Before You Say I Do....

Well, we are in the middle of my 3rd child’s upcoming wedding plans. And what is amazing, is that it has even gotten MORE expensive then it was nearly 3 years ago when my last child got married. So, now we are trying to figure out how the heck to pay for this one! And, this brings me to this blog topic. Who is going to pay? Not the best topic, but we have to discuss this.

Nowadays, probably because people get married much later in life generally speaking, the bride and groom pay for much of or all of the wedding. But, there are other options, and there are pros and cons to all of them.

Traditionally, the bride’s parents pay for the wedding. What’s great about this is that they pay and you don’t start your lives with a huge bill or savings-less. BUT, (look at the caps!), normally, the one that pays, usually gets what they want. So, if you want a smaller wedding and they want more guests, guess who wins? This will help your wallet, but it may do you in emotionally. And the worse thing you want at this point in your life is to have issues with your parents or have it cause problems with your fiancée and/or future in-laws.

Okay, I’ve talked you out of that one. Another option is that it’s split between the two sets of parents and the happy couple. This works really well if you have parents that can compromise. The key to this is the personalities. This can work amazingly or it can be a disaster. Only you both know that.

What’s great about this idea is that you may be able to get more of what you want. And this will help you save money. But there is a downside to this also. Any amount of money that people put in will give them a say. That isn’t always a problem though. Many times this causes them to help out and takes pressure off the bride and groom.

There is another option though. So tuned in to tomorrow’s blog and find out!
Much happiness coming your way,

Bella
Unique Wedding Favors

Posted by Bella Bridal at 6:59 PM | Permalink | Comments

Okay, now that you have read the first two installments on avoiding wedding disasters, here is the 3rd and last one.

Yes, your wedding is a celebration, but it’s also a symbol of putting childhood things behind and becoming an adult with all the responsibilities that come with that. Again, and I’ve said this several times already, remember, it is your wedding. You’re an adult, and you need to (nicely!) take control of your own life. Do what feels right to you. Get people’s suggestions, but make sure that they now, right from the getgo, that you have specific ideas and you’d like to make sure that they happen.

That being said, don’t get “stuck”. Listen to parents, relatives and friends. Give it some thought, even if it’s just for 15 minutes. Embrace their ideas, then dispose of them if, after awhile, you still don’t want to go that way. And if you respect who is saying, weigh it heavily, especially if it is suggested to you out of first hand experience.

This next suggestion is very important. After spending days upon days planning and working toward your wedding, take a weekend and get away, either alone or with a couple of friends. Honestly, this is not only good when planning a wedding, but under any stressful circumstances. You can’t imagine how your perspective changes when you get in a different environment.

Keep a sense of humor. Laugh when you want to scream. If you can do that, you will sail through this time of your life and enjoy every moment.

Don’t just plan the wedding, plan your life together! Remember, the wedding lasts one day. Hopefully, your marriage will last forever. Get together with your future spouse and promise not to discuss the wedding. Talk about your future together – if/when you’ll have kids, your careers, if you want to buy a home and when, where you’ll be living, etc. Actually, that’s more important than that swift 10 hour day.

Last but not least, get your unique wedding favors early! You don’t want to have that stress you out last minute! Hey, take a look at this one from my website. This letter opener is one of my most popular wedding favors. People will have it and think of your special day for years to come.

I got married many years ago, married off two daughters, and I’ve been an integral part of over a hundred weddings. If you listen to my advice that I have given you over the last 3 blogs, you will be shocked at the stress that will be alleviated.
Much happiness coming your way,
Bella
Unique Wedding Favors

Posted by Bella Bridal at 2:22 PM | Permalink | Comments

Okay – let me be pretty frank here. This is part 2 right? So I’m going to get right into it.

Mom and Dad are paying most of the bills for the wedding. They feel that since they are “dishing it out”, they are allowed to do and say what they want. This can result in the worse kind of power struggle for a young couple about to embark on a new life together. To the parents: if you’re going to pay for the wedding, then PAY for the wedding. Don’t expect doing that to give you free reign over everyone and everything. To the bride and groom: if this is what it turns into, RUN! Get married in a field of flowers on somebody’s farm before you should allow yourself to go through this torture. It’s not worth it…believe me.

Let’s talk a little bit more about money. Unfortunately, finances has probably caused more marriage breakups than any other issues. Don’t start out with yourselves in debt. If you have to charge a few things here and there, that’s fine. But make a decision how much you are going to spend and stick to it! Come up with a budget and consider that your ultimate guideline. You will thank me for this piece of advise in years to come.

To family and friends: give the future bride and groom the best gift you can give – let them be. Please be understanding. Please let them have “their” day. It seems to me that most people use those words, but truly don’t understand the meaning. Don’t try to live through them or dictate to them what you happen to want for their wedding. If they’re old enough to get married, they are old enough to make these decisions. Guidance is not dictatorship.

Yes, I know. For those that are parents and loved ones, this blog was not the most subtle. But please understand, as a wedding consultant, I’ve seen too many weddings go sour because of people’s interference. Don’t let it happen to you. Avoid this wedding disaster.

And tomorrow, besides Part 3 to this topic, I will discuss unique wedding favors. Promise!

Much happiness coming your way,
Bella
Unique Wedding Favors

Posted by Bella Bridal at 8:24 AM | Permalink | Comments

Oh boy…what a topic! If I wanted to, I’d spend the time sharing with you of my own wedding disaster over 25 years ago. Thank God the marriage didn’t turn out like the day did! Now that I think of it, that’s probably why I do what I do…to stop that from happening to anybody else’s wedding!

Look, the process of planning of wedding invites all kinds of disasters. It can lead to arguments with your future spouse (usually over finances), it can cause discomfort between you and those you chose for you wedding party, future in-laws issues, blah blah blah. And believe me, it happens to everyone, so for the next 3 days, I’m going to dedicate this blog to this topic. Honestly, I don’t know why I hadn’t done this sooner!

