Wording Invitations So Guests Know What’s Really Up

Invitations are your guests’ first glimpse into what your wedding will be like, so take the opportunity to share that feeling and mood with them. It’s important to pick words that reflect the experience you want to create with your Big Day. If, for example, you’re having a casual, informal affair, you don’t want to be very formal with the language of your invitations. Consistency is key.

Not sure where to start? Here are some considerations to keep in mind when creating your invitations.

The Basics
No matter what your invitations look like or the wording you choose, there are several must-haves that you’ll need to include: your names, your wedding date, the ceremony time and the ceremony location’s name and address. If you’re having a reception at the same place, you can write “reception to follow,” but if your reception is elsewhere or at a different time, you’ll want to include that information separately – either on the invitation itself or on a separate reception card.
If you have a wedding website, you can also include this on the invitation so guests will know where to look for more information. The way every piece of your invitation is worded should reflect the feeling, mood and personality of you and your fiancé’s Big Day.

The Plus One Debate
First of all, no – you don’t have to give everyone a plus one. However, you do need to make it clear who is invited. This should be clearly stated on the invitation’s envelope. If, for example, you were inviting a friend and his or her girlfriend, you would include both of their names on the envelope. On the other hand, if you’re inviting a cousin and allowing them to choose a plus one, you would address it to your cousin “and guest.” If you were just inviting an uncle with no plus one, you would simply address the envelope directly to him.

What’s Trending?
We’ve noticed that invitation wording, and stationery wording in general, has become more playful over the years. Rather than sticking to the old-fashioned “You are cordially invited to,” couples are using everyday language and slang to convey what they really want it to say. This is a fun trend and gives you more flexibility to truly evoke your personalities. It can be fun and playful, witty, silly, or simple and short – write them however it feels right!
As more and more couples are realizing that there’s no need to be buttoned up and formal, we’ve been seeing more and more personalization, which is always a great thing. Just be yourself and have fun with it!

10 Unbelievably Creative Centerpiece Ideas

Centerpieces set the tone for an entire event, so why not “wow” your guests with a unique arrangement? An eye-catching centerpiece can make your event totally Instagram worthy. Better yet, a memorable centerpiece doesn’t have to break the bank! From simple and understated to dramatic and over-the-top, we’re sharing 10 of the most creative and head-turning centerpieces to incorporate into your wedding.

1. Ethereal Fairy Lights

Delicate fairy lights placed inside of bell jars or terrariums bring a touch of whimsy to any table setting. Your event will feel absolutely magical with the addition of these twinkling lights. 
Photo by Colin Miller; Event by Colin Cowie Celebrations
Photo by Angel He Photography

2. Mono-Floral Arrangements
For a modern feel, try placing single flowers in a variety of vases. Alternate the size or color of the flowers and vases for an eclectic mix-and-match look. Photo by Corbin Gurkin Photography
Photo by Sara & Rocky Photography
Photo by Joielala Photographie
Courtesy of Birds Of A Feather

3. Mini Hot Air Balloons
We can’t get enough of these quirky miniature hot air balloons. Whether sitting in baskets or hanging above, this centerpiece would be a playful addition to any tabletop. 
Photo by Logan Cole Photography
 
Photo by 5ive15ifteen Photography

4. Fabulous Floating Candles
Floating candles are elegant, set the mood, and are an affordable way to make a big impact with your wedding décor. An added bonus: everyone looks better in the soft glow of candlelight. 
Photo by A Day of Bliss Photography Inc.; Event by Cynthia Ross Affairs
 
Photo by Christian Oth Studio
 
Photo by Colin Miller; Event by Colin Cowie Celebrations

5. Sensational Succulents
As an alternative to blooming flowers, try using succulents for a bit of subtle greenery on your table. Succulents can work as a neutral in your color palette, while still bringing an organic aspect to yourdécor. Photo by Colin Miller; Event by Colin Cowie Celebrations
 
Photo by Watson Studios; Event by Off the Beaten Path Weddings

6. Glam Feathers
To heighten the drama, tall arrangements of feathers lend an air of old Hollywood glamour. Imagine women in elbow length gloves, sipping champagne beneath towering vases of white ostrich feathers –how chic!Photo by Colin Miller; Event by Colin Cowie Celebrations
 
