Tips From Wedding Professionals
Shopping For Your Dress
PRO TIP:
"One thing I've seen for the first time this year that I expect to see more of are removable skirts. The bride can have a sheath dress look and a ball gown look for much less than the cost of two dresses."
Before You Look At Venues
Advice On Flowers
PRO TIP:
"Your Guests Count--Realistically have an idea of your guest count before you start looking and booking a venue. Make sure the venue can accommodate the number of guests you will have."
PRO TIP:
"With florals, we're going to keep seeing garlands, as well as organic bouquets and centerpieces, all of which have had tremendous staying power among brides."
Photography Tip
PRO TIP:
"It’s easy for a photographer to put his/her best image in an online gallery, so be sure to ask your potential photographer to view an entire wedding gallery from beginning to end. This will help you see an entire body of work and not just the “wow” moments."
Great Video Advice
Tasty Tip From A Caterer
PRO TIP:
"You might think the ceremony and dance floor are the main attractions, but how often do you get to have all of your best friends in one place relaxing and hanging out? You’re ecstatic, looking your best, having fun with your friends, and getting ready for the biggest event of your lifetime! You’ll be sharing stories and laughing hysterically (or shedding a few happy tears). Plus, there's usually at least one emotional moment as your mom helps you into your dress or your dad sees you as a bride for the first time."
PRO TIP:
"Think snacks - Options for healthy and light, yet flavorful and satisfying, fare are practically endless. For the cocktail hour, think small: antipasto skewers with a grape tomato, ball of mozzarella and an olive drizzled with fresh basil oil, or mini lettuce wraps with chicken in a savory Thai peanut sauce. Get that sweet-savory pop with a pecan, raisin and apple crostini speckled with honey and tangy blue cheese."
Sound Tip From A DJ
Invitation Information
Inside Info For Honeymoon
PRO TIP:
"When considering a DJ for your wedding, remember that this person will have a live microphone at your reception to speak to your guests and family. Meet your potential DJ in person to get a feel for their personality."
PRO TIP:
"Your save-the-dates should go out 6 to 12 months before the wedding. Aim to order your invitations about four to five months out so they're ready to mail 6 to 8 weeks before the wedding. If you're having a destination wedding or getting married over the holidays, send out your invites 10 to 12 weeks before the wedding."
PRO TIP:
"When you are planning your honeymoon, be sure and book at least 6 months in advance so that you will have ample time to choose from a variety of locations. Plus, you may consider doing a Honeymoon Registry."
Enroll In Wedding University For More Tips
Photobooth Ideas
PRO TIP:
"In order to make your reception stand out from the others, you need to add a different and memorable element. Photo booths are a great way to get your guests in the spirit of celebrating. It is also a good way to get guests to socialize."
Bachelorette Party Tip
PRO TIP:
"A bachelorette party can be a great way to celebrate with your friends, have some fun, and take a break from wedding planning before the big day."
Linen Rental Advice
PRO TIP:
"Some venues provide linens while others allow you to choose a vendor who can supply these for you. If your venue provides the linens be sure to ask the length of the linens and color options. Some venues only provide lap length linens or white linens. If this is your desire then you are all set. If not, you may want to consider renting linens."
Limo Tip
PRO TIP:
"Consider hiring a limo service to add some style, excitement, and sophistication to your big day."
Dance Lesson Advice
PRO TIP:
"A wedding is a time to celebrate, and that means lots of dancing. ... Rock the Wedding Dance Floor with taking dance lessons."
Hot Hotel Tip
PRO TIP:
"As soon as you've picked a date, start to look for hotels in a wide variety of price points. Many hotels allow you to reserve rooms for guests under a special wedding block and a reduced rate. You can then release any unbooked rooms a month prior to your wedding. If the hotels you contact insist upon contracts with cancellation penalties, just say no—you don't want to be responsible for rooms you can't fill."
Flower Preservation Advice
PRO TIP:
"Book in advance to have the bridal bouquet preserved so it can get picked up at the reception."