First things first – let’s talk about you, the bride. There is a reality show on TV right now called “Bridezilla”. OMG! I want to smack those girls silly. Watch this show and just do the opposite of everything they do. That in itself will alleviate tons of potential disasters.

Secondly, be careful who you give control over to. You don’t need to please anyone. This is your special day – not your mother’s, aunt’s, sister’s, friend’s or future mom-in-law’s day. It’s yours. To avoid problems, don’t say yes to everything IF you don’t agree with it just to be nice and get everyone involved. You will regret this and you will resent those that take over. Be nicely firm. You’ll be happy you did when your day rolls around.

On the other hand, ask your family and friends to help with some of the planning and running around. Those that love you will want to help. Just make sure that you keep control, especially when it has to do with the moms. I love them…in fact I am one. But I’ve seen too many weddings ruined because of in-law battles. If your mom is different, you’re blessed. Then involve her all the way, along with the aid of those that will do what you really want and not what they want.

This “bullying” from mom (and dad) can occur when they are paying for some or all of the wedding. If this begins, you need to have a ‘heart to heart’ with them. If they don’t get it, take out a loan. I promise you, you will be happier that you did in the long run.

Lastly, speaking of finances, make sure you have a budget. I broke this down in one of my archived blogs, regarding how much things will cost, etc. The average wedding today (okay, sit down) costs between $20-25,000. And, that’s the “average.” Yes, some are less, but many are more. So you have to know exactly what you want to spend and stick to it, or you will end up paying for this for many years to come.
I promise I’ll bring you Part 2 tomorrow. I’ll “see” you then!

Much happiness coming your way,
Bella
Unique Wedding Favors
P.S. Hey, I didn’t talk about my unique wedding favors not even once! I’m slipping……………..

Posted by Bella Bridal at 1:44 PM | Permalink | Comments

Well, the time has come. You have to pick a song for the dance with you and your daddy! For a close family, this is a very touching and heartfelt time. For the opposite, this is probably drudgery, but hopefully this list will help find the appropriate song for that kind of relationship also. Definitely stay away from “Butterfly Kisses”, and lean more toward “The Way You Look Tonight”. At least that won’t get so mushy.

1 Butterfly Kisses
2 Wind Beneath My Wings
3 Unforgettable
4 Because You Loved Me
5 You Decorated My Life
6 My Girl
7 Through the Years
8 The Way You Look Tonight
9 My Special Angel
10 What A Wonderful World
11 You’re the Inspriation
12 Daughter of Mine
13 Hero
14 Isn’t She Lovely

There are many more, but these seem to be the most popular ones. Like I said, this can be a difficult moment for families, especially blended families, but you’ll get through it. We all did!

And don’t forget, check out my website. Remember, I am not just about unique wedding favors! There are so many great gifts that you can buy dad for a little thank you gift, and/or for your ushers. And the prices are amazing! Drop me a line when you visit on my site. I’d love to get to know you all better!

Bella
Unique Wedding Favors

Posted by Bella Bridal at 8:41 AM | Permalink | Comments

Do I really have to tell you that most brides cry at some point during their wedding? Do I have to tell you that you will be kissing, kissing, kissing all day long? If you know this and more, then you will need the following tips to get your through the day looking fresh and beautiful.

I’m sure you read my tips on carrying your ‘emergency bag’ with you at all times, so I won’t repeat that. But there will be other emergencies throughout the day, from smearing your lipstick to having your bustle stuck after you went to the bathroom! Don’t shake your head, it’s happened!

So, first things first – you must assign someone to be your checker. What do I mean by that? Make sure that you have someone that will keep an eye on you all day and let you know if there is something wrong or if you need a touch-up. I would suggest it’s not someone in your wedding party because they will be very involved in the wedding. Choose someone that is very observant and is sitting fairly close to the dais table so they can see you. But, please, from experience, do not choose someone that will want to bother you every second because she wants the attention. That will totally ruin your day worse than a stuck bustle!

Make sure if you do your own make-up or if you have a make-up artist apply your make-up that you/they use waterproof make-up. You “will” cry during the day. You don’t want to have to reapply your eye and face make-up all day long. This will save you tremendously. Do the same with long-lasting lipstick. Apply it at the beginning of the day and then touch-up as needed. Before buying, just make sure it says “all day” lipcolor or something to that affect.

Lastly, the most important beauty tip is to do a ‘dry run’ with make-up and hair. If you are doing both of those yourself or having a friend do it, then it will be easy. If you are having a professional do your hair and make-up, then speak to them and see if they will do this. Normally, this is included in the price.
Hope this helps! Relax. Stress causes dark circles and bags under your eyes. So last little tip…use cold cucumber slices placed under your eyes.

Also, don't forget that my website is not just about unique wedding favors. There are many last minute emergency items on that site as well as beautiful hair ornaments! Go check it out.

Much happiness coming your way,
Bella
Unique Wedding Favors

Posted by Bella Bridal at 10:12 AM | Permalink | Comments

Don’t fret, there are a million of them Just go into any record store and there are compilation cd’s that have 20 or more on them. But how did all of this start anyway?

The concept, (obviously), came from couples having a special song that was “our song” and when it came on, they would make goo goo eyes at each other! So usually, couples already have their own special song. But if you don’t, do what I said. Go to a large, record store and buy one or two of the cd’s that will list the top wedding songs. Listen to the words as well as the music, because that is what talks about the two of you and your relationship. But be careful. Go to http://www.lyrics.com/ and check out the exact words. Many songs are about breaking up and getting back together again. That just doesn’t seem to be the best song to dedicate to your new life together!

