Wedding TV Show's You Shouldn't Watch

Okay brides, you get home from work or school and turn on the TV as you flip through the channels you may come across wedding shows like TLC's Four Weddings, Say Yes to The Dress, Bridezilla or even David Tuteras "My Fair Wedding."  While entertaining, these types of shows can hinder your planning process more than help; and here is why:

We TV's Bridezilla - Well this one is obvious, just because you are getting married you do not have an excuse to be ridiculous and treat your friends, family or fiancé badly.

TLC's Say Yes to The Dress - The gowns are beautiful and the brides usually do walk away with the gown of their dreams, but it's the idea of bringing your whole entourage with you to judge or comment on your gown that is a real downer.  I think the bridal consultant would agree that having a maid of honor or other family member like your mother or grooms mother present is special; the only opinion that the bridal consultant wants to hear is yours.  If you feel beautiful and special in a gown, you shouldn't let your 10 friends who came along tear down your choice.

TLC's Four Weddings - Your wedding is not a competition, in real life you will not have a panel of judges with a score card rating each component such as food or atmosphere.  Please don't lose sight of what will make your day special to you and your fiancé because you want to please others and impress them with your wedding.

My Fair Wedding - Built on the premise that bride's can wait until months or even weeks before the wedding to get things in order and someone (David Tutera) will magically come in and save the day.  At this point the brides have usually made purchases and have deposits with vendors, and David comes in and "rescues" their wedding morphing it into a big (admittedly beautiful) production.   (Image courtesy of channelguidemagblog.com)

When you are planning your wedding it is easy to absorb yourself into anything and everything wedding, but you should try to have a healthy balance.  Make sure you spend just as much time doing non-wedding things and most importantly focus on communicating and enjoying your soon to be husband.  The better your relationship before walking down the aisle, the better it will be in years to come.

Lastly, remember your wedding is not a contest or an excuse to behave badly! Hire professional vendors and you will have no problem staying on track and within your budget for your big day.

~Happy Planning~

Wedding Budgets

Image courtesy of AllWeddingSecrets.com While every couple has a different priority list when planning their budget, there is a typical break down when it comes to putting your budget together.  Your wedding coordinator will have more realistic figures based on the area where you plan to get married.  Here are some of the "typical" budget break downs in percent form:

According to TheKnot Here is a basic breakdown of what you can expect to pay:

Reception: 48%-50% Ceremony: 2%-3% Attire: 8%-10% Flowers: 8%-10% Entertainment/Music: 8%-10% Photography/Videography: 10%-12% Stationery: 2%-3% Wedding Rings: 2%-3% Parking/Transportation: 2%-3% Gifts: 2%-3% Miscellaneous: 8%

• To avoid stress, allot about 5% of your budget for a "just-in-case" fund.
• If you're paying for your honeymoon yourselves, remember to budget for that as well.

Looking at this breakdown, it could be very different for a couple with a very small guest list who do not plan on using special transportation or who would like to really splurge on their food and drink vs flowers etc.  In the same token, some guest may want to have a larger budget for photos and videography vs entertainment.  Every couple is different but it is helpful to have a basic outline to go off of.

Happy Planning!

How to Calculate Your Alcohol Budget

When planning your wedding, the first thing you need to determine is your budget.  It may be the least fun part of the whole process but it certainly going to play a huge part in your wedding.  You can read more on how to set your wedding budget here.  So once you have determined your overall budget, you need to select your wedding venue and your wedding vendors.  Doing so will dictate what your needs are.  For instance your venue may have exclusive catering and beverage services meaning you cannot bring in a bartender to serve alcohol that you have purchased elsewhere.

If you do determine that the venue does not have exclusive vendors then first talk with your caterer to see what they offer when it comes to alcoholic beverages and serving.  Some caterers will supply an extra server at an additional cost to you to strictly man your bar, while others do not have insurance coverage or licensing to do so and you will need to hire your own bartender. So after doing your research and you still determine that you will purchase your own alcohol you will want to look into exactly what type of alcohol (beer, wine, cocktails) that you want to serve and how much you should purchase.