Photo by Rebecca Weiss Photography; Event by X-Quisite Flowers & Events
 
Photo by Jess Elysse Photography; Floral by A Design Resource

7. Delicious Edible Displays
What’s better than a centerpiece that serves two purposes? Make an edible centerpiece of charcuterie, plates of fruit, or containers of cookies – it will feed and impress your guests! 
Photo by Kate Webber Photography
 
Photo by Ashley Batz; Styling by Erin Hiemstra + Bianca Sotelo 
 
Photo by Colin Miller; Event by Colin Cowie Celebrations

8. Vintage Lanterns
Filled with candles, flowers, or a combination of the two, lanterns can be used to create a charming centerpiece. We love the old-world vibe they bring to a table.  
Photo by Onelove Photography

9. Prettily Potted Herbs
Herbs in small flowerpots are one of the simplest and sweetest centerpieces, with the added bonus of their fresh aroma. Try to select herbs that will compliment the menu, such as rosemary if you’re serving roasted chicken or basil if you’re serving pasta.  
Photo by Divine Day Photography
 
Photo by Docuvitae Photography
 
Photo by Lane Dittoe

10. Shining Reflective Surfaces
A mirrored runner or vase can offer just the right amount of sparkle to your reception table. Mirrors add dimension and enhance the arrangements of flowers and candles placed above. 
Photo by Colin Miller; Event by Colin Cowie Celebrations
 
Photo by Duke Photography
 
Photo by Krista Mason Photography; Event by At Your Door Events

What Makes A Photographer GREAT and Successful?? I Have A Recipe:

I am NOT a photographer - nor have I ever been one.  But the last 12 years that I have been working in the wedding and event industry I have worked with HUNDREDS of wedding photographers.  I've coached those just starting out - I've worked with the ones who are famous - and I've worked with all of the incredible gems in between.  I know GREAT photography when I see it and I have seen 'the ugly' also ... My sensitivity and impulsive 'love or hate' decisions when I see a photograph are what made me a fantastic wedding blog editor and make me now a talented website designer.  Images matter.  Period.
If you are a photographer then you know that everyone with a cell phone thinks they can do what you do.  Anyone who can pay for a workshop can do what you do.  Anyone who buys a fancy-pants camera can do what you do.  Right???  How discouraging is that!?  How awful does it feel to lose clients to some newbie "photographer" because they charge less than you?
I feel there are a handful of things that make a photography company stand out amongst the 'crowd' of camera holding people.  These things, when applied correctly, can create a buzz that will be hard to stop.  I've seen it happen personally to my photographer friends, I've coached photographers from feeling like they should quit to being FULLY BOOKED, and when I started out as a wedding blog editor in 2008 I watched the names we all know today follow similar ideas to become the BEST out there.

