The Wedding Guys

INSPIRATION FOR YOUR WEDDING

Fun Fall Boutonnieres You’ll Love

November 20, 2019

Photo Credit: Aimee Jobe Photography

Between the overall floral décor, the bride’s bouquet, her bridal parties’ blooms and more, often the groom and his groomsmen are forgotten when it comes to their floral accompaniments.  No longer. With super creative florists and these fun fall boutonnieres you’ll love, there’s no reason for the men to be without blooms. Here are some fab finds we just had to share, and we hope you are inspired.

ORANGE YOU HAPPY?

Tracy Ryks, designer for Joy Unspeakable Flowers, created this simple orange ranunculus boutinnere with assorted greens. This shows how a simple pastel hue can make quite a statement. And we just love how it pops against the blue suit.

Photo Credit: @erikahartphotography

A MIXTURE OF TEXTURES AND TONES

Sadie’s Florals made this bout using a peach spray rose, eucalyptus and bronze-dyed Italian Ruskus.
Melissa Stratton, Owner & Creative Director says, “In the fall, we love to pair soft-colored blooms with a mix of seasonal floral textures and greenery for boutonnieres. The multiple textures and tones reflect the changing fall landscape and offer endless possibility to make each boutonniere unique.”

Photo Credit: Erin Johnson Photography

INDIAN FUSION INSPIRATION

A Pocket Full of Posies created these boutonnieres that seem simple on their own, but when set against the other florals of the day, the pink roses pop.

A UNIVERSAL CHOICE

And who said all fall fun boutonnieres have to be the same? Stratton of Sadie’s Florals describes these boutonnieres, “Ranunculus are one of our favorite boutonniere flowers for the fall and year-round! They naturally come in just about every color you could want and they hold up very well. We love to set the groom apart by giving the groomsmen different colored blooms. For the fall, pairing a soft peach ranunculus with a little eucalyptus makes for the perfect classic fall boutonniere.”

Photo Credit: Janelle Elise Photography

JUST TUCK IT AND FORGET IT!

Here is a boutonier style from Joy Unspeakable Flowers that is actually a trend, called the “pocket bout”.  “No pins– simply slide into the pocket and go- just the thing for guys that seem always too confused as to how to pin!”   This pocket bout was from a wedding with a fall wildflower theme.

Provided by Joy Unspeakable Flowers

 

 

 

Fall Food Trends for Weddings

November 20, 2019

When temps drop, food gets heavier, or does it?  We’ve rounded up new menu ideas, the latest food trends at weddings, from Director of Event Operations at A’BriTin Catering, Chaz Tichy. Here’s what he had to say about what couples in our area are serving at weddings.

 

APPS HEAT UP

Tichy tells us, “During the fall we are still seeing a trend to Minnesota classics with a few tweaks.  Appetizers are always great for social hour. Butler passed hors d’oeuvres are becoming warmer and heavier. Our two most popular right now are butternut squash soup martinis and Tomato soup and mini grilled cheese bites.”

As for a station table, what’s known as a Grazing Table, filled with so many options it’ll make anyone’s mouth water, is very popular, and one of the big new food trends in weddings. “This table features artesian breads, homemade compound butters, jams, relish components, cured meats, and artesian cheeses.”

 

And as summer turns to Fall, Tichy says, “Salads are fickle come fall. We have seen a trend toward more savory flavors. Our Pomegranate Bacon salad has been the delight of many of our fall clients.” So save those sweeter salad ingredients for summer and springtime affairs.

 

ENTREES REMAIN CLASSICS

There’s almost always the classic meat, potatoes and vegetable combos in Minnesota come the Fall, but what changes for the clients at A’BriTin Catering is the way the potatoes are prepared, “The potatoes usually change from roasted to mashed around fall and we are finding that our smoked white cheddar mashed have sold regularly this season.” So think short rib, prosciutto stuffed chicken, or thick cut chops, paired with hot fall style veggies (Carrots, cauliflower, broccoli, various squashes) with whatever potatoes you prefer.

 

DESSERTS TURN DECADENT

 

Probably more than any other category, desserts get more decadent in the Fall.  When asked for examples, Tichy could easily tell us about sweet treats from Summer and Fall, “Whereas we were serving Bundt cakes and Wine Poached pears over the summer, heavier choices are made around fall. Two of our popular items are our Mini-Pumpkin Crème Brulee and our Bread Pudding bites with Cream cheese frosting.”

