The Wedding Guys

INSPIRATION FOR YOUR WEDDING

Wedding welcome bag gift ideas guests will love

March 25, 2020

When curating welcome wedding bag gift ideas for out of town guests, it’s nice to make them locally-inspired. You want to give your guests interesting yet unique things they’ll need the night of the wedding, or at least small items they’d love to receive.  And in keeping it local, your items are a great way to give back to your community. Of course, there’s the obligatory water and snacks to keep guests satiated, but we’ve also come up with a few clever items you might not know come straight from, or are inspired by, the Twin Cities.

SMACK IT TO ME

Kind Lips comes in many flavors, and it’s a great lip balm to keep your smacker in tip top shape. Plus, Kind Lips donates 20% of proceeds to anti-bullying organizations. How sweet is that?

KEEP HIM CLEAN

The men are often forgotten with the welcome basket items, given all the female-driven products out there, so let’s not ignore those beards and whiskers with this great line of shaving products from Honour Essentials.

A SWEET TREAT

Everyone loves sweets in their welcome basket, whether they break them open pre-wedding or late at night.  These locally-made Thumbs cookies are amazing, and come in a variety of flavors. 

GREAT FOR THE AM      

Whether you partied hard or not, everyone will appreciate a great cup of joe the next morning. Honour Essentials makes a unique blend that is sure to please.

A REUSABLE CARRY-ALL

Put all of your items in this unique Twin Cities tote from Maptote for a gift they’ll re-use over and over.  It’s a great talking piece, equally practical and stylish, and the perfect welcome wedding bag gift idea in and of itself.

All images courtesy of the vendors.

The Latest Products in Clean Beauty

March 25, 2020

If you’re a fan of the latest lipstick, the newest face mask or the best beauty products out there, you’ve surely heard of clean beauty. And if you haven’t, clean beauty means products without harsh chemicals—for the environment, and for your skin and body.  The movement for more and more products to be clean has exploded, and we’re showing you some of the latest products to hit to market.  Add them to your bridal beauty routine, or try them out with friends.  Some will help you relax, and others, help to highlight your already beautiful self. 

CLEAN BEAUTY OVERNIGHT

The Cloud 9 Silk Pillowcase from Moonlit Skincare is magical because it works while you’re sleeping.  It helps both skin and hair, by minimizing wrinkles, and alleviating hair breakage.  It even claims to extend your blow out for 2 additional days!  The 100% silk pillowcase is great for acne-prone skin, and doesn’t absorb face creams you apply at night the way cotton pillowcases can. 

CLEAN BEAUTY IN THE BATH

The Sugar, Salt & Clay Bar from Desily & Mitchell cleans, smooths, softens, hydrates, heals and nourishes skin. One of the great things about it is the ingredients list, all of which you can actually read, pronounce and understand, because it ONLY has organic raw sugar, Dead Sea Salt, Calcium Bentonite Clay, organic coco butter, organic Shea butter, organic beeswax, black and mahogany rice, and essential oils.  

CLEAN BEAUTY IN THE SHOWER

These shampoo and conditioner bars from Upfront Cosmetics look cool, and these bars are free from sulphates, parabens and synthetic fragrances. Each bar replaces 2-3 bottles of liquid shampoo or conditioner, and are pH-balanced, safe for all hair types and colors, and 100% vegan.

CLEAN BEAUTY MOISTURIZER

This Hydrating Cream, from Ona New York is both moisturizing and calming. (Who doesn’t need both of those lately?)  Good for both day and night, this cream leaves skin radiant and youthful-looking. It has some ingredients you’ve probably heard of like Hyaluronic Acid and Shea Butter but also has some you’re probably not familiar with like ABC Complex which is a mixture of natural ingredients including acai berry, aloe vera and birch tree juice extract. 

CLEAN BEAUTY MAKE UP

There are quite a few brands getting in on the clean beauty movement, and Blinking Owl Acres has cleansers and oils, as well as make up.  Their Featherlight Makeup (Foundation and Veil) is their version of mineral makeup, which includes powdered silk and loads of anti-inflammatory zinc oxide. “We believe that aesthetics and therapeutics should go hand in hand and that makeup does not come after skin care, but that makeup is the final step in your skin care routine,” says a representative from their company.

