Maid vs. Matron of Honor Duties

Happy April, lovebugs ! Since I recently blogged about the duties of the BEST MAN for all my male readers out there, I figured it`s time to show some love to my ladies on a similar topic --

Maid of Honor vs. Matron of Honor !

First, let`s begin with defining the 2 roles:

* The MAID of Honor is UNMARRIED, and typically has a huge emotional significance (sister, best friend, etc.) to the Bride ! The Maid of Honor stands directly beside the Bride during the ceremony, and holds her bouquet during the exchanging of vows . She should do a periodic check on the Bride`s dress and train throughout the ceremony, and adjust it as needed .

* The MATRON of Honor is MARRiED, and is usually a close friend or relative of the Bride ! The Matron of Honor stands immediately beside the Maid of Honor during the ceremony, so it`s the Bride, the Maid of Honor, the Matron of Honor, and then the remaining Bridesmaids .

Most weddings have one or the other, but it is definitely within the realm of proper etiquette to have both (:

Just as I stated with a Groom-to-be selecting his top candidate to fulfill the "Best Man" role, it is important for the woman/women that the Bride-to-be chooses for the Maid/Matron of Honor role(s) because there are a lot of responsibilities that come with the title(s) . Thus, selecting the individual(s) who can support you emotionally, stand by your side through the thick and thin of wedding planning, and who is able to accept accountability is how you should objectively make your decision(s) .

Now that we`ve cleared those things, let`s move on to the juicy parts, shall we ?!

_DUTiES/RESPONSiBiLiTiES OF THE MAiD/MATRON OF HONOR:

^^ The roles actually don`t vary that much, so if I don`t indicate a particular role to accomplish the task at hand, please assume that the task is interchangeable between the two ! Here we go --

* Be the POiNT OF CONTACT for the rest of your bridesmaids !
-- She should be dependable, reliable, timely, and organized, for she is the primary person responsible for making sure all of your ladies in waiting are on time, on task, and on point for ALL wedding-related events ! "ALL" means wedding-related events activities before and on wedding day .

* Hold the Bride`s bouquet during the wedding ceremony/exchanging of the vows !
-- This role is typically reserved for the MAiD OF HONOR .

* BUSTLE her gown for the reception !
-- The other Bridesmaids should willingly help the Maid/Matron of Honor do this, of course !

* Join the Groom`s Best Man and give a TOAST at your wedding reception !

* BE SUPPORTiVE on wedding day !
-- In addition to providing emotional support, the Maid/Matron of Honor should also be prepared to pitch in on wedding day to keep everything running smoothly and keep the Bride`s nerves under control ! The candidate you select for this position should be prepared to pitch in and help answer phone calls, run last-minute errands (if necessary), and make sure the mingling Bride takes five minutes to sit and eat at the reception ! It sounds funny, but it`s amazing how many Brides forget to eat because they get so caught up in the excitement of the evening and focus more on trying to visit each table and personally thank the guests for attending .

* Assist with the COLLECTiON AND TRANSPORT OF WEDDiNG GiFTS !
-- When the reception ends and the party is over, the last thing the newlyweds are going to be thinking about is wrangling up all their gifts and transporting them back to the hotel/designated home . The Best Man and Maid/Matron of Honor should stay behind and help the family pack up all the gifts for the Bride and Groom .

* Spearhead the planning of THE BRiDAL SHOWER(S) !
-- This role is typically reserved for the MAiD OF HONOR . Be sure to craft up some cute games for guests to play !

* Spearhead the planning of THE BACHELORETTE PARTY !
-- This role is typically reserved for the MAiD OF HONOR . Being a Maid of Honor takes a lot of dedication, but it can`t be all work and no play ! Make sure the Bride-to-Be has a fun night out, BUT keep it classy .

All of your Bridesmaids should be responsible, dependable, flexible, and ready to switch gears at a moment`s notice, but the girl(s) that you choose for the Maid/Matron of Honor slots need to be women that you can truly count on to serve as your right hand . If it`s too hard to make a decision or choosing would make things awkward with the rest of your Bridal party, then consider flanking yourself with Bridesmaids ONLY ! It`s up to you (:

Again --
CHOOSE WiSELY ! ;)

---

See you again on the 15th (:

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"Best Friend" & "Best Man" -- Synonymous or Apples to Oranges ?

