Classic Wedding Color Palettes We Love

Check out the hottest classic wedding color combos that we’re obsessed with right now.

1. Black + White

   
   Photo by Clockwise from top left: Jana Williams Photography; onelove photography; Jana Williams Photography; Jana Williams Photography
   Good for: formal winter weddings
   Tips for pulling it off: What's more classic than a timeless wedding color palette of black and white? It may seem intimidating to design, but you can make it your own with the use of different fabrics, textures and décor accents. If you really want to make a statement, wear a black and white gown. For something more subtle, keep an all-white look until the reception, then accessorize with a few pieces of black jewelry.

2. Peach + Sage

   
   Photo by Clockwise from top left: Audrey Rose Photography; Robert & Kathleen Photographers; Jason+Gina Wedding Photographers; Audrey Rose Photography
   Good for: whimsical spring weddings
   Tips for pulling it off: Looking for a pretty palette that radiates springtime enchantment? Peach and sage it is. These two colors live beautifully together, and they thrive when they're styled in an alfresco reception space. Continue to let spring blooms inspire the details all the way to your favor—a potted plant!
   
   

3. Yellow + Gray

   
   Photo by Clockwise from top left: Roohi Photography; L Photographie; Mandy Paige Photography; Mike Larson Photographer
   Good for: casual outdoor weddings
   Tips for pulling it off: For a bright and inviting party vibe, opt for a cheerful palette of yellow anchored by a dark gray. Let yellow take the lead in all the accent details—think: envelope liners, bouquet wraps, cocktail napkins and even sprinkles! Then add in some gray (or sleek accents of silver) when you need to create depth. With a palette so cheerful, it should be matched with memorable entertainment, like an interactive dessert station or photo booth with quirky props.

4. Red + Gold

   
   Photo by Clockwise from top left: Mirelle Carmichael Photography; Our Labor Of Love; Mirelle Carmichael Photography
   Good for: formal summer or fall weddings
   Tips for pulling it off: We love the regal appeal that comes with gold in a color palette, especially when it's paired with red for a bold and modern look. Since red is such an eye-catching hue, you only need touches of it here and there for it to stand out. For example, decorate the tabletop with gold chargers, flatware and napkin rings, then accent with a single red napkin or place card. For your blooms, pair red stems with shades of pink to soften the floral arrangements and create a trendy monochromatic effect.

5. Jewel Tones (Eggplant + Ruby + Fuchsia)

   
   Photo by Clockwise from top left: onelove photography; Allison Maginn; Jess Barfield Photography; onelove photography; Ron Soliman Photojournalism
   Good for: formal fall weddings
   Tips for pulling it off: Can't decide on just two colors? No problem! Try a range of hues in the same color family. The key is picking colors that are close in saturation. You'll have nearly unlimited options when it comes to florals, and not to mention how thrilled your bridesmaids will be to pick out their own dress color. We love the sultry yet playful vibe created by a range of deep jewel tones.

6. Coral + Light Blue

   
   Photo by Clockwise from top left: Gabe Aceves Photography; B Hull Photography; Laura Simson Photography; Sweet Tea Photography
   Good for: outdoor summer weddings
   Tips for pulling it off: For a coastal affair, keep things tranquil. A light blue hue will complement any waterside event, and a preppy pop of coral (think: inside of a conch shell) will keep the vibes upbeat and fresh. Incorporate a water element onto your tabletops with floating candles to really round out the aesthetic.

7. Scarlet + Navy

   
   Photo by Clockwise from top left: Jacqueline Patton Photography; Brandon Kidd Photography; Brandon Kidd Photography; Broxton Art Photography
   Good for: vibrant summer weddings
   Tips for pulling it off: Keep the look less "America the Beautiful" and more "your wedding is beautiful!" by adjusting the shade of your colors and playing with textured materials. Mismatched colored glassware, embossed charger plates and contemporary flatware make for one stylish reception.

