variety outside of the Mr. & Mrs. selections can be hard if you’re not looking to custom order every part of your planning experience. Today we wanted to share with you a few of our favorite businesses that show their pride all year long with fun finishing touches for all wedding events. 

Psst…If you are looking for resources for inclusive wedding planning, lgbtweddings.com is a great place to start!

lgbtq+ shops:

The Peculiar Pelican

She creates custom wooden sign for your wedding day. The shop is filled with every possible wording your Pinterest has you dreaming about for your ceremony and reception. Some you might even want to take home as decor to remember your wedding day with!

Click here to visit

The Ritzy Rose

This team has the most colorful department for all LGBTQ+ including everything from coming out cards to wine bottle labels! Their signage is also timelessly beautiful. We’d recommend starting here for your engagement announcement and then ending with your flower girl/ ring bearer signs to walk down the aisle with. 

Click here to visit

Wild Nova

They have every version of ENgayGED attire you could ever dream of! From the moment you get engaged, they have a shirt for every occasion as well as always being prepared for pride. They even have Ally and “the future is fluid” shirts for anyone else who wants to join the movement.  Bonus: they’re environmentally friendly!

Click here to visit

Taylor Street Favors

Derek and David create the most beautiful cake toppers (and that is saying something because WOW cake toppers can be tacky) and even mini Mrs. & Mrs. cup cake toppers! It is also a great place to look for gifts for all couples. 

Click here to visit

Lifetime creations

This family run business follows through with their name by engraving glass that you will use for the rest of your life. Get you and your fiance Mr(s) and Mr(s) (or any verbiage of your choosing) champagne glasses to toast with on your wedding night and then again on every anniversary. 

Click here to visit

PS: If you live in the DMV area, Abiddoodle Productions has curated an amazing list of LGBTQ+ friendly wedding resources because you shouldn’t have to be the person that shifts the “norm” when it comes to planning your wedding

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

I’m probably one of the few people who look forward to destination weddings. I love to travel and usually just see it as an opportunity to go somewhere new and appreciate that I have friends who think the same way.

For the couple though, planning a wedding IN town can already be overwhelming so many don’t even want to consider elsewhere. Well, friends, it doesn’t have to be that way as long as you’re organized. First of all, you should be hiring a planner (we talked about that in a previous post) but I’ve also recruited destination planner Gabby Pinkerton from ‘Cause We Can Events to give ya’ll a few things to consider when you’re starting to plan your destination wedding:

1. Marriage licenses

Getting a marriage license in another country can be really hard! I always recommend having a legal ceremony back home and doing a fun ceremony abroad. If you don't want to tell your friends and family that it's not actually the "real ceremony" have your officiant bring their own made up marriage certificate. No one needs to know!

2. Plan for wrinkled clothing

I like to bring a portable steamer to help steam the wrinkles out of your dress, tux, jumpsuit, you name it!

3. Tipping protocol

Not every country tips (and some even consider it an insult)! Read up on local and cultural best practices when it comes to tipping your vendors. This also applies in the general sense that your country of choice should match your personal preferences

4. Sim cards and cell phone plans

Your current cell phone plan may not work abroad. Be sure to call your provider before leaving to choose a plan that works best for you for contacting your vendors and keeping guests in the loop. I also like to download WhatsApp so that I can "text" vendors over wifi instead of through my phone provider. It's free!

Gabby and her team are based in Nashville and are a full service wedding planning company. But they’re more than that, they’re here to make your adventurous wedding dreams come true. They keep it personal and unique to you and your S.O. (there’s a reason I like them so much!) so check them out at www.causewecanevents.com and view all the gorgeous photos on Instagram @causewecanevents.

Happy Planning!

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

As someone who has worked in both fashion and bridal, it’s hard to truly “wow” me when I see engagement rings. Diamonds sure do lose their sparkle when you’ve seen what starts to feel like the same ring over and over again. (If I’ve ever complimented your ring, know that I REALLY do love it!)

Yes, you should feel bad for my significant other when it comes time for him to propose. 

That being said, to each her own! Everyone has their own personal style and there are engagement rings out there for everyone. Some may just be more easily googled than others! 

In this age of bucking traditions when it comes to wedding planning, I think you could also consider choosing a unique engagement ring. Now don’t try to tell me that your fiancé is picking out the ring and will be surprising you, we know that you are fully in control of that shared Pinterest board titled “💍”.  

When choosing a ring you really want, think about your personal style. Not the trends that you are following right now, but who you are down to the basics of your wardrobe. Are you preppy, edgy, classic, modern? If you don’t know, my suggestion is to see who you take style inspo from on Instagram and see what they hashtag. The key words should be right under your nose. Those are great descriptive words to use to start your search. 