All images courtesy of vendors.

Jolie: The Hot New Bridal Line that’s a Game Changer

March 25, 2020

We’re excited to bring you a new bridal line from Berta, and it’s not even in stores yet!  Check out this gorgeous collection from bridal line Jolie, that uses high quality materials without prices that blow your budget.  As their new press release states, “With a brilliant and effortless design style, which varies from sophisticated boho to dramatic glam, this new line has it all. Bringing a new and refreshing take to bridal design, in a novel approach to what a bride is and what her boundaries are when choosing a dress for her big day.”

Jolie is the name of this new inspiring line, and it is for the chic, effortless and confident bride. The collection will arrive in stores starting July 2020. 

All Images Courtesy of Designer

How to Use Monograms for your wedding

March 18, 2020

One wedding style element that will never go out of style is the monogram.  Many couples love to use it because it’s the first time they actually can use it.  We’ve seen everything from Save the Dates to Cake Toppers to Thank You notes with monograms.  Here are a few note-worthy ways monograms can be stylish and chic elements for your wedding.

Courtesy of Monogram Custom Art

THE TRADITIONAL MONOGRAM

Always classic, the traditional monogram consists of the 1st letter of the bride’s 1st name, then the 1st letter of the soon-to-be shared last name, and then the 1st letter of the groom’s first name. Below, two of the four wedding programs use a monogram on its cover, each very different but cohesive with the style of their event.

Courtesy of Katie Fischer Design
Courtesy of Ginger P. Designs

THE MODERN MONOGRAM

Evelyn Miller, Owner of Epitome Papers tells us, “we have been finding that our more modern brides just want their first name and their fiance’s first name together.”  When it comes to really modern invitations, Miller often sees the monogram de-bossed into the paper (where it is pressed in with no ink). Gina Peterson of Ginger P. Designs, enjoys incorporating monograms into wax seals because, “It really is a traditional approach to our modern day weddings.”

Courtesy of Ginger P. Designs

A LITTLE TASTE OF LUXURY

“[In the past] monograms were used to signify wealth and social status.  Though that is no longer the case, it still gives a couple’s invitations a royal feel. Having a monogram also helps set the mood so your guests know this is going to be a classy event,” says Miller. 

Image Courtesy of Epitome Papers

A NATURAL LOGO

Miller says, “[Monograms are] a great way to give your wedding day a logo you can add to just about anything; napkins, coasters, menus, invitations and more.” And we’ve seen monograms on everything from dance floors to cake toppers. The images below show just how different a monogram can look by infusing your own sense of style. Each dance floor below from Holowalls, is different from the next, and they are varied because of color, style and font choices.

Dance Floor Images all courtesy of Holowalls

Both Cake Toppers Below Courtesy of Monogram Custom Art

THE LATEST TAKE ON MONOGRAMS

“One thing we have noticed that is slowly growing in popularity is having your monogram on the inner envelope or envelope liner! It gives a little extra elegance to your suite,” Miller notes.

Photo Courtesy of Epitome Papers

Miller says this along with “having their monogram on items such as matchbooks, wine glasses, and a keepsake they can treasure long after their wedding day” is getting more popular.

Monogram Custom Art, which made the sign and the cake toppers in this article, would like to offer our readers a discount, so to order one of their custom made products, use the code TWG10 at checkout for 10% off.

How You Can Get Married During Covid-19

March 18, 2020

With COVID-19 taking over almost everything, those planning weddings are scrambling to reschedule, or figure out what to do next. Well we are here to support you and to tell you there are ways to still get married during these unprecedented times.  If you’ve got the date and you don’t want to postpone, Curtis Kennedy of Curtis Kennedy Films tells us how you can live stream your wedding.

YOU DO HAVE OPTIONS

“First of all, I am so sorry that couples are having to adjust their wedding plans during these unprecedented times. It’s been encouraging to see the wedding pro community rally together and offer up solutions to couples! We have set up a variety of options for couples to help them get their ceremony captured and allow their guests to be as “present” as possible including single camera live stream, multi-camera live stream, as well as our standard ceremony coverage with next day delivery.”  Curtis tells us.

