There are so many opinions expressed when a couple decides to have a court house wedding;

“ Is she pregnant?”

“Well it should be, this is her second marriage you know”

“ Oh, they must not be able to afford a big wedding”

“ Good for them, save the money and buy a house”

“ Aww they must be really in love”

“ How Bold!”

Hi! I’m Sadia, fashion and bridal stylist. Whatever your reason is to have a court house wedding, you do not have to compromise your style. As a professional stylist, I have a few tips about choosing your look:

1. Scout your location

First thing you should do is make a trip to your local City Hall or County Clerks office, whatever they call it in your city, and scout the lobby area and the surrounding areas of the building for photo opportunities. This can help determine the look you might go for. If neither area is great for photos, choose a photo location (your photographer can also help) and this will give you more freedom to choose your look. Now you can determine which category you fall into and pairs well with your proposed photo location: Traditional, Boho, Romantic, Modern, Edgy or Glam.

2. pick your outfit length

Next decide what length do you want your dress to be: short, midi or long? Or do you want to wear a jumpsuit or suit? Are you keeping with tradition and wearing white or opting for a color? So many things to decide! A detail that is usually missed is what is the style of your future spouse? The goal is to blend your styles together to create a magical look for the day. I always say, your partner is your best accessory! Make sure they compliment your look.

3. Decide on budget

We are saving money on the ceremony, yes? So, what are you spending on your clothes, shoes, accessories and bouquet? Are we on a budget or going all out?

4. be true to you

Finally, always stay true to your style, who you are daily. This is not the time to be someone else and wear a “costume”. Your wedding look should be a direct reflection of who you already are! The photos will last forever so make sure you will recognize yourself.

I’ve gathered a few images that represent the styles I’ve mentioned above. Where does your style fall or is it a combination?

Traditional: Satin, classic timeless, feminine

Boho: lace, slip dress, effortless

Romantic: Tulle, lace, ballgown, bows

Modern: Sleek, sophisticated, structured

Edgy: color, unconventional, pant suits, tuxedos, jumpsuits, non-traditional

Glam: Shiny, feathers, sexy silhouettes, drama, beading

If you ever need help shopping for your wedding day look or simply want to have a wedding gown expert be with you on your wedding day (Day of Wedding service) stop by my website www.idoidoidony.com and I’d be happy to speak with you! Be sure to follow me on Instagram @sadiaseymour.

Happy Planning!

Sadia Seymour, Author

Since she was 8 years old, Sadia had the fashion bug. While also a stylist, she is currently an instructor at FIT (her alma mater). The New York native empowers students to follow their fashion dreams and you’ll probably find her busting out her dance moves backstage

Weddings are (and should) be unique to the couple themselves. You choose your wedding party, who’s speaking or giving toasts at the ceremony or reception, the theme, etc. But in certain cases, to bring your vision to life, you have to involve the guests and give them direction. Do you want gifts? Is there a specific dress code? Are kids allowed? These are all things that need to be indicated in your invite suite, but can sometimes be awkward to write out. I’ve asked Kate Turner of Kate + Company (the QUEEN of luxury weddings) to help guide how to properly phrase certain requests in the most sophisticated way possible:

How to say "kid free wedding"

To communicate a "no kids" policy at your wedding, we recommend using your invitation envelopes to guide guests. You can use inner and outer envelopes, addressing the inner envelope to the family (Mr. and Mrs. John Smith) and the outer envelope with the couple's given names (Suan and John). By listing it this way, clearly without the kids names, it's a red flag that this is adults only! For your RSVP card, include a "number of guests attending" area. Most guests will understand and respect this rule. If needed, handle exceptions on a case-by-case basis. While you can include the phrase "Adults Only" on your reception card, we don't recommend it.

How to say "no gifts" or "money only"

It’s important to remember while giving a wedding gift is common practice, no one is actually required to buy you a wedding gift so indicating any registry details on a wedding invitation could be interpreted as rude and is a big etiquette no-no. We recommend allowing for word-of-mouth on your gift giving preferences. However, if you want to list something it's more appropriate to do so on your wedding website.  We recommend the verbiage, "Your presence at our wedding is a present enough! However, if you'd like to give well wishes with a gift, we'd appreciate you considering cash or gift cards to your favorite store. This will help us achieve our dream of turning our house into a home / taking a once in a lifetime vacation / etc. For your convenience, we've linked some of our registries below. Thank you! Sarah and Paul".

How to instruct color palette or specific themed dress code

We love being direct here so there's no confusion. Typically an attire preference is listed on the reception card. Typically you'd indicate "All Pink Attire Preferred" or "Black Tie". If you need to give more detail, we recommend moving this to an FAQ's section of your website! Two important things to remember here: (1) Black-Tie is only for events after 6pm and (2) part of being a gracious host is allowing your guests to be comfortable. Being too strict with a dress code may be a financial challenge for some of your guests causing them to forego attending your events. If that's okay with you - great! If not - make it easy on your guests! 

How to invite people for the reception only and not the ceremony

An invitation is technically two parts, the larger piece invites guests to witness your marriage at the ceremony. Then there is an insert that invites them to the reception. If you are inviting some guests to BOTH events and some guests to the reception only, you will first need a stationer that's good with variable data - that's key! Next, you'll need two variations of your main invitation. Variation One - follows standard protocol and invites guests to your ceremony, includes the date, time, location. Variation Two - the main insert will actually be an announcement and not include the time or location. Then these guests get the same reception insert. 

How to explain a "British style" wedding aka morning ceremony then evening reception

This is actually very common in our marketplace (midwest USA) because most Catholic weddings are similar - late morning or early afternoon ceremony followed by a gap and then evening reception. You'll simply use the main invitation to invite guests to the ceremony indicating the time, etc. Then a reception card indicating the details of the evening portion. If more explanation is needed, we'd suggest pushing this to your wedding website. 

Kate is a luxury wedding and event planner based in St. Louis, MO, although the company does execute events all over! As this boutique-style team specializes in the most luxurious of wedding experiences, they do only take on a limited number of events a year (aka your guest experience is guaranteed to be elite). Kate + Co has been featured in all the top industry publications, including Brides, Martha Stuart Weddings, and Vogue Weddings.

Kate prides herself with being surrounded by the best teams and has a true passion for creating gorgeous events that reflect the unique style of each couple. When she’s not commanding a room flip, you’ll find her playing tourist with her kids and husband.

Even if it’s just for gorgeous inspiration, be sure to follow Kate on Instagram @kateandcompany and check out her website at www.kateandcollc.com.

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

Weddings are that special day (or weekend, or..week?) that you can really have your personality as individuals, and a couple, shine through. There are so many special touches you can add to any aspect of the events to wow your guests and have them saying “oh that’s SO them”. From the invites to the food to the reception entertainment, there’s a million options and sometimes, it’s the little things that make the difference.