8. Lavender + Sage

   
   Photo by Clockwise from top left: Artistrie Co.; Joshua Aull Photography; Birds of a Feather; Heather Payne Photography
   Good for: formal spring weddings
   Tips for pulling it off: Soft and sweet, this organic palette is perfect for a sophisticated alfresco reception. Coordinate the wedding party with lavender dresses for the bridesmaids and matching pocket squares or bow ties for the guys. When it comes to the reception, wake up your guests' senses by garnishing each escort card or place setting with sprigs of lavender, or incorporate it into a signature cocktail. For the finishing touch, add layers of lace, tulle or other billowy fabrics to soften tablescapes and add wisps of color.

9. Peony + Burgundy

   
   Photo by Clockwise from top left: Brandon Kidd Photography; Brandon Kidd Photography; Meg Ruth Photo; Eli Turner Studios
   Good for: casual late-summer weddings
   Tips for pulling it off: Are you totally inspired by peonies? We don't blame you. Lean on your favorite summer bloom to anchor your wedding color palette and décor. Paired with a dark red and contrasted with plenty of greenery, these flower focal points can go a long way. If you can't spring for a reception full of peonies, incorporate a peony motif into your stationery and signage to keep the theme consistent without splurging on a lot of stems.

10. Jade + Cerulean

    
    Photo by Clockwise from top left: Jodi Miller Photography; Jodi Miller Photography; Jodi Miller Photography; One Eleven Images
    Good for: destination weddings
    Tips for pulling it off: Planning a nautical bash? Get inspired by a monochromatic palette of chic seaglass blues. Print and texture mixing is encouraged, along with a signature sip and dessert bar that perpetuates the color scheme.

11. Hunter Green + Orange + Navy

    
    Photo by Clockwise from top left: onelove photography; onelove photography; Ashley Seawell Photography
    Good for: eclectic fall weddings
    Tips for pulling it off: For something contemporary and totally trendy, go for a colorful palette of green, orange and navy. We love coordinated groomsmen, but for the fashion-forward groom, a dapper two-toned navy suit with black lapels is a sure way to stand out from the crowd. If formal is what you're after, elegant patterned china and colored stemware is a great way to steer the vibe away from boho and toward country club chic.

12. Purple + Turquoise

    
    Photo by Clockwise from top left: Melissa Jill Photography; Annie Mcelwain; Melissa Jill Photography; Melissa Jill Photography; Allison Maginn
    Good for: modern vineyard weddings
    Tips for pulling it off: Want a color pairing that's equal parts bold and beautiful? A vibrant turquoise and pure purple combo is perfect for the couple who wants to make a statement. Turquoise pairs beautifully with the natural greens in your florals, so amp up the greenery for more of a garden vibe. If glam is what you're going for, incorporate exotic flowers like orchids and add some metallic accents into the mix.

13. Ballet Slipper Pink + Dove Gray

    
    Photo by Clockwise from top left: Photo Love; Our Labor Of Love; Shara Jo Photography; Studio Finch Photography
    Good for: romantic backyard weddings
    Tips for pulling it off: These two soft colors act as a neutral base for romantic details. We're talking scenic backdrops, overhead bistro lighting, fabric drapings and lengthy garlands of greenery—and don't forget the flower crowns! The perfect finishing touch? A dramatic exit with sparklers aplenty.

14. Cornflower Blue + Navy

    
    Photo by Clockwise from left: Meg Ann Photography; Meg Ann Photography; Marni Rothschild Pictures
    Good for: coastal nautical weddings
    Tips for pulling it off: We love a good seafaring navy, and we love it even more when it's accented with a peppy cornflower blue. Hop on the mismatched dress trend and let your bridesmaids choose which shade looks best on them, while still achieving a coordinated look. Natural blue florals are limited (you could go with white flowers with a blue tint), so lean on white blooms to blend in with the rest of the décor, while placing blue details elsewhere, like tabletop, bar and favors.

15. Rose + Rose Gold

    
    Photo by Clockwise from left: Abby Jiu Photography; onelove photography; onelove photography; onelove photography
    Good for: preppy summer weddings
    Tips for pulling it off: Rose gold is having a moment—not only in the jewelry world, but in the décor world too. Metallic blush accents are popping up everywhere from dinner plate designs to welcome signs. Our favorite rose gold moment? The foil on mini champagne splits. It's perfectly coordinated with the color scheme and makes for the cutest favor.

