Every detail of a wedding is important, right down to who is wearing what. When it comes to the wardrobe of the mother of the bride and the mother of the groom, who wears what?
The bride is taken care of. The perfect wedding gown is bought, and the veil and accessories are purchased. Now, what should you wear?
Mother of the Bride
According to wedding etiquette books, the mother of the bride will be the first to select the dress she wears for her daughters wedding. Of course, this dress needs not to be of the colors white, ivory, or champagne! Also, it is wise for the bride's mother to stay away from black (remember, wedding—not funeral) and red, which can be deemed as too flashy of a color.
The best thing a mother of the bride can do before dress shopping is talk to her daughter first about the bride's idea of what she wants you to wear. Some bride's love the “matchy-matchy” look where she wants her mother to wear a similar dress and color as those of her bridesmaids. Other brides may want dresses to at least stay in the same color family.
Some brides are picky, others are not. Do your best to stick to her wishes when deciding on your dress. Consider her feelings while also buying a dress that you love as well.
Mother of the Groom
The mother of the groom follows the mother of the bride when choosing her dress. After the bride's mother has picked her dress and color, she will tell the other of the groom, who will then pick an outfit that is complimentary in color and style of the dress chosen by the mother of the bride. (Yup, if the bride's mother's dress is short, guess what? So is yours!)
Also, in terms of color, the groom's mother should not wear exactly the same color as the bridesmaids and the mother of the bride, but a color that compliments them both.
Remember . . .
Whether you are the mother of the bride or of the groom, one thing is for sure—the bride should still be the center of it all.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Don't Forget!
The Chattanooga Bridal Show is July 25th from 12 to 4pm! So come join us this Sunday to not only see yours truly, but other wedding vendors from the Chattanooga area. Hope to see you there!
Friday, June 25, 2010
Chattanooga Premier Bridal Show
It's that time again!
The Chattanooga Premier Bridal Show is coming to town. Go ahead and mark your calendars to attend on July 25, 2010, from 12 to 4pm. Presented by Chattanooga Premier Bride Magazine, a wide variety of vendors from all around the tri-state area will be there. All brides can benefit from this show no matter where you are in the planning process!
If you are still looking for vendors for your big day there will be great opportunities to see some of the areas greatest showcases as well as take advantage of special show packages and discounts.
We hope to see you there!!!!
The Chattanooga Premier Bridal Show is coming to town. Go ahead and mark your calendars to attend on July 25, 2010, from 12 to 4pm. Presented by Chattanooga Premier Bride Magazine, a wide variety of vendors from all around the tri-state area will be there. All brides can benefit from this show no matter where you are in the planning process!
If you are still looking for vendors for your big day there will be great opportunities to see some of the areas greatest showcases as well as take advantage of special show packages and discounts.
We hope to see you there!!!!
Thursday, June 10, 2010
It's His Day Too!
When planning your big day, do not forget about that important person you're vowing to never leave for the rest of your life—the groom.
In the planning of the wedding, the groom's role is ever-changing. While in the "good old days" it was primarily the role of the mother of the bride to plan the wedding with some input from her daughter, the bride, the groom's participation is quickly making a comeback. From setting the date and time of the wedding to participating in the selection of music and entertainment, the groom is sharing his opinion, which should matter and be taken into consideration.
Where He Should Get Involved
While most grooms will tell their future brides to just tell them where and when to show up, there are grooms out there who would like to feel included—but not in every area.
Here are three areas where you groom might like to be an active participant:
• Choosing best man, groomsmen, and ushers
• Selection of wedding attire
• Taste-testings
The Groom's Responsibilities
Financial responsibilities also fall on the groom and his family. Some of the his responsibilities include:
• Pay the fees for the marriage license (In Tennessee, this must be done within 30 days of the wedding)
• Buy engagement ring
• Pay the fees of the person presiding over the ceremony
• Plan the honeymoon months ahead
• Purchase gifts for the ushers and best man to be given at the rehearsal dinner
• Work with the bride and family members to create a guest list
However, one of the biggest (and most important) responsibility of the groom is to ensure his bachelor party does NOT occur the night before the ceremony so that he is able to SHOW UP at the wedding very well rested and on time!!!!