So how do you decide? Let’s break these ideas down by personality or traits:

The foodie

Splurge on a 7 course meal or specialty food stations for a buffet. Bonus points for corresponding wine or drinks! I attended a wedding at a guest with a multi-course dinner and I can confirm it was the best thing ever. Need wine pairing recs? We go over all of this in a blog post! Click here to check it out.

The Fashionable One

Pretend like you didn’t see this one coming: live guest illustrations! Photos are always nice, but custom art as favors is the icing on the fashion cake. Click here to learn more about live sketching.

The Influencer

Hire a content creator! It’s a great way to get all your phone coverage for you to post later, without having to worry about it on your big day. Have more questions about content creators? We have a blog post about that too, just click here to read.

The Boozy One

Cocktail hour idea: have a tasting! Wine, liquor, beer, whatever goes with your food or wedding theme. This idea also works great for a welcome party if you’d prefer a smaller crowd.

The "Extra" One

Go all in on a grand entrance or exit (forget the sparklers or confetti). Arrive in a carriage, leave in a boat, skydive into the ceremony, use a smoke machine down the aisle, pick your “extra” level and go for it. Or take a page out of the Southeast Asian wedding book and arrive on a horse or elephant (but be sure to check with your venue first).

The Kid at Heart

Two words for you: Bounce House. Yes, wedding bouncy houses are a thing and they look SO FUN. They come in all white and you can add extra florals around it for a special touch!

The Fearless One

Another trend that I’ve been seeing around: tattoo artists. We’re talking real, permanent actual tattoos. This idea is obviously for a very specific type of couple, but maybe you can add a temp tattoo station for those guests who…aren’t quite as adventurous?

The Eco Enthusiast

Nothing drives crazy a green movement follower more than being wasteful; and from that standpoint, yes, weddings can produce a LOT of waste. So why not cut down on that a bit? I’ll list a few ideas below, but the one I think is the most innovative is “seed paper”. Paper made out of actual seeds so you can plant and water them when you go home and look at that your place card turned into tulips. Here’s more:

• “Paperless Post” save the dates (honestly, this is just easier for everyone)

• Use local blooms

• Reuse said blooms from the ceremony and bouquets into the receptions space

• Pick a menu with seasonal, local ingredients

• Rent, borrow, or thrift outfits, linens, and decor

• Use biodegradable confetti or balloons

• Hire a bus or shuttle for transportation to and from the venue

• Plant a tree for your unity ceremony

The Dancer

This is fun for both you and your guests because everyone knows you’ll probably have the best music for the dance floor. But aside from that, why not do a choreographed dance with your new spouse? Or during parent dances. If you don’t want to do it yourself (or are unable), hire professionals! Guests will love the dinner entertainment. Take it a step further and get dancers that relate to your cultural background.

The Traveler

As an avid traveler myself, I LOVE this as a theme. Plus, there are a ton of ways to do it:

• Make your invite suit into a passport with boarding passes

• Create your table numbers based off all the places you’ve traveled together

• Make a map as your escort wall

• Use an atlas and polaroid photos for your guest book

• Thrift vintage trunks and globes as decor

• Speaking of globes, get a minimalistic or chalkboard one and use as a guest book

Which of these do you identify with the most?

Let us know in the comments below what special touches you added to your wedding! We’d love to hear from you.

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

Is your calendar sending you notifications that your wedding anniversary is coming up? Does that reminder send you into a spiral about what to do to celebrate and how to show your partner all that these last 365 days has meant to you? We know the feeling, so we wanted to share some of our ideas with you for you to book mark for when you’re ready!

I want to start by saying that a heart felt card is never a bad idea! If that is the only gift you can give, great. If it sets the tone for the main gift, even better!

1. A custom sketch

Did you know that I not only sketch AT weddings, but I can also sketch from one of your favorite wedding photos? Order a custom sketch for a new perspective on your wedding day, proposal, or engagement shoot, and more art for your partner to hang on your walls! Also, in case you weren’t aware, the “traditional” first anniversary gift is paper. So there you go!

2. Wedding Cake remade (not frozen from a year prior)

I’m not sure who decided that the best wedding tradition is to eat year-old frozen cake, but I would like to request an upgrade. Connect with the bakery that made your wedding cake and have them remake the top tier so you can enjoy the cake as much (if not more) than you did on your wedding day. 

3. Add on to the rings

Nothing says love like fine jewelry! Kidding (but not really). Add to the stack with a new ring - just like trees gain rings to show their age, so can your marriage! 

4. Private Picnic

If you have been on TikTok you have seen how beautiful and romantic a private picnic can be! Your partner is bound to ask if you are going to re-propose (AKA this would be great to combine with the updated ring stack). If you live in NY state we have a great connection- The Garden of Era Luxury Picnics which you can find on Instagram here: @thegardenoferapicnics.  If you live in the DC metro area this is the host for you: Luxe Picnics @luxepicnics.d.m.v

5. services

If you’re less of a “physical presents” and more of a “doing” kind of couple, here’s a suggestion: house cleaning services while you take them out to their favorite lunch and spa. Nothing makes an “act of service” love language spouse melt like doing something that they probably would have had to do on their own. Extra points if your spouse doesn’t have to decide who, what, where, or when!

Which of these anniversary gifts would you like most??

Let us know in the comments below what your favorite gift you’ve received was! We’d love to hear from you.

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

Lauren here 👋🏻

Recently I was filling out a questionnaire for my wedding photographer and one of the questions was “what type of unity ceremony will you be including in your ceremony?” And I panicked because I hadn’t considered any of my options and we are a month out from the big day! If you are engaged or about to be, let me share some of our findings so you can plan better than I have!

1. The Celtic knot

Using a ribbon, rope, or scarf, this tradition shows the physical as well as spiritual bond that marriage represents through tying the couples’ hands or wrists together. Quite literally “tying the knot”. In ancient Ireland, this ceremony is also called “hand-fasting” and be tied together while you recite your vows.

2. Combining sand

This tradition is perfectly placed at a beach wedding so that you can use sand from the beach you are getting married on. It also works for blended families if you would like your children to be represented in the unity of the family. Sam went to a wedding where the couple each brought sand from their respective home countries.

3. lighting a candle

The unity candle is typically lit by each partner holding their own candles and lighting the third candle together, symbolizing two people becoming one. 

4. releasing a lantern

Best done during a dusk or night ceremony, this symbolizes sending your love out into the universe. Some like to put notes or vows inside as well!

5. The lasso

Put around the neck or head- the wedding officiant will wrap a garland of your choosing around each partner’s neck in an infinity symbol during the ceremony and then after it is removed the garland can become part of your home to be a constant reminder of your never ending love.  Traditionally, floral garlands are used in southeast Asian ceremonies, and around the head (attached with a ribbon) is usually seen during Greek weddings.