Happy 15th and I hope all of you enjoyed your Valentine`s Days ! It`s my 2nd most favorite day of the entire year, and I think of each of you as my Valentine`s . I`m very appreciative of the love that you bring to my life by supporting my blog and my passions, and your support is what makes coming back twice a month so worthwhile :)

Now, for the juicy topic ! MALES, word on the street is that while you`d never publicize it, you do actually read my blogposts . Some of my male sources exposed this secret and since this is the case, I figured I`d start showing the male audience more love in 2012 . So, guys, this post is for you !

When it comes to selecting the wedding party, it isn`t just the Bride-to-Be who gets to have the fun -- the Groom-to-Be needs to handpick men to stand proudly beside him on his wedding day ! On a serious note, what does it all mean ? And most for the key player on the Groom`s wing, the Best Man --

Are "Best Friend" & "Best Man" synonymous ?
-OR-
Is it more like comparing apples to oranges ?

Truthfully, your best friend CAN fill the shoes of being your Best Man, but ONLY IF he understands and is able to fulfill the responsibilities that come along with the title/position !

_DUTiES/RESPONSiBiLiTiES OF THE BEST MAN:

* Be the POiNT OF CONTACT for the rest of your groomsmen !
-- He should be dependable, reliable, timely, and organized, for he is the primary person responsible for making sure all of your men are on time, on task, and on point for ALL wedding-related events ! "ALL" means wedding-related events activities before and on wedding day .

* Give a TOAST at your wedding reception !

* KEEP TRACK OF THE RiNGS !
-- He should be prepared to guard them with his life . This is a HUGE responsibility, which is another reason why the person you choose must be dependable, reliable, timely, and organized .

* BE SUPPORTiVE on wedding day !
-- In addition to providing emotional support, the Best Man should also be prepared to pitch in on wedding day to keep everything running smoothly and keep the Groom`s nerves under control ! Your Best Man should be prepared to pitch in and help answer phone calls, run last-minute errands (if necessary), and keep an eye on your alcohol consumption ;)

* Assist with the COLLECTiON AND TRANSPORT OF WEDDiNG GiFTS !
-- When the reception ends and the party is over, the last thing the newlyweds are going to be thinking about is wrangling up all their gifts and transporting them back to the hotel/designated home . The Best Man should stay behind and help the family pack up all the gifts for the Bride and Groom .

* Spearhead the planning of THE BACHELOR PARTY, DUH !
-- Being a Best Man takes a lot of dedication, but it can`t be all work and no play ! Make sure the Groom-to-Be has a fun night out, BUT keep it classy . No Bride wants a hungover or injured Groom waiting for them at the end of the aisle !

All of your groomsmen need to be responsible, dependable, and willing to pitch in at any given time for whatever you may need, but your Best Man needs to be the BEST candidate of these traits to be the key player you deserve . If your Best Friend embodies all of the qualities that a Best Mn should have, then ask him to be your right-hand man . However, if he is NOT the best choice, it doesn`t mean that your friendship means anything less or that you don`t have love for him, but it`s okay to be selfish if it means that doing so will make your wedding day the best possible day it can be .

So,
CHOOSE WiSELY ! ;)

---

See you on March 1st and I hope you enjoy the rest of your February days !

Until then, please comment or Formspring me ! Mwahhh (:

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♥

Season`s Greetings: Have Yourself A MERRY Little Marriage :)

Happy December 1st, friends! I cannot even believe 2012 is already knocking, but time slows for no man, so all any of us can do is cherish every second we are given. I hope you enjoyed my November triple feature, and please do not forget to

>> PLACE YOUR VOTE ! << Leaving comments beneath my corresponding blogpost is also a great option if you wish to ever give feedback! The final results will be included in December 15th`s post. In light of the Winter season and all of the festive Holidays that are soon to follow, I thought I would follow suit and blog about ...

*WiNTER WEDDiNGS !*

_Winter Wedding
PROS:

* GREATER AVAILABILITY !
>> Winter weddings are not as common as their peak season (Spring/Summer/early Fall) counterparts. However, you have more power to use this to your advantage, as venues are much more likely to be available on your preferred wedding date and time!

* CHEAPER VENUE PRiCiNG !
>> Because winter is a relatively slow season for weddings, venues are likely to be much more accommodating with affordable pricing options. The slower winter season follows the booming wedding season, so venues will really want and need your business during this time of year.