WHAT THE LIVE STREAMING COMPANY NEEDS

“We need the date, time, and location of the ceremony. We will then schedule the live stream with a custom URL that [couples] can share with all of their virtual wedding attendees. We can live stream privately via a custom page on our website, or open to a variety of platforms, including Facebook & YouTube,” Curtis explained.

“We provide all audio equipment needed to broadcast live with crystal clear audio. If their venue (or home) has a WIFI or Ethernet internet connection – that is great! If not, we can use a hotspot to stream. The only thing they need to provide is access to power.”

WHAT YOUR GUESTS NEED

As far as your friends and family is concerned, “All their guests need is a computer or smartphone with access to the internet!” says Curtis. So you really can live stream your wedding, and have lots of loved ones witness your nuptials in the process.

To find out more about how you can live streaming your wedding, you can email Curtis directly at curtis@curtiskennedyfilms.com or inquire at curtiskennedyfilms.com.

All photos courtesy of Curtis Kennedy.

Beautiful Bouquets Perfect for Spring Weddings

March 18, 2020

Some chose when they marry because it’s when their favorite venue is available. Others for the season they want to get away on a honeymoon. For flower lovers that don’t want to break the bank, choosing the time of year when your favorite blooms are in season is a smart way to go. For those of you getting married in the spring, we have some pretty spring bouquets that will show you just how gorgeous your floral elements can be. Take a look at these beautiful bouquets for spring weddings.

PERFECT PASTELS

Event Lab created this bouquet of roses, lisianthus, spray roses, ranunculus, eucalyptus greens, just perfect for a spring affair. Photo by Jeanine Marie Photography.

Bride & Blossom made this gorgeous bouquet with 4 types of roses (vendela, amnesia, quicksand and majolica), ranunculus, lisainthus, cafe au lait dahlia, Queen Anne’s lace and parvifolia and seeded eucalyptus. Photo by Anastasilia Photography.

POPS OF COLOR ADD DEMENSION

Renning’s Flowers created this striking bouquet with hot pink spray roses, thistle, veronica, green hypericum, white wax flower, caspia, white and blush pink roses, feverfew, yellow solidago, purple asters and silver dollar eucalyptus. Photo by HD Photography.

The monochromatic look of these Phalaenopsis Orchids, juliet garden roses, peonies, and ranunculus from Bride & Blossom add to the richness of this bouquet. Photo by Casey Fatchett Photography.

Lilacs, white dahlias, white calla lilies, stephanotis, white ranunculas, pink astilbe, white spray roses, tree fern, myrtle, and ruscus make up this spring wedding bouquet by Renning’s Flowers. Photo by Midwest Lifeshots Photography.

CREAMS AND WHITES ARE CLASSY

Event Lab made this creamy (and dreamy!) bouquet out of peonies, ranunculus, freesia, roses, and pitt greens for a springtime wedding. Photo by Megan Norman.

And using one type bloom doesn’t take away the bouquet’s impact. Here is a bouquet made solely of a springtime favorite, peonies, and it is divine. Bouquet by Bride & Blossom. Photo by Jacquelyne Pierson Weddings.

Cool Finds You Need To Know About

March 18, 2020

We went to the Gift Show in New York City to check out the latest in stationary, gifts, home and lifestyle products in the market.  Here are a few of the cool finds we know you’ll be running out to gift someone, or be equally happy to add to your own gift wish list.

PUZZLES ARE THE NEW ART

The desire to get Zen, with various products that help you get there, (hello, CBD products!) has never been more popular. While some are into the coloring book craze, we tend to go for puzzles. Now there are gorgeous ones you can put together, and you might never want to take them apart.  We found a series from Jiggy, that even comes with puzzle glue, so you can turn it into art once it’s complete.

THE EYES HAVE IT

There are so many beauty products out there but All Eyes on Me Illuminating Eye Gels are unique because they are fast acting gel eye masks that stay in place. That means you don’t have to lie down while wearing them.  Put them on prior to make up or after a long night and you’ll avoid puffy, tired-looking eyes. The best part? The ingredients are derived from plants, so the product is good for you, while also being vegan and cruelty-free.  Ona New York

CANDY, ANYONE?