Below, is a list of ten of the most used wedding songs for that first dance for the newly married couple:

1. Nothing Compares To You - Sinead O’Connor
2. Close To You - Maxi Priest
3. Power of Love - Jennifer Rush
4. Love Me Tender - Elvis Presley
5. I Can’t Help Falling in Love with You - Elvis Presley
6. Just the Way You Are - Billy Joel
7. When You Say Nothing At All - Ronan Keating
8. From This Moment On - Shania Twain
9. You Made Me Love You - Al Jolson
10. How Deep Is Your Love - Bee Gees

Of course there are many, many more, but those seem to be used a lot of the time.

Now, you need to move onto the songs for Father/Daughter dance. This one is a tear jerker and there are many out there that are very popular also. Tomorrow, we will discuss that and I’ll give you some great suggestions.

Much happiness coming your way,
Bella
Unique Wedding Favors

P.S. Don’t forget to check out my website for unique wedding favors and so many other amazing and incredibly priced bridal necessities! And drop me a line while you’re on there and say hello!

Posted by Bella Bridal at 9:24 AM | Permalink | Comments

In a perfect world, all of your bridesmaids are supposed to be there for you. They help you through gown fittings, the Bridal Shower, cold feet, ranting about expenses, etc. etc. etc. But sometimes that support system breaks down. This blog will help you navigate through the muddy waters of bridesmaid’s meltdowns. And don’t think they won’t happen to you. They will. This will help you be ready for it!

Problem #1: One of your bridesmaids (or 2 or 3 for that matter) hates the dress that you picked out. What do you do? You obviously love these girls, or you wouldn’t have chosen them for such an honor, so you don’t want to lose them as friends during the most important time of your life. So, if you aren’t totally in love with the dress, see if you can find a dress that everyone at least likes. But sometimes that’s easier said than done. Another solution is everyone having a different style dress but in the same color and fabric. This can really be very beautiful. Just please enlist the expertise of the bridal sales people who will steer you the way that it would look the best. But in the end, remember, it is your wedding and your decision. You can say this dress or no dress, and only you know how far you can go with that without losing friends. My suggestion…always try compromise first. You have many years after that one day that you will be friends with these girls, so try to work it out amicably.

Problem #2: One of your bridesmaids is knock out gorgeous with a body to boot. You are insecure. What do you do? Okay, this one is really easy. First of all, you are the bride and all eyes will be on you…PROMISE! But, if you are really insecure about this, put the girls in muted colors and not so revealing dresses. I’ve seen it done before and the bridesmaids are not the wiser. Just remember, white makes a woman glow, so you really have nothing to worry about.

Problem #3: You overhear your bridesmaid saying how they don’t have enough money for this dress. Be sensitive. They are only going to wear the dress for a few hours, and probably will never wear it again. Try to compromise. See if you can find a dress that you love that is less expensive. Also, if the dress is pricey, make sure the color will work with black shoes so that will save them there. And, make their bridesmaid’s gift a piece of jewelry so that everyone will match and it won’t cost them anything. Speaking of bridesmaid’s jewelry, you do know that my website is not just about unique wedding favors…although we are about unique wedding favors, there is so much more! Here is one of the sets that is perfect for a gift from you and makes the bridesmaids look very uniform without costing your wedding party any money.

Well, that’s your first 3 solutions to problems with bridesmaids. There will be 3 more tomorrow that will help aid you when these problems arise. Just remember, life happens…but it all passes in time.

Much happiness coming your way,
Bella
Unique Wedding Favors

Posted by Bella Bridal at 12:11 PM | Permalink | Comments

Okay, so now it’s just a few weeks until the wedding and your questioning if you should be getting married. First of all, just know this – THIS IS NORMAL! Everyone gets cold feet…everyone! These feelings of anxiety, worry and concern are very normal prior to a wedding, and both the bride and the groom may experience this. Don’t concern yourself because before you know it, those feelings will pass. Reason for this is that sometimes tension and anxiety looks for a reason other than the obvious which is putting together the biggest day of your life. That in itself can blow you up! But as human beings, we look for something else. Bingo! We question the decision of saying, “I do”.

First tip – relax – breathe – go to the beach or the spa or wherever it is that you relax the best. Listen to music that helps calm you and talk it out with a parent or close friend. But, please make sure it’s someone that will be objective and realizes actually what is happening, not someone who is trying to thwart your special day. Just know that your feelings are completely normal and natural. For some reason, just thinking about that helps.

A good test of your anxiety is to take out a piece of paper and write down all of the things that are making you nervous and you are sweating over. You will soon find that they are all normal things that everyone gets concerned about and not really directed at your future spouse.

Also, if you have a married friend that has been through it, speaking to that person especially helps. They have gone down this road, and if they are completely honest, they will tell you that they went through it also. Something about knowing that others have felt the same way and understand you gets you through this time much quicker.

Next, make a list of all your fears and then all the reasons why you are marrying your partner. Normally, that puts this thing to bed. After doing this, write a love letter to your future spouse. Whether you give it to them or not is not an issue. Just do this to help you get in touch with your real feelings. Soon, they’ll come flooding out and you’ll know that this is all anxiety and it soon will pass.

Lastly, get away for the whole wedding process. I tell people that I consult on their weddings, that at least one or two days during the last few weeks, they need to walk away…go shopping…drive to the ocean…do something that will totally take them away from the craziness. You will come back a different person. That I promise you.

But, let me please take a moment here to say this. If there is any form of abuse in your relationship – emotional or physical abuse, any addictions, etc., then you have every right to call the wedding off. You are a future spouse, not a dormat, and you don’t want to enter into a permanent relationship with tons of baggage.

Please, if you have any questions, (even about your unique wedding favor *wink*), please don’t hesitate to write me at my website below. I will help any way I can.

Much happiness coming your way,
Bella
Unique Wedding Favors

Posted by Bella Bridal at 9:36 AM | Permalink | Comments

So you’re probably wondering what I mean by keeping your wedding organized. There are many factors involved in this and remember, the more together you are with all of this from the beginning, the easier your entire planning will go.

