White Poppy

White Poppy for Dreams

Topiaries

Add Drama and height to your reception with topiaries on some or all of the tables. The beautiful flowers are well above the eyeline of your guests and give a twist on traditional decor.

Sweethearts Table

I hate head tables because they separate the bridal party from their respective spouses or dates(and kids in some cases). The Sweethearts Table is increasing in popularity. The two of you, just the bride and groom, sit at your own table-for-two. You are easily visible to your guests. you can be toasted and can offer toasts, and everyone else gets to sit with their sweethearts, too. You can get up from your table and visit with your guests, or guests can come to your table without interrupting the rest of the wedding party. Your table can be situated near tables for each family and your wedding party.This way you can be alone with your new spouse, but still be in the center of the action.

Wedding Graffiti

Graffiti you can apply for the occasion as long as the venue lets you! So easy to install; even a nervous groom can do it! Easily removed. Hundreds of options that include monograms, focal points, favors, and even wedding cars; a great idea to personalize your wedding.

Countdown to the Big Day

12 months before:
Get your ring and set your date!
10 months before:
Hire a Wedding Planner/Coordinator.
Get an idea of the guest list.
Choose your bridesmaids and groomsmen.
Choose and reserve ceremony and reception locations.
9 months before:
Start shopping for invitations
Decide if and where to register.
Book a photographer.
Start thinking about your flowers.
Plan the music.
Choose an officiant.
Start thinking about your dress.
Make a website..if you are so inclined.
6 months before:
Start writing the ceremony
Decide on what your bridal party will be wearing
4 months before:
Compile the latest and greatest guest list complete with addresses.
Make honeymoon plans.
3 months before:
Find a hotel for out of town guests.
2 months before:
Address and mail invitations
Create your wedding program... if you are so inclined.
Arrange transportation of wedding party and guests
1 week before:
Get a massage or pedicure and remember to breathe.
The Big Day
Get Married!!

Going Green

Many couples are realizing that if we don't take care of our planet, who will? A wedding is full of opportunities to make ethical informed decisions as well as many opportunities for waste. If you're eco-conscious , consider using organic flowers in your bouquet, recycled paper in your invitations, local and organic foods at your reception, and even donate leftover food rather than throwing it out. A great idea for your wedding favor is to give each guest a tree seedling to be planted in your honor.

Sending Save-the-Date Cards

If social functions cram your family and friends calendars, a save-the-date card will remind them to reserve a place in their day planners for your wedding. These handy advance notices come in a number of formats, from a classic style that matches your invitations to a fun postcard, refrigerator magnets, and e-mails.The card design can also be as plain or clever as you wish--it all depends on your budget. No reply card is needed. If you know the wedding date four or more months ahead of time, save the date cards would be appropriate.

Limoncello Martini

This is the perfect cocktail for a Tuscan themed wedding or for a bride who chooses a shade of sunny yellow for her reception.

Ice

3 ounces vodka

1 ounce limoncello1

teaspoon simple syrup (see note)

Lemon twists

Fill a shaker with ice. Add vodka, limoncello and simple syrup. Shake well and strain into oversized martini glasses. Garnish each with a lemon twist.

Note: Simple syrup is made by combining 2 parts granulated sugar with 1 part water. Simmer, stirring, over low heat until sugar is dissolved. Chill before using.

Lilac

Lilac for First Emotions of Love

Cultural Cocktails

Internationally-themed menus are a big trend this year, but don’t forget to tie in your cocktails. If you’re planning a Cuban celebration, nothing beats a Mojito. The Bellini is a wonderful start to an Italian feast, or serve your guests a South of the Border inspired Mango Margarita.

Martini Bar

Make a big impression with a Specialty Martini Bar.

Martinis are in! Having a martini bar at your wedding will definitely set the mood and make your wedding stand out from the pack. If you haven’t noticed, martinis aren’t your standard gin, vermouth, and an olive any more. They come in a wide variety of flavors and colors. Your guests will definitely love it and will remember your wedding for years to come.

Gourmet Coffee Stations

Coffee Stations are the perfect way to warm up your reception with all your coffeehouse favorites: lattes, mochas, cappuccinos, espresso, Americanos, hot chocolate, chai tea lattes, and seasonally themed specialty drinks.

Star of Bethlehem

Star of Bethlehem for Reconciliation

Magnolia

Magnolia for Love of Nature

White Lily

White Lily for Purity

Gift Table Precaution

Arrange for someone to monitor your gift table at all times, unattended presents disappear all to often. If possible locate your gift table inside the reception room.

Toss Bouquets

Your florist can create a miniature version of your bridal bouquet in the same flowers. You can keep the bouquet you carried down the aisle to press or preserve. Have one of your bridesmaid's informed where it is stored and she can retrieve it for you.

Love lies bleeding

Love Lies Bleeding for Hopelessness

Dessert Bars

One of the newest and tastiest trends at receptions is the addition of Dessert Bars to compliment the wedding cake. You can save money on enormous, elaborately decorated cakes and instead have a smaller, elegant cake and a bounty of delicious desserts that your guest will crave and rave about.

Blue Roses

Blue Roses for Mystery or Attaining the Impossible

Hot Pink Roses

Hot Pink Roses for Desire and Passion

Chair Covers

Looking for an alternative to the same old boring white satin wedding chair covers? Here are a few stylish trends that will be seen at upcoming receptions in 2008.

Custom Cameras

Disposable cameras can be great fun! Many times the only picture you get of your guests is the "table photo". Disposable cameras allow you to capture fun candids of everyone. Ask your reception site manager or wedding consultant if he or she could place disposable cameras on the tables for you with a small sign inviting your guests to participate. At the end of the soiree, have a basket by the door with a sign saying "Put cameras here".Have someone develop the pictures for you while on your honeymoon. When you get home you will have a wonderful surprise of all the special moments from your reception.

Add Bling!

Crystals, rhinestones, and prisms are the hot new trend in reception decor.

Colleen's Cookies

The latest trend in Wedding Favors is personalized cookies presented in a beautiful wrapping. Show your love and appreciation for your guests with a sweet remembrance from Colleen's Cookies. You can find a link to her website under My Favorite Things.

Simple and Elegant Bouquets