In the planning of the wedding, the groom's role is ever-changing. While in the "good old days" it was primarily the role of the mother of the bride to plan the wedding with some input from her daughter, the bride, the groom's participation is quickly making a comeback. From setting the date and time of the wedding to participating in the selection of music and entertainment, the groom is sharing his opinion, which should matter and be taken into consideration.
Where He Should Get Involved
While most grooms will tell their future brides to just tell them where and when to show up, there are grooms out there who would like to feel included—but not in every area.
Here are three areas where you groom might like to be an active participant:
• Choosing best man, groomsmen, and ushers
• Selection of wedding attire
• Taste-testings
The Groom's Responsibilities
Financial responsibilities also fall on the groom and his family. Some of the his responsibilities include:
• Pay the fees for the marriage license (In Tennessee, this must be done within 30 days of the wedding)
• Buy engagement ring
• Pay the fees of the person presiding over the ceremony
• Plan the honeymoon months ahead
• Purchase gifts for the ushers and best man to be given at the rehearsal dinner
• Work with the bride and family members to create a guest list
However, one of the biggest (and most important) responsibility of the groom is to ensure his bachelor party does NOT occur the night before the ceremony so that he is able to SHOW UP at the wedding very well rested and on time!!!!
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
I Do, Take Two!
Almost 50% of marriages today involve someone who has been married before. Therefore, whether this is your second or fifth marriage, it is your wedding day and a brand new start. While some brides may wonder if they should or should not walk down the aisle in a white dress, others may second-guess a church wedding. No matter what you choose, the end result should be the same—having the wedding of your dreams!
The Etiquette of a Second-Time Bride
The number one goal—enjoy yourself! While this may not be your first wedding, this is your first wedding to this person. The main focus is you and your love. Quit worrying about what is right and wrong. The wedding world has changed so much to where you have fewer less do’s and should do’s and more freedom. Yes, the old rule of thumb is you can’t wear white, but now-a-days, your wedding dress—even for the second time—should reflect you, your personality and fashion-sense. If that means white, so be it!
The second goal, if it applies, should be to involve the children—yours, his, or both. Depending on their age, this could mean having them play a part in the wedding as a flower girl, ring bearer, junior bridesmaid, groomsman, maid of honor, etc. Another common idea is to also involve the children in the taking of the vows. Instead of having a vow as husband and wife to honor and love each other in sickness and in health until they day you die, a family vow should also take place. This can be as simple as stating that you will love and honor you stepchildren as if they were your own.
To Register or Not to Register?
Yes! Register! It is your wedding! If you have a second child, you register for baby items again—why not for a second wedding? The people you invite and who come to your wedding are going to want to give you a gift. So you already have your pots and pans. Do you and your fiancé enjoy camping? Then register for camping equipment. Or, if there is nothing really you want or need, register for a honeymoon. There are now sites that help you, such as travelersjoy.com and honeyfund.com, which allow wedding guests to help contribute to the cost of the honeymoon.
Bottom line, whether you are a second-time or first-time bride, all that matters is that this is a joyful celebration of new beginnings, an occasion to celebrate with your friends and family, and a second chance for you to get your happily ever after.
The Etiquette of a Second-Time Bride
The number one goal—enjoy yourself! While this may not be your first wedding, this is your first wedding to this person. The main focus is you and your love. Quit worrying about what is right and wrong. The wedding world has changed so much to where you have fewer less do’s and should do’s and more freedom. Yes, the old rule of thumb is you can’t wear white, but now-a-days, your wedding dress—even for the second time—should reflect you, your personality and fashion-sense. If that means white, so be it!
The second goal, if it applies, should be to involve the children—yours, his, or both. Depending on their age, this could mean having them play a part in the wedding as a flower girl, ring bearer, junior bridesmaid, groomsman, maid of honor, etc. Another common idea is to also involve the children in the taking of the vows. Instead of having a vow as husband and wife to honor and love each other in sickness and in health until they day you die, a family vow should also take place. This can be as simple as stating that you will love and honor you stepchildren as if they were your own.
To Register or Not to Register?
