What to Delegate

Planning your wedding can at times feel very overwhelming. Especially if you have a giant checklist before you that has barely been started.  Well any good leader will tell you - it's time to delegate.  Now I know that if you are a control freak or what I like to call myself, 'a detail oriented' person, then you will want to have say in every part of your wedding.  And while you may not want anyone but you and your fiance to choose the flower arrangements or your photographer, there are several tasks you can easily delegate among your wedding party, family and friends.

Wedding Favors
   Don't be afraid to have some of your friends help you choose your wedding favors. Have them stick to your theme and budget and take the pressure of researching off of you.  If you are making your own favors - even better! Throw a little pizza party for your girlfriends and invite them over to help with your craft project or bake cookies for your guests. (Make sure they know that's what the party is for.)

Making the Emergency Kit
   Simply give your check list to a bridesmaid and request they pull all these item together for you. A simple trip to the drugstore can pull all this together. Just make sure that this person is someone who will be with you while you get ready - when u will likely need a majority of these items. (Please don't expect them to pay out of pocket though. This little emergency kit should be a part of the misc section of your budget.)

Transportation
  Who is in charge of picking up grandmom? This is something that many couples forget about until last minute.  And getting you and your guests from one location to the next can be sometimes be tricky.  If you are looking to save some money on transportation, it is still a good idea to have a few people in charge of getting your wedding party around.  So you can delegate a few people with reliable cars to be in charge of driving.  You will also need someone to help you plan out the easiest route for your guests to follow.
  Even if you decide to rent a bus, van or limo for your guests, having someone (especially if they have already planned their own wedding.) help you find a transportation company will be helpful.
   And let's not forget about grandmom?! You may also need to make sure those elderly guests that do not drive have a way to and from your event. Grandmom may not want to party all night long, so keep that in mind.

Flowers
  You may not want to have someone pick out the arrangements for you. But you may need to have flowers moved from the ceremony site to the reception. This is an easy job to delegate.

Set Up
  So when the day has arrived, there is much to do. And you cannot be at the salon or hotel room getting your hair done and setting up the ceremony and receptions sites at the same time. You may not even be able to approve of the final set up before guest arrive. But there are many people around you that have seen your idea boards and been with you while planning.  Unless you have hired a coordinator or your florist to do the set up work for you, it's a good idea to have a handful of trusted friends to work the set up so you can sit and relax. If you have specific ideas, let them know ahead of time. And part of delegating is trusting them to help get it done.

After the wedding day:

Returning the Rented Gear
  Make sure you know what arrangements may need to be made regarding rented chairs, tables, sound systems, linens etc. Check with the rental company about when these items need to be returned and who is responsible for that.  Also check with your location. They may need to have these items removed that night so they can have the space available for another event.  Delegating a wedding party member or close friend to follow up on this after the wedding is very helpful.
 Rented gear also includes the tuxedos/suits & shoes to the shop. It's always helpful to have a plan about their return before the wedding day. This way all the guys know what to do with them. Delegating someone be in charge of these items is a definite way to ensure you get your deposits back on any rented gear and for you to head off to your honeymoon without any worries.

Thanks to all who helped
   Remember, if you are going to delegate, you are giving that person the control. Trust they will take care of it. Breathing down their necks about it won't win you any more favors in the future. Make sure they know you appreciate their help. A little note to thank them can go a long way. You may also want to consider giving a special thank-you speech during the reception to acknowledge all your helpers.
  And if you are a super detail oriented person and having trouble letting go, talk with your friends. Consulting friends who have been through this process will give you pointers on what else you can delegate. But remember don't ask for advise unless you are willing to listen.

Helpful tips:

 Equipment you may need to Rent

Cost of a Wedding

Wedding Day Emergency Kit

  As the 'Big Day' get closer and closer, there are a million little details that can go running through your head. This includes all the little things that can go wrong. So why not be prepared?  A great way to take care of some of the minor mishaps is to create a 'Wedding Day Emergency Kit'.
  For years, every time I worked on a photo shoot set I would pack my 'Set Emergency Kit'.  For me that included things like mini A-claps, double sided tape, bandages, and safety pins.  And I can't tell you how many times I was able to come to the rescue with my little kit.  And even today I carry a few safety pins, tissues, mints and bandages in my photo bag to weddings. You never know when you might need to save a bridesmaid from runny makeup or a mom from a runaway hemline.

