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Category: Weddings

  • Get Down and Get Funky – How to Have the Best Morning With Your Bridesmaids 

    How to Have the Best Morning With Your Bridesmaids 

    The sun is up, the birds are chirping, and it is time to get the best day of your life started. The morning of your wedding is all about getting pampered. Getting ready is an extra party before the real one begins and will set the mood for the entire day. Here are some tips on How to Have the Best Morning With Your Bridesmaids. Let the fun begin! 

    Twinning

    You are never too old to match with your friends like you did at a slumber party when you were six. Whether it may be the classic satin robe and slippers, a comfortable sweatshirt, or cute flannels, what is more fun than matching? This does not have to be expensive either. Amazon has an excellent selection to choose from that will look amazing on all your besties. 

    Mimosa Bar

    Time to kick back and pop the champagne. The best way to get the day started is with some drinks and snacks. Let you and your friends relax with a mimosa while eating some fresh fruit and croissants. Who knows the next time you will be able to get your hands on food so you might as well fill up when you can. 

    Decorations

    A quick way to dress up the room is with some balloons, banners, glasses, and any other cute décor you can find. Look for fun personalized decorations on Etsy. It is your day; nothing is ever too much. 

    Music

    Throw on all your favorite songs to sing and dance to, there is no one there to judge. Remember to have someone to make a playlist to really get the day started. Besides, sometimes hair and makeup start at 7:00 AM so you want some pump-up music to stay awake.  

    Hair and Makeup

    Having a glam squad to do your hair and makeup is necessary on the day of your wedding. No need to add extra stress by putting all that on yourself. Take the day off and have a drink while everyone else does the work for you. I am sure your girls will enjoy the royal treatment as well. This is another great way on How to Have the Best Morning With Your Bridesmaids. Let the fun begin! 

    Photo Op

    Have your photographer join you in getting ready to capture your moments together with your girls. Document cheer to your new beginning with the mimosas or a dance party in your slippers and robes. Add a few disposable cameras to the room as well for some old-fashioned fun.  

    Extras

    A few extra items to remember to bring could help save the day and prevent any tears. Make sure to throw a sewing kit, cosmetic tape, and safety pins in your bag. Even some extra shoes, hair accessories, and jewelry just in case. Always be prepared, you never know where your luck may be.

  • Traditional Groom Responsibilities to Plan the Wedding

    Traditional Groom Responsibilities to Plan the Wedding

    In order to build a solid foundation for your marriage, treat your engagement as a practice round for lifelong partnership, and make everything involving your wedding a joint effort. Although the process will ultimately be a collaboration, there are certain traditional groom responsibilities to plan the Wedding.

    No matter what the grooms level of interest in wedding planning, the early stages are when he should be the most involved. The most important aspects of the wedding should be joint decisions that accommodate both of your needs and preferences regarding your family and friends. Some major things you’ll want to compromise on together are:

    Wedding budget

    How much do you have to spend, and where are the funds coming from?

    When it comes to who pays for what, the bride’s family has traditionally covered the wedding, while the groom’s family has covered the rehearsal dinner. However, anything goes in modern times. As couples marry later, they may opt to take on a bulk of the costs themselves, or they may receive contributions from their parents that can be spent however they choose: on the wedding or on a down payment on a house. Regardless of if you’re a bride or groom, it’s your job to handle communications regarding any contributions received from your side of the family.

    Your Guest List

    Who are your must-haves on both sides, and who makes second-tier? Knowing your starting number determines your venue, which determines so many other aspects of your wedding, so it’s crucial to start with a good figure in mind.

    Wedding Venue

    Your venue impacts so many other aspects of your wedding (your date, maximum guest count, catering, ambiance, etc.) so it’s crucial to pick the one you both like.

    Overall Vibe & Atmosphere

    Out in the country, or smack dab in the city? Casual and relaxed, or formal and fancy? Selecting a wedding style that reflects both of your personalities will ensure you’ll both be excited to plan it.