For example, many people like a timeless look, but in a way that you literally can’t tell which decade your clothes are from. Personally, my wardrobe is half staple pieces from places like Target or online stores, and half vintage and pieces I bought abroad. If thrifting and sustainability are important to you, then a vintage ring is the PERFECT option.

This idea is not for everyone which is great because that keeps the cost of second hand rings down for me! If you are looking for a way to stay eco friendly when picking out your ring, moissanite is actually a great option. I know, I know, you are “supposed” to wear a diamond because they are a girl’s best friend! But we will negate that soon. Moissanite is being talked about a lot recently because it is a lot cheaper than diamonds (which means you get more sparkle for your buck) and they are lab grown, not mined in the same inhuman way that diamonds are. Think of it as saving the world one carat at a time!

That being said, who said you needed a clear stone?? If your personality is bright and colorful, why can’t your engagement ring represent that? This is a ring that you will be wearing consistently for years to come, make sure it fits in with your aesthetic. Ruby, emerald, sapphire, or any other precious stone would make for a beautiful forever ring.

If you need colored stone inspiration, check out your birthstone!  As a June baby I would definitely not mind incorporating pearls into my ring

Whatever you choose, whether it’s a simple stone on a simple band, a collection of stones placed to look like your favorite flower, or anything in between, it should be something you will be proud to show off now and at your 50th wedding anniversary. 

What does your dream ring look like??

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

When it comes to wedding entertainment the first thing that comes to mind is usually the decision between a DJ or a band, but what else could you include in your wedding that would keep guests guessing about what else you might have up your sleeve on your big day? Right now one of the biggest trends in weddings is the idea of going against tradition. If you have some extra room in your budget (maybe because you decided to have a fabulous micro wedding rather than a 200 person event), you should consider throwing something a little different into your reception to spicy things up. We promise not to tell anyone if you take an idea or two from us and make it your own 😉

1. Dance instructor

If you know that your group is always down for a spin on the dance floor, why not surprise everyone with a professional dance instructor to clean up their moves just a bit? This could be salsa dancing, maybe a traditional dance to promote your culture, or go crazy with a hip hop lesson. Everyone could learn something new and have fun while doing it!

2. Professional artist

Pick your medium of choice and then hire a professional for a few hours to come and live sketch, paint, or draw your reception or guests. You would leave with a lasting memory of the evening that is separate from the photographer and/or videographer and each of your guests could have a personal memory of themselves.

Interested in live illustration?  Check out my services here!

3. Mini Golf

This isn’t your sibling’s corn hole set (still a favorite yard game). Step it up a notch and take over any open green space with strategically placed mini golf courses! Multiple holes also means a few groups of people can play at once and clean up is simple. Golf competition anyone?

4. Bouncy House

This option certainly isn’t for everyone, but for those of us that are still a kid at heart (or need a break from dancing), having a beautiful white bouncy house is so much fun! Bonus: it’s great for any actual children that might be at your reception.

5. Snacks!

Ok this might not seem like your typical entertainment source, but can you tell me the last time someone brought out snacks and everyone in the room didn’t get excited?! One of our favorite ways to end a long night of dancing is with a late night snack, so why not just incorporate that into the timeline? About an hour before the DJ plays his final song, have munchies passed around. This could be French fries, milk and cookies, popcorn, or literally anything that you would want when you left after a long (but fun) night. 

Now, we aren’t trying to plan your wedding for you, but we are saying that any or all of these ideas could be mixed and matched to create the perfect wedding reception! And if you decide to include them just know that we would like to be included in the guest count because it sounds like you sure know how to have a fun time! 

Are you planning any fun surprises for your guests that we haven’t thought of yet??

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

Just about a year ago we wrote our first blog post about micro weddings. Before that we had never put the two ideas together besides just for elopements. Now that traditional weddings are a possibility in the near future, many brides are still opting for a micro size because they realize it fits their needs more than a large wedding. If you’re on the fence about which direction to go, we wanted to share some of the perks of doing a micro wedding that can’t happen for a traditional wedding (hint: it revolves around quality)

1. You can actually spend time with all of your guests

If you have 250 people at your wedding you will either spend the entire reception saying hi to every person for one minute at a time, or you will eat, drink, and party, and not see anyone at all 

2. Better food!

If you’re only feeding 20 people instead of 200 it’s easier and more cost effective to get a better quality meal for you and your guests. Plus you have more of an opportunity to get the exact menu you want

3. Go family style

If you only have a handful of people you can have one long family style table rather than many smaller tables. This will mean one set of (quality) decorations where you can go all out rather than distributing decor throughout a huge venue

4. The venue can be all you

You are no longer stuck with a hotel ball room or reception hall with bad carpet and white walls. With a smaller guest count you can take them to your favorite restaurant or rooftop, museum, or cute garden in your neighborhood. Let your personality shine through from the moment your guests step foot into your ceremony and reception 

5. Create an experience, not just an oversized dinner and ceremony service

If you are working around less people, you can make your wedding into a full weekend experience if you want to (hello destination locations!). Cancel any of the old school traditions that don’t feel like you and your partner, and create the wedding that represents your future marriage to its fullest.  This could be through elaborate table cards or escort walls, personalized gifts, or entertainment!