So here is a list of must-haves in your Wedding Day Emergency Kit:

1. Sewing kit with needle, thread, buttons and safety pins in various sizes.
2. Toupee tape for keeping clothes in place.
3. Scissors
4. Stick-on instant hemming tape.
5. Clear nail polish (for runs) and nail polish in the shade you are wearing.
6. White chalk for masking stains (baby powder and baby wipes also are great to have for this too.)
7. Bandages
8. Blister protection
9. Antacid
10. Breath mints
11. Pain reliever

12. Cotton swabs
13. Blotting papers
14. Tweezers
15. Emery board
16. Lip Balm and a clear lip gloss
17. Mini Tissue packets
18. Bobby pins and hair elastics
19. Comb
20. Powder to help eliminate shine

21. Small mirror
22. Hairspray (Note: hair spray will help eliminate static on your veil in a pinch.)
23. Lint brush
24. Straws (to drink from before the ceremony)
25. Pencils (or rather eraser - in case you need to make an extra earring back.)
26. Lotions
27. Tampons or pads
28. Tooth Paste and tooth brush
29. Sunscreen
30. Deodorant
31. Crazy glue (No one ever mentions this in their check lists. But what happens if you break a nail or a heel? - crazy glue to the rescue!)

Click here for a checklist of other not-to-forget items.

Tattoos : To Cover or Not to Cover?

  Many people have tattoos nowadays. And a commonly asked question for brides is 'should I cover it up on my wedding day?'  Well I say if you still love your body artwork and consider it very much a part of who your are then let it show.  There is no point in hiding who you are on your wedding day.

 But if you are having a formal wedding or just prefer your grandmother-in-law not know about the giant skull tattoo you have on your back from your renegade days in college - then go ahead and cover.  You can choose a dress that will cover over your art. Another way to keep from sacrificing your current fashion choice from your past, is to check out some makeup concealers. The two popular ones I hear about are Dermablend and Covermark. Other popular selections are Secret Camouflage by Laura Mercier and Tattoo Camo.

  And as with your makeup and hair, it is always a good idea to test out the product way in advance. Make sure it won't be rubbing off on your dress, the guests you hug or disappear while you bust your moves on the dance floor.

Wedding Books

I spent some time in the bookstore the other evening and came across a few wedding books for you to check out.

Simply Stunning Weddings / Wedding Chic by Colin Cowie

The Knot Magazine / Weddings by Tara Guerard

Simply Stunning Wedding Etiquette / In Style Weddings

The Right Wedding Dress for You

  With so many beautiful dresses out there to choose form, how do you know where to start? I know it;s important that you find a dress that fits your style but it's even more important that you have a dress that you feel comfortable in.  Some brides know when they try a dress on that it's 'the one'.  But how do you even know which dresses to try on?  Pouring through websites and magazines is a great way to see what is out there. But keep in mind the dress in the magazine you love, may not be the right style for your body type. 
 I did a little research to find out what the experts suggest works best & what to avoid. 


Curvy/Full Figure
    So if you are they type of gal to have curves in all the right places - if you want to show them off with a mermaid/trumpet silhouetted gown.  Many dress fitting experts recommend the A-line style dress with a drop waist for those who want a more simplified.  Designers often pair this shape with a sweet heart neckline. Just be careful not to have a neckline that dives to far down. You want your guests to be looking at your face too. 

Pear-Shaped
  An A-line cut is also a flattering shape for those of you with pear-shape. The waistline of the dress should be at your natural waistline, to help accentuate your narrow midsection and smooth out the hip line. Avoid clingy fabrics and mermaid skirts and bows along your hip line. 

Apple-Shaped
 If you want to hide your tummy, search for styles that have beading or tight ruching around the waistline. You will also want to choose a style with a more conservative neckline like a scoop or v-neck.  Wide straps on your dress will help to balance out your figure and also allow you to wear a bra without issues. Avoid off the shoulder necklines and too high necklines. And flaunt 'em if you got 'em! Don't be afraid to show off those fantastic legs with a shorter hemline either. (just stay away from a short trumpet skirt. You want to avoid making your best attribute look wider at the knee.)