 

RICHER BUT SMALLER

And while the foods might be richer, couples know how to keep them sophisticated, “Foods packed with more savory flavors are very popular. Heavier foods and more dense options seem to be what we are serving up at our weddings this season. The grab and go option seems to be very prevalent during cocktail hours and dessert. Smaller portions for both are what are appealing to the eye, and the stomach!”

 

 

 

Why a Boudoir Photoshoot Makes a Great Gift

November 13, 2019

With the holidays upon us we wanted to share why a boudoir photoshoot makes a great gift.  Here’s the info you need, things you might not have thought of, and why a boudoir shoot makes a great gift.  And hurry up, as you’ll need to book it soon in order to get the final product in time for this season’s deadlines.

Bottom photo from 4 Girls Glamour

 

YOU’RE CELEBRATING YOURSELF WITH A BOUDOIR PHOTOSHOOT

“A boudoir photo shoot is an empowering experience that will boost your self-confidence. It’s a way to show self-love and self-acceptance, with beautiful photos you (and your significant other) will treasure for a lifetime.” say the experts at Celebrate Your Sexy.

 

4GirlsGlamour tells us, “Although the main purpose of booking a boudoir shoot may be to gift a gorgeous album to your partner, most of our clients feel that the session ended up being an unexpected gift for them. It’s a way to reconnect with themselves and celebrate their beauty and confidence.”

Photos by 4 Girls Glamour

 

Lauren of Lauren B Photography tells us, “Boudoir and Bodies sessions are tasteful and empowering. These are a true gift for yourself – and if your somebody gets to appreciate it too, then [it’s a] win-win!”

If you’re shy and concerned this isn’t your thing, a pro can help you get comfortable, as Lauren explains, “There’s nothing to worry about – I’m happy to direct with simple strategic posing and can tell you just what to do, where to look, etc. The session will be tailored to your preferences – do you want a boudoir session that’s light and bright or dark and dramatic? Or is a fitness or themed session more your style? Let’s chat about it! I find people are nervous for the first couple of minutes and then it is so much fun!”

 

YOU CAN PAMPER YOURSELF

You don’t have to, but what better reason to book a hair and make-up session? While you’re at it, buy some new lingerie and bring a few shoe options. You’ll be able to use them beyond the shoot, maybe even on your honeymoon. Also don’t forget to bring bridal accessories like the ring, a veil, or anything you want that will link the photos in some way to the wedding. These items will add your personal stamp to the shoot.  If you’re not sure of where to start when it comes to accessories, check out Celebrate Your Sexy’s Pinterest board called ‘Bridal Boudoir.’

 

YOUR BOUDOIR PHOTOSHOOT IS A GREAT KEEPSAKE

As those from Celebrate Your Sexy tell us, “Whether you’re celebrating a big life event, an important milestone, or your wedding, photographs are an amazing way to capture special moments in your life. You’ll have so much fun looking back at these amazing photos that capture how incredible and adventurous you are!”

 

BUT HURRY….

Most photographers that do boudoir photoshoots need about 4-6 weeks before you need your gift.  This is because once you’ve had your shoot, you’ll need to select your images and then customize what type of format you want your photos in.  Depending on the company, there are mini albums, “standard” albums, and other items your photographer might offer.  So check with your vendor for exact timing and details. And if all else fails, consider booking your shoot now and gifting it for Valentine’s Day, which will be here before we know it!

VOW: Vendor of the Week – Marry Me In The Northland

November 13, 2019

Marry Me in the Northland believes every couple deserves to have the ceremony that they want – even if they don’t know what that is initially. Let’s face it, most couples do not know what they want in a ceremony since it isn’t something that most put much thought into. Couples just know one thing “WE WANT TO GET MARRIED”.

So Marry Me in the Northland starts by asking questions like: What do you like? What is the theme of the wedding? What don’t you like? Are you having pets? Kids? This guides them as they discuss your options, give you ideas. Before you know it, your ceremony is done.

 

We sat down with Annette Lahr to find out more.

Q: What does your business specialize in?

A: We provide Marriage Officiant Services

 

Q: Where are you located?

A:  We are located in the Duluth MN and Superior WI area but travel extensively

 

Q: What makes your business stand out compared to other options?

A:  First off, We love what we do! We are professionals – all Officiants who join the team has extensive training in all aspects of a weddings.  We are the only Group of Officiants in this area.   We provide totally customized ceremonies for couples based on what they want and who they are.  We explain exactly what the process is from getting your marriage license to walking out after being pronounced “Married”.  Marry Me in The Northland has a group of Officiants.