Yes! Register! It is your wedding! If you have a second child, you register for baby items again—why not for a second wedding? The people you invite and who come to your wedding are going to want to give you a gift. So you already have your pots and pans. Do you and your fiancé enjoy camping? Then register for camping equipment. Or, if there is nothing really you want or need, register for a honeymoon. There are now sites that help you, such as travelersjoy.com and honeyfund.com, which allow wedding guests to help contribute to the cost of the honeymoon.
Bottom line, whether you are a second-time or first-time bride, all that matters is that this is a joyful celebration of new beginnings, an occasion to celebrate with your friends and family, and a second chance for you to get your happily ever after.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Wedding Food Trends
When it comes to food, there are several options to choose from to make your day special. The first step is to choose what style of meal you will serve - a seated meal, a buffet, heavy hors d'oeuvres, etc. After that decision has been made, it's time to start thinking about the menu. This can be tricky and somewhat stressful while you attempt to please everyone on your guest list.
Keep in mind if any of your guests has a food allergy or a dietary limitation, like vegetarians. If you are having a buffet or appetizers, just choose a couple items that will be filling and delicious for your more picky eaters. Keep your personal preferences in mind, as well as the majority of your guests, while choosing your menu - if there are going to be a lot of children at the wedding, make sure that the food they have to choose from will be appetizing for them; if most of your guests grew up in the South, opt for a more "home-cooked" feel instead of sushi or caviar.
The following are some hot trends in wedding foods that brides are just eating up!
A lot of couples right now are choosing to replace a meal with cocktails and appetizers. Side note - be sure to inform your guests before the wedding day so that they won't show up hungry and be expecting a large meal.
Take a new spin on an old classic by serving pretty much any dish in miniature portions. Try tiny cheeseburger sliders, soup shots, one-bite nachos or Asian dumplings.
Having some kind of dessert station at your reception is a big hit. Think about having a candy bar or a build-your-own-sundae station.
Many couples are taking the more health-conscience and/or organic approach when deciding on a wedding menu. A sushi station is a more expensive option, but offers a delectable and impressive option to your guests. 
Serving a late-night snack at the end of your reception is a fun way to surprise your guests and keep the party going. You might want to offer up a childhood favorite like pizza, hot dogs or popcorn; or go for something like milk and cookies - the perfect pre-bedtime snack.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Wedding Cakes
One area that you will be able to let your creative juices flow is in the design of your wedding cake. Traditionally, wedding cakes have been white, tiered, and topped with an ornamental figure of a bride and groom. But more and more we are seeing unique ideas and new trends hitting the shelves at our favorite bake shops.
The Cake Topper
Cake Recipes
Your wedding cake isn't all about looks - feel free to delight your guests with a special treat by working with different taste combinations. If you are going with a simple white cake batter, choose a yummy filling to spice it up - maybe lemon or mocha flavored cream. Chocolate fudge cake, carrot cake, or even cheesecake have become popular for standing in as a traditional wedding cake. Just remember to choose something that you and your guests will enjoy - make it personal to your day!
Cake Alternatives
Cupcakes have a made a huge entrance into the world of wedding desserts. Many people are choosing to have cupcakes or individual dessert cakes instead of having a traditional three-tiered cake. This is a fun and creative take on the wedding cake idea. One benefit of serving cupcakes is that you can choose to have several different flavors that your guests can choose from. You can choose to dress them up and present them in a way that would give the same dramatic effect of having a large cake. Check out these examples:
Cake Designs
More and more, wedding cakes have become an element to express creativity and to become a statement piece at your event. Recently, cake shops have been able to stray away from the norm and create not only a scrumptious dessert, but also a really fun and exciting work of art. If you're someone who likes to be unique and one-of-a-kind, consider asking your cake maker to take it to the next level for your wedding! Give them your ideas and see what you both can come up with.
As always, just remember to have fun with your cake and choose something that you will love!