Petite
  Be careful of your hemline. Too long or too short can cause your legs to look shorter then you are. For longer length gowns consider a trumpet skirt that hugs your frame. And for the layered look be sure to stick to light fabrics like lace and tulle. V-shaped necklines help to elongate your torso and give the appearance of height. Check out the sheath, trumpet and a modified A-line gown. Watch out for dresses with a lot of detailing at the hemline. This can cause you to look weighed down.  Be sure to avoid heavy looking accessories, big bows and too much jewelry.  When selecting your flowers, consider a smaller bouquet, as to not cover up your petite frame. 

Tall & Slender
  Think simple. If you want to accentuate your lean form, choose a flowing silhouette. Choosing one made of silk will allow your dress to be less formal and add some sex appeal. But if you want to play down your height, choose a dress style with added volume instead. By selecting a defined high-waisted skirt, you will give the illusion of having more curves. For a long sleeved dress, make sure the sleeves fit all the way to your wrist. When if comes to your accessories avoid the obvious - high heels, and super up-do hair style not cause attention to your height.

Busty
   As a bride you want people to notice your pretty face. Busty girls should look for scoop neck gowns to help display your cleavage but not show off too much. For a strapless gown, consider one with a slight dip  (sweetheart) and not a plunging neckline. You want to feel comfortable out on the dance floor, and not need to worry about constantly pulling up your dress or worse - falling out. You also want to avoid choosing a straight line for your strapless dress & looking like you have a uniboob (yes I said it!)  So avoid ruching, satin and silk along your bustline. 

Small Chested
   Extra fabric at the top helps, so check out dresses with a ruched bodice and halters with some extra padding. Having a good bra can help add a nice push up when it comes to strapless or backless dresses. If you can't find the right bra, consider the self-adhesive silicone cups.

Plus-Sized / Curvy All Over
  Empire dresses were made for you. With a waistline that flows just under the bust line to a nice soft A-line to the floor. Avoid waistlines that start directly underneath the chest. Instead choose a dress with a band if fabric under the bust line and a skirt that starts under that. Avoid any type of pleats and a too loose fabric. The dress should have some structure and provide a slimming shape while appearing light. Accessories should be understated.  

For more information on finding the right fit here are a few helpful links:
Your Wedding Dress: Find the Right Fit
Choose the Perfect Wedding Dress For You Body Type
Best Wedding Dress Shape for You
Choosing a Figure Flattering Wedding Gown

Planning A Destination Wedding

Deciding to plan your wedding in a foreign location can be a really fun way to celebrate your special day. But where do you begin? Here are a few simple tips to help you get started.


Regulations
  OK I know this is starting off with the nitty-gritty.  But this is all something that will need to be considered when planning and budgeting for a destination wedding. So here goes, let's get this out of the way. Every state/country/island has their own requirements and licenses that are necessary to be legitimately married there. To check out some of the latest regulations at your destination of choice visit LoveTripper.com  And be sure to follow up to determine if there is additional red tape once you are back in your home state/country that will need to be taken care of. (ie blood work tests & additional costs/fees) 


Weather
  Make sure you check the seasonal weather in the month you are planning to be wed.  You don't want to spend months planning your event only to have to deal with weather issues like hurricanes or extraordinary heat/cold. 
  Check out the local events. Make sure it's not spring break season as flights and hotels will be more expensive. 


Visit the Location
  As romantic as a destination wedding sounds, its always a good idea to add to your budget a plan to visit the location ahead of time. You don't want to show up a few days before your wedding with 50 guests in tow only to find that the photo on the resort's website is outdated or your dreamy resort is partly under construction.
   It is also a good idea to consider using a local event coordinator. They will be able to refer you to local vendors with whom they have worked with before and know how to get special deals for you and your guests on food and hotel. If they are familiar with working with out of towners (which should be one of your requirements) then all the better. They should be familiar with local customs, and speak both english and the local language. 
   When visiting, plan to meet with as many vendors as possible. It's always a good idea to see them face-to-face. You will feel better knowing who they are ahead of your big day. 


Budget
  Decide how much you and your fiance will be spending on your wedding. Stick to your budget. If you are spending more in one area, know that you will need to spend less in another area. Destination weddings are a great way to help trim your guest list and keep the budget in check. Just don't forget to pad the amount and add room for incidentals (forgotten tooth brush etc). Don't forget to ask about additional fees the hotel may have (ie transportation fees and departure taxes.) Check out special deals for dining and consider using local markets for picnic lunches and local restaurants not on the resort. (also be aware of the safety of the area. Some locales although beautiful at the resort are not safe for travel beyond.)
   Whenever possible, always use a credit card when traveling international. Credit cards shop for the best currency rates and can help save you money. And speaking of money - having all your money cash leaves too many opportunities for theft to occur. Credit cards, if lost or stolen can be replaced. 