* CHEAPER FLORAL PRiCiNG !
>> There aren`t many flowering plants that thrive in the winter season, and most of the "seasonal florals" that grow in the winter months are relatives of the evergreen. Hollies, evergreens, pines, and pine cones can add really nice textures and originality to bouquets and centerpieces! These floral elements are also less expensive than the colorful blooming plants that are available during other months of the year. You can also incorporate inorganic components, such as sparkly ornaments, glistening crystal, or warm (faux) furs!

* STAND OUT FROM THE REST !
>> Winter is the least common season for weddings, so be unique and go for it!

* GREATER POTENTiAL GUEST ATTENDANCE !
>> Socially, people tend to travel less in the colder months, meaning your guests will have a higher chance of being able to attend your wedding.

* PUT A FESTiVE SPiN ON YOUR COCKTAiL HOUR & SERVE *WARM* DRiNKS !
>> It`s winter and most likely, chilly outside. Why not switch things up and serve warm, festive drinks for the cocktail hour! Choose options that are versatile and alcohol-friendly, like spiced apple cider, hot chocolate, and hot toddies !

_Winter Wedding
CONS:

* WiNTER = [POTENTiAL] WiNTER WEATHER !
>> Please be mindful of this possibility when considering venues for your ceremony, reception, rehearsal dinner, and lodging for your out of town guests. Always better to be safe than sorry, and to try your best to plan for multiple possibilities -- ESPECiALLY the unfavorable ones that have a higher probability of occurring.

* WiNTER = LOTS OF WiNTER HOLiDAYS !
>> Winter is a season that holds many Holidays. Even though you may choose to personally celebrate some over others, you need to plan with your guests in mind. Keep winter holidays at the planning forefront when you are choosing dates and times!

---

Until December 15th, I bid you Season`s Greetings, jolly cheer, and warm hearts.

Until then, please comment or Formspring me! Mwahhh (:

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♥

Wedding Trend Alert -- What`s In A Name ?

Hello again, and to my fellow American loves, I hope each of you enjoyed your Thanksgiving Holidays. Glad to see you survived the Black Friday madness to join me for another installment, and I hope life has treated you well since my last posting on November 15th :)

Much like my previous blogpost, today`s post was sponsored by a conversation with a male friend of mine concerning marriage, last names, and his strong belief that women should assume hyphenated last names upon tying the knot! Honestly, I had never really thought about it before, but nevertheless, I was greatly intrigued by our conversation and the possibilities that exist for newly-married couples` last names.

Like many girls, I realized that I based a lot of my opinions on marriage from the prominent feminine example in my life -- my mother. My mother was married at 26, dropped the middle name given to her at birth, made her maiden name her new middle name, and assumed my father`s last name as her own -- all without the inclusion of the infamous hyphen. Naturally, I was planning to follow suit someday, giving my daughter the middle name that was given to me at birth, either as a first or a middle name. My conversation with my friend prompted much research, and I had no idea that newlyweds, women AND men alike, had so many options! Admittedly, I am not a fan of all of them, but as an aspiring planner, it is my job to remain open-minded and unbiased.

---

So, time to spill the juice!
Here are the trending surname options I stumbled upon:

• Option #1_
Both Parties Use the *Husband`s* Family Name .
>> This option is the most common and widely-used/widely accepted name change option in the USA.

[* iNTERESTiNG FACT: ]

"A recent study [April 2011] in the journal Gender and Society conducted a poll on American`s attitudes about women taking their husband`s surname. Fifty percent of those surveyed would support a law requiring women to take their husband`s last name" (Lucas, 2011).
^^ Absolutely crazy, right ?!

• Option #2_
Both Parties Keep Their Own Birth Names .
>> According to my research, this option is most popular if both the Bride and Groom`s last names hold much historical/social/educational significance. (Hyphenating is also a great option for this scenario.)

• Option #3_
Both Parties Use the *Wife`s* Family Name .
>> This newer-age idea is one I found very interesting, and while I do not know of any couples who have personally chosen this route, it does indeed exist! This option could also be useful if the Bride`s last name holds much historical/social/educational significance, especially if this is not the case for the Groom`s last name. This option relies heavily on a strong foundation from both parties, as this idea is not yet very socially-acceptable, and may receive some ridicule from those who aren`t a fan. However, I say -- be a trendsetter!

[* iNTERESTiNG FACTS: ]

Feminist and suffragette Lucy Stone first introduced this idea in the 1850s. While this idea peaked in the 1990s at 23% and hovered around 18% in 2009, a poll conducted earlier this year by TheKnot revealed that today, only 8% of women are choosing to keep their names (Bindley, 2011).

