{Photobooths and Props}

Photobooths seems to be popping up at receptions more and more frequently... at least that's what I'm seeing from the albums my friends are uploading to Facebook. 

At any rate, those suckers can cost a pretty penny, and as such, brides have sought less expensive (and more creative) alternatives.  Brides have also started incorporating props at the reception to punch up the experience. 

Mustache rides? 

Image courtesy of Flickr

Image courtesy of ManoloBrides

Image courtsey of Wedding Chicks

Image courtesy of Land Locked Bride, using Smitten Sticks

Word Bubbles, Image courtsey of Hello Lucky

Image courtesy of The Design Grove

IKEA Engagement Sessions

We all know (from this post) I have a small obsession with IKEA.  So imagine my utter jubiliation when I stumbled across these engagement sessions @ IKEA!

UGH! A.M.A.Z.I.N.G!!!!!

Check out some of the teasers...

Sarah Maren Photography

Cinematic by David M

And even though I couldn't swipe another great picture, here the link from an IKEA shoot from Thomas Ward Photography

A Peep Toe of Color

Over the last few years, brides have gotten away from the traditional pointy-toe, white slingback.  What have they replaced it with you may ask? A pop of color and loads of personality!

Brides are taking advantage of underutilized creative real estate and adding pops of colors to the pumps and peep toes of their choosing.

Take a look!

Row 1: Corry Parris Photography, Sedona Bride; Row 2: AMB Photo Company, Kelly O'Shiro Events

Want a Jaw-Dropping Ceremony Idea?

Recently I've been swooning over the idea of wedding ceremonies held under large, aged trees.  There is something about them that screams enchanting and whimsical.

Row 1: Bustle, Polka Dot Bride, JanyandDave, Project: 10K Wedding; Row 2: Native Escapes, Bridal Inquirer, Sakura Photography

I think the other reason I'm totally in love with the idea of "meeting me down at the old oak tree" is because of its symbolism.  These trees have stood the test of time.  Weathered the storms.  And despite it all, it's still standing, reaching toward the heavens, and it's roots, firmly planted in the ground.

Who wouldn't want the foundation of a marriage based on those things?

For Maria

I love yellow. It's so fresh. Revitalizing.

Dress- Sorelle Bridal Store, Earrings/Bracelet- Anthropologie, Shoes- Kaboodle, Suit- J.Crew, Reception shot- Chelsea Elizabeth Photography, Lemon Meringue Cupcakes- Rachel Rae Magazine

Purple Inspiration Board

Selecting the color of your wedding is probably one of the more important decisions you make when planning your wedding.  Ultimately, it determines the entire feel of your day.  Modern- black and white, clean lines; Natural- pastels, wheat, natural wood... I could go on for days.  And until you fully commit to, let's say, a bridesmaid's dress, the possibilities are endless. 

Here's one I threw together for a friend of mine.  The wedding will be next June, and she's going for an elegant look.  Because it's still early summer, I'm hoping to keep things light and airy by staying in hues of purple, lavender, and amethyst, and also, by putting the groom in a grey suit, rather than a black tux.  This eliminates, or at the very least minimizes, the complete formality of the wedding.  Having a groom stand up in a monkey suit in the middle of summer, outside, is no way to make him, or the rest of your bridal party comfortable.  And I'm not saying a wedding shouldn't be a serious or formal occasion, but think there's more to a wedding than bowties and cumberbunds. 

Bridal gown: Maggie Sottero, BM dress: Dessy, Tux: Men's Warhouse, Cake: The Knot

The Budget

Monica: (To Chandler) How great are you, you little saver?! I mean, the-the amount you have is exactly the budget of my dream wedding!
Rachel: (starting to cry) Ohh, you guys are so made for each other.
Chandler: Well, you’re not suggesting that we spend all of the money on the wedding?
Rachel and Monica: Ah, yeah!
Script courtesy of FriendsCafe

Determining how much to spend on, lets face it, a party, can be pretty daunting, and often the souce of much frustration during the planning.  Is $100 a head too much? Yes.  Do I really need programs? No.  Will my guests care if I don't provide them a favor? No. 

Sticking to preset guidelines (and percetages) is a great way to make sure you stay on budget.  That being said, I've always maintained that a couple should have one big splurge.  Something that regardless of price, within reason of course, they want to have.  Whether it be a premier photographer, a dress, a photobooth, food, it's one thing that they weren't willing to compromise on. 

Now, if splurging happens to be your middle name, I suggest you think about changing it.  Brides often talk about having champagne tastes for a beer budget.  Or that their eyes are larger than their stomach.  It's important to keep this in check while you're planning.

Here's a general breakdown:
Reception: 48%-50% (this includes rental fees, food, and booze)
Ceremony: 2%-3% (this includes rental fees, officient, and donation)
Attire: 8%-10% (your dress, hair and make-up, and his tux)
Flowers: 8%-10%
Entertainment/Music: 8%-10%
Photography/Videography: 10%-12%
Stationery: 2%-3% (this includes postage too!)
Wedding Rings: 2%-3%
Parking/Transportation: 2%-3%
Gifts: 2%-3%
Miscellaneous: 8% (this includes favors, tips, etc)

Image courtesy of Bridesmaid.com