Your guest list should be pretty squared away when it comes time to make this purchase so that you are not buying more than you need.  You should also look over your list and think about your guests, are the majority going to want to drink beer vs wine or should you stock up more on hard alcohol for martinis or mixed drinks etc.  Also make sure to consult with your caterer to get their opinion on wine pairing with the food menu you have created (white wine vs red wine with chicken vs steak etc)

Here are a few websites that offer calculators designed to help you determine how many bottles of alcohol to purchase for your event.  You plugin the number of guests and it spits out the estimated break down of how much wine, champagne, beer and or hard alcohol to buy.

Bevmo Party Planner Calculator 

Naturally after you realize how much you will need to buy, your immediate thought is "how do I get the best deal on alcohol?" Hera are some key ways to keep your alcohol budget in check:

1. For wine, take advantage of sales at retailers such as Bevmo & World Market who will often offer a buy one get one sale. 2. Costco offers their Kirkland Signature wines that are not only affordable but also well rated by wine critics. 3. If your venue supplies the alcohol, opt for a limited or no host bar.  You can then set a block of time that you will pay for the guests drinks for example during the cocktail hour. 4.  Opt for a beer and wine only menu 5. Create a signature cocktail menu, this option limits the amount of alcohol you need to buy so that you are only buying the ingredients to make the signature drinks rather than trying to supply a full bar.

Lastly, please make sure to put some thought into how to ensure that your guests drink responsibly and what steps can be taken to get guests home safely should they "over-indulge."  Consider having a shuttle available at the end of the night or have a few business cards for taxi's handy.

~Happy Planning~

Wedding Blues

"Wedding Blues".. is it a real thing?  Apparently so.  What makes couples fall into this spell of depression after their trip down the aisle, and how do you avoid getting the wedding blues you ask?   Our advice is to keep a healthy balance leading up to the wedding so that you don't get consumed by it.  Have regular date nights and make plans with friends and family to do non-wedding related activities.

While not all couples experience these post-wedding blues, it is common among couples that were under a lot of pressure for their big day.  If you are taking on the planning process you might want to reconsider, and look into having in the very least a Day of Coordinator to handle the logistics for you so that both bride and groom get to have an amazing experience.  The last thing you want to do on your wedding day is fold napkins or tie chair sashes on 150 chairs, when you could be spending more time with your ladies and a nice bottle of bubbly getting "beautified!"

Another idea is to have dedicated time after the wedding, even if you aren't going out of town for a honeymoon you can have an at home honeymoon just the two of you.  You can rest your tired feet from all of that dancing you did out on the dance floor, and just relax together as husband and wife.

If you are still in the planning stages for your big day, head over to our vendor directory where you will find local wedding professionals to help with all of your wedding needs.

Free Wedding Printables

We always recommend hiring a professional when it comes to weddings & events so that you can trust that it will be done right the first time.  If you are a bride looking for creative stationary and custom wedding collateral, you definitely need to head over to The Idea Emporium for inspiration.  If you are Maid of Honor trying to be the hostess with the mostess on a budget, these free printables are for you.  Word of advice, printing from home may have its challenges and may not turn out as desired. Try these out ahead of time, so that if you aren't happy with them you will still have time to contact a professional. Photobooth Props - Six Months to Mrs.

Bows and Tags - PrintableWeddings.com

Chevron Invites and Favor Tags - The Tomkat Studio

Printable Bridal Shower Game - ElegantWeddingInvites.com

Just remember, for the best results contact a professional rather than printing from home.

Happy Planning!

Social Media & Your Wedding

As the new iPhone 6 and 6+ is released, we see more and more apps created out of convenience and our need to be constantly connected to the world around us.  We share tidbits of our daily lives, (some share more than others) but when it comes to your wedding you should consider how much you want to put out there.  Documenting your wedding in social media has it's definite pros and cons, according to SocialMediaWeek.org, Social Media has "intensified the pressures for wedding perfection."  Images courtesy of mediashower.com, venuesafari.com

To share or not to share...

The main issue that I come across is when couples have a limited guest list and a friend or family member get upset when they read via Facebook that others were invited, and they weren't.  This can be avoided by only sharing event information via private messages, or by phone or speak with anyone you think may be offended by not getting an invite to explain your limited guest list.