1. Their personality shines beyond their work:  I realize that personalities are typically 'what they are' and it's hard to just go 'get a new personality' ... but the photographers I know who are always booked are fun to be around.  They create an experience that goes beyond the act of taking a photo.  Their clients feel like they are all friends.  
2. They work with the best and they know how to pick a great team to surround them:  They network with their local industry professionals.  They go to the 'social events' in their city and schmooze.  They reach out to new talent in their area and plan projects with them.  If there is a talented new wedding cake designer in your area REACH OUT!  Maybe go to their studio and offer to photograph their work.  Which brings me to the next point:
3. They say YES to things even when there might not be money involved:  Whether it be styled shoots, photographing a bouquet for a local florist who wants it for their portfolio, or shooting the booths at a local bridal show the 'always booked' photographers I know don't shy away from 'non paying gigs' and in fact they EMBRACE THEM!  If you are out there photographing with other professionals it does a handful of things:  creates another relationship with someone who may refer you, gives you beautiful images to share and for other pros to share to promote you, and gives you an experience of practicing your craft and flexing your creative muscles.
4. They happily hand out images to the vendors who were a part of the wedding or event:  The smartest and most savvy wedding photographers I know have ZERO issues passing out the images after a wedding, event, or styled shoot.  They understand that the more their work is promoted across social media or in online portfolios of wedding planners on their websites THE BETTER for them!  Of course, crediting is a must - and if a photographer has been burned by another professional or had their work misrepresented they will learn to not share with 'them' again - but overall sharing is HUGE for your company to grow!  So pass out those images and you'll see how excitement rises quickly!
5. They are forever students:  Even the photographers I know who are ALWAYS booked and busy are constantly learning - learning how to be better, keeping up with the current trends and styles - scouting new venues in their area and planning shoots.  ALWAYS BE A STUDENT!  The second you get comfy-cozy and feel you are good to go will be the second a new photographer with more energy will swoop in and take what use to be yours.
6. They take amazing detail shots: There are many WRONG ways to photograph shoes, invitations, bouquets ... if you want to always be booked you need to learn this.  I am SO sick of seeing shoes photographed 'heel to heel' in a window ... EW.  I am also super sick of seeing invitations photographed at an odd angle all over the place ... honestly, you need to study the top wedding blogs.  What detail shot styles are the best wedding blog editors choosing??  How are the best and most sought after wedding photographers shooting their details?  LEARN and DO.  If I see one more bad shoe shot I may in fact puke all over my computer.
7. They only show weddings or events they want to do more of:  This is SUPER important.  If you are striving to reach a 'high-end' bride then DO NOT BLOG the images of the mason jars and burlap from your last event.  ONLY show what you want to do more of - and this goes for social media too.  But my clients will have hurt feelings if I don't share their wedding!!  This is where 'how you take detail shots' matters the most.  At each wedding style up the invitations beautifully for a photo or take an excellent ring shot ... always make sure you take someone 'shareable' to support the brand you want to portray - that way there won't be any hurt feelings.
8. Their website is current and supportive of the type of client they want to attract:  The best photographers don't have sh*tty websites ... having a sh*tty website will RUIN you in this industry.  You have to think about where brides are coming from ... probably some of the most beautiful wedding blogs in the world ... if they click in to your website and are immediately 'let down' you probably just lost a potential client.  I say put money into your website BEFORE you put money into advertising - yes, I am a website designer ... I realize this seems agenda-driven ... but it's the TRUTH - you can't expect your advertising or online features to work for you if your website is a depressing pit of doom.  You don't have to hire me, but take care of that before you think you can be BOOKED SOLID ;)
9. They get featured:  If you are out there doing all ^^ that stuff then being featured shouldn't be a problem!  But do it!!  Submit your work and not just to 1 or 2 blogs ... try to make it a goal to be featured on at least 9 online publications ... there are so many great ones out there!  Don't be shy!  Build your press page with an impressive collection of badges so that you can create an emotional connection with the brides visiting your website.

Look, I've seen this work ... I've coached photographers using this recipe ... 'not getting booked' can destroy your confidence!!  Don't let it!  The above list will also help boost your confidence and give you purpose ... and in return, the phone might start ringing like crazy.

Couple Gets ‘Big’ Surprise When Tom Hanks Crashes Their Wedding Photos

Life is like a box of chocolates: You never know when Tom Hanks is going to jog into your wedding photos.

Photographer Meg Miller had what can only be described as the ultimate New York City celebrity moment over the weekend when Hanks approached the bride and groom she was photographing in Central Park.

Miller said joggers in the park were mostly staying far away from the shoot, but at one point she put her camera down to let “this guy” pass when he came too close to the couple.

Except the guy didn’t pass. Instead, he approached the newlyweds, Elisabeth and Ryan, “took off his hat, just leaned right into the group and said ‘Hi, I’m Tom Hanks,’” she said.

Meg Miller Photography

According to Miller, he then proceeded to shake hands, kissed the bride’s hand and wished the pair congratulations ― even offering up a few wedding services of his own.

“He asked if they needed a wedding officiant, because he is an ordained minister,” she said with a laugh.

After taking a selfie with the couple, which he posted on his own Instagram, Hanks just “sort of took off running,” Miller said. “Had he just run past us we would have never known it was him.”

Miller told The Huffington Post the experience was pretty much a first for her. While she’s had minor celebrity encounters at other nuptials she’s worked, they were “no Tom Hanks-level celebrity.”

Thanks to a video taken by the couple’s videographer, First Day Films, the unforgettable moment has been immortalized on film, too. Just try not to smile over the bride’s reaction faces.

Nothing like a “Big” surprise on your wedding day, eh? Head to Miller’s site and Instagram to see more of her work. And congrats from us, too, Elisabeth and Ryan! 

Do We Have to Go to Our Own After-Party?