Your Stuff
   Don't forget when planning everything out, that you will have to bring it all with you. So consider shipping some items ahead of you or buying things local. Special linens and paper goods that are nicer then the standard stock white linens the hotel offers can be easily shipped back and forth.
  Very important items like your dress, shoes and jewelry should be in your carry-on, to be sure of it's arrival. Having to replace your dress three days before your wedding day will cause more stress then having to forego fancy table linens. 


Guest List
  When planning your guest list, try to keep it simple.  You can't assume that because your wedding is far away that your guests will not come. Choosing a really great location is enticing for many guests to want to go so don't be surprised if they all show up.  (Plan on at least 70 percent to be coming).


Save-the-Date
  Mailing out your Save-the-Date cards six months in advance is a great idea. This will give your guests a chance to plan ahead their vacation time,  search out good deals & begin to budget for the trip.  


Who Pays
  Typically guests should expect to pay for their own travel expenses. But to help out your guests, pricing out airfare and hotel should be researched ahead of time for them to give an idea of what they could be spending.  Many hotels will allow for special rates if there is a chance they can book a block of rooms out. Call ahead to see if any of the local hotels can give you and your guests a deal. (Can't get the deal if you don't ask.) It's also a good idea to search out 3 different price points for your guests to choose from.  Be sure to check on the transportation arrangements. (IE if the hotel offers pick ups at the airport to hotel.)
  Also consider hiring a travel consultant if you are concerned with the logistics and finding great rates. (especially if you have guests traveling from different parts of the world.)
  While the guests are paying for their own travel arrangements, it is expected for the bride & groom to pay for tab for food and beverages. Having your wedding at an all-inclusive resort can help with the cost. 


Rehearsal Dinner  Questions
  Now normally, your entire wedding party is invited to your rehearsal dinner, but do you have to invite everyone else? In a destination wedding situation, it is proper etiquette to invite all your guests since they have traveled far to see you. This will have to be included in your budget if planning this.  But in the end, if this is not realistic for your budget, simply just invite the wedding party and your closest family to the dinner. But extending and invitation for cocktails after the dinner is a great way to keep your guests included and show your appreciation for coming.

Showers & Gifts 
  Inviting guests to your shower and not your wedding is considered very poor etiquette. But the exception to the rule is the destination wedding. Just be sure that the person planning the event/shower politely informs your guests that the actual wedding is a very intimate affair and only a small number of people will be attending. 
  When planning your gift registration, be sure to leave out that information in your invitations. Instead assign a family member or someone in the bridal party to help spread the word. Also know that guests may not want to bring the glassware they bought all the way to another country and worry about how you will get it back.  Expect to receive gifts delivered to your home instead. 


Special Thanks
  Make sure to show your guests how much you appreciate them travelling and giving up vacation time to be at your wedding day. It's always a good idea to have a special party favor that they can cherish.  Also if everyone is staying at the same hotel, arranging a special gift basket at the front desk at check-in is a great way to start off their trip! Creating a themed welcome basket to have in their rooms for arrival including maps, coupons and  a list of local activities available will get things started off for an event they will never forget!


Have fun!
   Things may not all go exactly as planned. Things can happen. But staying positive and having a great energy will allow your guests to do the same. The wedding day is about you and your fiance and not the color of the flowers or the appetizer that wasn't quite what you ordered.  Just roll with it. You will be laughing about that on the plane ride home.

Budget-Saving Tip of the Week: Bridal Gown

You don't have to spend an enormous amount on your wedding gown to find the one of your dreams. (See blog post about custom dress finds on etsy.com) There are several ways to save. 

Can you say 'Sample Sale'?

  Back in the day I worked for a retail store, whose corporate office just happened to be down the street.  And what was better then a discount at the store? Sample sales! held in the early hours before opening. (and yes when in college 7am is early). But talk about deals! I once purchased a $250 comforter for $5. Now you may not be able to find a wedding gown for $5 but you can find some incredible deals out there if you are willing to search them out. Samples sales are held by retailers such as Filene's Basement and sites like Scarlett's Closet & PreOwned Wedding Dresses .