For those who are looking forward to sharing all of their wedding details online, social media can serve as a tool to help you not only post your information but to connect with others who want to share pictures or communicate. Here are a few different ways to use social media.

1.  Create a Wedding Website Access tools like sharing your inspiration details, gather and share photos, post your registry link or event information such as directions or local attractions for out of town guests.  You can create your own free site at TheKnot.com, MyWedding.com, WeddingWire.com or design a premium site at Sittinginatree.co. (Image courtesy of http://designmodo.com/wedding-website/)

2. Hashtags You can create a hashtag for your wedding, and put the information on a sign at your reception notifying guests of how they can post pictures or well wishes.  Dress it up by adding coordinating flowers or décor.  (Images courtesy exclusiveweddingtales.com)

3. YouTube If you have a dance number planned, or funny toast you can share these must watch moments on youtube to share with guests who couldn't attend.

4. Pinterest Pinterest offers a Privacy option for your board allowing you to make the board "secret" or choose to can view/submit pins.  This would allow your bridal party to be in on things without putting it on social media if needed.

At the end of the day, it is completely up to you if you want to keep your wedding information private, or share with the world so make sure to communicate your wishes with your friends and family.

Happy Planning

With This Ring

Choosing Your Wedding Rings

So you are engaged and you can finally go longer than 5 minutes without staring at your shiny new ring, but it is time to think about your wedding bands.  Do you plan to pick out your husband's band on your own, or go together? What type of metal or style would he like, as there are more options than one might think!  If your engagement ring came as a set with a matching band then you are all set other than deciding if you want to solder your rings together or not.  If your engagement ring was not part of a set, you can check with your jeweler to see if there is a matching band or decide if you may want to have a band custom made.

There is also a trend of just wearing a band rather than an engagement ring and wedding band, which is a nice option for women who work with their hands a lot and want to keep things more simple.  { Image courtesy of Brides.com } Of course, you could choose not to solder your wedding ring and engagement ring, wearing both or just one or the other if you would like.

Now when it comes time to choose your groom's band there are some things to consider: - Budget - Lifestyle (Type of work, if rough on hands will need a stronger metal) - Metal Type: (Gold, Silver, Platinum, Tungsten Carbide, Tungsten & Palladium) - Style, men's bands have evolved into some very stylish options!

See the breakdown on the pros and cons of each metal type, courtesy of Larson Jewelers. What is your groom's style?

Just think,soon you will be exchanging rings at the altar! ~Happy Planning~

Wedding Planning Tip: Wedding Day Photography

When you meet with your wedding photographer, make sure to discuss what is included in your wedding photography package.  From how many hours are included, if second shooters or assistants will be used, what the turnaround time will be for your photos etc.  Haven't found your wedding photographer yet? Use this handy planning sheet provided by Martha Stewart Weddings for your consultations!

Your photographer will likely recommend meeting at your wedding venue to walk through and cover some of the logistics for your wedding day.  You will want to know where you plan on having the ceremony, where you are walking down the aisle from and how long the ceremony will be (including any special readings or traditions) so that the photographer can gauge how much lighting/time will be needed and also where the best spot to shoot from will be.

Before your walk through your venue with your photographer, you may want to consider going to your venue at the time you believe you would like the festivities to begin so that you can observe the lighting.  If the sun is already going down, you may want to start earlier so that you don't miss out on optimal lighting for your photos.

To better estimate the time of sunset for your wedding date, you can look up your location and the date online at websites such as this one: http://www.timeanddate.com/astronomy/usa/chico

Happy Planning!

Related Posts: Planning Engagement Session Photos

**** Image courtesy of http://www.wedpix.com/articles/011/graphics/brian-tsai-working.jpg

Is Your Wedding Right Around the Corner?

Recently, I received an inquiry from a couple who will be getting married in just a few short weeks, and were starting to feel the pressure of getting everything together for their event.  The bride thought it was too late to find assistance, and the groom just wanted to make sure the wedding was everything his bride to be dreamed about.

I reassured the couple that it is never too late to get organized and work out the details for their big day. As a wedding planner I work with couples with various needs when it comes to their wedding day, some need a Day of Coordinator to handle the overall logistics and timeline of their day while others need assistance with their wedding from start to finish.