All any of this really means is that you can control any part of your wedding to be exactly what you want, not just what is expected of you. Also, think of all of the money you would save overall with a micro wedding!! That is a huge perk, but we wanted to focus on the more fun side of wedding planning. If you are doing a micro wedding, what was the most exciting part of planning it? Let us know in the comments!

Lauren Allen, Author

Lauren is a bridal consultant and self-published author, with a background in celebrity styling and bridal make up artistry. You can find her with an oat milk cappuccino in the morning, and a glass of Cabernet at night, her real passions. Get enough wine in her and she will tell you about her perfectly planned wedding. Just promise not to ask about the groom, that’s one detail she’s still working on. Lauren is based in Kansas CIty and her book “How to Be 23” can be found here

As we talked about the topic of bridal showers, we both agreed that we no longer care for any of the traditional events. That means today we are sharing with you the bridal showers we’d want to attend! The number one rule of all of these events is that there will not be toilet paper wrapped around the bride for any reason. 

1. Dinner at your favorite restaurant

   Why make your future mother-in-law stress about making sure her living room is fixed up, and that there are enough snacks for the whole crowd when you could host the girls in the comfort of your favorite restaurant?! If it’s a smaller restaurant you can probably even rent out the whole place for the afternoon. This will make for a much more laid back atmosphere and will allow the host to enjoy the day as much as the guests. 

2. Signature cocktail tasting for the wedding

   Have your whole crew come over for a day of cocktail tasting! This could be how you choose the perfect combo for your signature cocktails at your wedding. You could even serve some of the appetizers that will be presented at your cocktail hour as a glimpse of what’s to come! 

3. Crafting day

   If your group is crafty, break out the Cricut and put them to work! You could have a fun day while also being productive, and anyone participating will feel proud to see their hard work on display at your wedding. Think welcome signs, signature cocktail signs, seating chart... the options are endless. 

4. “Build your bar cart” party 

   This idea was stolen from TikTok and we’ve been waiting for an excuse to use it! If you are a younger couple (but still over 21) that is still establishing your home together, you can throw a build-your-bar-cart party! Everyone attending will bring something like a shaker, mixers, or just liquor bottles and get you ready for any future hosting you do. Feel free to also dig into the goods and have your friends and family show you their favorite cocktails so you feel fancy when trying to impress your next guests. 

5. Backyard BBQ

   Why make things complicated when you can relax and enjoy the day? A BBQ would be a great way to get the men and kids involved too. Have a few people in charge of manning the grill for the day, put some side dishes and drinks on a table and enjoy the day playing cornhole and horseshoe while chatting about wedding plans and honeymoon excursions. 

Keep in mind, this is your wedding and your pre-wedding event. Make sure that whatever you are planning feels most like you. Rules and traditions are meant to be broken! Any of these events could even make for fun Spring and Summer activities, engaged or not.

Lauren Allen, Author

Lauren is a bridal consultant and self-published author, with a background in celebrity styling and bridal make up artistry. You can find her with an oat milk cappuccino in the morning, and a glass of Cabernet at night, her real passions. Get enough wine in her and she will tell you about her perfectly planned wedding. Just promise not to ask about the groom, that’s one detail she’s still working on. Lauren is based in NYC and her book “How to Be 23” can be found here

After the big proposal comes the bridesmaids’ proposals.

Don’t know what a bridesmaid proposal is? It’s kind of like a “prom-posal” but for your bridesmaids. You put together a collection of gifts and notes, and then send it to your closest friends to ask them to be your bridesmaid (or maid of honor) when you tie the knot. Sometimes it includes jewelry with symbolic knots like necklaces or earrings, or coozies that have your wedding date on it, but we want to give you inspiration for gifts that your girls (or guys) will actually use!

Wedding day jewelry

Give your bride squad any jewelry you want them to accessorize with on your big day. Chances are they will wear it again, or at least have peace of mind knowing what they will wear to your wedding.

Custom sketches

Customize an illustration of you and your bridesmaid so that she can frame it as a forever reminder of your wedding day. Click here for custom sketches of you and your bride squad!

Custom wine glasses

Instead of getting anything with the word “bridesmaid” written on it, put her name and she will most likely use it every day and think of you, rather than sharing  the word “bridesmaid” around anything you gift.  This idea can apply to any “object”, we offer mugs, make up bags, and phone cases that you can custom design!