In March 2007, the legislature in the state of California was scheduled to consider a bill "that would allow men to change their surnames upon marriage as seamlessly as women can. Only seven states now allow a mn who wishes to alter his name after his wedding to do so without going through the laborious, frequently expensive legal process set out by the courts for any name change. Women don`t have to do so" (Friess, 2007).
^^ Since this article was published in 2007, I am not currently aware of the updated legal information. However, I found the issue at hand very interesting and wanted to share.

• Option #4_
Wife Uses BOTH Her Birth Name and Husband`s Family Name, By Making Her Maiden Name Her New Middle Name .
>> This is the option my mother chose, and the one that I had always considered (and still am considering), prior to educating myself for this blogpost. Since the Bride who chooses this option is choosing to drop the middle name she was born with entirely, a nice compromise for Brides would be to pass her middle name down to her female offspring as a first or middle name.

• Option #5_
Both Parties Agree to Hyphenate Their Two Names .
>> An option that is gaining more social acceptance and commonality. Again, a great option if both the Bride and Groom`s last names hold much historical/social/educational significance.

[* iNTERESTiNG FACT: ]

"The case for women changing their name lies with the idea of the couple shifting their identities from being two individuals into a collective unit, while the 30 percent of women who would keep their maiden name want to do so out of a desire for maintaining a personal identity. Hyphenation is the happy medium I guess" (Victorian, 2011).

• Option #6_
Both Parties Agree to Choose An Entirely NEW Name .
>> This option TRULY embraces the idea of compromise and merging two lives into one fold the best. It is also one of the most rare options I came across.
* For example: "Laura Lindstrom + Eric Jankstrom = Laura & Eric JANKSTROM" (Bindley, 2011).

• Other Reasons People Consider When Electing An Aforementioned Option_
* Does the Bride/Groom`s last name sound better ? -- Somewhat superficial, I know, but it is true!
* Is the Bride "the last of a dying breed," or the last living family member able to continue the family name ?
* Has the Bride obtained an extensive professional reputation in her career field under her maiden name ? Changing her last name after marrying could make it difficult for her to try to reestablish herself amongst her colleagues .
* A really interesting article by The New York Times provided an argument for those women who prefer to keep their last names after marriage:

"Women who do not take their husbands` last names tend to be "achievers," according to an American Demographics magazine poll. Fewer than five percent of wives who had only a high school education used something other than their husbands` names, compared with fifteen percent of those with bachelor`s degrees and more than 20 percent of those with post-graduate degrees. [Women who do not take their husbands` last names are] getting married later, usually after starting careers, and are eager to preserve work identities along with any credentials earned under birth names" (Pedersen-Peterson, 2007).

---

• HiSTORiCALLY_
It is actually a common misconception that hyphenating is the default for most couples. In an interesting article I read on YAHOO! News that was published earlier this year, author Stephanie Pappas stated,

"Throughout most of the 1800s and into the 1900s, U.S. common law abided by the doctrine of coverture. Under coverture, a married woman had no rights to her own property or to make contracts in her own name -- nd indeed, she had no right to her own name at all. Her husband took on all legal rights for the couple" (2011).

Thus, the tradition of inheriting the Groom`s last name after marrying became ingrained in the fibers of the American wedding culture.

---

• IN SUMMARY_
Ultimately, the decision is up to the couple. Much thought is put into the naming process, and it is often said that "Children become their namesake." While last names are slightly different, as they are inherited and play heavy roles in the historical stature of the modern family, marriage is about compromise and the formation of a union -- so BOTH parties should work together to come up with a solution that is most comfortable for their bond. Just be sure on which surnames both the Bride and Groom will use legally, professionally, and socially, so everyone is on one accord.

I`d love to hear which of the options I discussed is YOUR favorite! Please,

>> CAST YOUR VOTE HERE! <<

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I hope you enjoyed November`s triple feature! See you lovelies again on Thursday, December 1st!

Until then, please comment or Formspring me! Mwahhh (:

http://www.formspring.me/SequinSoirees

♥

In Search of Your "Something New" ? Check Out These Cool Apps to Bring Your Wedding Into the 21st Century with Ease !

HAPPY OCTOBER and welcome back! Again, words cannot express how much I truly appreciate your support or how much I love being able to share a piece of my heart with you through this medium.

Today`s blogpost is one that I am very excited about, and one that I feel is very relevant. In a world of rapid change and one that places quite a crutch on technology, I`d like to share some apps/software with you that can help bring YOUR wedding into the 21st century.