6. Pouring paint on a mini canvas

This is similar to the idea of pouring sand, but instead creates art for the walls of your home. Pick a color to represent each of you (and potentially a color for your children if they will be a part of the wedding). Combining the colors will show how two are becoming one on that day. 

7. Combining drinks

If art is not your thing, find what is! Do you like drinking wine together? Or is tea your comfort after a long day? Combine each of your favorite flavors to become one. 

8. Planting a tree

This is a great way to visualize your love growing and becoming stronger over the (many) years. Also, a great option for the more eco friendly couple!

9. The time capsule

You can add in wine, letters, objects*, and open it on important anniversary. This could be something that just the couple participates in, or the rest of the guests could be included if you’re having an intimate ceremony. Having memories to be reminded of years down the line will bring you back to the day you said “I do”.

*If you want a couple’s illustration to add to your box, just click here!

10. Jumping the Broom

This ceremony symbolizes jumping into your new life together and sweeping away your past so that you can start new as a married couple. 

Which of these ceremonies would you choose for your wedding? But most importantly, which one do I choose?!? Let me 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. Lauren is based in Kansas CIty and her book “How to Be 23” can be found here

Trends can be fun and for those that have been married for a while, it can be even funny to look back on what you (initially) thought was important or looked good. So I asked people who have been married for 5+ years what details they still LOVED about their wedding day. Not everything will last the test of time, but these did for them! So if you’re in the middle of wedding planning and are probably a little overwhelmed, maybe one of these notes will help some of those decisions:

“We really made it ‘our vibe’! Classic vintage with a quirky twist. I also DIY’d a lot!

-Kate

“Spending 10 minutes alone, just the two of us right after the ceremony before greeting people. We also had a live band, lots of dancing, and an open bar! It was so fun!”

-Alison

“Instead of a guest book, we had folks write us letters that we would open in the future. We opened letters on year 1, 5, 7, and then the last will be opened this year at year 10. We’ve had so much fun on those anniversaries, popping open a bottle of champagne and reading wonderful notes from everyone who was there with us that night”

-T

“We did NOT do a first look. As much as I love them from the planning side, I’m glad we didn’t do it.”

-Mallory

“I tell everyone to do this (and our planner told us): While everyone was at cocktail hour, we had a private room overlooking the [cocktail hour] space where we were able to drink champagne and eat appetizers in peace for 10-15 minutes together. It was a way to see the decor and our guests celebrating without anyone knowing we were on the balcony above observing and taking a moment for ourselves”

-Jessica

“We loved doing a first dance, a garter toss, and a fun exit!”

-P

“Our wedding was in St. Lucia and we spent a week before and after the wedding there. People filtered in and out based on availability, but we got to spend real time with everyone instead of just the wedding day (when you really don’t spend time with anyone)”

-Jenn

“I had three flower girls and I don’t regret that. I loved them!”

-Candice

“We did our first look before the ceremony so all our photos were already taken. After the ceremony we spent 30 minutes together in private before joining the party. Being able to mingle with friends and family during cocktail hour was important to us. Almost 10 years later and it’s still the best part of the night outside of dancing!”

-Tara

At the end of the day, make your wedding your own and concentrate on what’s most important to you both. Remember to take even a few minutes to just soak in those special moments alone. Whether it’s during a first look, after the ceremony, or a private dance at the end of the night; because the entire point of the WHOLE THING is that you got married to your special person and the stress and adrenaline of planning can sometimes take from that.

If you’ve been married for over 5 years and have something to add, let us know in the comments below! We’d love to hear from you.

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

Weddings are such a special time for friends and families to come and celebrate a couple taking a huge step in their lives together. If you are invited to a wedding it means that the couple considers you to be an important part of their lives and a part of their future together as spouses. The job of the wedding guest is not hard, but it does have a few boundaries that you should be careful not to cross. We have listed some of the most important rules of (general) guest etiquette for you so there’s no guessing involved!

No white/ivory/cream

If I see one more TikTok with a wedding guest asking if her all white dress with a single black flower is wedding appropriate I might just become an internet troll. The rule of thumb is, if you have any doubt that your outfit isn’t appropriate, change outfits.

Always refer to the wedding website

Don’t know what to wear? Check the website! Don’t know where the couple is registered? The website has it! Don’t know where to stay for the wedding weekend? It’s on the website! I guarantee you, 95% of your questions will be answered on the wedding website. It’s literally what it was made for.

RSVP as soon as possible

From the second a couple sends out their invites they check DAILY to see who has responded. The sooner you can give them an answer the better. I know it can be hard if you think you cannot make it, but just know… there is a mini celebration every time a notification comes through saying someone cannot attend the wedding. Not responding doesn’t immediately mean a no, it means anxiety for everyone involved. So always respond and respond well before the deadline.

If the invite says "adults only" don't ask to bring your kid

Again, check the website. The general rule is always that the only people invited to the wedding will be listed on your invitation. Other than that your kids, auntie, and dog are not invited (sharing this from personal experience, not as a joke!)

Don't get in the photographer's way

The soon to be newlyweds have most likely spent thousands of dollars to photograph their big day. Your view is important, but not as important as the photographer's view! They are also not there to find your good side, so there’s no need for you to try to get into every photo possible.

If the couple says "unplugged ceremony", don't take photos

Again, thousands of dollars have been spent to memorialize the ceremony. Your iPhone photos are never going to be the photos that get printed and hung above the mantle. If the couple has asked for an unplugged ceremony it’s because they want you to be in the moment with them (and their ceremony photos to be devoid of hands with phones in the air). Let the professionals do the job they were hired for.

If you are married or are getting married soon, what are some pet peeves you have of wedding guests that we might have missed??

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

Custom wedding (specifically bride) illustrations were the very first custom offering I ever started created. It’s now grown into all sorts of custom illustration offerings including couples, friends, family, etc and I love offering all sorts of options so everyone can find what they’re looking for! However, when it comes to custom, the process can be a bit more confusing than simply buying an art piece and I get the same common questions over and over so let’s do an official FAQ on how to order a custom wedding illustration:

who are custom sketches for?

Literally anyone and everyone as art should be! The whole point of ordering a custom piece is to have something special that you can connect with before or after the wedding day. And they make great gifts as well because who doesn’t love something custom made for them? Here at SamiaLynn we are inclusive and not here to judge. No matter who you married or who you’re gifting to, everything is an option.

can you sketch [insert your idea here]?

It’s the number one question I receive and my favorite answer this always: “when you can draw, you can draw anything!”. If you have a specific art style in mind, I always ask for example photos so I can let you know whether or not that’s a style I can accomplish. If you love the way I draw already then I can draw you anything you’d like! This is your vision, I’m just here to make it happen

does it have to be an exact photo of what i want?