When it comes to the cake topper, it turns out that there are several businesses and websites dedicated to selling unique adornments. Be sure to check out this site for tons of ideas and products! You can choose to go the traditional route with a loving bride and groom; you can add some humor to your cake decor with a funny topper; customize your cake with a monogram; or even choose something completely different to make your cake stand out. Here are a few examples:
Cake Recipes
Your wedding cake isn't all about looks - feel free to delight your guests with a special treat by working with different taste combinations. If you are going with a simple white cake batter, choose a yummy filling to spice it up - maybe lemon or mocha flavored cream. Chocolate fudge cake, carrot cake, or even cheesecake have become popular for standing in as a traditional wedding cake. Just remember to choose something that you and your guests will enjoy - make it personal to your day!
Cake Alternatives
Cupcakes have a made a huge entrance into the world of wedding desserts. Many people are choosing to have cupcakes or individual dessert cakes instead of having a traditional three-tiered cake. This is a fun and creative take on the wedding cake idea. One benefit of serving cupcakes is that you can choose to have several different flavors that your guests can choose from. You can choose to dress them up and present them in a way that would give the same dramatic effect of having a large cake. Check out these examples:
Cake Designs
More and more, wedding cakes have become an element to express creativity and to become a statement piece at your event. Recently, cake shops have been able to stray away from the norm and create not only a scrumptious dessert, but also a really fun and exciting work of art. If you're someone who likes to be unique and one-of-a-kind, consider asking your cake maker to take it to the next level for your wedding! Give them your ideas and see what you both can come up with.
As always, just remember to have fun with your cake and choose something that you will love!
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Money Saving Ideas
We all know weddings are expensive, but here a few tips to make sure you (and your family) don't go broke!
- Consider having your wedding in the off-season: January - March and during late fall
- Rent tuxes or suits instead of buying them for the bridal party
- Shop for your bridesmaid's dresses during prom season and after New Year's - no one said you have to purchase these dresses at a bridal shop!
- Silk flowers can be a great alternative to fresh flowers for use in your decorations. Plus, you can re-use them for future events
- To make your invitations less expensive, do them yourself. There are a number of paper stores and websites available where you can find original ideas and ways to make your own invitations
- Buy your own hair accessories; don't leave it up to the stylist to supply them
- The fancier the food at the your reception is, the more expensive it will be. Stick to familiar foods and only choose fruits and vegetables that are in season
- Having a champagne toast? Limit the champagne to you and your bridal party
- Holding your reception in a hotel has a lot of good points. They usually decorate, offer professional services like a DJ, can cater well to large groups, and will most likely include the honeymoon suite with discounted rooms for out-of-town guests
- DJs cost less than a live band
- Remember also to utilize your friends and family who have special skills. Maybe your sister is great with hair and makeup, or your aunt is a florist. If you have a friend who is great with a camera, ask them to do your photos - this will save you a great deal on hiring someone for the whole day and purchasing a package
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Wedding Favors
Happy Valentine's Day everyone!
We've all been to weddings that offer a wedding favor - a small gift to each guest that we get to take home at the end of the night. This is a great way to give a little something back to the friends and family who have attended your celebration. Traditionally, most weddings have them. Here are a few tips to consider.
Giving wedding favors that have meaning to you as a couple is a sweet gesture to make your guests remember your wedding and be able to tie the memory of that occasion to the newlyweds. If you have decided to give wedding favors just to give them, you might want to think again. Think of all those weddings you have gone to that give a pouch of M&Ms or jordan almonds. When you got home, did you set it aside in memory of a great celebration of love? Chances are, probably not.
Why not try something unique and personal to your day? Choose a favor that mimics the theme of your wedding; or maybe something that you and your fiance have in common and is a major part of your relationship. Here are a few ideas:
Having a beach-themed wedding? Try a personalized seashell or starfish.
Are you and your fiance wine connoisseurs? How about a corkscrew and/or bottle stopper?
For a garden wedding, think about giving some flower seeds in little pots or a hanging bird seed design for your guest's gardens.
Is your heritage important to you? Share that part of your lives with your guests. Irish? Share your luck! Japanese? Give your guests something they can use time and time again.
The possibilities are endless! Just be creative and make sure that your favors hold a special meaning to you. Don't feel pressured into giving a wedding favor if you just feel the need to do so. It can end up being another source of stress on your big day as well as an added expense. Unless it is a gift that means something to you, your relationship, or your guests - feel free to opt out. None of your guests will feel slighted. After all, you just threw them the party of a lifetime!