First things first, so you need to put together a “to do” list. This should consist of everything that has to be done and priced out including your gown, tux rentals, place for the ceremony and reception, band or DJ, flowers, transportation and of course, your own unique wedding favor. (By the way, take a look at this - very classy for the bride and groom with the utmost of taste!) This personalized champagne flute unique wedding favor can have your names and wedding date engraved on them in many different colors at no extra cost. Ah, they are a thing of beauty!

Anyway, once that list is compiled, make sure you get a notebook or ledger and put each item to be tracked on the top of each page. So now, when a payment is made for the banquet hall, flowers, whatever, you will have a running total available to you. Also, on the top of each page, put the total amount due the vendor, the contact person’s name and phone, fax and email address.

Next, almost immediately, you need to prepare a guest list. Now obviously, over the months of preparation, this will change. But if you have a pretty good idea of who you want to invite, you can now compile addresses so you’ll have them for invitations for the Bridal Shower (to give to those that are giving it to you), for the wedding and for thank you cards.

Lastly, you should have a one year calendar which is broken down into months and days. This will act as your “countdown planner” and you should fill it up with what has to be completed by what date. This is indispensable and I could never do what I do without it.

Please remember, the bride and groom (especially the bride) should not feel like they have to compile these lists on their own. Ask family and close friends to help, especially if you have some that are administrative and organized. They will steer you correctly.

You have no idea how these suggestions will help you. I promise, you will drop me a note and thank me once your wedding has passed. Just know, generally speaking, that the more organized you are in the beginning, the easier time you will have at the end.

Much happiness coming your way,
Bella
Unique Wedding Favors

Posted by Bella Bridal at 2:13 PM | Permalink | Comments

Yes, your wedding is about you, but it’s also about your guests! Remember, many of your memories re: this special day will include them, so keep them happy. But how you ask.
First of all, guests originally came to a wedding to be witnesses of the marriage, and pledge to do whatever they could to keep the marriage together. So much for that! Most people don’t even know why the heck they are there, except to see if the bride lost weight and what color she picked for her wedding party! Sheesh…
Okay, back to my topic. There are little things that you can do during your reception that really makes the guests feel a part of your day and keeps them happy. Not many couples do this, but it really is very touching and very important for your family and guests. The bride and groom, at some point during the reception (usually either after the first dance or at the end), should get on the microphone (preferably both should speak, for if not possible, then whoever is willing to) and thank their guests for sharing their special day with them. Also, thank the family and whoever else helped put the wedding together. What is also very touching is to openly welcome your spouse’s family into your heart and that you’re looking forward to many years of warm memories. Is it all true? Hopefully. But if it’s not, it sure would help build a bridge. But if you cannot do that, do the rest. It really makes people feel a part of your wedding day.
Another very important point to help people enjoy your wedding, is interaction amongst people who do not know each other. There are few events that bring everyone together like this, and unfortunately, they are usually marriages or funerals! I helped consult on one wedding where this was very important to the bride and groom. They went as far as to have people write something that they know about the bride or groom and bring it to the reception. Everyone placed the cards in the middle of the table and people read them throughout the day. It caused conversation to erupt and many memories and laughs to be shared. I just loved it.
Tradition dictates that the best man is the one that dedicates the first toast to the couple and wishes them well. What is also wonderful, is that he calls up people (who know they will be doing this) to share something about the couple. Many times it’s humorous. Many times it’s touching. The guests love it and the couple is even more blessed.
Your guests have come to your wedding to celebrate with you and to have fun. Besides enjoying the beautiful unique wedding favor that is sitting on the table (*wink*), walk around to each table, thank the guests there for coming and encourage them to get up and dance. Guests usually only need a little encouragement (especially from the bride and groom) and they will be on the dnce floor all night long. Also, if the funds allow, you could bring in someone that will lead dances, show people how to do them and also help encourage people to get up and enjoy themselves.
People look for an excuse to enjoy themselves. Help them along with the above suggestions. And don’t forget, you’re supposed to have fun too!
Much happiness coming your way,
Bella
Unique Wedding Favors

Posted by Bella Bridal at 11:59 AM | Permalink | Comments

The wedding cake! Should we just wink and not worry about it? NO! Every part of your special day is…well…special, including the wedding cake. These delicacies have been around for centuries and have become a tradition around the world to help celebrate the union of the wedding couple.

Originally, it was eaten with the groom to bestow fertility on them in their married life. The cutting of the cake was to symbolize the loss of virginity by the bride. But today, the first bite of the cake being fed to each other by the couple symbolizes the promises they’ve made to each other, and the new life they are about to begin together. Also, the top tier of the cake was traditionally kept and used at the birth of the couple’s first child or on their first wedding anniversary. For many, that tradition still hold today.

Years ago, the idea of the wedding cake was typical. A tiered round white cake with butter cream frosting. Not so anymore. There are many very unique ideas that can really be a focal point of the wedding, especially when places at the front of the bride and groom.

For example, many couples are opting for a heart shaped wedding cake instead of the typical round or square. Also, if you are having a garden wedding, a cake in the shape of a rose petal, with roses on the cake and rose petals sprinkled around the table is absolutely breathtaking!

And don’t forget that you don’t have to have just a vanilla or chocolate cake. At my last daughter’s wedding, we had a cannoli cream cake and I’ve been to weddings where there was rum cake, strawberry filling cakes, etc. Today, anything goes.
But personally, what I think is most beautiful, (and this is VERY easy to accomplish) is to order a white tiered cake with whatever type of trimmings you want on it. Then, when the bride decides what type of flower bouquet she is carrying, just order some extra flowers from the florist of the same color/type, etc. Have them delivered that morning to the bakery or banquet hall liason and have them placed on the tiers of the cake. When the cake is displayed in front of the bride and groom, have the bride place her bouquet right next to the cake on the same table. Gorgeous! And very classy! And very inexpensive! What could be better?