A shawl

This might sound cheesy, but if you give your bridesmaids something to keep her warm in her bridesmaid’s dress, she will use it for ALL future weddings and think of you! Something so simple could bring her years of fond memories.

Hair and makeup!

We know this isn’t really an “item” that can go in a bridesmaid proposal box, but offering to pay for your girls’ hair and makeup on your wedding day is a huge gift and would be widely appreciated.  Get a really pretty gift certificate to announce it, stick a few smaller objects in there and you have your box!

Whatever you choose to do to ask your bridal party to be apart of your big day, the most important thing is to make sure that they know why you couldn’t be who you are today without her. The priority of picking your bridal party is that each person knows she is so important to you that you want her to be a significant part of one of the most important days of your life.

Did we miss any fun bridesmaid proposal ideas that you think we should share?? Let us know in the comments!

Lauren Allen, Author

Lauren is a bridal consultant and self-published author, with a background in celebrity styling and bridal make up artistry. You can find her with an oat milk cappuccino in the morning, and a glass of Cabernet at night, her real passions. Get enough wine in her and she will tell you about her perfectly planned wedding. Just promise not to ask about the groom, that’s one detail she’s still working on. Lauren is based in NYC and her book “How to Be 23” can be found here

Gone are the days of bridesmaid norms: it’s no longer standard that they’re ugly and they no longer have to even be the same dress! Because unless you have a party of clones, everything looks different on everyone.

My favorite (long term) trend is having each bridesmaid wear a different look, giving everyone the option to purchase a dress/outfit that they’re comfortable in and enjoy wearing while still looking cohesive with the other members of the bridal party.

How to do it without looking like a mess?

That was a question I got ALL the time as a bridesmaid stylist and yes, the process can be a little overwhelming, but that’s what this post is for! So here’s the ultimate guide for how to mix and match your bridesmaid dresses:

There are 3 main components of a bridesmaid look

Color, Cut, and Length are the things to play with when wanting a little variation among the bridal party. You can pick just one to keep the same (my personal recommendation) or mix them all up! Combo suggestions:

• all the same color and length, but different necklines and silhouettes (super popular)

• Different shades of the same color with different necklines, but same length

• Different lengths and necklines with the same color

• Different styles in the same color (ex: jumpsuit, short dress, long dress, separates)

Let’s talk color

1) If you’re a bride that feels 100% out of her element when it comes to color and fashion, do yourself a favor and stick to the SAME DESIGNER for all the bridesmaid dresses. It’ll guarantee you that the colors will be similar, while getting the same fabric (yes fabric is important).

2) You can either stick to one color and do a variety of shades (ex: blues- midnight, sky, slate, etc) OR go for a color palette (ex: coral, baby pink, fuchsia, nude)

3) Add in patterns! So many bridesmaid designers are now offering patterned dresses and it’s a great way to incorporate all your favorite colors and give your photos a little extra dimension. Tip: not everyone has to be in a pattern, break it up with a few people wearing a solid color that matches!

4) If you got SUPER stressed just reading the points above, visit a bridal salon and they’ll help you pick! Stores keep swatch books as well as sample gowns so you can have all your options laid out in front of you. If you don’t want to go in person, many online retailers will mail you swatches! It’s a great way to not only see the color, but get a chance to feel the fabric as well

Fabrics are fun

Switch it up with a variety of fabrics! Go all out and have everyone in something different while keeping with the wedding colors. Popular fabric choices for bridesmaids are:

• Chiffon

• Jersey

• Crepe

• Sequins

• Beaded

If you’re going to have people in varying fabrics, the color will automatically be different so take advantage and put them all in complimentary colors too!

One last thing

If you still want all your bridesmaids in the same dress, but want your Maid/Matron of Honor to stand out, apply the tips above to only her! She can definitely be the singular bridal party member in a complimentary color, beaded gown, or patterned look.

If you’re only just now starting your dress search and you’re beginning to hyperventilate after reading all of this, then I’d suggest (taking a deep breath first) reading the blog post about shopping for bridesmaid gowns. You can find that here.

Happy coordinating! As always, feel free to email me with any questions you may have and I’d be happy to help

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

If any of you have also been living on Bridal TikTok these last few months, your head is also spinning with ideas for your wedding! Besides learning how to politely tell your guests to leave their little ones at home, and how to save money (but absolutely not time) by making all of the floral decor yourself, we have also learned how to step out of the expected to make your wedding day memorable for you and your guests. 