6 Mouth-Watering Menu Ideas for a Late-Summer Wedding

Photo: Jose Villa

Planning a summer celebration? Celebrate the season's incredible bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables by incorporating them into your wedding reception menu. Here are six of our favorite summer-inspired wedding menu ideas.

Prosecco & Popsicles (above): Help guests cool off during cocktail hour by adding berry popsicles to glasses of chilled prosecco or champagne.



Photo: Lauren Kinsey

Shrimp Gazpacho: A chilled soup like tomato gazpacho (added bonus: shrimp!) served in a shot glass is a guaranteed cocktail-hour crowd pleaser.



Photo: Caroline Tran

Frozen Watermelon Slices: During cocktail hour, have servers pass out slices of frozen watermelon skewered on a stick.



Photo: Rebecca Arthurs

Caprese Salad: You can't go wrong with a quintessentially summer salad—the caprese, with slices of ripe tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

See More: 35 Modern Wedding Cakes for Chic and Unique Couples



Photo: Julie Mikos Photographer

Poke & Seaweed Salad: If your guests have a more adventurous palette, serve up small plates of poke (a raw fish salad in Hawaiian cuisine) and seaweed salad.



Photo: Jessica Burke Photography

Strawberry Shortcake: Nothing screams summer more than strawberry shortcake! We love this version served in individual mason jars.

5 Things No One Tells You About an Outdoor Wedding

 
Photo: Joey Kennedy Photography

Having an outdoor wedding may seem like a great way to celebrate your love of nature and put a fresh spin on a traditional wedding. But before you say "I do" and dance the night away underneath the stars, you need to do your research about outdoor weddings — and how to handle the potential issues that may arise. Here are five things no one tells you about outdoor weddings (so that you can be prepared!).

1. It's going to get hot.
Whether you decide to have your outdoor wedding in the middle of winter or you rent a tent to protect you from the summer heat wave, it's going to get hot. When people are spending the night close to one another — let alone breaking it down on the dance floor, body temperatures will be hotter than usual. Be sure to give guests fans if possible, and also consider having an indoor spot or lounge tent they can take a breather in if they need some refreshing between dances.

2. Bugs are a given.
Outdoor weddings mean that your number one wedding crasher may be uninvited bugs. As a precautionary measure, be sure to have cans of bug spray available — and even chat with the outdoor venue to see if they can spray the property beforehand. Another great way to avoid bugs is to purchase fans, which can be turned on to blow air throughout the space, helping to keep the airflow moving throughout the night.

3. You may have more wedding crashers than normal.
Since you're doing your wedding outdoors, blocking off the property from the general public may be difficult. This is especially true if the wedidng is taking place at a public beach or park. There are a few options when it comes to this conundrum: Find a way to barricade the area, hire security, or just accept the fact that you may have a few crashers that want to partake in all the fun!

4. Dirt will be everywhere.
You're spending hundreds or thousands of dollars on the wedding dress of your dreams and a pair of shoes, and of course you want to keep them looking pristine. However, being outside in the elements will definitely take its toll on your ensemble. Unfortunately, there's not much you can do about this besides have a backup pair of shoes and a Tide stick on hand. Ultimately, if you're having an outdoor wedding, it's important to be at peace with the fact that at the end of the night, your dress and shoes may be black instead of white.

5. Remember to have a bad weather back-up plan.
While you can control many things during the planning process, weather is never one of them. So if you're going to do your wedding outdoors, have a viable and easy bad weather back-up plan. No one can truly predict what will happen hours — or even minutes — before it's time to walk down the aisle, so make sure that you have a location that you can fall back on if the weather gets out of hand.

Beautiful Love Song

14 Totally Rational Wedding Day Worries Every Bride Has

Photo: Getty Images
 

Everyone always says, "Stop being such a worrywart" or "Don't worry, everything will work out". But, like any other bride, you can't help but stress out. After all, it's only the biggest day of your life and you'd hate for anything to go awry. So join the club, brides, because here are 14 totally "rational" wedding day worries that run through every engaged gal's mind.

1. Bad weather
More specifically, rain, especially if you're saying, "I do" outside, but not necessarily. Every couple loves taking pics outdoors and would hate to have the weather rain on their parade. Hey, that's what backup plans are for though. Oh, and clear umbrellas and rain boots too. Let's face it, you'll be checking the weather like a mad man every day leading up to the wedding. There's just no way of getting around it.