And, one last thing – don’t forget that if you love wedding cakes and want to incorporate that into your theme, we have the most unique wedding favor. Check this out! Candle Wedding Cake unique wedding favor! And they come with a 2” stand to place them on! Geez, I love this one!
Okay, that’s all the writing Bella is going to do for now! Hope you got some ideas about your wedding cake. If you’d like more, drop me a note on my website (designstoremember.com) and I’ll see what else I can come up with.

Much happiness coming your way,
Bella
Unique Wedding Favors

Posted by Bella Bridal at 9:46 AM | Permalink | Comments

Before we get into this, make sure you cut costs in all the ways I’ve given you previously. After all, this is your special day and you want as many special people to be there that you are able to have.

First of all, you must invite the close relatives of the bride and groom. Then, of course, you must also invite friends. Next, business associates that mean enough to you to have them there, as well as close friends of both parents. It would seem like that last group could be cut, but please remember, the bride and groom’s parents have a special part in this day and will really want the friends they love to be there. I would never cut those people, but then again, I’m a parent!

Be careful when it comes to family. We invited my daughter and her fiancee’s aunts, uncles and first cousins. If you make a rule like that, then you have to apply it across the board. If you start picking and choosing, you will surely offend people big time! But, if that’s what you want to do, then do it, but know that it just is not proper etiquette.

But what about inviting a friend and they want to bring their boy/girlfriend? Make a rule and stick to it. If you’re going to allow that for one person, then you really should allow it for everyone. What we did was if the person was obviously going to marry that person, or if it was a very long standing relationship, or if they were engaged, then they were invited. This cut 20 people from our guest list that people wanted to have come with them. Right there, that’s a huge savings!
What about kids? That is totally a subjective decision. In our case, we allowed only children that were part of my daughter’s and her fiancee’s immediate family. That worked for us. If people are bold enough to ask if they can bring their children, explain, very nicely, that you are not allowing kids at the wedding, because if you allow one family to do that, everyone else will get offended. Then explain that the only children that will be there are close family.

We have had a dilemma in the past in a wedding that I was consulting on, where the bride’s family was paying for the wedding, and the groom’s family was demanding a ton of guests to be present. If it’s a reasonable request and is just a couple of extra people, for the sake of future relations, I would allow it, if financially feasible. If they want to invite a huge number of guests, be very honest with them (keeping the future bride and groom out of the middle of this) and tell them that you can’t afford that many extras. Explain to them that you cut your own guest list because of that. But also tell them that you don’t mind if they invite 100 extra guests, but if they do, perhaps they could consider paying for them. That should do the trick. They will either shut up or pay up…either way, you win. Please know though, I’m not picking on the groom’s parents. It could also happen the other way around!

Hopefully these guest cutting tips will help you. And hey, if you have tons of money, invite anyone and everyone! Just make sure that those that you really want to share your special day with are there. It makes all the difference in the world.

Much happiness coming your way,
Bella
Unique Wedding Favors

Posted by Bella Bridal at 10:11 AM | Permalink | Comments

It doesn’t take long to go over budget. Ask me…after two daughter’s have gotten married! Ah…best laid plans of mice and men! But, today, I’m going to give you some tips that I’ve used and absolutely work! But before we get there, let me give you an approximate percentages that should be allotted for each item that you have to purchase.

Rings – 15%
Bridal Gown/Accessories – 5%
Invitations – 2%
Photography/Videography – 10%
Music – 5%
Flowers – 5%
Honeymoon – 14%
Misc. Items – 7%
These, of course, are approximations. But now that you have an idea of that, let me show you how to cut that WAY down!
First of all, let’s take the reception. Most people do not know this, but if you get married on a holiday (i.e. Columbus Day, Labor Day, Memorial Day, etc.) your cost per plate can be cut in half or even more than half. When my 2nd daughter got married 2 years ago (and this is NO exaggeration), we were quoted the price of $125 per plate plus tax and tip. This included hors d’oeuvres, hot and cold, during the appetizer hour, plus a choice of 4 different entrees (high end stuff!) and dessert which was assorted pastries and the wedding cake. Well, I asked him how much it would be if she got married on the Monday of Columbus Day. After questioning each other back and forth, he gave me a price of $45 per plate!!! How’s that for savings?
Also, this works for Friday the 13th also, but unfortunately, not as well as on a holiday. Reason for that is the place usually will book a ‘sweet 16’ or a shower or something else on that night. But even with this day, there is some wiggle room, if you know what I mean.
Now, you could combine saving on flowers and the reception if you’d like to get married either right before or right after Christmas. Last year, I consulted on a wedding that was the day before New Year’s Eve. And honestly, it was one of the most beautiful weddings ever. They saved big time on flowers, because it was already decorated with gorgeous Christmas decorations and winter displays. So, with their budget, all I put on the tables was a beautiful poinsettia with ribbons on it and a winter unique wedding favor. In fact, I used this one.
I placed them all around the poinsettia plant. The tablecloths were a rich, deep green. Also, I sprinkled some white snowflake confetti on the tablecloth surrounding the favors and the poinsettia. It was probably the most beautiful “slim” budget wedding I’ve ever done.
A big saver is using a D.J. and not a live band. This can cut the cost of music to less than half what live music will cost you. But, be VERY specific about what you want from them If you want a major party atmosphere with noisemakers, etc. or something more quiet, let them know. And make sure it’s in the contract.
Regarding the wedding reception dinner, remember that a buffet is less expensive than a sit-down formal dinner. And the choices you make on that buffet, can lower it even more. A rule of thumb, more meat, more cost - more pasta and non-meat dishes, less cost. Don’t let them give you a set price for what they offer. Deal with them. Ask them if they remove this certain dish and replace it with this other one, what could you save?
There are many more tips to save money, and I will be addressing them in future blogs. But I think I gave you enough to work on! You’ll be shocked at the amounts you can save if you heed my suggestions.
Much happiness coming your way,
Bella
Unique Wedding Favors

Posted by Bella Bridal at 10:42 AM | Permalink | Comments

I know. I know. You’re running out of money! But as I’ve said before, skimping on photography/videography shouldn’t be where you tighten the purse strings. After all, everything else is just for the day. This is forever.