1. Welcome surprises! 

We all know that weddings never start exactly on time, which means that guests are usually left empty handed and mingling with strangers, unsure of what to do or where to stand. On Instagram we saw a recommendation to have guests put their drink of choice with their RSVP so that they could be handed a cocktail (or mocktail) upon arrival. GENIUS!! You could even have a little charcuterie board ready for guests to snack on while they are waiting for you to get all of the final touches taken care of without being rushed

2. Ceremony backdrop! 

The background of where you say “I DO” is a place for countless customization options. This could be a wall of flowers, a photo backdrop, a metal arch with flowers and greenery placed strategically. Just having your officiant and a few flower arrangements behind you is a thing of the past. Choose a backdrop that will represent who you are as a couple (and what type of decor you will decorate your house with because these pictures will be hanging on your walls forever). This is also an amazing way to bring in small businesses to your wedding day! This may feel like 1 of the million decisions you have to make, but to whoever you hire to create this backdrop, this will be their main focus. Hire a professional if you want it to be memorable! 

3. Photo ops! 

We all love a photo booth, but sometimes they can give us flack backs to our awkward prom date or a children's birthday party. Make your guests’ photos Instagram worthy by commissioning a custom photo background! This could be a huge floral backdrop, a sketch of you and your fiancé so it feels like you in every picture, or even just a print that is inspired by your other stationary. Your guests will line up all night to get a picture with the perfect background and lighting, so don’t forget a ring light to make sure they look amazing. Click here to order yours!

4. Your gown!

Even your wedding gown can be customized from head to toe if you are willing to put in the trust and imagination that it would require! If that sounds like a lot, you also have options of customizing dresses that you order from bridal salons. Some designers have customizing options when ordering like lining/unlined, extending/shortening the train, adding/removing sleeves. If the designer can’t make changes when creating the dress, there are also a lot of customization options that can happen in alterations. A tailor can build up a dress to make it more modest by ordering extra elements from the original dress, they can lower the back of the dress to show off your curves even better, or they can add beading to make the whole dress shine under the lights of your reception. You could even have a veil custom made to match your gown! Just keep in mind the changes that you want to make when considering your budget for your dream dress! 

What are you going to have customized to make your big day special?? Let us know below!

Lauren Allen, Author

Lauren is a bridal consultant and self-published author, with a background in celebrity styling and bridal make up artistry. You can find her with an oat milk cappuccino in the morning, and a glass of Cabernet at night, her real passions. Get enough wine in her and she will tell you about her perfectly planned wedding. Just promise not to ask about the groom, that’s one detail she’s still working on. Lauren is based in NYC and her book “How to Be 23” can be found here

“Do I need to hire a wedding planner?”

Hi! Sam here. Yes, you can plan a perfectly wonderful wedding without one, but I’m here to tell you that the longer I’m in the wedding space, the more I find myself telling people GET A PLANNER. To further drive home this point, I recruited wedding planner Kari Dirksen of Feathered Arrow Events to guest write this post so she can get into the details of why you need one. Tell ‘em, Kari!

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As a wedding planner, I am constantly educating my clients and potential clients on the importance of hiring a wedding planner and why everyone should hire one for their big day! You should always make room in the budget and hire one from the very beginning of wedding planning because you’ll be way less stressed and prepared throughout the process. I’m sharing my top reasons as to why a wedding planner is a great idea!

#1 (and most important) reason to hire a wedding planner

We are there for YOU! If your venue also has a Venue Coordinator, they really are only there to serve the venue. A wedding planner however, services the couple. We are your advocates, confidants and experts in the field and during the event. Wedding planners will help you weather any storm. Both literally (rain plan, anyone?) and figuratively. One year, I helped move an entire wedding for a couple in one week whose original venue was evacuated due to a wildfire. This past year was a real doozy for couples everywhere. I helped so many of my couples postpone plans, reschedule vendors and be a go-between all the parties.

#2 We’re there to hold your hand through it all

I’m not only helping to plan your wedding, I can also help you design your wedding to keep things cohesive + beautiful. A wedding planner has an eye for design and knows all the details, both big and small, that will wow your guests.

#3 We read contracts

Yes, all the fine print. As a wedding planner, one of my jobs is to pour over your contracts to make sure you aren’t surprised with hidden fees, and familiarize myself with all the policies/guidelines and making sure that you sign a legit contract so that both parties are protected.

#4 We keep you on track!

Planning your wedding doesn’t have to be stressful with the right planner by your side. We will create your to-do checklists, timeline, seating chart, budgets, etc. Then we coordinate this information with all of your vendors to make sure everyone is on the same page to keep the big day as smooth as possible! One of the first steps I encourage newly engaged couples to do is to make an estimated budget. As your wedding planner, I can help you build this with realistic price expectations so you don’t accidentally misspend your budget on a few select items.

#5 It takes a village to execute a wedding!