• Spotlight #1: Martha Stewart`s Cocktails App →

Signature Cocktails are hot and trending like crazy right now, and Martha Stewart`s fun app can help you concoct the perfect way to meld your wedding into a fun, liquid treat! Be it colors or certain flavors you want to incorporate, be your own professional bartender and add that extra little touch for your guests to sip the night away! Cheers to you, newlyweds :)

Your Price: $0.99 for iPhone/iPad

[ http://www.marthastewart.com/cocktails-recipe-app ]


• Spotlight #2: Perfect Table Plan Software →

Sometimes, determining seating arrangements for your reception can create more of a headache than creating your guest list itself! For $29.95, Perfect Table Plan can be your lifesaver. This versatile software can print floor plans with ease, provide you with the flexibility to make last minute changes at the click of a button, doesn`t require internet access, and may accommodate event seating for up to 2000 guests! If you can drag and drop, you can ace this program! I`ll even let you in on a little secret -- caterers and venues probably use this software to impress you with intricate floorplans at your vendor consultations ;) Why not be one step ahead?

Your Price: $29.95:
*Microsoft Windows: 7/Vista/XP/2000 compatible
*Apple: Mac OS X 10.3.9 or later compatible

[ http://www.perfecttableplan.com/index.html ]


• Spotlight #3: MyRegistry.com App →

Okay, so let`s say you`ve already created your wedding registry via physically walking into your favorite stores and playing laser tag with the scanner guns or by selecting items online through your favorite stores` websites -- but there was something you found later that you wanted to add, or something that you changed your mind about and wanted to remove. This app is wonderful because you can add or remove an item from any store, any time, any place! Out and about when you see an item that you want? Just pull up the app on your phone, scan the barcode, and voila! Watching tv and see an item that catches your eye? Log in to your account on your home computer and add it in 5 seconds! This app even lets you know when the item is available for less at another store! We ALL know wedding registries are transient and never truly set in stone, so keep track of all of your needs and wants at the touch of a fingertip!

Your Price: FREE! for iPhone & Android Phones; FREE online account via a computer

[ http://www.myregistry.com/Default.aspx ]


• App #4: Apps by the Knot →

Sooo who doesn`t love theKnot.com or "the Knot" magazine?! Well now, you can carry their tips, forums, planning checklists, and updates wherever you go! If one great KNOT app isn`t enough, check out their wide array of gadgets:

• the Knot iPad App →
View your favorite wedding magazine directly on your iPad!
Your Price: $4.99

• the Knot Wedding911 App →
150+ wedding-related Q&A`s & the ability to post questions for other brides & brides-to-be to answer :)
Your Price: FREE for your iPhone

• the Knot Ultimate Wedding Planner (sponsored by The Registry at Bloomingdales) →
Wedding planning checklists that sync to your online account, budget trackers, wedding dress/cake/hairstyle inspirations, your virtual scrapbook, and access to local vendors in your area!
Your Price: FREE for your iPod/iPad

• the Knot Wedding Dress LookBook (sponsored by Pronovias) →
Find your perfect dress with this great app that allows you to browse dresses and also suggests dresses based on your body type/personality/wedding style!
Your Price: FREE for your iPhone

• the Knot Wedding Hair iPhone App →
Find your perfect wedding day look right here!
Your Price: FREE for your iPhone

While all of these extra nods from technology are fabulous and hugely helpful, don`t get too carried away -- I still want you to want me of course ;)

---

I`ll see you again on October 15th!
Until then, comment or Formspring me!

http://www.formspring.me/SequinSoirees

♥

Wedding Planning Timeline Blitz : 1 WEEK Until "I Do!"

INSTALLMENT VII | Today`s Blitz Focus >>

1 WEEK Until the Big "I Do!"

^^Above Table Number design by // "HennaK Online" | "Cute Bird 1" Design Set

• RECONFIRM SCHEDULES WITH ALL PARTICIPATING VENDORS!

• CREATE A WEDDING DAY CHECKLIST!

→ TIP: Choose someone to bustle your dress, someone to carry your things, someone to be in charge of gifts (especially the enveloped sort), someone to hand out tips, and someone to be the point person for each vendor. (Quoted from Weddings | Real Simple)

• CREATE A TIMELINE for the rehearsal, wedding day, and the reception, and DISTRIBUTE TO WEDDING PARTY/all participants!