 

Q: When and how did your business begin?

A:  I was attending PRIDE in Duluth MN in 2013 – this was the first year that same sex couples could get married in MN there were a lot of couples celebrating this event by getting married.  The Minister was behind schedule due to road construction and they were asking other Minister’s/Officiants if they would help with the ceremonies for the couples.  It was a very very warm day.  I was shocked when these “Ministers” and “Officiants” said no.  Well that was the last straw for me.  I became ordained and started doing weddings since that time.  Everyone has a right to marry the person they love regardless!

 

Q: What’s an average day like for your business?

A:  Each day is unique but reaching out to couples by email or phone is typical.  Answering questions, doing referrals, explaining our services and, of course, doing weddings and rehearsals, creating ceremonies.

 

Q: What would you want couples searching for your business type to know?

A: We keep your stress to a low level!  We are a calm group of people. We know what we are doing and will guide you through this process even if you don’t know what you want.  We are fine with unique requests or dressing for a theme.

 

Q: Do you have any memorable wedding stories that you could share?

A: There are many but I will share this – I was doing a wedding Lakeside.  There was a clothesline draped with fabric to separate the entrance to the wedding site.  This was not unusual.  However, the bride let me know about 10 minutes before that she had a special event planned for the groom and she had gotten the DJ in on it as well as my husband who was there to help in the background.  So just as one would expect the Bride to walk down, the music changes to “Jessie’s Girl” by Rick Springfield (the bride’s husband to be was named Jesse).  We can see movement behind the drapery and the next thing we know we have a person coming out in a dog’s costume dancing to Jessie’s Girl with a sign for the Groom.  The groom was getting nervous as he did not know where his bride was. Everyone knew based on the sign that it was the bride – she danced up to the groom, gave him the sign kissed him on the cheek and left.  Again we see a lot of activity behind the drapery.  A few minutes later the bride comes out in traditional dress (ballroom style with a rainbow pettitcoat.  It was awesome!  Apparently the skirt on the wedding dress was removable!.  The groom was emotional, the bride was out of breath and emotional and the guests had a great “opening” for the ceremony.

 

Q: What is your favorite thing about your business?

A:  Meeting new couples, hearing their stores and get affirmation every day that Love surrounds us  if we just open our eyes to it.

 

Q: How far in advance should a couple book with you?

A: Most couples book us 9 months in advance but each couple is different.  If we can accommodate you, we will.  That is the nice thing with multiple Officiants available, we can usually accommodate.  In prime wedding season, we get calls all the time from couples who officiant cancelled.  We done weddings with a 24 hour notice if necessary.

 

Q: What do you like about working in the wedding industry?

A: Seeing the creative process of the couples and vendors that they are working with.  Some of their ideas are fabulous and the decorating/colors are wonderful. Always excited to see new venues or a new trend.

 

 

Lightning Round questions:

 

Q: Describe yourself (or your business) in three words:

A:  Calm, professional, adaptive

 

Q: Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall Wedding?

A: All of them

 

Q: Red or White?

A: Definitely Red – as long as it is a blue undertone

 

Q: Heels or flats?

A: Heels

 

Q: Veil or no veil?

A: Either

 

Q: Black Tie or Farm to Table?

A: Couples choice

 

Q: Chocolate or Vanilla?

A: Vanilla

 

Q: Milk, Dark or white chocolate?

A: OMG – white chocolate

 

Q: What’s your go-to comfort food?

A:  I don’t have a food, but I like to bake

 

Q: What is your favorite board game?

A: Monopoly

 

Q: Favorite music genre?

A: I like a lot of variety

 

Q: When you were little what did you want to be when you grew up?

A:  Doctor – but my parents discouraged it

 

Q: Who would you like to sit next to on a plane?

A:  Always my husband – if not him then family, then whoever.  I have a tendency to make the best of any situation

 

 

Trends in Wedding Flowers

November 13, 2019

Flowers are often the central décor element in weddings, and lucky for us, florists are brimming with creativity. Here’s what’s blooming in wedding flower trends, hopefully it’ll give you some floral inspiration.