Absolutely NO! If you do have an exact photo you’d like me to draw, that’s amazing. However, most of my clients want to “build” their custom piece so aside from the people/pets/background you want to be the focal point, feel free to send me any inspiration photos, or photos for specific poses, clothing, scenery, etc. These photos also, by no means, need to be professional, but if you’re getting a sketch of any clothing that has a pattern or embellishment (lace, beading, etc) on it then I will need clear/close up photos. If it’s a wedding dress and you know the designer, you can always let me know and I will look up the gown if you don’t know the exact style number or name.

how does the process work?

Like I mentioned in the previous question, we’re building this piece together and go through it step by step! After you send over photos, descriptions, ideas, etc, I will work on a super rough draft for you to approve the layout. If we’re working through multiple ideas, I will send those over at the same time so you can pick which one you’d like to go with. From there I’ll send you the final lines and you’ll approve it or request changes before I fill it in with color and details.

What if i don’t know what i want?

That’s totally fine! I love bring a vague idea to life! We’ll just go over what you’re generally looking for, who you might be gifting it to, and your “why” behind the order. Talking it out always brings the right answer to the surface.

Can i pick the illustration size?

The default size for custom wedding illustrations are 11x14”, but all sizes are certainly available and are custom quoted so feel free to ask!

What is the turn around time?

For custom illustrations, an approval of the rough draft is required before I will complete the order and ship out. The faster the approval, the faster the completion. Typically, I can ship out within 1 week of the order, however, if I have a number of orders to complete it could take up to 2 weeks. First class USPS domestic US shipping is included in pricing which (depending on where it’s going) takes roughly 3-7 business days. Rush rates for both creation and shipping are available for an extra fee.

where can i buy a custom sketch?

I sell custom illustrations through my website and Etsy. Items available through samialynn.com are only shipping in the USA and Canada right now, but hopefully will go international soon! If you’re not in the US or Canada, or would like to ship elsewhere, you can purchase through my Etsy shop here

how do illustrations ship?

All regular sized illustrations are shipped in a plastic sleeve with chipboard in a non-bendable envelope along with a piece of cardboard for extra sturdiness to ensure the paper stays flat. All custom, non-framed illustrations come wrapped in tissue paper and ribbon. Orders larger than 11x14” are shipped rolled up in a tube. Option to add a free gift message if it’s being sent directly to the recipient!

i have more questions!

I’m always here for you! Just send an email to samantha@samialynn.com and I’m happy to answer any questions you may have. Hope to hear from you soon!

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

Sam here! 👋🏼 I’ve been working in weddings for a long time and I will be the first to tell you that this industry moves SLOW when it comes to trends. AKA “new things” don’t pop up super often (and if they do, it was slowly forming from something else anyway).

HOWEVER, a few months ago I was sketching at a reception and met my first wedding content creator. If you’re like me and thought “Wtf is a wedding content creator?” then this is the blog post for you. Her name is Hannah Bruce and she graciously answered allllll of my questions so you can decide if having a content creator is right for your big day or weekend. Because I don’t know about you, but I was immediately intrigued, so let’s dive in:

What does a wedding content creator do?

As a wedding content creator it's my job to capture all the raw, candid, and unseen moments. I also capture all the details that the couple spent hours upon hours planning that they might not even see or fully be able to take in on their wedding day. I film everything vertically on an iPhone so it's perfectly formatted to share on the couple's social media. I deliver all the raw footage as well as edited videos the day after their wedding so all the couple has to do is hit post!

I think it’s also important to note that a content creator has no intention of replacing your photographer or videographer and should not be treated as such. They are there to capture moments for your social content and aspects of the wedding that you as the couple have missed (i.e. guests interacting with any entertainment, their reactions to dances/food/decor, cocktail hour, etc)

What value does this bring to a wedding experience?

I give couples another way to remember their wedding to the fullest. Having someone dedicated to taking videos for you to look back on allows your guests to be guests and you and your bridal party to be fully present. So often the day after the wedding, the couple doesn't have any footage from the day before and they have to wait several weeks for their photographer or videographer to send the final edits. And having edited videos to easily share on social media the next day is just icing on the cake!

Who is the ideal client for this service?

Any couple that wants those candid, behind the scenes moments and/or videos to share on Instagram or TikTok. I approach each wedding differently, so if you're into making fun/trending videos for social media, I'm here for you! And then I also have couples who are less interested in posting and just want to see their wedding from a different angle and have those memories captured.

What end product do couples receive and how long does it take?

The couple will receive all the raw video clips which are sorted into folders (ie. getting ready, ceremony, cocktail hour, ect.). As well as edited videos (between 2-3 depending on the package they choose) and before the wedding we decide what kind of edited videos they'd like to recieve. Everything is delivered via Google Drive the day after the wedding!

What’s the ballpark cost to hire a content creator?

Between $800-$2000 depending on how many hours, the season, and year.

(Note: this does not include travel fees)

Could vendors also hire you?

Yes!! I'm available for anyone and everyone's content creation needs!

(Fellow vendors: if you’re like me and find it next to impossible to get content of yourself working, this is your solution!)

Hannah is based in DC and is also a professional ballet dancer! She married her high school sweetheart in 2020 and has since built a social media presence sharing tips, tricks, and inspo about all things wedding related. This past year she launched “To Have & To Post”: her wedding content creator service. Be sure to follow her on Instagram and TikTok @hannahraybruce and her content creator page @tohaveandtopostweddings.

I recently made a reel using all video content from the wedding we worked together! Click here to check it out on Instagram

So, engaged couples, what do you think about this service and would you have it at your wedding? Let me know!

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

Fact: for many weddings, your florals will take up a BIG part of your budget (and for good reason).

However, this doesn’t have to be a “one time purchase”. Besides being able to re-use pieces here and there throughout the wedding weekend, there are a ton of ways you can transform your florals into decor pieces for your home post-events.

But first, let’s talk about Sola Wood Flowers. A company that specializes in creating affordable floral bouquets made out of wood. Yes, I said WOOD. Sola wood comes from a tapioca plant root; it’s molded and painted into floral bouquets that you can’t even tell that it's fake. The company was even featured on Shark Tank! Here are their suggestions for home decor you can create from your wedding florals:

1. Wreaths

Wreaths are an easy and obvious choice for floral creations. Whether your flowers are preserved, dried, or artificial, you can use them to create a gorgeous wreath that you’ll love to display on your front door. Simply get a grape vine wreath form and add your flowers with floral wire or hot glue. This is an easy way to create a decoration that is totally personalized. 

2. Centerpieces

You can also use your preserved wedding flowers to create gorgeous centerpieces that you can display in your home throughout the year. For this craft, you’ll simply need a vase or bowl and some floral foam. Place the foam in the bottom of your vase and then carefully stick the stems of your flowers into the foam in your desired arrangement. Make your centerpiece “forever” by using Sola Wood Flowers!