→ TIP: Include all contact information, roles/titles, and points-of-contact that you have personally designated to handle specific tasks/monitor specific vendors. Make sure this person agrees to perform the task(s) and has a CLEAR UNDERSTANDING of what you want! If they will be involved with a vendor, it may not be a bad idea to introduce the vendor to your contact beforehand, and give them each other`s contact information!

• PICK UP your WEDDING DRESS and start breaking in your wedding shoes :)

• Check in one last time with the photographer. Supply him or her with a list of moments you want captured on film.

• Set aside checks for the vendors. And put tips in envelopes to be handed out at the event.

• RECONFIRM SPA TREATMENTS & HAIR/NAIL APPOINTMENTS

• Most caterers allow you 72 hours prior to your event to change your order, so PROVIDE them WITH AN UPDATED HEADCOUNT for your reception

• Assemble and distribute the welcome baskets.

• Finalize HONEYMOON PACKING!

I hope you all enjoyed my wedding planning timeline blitz :) Stay tuned for my next blog post, debuting on August 1st. Lastly, TODAY is my 23rd Birthday, so thank you to all who have shown me love! All of you have had a hand in making my day even more amazing and I am Blessed to know you. Thank you for letting me and my passion be a part of your life!

♥

Sources: Personal experience, several event planners I know, and wedding associations (such as the Richmond Bridal Association).

** Additional Source for this blog posting: "Weddings | Real Simple" **

Wedding Planning Timeline Blitz : 2-6 WEEKS Until "I Do!"

INSTALLMENT VI | Today`s Blitz Focus >>

2-6 WEEKS Until the Big "I Do!"

^^Above Table Number design by // "Martha Stewart Weddings"

• Go over RSVPs and contact those who still have yet to respond!

• Confirm headcount for REHEARSAL DINNER

• Schedule and attend your FINAL DRESS FITTING

• Provide caterers with FINAL HEADCOUNT FOR your RECEPTION

• Alleviate some post-wedding stress by PAYING OFF as many FINAL PAYMENTS as possible

• CONFIRM SCHEDULES WITH ALL PARTICIPATING VENDORS

• Finalize SEATING CHARTS (if applicable)

• WRITE your WEDDING VOWS, if this is the route the two of you are choosing to take :)

Tune in tomorrow for the *FINAL* installment in my "Wedding Planning Timeline" Blitz, where we will discuss the planning preparations that should be considered 1 WEEK prior to your wedding day!

♥

Sources: Personal experience, several event planners I know, and wedding associations (such as the Richmond Bridal Association).

** Additional Source for this blog posting: "Weddings | Real Simple" **

Wedding Planning Timeline Blitz : 6-8 WEEKS Until "I Do!"

INSTALLMENT V | Today`s Blitz Focus >>

6-8 WEEKS Until the Big "I Do!"

^^Above Table Number design by // "The Funky Shack Art Studio" | "Distressed Chalkboard" Design Set

• MAIL your wedding INVITATIONS

→ TIP: I recommend as close to 8 weeks out as possible!

• Be prepared to COLLECT/devise a system for collecting your wedding day RSVPs

• Finalize your wedding day MENU

• Schedule and have your FORMAL WEDDING PORTRAITS done by your photographer

• Schedule all SPA, HAIR, MAKEUP, and NAIL APPOINTMENTS

→ TIP: Work with your hair- and make-up stylists to play around with possible wedding-day looks, so that all of you are on the same page BEFORE the big day arrives! This will save everyone time and undue stress in the long run.

• Send WEDDING ANNOUNCEMENT and photo to local newspaper(s)

• Secure final headcount for your REHEARSAL DINNER

• Obtain your MARRIAGE LICENSE

• Plan your BACHELORETTE/BACHELOR PARTY

→ TIP: Don`t get too crazy or stay out too late! We want everyone to arrive on wedding day bushy-tail and bright-eyed, in one piece, rested, refreshed, and 100% ready to take in the wonderful memories of the day you say “I Do!”

Tune in tomorrow for the next installment in my "Wedding Planning Timeline" Blitz, where we will discuss the planning preparations that should be considered 2-6 weeks prior to your wedding day!

♥

Sources: Personal experience, several event planners I know, and wedding associations (such as the Richmond Bridal Association).

Wedding Planning Timeline Blitz : 2-4 Months Until "I Do!"

INSTALLMENT IV | Today`s Blitz Focus >>

2-4 Months Until the Big "I Do!"