    From here, have an honest conversation about what details matter most to each of you. If you won’t be working with a wedding planner, divide and conquer the responsibilities. Tradition typically has the groom take point on the bar and the music, but they are by no means confined to those categories. More spiritual than your significant other? Take charge of finding your officiant. Really into food? Offer to schedule tastings with caterers. When it comes to aspects of the wedding you don’t care about as much, let your groom’s opinion take precedence, especially if it’s something important to them. The same is true if the groom is taking the lead on wedding planning overall. Go to the appointments, do a lot of listening, and give your feedback and support when necessary.

    Choosing & Coordinating the Groomsman

    There are certain traditional groom responsibilities to plan the Wedding and to work with his groomsmen. The first step is selecting them. Pick people you’re still in close contact with. If you haven’t seen each other in a while, there’s no rule they have to be in your wedding just because you were in theirs. Your final group should also include people you’ll be close with in the future, like your spouse’s siblings for example. No matter who you ask, you’ll want to do the asking thoughtfully. Politely let them know this is a big commitment and there are costs involved. Asking six to eight months before your wedding is a good time frame at a dinner with drinks and small personal token gift.

  • Ways to Ensure Your Wedding Guests Have an Awesome Time

    Ways to Ensure Your Wedding Guests Have an Awesome Time

    A stunning venue and gorgeous centerpieces are some of the first things that come to mind when thinking of a beautiful wedding. But the picture-perfect décor doesn’t ensure an epic party on its own. Try the following simple but effective tips on ways to ensure your wedding guests have an awesome time. These tips will have your guests raving about your wedding for many years to come.

    Don’t Let Your Friends and Family Speeches Take Forever

    Many fun events have been detailed by long boring speeches. To keep the party popping, ask your speech givers to keep their toasts short and sweet.

    Hire a Great Band or DJ

    After all, music can, in fact, make or break a party.  Look for a high energy performer that will follow your lead on what music your family and friends like. Be careful not to choose an over the top annoying personality to be your MC. A great mix of music for your family as well as your friends discussed ahead of time with your entertainer will have everyone up on their feet until it’s time to go home. Seamless song transitions and the ability to read the crowd is where  top a notch entertainment company comes into play.

    Ask for Song Requests

    Asking your guests to request a song via the invitation response will ensure everyone will have a great time and dance the night away. Give this list of songs to your DJ. That way, if the dance floor thins out, the DJ can play songs off of the request list. This pretty much ensures that the person who requested the song will get up and dance and encourage others to do so as well.

    Remember to Thank Your Guests

    It’s important to break the ice and talk to your guests to let them know how much you personally appreciate them coming to share in and enjoy this fun celebration. Make it simple and short. Encourage them to have a great time and that you expect to see them on the dance floor on this joyous celebration.

    Keep Guests in the Loop with Your Wedding Day Timeline

    Usually the best weddings are the ones that are organized and follow a timeline. When the events of the day unfold in a timely and organized manner, your day will have a smooth easy flow. The bridal party and guests are not just left standing around wondering what’s next. They will know where they should go or what they should be doing.

    Throw in an Element of Surprise

    Surprise your guests with something special or unexpected at your wedding. You could secretly organize a “Flash Mob” of select family and friends sitting all around the ballroom. They can suddenly assemble on the dance floor and bust out into an organized dance. Or the bride and groom could perform a secretly practiced & choreographed dance routine for their first dance. That will really start off your reception with a ‘wow’ factor. This will have everyone recording, sharing on social media, and talking about it all night.

    Opt for a Short Ceremony

    If possible, try to keep your ceremony simple and short in length. A long, drawn-out ceremony takes away your guest energy level from the onset. Sometimes it is hard to be recovered for the reception.

    Provide Transportation

    If you’re hosting a destination wedding or your wedding is in a remote location, provide transportation for your guests from their hotel to your wedding and back. This way people don’t have to worry about driving home intoxicated, which guarantees that they can party a little harder.