Photo: Christa Strick Photography
 

After-parties are every couple's favorite way to keep the wedding festivities going. After all, who wants to stop celebrating when the lights come up at midnight? But while it sounds like a great idea a few months out, the day of your wedding might be a different story. So can you decide last-minute to skip your own after-party? Our experts weigh in.

Whether you're tired, overwhelmed by the attention, or are feeling a little too tipsy, there's nothing forcing you to attend your own after-party — but that doesn't mean it's canceled! Instead, let someone (your maid of honor or best man, for example) who will be attending know that the guests of honor won't be making an appearance so they can let the rest of your guests know not to expect you. You should also make sure they let the venue manager know you won't be attending, so they know not to try to find you with any questions. Make a point to say goodbye to people as your reception is ending so you can catch any guests you might have missed throughout the night, then head to your room and enjoy a few extra hours of sleep!

Of course, you may want to stop by for just a few minutes to get the after-party going before you head to bed. Grab a water or a club soda from the bar if one more drink just isn't appealing, make the rounds quickly, and then make your exit. Who knows, you may get a second wind!
While you can't force guests to stay all night, even with an open bar, have your wedding party serve as unofficial hosts to welcome guests and make sure everyone is having a blast. And make sure to collect all of those late-night stories during your morning-after brunch!

Save-the-Date Etiquette

Photo by Devon Jarvis

 

The ring is on your finger and the planning is underway—time to get your guests in the loop. Your first step: Send a wedding save-the-date card. This pre-invitation officially announces your wedding date and lets guests know that they will, in fact, be invited to the celebration. Here are the answers to your most-asked etiquette questions.

Where to Start

Q. Do we have to send a save-the-date?
As destination weddings and three-day weekend affairs have become more standard, so have save-the-dates. And if you're marrying during high-travel times like a holiday weekend or summer in a beach town, a save-the-date is an expected courtesy. Of course, you don't have to send one if you don't want to, but it will give guests a heads up about your wedding plans. Between travel arrangements and busy schedules, sending a save-the-date will increase guests' chances of attending your celebration. And that's the goal, right?

Q. When do you send them?
As a general rule, it's best to start spreading the news around six months prior to the ceremony (eight months for a faraway destination or holiday weekend). This gives wedding guests plenty of time to book their travel, save a bit of cash and ask for days off from work. Any earlier and they may toss the notice aside. Any later and it might as well be an invitation.
Q. Do we have to send save-the-dates to everyone?
Just to the people that you want to come to your wedding. Even if you've already received verbal confirmations from certain guests, you should still send them a save-the-date ( bridesmaids, siblings and parents). But remember: Only send to those that you definitely want to attend. Once these are in the mail, there's really no turning back.

Q. Which information should we include?
At this point, you may not have all the specifics, and that's okay. The save-the-date should include the couple's names, wedding date (or dates, for a wedding weekend), location (a city is helpful, even if the venue isn't booked yet) and a notice for a formal invitation to follow. Including a wedding website is ideal, but again, not necessary. At this point an RSVP shouldn't be expected—after all, this is the correspondence that gives guests an opportunity to figure out what their RSVP will be when the formal invitation arrives.

Q. Do our save-the-dates have to match our wedding invitations or theme?
Not at all. Save-the-dates are much less formal. This is your opportunity to let your style as a couple really shine, or try out a theme you love but are hesitant to commit to just yet. Play with colors, motifs or fonts to create something that will get guests excited for the occasion.

Sticky Situations

Q. Can we send electronic save-the-dates?
Email invitations for informal events like bachelorette parties and postwedding brunches are becoming more popular, and as a result, rewriting the rules of snail mail etiquette. We stand by old-school stationery for the big stuff like formal invitations, but leave the use of digital up to the discretion of the couple for any additional wedding events. If you do decide on digital, consider doubling up: Send out an electronic save-the-date to everyone, and send paper correspondence to older relatives or friends that may want it as a keepsake.
Q. Do we need to add “and guest," or can that wait for the invitations?
It's best to be clear about who's invited to the wedding, even this far in advance. By including the actual names of every intended guest on the envelope, you're less likely to have any assumed invitees (like your second cousin's new boyfriend), or general confusion (is your seven-year-old niece invited?). Being up front about who's invited also gives families with uninvited kids ample time to plan for child care, and out-of-towners time to figure out hotel room shares.
Q. What if we send save-the-dates and then change the date or location?
This scenario is very unlikely, since no couple should send out formal wedding information before setting the plans in stone—but stranger things have happened. In the event of an unexpected change of plans, your best bet is to update your wedding website, pick up the phone and start spreading the word. You do have the option of sending out another mailing that explains the dilemma—but a personal, verbal notice is the best way to avoid confusion. (If your wedding guest list is a bit overwhelming, enlist the help of your bridal party.)
Q. What about our registry information?
While your guests will likely want to know where you're registered, it's in bad taste to include this information on your save-the-dates or wedding invitations. Gifts, of course, are not required. Guests will know to ask bridal party attendants or your parents for the scoop. You can also include a link to your wedding website (where your registry information should live) on an invite insert.