2. Dress drama
What if it doesn't fit? What if it's too long? What if you spill something on it before you even get down the aisle? What if someone steps on the train, or worse, it totally rips on the dance floor? So many things could go wrong, ugh.

3. Someone not showing up
Whether it's the groom (noooo!), one of the bridesmaids or a vendor, every bride can't help but fret about a key person to their big day not showing up and leaving them stranded. Um, like the officiant. Now, that would be bad!

4. Tripping down the aisle
You're probably getting the jitters right now just thinking about it! The walk down the aisle is supposed to be so elegant and graceful, and that's a lot of pressure for one bride to handle, particularly with all those eyes on her. You'll never live it down if you bust your ass or fall flat on your face on that walk.
 

5. Ugly crying
Think Chrissy Teigen at the 2015 Golden Globes kind of ugly cry where the mascara (note to all brides: wear waterproof!) is literally running down your face. It's a legit worry, and chances are, you will shed a tear or two, but with the right tools (again, waterproof mascara...it'll save your life, some tissues and a hand squeeze from your hubby) you'll be good to go and just as stunning as ever.


6. Drinking too much
Alcohol calms your nerves, but you know too much booze on your big day is never a good thing, ah! You'll be popping champagne while you're getting ready. Hopefully your BFFs can help you keep the alcohol in check so you don't overdo it. Just enough to take the edge off!

7. The groom getting too drunk
Honestly, what it comes down to is you don't trust his groomsmen and guy friends to not try to feed him shots the entire night. And you ain't trying to babysit nobody, especially not him. Let's just say you'll definitely be having a big talk with your guy beforehand.

8. Out of control guests
And/or inebriated bridal party members causing a scene. Let's just hope your Uncle Fred can keep it together for five hours...

9. Embarrassing speeches
Under no circumstances does grandma ever need to find out about that one time you downed one too many margaritas in Vegas and hopped up on the bar only to get swiftly kicked out. Or the time your groom accidently puked all over one of your bridesmaids. Eek! Is it possible to vet speeches beforehand? Because like, that would be really, really awesome/necessary.
 

10. Screwing up the first dance
You took dance lessons for a reason, but OMG, what if you forget all the steps and totally screw up everything in front of everyone. Having to dance for an audience already gives you enough anxiety as is!

11. No one dancing
It's, like, every bride's worst fear: a completely empty dance floor and a bunch of awkwardness all around. Number one reason to hire a dope DJ, right?

12. Everyone peacing out early
What if your wedding is so boring that everyone just dips out early to go do something else? It's a totally rational but also completely irrational thought because you planned a banging big day and everyone will obvy want to stay, duh.

13. Someone trying to steal your thunder
It seems like there's always that one person at every wedding that tries to upstage the bride, and she's not always wearing white either! Maybe her dress is just more expensive than the bride's or she had her hair and makeup done professionally and looks like a runway model. Or perhaps she takes over the dance floor and has all eyes on her. Ain't no bride got time for that on her big day.

14. Bad food
Of course, you had a tasting, but what if something terrible happens and the food winds up tasting like crap the day of? What will your guests think? Ugh, hopefully the caterer gets it right...

What Should We Include in Our Non-Religious Wedding Ceremony?

Photo: Amy Nicole Photography
 

It's exciting to look forward to the reception (and that amazing dance party you've planned), but really, the most important part of your wedding day is the ceremony. If you're having a religious ceremony, it may not involve too much planning beyond choosing readers and deciding on aisle décor. But for a non-religious wedding ceremony, there are a lot more details to consider, since the format is really up to you. Where's a couple to start? Here are a few things you should make sure to include in your non-religious wedding ceremony.

Before you start adding personality to your ceremony with fillers like readings, songs, or unity rituals, make sure you've included the basics: A word of welcome from your officiant, your vows and ring exchange, and your presentation as a married couple. For a ceremony that's truly bare-bones (we're talking five minutes or less!), that's all you need. Of course, it's such a momentous occasion, and you'll want to give your ceremony a little more heft and meaning. Here are a few things you can include that will make your ceremony one to remember:

Meaningful Readings
Whether you choose a passage from your favorite book, a poem or sonnet you love, or even lines from a song, readings that hold value for the two of you will infuse your ceremony with a hint of who you are as a couple. Look for excerpts that help define what marriage means to you — not just a passage about love in general, but one that relates to your relationship and the future you hope to build together.