    Allow Your Guests Plenty of Free Time

    This is particularly important if you have a destination wedding or a bunch of guests in from out of town. Many of your guests probably haven’t seen each other in a while.  Give them a chance to catch up before the real party gets going. Back to back activities after a long trip will run them into the ground and have them lacking energy for your reception. Let them have some time and space to explore your venue and they’ll be refreshed and excited at all of your reception events.

  • Small Wedding Ideas for an Intimate Affair

    Small Wedding Ideas for an Intimate Affair

    Have a smaller percentage of your guest list, but keep the whole the celebration. Have you been overwhelmed by the thought of gathering 200 plus of your “closest” family & friends together for your wedding day? You can have a reception with just your closest family & friends. But still with all of the things that will make your wedding feel like your personalizes wedding. Incorporate specific preferred options like entertainment, invitations, dinner, white dress, cake, and any other detail important to both of you. Shrinking it down to a cozy, intimate size guarantees you’ll love where your money goes and have tons of memories with “every” single guest. With an intimate wedding there are planning changes to make, details to consider, and a larger budget to work with now with less invited guests. Here are a few small Wedding ideas for an intimate affair.

    Keep the Guest List Short

    A small wedding is only small if the guest list is as small as possible. Not sure how to cut it down? One handy suggested tip is to look through your text messages and calls, and only invite those you’ve spoken with in the last three months. We speak more often to those who matter most. Another suggestion is would you take this person out for an expensive intimate dinner? Or would you have this person and their guest into your home for an intimate dinner or as a weekend house guest? Thinking about how close your relationships are will help ensure you are truly comfortable with those you surround yourselves with on your intimate wedding day. Of course, other people will want to know you’ve tied the knot. Make a list of those who will want to know the big news, and send out a wedding announcement after the fact.

    Alternative Venues Choices

    Fewer people on the guest list means you open up your choices to a multitude of different venues when choosing a nontraditional venue. Restaurants are at the top of the list. They’re unique spaces that have everything you need in one place. Just make sure you love everything (the style, the menu, and the existing décor) as being able to change it is less likely. Also recommended are hotel suites, many of which have beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces as well as galleries, gardens, wine bars, and nightclubs. You can have it in an intimate affair in a place that is meaningful to the couple. Family homes can pose many challenges for events with a large guest list, but work well with a smaller group.

    Rethink Traditional Options

    If you’re still in love with the idea of a space that’s more of an expected wedding venue like a hotel ballroom, museum room, or a dining room at a country club rethink it.

    The challenge with a traditional venue is making sure it feels full with an intimate amount of guests and not like a lot of guests didn’t show. Design comes into place here in making a large space feel intimate as you have the opportunity to get really creative with seating and table layouts, as well as adding things like a lounge or creative bars and food stations. Consider an extra-large round table for 20 to fill more space, or mix up how the venue is usually used by having the ceremony where others might have dinner and vice versa. With a smaller group, you can think outside the box about where you host each part of the celebration. Also, when you’re looking at venues, keep the size of your celebration in mind. Privacy is of the utmost importance, especially with a small guest list. Before you book anything, make sure the venue won’t have another wedding at the same time as yours. You really want to feel like you have the place to yourselves.

    Traditional venues are full of unexpected spaces that are perfect for smaller celebrations. Consider areas that are often overlooked, like the library of a large historic estate for example.

    Know What You Need

    Every wedding, no matter the size, will need entertainment, food, a bar, staff, rentals, and some décor. Keep those options in mind as you’re making plans.

    Even tho it’s more intimate, it’s a great idea to hire a wedding planner. Even if it’s only for a day of coordinator since you have more of a budget to work with. To have someone there to facilitate the flow of the day. You can enjoy it instead of worrying about whether alcohol or food is running low. Top priority service for any wedding is important but with an intimate celebration, the service should be over-the-top excellent.