Wedding planners have tons of relationships with people in the industry and are a great resource for the best venues + vendors. We can help you find someone not only within your budget, but also someone you are excited to work with + love their style. Researching the right vendors can take hours but we can help you narrow that down right away. Wedding planners will come to meetings with you, run your rehearsal, be one of the first ones on-sight to set up décor and one of the last to leave after packing everything up.

#6 We come prepared the day of the wedding

And with an emergency kit full of goodies to fix just about anything. I have seen a lot in my day. Ripped dress seams, table numbers flying off tables due to high winds…you name it. Over the years, I have expanded my emergency wedding kit to quickly resolve any crisis that arises.

#7 We keep the day running on time and troubleshoot!

A wedding planner’s job is to keep the wedding running as smoothly and stress-free as possible…but sometimes, things happen. Maybe it’s a vendor issue, or a guest concern; we find solutions so you can continue to enjoy your celebration uninterrupted. Most of the time couples don’t ever know of any minor mishaps because we have it under control.

#8 Hiring a wedding planner means you and your guests can enjoy the day!

I can understand the thought process that letting your friends or family help with decorations might save some money, but ultimately it’s not worth it. You want everyone enjoying the celebration worry free. Not stressing about moving chairs or setting things up.

No one has ever regretted hiring a wedding planner to help them with what is typically the most important day of their lives. You can still be involved and plan or design as much as you want but having an expert guide along the way never hurt anybody. Good luck planning and if you need a wedding planner, please head to our website and fill out our inquiry form at featheredarrowevents.com.

Happy Planning!

Kari Dirksen, Author

Kari is the owner of Feathered Arrow Events and host of The Local Table podcast. When this native Iowan farm girl isn’t in her office designing weddings or planning epic celebrations, you can find her learning how to make the perfect latte or traveling to Yosemite. She loves to give back and is a self proclaimed donut connoisseur. Follow her on Instagram @featheredarrowevents

Now that we are back to being able to schedule weddings, we thought you might want a few ways to make your Save The Date’s more unique! A simple card with an engagement photo and your wedding location/ date does the job, but why not leave a real impression?  Remember, this is the first piece of correspondence related to your big day, so use the opportunity to set the wedding tone!

1. Wooden magnets 

We know magnets with photo or collage were popular for a while, but why not get creative with the material?

2. Coasters

It doesn’t get better than something that is both unique and useful

3. Maps with the location circled

OR a save the date that folds open like a map? Très intéressant

4. Polaroids

The creative cousin to the typical save the date, especially for those going for a vintage theme!

5. Bookmarks

Literary couples unite! Also another dual purpose option

6. A custom illustration (from us obvi 😉)

You know we got you, click here!

7. A scratch off (lottery style)

Make it fun!

8. A calendar page

Give your date announcement a twist, or even a fun way to tell people you’ve changed your date?

9. Anything unique to you and your fiancé’s love story- sports related , or cooking (like wooden spoon)

We always say, the more personal the better

Have you ever received a save the date that really stood out to you? Let us know in the comments!

Lauren Allen, Author

Lauren is a bridal consultant and self-published author, with a background in celebrity styling and bridal make up artistry. You can find her with an oat milk cappuccino in the morning, and a glass of Cabernet at night, her real passions. Get enough wine in her and she will tell you about her perfectly planned wedding. Just promise not to ask about the groom, that’s one detail she’s still working on. Lauren is based in NYC and her book “How to Be 23” can be found here

Winter is the most magical ~looking~ time of the year. Who doesn’t love a striking wedding picture with blankets of snow in the backdrop of a first kiss photo? Snow falling gently over the bridal party as they line up for photos with their bouquets help against their waists, every color popping against the bright background. If you have ever dreamed of a winter wedding, that is exactly what you are looking to capture on your big day. 

Picturesque Location

Unfortunately there aren’t many places that you could guarantee snow on your wedding day, but not many guests would be mad about traveling to a beautiful ski resort for a weekend to watch you tie the coziest of knots. If you know there is going to be snow, you will want to make sure there are safe ways for your guests to get to your nuptials without fear of getting stuck in the ice. 

Bringing the Heat

Whether or not you end up with a fresh dusting of snow surrounding you on your big day, there are a few things you can guarantee for your guests to make sure they stay warm and cozy throughout the day. Besides the obvious, space heaters (which should be available everywhere), you might also consider finding a huge selection of fuzzy blankets in neutrals like ivory and tan, to have waiting for the guests on their chairs (and maybe a pre-ceremony beverage?). They can stay warm while listening to your hand written vows. 

All Fired Up

The cocktail hour is another time that typically goes between indoor and outdoor, so having a fire pit or two will allow for great mingling between people who might not know each other as they warm their hands by the fire. You can even have a s’mores station for the kids! Let’s be honest though, the grown ups will be more than happy to dive in as well. 