If you (or someone you know) are only months or weeks away from your wedding day, and find that you would like to have a coordinator help put all of the final details together please give me a call! In addition to your complimentary consultation, you will also receive a free toolkit to help you organize all of your information.

~Happy Planning~

Wedding Planning Tip: Draping & Lighting

If you have attended events at a local venue several times, you know what to expect when you walk in and in your mind the venue will always look the same aside from table decorations.  What if I said that your venue could be completely transformed by using elements like fabric draping and uplighting?  These elements will add a touch of personality and flair to your event, making it stand out from other events that guests have attended there. Adding decor elements such as draping and lighting gives your event a personal touch and will stand out in your photos. Before you meet with your decor vendor, discuss the limitations of your venue space with your wedding coordinator or site coordinator. This is to ensure that you are allowed to either use staples, tape or nails etc on the walls of the venue. Otherwise you will have to use pipe and draping around the perimeter of the room so that nothing is physically attached to the walls. You will also want to get the measurements of the venue space so that you can accurately get a quote for the draping panels and determine how many up-lights you would need to achieve the look you are going for.

You may have seen a previous post about my own wedding at the Card Center in Chico, where the talented WeDo Designs and Lisa's Flor Decor absolutely transformed the room by using draping and uplighting.  In case you missed it, here is the before and after pictures:

https://the530bride.wordpress.com/tag/the-card-center/

WeDo Designs recently used draping at the Elks Lodge in Chico and transformed the outdoor space.  The vivid colors caught the guests eyes and tied in the walk way with the rest of the event space.

For an indoor ceremony setting, jaws would certainly drop with this dramatic ceremony entrance! Image courtesy of http://venuesafari.com/dreamy-drapes-using-fabric-draping-at-your-wedding/

Pin spot lighting on the cake, and uplighting throughout the reception hall adds a very rich element to the overall atmosphere.

Image Courtesy of http://www.avantdecor.net/gallery.php

I also recommend saving some images that you find inspiring and showing them to your planner and or decor vendor so that you can give them an idea of the look you are going for. Just remember, the options are endless and don't be afraid to step outside the box and show your personality!

Happy Planning!

Throw the Ultimate Bridal Shower

Bridal Showers are a fun event to throw because let's face it you mix a little champagne with some pre-wedding excitement and everyone has a good time!  Besides, the design options are endless so get creative with your theme.  Note:  You do not have to stick with the colors the bride has chosen for the wedding! I consider the bridal shower as an event that the bride really shouldn't really have to much input it other than the guess list.  She has enough on her plate with the wedding, so let this be something that even she will be surprised when she walks in!  However, if your bride to be is very hands on, this approach may not work so play it safe if need be.

Suggestion: Contact a local wedding coordinator if you need assistance getting organized or getting vendor suggestions for  food, rentals (such as tables, chairs, linens) or even fun favors!  

1. Decor  Choose a playful or glam color scheme with fun pops of color or textures.  Save yourself time by finding coordinating paperie/decor packages that include invitations, banners or signage.

Minted's "Wildflowers" theme uses graphic prints and an understated color palette which allows you to throw in mixed textures and metallics for accents.

Wildflowers Party Decor - $1.70 from: Minted

You can mix textures like glittered champagne flutes to add a little sparkle. Catch the How-To Project on DIY Champagne flutes here.  

Create a simple floral arrangement and spruce it up by adding the glitter element on a variety of glassware.

Photo Credit: http://studioblush.com/blog/blush-floral-design/bridal-shower-2/

"Botanical Wreath" Mixes a variety of colors which gives you a lot of options for decor. You could easily choose a cream or blush linen to keep it light, or add a hint of formality with a black linen. Botanical Wreath Party Decor - $1.70 from: Minted

Botanical Wreath Circle Garlands - $1.70 from: Minted Botanical Wreath Table Signs - $1.70 from: Minted

2. Refreshments Lets face it, a party just isn't a party without yummy treats!  Depending on the time you plan on starting the event, you can choose to serve light refreshments, heavy hors d'oeuvres or a full meal/dinner.  We found a few inspirational ideas:

Photo Credits: www.Bridal Detective.com Photo Credit: Rochebros.com Photo Credit: Themeaningofpie.com Photo Credit: http://www.madiganmade.com

3. Entertainment

Choose the entertainment based on the group, usually a couple of games will get the party going and the crowd to mix. Bridal Shower Bingo Exclusive Personalized Things in a Bride's Purse Game Exclusive Personalized Why Do We Do That Game

If you know the bride well, and want to create a little spicier of a party: Ask the guests to each bring a pair of panties (you can call each guest and tell them what size the bride is and explain the game) so that the bride will have to guess who brought what, and turn a few shades red.. Check out this blog post from "Skip to the Details" where we found the game (it looked like a fun bridal shower!)

There you have it, the bride will be sure to remember this day as a time when her friends and family threw her a kick *** party!  Send the bride home with some treats, and of course the list of who gifted what so that she can get started on those thank you cards!

Happy Planning! Related Articles: 50's Theme Bridal Showers

************************ Affiliate Disclosure: The 530 Bride is a member of Minted Affiliate Marketing and may receive compensation for products purchased via links on our site.

Wedding Party Thank You Gift Ideas

Some couples choose to give their wedding party members gifts or tokens of appreciation for being a part of their special day, though it is not required it is usually customary to do so.  These gifts can range from the inexpensive, to the ultra luxe it just depends on your particular tastes and budget.  Popular items for the bridal party are jewelry, photo frames/keepsakes, personalized robes or tote bags etc.  For the groomsmen, cuff links, flasks, pocket knifes or mugs are among the most popular gifts. Can you venture outside of these parameters? Absolutely!

Here are some fun ideas to get you inspired:

1. Welcome Boxes Fill with small items that are personalized for each member of the wedding party. For instance their favorite candy, a perfume scent or nail polish color you know they would like,  mini bottle of their favorite adult beverage, or a new cd by their favorite artist? The options are endless. Photo Credit: www.weddingpartyapp.com

2. Sports Tickets/apparel If the best man is a hard core fan of the local team, take advantage by seeing if you can snag some good tickets or official apparel/memorabilia that will be sure to be appreciated.

3. Handmade Goods

If you are gifted with craftiness, put your skills to good use and make things like scarfs, jewelry, coin purses, throw pillows or artwork.  Not only will they be original gifts, but will feel more personalized for your wedding party.  Not so crafty? Not to worry, Etsy to the rescue!  Photo Credit: www.watermelonwishes.com

4. Individual Gifts Who says everyone in the party has to get something similar? If a groomsmen is big into gaming, and a bridesmaid has been wanting to try a new lunch spot who says gift cards or individualized gifts aren't the perfect solution.  If you have a wedding party that is difficult to shop for or is very involved in the community, you could also consider making donations in each bridal party members name to a special cause, like the local animal shelter etc.

5. Gift your talent/services If you are in the service industry or have a side passion such as gardening or painting you could offer your services such as a haircut/color, massage or day in the garden.  Not only is the service appreciated but it is a great excuse to get together and do something non-wedding related!

Keep in mind that thank you gifts do not have to be expensive and are often best when they come from the heart, so don't be afraid to do something different if you would like to.  Of course a personalized flask or shot glass can always come in handy down the line so if thinking outside the box isn't on the agenda you will be fine either way!

Happy Planning!

"530" Venues: Outdoor Rustic

Northern California offers an array of beautiful outdoor wedding venues, perfect for your big day.   Here is a quick look at just a few highlights of your options in the "530 area."  

Willow Creek Events Situated on acres of manicured lawns and canopied by huge oak trees, offering multiple ceremony and reception areas to best suit your needs including a 4000 square foot tent, or indoor barn. http://www.willowcreekevents.net; Photo Credit: Willow Creek Events

Gover Ranch Located in the oak-covered foothills of Northern California, Gover Ranch is a very special place to enjoy the most meaningful occasions and to create memories that will resonate for years to come. Within the grounds of what was once a working ranch, century-old structures are surrounded by lush gardens and sprawling manicured lawns. http://www.goverrancheventcenter.com; Photo Credit: Gover Ranch Events