    Skip What Isn’t Important

    As you’re determining the details, decide what is important to you and your partner and skip the things that don’t matter. Many couples choose to skip some of the traditional dancing and other formalities at a small wedding. Know your crowd and replace it with an activity everyone will enjoy. Or keep it in the timeline if your loved ones love to dance. Of course, if you do love dancing, keep the DJ set up or band’s size in mind so not to overwhelm your intimate wedding space. Be sure to hire a simple DJ/MC team or smaller group of musicians. That way you can have the formality of special dances and other formalities without it being over the top.

    You can easily skip some of the typical add-ons that couples try to get into their budgets.  For example, there’s no need for a photo booth, printed ceremony programs, or wedding favors. You will be spending much more one-on-one time with each guest, so some of those extras aren’t worth the cost.

    Splurge Wisely

    Your budget will go further with fewer guests, so use those extra funds to really enhance the evening. You can hire live musicians like violinists for your ceremony and a jazz trio to play for cocktails. A top notch photographer is also a great investment. With fewer people at your tables your guests will really relax. That will create an intimate atmosphere. Hire a trusted photographer who will capture the laughter, the tears, and the clinking glasses, etc. since those are the moments you’ll treasure most. You can also upgrade the dinner menu. Make it an indulgent seven-course meal, complete with a choice of fine wines and spirits. Valley says. With an intimate group, you can really personalize every detail of your menu.

  • Ways to Honor Your Dad at Your Wedding

    Ways to Honor Your Dad at Your Wedding

    Your wedding day is a great opportunity to give recognition to those who gave you unconditional love and support along your journey, from your first steps as a toddler to your ceremony. On the day you say “I do,” consider these ways to honor your dad at your Wedding. These tips from our friends at  brides.com will create special moments for your father, stepfather or father figure. Aside from having them walk you down the aisle. You wouldn’t be who you are today without them.

    A Special Dance

    Most weddings have the traditional father-daughter dance but you can take it a step further. If dad is not much of a dancer you can possibly spend some quality time together by attending dance lessons prior to the special dance. Either to learn to dance a little better or maybe even surprise everyone with a choreographed routine. Or you can surprise him with a sentimental song you both have a connection to.

    A Daddy-Daughter First Look

    First looks with your soon-to-be spouses have become a popular way to share a special moment together privately prior to walking down the aisle. So why not consider having a separate first look with your dad? He’ll probably be nervous pacing the halls waiting to see his little girl all dolled up for her big day anyway. By setting aside a few minutes for a pre ceremony moment with him you’ll not only create a memory that will last a lifetime, but it’s also a great photo op!

    An Unexpected Shout-Out

    Many times fathers of the bride will read a speech at the rehearsal dinner or a welcome speech at the wedding itself sharing memories and words of wisdom to his little girl. You can change it up a bit by instead giving him a special shout-out. You and your fiancé may want to take a moment to thank all of your parents, or anyone who made your special day possible and memorable just a minute or two of time to verbalize your love and appreciation could mean the world to him and the other parents.

    A Photo Surprise

    This may take just a little bit of planning, but it’s a fun and creative way to make dad feel special after the wedding. Coordinating with your photographer, create a sign or prop that says something sentimental like “I’ll always be your little girl”, “I loved you first”, or even something short like ”Thanks, Dad!” You can possibly pose  with your dad and while he is not looking you can hold the sign up. Like this when your photos come in he is given the sweetest surprise picture he will cherish forever.

    Ask Dad to Officiate

    What an honor to be asked to officiate your daughters wedding. It may take some preparation to become qualified but you can get ordained in a few minutes online. He would probably consider it the ultimate compliment to be asked to be the person who makes your marriage real. Dad will have the opportunity to share loving words and special moments with your guests while making your union official. You can work with dad to create the a special & personal ceremony. You will give him the honor to be a very special part of your wedding day.

    Something Borrowed from Dad

    Typically brides will borrow an item from their mom or a past bride to count as their something borrowed. But what father wouldn’t feel special if, you asked him to help out. Maybe you’d like to borrow one of dad’s handkerchiefs, or sew a cut-out heart from one of his old dress shirts into the lining of your dress. Or you can add a borrowed cufflink into the wrapped stem of your bridal bouquet. Think outside of the box, and there’s plenty of cute ways to incorporate your dad into the tradition.