3. Resin Art

If you love DIY crafts, you might like to use your preserved flowers to create some beautiful resin art. Resin is used to create crystal-like pieces of art that immortalize the beauty of your flowers after they’re dried using silica gel beads. With resin, you can preserve your flowers in coasters, book ends, paperweights, and more.

4. Wall Hangings

Once your flowers are preserved, you can also easily display them in form of a wall hanging. For example, you can use some pretty wall vases, shelves, or wall sconces to hold a small, pretty bouquet of your wedding flowers.

5. Spa Bathroom Florals

If you love creating a spa-like environment in your home, your wedding flowers could be the perfect touch for your relaxing bathroom vibe. You can display your preserved wedding flowers in a pretty vase on your countertop. You could also make a dangling chandelier of your florals that you can hang above your tub. You can even make soap or candles with tiny dried flower petals. These are easy ways to upgrade your bathroom with some wedding flowers.

6. Seasonal Garlands

If you have an empty mantle or banister that is in need of some sprucing up, you might want to create a beautiful, seasonal garland with your wedding flowers. You’ll love to display this gorgeous garland in your home, especially when you’re hosting a fun party.

Your wedding florals should be 100% YOU, so let’s make them last longer than just your wedding weekend. Once you’ve figured out how to preserve your wedding flowers, you’ll be able to create gorgeous home decor from those special blooms!

Need ideas for bouquet preservation? Check out that blog post here.

See for yourself how life-like Sola Wood Flowers can be! Visit their site at www.solawoodflowers.com and follow them on Instagram @solawoodflowers to grace your feed with all the gorgeous florals that stay in bloom forever.

Happy planning!

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

We are pretty deep into wedding season right now, and my TikTok has been flooded with wedding content. I love it! One trend that I have been seeing more than ever (thanks to social media, not because it hasn’t been happening) is incorporating vintage wedding dresses into your wedding. Most of these dresses are the brides’ moms’ (or grandmothers’) dress, but this could be done with any family members’ outfit, or just a beautiful gown you found at Goodwill. Today I wanted to share with you a few ideas of what to do if a vintage gown happens to land in your wedding wardrobe:

1. Tailor it to you and wear it proudly!

Almost 35 years ago, my mom wore her moms’ wedding dress. She changed the fitted sleeves to puffy sleeves and opened up the neckline which I questioned my whole life until looking at bridal trends while planning my own wedding. I never believed that huge sleeves and satin dresses could be so popular, but here we are again. Take the wedding dress that was given to you and don’t be afraid (with permission of course) to make it your own! This can also apply to a veil or other wedding looks/accessories.

2. shorten it

Take the sentimental vintage dress and shorten it to wear for your bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, or reception look! This is such a great way of including a special piece from a family member’s wedding day while having your wedding day be about creating memories of your own.

3. Add a slit and party all night!

Sort of the same idea as shortening, but with any vintage dress you may have, never forget you may have the option of adding a slit and turning it into your reception/after party dress! You’ll typically be able to create a slit if the dress is fitted and is there’s a seam somewhere in the front or it’s a ballgown/A-line silhouette with the extra fabric you need. By using this option you will have entered into marriage with your something new, but you’re celebrating your marriage with memories of the past.

4. Use just a little something

If you don’t want to wear the dress as is, or if it’s too damaged and fragile to wear, you can take pieces of the dress (like lace appliqué) and include it into your wedding day. Depending on how much lace you have, it can be added to the waist, bodice, sleeves or hemline. Other fabrics can be used to create sleeves, bolero/cropped jacket, or shawl. A big way would be to use the lace for your veil, and a small way would be to sew a piece of that dress to the inside lining of your dress, or make it a part of the flower girls’ dress. You could also wrap your bouquet in fabric, or use some of the fabric as a pocket square (if you or your fiance are wearing a suit)!

Save this post and use it as a reminder to preserve your wedding dress! Even if you choose not to use any of these ideas on your wedding day, a family member 20-50 years down the line might and I know they would appreciate you putting in that extra effort. Looking to have a custom gown designed? Let’s chat! Just click here.

Happy dressing!

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. Lauren is based in Kansas CIty and her book “How to Be 23” can be found here

Hi ya’ll, Sam here 👋🏼

As someone with a degree in fashion design, fabric talk comes second nature to me. But for the other 95% of the non-industry population, I might as well be speaking like the Minions from ‘Despicable Me’. Fabric selection can (and should) make all the difference to the outfit you pick for your wedding. Especially if you know your venue location will have an extreme type of weather or you’re hoping for specific design details.

I know that bridal fabrics can be super overwhelming and confusing, particularly when you don’t even know how to describe it. So let’s go over a few of the basics you’ll see across the board while shopping for your wedding look(s):

Quick note: natural fabrics (such as cotton, silk, etc) always have a synthetic alternative. Sometimes you won’t notice and sometimes it makes ALL the difference. Just something to keep in mind while you shop!

1. Satin

Satin is a classic, smooth fabric that tends to be thicker and comes in either matte or shiny. This makes for beautiful, elaborate ballgowns and it can handle the weight of crystals if you’re going for a more embellished look. If you’re aiming for a non-embellished and more “architectural” feel, then this also works amazing for big bows and deep pleats. Due to it’s “thicker” nature, this fabric is best for cooler environments and not your beachside wedding.

Pairs well with: ballroom venues

2. Micado

Micado is often confused for satin, but its major difference is the texture. Satin is smooth while micado has a “twill” texture to it (aka more woven and has a diagonal grain). However, like satin, micado is a beautiful fabric that is more thick and typically made of silk. Therefore, it’s not great for super hot environments. It’s great for structured gowns and can come with a shiny or matte finish. Certain types of micados are super stretchy so this could be a great option if you’re going for something super tight and form-fitting. You usually won’t see micado gowns embellished, the texture is gorgeous on it’s own!

Pairs well with: estate or chateau venues

3. crepe

Yes, it’s the same spelling as the delicious French stuffed pancakes, no it is not pronounced the same (but that’s a different story). Crepe is a medium thick fabric that is opaque, but does not hold structure very well. You can find it on its own, but most designers like to pair it with lace. It’s perfect for fit and flare/trumpet dresses and makes an incredible long train if that’s your style. It does have a slight texture to it, but it’s very matte. Depending on its makeup, crepe can either be stretchy or slightly more stiff. It’s also become a very popular option for bridesmaid dresses.

Pairs well with: chic city venues

4. Tulle

Want to look like a princess on your wedding day? Tulle is your go-to. This fabric does come in a few different mediums, but the most popular is made of nylon (or silk if you want to be fancy and spend a lot of money) and is what veils are made of. For quality purposes, I would not recommend the polyester version. Tulle is a sheer netting and can snag easily, but it’s edges won’t fray so it can just be cut and done! If you’re looking for it as part of your gown, this will typically be the skirt portion, although there are some gorgeous full tulle options out there. The bigger the skirt, the more “classic princess” you’re going to look. If you’re going for more subtle, then a few layers over the lining or an overskirt will give you a truly romantic, ethereal vibe.