  Be aware, that often sample sales do not have an abundance of sizes in the style you like. So having the dress altered will need to be a part of your budget as well.

Have you ever heard of a Trunk Show?
  Well most bridal boutiques carry select designers that they work with. Think of a trunk show as a nicer sample sale.  A trunk show offers special discounts during the show only. Even designers like Vera Wang have trunk shows. Here you will get a chance to browse all the dresses, sometimes ever before they are available to the public. And there is someone at a trunk show (unlike a sample sale) that will help you try on and find a dress to fit your style.  There are trunk shows throughout the year, but a majority of these shows will occur between Jan & Mar as the designers & dress shops prepare for the launch of the bridal season.  Trunk shows are by appointment only and book fast. If for some reason you cannot make your appointment, be courteous and cancel. This will allow another bride to take your place.

There are a few tips to remember when shopping a sample sale or a trunk show:

* Begin by looking around at the designers and style to find out which is most appealing to you and which fall within your budget.

* Be prepared to buy the dress. If you find 'the one' now is the chance to get it. You won't be likely to repeat this type of discount at another time. However, if you are unsure about it, do not allow yourself to be pressured into making hasty decisions. Be 100% about your purchase.

* Bring two of your most trusted friends who know you well enough to help with this important decision. It can be tempting to bring more then two, but as they say 'too many cooks spoil the broth' and this can lead to a stressful time with too many questions and too many opinions.

* There are more then just dresses at a trunk show! If you already have the dress or are looking for it all, there are also accessories from jewelry to bridesmaids dresses, veils to shoes. (And of we love shoes!)

To find out when the next trunk show is, just check out a touring list of your favorite designers to find out when they will be in your area next. 

Rent or Borrow

   Or even buy one second hand. You can search out dresses on Ebay and Craigslist for great deals. I have already seen postings for a never-worn dress from someone who ended up with two after changing her mind.

  

Philanthropy 

 You can find the dress of your dreams and help out a cause at the same time by buying a from sites that support a cause. For example: www.bridesagainstbreastcancer.org    Or www.bridalgarden.org in New York City features bridal gowns by some of the top designers. The proceeds go to one of the designer's favorite charities.

   Check out more bridal dress inspirations and ideas at the Lovely Bride Blog

(And Even if you don't find your dream gown at a charity site, you can still choose to give back and donate your gown or bridesmaid's dresses. Want to wear your gown again? Check out this blog post)

Do I have to invite them?

So you want to plan an intimate wedding with your closest family & friends and don't know who you have to invite.  

Distant Relatives
  If you have not heard from your dad's distant cousin since you were seven years old, it's not likely she will be upset if you do not invite her.  But if your great aunt remembers your birthday every year, it's usually a good idea to invite her.

Work Colleagues
  You may spend about fifty hours a week sitting across the office from them, but do you really want them at your wedding? And if you invite one do you have to invite them all? You can feel relived to know that you don't have to. But the few who have become a part of your outside world, you may want to consider. If someone at the office asks why they were not invited, just let her know that you just couldn't invite everyone you hoped to & you still value her friendship. 

Single Guests & a Date
  Do you have to invite a +1 for your single friends?  The shortest answer is no. But excluding someone that means a lot to a friend may end up with hurt feelings. So if you only have a handful of single friends, it is always a nice gesture to allow them to bring a guest. This is especially true if your friends are traveling from out of town. 

Children
   If you do not include the name of the children on the invitation, you guests should know that kids are not invited. But if you have family or friend that you know may show up with kids in tow, don't be afraid to take a passive-aggressive approach. Simply call to let them know that several other guests have called to ask about children and you wanted to let them know. 

Wedding Budget Worksheet

I just found an awesome downloadable worksheet that can help brides-to-be keep there budgets on track. Go to Real Simple to download your copy!

When Do I Book My Vendors? Pt4

Fourth Wedding Planning Timeline

How exciting! You are almost there! And it may feel overwhelming right now. But hopefully you have been following the planning tips and previous wedding planning schedule - and are right on time.

Month Before

* Get your marriage license. This process differs depending on your county and state. 

* Have your 3rd dress fitting.  You may also want to schedule this the week before for peace of mind unless your dress fits perfectly at this 3rd fitting

* Enter your RSVP's into you guest list database. Don;t be afraid to call those who you have not heard from.