If you really want to have some amazing memories of your day, consider a videographer in addition to a regular photographer. Actually, if you can only afford one, I would go with an amazing videographer. Why? Well, they can take all the footage you want from you getting dressed, right through getting into your car to leave for your honeymoon. And don’t forget, you can take the video footage and make still photos out of them.

But here’s my warning! If you do that, make sure there are disposable cameras on each guests table at the wedding. And yes! I do have those on my site! Well, did you think all I carried was unique wedding favors? This is a cutie. You can’t see it here, but it’s “pearlized white” and is a really nice addition to your guests table. Then at least this way, you are sure of getting all the still shots you want of your guests.

Also, don’t forget. With a videographer, you will get a cd of your wedding day, and be able to send it around the world for your family and friends to see. It’s just an up close and personal look at your wedding day, with all the sights and sounds that you really would like to remember.

Just PLEASE remember, you have to find a qualified and reputable videographer that has tons of experience doing weddings. In fact, word of mouth is the best way to hire someone. Don’t hire your cousin’s sister’s best friend’s brother! I promise that you will regret it, and you can never get that day back!

You can add your wedding song to special parts of the video and anything else that you would like to incorporate into it. Also, don’t forget to give him/her a list of people (and what tables they are at) to interview during the reception or prior to or immediately after the ceremony.

By the way, make sure that everything you want is in contract form, signed by you and the videographer. EVERYTHING should be in there including all your special requests for people to be interviewed, what is to be covered during the day, what lighting you want, what you want during the ceremony to be covered, etc. etc. etc. Make sure everything is spelled out perfecting. Don’t forget the first dance, cutting the cake, tossing the bouquet, and any other moments that you want to make sure he gets. This is true even if you are having a photographer as well as a videographer.

Lastly, don’t forget to ask about a guarantee. What if the person you hired has an emergency or can’t make it because of illness? Who replaces them? Are they the same quality videographer? You have to make sure that you have the name and number and email address of both the videographer and the back-up person. The last thing you need is to be worried about this on your wedding day. And really, you should designate someone that is close to you, to be like your wedding consultant. That’s the person that needs to take care of all of this last minute craziness!

Enjoy your day. Everything will be taped and you will be blessed by the results that you will be able to show your kids and grandkids!

Much happiness coming your way,
Bella
Unique Wedding Favors

Posted by Bella Bridal at 8:54 AM | Permalink | Comments

I know that mostly brides to be will be reading this blog, but perhaps you can print it out and hand it to whomever is organizing your Bridal Shower. Or just leave it hanging around the house for your mom, sister, friends, to see.

These tips have been compiled through my experience with my own daughter’s showers as well as helping to plan others. Heed them when you can. Many of them will save you a lot of work and be a lot of fun.

1. As the Bridal Shower guests arrive, have a beautiful “sign in” book there for them. Here they can write a beautiful thought that you will cherish for years to come. In fact, there is a guestbook and pen set on my website that is on sale for so little you won’t even believe it. I just hope by the time you read this, it’s still on sale! Check it out and many more!
2. So how do you get all the addresses for the thank you cards. A bridesmaid should stand next to the sign in book. As guests arrive, after they sign in, she should hand them a 3 x5 card to put their name and current address on. Then have a colorful cardboard box with a slit on the side available for them to put it in. Halfway through the shower, you choose a name and they get a prize, and you have all their names and addresses for thank you cards!
3. Before the shower itself, fill out name tags for each guest but make it more personal. For example, Bella, Mother of the Bride. Or Louise, Bride’s Aunt. Things like that using Friend, Cousin, whatever. This makes the shower more personal and people get to know each other easier.
4. In the Bridal Shower invitation, tell the guests to bring a recipe on a recipe card with their name on it and where they got the recipe from. Buy a recipe book and as the shower is in progress, pass it around and have everyone slip there’s in the book. It’s very practical and also a wonderful keepsake.
5. Compile a list of the bride’s favorite songs on a couple of cd’s. Have them played during the shower. It’s very personal and the bride will love it!
6. Consider having a “Tea” instead of a full-blown lunch or dinner. They usually take place mid-afternoon on a Saturday or Sunday and are very elegant and much less expensive. They are the up and coming thing to do now. Also, you HAVE to check out our Teapot Unique Wedding Favor OR Bridal Favor. That’s a Collector’s Replica Teapot that is exclusive to Designs to Remember. I just LOVE that one!
7. Put a disposable camera on each table so that you will have pictures of all the guests at each table. This is normally done for weddings and not showers which doesn’t make much sense to me. Because at a wedding you have a photographer. Normally at a shower you do not. So a camera here, makes more sense. No?
8. Make sure the Maid or Matron of Honor toasts the bride. This seems to be a forgotten tradition that really is beautiful and can be very touching. And if it’s a small bridal party, perhaps each person could say something about the bride. Or they could even recall a funny moment in planning the shower…whatever…just something charming and personal to the bride-to-be.

That’s it from here for now. Hope these little tips helped a bit. Just plan ahead. Think it all through and you will have a very successful Bridal Shower.

Much happiness coming your way,
Bella
Unique Wedding Favors

Posted by Bella Bridal at 9:31 AM | Permalink | Comments

Remember, this is your day. Enjoy it. It will pass quickly.


