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

Going into 2021 we all have high hopes and low expectations of the year. 2020 brides are fighting to get 2021 dates, but no one really knows what this year is going to bring. The only thing this is sure is that weddings will be happening 7 days a week whether there’s 25 people or 250 people allowed to congregate. (Thank you Zoom for bringing us all together when we can’t actually be together!) During these nuptials there will be a few trends that really stick out. 

1. Masks are cool!

Whether you like it or not, masks are there to stay for a while. If you are gathering in a large group of people, our suggestion is to find a fabulous cotton mask that matches your outfit and rock it like any other statement piece. If you are willing to go the extra mile and keep it on for pictures, you will even save on makeup because anything below the mask doesn’t matter! We’ve even seen brides have masks made to match their gowns. This may be scary to think about it, but showing that to your future children will be one crazy story!

2. Outdoor venues

More than ever couples are searching for venues with as much open space and fresh air as possible. Not only will ceremonies be outside, but cocktail hour will be fireside and the reception will be under a beautifully decorated tent. Guests should bring an extra layer for warmth, but most venues will have a large collection of space heaters to keep the reception warm and cozy. 

3. Less is best

Any head count you had assumed you would end up with years ago is now being cut in half. Couples are having to be picky about who gets to spend their special day with them. Sorry distant relatives, if you aren’t willing to have the couple over for Sunday dinner then you probably won’t be invited to the nuptials. Some couples are holding out for the large party and we love that for them, but those are weddings that will happen much later in the year.

Side note: no matter how big your wedding, if you’re getting married in 2021 and haven’t ordered your wedding dress yet, it’s time!

4. Mood lighting

Since everything is now being set outside lighting is more crucial than ever before. Electricity? Who needs it? We have candles galore! And if that’s not enough we can add a few (or as many as you can find) twinkle lights all around the tented reception to shine like the stars that are glowing above the tent. So romantic!! 

5. Weekday weddings

Every couple that had to cancel their wedding in 2020 filled up their venue’s schedule for every Saturday in 2021, so weekday weddings are now taking over. If the specific venue is a priority and you got engaged after 2019, you will be getting married on a Thursday and starting a long weekend of being newlyweds by Friday morning! With most of America working from home right now, and restrictions on head counts, the people who are an important part of your wedding should have an easier time attending mid-week than ever before. 

6. Skip the skippable

There are so many overwhelming little details that go into wedding planning that we think can be cut off of your to-do list. Menu cards, ceremony schedules, and guest gifts are just a few of the extra headaches that end up getting left behind and forgotten about. Spend your money on the food/experience rather than the stuff that will be left behind after the DJ plays the final song. Keep what is really important to you and ditch the details that don’t bring you any joy. 

We aren’t exactly sure what 2021 is going to bring, but we can’t wait to watch love win over everything! Your wedding day is about you and the love of your life vowing to stand by each other’s side through the good and the bad. Let’s be honest, a pandemic is just a test of this promise that if you got this far in the blog, we know you’ll be just fine. Let us know which of these trends you’ll be incorporating into your wedding this year!

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

As we are all slowly coming out from a lock down with travel vouchers just sitting in our email ready to be put to use, we thought we would share some destination wedding inspiration today. In our last post we shared ideas for micro weddings since traditional weddings as we knew them are becoming a thing of the past, but why not take advantage of the smaller guest count and get out of your backyard? Unfortunately, some of these locations may not be accessible to us Americans for a while, but all the more time for planning! 

When planning a destination wedding we recommend having a go-to person with his/her feet on the ground that is able to speak directly to all of the vendors you will be working with for your wedding. This will probably be a wedding planner, or close family member that lives close to the venue. 

We have put together our dream destinations depending on what your preferred background may be for your nuptials. 

Mountain Views:

Washington state - We heard a rumor that you can get married in a tree house!

Tropical Paradise:

The Caribbean - Make life easy for your guests and you by planning the whole wedding weekend in a resort which will help the celebration last for days rather than just one night.