  • How to Host Your Wedding at Your Home

    How to Host Your Wedding at Your Home

    There are many ideas on how to host your wedding at your home. A sense of familiarity, undeniable charm, and personal sentiments make for a day that’s original. Invite your guests into a space that holds some of your most cherished memories as a child, an adult, or both. Nothing says love like a wedding with a home sweet home welcome mat. Since residences are rarely suited for events and large gatherings, private homes need considerable attention when it comes to finalizing logistics like lighting, parking, and additional rentals.

    Depending on the size of your home and your guest list it’s important to consider factors like catering, landscape design, ceremony setup, and décor. For larger homes built with a significant number of hosting rooms, the need for an outdoor tent might not be as necessary. But for a more intimate setting, the use of a backyard tent might be a good idea for added space. The balance between wanting to highlight the unique features of your home and adapting the space to your unique personal preferences is important. That is something that needs to be planned out with all you vendors. Here are some tips from brides.com for hosting your own successful private wedding at home.

    Reserve Dressing Rooms

    Eliminate the need for transportation. Organize all of your wedding prep as well as your wedding party’s within rooms of your home. Just like any other location, it is so important that the getting ready area has ample lighting (natural is always best). With a good space for the hair and makeup team to set up, mirrors, and access to outlets.

    Utilize the Entire Property

    Make sure to embrace all indoor and outdoor space and elements of your home. Create a flow throughout your home by hosting different events in a variety of different areas. A ceremony in the garden followed by cocktails poolside is a great way to keep the flow of movement. Then transition guests to a tented space or inside your home into large room or rooms for dinner.

    Have a Weather Plan

    Be flexible and ready for a plan B in case of rain or inclement weather. Depending on the formality of your reception, choose a tent or tents that are as casual or refined as your day-of style and décor.

    Get Creative With the Uniqueness of Your Surroundings

    Embracing the uniqueness of your home’s surroundings is a great way to make sure your wedding day vision is unique & comes to life. Envision a ceremony backdrop in the back or front yard.  Next to a custom groomed tree or vine filled wall or fence or possibly a side wall of your home made of brick with a fireplace, to name a few ideas.

    Have a Strategy for the Catering

    Continuing these tips on how to host your wedding at your home includes catering. Caterers will stress the importance of bringing in the right equipment. This will put on a top notch celebration in such an intimate setting.  From their perspective, working in someone’s home requires a few extra steps. Checking for a water source, power source, and other lighting needs. It also means bringing in all of the required equipment for cooking and serving your guests high quality, fresh, and delicious cuisine.

    Don’t Skimp on Entertainment Space

    You want your guests to have a great time! So keep in mind the importance of a dance floor area when allocating space in your home for your reception. Setting up a dance floor in a spacious outdoor tent is a great consideration. This will ensure there’s plenty of space for dancing as well as your DJ or bad entertainment and their equipment. This area can also be a focal point for all your guests to witness your formalities.  These include your introduction, first dance, toast, cake cutting, etc.

    Adapt the Space to Your Needs

    Make it easy for your guests, and yourself, by adapting your space to fit all of your event’s hosting needs. Bring in power generators, restroom trailers, additional lounge seating, additional tenting, tables & chairs etc. The last thing you want to worry about is adding additional stress on your home. That includes not being able to properly accommodate all your guests with seating, restrooms, and coverage for inclement weather.

    Emphasize the Intimacy of Your at Home Wedding

    A perk of having a wedding in your own home is the intimacy that comes with it. Your entertainment should most definitely highlight the intimacy and coordinate all other elements throughout your event to keep guests informed & engaged on formalities & special moments. From the table layout of your reception to the personalization of your rehearsal dinner menu, each event is an opportunity to reflect the familiarity of your home venue choice.