^^Above Table Number design by // "By Gina Stationery" | "3D Butterfly Stationery" Design

• Shop for WEDDING RINGS and engrave them

• Schedule a cake tasting appointment, select your preferred bakery, and order your WEDDING CAKE!

• Plan and book your WEDDING DAY TRANSPORTATION

• Order WEDDING FAVORS for your guests

• Order additional ROOM DECORATIONS to enhance your rental equipment, if necessary

• Purchase GIFTS for wedding attendants (bridesmaids, groomsmen, ushers, greeters, etc.)

• Check on whatever requirements are in place for obtaining your MARRIAGE LICENSE

• Check with your doctor to see what VACCINATIONS/HEALTH PRECAUTIONS need to be made for your honeymoon destination, and schedule those appointments accordingly

• Optional – Consider a WILL/PRENUPTIAL AGREEMENT

Tune in tomorrow for the next installment in my "Wedding Planning Timeline" Blitz, where we will discuss the planning preparations that should be considered 6-8 weeks prior to your wedding day!

♥

Sources: Personal experience, several event planners I know, and wedding associations (such as the Richmond Bridal Association).

Wedding Planning Timeline Blitz : 4-6 Months Until "I Do!"

I hope all of you had a wonderful weekend, and I know that I thoroughly enjoyed my time with family, friends, and great fireworks for the 4th of July festivities! My sincere apologies for the unintentional hiatus in my blogging blitz, but hopefully you don`t love me any less! Let`s continue, shall we?

INSTALLMENT III | Today`s Blitz Focus >>

4-6 Months Until the Big "I Do!"

^^Above Table Number design by // "Royal Steamline" | "Two Ring Circus" Design

• Start shopping for bride and groom WEDDING GIFTS to exchange before the ceremony

• RESERVE ceremony and reception RENTAL ITEMS

→ TIP: Check with both venues first and meet with their coordinator/caterer to see what type of selection they have on-site before purchasing your own rental items. This could save you time AND money!

• Finalize your GUEST LIST

→ TIP: Remember, if you are having budgeting issues, "trimming the fat" here could really help, as it will greatly reduce quantities across the board for food, favors, rental items, centerpieces, etc. Hopefully, however, you will have already taken care of this dilemma prior to sending out your "Save the Dates" 6-8 months before your big day. Otherwise, you may have to do some UNinviting, which is never fun for you or for your guests :(

• Select and order INVITATIONS / STATIONERY

• ADDRESS your INVITATIONS … or hire a printer/calligrapher if that look works better for the wedding theme or ambiance you are seeking to create for you and your guests :)

→ TIP: Personally, I would send them out closer to the 2-month mark.

• Select and reserve your REHEARSAL DINNER VENUE

• If applicable and this is something that you and your partner have discussed – and allotted for in your budget ;) – arrange ACCOMMODATIONS FOR your OUT OF TOWN GUESTS

→ TIP: Ask what kinds of specials/rates the hotel is offering for groups or larger parties. Also, remember to cancel any rooms that you no longer need prior to the hotel`s cancellation date to avoid getting charged for empty rooms! Ask for the hotel`s cancellation policy IN WRITING to be on the safe side.

• Start planning your HONEYMOON!

• Create your WEDDING REGISTRY :)

Tune in tomorrow for the next installment in my "Wedding Planning Timeline" Blitz, where we will discuss the planning preparations that should be considered 2-4 months prior to your wedding day!

♥

Sources: Personal experience, several event planners I know, and wedding associations (such as the Richmond Bridal Association).

Wedding Planning Timeline Blitz : 6-8 Months Until "I Do!"

INSTALLMENT II | Today`s Blitz Focus >>

6-8 Months Until the Big "I Do!"

• Send out your SAVE THE DATES

→ TIP: Send these to those that you want to come to your wedding, including your Bridal Party and any guests who you want to invite that have given you a verbal RSVP. This ensures that everyone is on the same page. To keep your guest list to a bearable number, only send your "Save the Dates" to those specific individuals you want to come to your wedding -- instead of the entire world!

• Select FLOWER GIRL`S DRESS, shoes, and accessories

→ TIP: Now would also be a great time to consider any dresses/suits, shoes, and accessories for any attendants that will be in your wedding, such as readers or hostesses who will seat your guests/pass out programs.

• Schedule all dress/tuxedo FITTINGS and their corresponding delivery dates

• Select and reserve your FLORIST!