Mellow Mediterranean:

Amalfi Coast, Italy - I made the mistake of missing this stop on my last Italy trip, so now you need to go and send pictures!

Countryside Romance:

Ireland - This is where the real party is, a Guinness (or whiskey) toast for everyone! 

Exotic Adventures:

Bali - Culture, Beauty, and villas for days!

Change it up:

Pick a location where your family is from and explore the area! This could be domestic or international, the goal is just to get out of your neighborhood. 

*Don’t forget to get the paperwork side of wedding planning done before you leave if you’re choosing a location abroad. You will want to be legally married when you say “I Do!” *

Happy traveling!

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

As a bridal consultant, one of the questions I ask every bride is “how many people are you expecting at your wedding?” This would typically be answered in the hundreds. Now the response I get is, “well, we were planning for X amount, but now we are just wait to see what will be allowed.” And this is for weddings over a year from now! We are starting to think that micro-weddings may be the way of the future, so why not start planning for them rather than fearing them? 

What you’ll need: 

• A Dress:

  That is your preference if you’d rather order a white dress from Revolve, or pick up a more traditional dress at a bridal salon’s stock collection. Just remember that this will probably be the most photographed dress (or jumpsuit!) you will ever wear, so make sure you love it! 

• Flowers:

  Want to save money on a florist? Raid your local grocery store (or bodega if you are in NYC) and pick your own flowers! This could be a fun adventure for you and your mom/maid of honor. Pick a variety of options and then mix and match for bouquets and center pieces. 

• Backdrop:

  We believe it’s still important to have a great backdrop for your ceremony, even if only a handful of people sitting down to look at it. Just think of the pictures!! This could be anything from an extensive flower arch, or your family home’s front door decorated in the most romantic way possible. 

• Photographer:

  Whether this is someone that you trust with a point and shoot camera, or a professional with a face mask, you are going to want pictures of your wedding to fill your Instagram and the walls of your first home together. Don’t skimp out on the photos, they will help you share your special day with everyone in your life. 

• Borders:

  Don’t let your micro wedding feel empty just because you couldn’t have hundreds people in attendance. Enclose the area where you are having your reception to give it a more intimate feel. We love the idea of doing this with fairy lights or draped fabric!

Only invite the people you love most: Blood may be thicker than water, but put the people you love to sit back with a glass of wine with at the top of the list. Think about who will be sitting on your front porch rocking chairs with you 30 years down the road and invite those friends and family to join you for your intimate nuptials. 

Which wedding detail do you feel like you can’t live without while planning your Micro Wedding?

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 search for your wedding vendor team has begun and by that I mean the stress of sifting through the hundreds of caterers, planners, bands, and everyone else needed to throw your dream wedding. You’ve probably realized by now that you need to either up the budget a little or cut back on a few ideas.

The one place you shouldn’t cut from? Your photos.

(and the food, but I digress)

Meet Berit Bizjak (illustrated above):

She’s a luxury wedding photographer with 20 years experience in the industry. Her first photo job experience was as a sports photographer (the football fan in me is LIVING for this) in NYC after getting her BFA in Photography (honors, ya’ll!) and only after that did she start concentrating in fine art photography and assisting other photographers at weddings. Fast forward to after her kids being in school full time, she founded her business, Images by Berit. But, she didn’t stop there and proceeded to spend the next 2 years in intensive training so she could learn how to best run her business and photograph weddings. She has since become a Certified Professional Photographer and Berit says this is “a milestone that means that I can actually succeed in the unusual combination of technical and artistic skills, also known as fine art wedding photography”.