Guest Readers
Without a religious context in your ceremony, you have more flexibility when it comes to readers (especially if they practice a religion other than your own). Invite friends or family members who have played an important role in your relationship to share a few words, or get creative and have two readers share a passage together.

Unity Rituals
You might opt to skip a unity candle, which has roots in Christian tradition, but there are so many other symbolic practices you can weave into your event. Getting married at a vineyard? Blend together two bottles of wine, then share a glass after you exchange vows. Having your ceremony on the beach? Take turns layering different colors of sand into a glass bottle, and have your officiant explain that, just as you two are coming together, the two colors of sand can now never be truly separated. Are you the outdoorsy type? Gather jars of soil from each of your hometowns, then use it to plant a tree that can be permanently planted at your home.

Your Love Story
What's more personal than telling the story of how you met and fell in love? Work with your officiant to write an abridged version of how it all happened, with nods to special moments or events that made you realize you'd each found The One. You can also opt to include some of this in your vows, if you're writing personal ones instead of using more traditional lines.

6 Original Transportation Ideas for Your Wedding

Today is Car Collector Appreciation Day, which made us think about what an impact a couple can make by arriving to or departing from their wedding in a classic car. Sometimes it’s a touch like this that makes the most memorable moments at a wedding. If you’re thinking of arranging some fun or cool transportation ideas for your wedding, maybe one of these six ideas will hit the mark:

1. A trolley. Trolleys make a wonderful option for groups, whether you want a fun way to get your wedding party to and from the venue or if you need to shuttle your guests around. One note of caution is that most trolleys are open-air, which can get windy and possibly ruin hairstyles.



2. A boat or yacht. Arriving or departing on the water can make a dramatic and romantic impact. A boat or canoe would be a good option for the two of you, whereas a yacht would allow you to transport your guests and wedding party, too.



3. A hayride or sleigh ride. With rustic-chic weddings still so popular, a hayride would be a fun way to transport and entertain your guests. If snow’s in the forecast, a sleigh ride would be a wonderfully whimsical option instead.



4. An elephant. Arriving on an elephant’s back is a popular tradition in South Asian weddings. Talk about making a grand statement!



5. A Vespa. If you want an option that’s cute, sweet, and environmentally friendly, rent a Vespa that can cart the two of you off after the reception. Don’t forget the “Just Married” sign on the back!



6. A hot air balloon. This one can be tricky because the conditions have to be just right, but a hot air balloon departure would be simply amazing in photos. Pack some champagne and finger foods to nibble on as you both float away to begin your new life together.

Thinking Outside the Candle: Wedding Lighting You Haven’t Considered

If you’re thinking of how to make a statement at your wedding, lighting is the way to go. Very little makes as much impact, especially if you think beyond basic candles. Wondering what lighting you should use at your wedding? Maybe one of these ideas will fit the bill:

1. Gobos. A lighting gobo is a custom monogram that is usually reflected on the dance floor or one of the walls at the reception, making it a beautiful focal point. It often has the couple’s names or initials and the wedding date, and might also include a pretty embellishment that reflects the theme of the wedding.

2. Strands of twinkle lights. If you’re having an outdoor wedding, one of the simplest ways to awe your guests is to bedeck the trees with twinkle lights. You can wrap the trees or create dripping icicle-like lighting by hanging them from branches. Another thing we’ve seen couples do is bundle strands of lights under glass vessels, making it look like trapped fairy lights. So whimsical and sweet!



3. Marquees. Consider lighted signage to make a fun visual impact at your wedding. You can have the word “bar” lit up above the bar, for example. A few strategic signs will definitely draw the eye!

4. Chandeliers. You can either choose a venue that has amazing chandeliers or have a special chandelier wired somewhere in the reception as a statement piece. Directly over the sweetheart table is a suitably dramatic spot for this lighting element.