TJ Farms - Chico Surrounded by idyllic green orchards on a country lane, and the grounds are immaculate — you'll find waterfalls, fountains, ivy-covered trellises, a pristine gazebo surrounded by flowers and gently sloping lawns perfect for mingling. Dignified old walnut trees shade the beautiful Southern colonial mansion on the farm. http://www.tjfarmsestates.com; Photo Credit: Drozian Photoworks

White Ranch Events - Chico Surrounded by acres of gorgeous scenery, the White Ranch offers the beauty and privacy needed to make the most of your special day. Let the winding paths guide you through a natural setting lined with sprays of flowers, lush, green vegetation and peaceful fountains. http://whiteranchevents.com; Photo Credit: Kim James Photography

Honker Bay Ranch - Oroville Surrounded by lush greens, offers bridal quarters and plenty of room for large events. http://www.honkerbayranch.com Photo Credit: Honker Bay Ranch

Patrick Ranch Museum - Durham This historic venue is located between Chico and Durham, situated on 28 acres of trees and historic artifacts.  A quiet country estate offering the amenities of a state-of-the-art event center.   http://patrickranchmuseum.org; Photo Credit: Josselyn Peterson Photography

Taber Ranch Vineyards & Event Center- Capay Taber Ranch is located on a 500-acre working ranch in the scenic Capay Valley and is available starting in early spring through late fall for up to 300 guests. http://www.taberranch.com; Photo Credit: Taber Ranch Vineyards

Ponderosa Ridge Ranch - Anderson Ponderosa Ridge Ranch Offers a Truly Personal and Unique Wedding Experience. Offering creekside and barn ceremony sites. http://www.ponderosaridgeranch.com Photo Credit: Ponderosa Ridge Ranch

TBS Ranch & Estate - Palo Cedro TBS Ranch & Estate is a place where old west meets modern day facilities, rolling grassy hills with mature oak trees.  Banquet facilities are within a large classic barn and can be used for dinner and dancing.  http://www.tbsranch.com;  Photo credit: TBS Ranch & Estate

Want to see more venues in your area? Leave a comment of what type of venue you are looking for, or send us a message at info@the530bride.com and we will be sure to assist you with some suitable options!

Pre-Wedding Beauty Trends

1. That Healthy Glow Many brides will start focusing on their skin as the wedding count down begins and want to achieve a "healthy glow."  Consider seeking a beauty professional/estitician for recommendations on products and treatments to help clear up any uneven tones, blemishes etc.

While controversial to some, tanning is often a go-to regimen for brides. There are many ways to achieve this look, and luckily there are sun-free options to consider such as spray tans & lotions.  Make sure to follow safety recommendations with any of these products or tanning services, and be sure not to over expose your skin to any harmful rays.

Remember that staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet will often help improve skin conditions!

2. Hair Extensions Who doesn't want to have the wedding day hair of their dreams?  If aren't naturally gifted with long locks or just want to do something different than your "normal do" consider extensions.  Extensions come in different price ranges depending on how permanent or natural you want them to be.  For example, their are hair pieces that are made to enhance an up-do and can be clipped in easily.  These are much less expensive than individual extensions that need to be glued in.  Natural human hair extensions will cost more than synthetic, but will offer the option to use heat tools like straighteners and curling irons.

It is recommended to talk with your hair stylist regarding your plans for your day of hairstyle, and give yourself time to explore the different options for hair extensions so that you have purchased  them in time for your up-do trial.

3. Nail Care  Since the moment he proposed, your nails have become a little higher priority with that rock on your finger. You may have already started taking bette

r care of your nails by using cuticle oil, hand cream or getting regular manicures.  While acrylic or gel nails have been a staple of the wedding day look, many brides are opting for a gel or shellac style manicure.  Prices can vary depending on the application of the nails, and the products used.  Often the bride will schedule a day with their wedding party to get manicures/pedicures/artificial nails done before the wedding.

4. Fitness/Dieting

Ask any fitness trainer and they will tell you that your health and fitness should not be a temporary goal, but rather an on-going and continuous effort for your own well being.  Realistically, brides may want to shed a few extra pounds or tighten/tone up before their big day.  It is important to try to eat a well balanced diet, and to not do anything extreme to achieve "rapid results" as these types of scenarios are not only dangerous but are usually very temporary. 