Pairs well with: garden venues

5. chiffon

One of the most popular evening fabrics, chiffon is a semi sheer and very light fabric. Tulle and chiffon have the least amount of structure out of any fabric you’ll come across and always requires lining (unless see-through is your goal). It breathes well which makes for a great beach outfit. Due to its lightweight nature, it can’t really hold heavy embellishments on its own, so that’s usually why you’ll find crystals or beading on the bodice. It’s usually not stretchy so just letting it drape and be its natural, flowy self is best. Chiffon is also the most used fabric for bridesmaid gowns and comes in a ton of different colors.

Pairs well with: tropical venues

6. Lace

Lace is more of a fabric embellishment (?), but we’ll dive in: lace is usually made of cotton which is twisted and knotted into various designs and also comes in many different thicknesses. These terms all have French names and the ones you will typically see in the wedding world are called “alencon” (pronounced Ah-Lon-Sawn) and “chantilly”. Alencon is more textured and has cording woven into the design. Chantilly is light and delicate, and can come with little “eyelash” edges. If a gown is fully lace, there will be lining underneath (unless shear is your thing then you do you). Lace is a great way to bring interest to sleeves, hems, and necklines without shine or beading (the looks that go ALL OUT with have both!). Lace is also very popular on the edge of veils and the best factories are in England, France, and Italy. It can come in full yards, like any other fabric, or just as a trim.

Pairs well with: any venue!

7. embellishments

Ok, I know this isn’t a “fabric” per-say, but it is a topic that many people get confused about so let’s clarify a few fashion terms:

• Sequins: those flat or slightly concave shiny plastic tiny “discs” that are sewn through a hole in the center. They can make a fabric shiny without beading or crystals.

• Beading: beads come in many (MANY) forms, but when it comes to bridal, you’ll usually see them in white, ivory, clear, or silver (or gold). A full beaded gown may be heavy, but they’re great for making beautiful designs.

• Crystals: also can be called “rhinestones”, these gems usually have prongs (like jewelry) and, again, can come in many sizes. Typically you won’t see them in color, but to each their own. Crystals are what make up most wedding belts and sashes.

At the end of the day, if you’re getting confused in the world of wedding fabrics, just ask your stylist or seamstress. They work with these fabrics ALL DAY and can usually answer any question you may have. But, I hope this guide helps you feel a bit more informed when going on your shopping adventures. Looking to have a custom gown designed? Let’s chat! Just click here.

Happy planning!

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

Sketch created for “The Honest Planner” by Susanna Richardson

In loving memory… 

The hardest part of getting older is saying goodbye to people you love. When you are getting married you are reminded that those you have lost will not be there with you in person on your wedding day and let me tell you… it sucks. 

My sister and I are both getting married this year (my sister a few weeks ago and me in a few months) and there have been countless phone calls about how we would do anything to have our Pa around for just a little while longer so he could see us enter this next big stage of our lives. I’m not going to lie, I am getting a little choked up just writing this. 

I know we aren’t the only ones deeply missing someone on our wedding days, so today we wanted to share a few ways to keep their memory alive on your wedding day and forever after. 

I’ll save a seat for you

Save a seat for your loved ones in the front row of your ceremony. Decorate the seat with flowers and either a photo/ sketch of them or a sign with a note saying “In loving memory of those who cannot be here today but are forever present in our hearts”

Click here for a custom person sketch

I’ll always remember you

Have SamiaLynn illustrate your wedding photos to include those who have passed and will not be photographed with you on your wedding day. This is a great way to forever embed them in the memories of your wedding. 

Click here for the “Family Group” Illustration

Click here for the “Wedding” Illustration 

To all who couldn’t be here today

If you and your fiancé have loved and lost too many people before your wedding day, set up a table at your ceremony in memory of all of those who could not be with you on your big day. Include framed photos of them, florals from your other centerpieces, and even some candles to bring attention to the table.

To have and to hold

Hold your loved ones close to you as you walk down the aisle by including a memento from them in your bouquet. This could be a small charm or locket attached to the florals, or using a small amount of fabric from their wedding dress to wrap your bouquet together. I have also seen some beautiful examples of this, but sewn to the inside of your wedding gown. 

For those of you who are having to choose one of these options, I am sorry for your loss. You are so loved and including these little details in your wedding will remind you of that for the rest of your life.

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. Lauren is based in Kansas City and her book “How to Be 23” can be found here

While many bridal store owners are flying back from Barcelona right now, we’re still reeling from the fashion at NY Bridal Market. 

If you don’t know what that is, it is a week (in April and October) where many bridal designers that are based in NYC and the surrounding areas show their newest collections to their retailers. Store owners/buyers fly in from around the country to order the samples that they will have available in store for brides to try on. There are other markets similar to this in Chicago, Los Angeles, and as I’ve already mentioned, Barcelona.  These events range from a room with racks of dresses all the way to a glamorous fashion show similar to fashion week. 

Every season we like to track the most common trends to see how real brides wear the trends in the next year. This year there were a few very distinct details that we have to tell you about!

1. Color

   We saw so many colors this season! Black wedding dresses are in the top of google searches as always, but this season many designers played with pastels and water colors (Ines Di Santo was one of my favs!)

2. Short dresses

A big conversation right now is second dresses, particularly short dresses. Many designers are coming out with entirely new collections of short dresses for the party look, but many others have included a shorty or 2 into their standard collections (hello, elopement people!). My favorite way to see this done is with a closed overskirt so you truly get 2 looks in 1! This is typically the most cost effective way to get a second dress as well, but short dresses are also popular for other wedding events like the engagement party, rehearsal dinner/welcome party, or day after brunch

3. Drop waist

In the same way jeans are dropping low in street style again, so are the waistlines of bridal gowns! You’ll see this in two different ways, a basque waist which is a v shape (think “Bridgerton”), or a standard straight drop waist. We are seeing these in every variety from just slightly lower than the natural waist to so low you’re concerned about what could be seen A La Lady Gaga at the Academy Awards this year

4. Sheer

Many brides have become more and more concerned with the weight of their wedding dresses. Personally, I blame Covid because we wore athleisure for over a year and now many of us still work from home at least a few days a week in casual clothes. The heaviest part of a dress can typically be the lining. Removing the lining not only takes physical weight away from the dress, but also visual weight. Being able to see slightly through the dress gives an airy look like the dream scenes from a movie

Which of these trends would you consider including in your wedding look? Or DM me on Instagram and I’d love to discuss!