So much more goes into being a wedding photographer than people realize so Berit has given us a few reasons why it’s completely worth it to spend those extra bucks and go “luxury”:

1. They got the skills

By the time a photographer has reached the level of photographing high-end weddings, her skills will be second nature, allowing her to be fully present and creative on your day of celebration. You won’t have to worry about consistency in her documentation and portraiture, or having the proper equipment and back-ups to do the work

2. They can actually handle your wedding day sh*t

Calmness is key, as well as organization and professionalism. Your photographer should be accustomed to working with event planners and other professionals in high-demand environments that involve precise timing. She’s always got your back

3. They never stop learning

We continually take courses, seminars, and live training, as the industry is constantly evolving. This will cumulatively affect the results of your images

4. They understand the importance of a timeline

She understands the cadence of your wedding day, as most of us have photographed hundreds and hundreds of weddings. Your photographer should know how to multitask and know what to expect while welcoming the unexpected, too! If you live in the northeast, we also know how to work with and prepare for constantly changing lighting. From dark ballrooms to shooting on a sun-drenched beach, it’s all in our back pocket

5. They’re dedicated

Successful luxury photographers love their craft, and love humanity. She gets excited about learning new cultures and traditions, and studies them in detail prior to your wedding day. Her dedication and love of people should show in everything she does

6. No shortcuts. Ever.

She loves the work, and spends unlimited time with her clients before, during, and even after your wedding. The quality of her products and albums are the best in the industry, with every detail attended to

7. They take the time to make everything feel right

She takes the time to get to know you as a couple (engagement photo sessions are great for this), and it shows in your imagery. Couples should look and feel relaxed, and should have some fun, also! Creating unique portraiture that you are comfortable with is important

8. They get you the results you want

There is a reason you love her work, and you may not know exactly why, but I would say it’s because of all of the above. Experience does cost more, but photography is the only tangible from your wedding that grows more valuable with time

Just to drive #8 home: remember that when all is said and done, what you’re left with to remember your special day (besides your memories) are your photos/video, so make sure they’re the best they can be!

You can find Berit on Instagram @imagesbyberit or peak her BEAUTIFUL photos through her website, www.imagesbyberit.com. She’s not only a talented photographer, but is such a genuine person with a love for learning and passion for celebrating the differences that make us who we are.

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

Bridal gowns come in every different shape and style you could ever imagine (and then some), but not every bride wants the trendy sheer bodice with a plunging neckline that hits just about the belly button. Seeing these trends flood Pinterest pages can worry some more modest brides, making them think they can’t get a beautiful wedding dress without making a large amount of custom changes to a gown. It is possible to look beautiful and elegant without showing much skin in the process. Below are our favorite neckline and sleeve options for a more modest bride to look absolutely stunning on her wedding day. 

Neck lines:

-Boat neck- this neckline accentuates the collar bone by falling just below while scooping up at the top of the shoulders. 

-Scoop neck- a mix between a boat neck and a sweetheart style, this neckline shows slightly more chest while still keeping you covered from all angles. 

-Mock neck- a turtleneck's little sister, the mock neck style shows off your long neck while allowing optimum detail to fill the neckline. 

-Illusion neck- most of these necklines could also fall until the illusion neck family. Illusion is simply tulle that is either your skin tone or ivory (white in the bridal world). This is then covered in pieces of lace appliqué and could be either lined or unlined underneath. Illusion is intended to give the tattooed lace look, as if there is nothing there but the beautiful lace. The more lace on the illusion, the more modest the final look is. This also leads to much easier alterations if you love a gown, but wish it covered more surface area. 

The sleeve lengths are a little more self explanatory. It’s also good to keep in mind that any full sleeve can pretty much be altered to any of the other sleeve lengths:

-Sleeveless 

-Cap sleeve 

-Elbow length 

-¾ sleeve 

-Full sleeve 

Another great option to cover a more revealing gown is a bridal jacket, or bolero. These can be removed after the ceremony, or sewn onto the gown for permanent coverage. These come in hundreds of different styles and can be easily added to any gown. They do work best with sweetheart necklines typically. These are also great for anyone’s winter wedding when trying to get photos outside! 

With these options alone, you have hundreds of unique combinations for your ideal wedding gown to make you feel comfortable and confident!

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

Just in case you thought your wedding was just about you and the love of your life, I am here to burst your bubble.

From the moment you announce your engagement, everyone you know and love will be attempting to find their place in your wedding. Will your cousin be a bridesmaid? Your aunt wants to know because her daughter is pretty sure she needs to be dress shopping. Will your college roommate get a plus one? She’s not dating someone in particular, but she has her eye on someone who would look great in a suit. Is Mary from middle school even invited?