5. Artificial Eyelashes "False" or artificial lashes can enhance your wedding day make-up application and help define your eyes in photographs.  Lashes come in different styles depending on if you want individual lashes, full sets of lashes and will also vary on how natural they look.  A newer trend is to have eye lash extensions applied before the wedding, and often brides will start having this service months before the wedding so that they feel more natural and you can find a good length/fullness that works for you.  Make sure to do your research before having  artificial lash extensions done to ensure you this person has experience and good results with other clients.  Don't be afraid to request to see before and after pictures or testimonials from past clients.

Whatever beauty regimen you decide to partake in, just remember that you don't need to do anything drastic to look stunning walking down the aisle.  Your future husband, friends and family already love you just the way you are! 

Photo Credits 1.http://healthinskin.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Tips-to-Have-a-Healthy-Skin.jpg 2. http://avalon.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/feature-hair-extensions.jpg 3. http://www.nevaeh.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/9/files/wedding-nails/tumblr_ml242fjr021qkm7v2o1_500.jpg 4. http://www.fidelmafitness.co.uk/_/rsrc/1368628324038/wedding-fitness-packages/wedding%20dumbells.jpg?height=530&width=401 5. http://www.tanandglaminc.com/eyelash_extension_ba.jpg

What's in your wedding day bag?

We have all read in the wedding magazines about some of the bloopers that have gone down at a wedding, as simple as someone stepping on the back of your gown and ripping the bustle or maybe the waterproof mascara wasn't all that it was promised to be.  Either way, being prepared is never a bad thing.

I don't like the term "Emergency Kit" for a wedding because it reminds me of the jumper cables and flash light that you keep in your trunk, rather than something to ease your mind on such a big day.

The list of what items are wedding day worthy may seem excessive to some, but could come in handy depending on the circumstance.  I would say the following items are the basics, so we will start with those:

• Extra Copies of toasts, ceremony information, seating arrangement etc (Just in case)
• Brides Make-up Bag
• Mini Sewing Kit
• Snacks
• Super Glue
• Bandaids
• Pair of flats
• Deodorant
• Rubber Bands/Hair Ties/Bobby Pins
• Wet Wipes/Towelettes
• Stain Remover Pen or Wipes
• Dental Floss
• Tums, Excedrin etc
• Pack of Tissues

Now here are some items that are also helpful but could be brought in a separate bag or brought by a member of the wedding party if needed:

• Extra contact list of wedding party, and essential vendors
• Extra phone charger
• Sun Block & Bug Spray (good idea for an outdoor setting)
• Lighters (Keep those candles burning!)
• Bottles of water
• Ipod/Music with player
• Double Sided Tape
• Safety Pins
• Plastic Bags for belongings or even for trash bag
• Tampons
• Compact Mirror
• Small amount of cash (just in case)
• Extra Hair Products
• Nail File

The good news is that you will be surrounded by your friends and family on your big day, so they will be there to help should you need anything. So pack your day of bag and as always, Happy Planning!

Photo Credit: http://regalodesign.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/bride_bag_contents.jpg

The Big Question

The big question isn't "To be, or not to be" it is "Will you be my Maid of Honor?." This question shouldn't be taken lightly and you can't just ask anyone now can you.. it's sort of a big deal. Sure, you know who you want to have as your maid of honor, but have you considered how you want to ask or maybe you feel that it is a unspoken understanding that if and when you walk down that aisle, your bestie will be right beside you along the way. Either way we think we have found some pretty cute ways to ask:

1. Come right out and ask with a card The Big Question : Wild Strawberry Designed by Eleanor Grosch from: Shutterfly, Inc.

Stylish Request : Bay Designed by Tallu-lah from: Shutterfly, Inc.

2. Put a frame on it Maybe you don't have to ask, it is just a given.. place your fav photo here

Personalized Maid of Honor Frame from: Koyal Wholesale

3.  Pop the question

Pop up Message from Etsy

See other articles on Will You be My Maid? 17 Fun Ways to Ask...

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Propose to your bridesmaids

Vegas Baby!