PS- Have you seen the sketches I did of Berta’s new collection this season? They’ve been featured in the online magazine Wedding Day Match! Click here to check it out

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

Lauren here! 👋🏼

As we have talked about a few times now, l am a 2023 bride and wedding planning has become a second job for me. I must admit, this might be my favorite job even though my first job does allow me to play with beautiful dresses everyday. One perk of wedding planning is that I get to see things in a new perspective, especially all of the offerings on samialynn.com!! Obviously I have studied Sam's website multiple times as I've been writing these blogs for years now, but the selection didn't fully hit me until planning my own wedding. That being said, here is my list of "must hire Sam for this ASAP” for my wedding planning needs.

1. Signature drink print

   We will be having his/hers cocktails and everything is more fun illustrated instead of just printed. Plus, there’s multiple layouts to choose from! Or maybe we’ll just go full custom. Stay tuned!

   Click here for the “Signature Drink” print

2. Custom group illustration

   My sister and I are both getting married this year so I love this as a gift for my parents after! Another great group option is for the wedding party

   Click here for the “Family Group” Illustration

   Click here for the “Wedding Party” Illustration 

3. Live illustration

   Who wouldn't love to leave a wedding with a sketch of their fabulous outfit to remember the evening by? It’s the perfect mix of entertainment and guest favors

   Click here to inquire for live sketching

   Click here for the FAQ blog post on live art

4. Wedding planning stickers

   I actually gifted these to my sister when she began to plan her wedding and she has been loving the organization and decoration! And this isn’t any old sticker set, these are actual customized with your wedding palette, skin tone, dress style and more.

   Click here for “Wedding Planner Stickers”

5. Custom makeup bag

   How cute would it be to show up to our honeymoon with an illustration of our wedding day to keep in my beach bag?? Also makes a great bridesmaid gift my friends would actually use

Click here to add a “Cosmetic Bag” to your cart*

*Please note the listing above does not include the custom illustration

6. Custom Veil

Perks of having a friend with a fashion degree. Sam and I have something special planned for my veil to go with my dream dress and we cannot wait to show it to you after my wedding in November!

Click here to learn more about custom veils and fill out the form

Readers, please tell me how Sam made your wedding perfect and unique! And if she hasn’t made something for you yet, what are you getting?!

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. Lauren is based in Kansas CIty and her book “How to Be 23” can be found here

When it comes to wedding planning, there are countless decisions to make and I am here to add to that list!

Not only can you make decisions on what to do with your boutique, what gifts you give to your friends and family, what signature drinks to serve and how to decorate your wedding, but then you have the option to customize them! Don’t know where to start? We have made a list for you of just a few of the things that can be customized before, during and after your wedding! 

Turning your bouquet into resin art

• Cup Coasters 

• A block or shape used solely as decoration 

• Framed 

• Trays 

• Wine stoppers 

• Ring holder 

We have a whole blog post on this: click here

Wedding favors

• Custom labeled wine/champagne bottles 

• Cookies decorated with the wedding date/colors/names 

• Koozies 

• Shop from local bakeries and store in personalized bags

• Sweets with custom labels 

• Custom match books

Need more favor inspo? Click here for the blog post

Signature drink presentations

• Custom drink stirrers 

• Custom cups 

• Drink toppers 

• Water bottles with custom labels 

• Napkins with your name/ wedding date/ artwork

Wedding day decor

• Welcome signs 

• Signature drink signage 

• Escort cards/walls/tables

• Table numbers 

• Guests welcome bags 

• Food or drink menu

If you’re looking to inject more personal touches into your big day/weekend, I’m here to help you with all that artwork and leave the stress behind! Send me a message and let’s get started on custom drink signs, guest books, favors, or live illustration entertainment.

How are you going to customize your wedding?

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

If you’ve been a long-time follower of this blog, you know that we’re ALL ABOUT mementos. But, we’re also about repurposing too. I mean, you poured a lot of time, energy, and money into this wedding, you might as well be able to keep something from it besides your new spouse!

You’ve probably already heard about options for preserving your gown, but what about your wedding bouquet? There’s so many creative options for making it a timeless piece so let’s dive in:

1. pressed in a frame

I recently met Hana Willow Design at a wedding show and was immediately obsessed with her work. Did you know you could get your entire bouquet dry pressed into a glass frame to hang on your wall? To me, this is the best keepsake for your beautiful florals. Don’t want a hanging piece? That’s fine too! Artists like HWD can also take small pieces from your bouquet and turn them into pendants

Note: I did not get paid for this plug, I’m just genuinely obsessed with her work!

2. put in resin

There are approximately 1 million different ways to use resin, but here are a few ideas for your florals:

• In a block: a way to keep the flowers 3D and makes for a gorgeous focal decor piece. There are so many size and shape options, you’re bound to find one that will work in your home

• Coasters: get some of your smaller flowers pressed in or do one big flower for the whole piece, it’s totally up to you

• Jewelry: what a beautiful and unique way to keep your special bouquet with you on a regular basis! If you’re someone who prefers something “functional” over decor, this option is perfect for you

3. a 3d frame

If pressing your voluminous bouquet flat is a horrifying concept to you, let me introduce to you a 3D frame. You’re still able to hang it on the wall, but it will have more depth. You can also make it into a table top!

4. Ornaments

There are a couple different ways to go about turning your flowers into an ornament. You can dry them and stuff them into an empty, clear ornament. Or this is another great option for resin if you’d like to press them flat. Just keep in mind that resin objects do get heavy so your ornament will have to stay at a certain size

5. a TERRARIUM

Terrariums aren’t just for living flowers, just dry your bouquet and arrange how you’d like! You could have them in a tall, rounded glass terrarium with a wooden bottom (think ‘Beauty and the Beast’ rose vibes), in an octagon with metal edges, or in an open bowl with rocks or marbles at the bottom. Terrariums are perfect for basically anyone because they come in all shapes and sizes! The options are endless

Florals are a big part of many peoples weddings, so you should be able to do something with them afterwards! The options listed above are all great avenues to explore and be sure to have an idea picked out BEFORE your big day so you can get them over to the right person before the bouquet wilts or browns.

Which preservation option is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

As a bride, I know how many little details go into creating your wedding day. My mom likes to remind me that guests won’t remember 90% of these details that I started obsessing over well over a year before the wedding. She is probably correct, but we all know there are a few KEY parts of a wedding that, if gone wrong, guests will remember well after the DJ plays “you don’t have to go home, but you can’t stay here”. Let’s talk about them now, so your guests won’t have to talk about them later. 

1. Uncomfortable chairs

   This is one I am having a hard time with because DID YOU KNOW renting chair cushions is just about the same price as renting the chair?! This is mind blowing to me. My initial thought was to skimp on the cushions because realistically I want people up and dancing or mingling all night, but after having to sit in a chiavari chair for a meeting recently, I’m going to splurge for the cushions. Don’t waste your time like me, just get the cushions. Your guests are going to have to sit through your lovey dovey vows and listen to your little sister’s speech in those chairs, don’t make their experience any more uncomfortable. 