5. Paper lanterns. Numerous paper globes casting soft light offer a wonderfully romantic touch to a reception space.



6. Edison lights. The rise of rustic-chic weddings and retro styling has increased the popularity of glass Edison lights. Strings of these lights across the ceiling of your reception space will create the perfect vintage look.

7. Glowing tables. If you want to make a more understated impact with your lighting, consider placing lights under the tables so they glow from the inside-out. You can use white linens or colorful ones to enhance the glow.

8. Image projections. Lighting companies can create many different looks by projecting images like snowflakes, hearts, or other symbols around the room. These lights can transform a typical ballroom into a winter wonderland or a magical fairytale garden.

Statement Looks for All Your Wedding Needs

You’ve picked out/purchased your dream wedding dress for the big day, then it hits you… you’ll need something to wear for your bridal shower, bachelorette party, rehearsal and rehearsal dinner. Panic mode officially kicks in! But fret not, I’ve put together some statement looks that will be perfect for all your wedding events. 

Bridal Shower
Get a sophisticated look to wear the day of your bridal shower. Something that is comfortable and cute for all the pictures you’ll have. 

 
Get the Look: Dress from Black Halo, Shoes from Nine West, Purse from M2Malletier

Bachelorette Festivities
Before purchasing this dress, be sure to chat with your MOH in order to get a better feel for what type of dress you’ll need. If you are jetting off to a tropical location, something long-sleeved should be avoided… obviously.

 
Get the Look: Two Piece from Lulu’s, Shoes from Lulu’s, Necklace from Baublebar, Clutch from Macy’s  
Get the Look: Dress from For Love & Lemons, Shoes from DSW

Rehearsal + Rehearsal Dinner
Seeing as this is your test run down the aisle, you will want something a little fancier. Go with a white maxi dress (to practice how you’ll walk in your wedding gown) or something fun with peplum. Just be sure to avoid jeans and a t-shirt, especially because your photographer may be there too.

 
Get the Look: Dress from Lulu’s, Necklace from Baublebar, Clutch from Nordstrom, Shoes from DSW
Get the Look: Dress from Lulu’s, Necklace from Baublebar, Clutch from Lulu’s, Shoes from DSW

Day After (Travel Outfit)
More than likely you and your new spouse will be traveling to your honeymoon hotspot, which means you will want to be comfortable. Skip the high fashion stilettos and think in terms of easy for the airport or car.

 
Get the Look: Dress from Revolve, Shoes from DSW, Crossbody from Michael Kors, Hat from H & M  
Get the Look: Top from Magali Pascal, Shorts from , Hat from , Shirt from bella dahl

Honeymoon
Whether you are jetting off to a tropical local or hitting up a mountain town, it’s important to remember to keep your honeymoon looks comfortable and breezy. Particularly if you will be honeymooning in the summer. Beach bound? Pick up a cute all white bikini and matching cover-up. You can also pick up some casual dresses for your evenings out.

 
Get the Look: Mesh Bikini Top and Bottom from Everything but Water, Hat from Nordstrom  
Get the Look: Dress from Nordstrom, Purse from Louis Vuitton, Hat from World Market, Belt from H & M

Photo Credit:
1. Memorandum | 2. Lulu’s Tumblr | 3. Pinterest | 4. Lulu’s Tumblr | 5. Lulu’s Tumblr | 6. Pinterest | 7. Gypsy Lovin Light | 8. Southern Curls & Pearls | 9. Pinterest

First-Look Photo Ideas You’ll Love

Many of today’s couples are straying from tradition and opting to see each other before the ceremony in the form of a “first look.” There are a number of compelling reasons to have this private moment together, not the least of which is the wonderfully romantic and adorable photos you’ll get. If you’re thinking about having a first look, here are some ideas that you’ll love:

1. The umbrella. Whether it’s raining or you’re just in need of a little shade, using an umbrella or parasol to mask yourself until the big reveal makes for fun and flirty photos.

2. The reenactment. If possible, do what you can to reenact an important moment in your lives for your first look. You can have it in the place you met or set the scene to resemble where you were when you got engaged, for example.