When you announce your exciting news to your closest friends, odds are the responses will be the following: 1. "OMG Congrats, Soooo Exciting!" 2. "Let me see that rock!" 3. "So let's talk bachelorette party details, Vegas?"

Okay so you may have some variations but the general consensus is that your friends are super excited for you and therefore must plan the ultimate bachelorette party of course.  I personally have not done the Vegas bachelorette party, but my girls and I definitely gave Tahoe a run for their money.

If you see yourself walking down the strip in a veil and sash, than this post is for you.

Hotel Stay Before your designated bridesmaid or maid of honor books rooms at a hotel, first make sure that you have a solid head count of everyone who plans to attend and who can agree to put money towards a deposit.  (Tip: Use one credit card, and have everyone pay their portion of the bill to the designated card holder.)

Other things to consider are the amenities included, distance from the airport, and/or to the major attractions or sites you plan on seeing, and the general vibe of the hotel.  (You don't want to get kicked out or anything..)

Attire

When planning the attire for the trip, a good idea is to put together an itinerary first and then plan on what to wear.  For example, decide if the group will explore the town on the first night and eat in, pool day and then a nice dinner afterwards etc.  Some groups decide to do a themed outing like little black dresses (bride wears white, or other color to stand out) costumes, or fun hair/make-up.    Here are a few pieces for inspiration: Mystic Snow White Dress from: For Elyse Inc. Love Stitch Nashville Dreams Dress from: For Elyse Inc.

Stella & Dot Sutton Necklace - White Stone from: Stella & Dot

Stella & Dot Mallorca Chandeliers from: Stella & Dot

Stella & Dot Devon Chandeliers- Silver from: Stella & Dot Women's Shoes - ShoeDazzle - over 3.5" up to 5" Pump - White/ Off White from: ShoeDazzle Women's Shoes - ShoeDazzle - over 3.5" up to 5" Pump - Pink from: ShoeDazzle

Women's Shoes - ShoeDazzle - over 3.5" up to 5" Pump - Pink from: ShoeDazzle

Sashes, Tiaras & Party Fun The Bachelorette Tiara - $8.99 from: Bachelorette.com Bachelorette Sash - Pink Gemstone from: Bachelorette.com Bride-to-Be Spin Book - Tons of Wild Games! - $5.99 from: Bachelorette.com The 51 Most Popular Drinking Games - $13.49 from: Bachelorette.com

VIP Reservations Planning a trip for a large group can have some challenges, make sure to consider the size of your party when booking tickets, tables and other services.  Additional gratuity may be applied in some cases, so plan accordingly.  There are some benefits to a large group as you can often get into clubs and events and get upgrades such as tables or VIP etc because you are bringing a large group to their venue.  Call around to promotors and event companies to see if there is anything you can do ahead of time to snatch up some perks!

The point of this trip is to have an amazing time with your close friends or family members, so be safe and keep it classy!

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Wineries in Our Backyard

There is something about a winery that is just effortless and romantic, making it a perfect location for an engagement party, engagement photography, bridal showers and even an intimate outdoor wedding.  We tend to associate these beautiful winery venues with places like Napa, California or further south but there are locations here in the "530" area that would be just as magical.  Here are a list of some of the local wineries that may be just what you are looking for.

Anselmo Vineyards 28740 Inwood Rd, Shingletown, CA 96088 (530) 474-5546 http://www.anselmovineyards.com

Long Creek Winery Oroville, CA http://www.longcreekwinery.com

Gale Vineyards Durham, CA http://www.galevineyards.com

Dog Creek Cellars Durham, CA http://www.dogcreekcellars.com

Bertagna Son Kissed Vineyards Chico, CA http://www.bertagnawine.com

Odyssey Winery and Vineyards Chico, CA Visit their Facebook page

Rough and Ready Vineyards 17860 Cattle Drive, Rough and Ready, CA (530) 432-7373 http://www.roughandreadyvineyards.com

Vintner's Cellar Redding, CA http://www.222wine.com

If you are thinking of a destination winery event, check out this cool resource mapping out the wineries in California!

Photo Credit: http://www.weddinglocation.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/WineCountry2.jpg