* Mail out the rehearsal dinner invites.

* Order the alcohol. Since your headcount is complete, you can have an accurate order.

* Mail out your final payments to vendors. You don't want to be worrying about making payments the week or day of. 

* Confirm your hair and makeup appointments.

* Get your hair cut and colored if necessary.

* Send out the directions to all those who are drivers of the wedding party and family. Rented cars, chauffeurs will have time to organize their route.

* Organize a seating chart. Make this chart first on a board & guest names on sticky notes. This way you can move them around until you have a completed arrangement.

* Write your vows! If you are choosing to write your own vows - now is a great time to do it. Don't wait until the night before! 

Week of

* Send the final guest count to your caterer and the venue coordinator & your personal coordinator. Most venue need to know this 72 hours before your wedding.

* Delegate smaller wedding tasks to your wedding party and friends. IE who will carry the flowers from the church to the reception, who will bustle the dress, who is in charge of gifts, and someone to hand out tips to your vendors. (If you hired a coordinator, they also may be able to handle some of the smaller details depending on what you agreed on.)

* Confirm the arrival time with all your vendors if they haven't called you to check in.

* Make arrangements to pick up or have delivered your dress.

* Wear your wedding day shoes around to help break them in. Try to dance in them! 

* Check in with your photographer on the list of important photographs and family members

* Organize tips for your vendors to be given out day-of

* Book a massage or spa treatment, manicure etc to help you relax

* Assemble your welcome baskets for out-of-town guests

* Confirm your honeymoon arrangements & pack for your trip.

For other monthly planning tasks to help keep you on schedule:

 Sixteen to Nine Months

Eight Months

Seven to Six Months

Five to Four Months

Three Months

Two Months

Month Before

Week of Your Wedding

When Do I Book My Vendors? Pt3

A continuation on this weeks tip: Wedding Planning Timeline

Three Months 

* Finalize the flowers and the menu. (Season choices will help keep down the cost)

* Finalize your schedule. Make sure you know the timeline of your ceremony and reception.

* Now is a good time to send this timeline to your vendors. Giving them a preview of the schedule will allow them to suggest changes for a better flow.

* Make your list of all the people giving readings at the ceremony and speeches at the reception. 

* Print your programs and menus. (You can choose to make something simple on your home computer if this is not within your stationary budget.)

* Order or make your favors. This is where you can be creative. (See our latest DIY favors/placement cards art project)

* Have your second dress fitting. Purchase your undergarments. (Save the cut-off fabric from your dress! This can be used creatively as a wrap for your flowers or another decorative detail. IE a small bag.)

* Buy your rings! Doing this now will allow time for resizing.

Two Months

* Meet with your DJ/band. This is the time to review the playlist. Now remember, you cannot dictate every song that is played. But you can suggest nicely that the band or DJ pick up a few songs not in their normal playlist.

* Meet with your photographer. If you like, schedule a walk-thru and suggest locations for photographs.

* Touch base with all your vendors about the schedule. You can do this via a quick phone call, or schedule a lunch for them to all meet up at. 

* Submit your wedding announcement to the newspaper. (Check with the publication about the photograph used as some have strict rules about this)

* Send your invitations! Mailing your invitations now allows for guest to make travel arrangements if necessary.  Set your RSVP for roughly 3 weeks after the postmarked date.

* Enjoy your bachelorette party! Feel free to suggest this idea to your friends if they haven't mentioned it. They will want to celebrate your upcoming-big day too!

For other monthly planning tasks to help keep you on schedule:

 Sixteen to Nine Months

Eight Months

Seven to Six Months

Five to Four Months

Three Months

Two Months

Month Before

Week of Your Wedding

Wedding Inspiration of the Day: DIY Seating Place Cards

Spring is bloom! And the celebrate, here is a little bit of inspiration from Mother Nature!