1. If possible, shop for flowers, music and favors early. These are the things that always seem to cause a problem. Be very specific about the flowers that you want. If you are general, you will get whatever they have on hand at that time.


2. When putting together your wedding list, have an A and B list. The A’s being “have to” invite, and the B’s being “if there’s room”.


3. Get invitations out very early. At least 2 months in advance of the date. This way, if people decline, you can invite some people from your B list. This is a cute one off of our affiliate website. Isn't it great?


4. Don’t spend extra money on a lavish wedding cake, unless you have the money to do so. Most of the guests will never remember what it looked like anyway.


5. Make sure you have contracts and agreements for everyone you’ve hired. Also, make sure you are very specific about your wants, i.e. you want a lot of ballads and oldies, but not hard rock, or whatever. If you have the patience and time, it is wise to ask the DJ or band for a list of what they do, and then cross out what you definitely don’t want them to play.


6. Secure your marriage license early. And don’t forget to have it on you the day of the wedding. Yes, I’ve seen it happened, where the bride and groom could not be married because of this!

7. Don’t forget, what is usually remembered at a wedding is the food, music and of course, the favor. This Heart Measuring Spoons is one of our most unique wedding favor. The way it looks, it will brighten up your guests tables and because of the quality, they will use them for years, always remembering your special day!



8. MAJOR TIP! When speaking to banquet halls, florists, limo companies, photographers, etc. ask them if you can be advertising for them. If you don’t mind, tell them that they can put their cards on the guests table, or they can use you to advertise their product. Many times you can secure a nice discount if they agree.


9. Always, unless absolutely impossible, accompany bridesmaids to their fittings. This will insure that they do not alter the dresses to be too tight, short, loose, etc.


10. If you have children under the age of 4 in your wedding party, please make sure that you couple them with someone older that can walk with them down the aisle.


11. Be careful not to stay up too late the night before the wedding. Especially if it is a morning ceremony. Stress can keep you awake. If you are unable to sleep, and wake up with circles or bags under your eyes, try a little Preparation H rubbed on the area, then cover with a slice of cool cucumber. Lie down, close your eyes, and place the cucumber slice directly over your eye. Breath deeply and lie there for 15 minutes. You’ll wake up a new person with bags gone!


12. Make sure you tightly secure fake rings to the wedding pillow. Then make sure that the best man has the real thing! And what a cute wedding pillow we have on our unique wedding favor site! Look at this cutie. Talk about different!


13. A few days before the wedding day, call all the hired vendors and verify the day of your wedding, the time of the ceremony and any other pertinent information.


14. Have attendants arrive at least 30 minutes before the photographer is due to arrive. People are always late, and you don’t want to miss any important shots. Also, for those that arrive early, have coffee and bagels, rolls or muffins on a table for them as they wait. Don’t buy donuts or pastry with powdered sugar or jelly inside. You will run the risk of them getting it on their tux and gowns.

15. Be careful with your bridal gown. Never iron it. If there are wrinkles, call the center where it was purchased and they’ll have you bring it in to steam it. Also, never eat in your gown, or apply make-up with it on. It should be the last thing you do before your photographer arrives.


16. Always have a panic bag! This should include a needle and thread, hair pins and clips, an extra pair of panty hose, nail polish, hard candy, gum, mints, extra make-up AND a headache remedy and stomach antacid! Here's one that you can use that is inexpensive and oh so adorable!



The day has arrived. Don’t sweat the small stuff. Everything doesn’t always go the way they were planned. Don’t let it ruin your day. Usually, no one notices but you anyway. Laugh it off and enjoy. Before you know it, you’ll be planning your kids wedding!

These tips are all from my website. Hope they were of help to you.
Have a very wonderful day.
Much happiness coming your way,
Bella
Unique Wedding Favors

Posted by Bella Bridal at 1:14 PM | Permalink | Comments

First, let’s talk about the couple…the bride and groom…after all, this IS their special day. So what do you get each other that you can afford (after dropping a huge amount of the wedding!) that will be something to remember forever? How about naming a star after your sweetheart? Go to this website http://www.starregistry.com and you will get all the details. This is truly an eternal gift for under $50!

Are you sick of the same place cards that you see at every wedding? Then do what we did. Get yourself some heavier stock parchment paper. Now lay out on your computer (in a beautiful calligraphy-type font) the menu for the day. Fold it like a pamphlet. Now go to a stationary or paper goods store and find fancy gold-embossed labels. Write each person’s name on the labels and stick onto each menu card. Finish by wrapping them in satin ribbon or white tulle. On the greeting table as the guests walk in, have them laid out alphabetically. The guest’s LOVE this. And this works especially well if your guests have a choice of what they will have for the reception dinner. This way they can plan ahead.

If you are Catholic, you will love this. If you send one of your wedding invitations to the Vatican, along with a donation, they will send you a papal blessing. It takes a couple of months, so if you do it early enough, you can have your best man read it at the reception during the toast.

Don’t have your guests throw rice or confetti at the end of the ceremony…use bubbles! It really has become the new thing for weddings. Here is one of the bottle styles that we have on my website. And you thought all I had on there was unique wedding favors!!! These are so precious to hand out to the ceremony guests as they come in - especially if you have a cute little boy and girl at the door holding them in a basket. That’s what we did and our guests talked about it for a long time.

This one I love! When we did this, I actually got calls from the guests. Designate one person to take a picture of each guest or couple as they arrive at the wedding reception. When you send out your thank you cards, you include their picture. What a personal touch that your guests will not soon forget.

Are you stuck for a centerpiece that won’t cost you your arm and your groom’s leg? Go to my website and under Mikasa favors, look at the beautiful crystal bowls that are there. They are very inexpensive and make beautiful centerpieces. All you have to do is buy faux or real rose petals (colored to match your wedding party) and floating candles. Fill the bowl with water ¾ full. Float 3 candles and flower petals on the top of the water. Place in the center of each table. Light the candles and take some of the same rose petals and place them on the table, spread around the centerpiece. Absolutely gorgeous!