Light Finger Foods You Should Serve While Getting Ready

As a wedding planner, I do my best to ensure my couples stay hydrated and eat something before their ceremony, especially if they’re having an evening wedding. Women, in particular, can be nervous, which can lead to either forgetting about eating or feeling too jittery to want to eat. Here are my suggestions for an array of finger foods you can serve while you’re getting ready that everyone in your wedding party will love:

-Chocolate-covered strawberries. For an added touch, serve them with a glass of champagne! Just don’t overdue the alcohol intake or you’ll negate any efforts to stay hydrated for your big day.

-Pizzettes. Bite-sized pizzas can be as fancy or familiar as you’d like. Avoid any ingredients that might overwhelm your taste buds or lead to bad breath, though.

-Popcorn. Offer up a variety of flavored popcorn, from caramel to cheddar. This is a great light snack that even a fluttery stomach can handle.

-Truffles. Few people can pass up chocolate, and truffles are a wonderfully decadent way to offer it to your bridal party.

-Cheese tray. You can’t go wrong with a spread of cheeses, crackers, and fruit. It’s a light but satisfying treat.

-Sandwich on a stick. One trendy finger food is a “toothpick sandwich,” such as a piece of roast beef paired with a cube of Swiss cheese or a cherry tomato paired with buffalo mozzarella, each intended to be eaten in one bite. Pair with dipping sauces for an added punch of flavor.

-Tartlets. Tartlets are a wonderful way to offer either sweet or savory finger food for your bridal party. Opt for fluffy quiche, succulent mousse, or creamy pate. Yum!

-Sliders. They may sound like bar food, but sliders are a wonderful one or two-bite finger food option. Consider classing them up a bit by offering crab cake or Angus beef sliders.

-Spring rolls. Light, crispy veggie eggrolls are a fun and healthy option. Pair them with a variety of dips to appeal to a wide range of palates.

I don’t know about you, but I’m hungry! Be sure to budget for some light finger foods to enjoy while you and your bridal party are getting ready. Everyone will appreciate it!

Breaking Down Black Tie — What Does This Dress Code Really Mean?

Photo: Alison Conklin Photography

The excitement of opening a gorgeously printed and packaged wedding invitation can soon turn into panic and fear once you read the words "black tie." Can I still wear a short dress? Does this mean my date has to buy a tuxedo? What type of venue must this be? Fear not! We're here to help as we break down the general etiquette of what exactly you can wear to a black-tie wedding — and explain all the variations on the dress code, too. Just for good measure.

Black Tie
This is for sure going to be a glam night, so get excited to look fabulous. For the ladies, this type of language on an invitation means to pull out all the stops. A common misconception means that you must wear a gown — but not necessarily. A chic, fancy and black-tie appropriate (glitzy, formal, embellished, etc.) cocktail length dress can be just as chic, and fit within the dress code. Traditionally, for the guys, this does mean a tuxedo with a variation of a black tie. However, a nice (black, obvs.) constructed suit with the obvious black tie can work — as we all know not everyone has tuxedos and gowns lying around in their closets.

Black Tie Optional
This type of request on an invitation leaves the door a bit more open for guests' dress, and we think it's always best to err on the side of caution in this situation. For those looking to glam it up, dress your best in accordance with black tie etiquette. For those a bit more casual, dress up your date in his best suit and put on your best dress, without the "limitations" of a strict black tie preference. Keep in mind, though, that traditionally speaking the black tie optional request technically applies to the guys, while the ladies are still held to the black tie guidelines. However, as with any formal affair, steer clear of the most casual options including sundresses, sandals, printed shirts, etc.