2. Cold food

   There has not been a single wedding where guests sit down for dinner and think “wow, I could care less about what is about to be served to me.” Usually the cocktail hour food is just a little teaser for your hunger levels after spending half of your day getting ready, traveling to the venue, and sitting through the ceremony. Whether you have a buffet or a plated meal, the most important part will be making sure the guests bite into a nice hot bite of food. You can cover up even the most mediocre large group catering with the perfect steamy plate.  

3. Not serving alcohol

   Ok, Ok, OK I hear you! Alcohol is expensive, your church doesn’t believe in it, or you personally believe that your life is better without it. All of this is correct! But that will not stop your coworkers/family/friends from complaining on Monday morning about how they went to a dry wedding on Saturday night and it was the longest reception of their life. Unless you are truly only inviting guests that are of the same beliefs as you, I’d recommend at least having beer and wine available for guests who may want to partake in spicing up the party just a bit. 

4. A (too) long ceremony

   Growing up Catholic, I understand how long some ceremonies can get! These are the moments where you share your love for your partner and vow to stand by them forever. There is an argument for stating that this is actually the entire reason you have brought all of your favorite friends and family together. But let’s be honest with each other here, they showed up to celebrate you with food, drinks, and good music. That being said, sitting still for over 30 minutes is very hard, especially if it’s in an uncomfortable seat (see above!). Try to keep your ceremony to only the most meaningful necessities! A great way to do this is reading your personalized vows to each other during your first look and keep the ceremony more simple (this also is a great option for anyone with public speaking jitters).

5. Extreme weather

   Unfortunately this is one part of your wedding that is out of your hands, but there are ways to prepare for extreme weather! For the heat make sure to have water and fans for guests when they arrive (shade if you’re outdoors and a venue with AC for indoors). For cold weather make sure to add space heaters to your budget. You can always take them off your rental the week of your wedding if the weather ends up being nicer than expected. If any events are outside, cozy blankets make great favors! Everyone think of me in November in Kentucky as I pray to not experience the extreme cold and make my guests miserable. 

Have you experienced any of these misfortunes at weddings recently?? Give us all the tea!

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. Lauren is based in Kansas CIty and her book “How to Be 23” can be found here

Every bachelorette party is different, but the concept of a girls weekend never gets old. Picking a party theme has many uses including making packing easier for everyone attending, keeping the group together while out, and of course you can't forget how good the Instagram posts will look while everyone is dressed on theme! If you need inspiration for your bachelorette party, we've got you covered with a few ideas:

Last disco

Who doesn't love a disco ball right now? This is a fun excuse to dress in all of the sparkles and flared pants you can find! On trend right now: “Disco cowgirl”. Just add a cowboy hat and/or boots, maybe a little fringe, with your sparkle and you’re good to go!

Locations suggestions: NYC, Vegas, Nashville, Austin, LA

Final Sail Before the Veil

Having a girls day on a boat somewhere for your bachelorette? This is the perfect time to wear your nautical blues and whites while pretending you know how to sail the blue seas (or maybe you’re one of those cool people that actually do)

Locations suggestions: Miami or Key West, Cape Cod, San Diego, the Hamptons, Martha’s Vineyard

Hoedown Throwdown

Hannah Montana anyone (or Shania Twain for my true 90’s babes)?? Go line dancing with your girls, but not before turning your jean shorts into Daisy Dukes! Don't forget your flannel to keep you warm on the late night out

Locations suggestions: Nashville, Dallas, Charleston, San Antonio

Roaring 20’s

A personal favorite. Pull out some fringe and drink the bathtub gin or moonshine before heading to a speakeasy for the night. This works best for a bride in her 20s excited to take the next step in life (marriage!)

Locations suggestions: NYC, New Orleans, LA, Boston

Boho Bach Bash

If the bride searched for "different, unique, or boho” wedding dresses, then this is the theme for you.  Each person can decide on their own personal version of boho and run with it for the weekend

Locations suggestions: Palm Springs, Scottsdale, LA, Savannah

No matter where you choose (or whether you’re doing one night vs a weekend), just make sure to have your favorite people with you and you’ll have the time of your life. What bachelorette theme will you be using for your wedding?

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

Custom client sketches created for Joy Abendmode Bridal

Many designers are seeing that even within their collections, brides all have unique needs with their wedding dresses. Customization options are typically the answer for “this dress is perfect but…” when dress shopping.  We all have parts of our bodies that we would prefer to show off and parts that we would like to not call attention to and your wedding dress should be the perfect balance of your style and comfort. The option of customizing your gown will also allow for you to have a unique twist on the samples’ style. Today we wanted to tell you about some of the standard customization options you will see while wedding dress shopping so keep reading!

Lined vs unlined

Many bodices (and some skirts!) on bridal gowns right now are sheer or unlined. This is to give the illusion of a smaller waistline and to take away some of the bulk that the lining could create. You will most often notice an unlined bodice in an ivory gown as opposed to a dress with a colored underlay like champagne or nude as those colors will blend in with many skin tones

Sparkle tulle vs regular tulle

Adding a light layer of shimmer to gowns through a sparkle tulle within the gown has been popular over the last few years. This can be a love or hate addition to the gown which is why many designers are now making this addition optional in many dresses.

Speaking of tulle, many companies will let you add or remove fabric layers to make the skirt fluffier or more slim. Never hurts to ask right?

Slits

We have been seeing more and more brides ready to show a little leg on their wedding day which means adding slits to all different types of dresses. Being able to have the option of slit or no slit means that you can decide if that is the look for you or not

Note: for more fitted gowns, it’s easier to sew up a slit than it is to create one due to the bit of extra fabric needed. So if you want to make the decision later in alterations, order the gown WITH the slit

adding straps or sleeves

You will see these added to many gowns as brides have over and over again shared a desire to draw attention to her collar bone and away from her arms. One thing to remember is that off the shoulder (or straight) straps can be added to any strapless dress to give it a brand new look. You can even add a cap sleeve or long sleeves to cover your shoulders!

Pro tip: if you want the best of both worlds, make the straps removable and you can take them off when it’s time to party at the reception!

Other popular customizations

• Dress color (most are offered in at least 2 different colorways)

• Raising or lowering of the neckline

• Extending the train

• Adding or removing buttons

• Adding or removing lace/beading

• Adding an overskirt

  Pro tip: it’s not necessarily a customization, but if you’re buying a lace gown and want extra lace for your veil, flower girl dress, or to make sleeves/bolero, be sure to ask how much the designer will sell it by the yard!

At the end of the day, what can or cannot be customized will vary depending on the company. However, your bridal stylist will be an expert in the changes (or there’s always a way for them to inquire) that are possible with the designers you are trying on, so make sure to ask a lot of questions! You might be surprised what can be done.

Have you gone dress shopping yet? What kind of custom changes are you interested in making for your dream dress?

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn