Category: Blog

Taking time to celebrate your engagement is definite, but don’t be so engrossed in it until you forget to start planning for your wedding; it is definitely the next thing in the to do list. The article below is going to provide guidelines on how to plan a wedding effectively.

1. Set a wedding timetable

The moment you get engaged, the next big question people will be asking is the wedding date. You won’t be able to set a definite date without first knowing where to book a venue. First, concentrate on the dates and a season that will suit you best because an average engagement should last for at least 15 months. Also have a timeline on when the planning should occur.

2. Decide on a location

By now you are at a point where fantasies are supposed to be turned into reality. Before starting to shop for a gown, sample for cakes and taste as many as possible, and also book a band. Try fathoming the kind of style you want and the specific place the wedding should be held. While picturing the wedding, you can also decide on how small or big the event should be. Should it be indoors, or a garden wedding, in your city or away? Romantic, vintage, classic, glamorous, or modern? These are some of the mind-boggling questions you need to deal with.

3. Choose the most applicable budget

Have a meeting with all stakeholders and see how much a person can contribute before embarking on any shopping. The conversation will not be all rosy but it is better to get it done once and for all, as it will give you a picture of the amount to spend.

4. Start writing a guest list

Once you get to the point of drafting a guest list, there are a number of factors necessary to note like how many people the location of the wedding can accommodate. Nowadays, the bigger the number of people attending a wedding, the deeper one has to dig in their pocket.

5. Present a register of gifts people can get you

Feeling worried about writing down the list of gifts? Don’t. In fact, majority of people nowadays prefer a foresight. From engagement parties, to pre-weddings and bridal showers, there are innumerable presents people are ready to give.

6. Have your engagement ring insured

You may term yourself as a careful and cautious person but insuring an engagement ring is vital for your peace of mind. In case of theft or loss, a reimbursement is guaranteed so it saves the both of you the hassle of getting a new one.

7. Choose your bridal party

It is now the time to start choosing grooms men and bridesmaids and the earlier you start asking them the better. Remember the bridal team is making a big sacrifice in using their money on your wedding so keep them abreast with all your plans including cost of the clothes and all the parties in between. To them this will be enough appreciation.

8. Hire a wedding planner

In between the wedding planning, you may encounter busy schedules so it is advisable to have a consultant to take care of all the details. You can also have them assist in devising a blueprint for the goods, sites and budget before you launch into the preparations on your own. The other option can be a day off coordinator who will ensure everything runs smoothly on the material day.

9. Book a venue where the wedding will occur

The reception area will definitely be the backdrop for most of the photographs of the big day, and can influence everything including the budget. Ensure what you have is what you wanted by shopping around and making early bookings. Signing a contract early enough is a bonus and you will have an official wedding date.

10. Hire people who will make your wedding stand out

From qualified photographers to the best music bands and an interesting MC, these are the people who will carry the day. Figure out your wedding priorities and get the best.

11. Getting the dress

There is an adage that says, ‘No wedding gown, no bride’. Begin the search for your dress and save photos of all the beautiful dresses you can find. Learn the lingo before visiting a boutique and know that the dress should go hand in hand with the season.

12. Get a good wedding caterer

In planning, wedding catering is very critical in a wedding. After guests have graced your special occasion, good food will make their churning stomachs relax. No one should go hungry at your wedding so always talk to the caterer to make scrumptious meals. Nicely prepared meals will always be remembered by your guests.

The smell of the sea and the magical experience you get while at the sea shore can make you desire to be there for the rest of your life. How about adding such an experience to your wedding? Getting sea food for your guests is a perfect way of incorporating the sea experience to your wedding day.
Here are the top sea food ideas for your big day

1. A lobster Buffet

Nothing would excite your guests more than walking into a reception with a lobster buffet. Most people love lobsters but they can be scary to children. Note that this requires you to get the best wedding caterer to prepare lobster buffet perfectly.

2. Salmon Rolls

This tasty delicacy consists of smoked salmon and prosciutto. They are rolled neatly (that’s appetizing right?) and served in very elegant trays. The wedding catering team will also find it easy to serve this meal.

3. Seared Tuna Bites

While making your wedding menu ensure you explain in detail to your wedding caterer how you want your seared tuna bites. This is because, for these to be crunchy, chewy and sweet, the crostini should be topped with small pieces of tuna.

4. Bite-Size Shrimp and Grits

Who hates shrimp? The thought of shrimp and grits makes some people hungry instantly. So bring on the southern charm to your wedding menu and the feedback will be awesome.

5. An Outdoor Clambake

You can plan with your wedding caterer to have an outdoor reception. Here you can serve your guests with grilled clambake. They will enjoy the outdoor reception as much as the clambake that is a very tasty delicacy.

6. Fresh Oyster on Ice

Oyster is very tasty seafood and serving it on ice during your wedding reception will make your guests yearn for more. This idea is awesome you have no room of backing down. Go ahead and include it on your menu. The wedding catering group will also enjoy serving this meal because it is easy to serve.

7. Crab with Baguette

Walking bare foot at the beach, listening to the sound of the noisy ocean and mostly watching crabs, has been a dream for most people since childhood. Most of your wedding guest would die to eat hot crab dip with baguette. So why don’t you spoil them for a change and make their dreams come true on your wedding day. Once you include crab on your menu people will enjoy that moment.

8. Lobster Rolls

Lobster rolls are typically served in a grilled hot dog style although they have an opening on the top. If you are hosting your wedding on the beach you should consider this as part of your comfort food. It is delicious and can be served outside without problems.

9. Fried Oyster

If you want your wedding day to be talked about for centuries, bring on fried oyster. This comfort food is awesome and suitable for your wedding reception. For starters the fried oyster is very appetizing just by looking at it and once it’s in your mouth, it tastier and melts in our mouth perfectly. Don’t be selfish; give your guests an experience of a lifetime.

10. Cream Cheese and Crab wrapped up in Wonton

What more can your wedding guests ask for than cream cheese and crab wrapped up in wontons? This meal is memorable on its own because of its sweetness. If you want to get your guests’ attention, try out this meal.

Holding your dream wedding is always going to be a costly affair. Buying the wedding attire, meeting transport costs, hiring the venue are all major portions of the budget. By the time you get to the wedding catering you will have spent quite a huge sum. Depending on your desires, it could well be a fortune. At times, these high budgets may easily end up making you compromise some important aspects of your wedding. To prevent this from happening, you can focus on a number of tricks to reduce your likely expenditure on the menu and venue. Here are some you should consider:

1. Consider a different day of the week and season

While it is attractive to have your wedding in full summer and follow the Saturday tradition, a simple change can give you bargain venue deals. Marrying on the less popular seasons say, during the fall or winter, is less popular meaning a lower demand. The same is true for having a wedding on any off-peak day say a Friday or Sunday.

2. Stick with a traditional wedding venue

While you can change the day and season of the wedding, getting creative on the venue can cost you a lot. This is because you will have to use plenty of rentals and buying props to turn the place into a wedding venue. You can save on such logistics by sticking to an all-inclusive venue which has hosted weddings before and has all the facilities available.

3. Whenever possible pick a venue that can also host the reception

Unless your venue is a church with no space or nearby place to accommodate a reception, it is always great to have a venue that can host the two functions. This allows you to save on the cost of a second venue and also the transportation costs you would have incurred. You also cut down on the cost of decorating two venues.

4. Make use of fun foods

While it may look classy to have foods like lobster and other choice foods, most people hardly remember them especially the favors and other dishes. Instead of fussing over this and spending a lot on them, organize with your wedding caterers to have comfort foods. These, when done in a creative manner always make a memory reception dinner. These are foods people love and enjoy wholeheartedly and they are also inexpensive.

5. Work with foods that are in season

Getting some fruits and vegetables and legumes that are not in season can be very expensive. On the other hand, when it is a season of any fruit or ingredient, the prices are very low and you can save a lot by having them on the menu.

6. Limit your guest list

Although a difficult decision to make, this can save you a great deal of money. When you send fewer invitation cards and feed a smaller crowd not to mention the savings you make on rentals such as the seating, you’ll have incurred fewer expenses.

With wedding expenses going higher, gratuities usually add up and keeping track of what is expected is quite difficult. In spite of all these and although it’s not a rule, tipping should be done as an appreciation for a job well done. Some vendors will always expect small gratuities but it should only be given for good services. In most cases employers are never tipped, only the employees are appreciated. If the services rendered exceed your expectations, it is not such a bad idea to tip the employer of the company.
A vendor who has gone out of their way to ensure they serve you in the most effective way can get a thank-you note. Below is a breakdown of how different vendors can be appreciated.

Wedding planner

Since they believe it is their job to deliver during a wedding, planners normally don’t expect any tokens after a wedding is over. You as a couple can decide on what to give them. For instance, a portfolio of them during the whole planning process can go a long way. You can also include a small gift or some money which can be handed over after the reception or it can also be sent later on.

The makeup artist and hairstylist

This is one area where appreciation is always necessary. In case one of the maids messes up with the makeup and the artist readily redoes it, at least give them something immediately they finish their services.

The setup and delivery staff

Give a few dollars to people who bring the flowers, tents, chairs and cakes to the reception area. The money can be given to the person in charge a day prior to the delivering of the necessities.

The person officiating the ceremony

If the officiate is affiliated to a church, it is always to make a donation to the institution before tying the knot. In case you are a member of the church, giving a larger amount is not so bad because these are people who have been committed in ensuring you achieve your spirituality.

The music band

When the band you worked with has entertained guests and pulled out a good show, show a monetary appreciation for their immense talent. The tip can be handed to them at the end of the wedding ceremony.

Videographer and photographer

Normally, photographers and videographers are paid beforehand on the agreed amount. In case at the party some freelance photographer shows up, and takes some nice shots tip them at the end of the reception.

Staff at the reception

This includes the wedding caterers, on-site coordinator, and matron in charge. Wedding catering is not an easy task so if not included in the contract, a small percentage can be added to ensure the team feels appreciated.

Reception attendants

Only give a tip if the services were exceptional. This is usually outside the contract signed prior to the occasion. Most times attendants could be the wait staff, bartenders, and bathroom, coatroom, and parking lot attendants.
The people in charge can also get a tip provided they got at the venue on time and didn’t end up getting lost. Always remember to include tips when making a wedding budget.

The most memorable part of your wedding for your guests is what they eat during your big day. Food leaves a lasting impression from its aroma to the taste. Don’t be surprised; you will blow their minds once they walk into the reception and find the wedding catering team ready to serve them mini chicken instead of the typical trays of canapés.

Here are top 10 comfort foods that will make your wedding the talk of the year.

1. Cheesy Pizza

Talk about pizza and you will get everyone’s attention. People love pizza and serving it to your guests will be one of the greatest ideas. Get a good wedding caterer who can make tasty cheesy pizzas. Serving it at night is fun and it keeps the wedding vibe.

2. Playful Doughnuts

Who doesn’t love desserts? Why don’t you make the playful doughnuts your dessert? They are appealing and sweet. Besides, they are an amazing way of spoiling your guests.

3. Southern Fried Chicken

If the taste and the aroma of southern fried chicken can make you lose your mind, what about your wedding guests? You should convince your wedding caterer to include this in your menu even if they tell you that it can be messy. After all what are the napkins for?

5. French Fries with a Side of Ketchup

You don’t want your guests to get French fry oil all over their hands. Serve the French fries in cocktail glasses and ketchup at the bottom. The glasses are very efficient because they make it easy to carry. Once you pitch this idea to your preferred wedding catering company, they will prepare it excellently. It is also easy and fast to serve.

6. Fried Macaroni and Cheese

When it comes to comfort foods on your wedding day this is one of the best ideas. You can fry it and put it on a stick and serve it as a finger food. A macaroni and cheese bar can also be a wonderful idea.

7. Milk and Cookie Escort Cards

Milk is good and when served with the cookie escort cards it even tastes better. Your wedding guests will enjoy themselves and think about it all night long.

8. Ice Cream Corns

Whenever you think about ice cream, probably a piece of cake also crosses your mind. Ice cream and cake go together so well such that if they were humans they would be a match made in heaven. Don’t forget to include ice cream as a part of dessert especially if your wedding is on a sunny day.

9. Pigs in a Blanket

When you have a backyard wedding, pigs in a blanket or hotdogs are wonderful comfort foods for your guests. You can make a point of planning this with your wedding caterer so that they understand your idea of pigs in a blanket. The guests can enjoy themselves as they eat this wonderful meal while they interact with each other.

10. Classic Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

There is no other appetizing way of serving tomato soup other than in drink glasses so that one deeps the grilled cheese. This comfort food has delicious qualities and tastes. Your guests will walk off the wedding satisfied.

When planning a wedding it is always important to keep up with the latest trends while ensuring your dream wedding happens just as you imagined it. With bit of creativity you can easily plan your wedding in an easy and fun way.

Here is what you need to do and know when you embark on planning the wedding

1. It is advisable to always call your parents

Don’t make any haste, your family members, especially parents should be the first ones on the know. The next people should be your friends who have been around the longest. A social media platform could be the most effective way to share the news of your engagement but it is not the most personal. You know the closest friends and family members who will be thrilled to hear the news from you first before it appears anywhere else.

2. Designate a message of honor for other people later

A wedding day is a very important day as it will be thronged by various people. It would be disrespectful if you were to spend the better time of the day on the phone instead of taking time to appreciate the guests who are gracing the occasion. You can always get someone to keep the social media updated on the day’s events. You can also choose to keep people in suspense and post photos at a later date.

3. When posting engagement rings, keep the nitty-gritty details private

After posting a picture, it is not necessary to post details about the carats and price. Just take a nice photo and indulge people with it; they will all be dying to find out exactly how it looks like. Everyone will be checking out your hand before the big day so make it easy for people to admire from a distance.

4. Change relationship status beforehand

Once engaged or you’ve tied the knot, you can decide with your spouse to change the status. For some couples it could be a big deal while for others it is not.

5. Send a card for the main event

For pre-weddings and parties and email or even a short message is very okay but when it comes to the big day, a physical invite means a lot and could go a long way.

6. Get a wedding hash tag

With the digital world, hash tags have become a norm amongst majority of people. Inspire your guests to use it by coming up with an attractive set up on the material day.

7. Public posts should appear in a positive way

Address each difficult situation in a positive and direct way to avoid causing rifts and tensions during the planning process.

8. Ask questions in an appropriate setting

It will be very ignorant and rude of you to start asking the bride and grooms questions in a public place, where people who are not invited can hear. Avoid social media places for such and always get a private meeting to discuss anything that needs to be done.

9. Respect the decision of the couples

In case the couple hasn’t made the announcement then there is no need for you to go ahead and spill the beans. Hold off on sending the public congratulatory until when they feel it is the best time to share it.

10. Behave your best

When invited to a wedding it is also time for you to have fun. Don’t be on the phone all the time documenting the wedding on a periscope.

11. Share photos of the newlyweds

Only do it with their consent since they might only want to share photos taken by their wedding photographer.

12. When taking pictures, be mindful of the videographer and wedding photographer

Moving around all time with your phone isn’t proper. The best rule of thumb is to remain seated and take photos without interference.

On the wedding day, a bride is usually committed to other engagements and it is vital for a maid of honor to carry out her duties well. Right from taking care of the bride’s gown after the reception to filling up her glass when she is thirsty, the list is endless. Her most important role is to keep all incidences at a distance and make sure everyone is enjoying themselves.

1. Ensure the bridal team is on track and their makeover is done on time

In the instance that someone’s up-do is taking longer than it should, or the lip stick on the pride is not the right shade, step up and reshuffle all schedules to ensure the timings work perfectly. In a polite manner, notify everyone that time is not on their side so the day starts as early as possible.