Creative Black Tie
Chances are you may never see this on an invitation, as it is rarely used within current wedding culture — but it's always best to be prepared. (Girl Scouts code, anyone?) In the event you find yourself in this situation, have fun with it! Creative Black Tie requests mean that the men can have some fun with their tuxedo accessories and add pops of color, prints, and more to their ties, suspenders, and shirts. For the ladies, it's time to glam up your black tie attire with statement jewelry, printed or colored scarves and shawls, and more. Think: fancy and fabulous.

5 Ways to Politely Tell Guests That Your Wedding is Social Media-Free

Photo: Getty Images
 

It's the year 2016, and everyone knows that wedding guests are using their phones during weddings. But if you're worried that your guests will be staring down their phones the whole time and not enjoying the moment, you may want to create a social media rule to prohibit cell phone use. Whether it's because guests are Snapchatting or playing PokémonGo, it can be very intrusive and cause some to not be able to enjoy your special moment "in 3D." To spread that message without making guests angry or upset, here are five polite ways to tell your guests to put their phones away on your big day.

Make It Funny
Send out a GIF or a funny slideshow of wedding social media fails and explain that you don't want these to happen at your wedding. It'll give your guests a laugh and be something that is memorable yet endearing. Chances are when they try to post a photo on Instagram as you're walking down the aisle, they'll remember your funny .

Ask Them Early On
Put a note in the invitation so that your guests know ahead of time that you're having a social media-free wedding. That way, they won't be shocked or surprised on the big day.

Give Them an Incentive to Be Phone-Free
Let them know all the cool things at your wedding they can do when they aren't wasting time scrolling through Facebook during the reception. Maybe you're having a ice cream sundae bar or a photo booth — let them know of all the fun that is to come.

Pin Up a Sign When They Walk In
A small sign placed strategically at the entrance of your ceremony area is an easy and efficient way to spread the message before the wedding begins. Guests will all see the sign at the same time, and it will serve as a friendly reminder to keep their phones off.

Have the Officiant Give a Reminder
Before you walk down the aisle, ask the person officiating your ceremony to make a statement about refraining from posting on social media during the ceremony.

Can My Groom Wear a Tux to Our 'Cocktail Attire' Wedding?

Photo: Phil Anema of Christian Oth Studio
 

Wedding dress codes are complicated for everyone, including the bride and groom. You know not to shop for super-formal ball gowns for your beach wedding, and there are some groom looks that are more appropriate for a daytime celebration than an evening in a ballroom. But cocktail attire? That's a gray area that's often open to interpretation (and input from the type of venue and season you've chosen). So even if your wedding is cocktail attire, is it okay for the groom to wear a tux? Our experts weigh in.
 

While tuxedos are usually reserved for black tie events, if your wedding dress code is "cocktail attire" but will run on the dressier side, your groom should be able to pull off a tux. You have a few options for keeping his look from appearing as though he's dressed for a different event entirely.

The first option is to have the groomsmen wear suits that are the same color as the groom's tuxedo (most likely black). By having them dress down slightly while still matching, he'll stand out as the man of the hour, whereas an entire wedding party in formalwear could make guests feel underdressed.


Another choice is to have him wear a non-traditional tuxedo. Navy blue tuxes are all the rage, and look sharp with black lapels and a black bowtie. He could wear a full navy blue tux, or black pants with a navy tuxedo jacket. Tuxedos also come in charcoal gray, which are a modern option that's a little more casual.


And of course, remember that it's your wedding! If the two of you want to dress a little more formal (and it fits with your theme and your venue), by all means, go for it! No one will fault a bride or groom for wanting to dress up on their wedding day.

The One Item Your Tented Wedding Reception Desperately Needs

Photo: Bamber Photography

Hosting a tented wedding reception? Bring the outdoors in by decorating your tent with beautiful trees and branches. Doing so will help the tent seamlessly blend into its outdoor surroundings. Plus, filling the space with elegant, towering trees is a great way to emphasize the tent's height. Here are six of the most stunning takes on this back-to-nature-inspired idea.

Trees in Planter Boxes (above): Help create a focal point in the tent by flanking the dance floor or bar with live trees in clean, white planter boxes.



Photo: Christian Oth Studio

Tent Poles: Disguise some of the tent's support poles by installing tall, leafy trees throughout the reception space.