Photos Left and center: Melissa Oholendt Photography, Right photo: Tinge Photography

PINTEREST INSPO: FLOWERS OF ALL SIZES RULE

You know those large and bountiful bouquets you see all over Pinterest? They have started a trend in wedding flowers themselves.  Large round arrangements will never go away but in an effort to stand out and personalize, couples are requesting big asymmetrical shapes with cascading greens.  Less “put together” and more natural styles are what bridal parties are carrying more and more, to give a less strict and formal air, and keep the vibe casual and cool.  “Trailing flowers are big, whether in the bridal bouquet or trailing off the tables or ceilings,” says Summer Harsh-DeMers, of Summer Harsh Botanical Artistry.

Photos above, left: @erikahartphotography, right; @katiekopan

And because anything goes when it comes to your own personal choices in wedding design, Christi Poppler, owner of Studio C Floral tells us that “Trending for next year, are smaller bridal bouquets, but much more detailed in design. We are seeing a lot of small and delicate flowers being used, and especially blooms that aren’t so common.”

Harsh-DeMers, of Summer Harsh Botanical Artistry agrees, “I have been getting requests for smaller, slightly more tailored styles.  It’s about finding a balance of a natural organic shape and something a little polished.”

TRENDS IN WEDDING FLOWERS: PAMPAS GRASS

Melissa Stratton, Owner & Creative Director of Sadie’s Couture Floral is noticing a trend with the use of pampas grass.  “Our favorite wedding floral trend of the moment is pampas grass! Whether it is paired with clean, contemporary white floral and bleached greenery or mixed in with pops of neutral color, it is a sure way to bring in a natural, soft palette to any wedding decor. “

Photo Credit:  Cadence & Eli Photography

Sadie’s Couture Floral created the bouquet above of pampas grass, white phalaenopsis orchids, white anthurium, bleached italian ruskus, and sweet escimo roses.

MODERN OR TRADITIONAL AREN’T YOUR ONLY CHOICES

With couples, designers and their vendors getting more creative, so are the descriptions of what they want in everything from gowns to cakes as well as flowers. A bride can be “boho chic”, “woodsy” or “whimsical” no longer only choosing between being super modern or utterly traditional.

CHOOSING THE FLOWER NOT THE SEASON

One of the best ways to stay within your budget when it comes to flowers is to pick blooms that are in season.  That means they don’t have to be flown in from some far-away place because they are growing naturally during the time you need them right near home.  But couples, in their desire to stand out and have individual looks at their weddings, are forgoing that and choosing blooms you might not expect for the season of their wedding, so says Meghan Ryks, lead designer at  Joy Unspeakable Flowers. For the adventurous (with a larger budget) think peonies or hydrangea in winter, when those are usually reserved for spring or summer.

COLOR IS MAKING A COMEBACK

“Traditional” brides often have an all-white or mostly white bouquet, but now we’re seeing requests for more color in floral accessories.  Rather than blend into their gowns, brides are using their bouquet to make a statement, or really just to add a pop of color to many photographs. For bridesmaid bouquets, color is also taking over. Requests of solely white and green flowers is fading, and what’s taking the lead now are colors that complement bridesmaids’ attire, whether it be in neutral tones or darker colors. Christi Poppler, of Studio C Floral, is seeing brighter color palettes. “Our clients are looking for a fun and lively vibe, and are looking to have their décor reflect that. Painted foliages, and dyed blooms are being shown everywhere as well, and it’s fun to have some color and texture variety in what we can offer in floral.”

Bouquet from Studio C Florals

Summer Harsh-DeMers, of Summer Harsh Botanical Artistry, agrees, “To my surprise I have had multiple requests for bridal bouquets with little to no greenery or foliage.  They are looking for a more saturated and dramatic color scheme and green doesn’t always fit in.  That being said, I definitely see a lot of colored foliage or bleached foliage making an appearance.  Blush and champagne will always have a place but we are now mixing them with deep contrasting colors such as rich berry tones.  This gives a dramatic contrast that still feels warm.”

Left Photo: Melissa Oholendt Photography, Right photo: Tinge Photography

BUT…SOFT TONES AREN’T GOING ANYWHERE

Couples that prefer a more subdued color scheme are still on-trend as well, as Melissa Stratton, of Sadie’s Couture Floral told us, “Another trend we love right now is the focus on big, romantic and soft-toned blooms. From Spring to Winter, a mix of neutral cream, beige, grey and soft blush tones can be the perfect complement to a range of romantic palettes.”

Photo Credit: Janelle Elise Photography

Sadie’s Couture Floral created the above bouquet of white peonies, white ranunculus and roses.