The Extras

If you are willing to go as magical as having horse drawn sleigh available for your guests, we want an invite!! How enchanting would that be?! Don’t forget the faux fur capes for you and your bridesmaids, you all will be warm and  very photogenic. 

Did we miss any important details for the perfect winter wedding? Let us know!

Lauren Allen, Author

Lauren is a bridal consultant and self-published author, with a background in celebrity styling and bridal make up artistry. You can find her with an oat milk cappuccino in the morning, and a glass of Cabernet at night, her real passions. Get enough wine in her and she will tell you about her perfectly planned wedding. Just promise not to ask about the groom, that’s one detail she’s still working on. Lauren is based in NYC and her book “How to Be 23” can be found here

The holiday season is officially here and we are already loving all of the seasonal wedding pictures that are filling our Instagram feeds! 

That being said, we know it’s not easy to decide on a holiday wedding. Long weekends, beautiful decorations, and iconic playlists are all very enticing (along with an anniversary date your spouse can’t forget). We love the romance of it all, but will your guests be just as happy to leave their family to celebrate your nuptials? We have put together our suggestions for planning the holiday wedding of your dreams! 

The “dos and don’ts” of scheduling a holiday wedding:

Do: send out invites early! 

If you are asking people to travel around a major holiday, you have to give them enough time to plan it out. 

Don’t: Expect the normal acceptance rate

Because of long standing traditions, many invitees will not be able to attend. This just means they will be the first to like your Instagram pictures so they can feel like they were there with you! 

Do: Make sure the food is EXTRA good! 

Most of us spend the entire year dreaming about Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Eve dinners. Make your wedding one to really remember by sharing an amazing meal with the friends and family that join you on this extra special day. 

Don’t: Play only holiday music

There’s a time and a place for some beautiful background music with the classics. I even recommend turning some right now, I am listening to my Christmas playlist while writing this! But, after the ceremony is a reception, not a corporate Christmas party. Don’t loose sight of what you are all gathered for. 

Do: Think about the extra costs

Many vendors will charge extra for hiring them on a major holiday (and higher flight costs for guests). Focus on what’s most important to you and put the money there (for some it’s food, others it’s photography. I would have a hard time choosing!) 

Don’t: let anything stop you from having your dream wedding! 

If you have always wanted a snow angel themed Christmas Eve wedding, let nothing get in the way of that. This might mean compromising on other things like having a huge guest list, or getting married in Saint Patrick's Cathedral, but you can still make your dream wedding come true. Get some backup fake snow just in case it’s not a white Christmas, gather your closest friends and family, and go get married!

Happy holiday planning!

Lauren Allen, Author

Lauren is a bridal consultant and self-published author, with a background in celebrity styling and bridal make up artistry. You can find her with an oat milk cappuccino in the morning, and a glass of Cabernet at night, her real passions. Get enough wine in her and she will tell you about her perfectly planned wedding. Just promise not to ask about the groom, that’s one detail she’s still working on. Lauren is based in NYC and her book “How to Be 23” can be found here

Guest books feel so 1990’s, don’t they?

What are you supposed to do with a book filled with signatures?

We put together a list of fun ways to remember who all came to your wedding! These ideas will allow your guests to be a part of your everyday life in unique ways. We won’t judge if you decided to do a few of these on your big day 

1. SamiaLynn Illustration

Have a large custom print ready for every guest to sign around the illustration. Once the wedding is over you can frame and hang in your house! Link here for the bridal shower version

2. Connect 4

Get a large game of Connect 4 and have guests sign one of the pieces. This will be something you pull out every game night and will remind you of each person at the wedding as you play. (If Connect 4 isn’t your jam you can do the same thing with Jenga!)

3. Cards Against Humanity

If you have a creative crowd they will love filling out blank Cards Against Humanity cards for you to play for years to come. Think of all the inside jokes and memories that your guests could come up with! 

4. Date Jar

Have each guest fill out a card with their best date night idea and now you don’t have to think about unique date night ideas for your first year of marriage! Once a week or a month you and your hubby/wifey can randomly select a card and that will be your fun/romantic date

5. Globe

Instead of a book that gets hidden away, have your guests sign a globe, pointing to places that they suggest you travel to. This is especially fun for the world traveler couple

6. An oversized bottle of wine

Need I say more??? 

7. Recipe book

Have each guest share their favorite recipe on an index card as well as sign their name and leave a note on the back

Have another creative idea? Let us know!