    Surprise your Guests a Grand Exit

    Ending the night with a spectacular send-off. This is one of the best ways to cap-off your celebration. Just because you found a way on how to host your wedding at your home doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice this special moment. Keep in mind to leave space open either in the front, or the back of your home with no parked cars, etc to guarantee a seamless & special send-off experience.

     

     

  • Unexpected Relationship Benefits of Social Distancing

    Unexpected Relationship Benefits of Social Distancing

    The coronavirus pandemic has all of us maintaining social distances, which has lead to spending the majority of our time stuck at home with maybe a walk outside or a trip to the grocery store. For couples living or isolating together, this means weeks of one-on-one time. It might seem like a stressful situation since couples can usually take time away from the each other. Usually to go out with friends or have some true alone time. Therapists say that there’s some positives in this situation for couples. Couples seem to be speaking more, sharing feelings and discussing the pandemic versus not talking about it. If you’re cooped up with your partner during this surreal time, in a house in the suburb or a studio apartment in the middle of a city, here are some unexpected relationship benefits of social distancing.

    You rely on each other more than ever

    Right now, you’re depending on your partner more than ever in your entire relationship. With little outside socialization, let alone communication, and an inability to get some separation when tensions rise, your partner is the one you’re going to turn to for emotional support.  Looking to one another to fulfill needs typically filled by a variety of people boosts a couple’s emotional bond and builds trust.

    During these times  brides.com says it’s important to remember that we all deal with stress differently. Watching the news might give some people some sense of relief because you know what’s going on with the current situation, but this may work in the opposite way & be stressful  for your partner. Acknowledge your differences and find ways of compromising so that you’re both actively working to meet each other’s emotional needs right now.

    You’re more likely to be honest with each other

    When you’re together 24/7, you may not be able to hide from parts of your relationship that are strained. Or that don’t work any longer. Some of that may be positive and some of it may be a little painful. In close quarters and with little time away from each other, quirks and challenging personality traits can surface. Talk to each other in terms of needs and wants instead of blame. Instead of going on the offensive, look for solutions rather than focusing on what isn’t working.

    It increases your level of appreciation for your partner

    When you’re forced to live in a type of survival mode, you’re less likely to focus on the little ways your partner might get on your nerves. Instead, it encourages you to look at the things you really love about them. You may see your partner doing things they normally don’t have time to do and you may feel a deeper appreciation for their strengths and the positives he/she brings to your life. This deepening of appreciation for your partner may be beautiful result of shelter-in-place.

    What makes you a united team

    Couples are forced to work together to accomplish what they need on a day-to-day basis under isolation. Whether its buying groceries, seeking out fun things to do to entertain themselves, or doing some spring cleaning. Couples are getting to do some housework that hasn’t been done because of lack of time. Things like organizing closets or garages, painting rooms or gardening. Additionally, couples with kids are having to work together to manage their professional workloads. At the same time creating schedules for their kids and dividing the care of the kids. This is another unexpected relationship benefits of social distancing. It has created a new sense of teamwork and relief from stress because you have someone else to lean on.

    You have more time and energy to re-engage sexually

    Typically in times of stress, many couples are less intimate physically than they would be in normal circumstances. When couples are stuck in their home together with little distraction and without access to the outside world, the timing will just feel right. This may also be the time to try new things. If you’ve always wanted to try a new position or technique and you have the house to yourself, experiment at different times. It’s also important to give each other space to seek self-pleasure without shame or embarrassment. Find ways to use this spark to a sexual desire between the both of you.

    It encourages you to take your partnership to the next level

    If you had been dating for a while before being isolated and were on the fence about whether to move in together or pop the question, spending this much time together in an atmosphere of reliance might make you decide to take the next step. It may allow you to see your partner in a different light. One that was hard to imagine before you found yourselves in these circumstances.