This is a very easy DIY project! If you are not the crafty type - no worries! This is so easy!  You will only need to following supplies:

Hot Glue Gun (with glue sticks)

A pair of Paper Edging Scissors (approx. $2 ea)

12x12"  Scrapbooking paper ($.89 to $2 per sheet)

A few sheets of heavy weight printer paper 8.5x11"(I suggest buying an off-white or textured paper)

Fresh, dried or fake flowers (depending how far in advance you want to make these)

Roll on Tape  (roughly $3)

Box of Toothpicks (at any grocery store $.89)

Spanish Moss ($1.25 - $4 depending on quantity needed)

Small 2" flower pots (found on Ebay for $.99/ bulk also available)

A printer available for printing heavier weight papers

(Note most of these supplies can be purchased at www.createforless.com)

First Step: I designed a quick spread sheet using Microsoft Excel. Each column I made 2"Wx1.25"H.  I choose a font that I liked (or in your case matches you wedding theme/stationary.)  You can take the guest list information directly from your RSVP list so you know how many you will be making.  (Don't forget to select the option for 'Border-Type'  in your formatting palette so you have a cut-guide). Print on the heavy-weight  printer paper.  Ok so the hardest part is done!

Second Step: Use the edging scissors (available in all sorts of patterns), cut on the inside of your guide line. Then measure and cut the patterned paper (3"Wx 2.25"H). Use the roll-on tape to adhere the two pieces of paper together.

Third Step: Having your hot glue gun ready, use a small dab to glue the toothpick to the back of your paper. Rotate the toothpick in a circle so that the glue blob is all around the toothpick.

Fourth Step: Loosely stuff some of your spanish moss into your pot. If you are concerned about the moss staying in the pot, you can always place a little dab of hot glue into the sides of the pot near the bottom.

Fifth Step: Place your now dry card-on-toothpick into your pot.  And Whaalaah! you are done!

You can also choose to use live plants, succulents or fresh herbs instead of fake potted plants. And then your placement card becomes a favor to your guests as well!

If you have any questions about this DIY project or have ideas of your own you would like to share, please email me at ArtfulBride@gmail.com .

Time-Saving Tip: Wedding Vendors

Here is a little time-saving tip....

When it comes to booking your vendors, it is always a good idea to get as much general information & availability as you can. (whether it be via word-of-mouth, their website, email or a quick phone call.) This will help you determine who is in your price range and the services that are available through them. Once you have your selection narrowed down, choose 3 vendors from that category to meet face-to-face. (ie catering, music, stationary, cake, photography etc). This way the meetings will be about finding your favorite.  Who do you feel most comfortable with?  You will be dealing with your vendors, not just for one day, but during the weeks leading up to your event, and some vendors (ie video &  photography) after your big day for continued service.  So it is really important you feel comfortable with this person.

Happy hunting... I will continue to post more information on how to select your vendors, questions you should be asking them & general price range and service options throughout this blog.  I will also be interviewing established vendors for advice and tips to consider while planning.

When Do I Book My Vendors? Pt2

Seven to Six Months

* Begin to organize your wedding day timeline. For example, what time will the cake cutting be? (Don't forget to include when you expect your vendors to be on site.)

* This is the time you will want to select your invitation design & get your order out to the calligrapher.

* Mail out your Save-the-Dates.

* Meet with your officiant to map out the ceremony and organize all the official documents you will need. (This varies on the county and religion. A counseling session may also be required.)

* Book your florist.

* Time to get the girls together to shop for your bridesmaids gowns.

* Book your transportation for your day of. (limo or buses, classic cars, shuttles etc.)

* Book any additional necessities for your location. IE lighting components, portable toilets etc.

* Start Planning your honeymoon! You will find better deals available by booking airfare and hotels in advance.

Five to Four Months

* Check in on your wedding invitations. Request your samples & make any revisions necessary.

* Shop for your shoes and have your first dress fitt

ing. Don't forget to bring the shoes so the length of your gown can be determined.

* Time to order the cake! Test 3 different bakers. Be aware that some bakers require more of a lead time then others.

* Compile your song list to coordinate with the events of the day.

* Book your rehearsal and the rehearsal dinner plans.

* Find your hairdresser and makeup artist. Make a few appointments to try out a few on days when you have plans out. This will be a good test to see if the style lasts. And be sure to take a snapshot of the do & makeup for the wedding day.

* Plan out the goodies you will be including in your welcome baskets for out-of-town guests.

* Forward your guest list to your bridal shower planner.

For other monthly planning tasks to help keep you on schedule:

 Sixteen to Nine Months
Eight Months
Seven to Six Months
Five to Four Months

Three Months

Two Months

Month Before

Week of Your Wedding

Inspiration in Blue and Yellow