Lauren Allen, Author

Lauren is a bridal consultant and self-published author, with a background in celebrity styling and bridal make up artistry. You can find her with an oat milk cappuccino in the morning, and a glass of Cabernet at night, her real passions. Get enough wine in her and she will tell you about her perfectly planned wedding. Just promise not to ask about the groom, that’s one detail she’s still working on. Lauren is based in NYC and her book “How to Be 23” can be found here

Let’s be honest, most people that are getting married nowadays are already set up in their homes and aren’t super desperate for the latest version of the Keurig coffee machine. Unless you’re contributing to their honeymoon or house fund or gifting money, there are A LOT more creative things you could be giving the newlyweds. Read on for fun ideas if you want to go off registry…or add to mixing bowl set you already sent their way.

1. A custom wedding illustration by Samialynn!

If a photo says 1,000 words, a custom illustration shows your love with no need for any words

2. A private cooking class

The new couple could spend an evening learning to cook a delicious meal that they will then be able to recreate for any special at-home date nights

3. A case of wine with custom labels for all the things that happen in the first year

This could be anything from their first night at home as a married couple, first fight, first snow day, and finally, first anniversary

4. Mr. and Mrs. Sports jerseys for their favorite team

Did the happy couple bond over a sports team? Custom make then jerseys with Mr. and Mrs. Last Name with their wedding date on the back

5. Road signs pointing to important locations like first date, wedding location, honeymoon.

This could be yard signs, or hung in their home, as long as it brings fond memories every time they look at it

6. Monthly flower subscription

They just paid an absurd amount of money for one special day, keep them surrounded by fresh flowers and gift them a bouquet subscription

7. Scratch off map to scratch off the places they have traveled

Couples who love traveling will love scratching off their vacation locations to reveal the photo below. This will also work as a way for them to choose their next trip

8. A personalized shadow box

Customize it with an image of them, or their monogram, ready to collect anything they want like wine corks, beer tops, or tickets

9. A raclette cheese grill

… just trust me. Gooey delicious cheese drizzled on top of grilled meats and veggies. Filling and fun!

10. The “Our Place” pans that are the talk of the Instagram town right now

I don’t even enjoy cooking and Instagram is convincing me that I need this pan

You’re now set with a solid list that will last you quite a few weddings (or recycle ideas, we won’t tell!) and get you all the “best guest” points. Happy shopping!

Lauren Allen, Author

Lauren is a bridal consultant and self-published author, with a background in celebrity styling and bridal make up artistry. You can find her with an oat milk cappuccino in the morning, and a glass of Cabernet at night, her real passions. Get enough wine in her and she will tell you about her perfectly planned wedding. Just promise not to ask about the groom, that’s one detail she’s still working on. Lauren is based in NYC and her book “How to Be 23” can be found here

So you were titled Maid Of Honor?

It is now your duty to plan the bridal shower. This comes with the responsibility of choosing the bridal shower games. First thing’s first- if you pull out a roll of toilet paper to trick the guests into mocking up wedding dresses made out of two ply, you will see eyes glazing over before the food is served. 

We have looked deep into the depths of the history of bridal shower games and came out with the best of the worst options for your prenuptial celebrations! 

1. Flower arranging

Get dollar store vases and grocery store fresh flowers and have the girls create their own bouquet. This will also be the decor at the party that will essentially clean itself up as people leave. 

2. The couple likes to cook? Fill out recipe cards

Have each person at the wedding fill out a card with their favorite recipe which will then create a book of meals for the newlywed couple 

3. Wine tasting

Get creative with your choices of wine. Maybe one from every place the bride and groom have visited, or where they are from. Or just ask the helpful clerks at Trader Joe’s for their favorites. You could even use the bottles first for the garter toss. 

4. Garter toss

Set up bottles of your choosing (we vote wine bottles, but this could also be sparkling cider) and have each guest take turns tossing the garter, trying to hook a bottle. Whoever rings the most bottles wins the bottle or another prize!

5. Heads up- bridal addition!

This could include everything from Wedding Gown to the Bridesmaid movie. We vote that you have to drink every time you lose a round!

6. Hidden gems

There will be hidden gems around the party and as they are found the person who spotted it first gets a prize or just a fresh glass of champagne 

7. The “what’s in your phone” game

Get up close and personal with the guests to find out what’s really hidden beneath their passcodes. This can be as scandalous as you want to make it! Last (wo)man standing (with the most unique phone finds) wins. 

8. Write my vows

Have either groups or individuals write the bride’s vows. They will be read in front of the group and the most creative/fun wins a prize.

Have fun!

Lauren Allen, Author

Lauren is a bridal consultant and self-published author, with a background in celebrity styling and bridal make up artistry. You can find her with an oat milk cappuccino in the morning, and a glass of Cabernet at night, her real passions. Get enough wine in her and she will tell you about her perfectly planned wedding. Just promise not to ask about the groom, that’s one detail she’s still working on. Lauren is based in NYC and her book “How to Be 23” can be found here