Photo: Aaron Delesie

On the Dance Floor: Help bring the outdoors in by decorating with trees the tent with live trees (these are aspen). Continue the tree motif on the dance floor by painting branches and leaves.



Photo: Christian Oth Studio

Tree Centerpieces: Instead of live trees, create a similar effect by decorating reception tables with tall, sculptural branches in glass containers.



Photo: Annie Parish Photography

Tabletop Trees: Deep-green ficus-tree centerpieces look beautiful set against a chic, all-white reception tent.



Photo: Hitching Pole Photography

Woodsy Setting: Create a magical woodland setting within your tent by adding faux tree trunks to obscure the poles. This couple's event designer then attached real tree branches to the poles and added twinkly lights.

4 Sexy Items You Can Add to Your Registry (And Not Be Embarrassed)

Photo: Getty Images
 

As Gloria Brame, Ph.D., sexologist and author of The Truth About Sex: A Sex Primer For The 21st Century, says, "the more sex loot, the merrier." That's true even when it comes to your wedding registry, where you can safely add sexy items while saving face — seriously.

Of course, adding items to your wedding registry that are meant only to enhance your sex life can be tricky. After all, "you may not want Aunt Matilda to know what kind of sex toys you prefer or your brother to know what brand of lube you use," says Brame. These items are best added to a secret registry you share with only your closest, most trusted friends. "Or maybe you'd rather get your groom involved and create a wish list together with items for both of you," Brame suggests.
But if you can think beyond sex toys to some safer options, you can give your sex life a boost without your guests being any the wiser. Here, Brame says, are four sexy items you can add to your registry without feeling embarrassed.

1. G-Rated sleepwear.
You might not want dear ol' Aunt Matilda to buy you a see-through teddy. But she and your other guests might also be happy to help you splurge on plush robes, boudoir slippers, or even a lace-trimmed nightgown. "Things like good quality robes do not come cheap, and are something you and your groom will appreciate for years to come too," says Brame.

2. Silk sheets.
You don't want your wedding guests to know what you're doing in bed. But adding silk sheets to your wedding registry doesn't obviously point to sex — though it will make the act more pleasurable, Brame promises. "You will feel good and so will they, knowing that you are both wrapped in luxury on your wedding night," she points out.


3. Body care products.
Brame recommends adding skin cream, hair oils, massage oils, aromatherapy kits, personal grooming kits, candles, specialty pillows, "and other small luxuries that will make your bedroom a sensual palace." Why? Because, as she says, "pampering yourself will make you feel like a sex goddess."

4. Hotel amenities.
Calling all brides and grooms with an alternative registry, such as a honeymoon registry: If your hotel offers amenities like an in-room couples massage or other spa indulgence, feel free to add these services to your registry. "These items will pump up the romance and intimacy during your honeymoon," says Brame, "and keep your sexy hormones on high."

The Ultimate Wedding Cocktail Hour Guide

Think of your cocktail hour as a souped-up version of your favorite happy hour. Here, some basic cocktail hour must-haves, plus a few extra-genius was to wow your guests.

It's early in the evening and all your loved ones are together in a stylish and romantic atmosphere, complete with your favorite drinks, food, seating and music. There's really nothing better. Here's what you need to pull off a fabulous cocktail hour at your wedding.

1. Knock-Out Signature Cocktails

   
   Photo by Eric Kelley Photography
   Whether it's a classic or totally new, you can match your signature cocktail to your color scheme, let it reflect your personalities (as a couple or individually) or honor your favorite hometown or cultural flavors. Maybe your go-to sip is whiskey lemonade, while your spouse's is gin and tonic. Feature both cocktails on the menu and give them creative names to reflect your personalities. Why stop at just one? Name drinks after your bridal party or serve favorite cocktails from both sets of parents.

2. Comfortable Seating

   
   Photo by Mirelle Carmichael Photography
   You'll want to give people room to mingle easily, so don't crowd the room with chairs. Instead, provide enough seating so your older guests have a comfy place to rest and anyone who's soldiering in high heals can take a break. A combination of low chairs, coffee tables and higher tables with bar stools will give your cocktail hour a different feel than your sit-down reception dinner. Want a cozier vibe? Build a virtual outdoor living room with overstuffed armchairs, rugs and vintage wooden end tables.