We've all been to weddings that offer a wedding favor - a small gift to each guest that we get to take home at the end of the night. This is a great way to give a little something back to the friends and family who have attended your celebration. Traditionally, most weddings have them. Here are a few tips to consider.
Giving wedding favors that have meaning to you as a couple is a sweet gesture to make your guests remember your wedding and be able to tie the memory of that occasion to the newlyweds. If you have decided to give wedding favors just to give them, you might want to think again. Think of all those weddings you have gone to that give a pouch of M&Ms or jordan almonds. When you got home, did you set it aside in memory of a great celebration of love? Chances are, probably not.
Why not try something unique and personal to your day? Choose a favor that mimics the theme of your wedding; or maybe something that you and your fiance have in common and is a major part of your relationship. Here are a few ideas:
Having a beach-themed wedding? Try a personalized seashell or starfish.
Are you and your fiance wine connoisseurs? How about a corkscrew and/or bottle stopper?
For a garden wedding, think about giving some flower seeds in little pots or a hanging bird seed design for your guest's gardens.
Is your heritage important to you? Share that part of your lives with your guests. Irish? Share your luck! Japanese? Give your guests something they can use time and time again.
The possibilities are endless! Just be creative and make sure that your favors hold a special meaning to you. Don't feel pressured into giving a wedding favor if you just feel the need to do so. It can end up being another source of stress on your big day as well as an added expense. Unless it is a gift that means something to you, your relationship, or your guests - feel free to opt out. None of your guests will feel slighted. After all, you just threw them the party of a lifetime!
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Hot Colors for Spring and Summer!
Choosing a color scheme for your wedding is an important detail that can take your big day from average to unforgettable! The colors you choose for your wedding can be powerful tools – they can reinforce your chosen theme or even stand on their own to make a distinct statement. Bright, bold colors are the major contenders in spring and summer looks this year. Imagine passionate colors ranging anywhere from jewel tones to soft, pale tints. Think of adding splashes of intense color against a neutral background for a modern look, or pair together two or three bold colors for a startlingly cheerful atmosphere. Whether you’re planning a sweet garden wedding or a tropical beach ceremony, these fresh, vivid colors will make your day extraordinary!
Consider these color ideas:
Turquoise and other shades of beachy blues are all-time favorites this time of year. Pair with corals and peaches for a cool, tropical atmosphere.
Yellows, pinks, and purples are solid choices if you want that burst of color. These colors really have a chance to pop when set against a background of white, ivory, navy or black.
Surfacing repeatedly this season is gray. A light, silvery gray can be used as an accent color with darker shades, but makes quite a modern, romantic statement when used as a neutral backdrop to showcase a splash of color.
Beige, taupe and cream are classic wedding colors that will never go out of style and make for a muted, romantic color palate.
When choosing your wedding colors, remember that integration is key. Once you decide on which shades you want, carry them throughout each area of your day. Introduce your theme with your invitations; have your bridal party show them off with bridesmaid dresses and matching vests for the groomsmen; add an interesting edge to your cake; and let them shine with the décor at your ceremony and reception. Just remember to have fun with your choices and surround yourself with an atmosphere of excitement and relaxation on your big day!
Consider these color ideas:
Turquoise and other shades of beachy blues are all-time favorites this time of year. Pair with corals and peaches for a cool, tropical atmosphere.
Yellows, pinks, and purples are solid choices if you want that burst of color. These colors really have a chance to pop when set against a background of white, ivory, navy or black.
Surfacing repeatedly this season is gray. A light, silvery gray can be used as an accent color with darker shades, but makes quite a modern, romantic statement when used as a neutral backdrop to showcase a splash of color.
Beige, taupe and cream are classic wedding colors that will never go out of style and make for a muted, romantic color palate.
When choosing your wedding colors, remember that integration is key. Once you decide on which shades you want, carry them throughout each area of your day. Introduce your theme with your invitations; have your bridal party show them off with bridesmaid dresses and matching vests for the groomsmen; add an interesting edge to your cake; and let them shine with the décor at your ceremony and reception. Just remember to have fun with your choices and surround yourself with an atmosphere of excitement and relaxation on your big day!
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