• Select and reserve your CATERER

→ TIP: Before selecting a Caterer, PLEASE feel free to request to view a portfolio of his/her work, schedule a tasting, and ask locals in the area about to get the legitimate scoop on the (dis)satisfaction of his/her business!

• Select and reserve your MUSICIANS

→ TIP: This includes musicians for the ceremony, as well as musicians/a DJ for the reception. If you intend on using a CD/MP3 player to supply your ceremony music, please check with your venue first to see which music format they prefer and ask to see if they will provide someone on-site to play the music for you, or if you will need to designate one of your guests to do it! Make sure that the person you assign this task to is present at the wedding rehearsal to prevent any major hiccups on your big day! Your music is a very important piece of your wedding.

• Select and reserve your WEDDING NIGHT BRIDAL SUITE

Tune in tomorrow for the next installment in my "Wedding Planning Timeline" Blitz, where we will discuss the planning preparations that should be considered 4-6 months prior to your wedding day!

♥

Sources: Personal experience, several event planners I know, and wedding associations (such as the Richmond Bridal Association).

Wedding Planning Timeline Blitz : 9+ Months Until "I Do!"

HAPPY JULY 1ST, MY LOVES (: July is one of my favorite months each year because it is my Birthday month -- Power to my fellow CANCERS out there who share the most fun sign of the Zodiac! In honor of my Birthday, I decided to do something a little different this month with this initial July blogpost! There are thousands of wedding planning timelines floating around the world, and in all honesty, they are all fairly subjective! Well, I wanted to share with you MY PERSONAL WEDDING PLANNING TIMELINE, crafted from observing timelines of others, but primarily from my own experiences! Instead of 1 giant blogpost, I am jazzing it up by doing 9 daily installments, starting with today! So for the next 8 days, I hope you`ll enjoy my puzzle pieces for the perfect timeline!

So you just got engaged -- CONGRATULATIONS, Lovebirds! Once you come down from the high of the engagement, you now realize that it`s time to buckle down and start preparing for your wedding day! With so many elements and ideas, it can be overwhelming to know what to tackle first! So, where shall we begin? Let`s start from the engagement and work our way up to your wedding day!

INSTALLMENT I: Today`s Blitz Focus >>

9+ Months Until the Big "I Do!"

• Begin your WEDDING BINDER

→ TIP: Keep clippings from magazines, running lists of ideas as they pop into your head, calendars, and any bits of inspiration in here! It will make your life ten times easier and will help you better maintain your central focus when planning.

• Select your wedding DATE

→ TIP: Be sure to take seasons, federal/religious Holidays, and the time of day into consideration before solidifying! Have a backup option planned in case your venues are booked on your 1st date of choice.

• Determine your BUDGET

→ TIP: Allow yourself MINIMAL and sensible wiggle-room, and then STICK TO IT! Check it often, update it to the "T", and craft it from the beginning with care so that wiggle-room is solely a last resort. Your budget provides the foundation for not only your wedding day, but also your first days as husband and wife, hopefully falling more in love with each passing day instead of consuming yourselves with worry from getting out of debt for your beautifully-exorbitant "I Do`s."

• Hire a wedding CONSULTANT

→ TIP: (i.e. your`s truly hehe)

• Consolidate your GUEST LIST

→ TIP: David Tutera once spoke on this topic and said that your wedding day is often such a beautiful blur, that you probably won`t be able to remember each and every person who was or was not able to help celebrate your special day – until you look at the photographs! If you`ll regret not having their presence in your wedding photos years down the road, invite them. The easiest way to lighten the budget is to trim the guest list!

• Select and reserve your CEREMONY VENUE

• Select and reserve your OFFICIANT

→ TIP: Make sure you inquire to see if wedding counseling is required by your Officiant of choice!

• Select and reserve your RECEPTION SITE

• Select and order BRIDAL GOWN (& accessories, of course!)

• Determine your COLOR SCHEME

• Send an ENGAGEMENT ANNOUNCEMENT with a cute photo to your local newspaper

• Order PASSPORT/VISA for the honeymoon or your destination wedding!

• Select and reserve your PHOTOGRAPHER

• Select your WEDDING PARTY

Tune in tomorrow for the next installment in my "Wedding Planning Timeline" Blitz, where we will discuss the planning preparations that should be considered 6-8 months prior to your wedding day!

♥

Sources: Personal experience, several event planners I know, and wedding associations (such as the Richmond Bridal Association).