3. Mood Music

   
   Photo by Eli Turner Studios
   Since you're not at the dance party yet, keep the volume turned down and the vibe mellow so people can chat with ease. This doesn't mean you have to play cheesy elevator music, but matching your music to the mood is a good idea. Maybe you've planned a lively DJ to keep you dancing throughout the reception, but for the cocktail hour, slow it down. Hire a jazz trio, quartet or acoustic guitarist to set a distinct mood.

4. Stylish Setting

   
   Photo by Milou + Olin Photography
   Sure, you've spent ages choosing your reception decor, but don't let the cocktail hour go by the wayside, especially if it's in a separate space. Small centerpieces and extra votive candles can be a great way to finish off the room. For example, if your cocktail hour's outside, but your reception will be inside a ballroom, don't be afraid to vary the decor. Take advantage of the natural foliage and string wide ribbons and colorful banners with lights from the tree branches, or set up floral installations near the entrance.

5. Decor Theme

   
   Photo by Joseph Lin Photography
   Your centerpieces and table settings will set the theme for the reception, but if the cocktail hour is held in a separate room or outside, maybe try something different. You don't need to make your guests wear leis and Hawaiian-themed shirts, but you could serve tropical cocktails out of coconuts, and chips with fresh papaya and mango salsa. Take your theme to the next level by expanding it to your music and decor. Hire a mariachi band and set up handmade guacamole and churro stations. Or hire a jazz pianist and singer to perform and decorate with Art Deco-style chandeliers and a bold black-and-white color palette.

6. Open Bar

   
   Photo by Onelove Photography
   We've said it before and we'll say it again: Having a cash bar at your wedding is not a good move. If you're on a tight budget, skip pricey liquor and serve only beer and wine, or simply offer one signature drink. Looking to liven things up? Set up a specialty bar, like a cognac bar, microbrew bar, bubbly bar (with sparkling wines) or a tequila bar. Ask your caterer about keeping an expert on hand during cocktail hour to give suggestions and tasting tips.

7. Scrumptious Bites

   
   Photo by Leah Fisher Photography
   We know it's your menu, but make sure it's diverse enough so all of your guests can enjoy at least one appetizer. If you're at a loss for where to begin, touch on the major tastes: Serve something slightly salty, sweet, bitter and savory, and provide several dishes to complement to your signature cocktails. Don't forget to ask about any special diets or allergies ahead of time to ensure everyone has something to enjoy (and so anyone with allergies knows what to steer clear of). Something you might not have considered is to go ahead and give your guests something sweet before they sit down to dinner! You don't want to spoil their appetite for what's to come (so save the chocolate ganache for later), but offering a seasonally sweet treat—like a fruit tart or lemon sorbet—could be the perfect palate cleanser before dinner. You can also forgo typical utensils entirely by offering all bites on edible spoons or in mini crispy cones.

8. Personal Touches

   
   Photo by Austin Gros
   Little extras, like monogrammed napkins or barware, can go a long way in making your wedding feel totally personalized. Plus, stemless wine glasses with your wedding date or initials make an instant keepsake for guests. Fun tip: Don't wait until the end of the night to give out your favors. Instead, have a special wine or beer brewed ahead of time in honor of your wedding you'll serve during cocktail hour. Let guests sample it then, and offer them each a bottle to take home at the end of the night, complete with a customized label.

9. Nonalcoholic Options

   
   Photo by Ian Joseph Jones Photography
   Make sure you've got a few drink selections for non-drinkers, especially if it's an outdoor summer wedding. For hotter months, try water infused with cucumber, melon, mint and lots of ice. During cooler months, serve something cozy and seasonal, like hot apple cider with cinnamon sticks. Give guests more than just water and soda by having at least one mocktail on the menu. Work with your caterer or mixologist to come up with something inventive like a mix of grapefruit and orange juices, or a little coconut milk and a small scoop of orange sherbet on top.

10. Games & Activities

    
    Photo by Brooke Images
    Give your guests something extra to do during the cocktail hour, even if it's just breaking out the guest book a little early to give them plenty of time to sign it. If your wedding is outdoors, set up lawn games like bocce ball, lawn croquet or a beanbag toss. These types of games are also a great idea if you'll have be lots of kids at the reception. You could also rent a photo booth and provide fun props for guests to pose with.