GOING SENTIMENTAL

More and more couples are choosing flowers based on sentimentality (perhaps the same flowers in the bouquet that their mother had) or a wrap with special meaning.  Joy Unspeakable Flowers gets special requests for bouquet wrapping that might include specialty ribbon, jewelry, or items memorializing loved ones who have past.  This is a lovely way to personalize your wedding and make it unique, whether you want to follow trends in wedding flowers, or not.

How to get along with in-laws over the holidays

November 13, 2019

We know that with the holidays approaching, family get-togethers can be fun, but they can also be stressful. Here are tips on how to get along with in-laws over the holidays.  Keep these things in mind and you just might enjoy the next family gathering.

 

Team Work 

This will be the basis of all successful in-law relationships, work together with your spouse to-be.  It is important to remember you are a team now and any conflicts you encounter with either side of the family should be dealt with together.  If you can’t do this, the in-laws can quickly turn into “out-laws.”  Being part of a team also means support.  Never put your spouse to-be in a situation where they have to choose sides between you and a relative, try to support their family relationships even if you have some differences.

Set the Standards

It is important to be open and honest with your spouse to-be about your expectations of the in-law dynamics.  Communication is key! Decide what is important and what is not.  Talk with your fiancé (ahead of time!) about what the right amount of time spent with each side of in-laws feels appropriate to you both. Going into it understanding why and when you’re leaving might take a lot of stress off, and remember you can always adjust this next year if something didn’t feel quite right this season.

Topics to avoid 

There are certain topics to avoid when it comes the holidays and mingling with the inlaws, but our top three are: Politics (many a holiday table discussion has gone in the wrong direction with this one), Religion (with multicultural couples this could be a bad subject with older generations) and Children (you might not know if in laws are all on the same page on this one, and more importantly, if they are on the same page with you, so best to steer clear of it.  Remember, the in-laws are not your besties, and they aren’t YOUR parents; keeping this in mind will hopefully avoid a lot of arguments.  Knowing ones’ place, and others as well, will help guide what conversations are appropriate.

Stay true to you

Don’t feel like you have to morph into someone you think your in-laws want… your soon-to-be spouse fell in love with you and that’s who he or she wants to spend the rest of his or her life with.  Of course, you will need to compromise and be considerate, but in doing so be sure you stay true to yourself and stick to your guns!  On the other hand, if something comes up that rubs you the wrong way and upsets you, don’t let your emotions get the best of you.  Give yourself time to cool off and consider their point of view.  If you still feel the same way after giving yourself some time away from the situation, then consider talking to your spouse or in-laws about the situation after you’ve had time to settle down.

Have fun and you will get along with your in-laws during the holidays

You’re getting an addition to the family! Maybe it’s the big brother you never had, or the large family get together filled with light-hearted chaos, whatever it may be, focus on the positives of this new relationship.  Having in-laws can become one of the greatest blessings in life, so cherish every moment and opportunity of this “getting to know each other” time period.  Most likely you’re going to look back and laugh that you were nervous about how to get along with your in-laws over the holidays.

Designer Feature: Romona Keveza

November 6, 2019

Romona Keveza has become an icon in the bridal fashion industry. Not only because her gowns are gorgeous, but also because they stand the test of time. We sat down with the designer during New York Fashion Week to talk shop and find out how she does it.

“Fabrics are not common, they are becoming more and more rare. The Romona Keveza Collection is really the best of the best, silk crepes, one woman starts and finishes the dress, it’s not an assembly line, this is atelier processing.”  Romona opened her show with an introduction that really expressed what makes her gowns the fine garments that they are. Take a look….

 

 

The Fall 2020 Romona Keveza Collection consisted of gowns perfect for the customer that truly understands quality garments that are investment pieces.  “Using the best techniques and made in North America,” the gowns are for women “who value investment pieces, she’s the one who buys a limited-edition Gucci bag and she’ll probably never wear it, she’ll have it in her closet, but it will probably be worth triple the amount of money within ten years.”  Not only that, but Romona’s sustainable fabrics (which she has always been using), such as all natural silks, and techniques (all made by hand) are the key elements that make these gowns so incredible.

“I’ve seen a lot of changes in my 19 plus years in the business, it’ll be 20 years next year in 2020.”  Romona might have seen changes, but has resisted it all along when it comes to how a garment is made. Passionate about “using the best techniques and having them made in North America” she cares about the quality of the fabrics, and the conditions of the workers. She also broke down her other lines for us with clear descriptions of who that particular bride is.