3. The love letter. Write each other messages of love and exchange them in sealed envelopes before the big day. Then before the first look, open the letters and read them before turning around to see each other. This option is sure to bring on some happy tears, so bring the Kleenex!



4. The sneak attack. A classic first look shot is that of the bride or groom approaching their future spouse from behind. You can place your hands over his or her eyes to let them know you’re there, then turn them around for the big reveal.



5. The balloons. One of our favorite ideas is having the couple carry a bunch of balloons to the first look site. The photographer can help position you both and then give the instructions on when you should each release the balloons so you can see each other.

6. The staircase. A wonderfully romantic option is to have one member of the couple stand at the bottom of a winding staircase and then have the other member descend the stairs until he or she is in view.

7. The door. It may sound simplistic, but having one person stand in front of a closed door and having the other open the door for the first look can produce some beautiful photos, especially if the door has some character and visual charm.

8. The hand-holding. Stand on one side of an object such as a tree, column, or corner of the wall and have your future spouse stand on the other side. Get some photos of the two of you holding hands and preparing to see other for the first time before you say “I do.”

How to Plan the Perfect Pre-Wedding Girls’ Day Out

Happy National Girlfriends Day! There’s no better time to write a post about celebrating the love and friendship you share with your closest girlfriends. I think it’s a lovely idea for brides to set aside time before the wedding to have a special moment with their best gal pals, and I’m here to offer suggestions on how to plan it.

1. Find a date that works for everyone. This seems like a no-brainer, but we all know how busy life can be. I suggest scheduling this girls’ gathering well in advance so everyone can attend, especially if you have people traveling from out of town.

2. Set the budget. Every get-together should have a budget, even if you’re doing something as simple as planning an adult sleepover with movies and snacks. Considering your other wedding expenses, it’s especially important to budget for this event.

3. Decide on a theme. I don’t necessarily mean a theme with specialized décor. Consider what you and your girlfriends like to do and plan around that. Do you all love getting your nails done? Either book salon appointments or plan a DIY spa day at your house. Are you athletic? Plan a hike at the local nature preserve and bring a picnic lunch. Do you enjoy the theater? Buy tickets to the latest play and make reservations at a nice restaurant or wine bar for after the performance.

4. Arrange for transportation. Even if you won’t be drinking, it’s a wonderful touch to provide transportation to and from wherever your event will be. Depending on the size of the group, you can charter anything from an SUV to a party bus. There are plenty of options out there!

5. Give them gifts. It’s a traditional courtesy for the hostess to give out small gifts to her guests. I find this especially meaningful when it applies to a girls outing with your best friends. Think of something sweet and sentimental to give each of your girlfriends, such as a photo of the two of you, a charm that represents something significant to you both, a scrapbook page with plenty of memories, etc.
6. Enjoy every moment. Don’t get so caught up in planning and entertaining everyone that you neglect to enjoy yourself. This is meant to be a significant day for all of you. Live it up to the fullest!

Happy Birthday BFF

The bond between friends cannot be broken by chance; no interval of time or space can destroy it. Not even death itself can part true friends.  When she unexpectedly left us, a piece of my heart was forever broken

Brandy Corley is and always will be my best friend.  By the grace of God and our preschool director Mrs. Melvin putting us on the carpet together, me in the red square and her in the blue square, we became inseparable. She thought it was a great idea for us to be class buddies and we never looked back.  We did Pig Tails, Girl Scouts, Pink Nike Short Sets, summers in Campanella Park, Cheer Squad, Boyfriends, Learning to Drive, Late Night Party Line Calls, Soda Pop Club, Graduations, Babies, Careers... Everything together. We had 30 plus years of friendship, love and sisterhood. 

The moments in life that we had together can never be replaced. We smiled through our defeats, celebrated our victories, cried when we needed it and laughed until we had tears rolling down our faces.

I am truly saddened by her death… but from this sadness I have a feeling of gratitude that emerges. I feel honored to have known her and blessed that her passing serves as a reminder to me that my time on this beautiful earth is limited and that I should seize the opportunity I have to forgive easier, share more, explore the world, and love everyone around me. I can think of no greater way to honor her than to live this way. 

The weird, weird thing about devastating death is that life actually goes on. When you’re faced with a tragedy, a loss so huge that you have no idea how you can live through it, somehow, the world keeps turning, the seconds keep ticking.