It’s hard to find a candy dish with personality, and this one shows you know how to have fun. Playful yet substantial, it can hold anything from pre-wrapped mints to chocolates, and shows you still have a child-like sensibility, even if you serve in style. Dish from Inspired Generations.

THE GIFT OF WINE IS FINE

There are gift bags for wine, but consider this: it’s canvas (re-usable and giftable) and also has a slot for two bottles! Perfect for taking to a party, or get-together where one bottle just won’t do. Available for white and rose as well, Maptotes

TIME TO RELAX

There are a lot of bath products out there, but this one was new to us. It’s Barr-Co. Original Scent Bath Tea.  You don’t drink it, you use it to soak in your bath, and this one is a blend of milk, oatmeal, vanilla and vetiver. Trust us, the trend for bath teas is coming, and we love this one. Original Scent Bath tea, Barr-Co.

A CLUTCH THAT SAYS IT ALL

Perfect for a night on the town with your girlfriends or an intimate dinner with your beau, this cool bag is modern and with a nod to a classic tune.  All you really need is love (and the perfect place for your phone, keys and wallet).  Kent Stetson

All Images Courtesy of Vendors

Heart Jewelry and Why We Love It

March 11, 2020

Heart jewelry will never go out of style, and that’s one of the reasons we love it. Dangling from earrings, on a long chain or on one of your fingers, hearts can be modern, traditional or somewhere in between. No matter what, they are always chic.  Here are some heart jewelry options for those that don’t wear their heart on their sleeve, but rather, on their ears, neck or fingers.

Heart Jewelry: EAR’S THE THING

Drop, dangle or hoop, an earring with hearts is pretty and playful.

From left to right, top row,, Eden Presley earrings with the secret messages of “love” and “dream” only seen on the back, heart shaped hoops by Marlyn Schiff, 2nd row earrings with arrows by Rachel Quinn, double hearts by Sydney Evan.

Heart Jewelry: PUT A RING ON IT

Whether demure or bold, a ring with a heart (or more than one) is always fashion-forward.

Top row, Rachel Quinn, center and right, Sydney Evan
2nd row Eden Presley
3rd row from Sydney Evan

Heart Jewelry: ON THE CHAIN

No matter what type of heart you don around your neck, it makes a statement.

Top Row: Left Necklace by Alex Mika, Center by Jennifer Miller, Right by Sydney Evan. Bottom necklace by Jennifer Miller

The MN Couple from Say Yes to the Dress America

March 11, 2020

In the final installment of our series of articles about TLC’s “Say Yes to the Dress America” we HAD to speak with the couple from Minnesota that made it into the series.  We talked to Brittany and Phil and heard all they had to say about getting married in NYC!

A TRIP TO NEW YORK CITY   

Brittany shared with excitement getting to go to the Big Apple, “It was an absolutely surreal experience.  We flew out to New York the weekend before to do some sightseeing.  This was my first time in NYC so that was already something to see.  They put us up in a hotel with the other brides. Everyone else we saw was trying to guess what state we were all from. ”

THE FAMOUS KLEINFELD’S EXPERIENCE

“Day one involved shopping at Kleinfeld’s.  We were greeted by the owner and had full access to everything. The store was exactly like it was on TV and many of the designers were there showcasing their dresses.  When it came time to shop I felt like they truly listened and came through with what I wanted.”

THE WEDDING DAY

After a cocktail party where the coupled donned state gear, (Brittany and Phil chose Buffalo Plaid!), Day 3 was the big day.  Brittany recalls the high temps on the day they taped the ceremony, “It was a long, hot day but seeing Phil standing by the Bethesda fountain was magical.”  Phil agrees that he’ll never forget the heat that day, “There was a lot of waiting and standing around because of all the people but when Brittany came onto the steps it was really exciting and worth it.”

And when Brittany and Phil found out that The Wedding Guys were involved in the planning, they were shocked to find that our team, straight from Minnesota, was involved in the entire wedding. “It was quite a surprise to hear that everyone coordinating the big day was from Minnesota.”