Our recommendation is to take someone you trust, with a backbone of steel (most likely your maid of honor, or a family member), and crown her your “NO” girl. What do I mean by this? Any time someone asks you for a special request or clarification that you feel guilty saying no to, send them to your no girl. They will just think you are busy and you trust this girl with all of your biggest wedding decisions, but what she will know is that anyone who gets directed to her by the bride automatically gets a “no” to whatever it is that they are asking. This person will know exactly the way to let your aunt, roommate, and middle school friend down easily and definitely. It is also the way for you to wash your hands of any guilt that may bring you. 

I grew up Catholic, so I know guilt quite well, but I have seen the way that wedding planning can tear a bride apart with all of the people she feels like she has to let down on her big day. So many people want so much from you that the budget just doesn’t allow for. It is also a day that you will look back on for the rest of your life. Make sure that everyone involved is there for a reason. We’ve already talked about your wedding guest selection in a past blog though (linked here). 

If you haven't already, call up your “no” girl to inform her of her duties, and then kick back and relax because you just lost tons of emotional weight off your shoulders. Chances are, your girl will be thrilled to take on her duties and wear it like an invisible cape over her shoulders at all times. 

Cheers to the rest of wedding planning gone smoothly!

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

Planning your wedding festivities takes months, if not a year or more. Your seating chart has been organized to perfection, the DJ has your playlist down pat, you soon will pick up your perfectly tailored gown. There are a few things we think you might have forgotten to plan for the day-of getting ready process though. Feel free to forward this list to your Maid of Honor because you already have enough to worry about that morning!

1. Hand Steamer

If you don’t own one already, go ahead and order it now and then thank me later. This is a life saver for mornings when you'd rather spend more time sipping coffee than ironing your work shirt. It will also be used for everyone in the wedding party. While you are getting ready, have your bridesmaids take turns steaming all of the bridesmaids dresses, your wedding gown, and your veil. Once steamed hang the gowns and veils until you get dressed and you all will be picture perfect. Also, we recommend the men get in on this tip too, there’s nothing sloppier looking than a wrinkled suit

2. Sewing Kit

This is likely to be the most photographed day of your life. We can’t allow for any unfixed wardrobe malfunctions! Make sure to have a sewing kit with you in case of emergencies like a zipper not staying in place, or a button coming loose. Chances are high that you won’t need it, but if you do need that needle and thread you will save yourself a lot of time and heartache knowing it’s ready to go. This recommendation comes straight from personal experience of having to sew a bride into her gown an hour before she walked down the aisle

3. Snacks and Water

You have spent hours selecting the food for your cocktail hour and sit down dinner, making sure there is something for everyone while also representing you and your fiance properly. Have you thought about what you will snack on before the hors d’oeuvres are served? We understand you want to save your appetite for the overpriced food you already ordered, but no one wants you hangry and dehydrated while saying your vows so make sure to plan your getting ready snacks and drinks (water and maybe a side or 2 of champagne) ahead of time

4. Toothbrush and Toothpaste

After all of your snacks that will most likely get covered in hairspray from the hair stylist trying to touch up your hair, you will inevitably want to brush your teeth one more time before your lipstick goes on and you are ready to kiss your HUSBAND! (or wife, wherever your heart has led you) A mint could also help, but a good teeth brushing is always refreshing and will make sure your teeth are as white as can be for all of the pictures that will be taken throughout the day

5. Final Payment Envelopes

Weddings involve hiring a lot of vendors to put together a lot of pieces of the puzzle that is your dream wedding. Many of them will expect to be paid once they finish their job. We recommend filling pre labeled envelopes with the payments, thank you notes, and tips for your vendors. Select a designated person to hand them out at the appropriate times of the night. This could be a family member or a bridesmaid, but it has to be someone organized and trustworthy

You’re now fully prepped to make one of the best days of your life go smoothly so you can enjoy yourself and be fully present with your new spouse!

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