“Romona New York line is for that girl who doesn’t want to spend more than $3,000, the free- spirited girl, more relaxed, she could be getting married on a yacht in Greece, or on a vineyard, she could be jumping into the ocean after her ceremony, it’s that kind of a look, with a very New York vibe regardless of where the wedding is.”

 

 

“Legends is very classic, it’s timeless, it’s the kind of dresses that Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, Jackie Kennedy became famous for. You don’t see them beaded from head to toe, you didn’t see those women in beaded gowns head to toe, and here it is 70 years later and they are still in style. So that’s what my inspiration is for Legends.  I can say with great certitude that the dresses I made 20 years ago are still in style today, tomorrow.  And that’s what I aspire to.”

So without heavy ornamentation, here are some of the beauties from Legends:

 

 

As for what’s in store for her 20th anniversary, we’ll have to wait and see.  She did tell us about a fabric she has, called reticella lace, for which there’s a two-year waiting list because there’s only one loom of it. Found on a farm in Italy, “It’s very delicate; ’reticella’ means fishnet, and it was used purely for royalty” the designer explained.  She has been holding on to for the right moment, and for the right gowns.  So maybe the 20th anniversary, a milestone many designers aspire to, is the perfect time to break out that amazing lace? Stay tuned to find out!

Wedding gowns for plus size brides

November 6, 2019

 

The latest bridal fashion collections showed us more than just lace and sleeves and pants. We also noticed a lot of wedding gowns for plus size brides in a variety of styles, all of them were gorgeous. Take a look….

THEIA

Don O’Neill, Theia’s designer always presents at least one plus size look in his collection, and this season was no different. At least three wedding gowns for curvier brides came down the fashion runway, all with a feminine yet sexy vibe…..

WATTERS

There were three lines by Watters this season, the namesake line, Wtoo, and Willowby, all with wedding gowns for plus size brides. We loved the variety of necklines showcased by Watters.

Wtoo’s looks showcased florals and lace ornamentation.

And Willowby’s romantic off the shoulder style was completely different from the beaded V neck gown yet both oozed of sex appeal….

KAREN WILLIS HOLMES

Karen Willis Holmes’ Curve Collection offers a variety of looks, here we show just two of many beautiful styles, and these both prove wedding gowns for plus size brides can be sexy, sophisticated and chic without showing much skin.

DAALARNA CURVY FOLK COLLECTION

This collection had so many pretty gowns  and this macramé top with flutter lace sleeves is so romantic, as is the guipure lace top and V neckline, also from Daalarna Curvy Folk Collection.

All photos courtesy of the designers.

 

 

 

 

A Recap of what happened at Unveiled

November 6, 2019

Want to know everything that happened at Unveiled?  This past Sunday Unveiled showcased some of the best wedding vendors in our area, and that meant attendees got to see everything from stationary and calligraphy to fashion, cakes, furniture, photography, DJs and so much more! Upon entering the hall at The Minnesota Convention Center, couples were able to practice writing their “new name” on our name wall, before getting their bag to fill with lots of goodies as they walked the entire Unveiled experience.

 

 

We talked to some attendees and here’s what some of them were thinking as they went through the event:

Jessica, getting married in January “I’m looking for options for things I might not have thought about before, and I’m looking for a photographer, a DJ, and flowers”

Kyra, getting married September of 2020, “I’m looking for DJs, bridesmaid dresses, menswear and a videographer.  We booked a couple of appointments for bridesmaids and I met a few DJs I’ll connect with after the show.”

Lauren and Matt, getting married next year, “I’m looking for a venue and a dress. We enjoy going to these shows because there are ideas I might not have thought of before.”

Whether couples went into the Destination and Honeymoon Showcase to explore options from AAA, the Aruba Tourism Board, or others, or they enjoyed the Fashion Show from Mestad’s Bridal and Formal and M. Elizabeth Bridal, there was beautiful wedding inspiration at every turn.

 

 

Those that attended the TrendSpot Fashion Show saw plenty of pretty gowns, and many were inspired by the trends that The Wedding Guys, Bruce and Matthew saw in NYC at Bridal Fashion Week. There were sophisticated gowns with minimal ornamentation, and others in romantic lace or with sexy necklines.  There were also some pretty chic bridesmaid options for those looking to dress their maids in the latest trends like jumpsuits and jewel tones.