One aspect of the day that Brittany and Phil found surprising was “how friendly and caring everyone was. All the brides and celebrities really went out of the way to make sure everyone felt special and taken care of!” while Phil found the entire process surreal. “The application process was exciting.” Phil told us.  “It was several rounds with different elements (videos, interviews, questions) and each time we made it through a round I couldn’t believe we had a chance to actually do this.  Once we found out we were selected it didn’t seem real. It felt a little more real once we put it on our calendars but it wasn’t until Central Park on the wedding day that it actually felt more real. To be honest, it still doesn’t seem real.”

PROUD MINNESOTANS

When asked why they think they were picked for this special series, Brittany has some ideas and kind words for the people back home, “I think we were chosen because we represent a bit of the diversity MN has to offer.  Neither of us were born here but we still love everything about this state. (Phil was adopted from India as a child and I am from Wisconsin but moved to go to the U of M at 18.)  The thing I continuously said was that the best thing about MN is the people. I feel really proud about how well Minnesotans take care of each other.  I was so proud that TLC chose us to showcase our great state.” Clearly, this couple is very appreciative to be the MN couple from “Say Yes to the Dress America.”

FOREVER FRIENDS FROM SAY YES TO THE DRESS AMERICA

Brittany told us the show gave them long-distance friends, and she’s still in touch with the other couples from the show, “I didn’t even realize then how much of a bond we would have with them.  I was so fixated on Phil and not looking like a sweaty mess that I didn’t realize how cool it was to have all these new friends sharing an anniversary with us.  We now have a Facebook group and it is so interesting to know someone from every state. Now when I hear a news story about another state I immediately think about that couple.”

We have more interviews for you about this engaging series, as we spoke with both Randy Fenoli and Hayley Paige about their experiences with the show.

All Photos Courtesy of Brittany & Phil

Hayley Paige and Say Yes to the Dress America

March 11, 2020

TLC’s hit TV show “Say Yes to the Dress” has a spinoff show and you might know that we were a part of it!  This special 10-episode series gave 52 couples a once-in-a-lifetime experience to get married on TV in NYC. “Say Yes to the Dress America” involved bridal designer Hayley Paige, who helped the brides chose their gowns.  In part two of our series of articles about the show, Paige sat down with us to talk about her involvement in the show.

Designer Turned Bridesmaid

“One of the best things about being a part of “Say Yes to the Dress America” is that I get to play myself and fulfill the role of America’s Bridesmaid.” Paige tells us.  “It is wonderful to not only serve these women as a creative designer, but also as an advocate for their special moment.” As for whether the brides chose her designs for their walk down the aisle, she couldn’t provide any spoiler alerts, “you’ll have to watch the finale for the final number! Of all things, the most important part of my role is being a resource for each of these brides in finding the dress of their dreams … regardless if it’s a Hayley Paige gown or not!”

52 Couples, 52 Stories to Tell 

“Each bride brought something authentic and unique to the table. It’s a remarkable thing to be able to acknowledge and own your story…and it’s even more remarkable to have people reciprocate with compassion and encouragement. When you have 52 brides getting married together and all bringing something different, anything can happen…but in this case the showmanship was full of comradery and courage. It was really encouraging to feel a part of something “greater than” self.”

52 Couples, What Could Go Wrong?

Gathering 52 couples to get married in Central Park in front of TV cameras is a complicated endeavor.  “As with any wedding day, there are certain factors completely beyond our control. You can be as prepared as a Thanksgiving Turkey, but there will still be people that might not eat Turkey or might not like how the Turkey looks on their plate. I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but I will say that drama is inevitable…and sometimes even welcomed.” Paige tells us.  She also explained how this series differed for her from the original series, “I love being a part of both formats, but for “Say Yes to the Dress America” I was able to exercise my friendship muscles a little more. It made me feel a little “closer to the action” and more accountable.”

To read about what Randy Fenoli had to say about “Say Yes to the Dress America,” click here.

The series culminates THIS Saturday, March 14th on TLC.

Photos Courtesy of Hayley Paige

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