2. Be on standby throughout in case a rip occurs on the veil or dress

An emergency kit should be availed on this day as it will come in handy because a zipper can break, or buttons can pop out. A thread and a needle ready will solve all these problems. Spillage can also happen on the garment, clean it off so the bride can go to the ceremony looking spick and span.

3. Be conversant with tying up the gown

Practice makes perfect. Bustling the gown up should be done right from the fitting, to the wedding eve so that you can tie up the wedding gown quickly on the day of the wedding. Especially if it is a bodice, it means there is involvement of tying ribbons.

4. The bride should be satisfied so that she can be productive

Ensure the bride is well fed in the morning to boost her energy. In case she is very jittery something substantial to eat will be okay. At the reception get her a plate with all the assortments being offered and also get her water or her favorite drink to keep her hydrated.

5. Be in charge of the bouquets

Be the point of contact and coordinate well with the florists for the bouquets to come in goodtime in the event there is no wedding planner. Also take the bouquet from the bride when she is at the aisle, and hand it over immediately she comes to sit down.

6. Be a host on the material day

Assist wherever and whenever possible. Take up the cue to help where there is need and take up the role of the couples and their family. Did aunty Margaret say she is vegetarian? Ensure her needs are met. Does it look like the wedding caterer and cake baker are having a disagreement? Try and solve it.

7. Take up control of any loose ends

Have a list for vendors who need to be paid at the end of the ceremony, especially when it comes to the wedding catering side. Be the person in charge during the paying process and ensure all dues are met. Also you need to be in charge of the gift table and keep them in a secure place after the party.

8. Take good care of the gown after the reception

The wedding dress at times ends up as a heap on the floor because the bride is rushing to get changed for the reception. Help her out by hanging it in a nice and secure manner. You get bonus points when you give it back in one piece.

Need to come up with away through which you can cut costs for your bachelor party? Worry no more. You simply need to come up with sensible ides that are agreeable with your groomsmen.

1. Organize a barbeque at your backyard

Do you have a barbeque grill and a backyard? Then you are good to go since you can organize a small party with your boys. Have everyone contribute something small like a side dish or drinks. This could also be the perfect time to try out your wedding caterer and change the menu if there is a meal you find not befitting.

2. Play a baseball game with the boys

Looking for something virtual to indulge in in an outdoor setting? Why not head to the nearest park for a ball game. Bring along your gear and a cooler of your favorite drinks and after the game you can bring the party to a local joint or head back to the best man’s house for more fun.

3. Organize a Karaoke for the groomsman

Singing with bad vocals can be embarrassing when done at a place full of strangers. What a good opportunity. Have an amazing time by getting the groom ready to perform strings of songs for his ready to be wife. Take him out to the nearest joint where a karaoke night is ongoing for him to have the night of his life. You can also take some videos that you can laugh at in later years.

4. Try bachelor bowling

Bowling is still as fun as one can remember. Divide yourselves into two teams and while the night away. The losers will pay for the drinks that you will take later in the night.

5. Have a memorable roast

Roasts should not just be left for comedy central. Get the best setting, round up the groomsmen and other guys and make a throne; creativity is essential here. Fill a room – it could be at home or a restaurant and start engaging the groomsman. Make it funny and very light just using the good memories alone. Avoid topics that are tough and hard to come to terms with. Let the night cause your ribs to hurt.

6. Indulge in a videogame

When was the last time you set foot in a video arcade? Things have changed so much nowadays as people have play stations at home. Depending on how good you can play, you will need many quarters or none .Do a thorough survey to see if there is still an arcade restaurant or bar in your area too. Playing Pac-man with a with your boys is far too much interesting than you could have ever imagined.

7. Attend a sports night

It is pretty simple but cannot miss in the list of possibilities. Have a bachelor party on the night of the big game. It could be hockey, basketball, baseball, or any other sport. Take a corner at the favorite local sports joint as you enjoy the game. Later, you can have the wedding catering team prepare for you delicacies to enjoy before the big day.

8. Take a road trip

Preferably to a funky and fun place. Make sure the groom will enjoy it.