 

 

When they weren’t looking at all of the latest bridal and bridesmaid dresses, couples could talk to photographers, videographers, calligraphers and get ideas on venues everywhere from vineyards to hotels.  There was information on restaurants where you could book rehearsal dinners, and vendors showcasing furniture options.  For those with a sweet tooth, there were dessert offerings from North Mallow’s S’mores and Café Latte’s mini cakes and more.

 

 

HyVee showed off some amazing cakes, food and floral designs, proving they shouldn’t just be looked at as a grocery store, but so much more.

 

 

A Marie Antoinette-inspired display showed off gorgeous tablescapes, florals and a cake from Terry John Zila, of johnjeanjuan.  He described some of the motivation behind his scrumptious creation,  “I wanted to focus on the softness of the era, and I thought about gilding but decided it was too much.”  He also had a great tip about balance, “It’s a one thing to be over the top, but then there’s overkill.”  This tip applies to everything you’re working on for your wedding, and by the looks of his cakes, he knows just when to stop in making amazing creations that perfectly balance elegance and style without going too far.

 

And that’s just some of everything that happened at Unveiled.  We hope you got a chance to come but if you didn’t, don’t worry because the next one is February 16th, so you can join us then!

 

 

Just Ask Bruce – The Order of Things

October 30, 2019

Sometimes etiquette rules for weddings can be a bit difficult to adhere to in today’s social situations.  In this article I will explain why sometimes it’s okay to make modifications or changes.

 

True Story –

There was a time when both Matthew and I were preparing a wedding party; and the father of the bride and his daughter to walk down the aisle.  As the doors closed after the maid of honor began making her way to the altar it was time to get the bride and her father in position to open the doors for the big moment.  As I was smoothing out the hem of the skirt I looked up and realized they were on the wrong side!  The father needed to be on stage right and the bride on stage left.  It was also at this time I realized I was caught right in the middle of their Father – Daughter moment…Oh My God how do I do this?  There was no other way and quickly I said, “You are on the wrong sides – switch!”  In the end before the doors opened we were all laughing – a stress reliever to say the least and all was good for them to ascend the aisle.

So in planning a wedding, couples always have questions about what are the correct etiquette rules for different aspects of the wedding ceremony and reception.  We have a saying, “As long as you know the rules you can change them with caution to navigate certain situations.”

Here are two frequently asked questions of “when and how do we do this” during the wedding.

 

Which side am I on?

The rule for what side the bride and her father stand on go WAY BACK in time where the reason the bride was on her father’s left arm was in case someone tried to steal the bride his right hand was free to grasp his sword to defend her.  Today, we still see the same time honored tradition but I actually like to do the reverse – and the part that allows me to change this is that, I don’t think today too many fathers are walking their daughter down the aisle carrying a sword.  The main reason to switch sides from the traditional American way is about easy transition for the father of the bride.  This allows him to step back after giving his daughter away and step into the pew or the row of chairs.  This helps with the long train and long veil as we have all seen the moment when the father of the bride steps on the bride’s train or veil and her head jerks back as she goes to move toward the groom for their vows.

When should we cut the cake?

The order of the reception is always a question and what to do with the cocktail hour, when to plan the cutting the cake along with the welcome speech and the blessing.  Usually the cake cutting is done in private with the photographer coming up to you saying – we need to cut the cake.  Wowa!  Let’s make this an experience for everyone to be a part of and enjoy!  There are a couple ways to do this.

  1. During the cocktail reception have the cake be the center of attention – after you, of course, as a couple. When it’s time to cut the cake make an announcement for everyone to gather around and take part in the cake cutting.  You can vocally gather their attention or you can use chimes, etc.  Once the cake is cut it can be removed from the area when your guests go into the reception area for the dinner.
  2. If you would like to have your cake cut during the reception/dinner timeframe here is what I recommend. When the wedding party is announced for their procession into the reception they should take their seats.  When you are introduced have the cake carried in on a silver tray by two chefs or wait staff.  Or you can have the cake displayed on a cloth covered table in the center of the room or dancefloor.  If the cake is being carried in the, chefs or wait staff should follow behind you.  When you arrive into the center of the room the welcome speech should be given and the cake cutting should follow with a champagne toast by the groom to the bride as their new life together begins. This can be followed by the introduction of the blessing and dinner can be served while the cake is removed from the room.

It just goes to show you that you can have your cake and eat it too!

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