The void within my soul is too deep to be filled but I know that God has a plan for all of us and my hope is that everyone take this time not to be sad but to celebrate her life and all that she did while here with us. 

I can't wait to see her again but until that day, I will keep her in my heart, speaking to her in my prayers and continue to love her as my best friend for life....

7 Creative Ways to Use Ice at Your Wedding

The idea of an ice sculpture at a wedding usually invokes a sense of opulence and indulgence. When it comes to summer weddings, though, ice is more of a necessity than a splurge! There’s more to ice than just traditional ice sculptures. Check out some of these ideas that will surely cool off your summer wedding:

1. An ice bar. This is an amazing idea if you’re serving cold food during the reception. An ice bar can be made in different sizes and can be engraved with your initials or an image of your choice. You can insert an ice luge for a creative way to serve icy cold drinks, too.

2. Ice furniture. Can you image serving up cocktails on tables made of ice? Or offering guest seating made of ice and covered with protective fabric? Talk about making a statement!

3. Ice portraits. Different from sculptures because they’re not three-dimensional, ice portraits are flat pieces of ice featuring a portrait of the two of you. If you display it near your cake table it will make a dramatic statement piece.

4. Ice wares. Serve up your signature cocktail in glasses made of ice, or have a special ice cream dessert served in bowls made of ice. You’ll definitely WOW your guests!

5. Ice curtains. Picture strands of perfectly clear globes of ice strung together and hung from the ceiling in a long cascade. This would make one of the most remarkable ceremony backdrops you’ve ever seen.

6. Ice vases. Your tables can boast unique centerpieces of ice vases carved into any shape you’d like. Chat with your florist about floral and décor options that would suit this particular ice creation.

7. A carving show. If you’re looking for some fun entertainment during your reception, hire ice carvers to come out and provide a demonstration. They can create a custom sculpture or one of the other ideas mentioned above. Keep in mind that you’ll need a large space with room for them to work.

20 Disney Love Quotes for Your Wedding

When it comes to love, the folks over at Disney sure know a thing or two about it. After all they are the ones who coined the term “and they lived happily ever after.” 

Now if you’ve been to our site before, more than likely you’ve read our other Disney Love Quote piece (which had FAB photos accompanying it). This one is a little less WOW and a bit more helpful. What do I mean by that? Well, aside from the actual quotes, I wanted to help navigate where the quotes can be used in your wedding. Below is a list of excellent placement for one (or several) of these Disney quotes:

On your invitations, whether that be at the top or bottom.

Recited in your wedding vows.

Displayed on the welcome table.

On a sign that your flower girl or ring bearer carries.

On your wedding website.

Used as table names.

Printed on your program.

On the cover of your wedding photo album (after the wedding).

On post wedding announcements.

On your Thank You cards.

“To face the future with another, who means more than any other, is to be loved.” – The Rescuers 

 

“So this is love, so this is what makes life divine.” – Cinderella

“Now I’m in a whole new world with you.” – Aladdin

“One song, my heart keeps singing, of one love only for you.” – Snow White

“As sure as rivers flow, I’ll never let you go.” – Pete’s Dragon

“I know you, I walked with you once upon a dream.” – Sleeping Beauty

“This is the miracle I’ve been dreaming of.” – Cinderella

“I don’t know when, I don’t know how, but I know something’s starting right now.” – The Little Mermaid

“I wouldn’t have nothing if I didn’t have you.” Monsters, Inc.

“You are my greatest adventure.” – The Incredibles

“We’re simply meant to be.” – Nightmare Before Christmas

“When you wish upon a star, your dreams come true.” – Pinocchio

“Side by side with your loved one, you’ll find enchantment here.” – Lady and the Tramp

“They say if you dream about something more than once, it’s sure to come true.” – Sleeping Beauty

“Each happy ending’s a brand new beginning.” – Enchanted

“My love for you will always burn.” – Pete’s Dragon

“You are my new dream.” – Tangled

“Together there’s no end to what our dream can start.” – Pocahontas: Journey to a New World

“Any day spent with you is my favorite day.” – Winnie the Pooh

“Love goes on and on.” – Robin Hood