These are only a few very unique ideas. And speaking of unique…don’t forget to check out our unique wedding favors. There are hundreds to choose from. And if you have a question for me, leave me a message on the site and I’ll get back to you lickety split!

Much happiness coming your way,
Bella
Unique Wedding Favors

Posted by Bella Bridal at 9:56 AM | Permalink | Comments

Wedding transportation – the big question – how many cars do you need – what kind do you want to use – should you even get limos or something else – how much money should you spend on this???

This can all be a big headache, if you don’t go about it the right way.

First things first – how many people do you want to transport in chauffeur driven cars or limos? This can be from as little as the bride and groom all the way to transporting them, their parents, attendants, grandparents, etc. If you want to save money, then just have the bride and groom in a car or limo. Remember, there are many different kinds of cars, town cars and limos. To save money, if you want to transport everyone, go with an older limo. But make sure you check how much the stretch stretch limo costs. In the long run, it may save money by having everyone in the same car.

Also, you can hire a limo and driver just to the ceremony. Or you can hire them to the ceremony and reception and then they leave. In this case, you have to make sure someone drives your car there so you have transportation to the hotel or airport. And lastly, you can have them for you for the entire day and they will drive you wherever you need to go after the reception. But be careful. If you only want them to drive you to the ceremony, you may be paying the same amount of money that it would cost for them to drive you to the reception also. Many limo companies have minimums and you will pay that whether it’s 30 minutes or 3 hours.

Make sure you call the limo companies the day before the wedding to confirm the pickup times and locations. The worse thing that could happen is to have all your attendants waiting and no one there to bring them or the bride to the ceremony.

When you speak to a transportation company, make sure you ask a few important questions:

1. What color limos do they have? Some brides want white, while others prefer black. Make sure that is stipulated.
2. How old are the limos? You should be paying less for the older, smaller ones, unless it is a vintage limo. In that case, you’ll probably pay more.
3. Is the chauffeur in uniform?
4. Do you have to give the driver a tip as well as pay the company, or is it included in the price?
5. Is the price less if we get more than one car?
6. What is included in the price? There may be champagne, snacks, whatever. My advice to you, if they do include these things, is to ask them to eliminate them. I’ve seen far too many weddings ruined because the attendants were intoxicated at the ceremony. And snacks can ruin the bridesmaid’s gowns. Just a thought.
Just remember, if the funds are tight, this is one area that does not affect your guests, so it’s a good place to cut. I’ve never heard anyone comment about limos in a wedding…ever! I’ve heard about the food. I’ve heard about the music. Limos…never.
Don’t leave booking this until last. Figure it all out as soon as possible. If you’re getting married at a popular time of the year, you don’t want to be left with nothing to choose from.

Hope this helped. So happy you’ve gotten this far.
Much happiness coming your way,
Bella
Unique Wedding Favors

Posted by Bella Bridal at 10:22 AM | Permalink | Comments

So, you are now at the point where you need to decide what kind of entertainment there will be at your wedding reception. Listen to Bella, there are so many different ways to go that it will make your head spin. But, again, if we are talking budget, then a D.J. (disc jockey) is the way to go. Now don’t feel too badly about that (and maybe you really want a d.j., then it’s all good), because d.j.’s can be awesome. They can provide you and your guests with every kind of music imaginable and play you your favorite songs all night long. There are also packages that provide more of an entertainment aspect with hats and big glasses, Caribbean music, etc. etc. etc…the sky is the limit with many of them.

But, that may not be your cup of tea. Speaking of tea…sorry for the detour…but I just discovered that we are the only people on the internet that offers these adorable teapot wedding favors. These are the most unique wedding favors you will find and they will go with any kind of music!

Okay, back to what I was saying. If you prefer, at the wedding reception you can have a 3-10 piece band. Or you might want to hire a harpest or a flute duo or string quartet. As I said, the ky is the limit if your budget has no limit.

I went to a wedding once that during the cocktail hour there was a small jazz trio and then they had a live band for the reception. But what was so unique, was that when the band took breaks, there was a d.j. who played music and got the people up to dance. It was very different and very enjoyable.

Just remember, this is totally up to you, your taste and your budget. Anything goes musically, from karaoke to a live band…jazz…classical or even reggae and disco. After all, even down to the band, it should all be about what the couple that is getting married prefers. The only exception here, and I see this quite frequently, is accommodating some of your special guests. For example, if you have many older Italian couples attending, you might want to add some of the songs that they know and love. You can tailor the reception to any of your guests which is always a nice added touch.

Don’t forget! You have to have a first dance song whether you have a band or a d.j. This is a very special, sentimental moment when the bride and groom dance together, alone on the dance floor for the first time. If you hire a band, just make sure they can play the song before you hire them. In our case, we hired the band well in advance and when they didn’t know the song my daughter and future son-in-law wanted, they told me that they would learn it and that it would sound perfect.

Well, now you have the lowdown on all the possibilities that you have with regards to music. You can get as creative as you want with bands, trumpeters, jazz duos, concert pianists, etc. If you can afford them, you will get them. Just make sure that if you go with live entertainment, you hear them before you hire them! Do not hire them because you heard them at someone else’s wedding. They may have changed singers, musicians, etc. and may not have the same sound. Word to the wise: go to hotels that have the wedding nights and listen to many different bands. Don’t hire the first one that you like. Remember, this is your special day. You’ll never have this day again. And music fills the ears of your guests all during that day. Make sure they sound just like you want them to.
Okay…now you’re equipped to make a decision re: the music for your wedding! Now go get ‘em!

Have a wonderful, musical journey.
Much happiness coming your way,
Bella
Unique Wedding Favors

Posted by Bella Bridal at 10:20 AM | Permalink | Comments