  • Romantic couple holding hands together over candlelight

    Tips for Keeping Your Relationship Happy

    Whether you’re newly married or have been together a long time, at some point there’s a worry that’s probably crossed your mind: divorce. Even if you don’t have any urge to get divorced yourself, it’s hard to ignore the discussion & statistics all around us through media or friendships. But just because divorce is common doesn’t mean it has to happen to you. One of the best things that you can do is look back and learn from relationships that have gone wrong, so you can stop yourself from making the same mistakes. There’s not just one solution to making a marriage or relationship work. Complacency, a lack of respect, and being too self-involved are other factors. Taking the time to connect with your partner, thinking about their point of view, and remembering why you love each other can make all the difference.

    Communicate

    Communication is one of the most important tips for keeping your relationship happy and healthy. Talking ensures both parties have a very clear mutual understanding of what they want out of their partner and out of life, whether it be in regard to career, finances, religion, children, etc.  It has to be more than just talking. It needs to be about actively listening to understand where the other person is really coming from. Listening is at the heart of a close relationships with others. Instead of just thinking of your own response, put aside your own judgments, opinions, thoughts, and expectations and just listen. You should make an effort to see things from each other’s point of view.

    Prioritize Quality Time

    It’s easy to get complacent in relationships, but it’s important that you make the time to really connect face to face with no distractions. A date night, once per week, without your cell phones in hand was a key compromise. By spending quality time with each other, without any distractions, you are able to get to know each other again, enjoy each other’s company, and remain happy in your relationship.

    Don’t underestimate the value of quality, distraction-free communication to really connect. Here are some more tips for keeping your relationship happy

    Take Responsibility

    Lots of relationships fall apart because one person sees themselves as the “good” partner who never messes up or does anything wrong, while blaming everything else on the other person. But everyone makes mistakes. It is crucial that both partners acknowledge how their actions affect one another. Failing to accept the blame and responsibly means it is always your partner’s fault. If that is true, then you are sending the message that your partner is subordinate to you. This will cause resentment because your partner will feel that they are constantly being judged. By owning up to your own mistakes, you’ll keep the relationship on a solid foundation.

    Be Realistic

    Sometimes, marriages or relationships go wrong because there are unrealistic expectations from the beginning. This is likely because couples focus so adamantly, for example, on the idea of marriage and planning their wedding. Couples don’t take the time to make sure they are marrying someone they are compatible with. You should be honest with your feelings about the person you’re with and set realistic expectations.

    Compromise

    For a relationship to work—and for a marriage to survive—you have to be willing to meet in the middle. “Marriage will be the hardest thing you will do (aside from becoming a parent),” Sodoma says. “Compromise and putting someone else’s interests ahead of yours on a regular basis is not necessarily easy or natural behavior. And, saying sorry is meaningless unless you know why you are apologizing and will use your best efforts not to rinse and repeat.”

    Be Honest

    Make a commitment to be honest with each other. Our friends at brides.com say, honesty is fundamental to a relationship. Without it, there is no trust. And without trust, the relationship falls apart. Honesty isn’t just about not lying, it’s also about being candid and open about how you’re feeling and not withholding information.  Be as open as you can to avoid resentments.

    Stay Flirty and Playful

    One thing that can create distance in a relationship is taking each other for granted. This is one of those tips for keeping your relationship happy that can be fun. If you stop romancing and flirting with each other the spark will fade. During the beginning stages of a relationship it is all about planning fun dates and romantic weekend getaways. But then that can easily fade with additional responsibilities, work, children, etc. It’s crucial to keep the spark alive. Whether it is a nice dinner out of the house or a weekend getaway, couples need to experience a change of scenery to engage in one on one conversations. It reminds them why they decided to spend their life or time with this person. Tried to be spontaneous with playful plan to keep the spark in the relationship.

  • Maid of Honor Responsibilities to Help the Bride

    Maid of Honor Responsibilities to Help the Bride

    Maid of honor responsibilities to help the bride aren’t quite what they used to be. Your choice will need to be on her toes in a very different way. The maid of honor is in charge of the bachelorette party and bridal shower. She also leads the rest of the bridesmaids throughout the planning process and on the day-of. A bride will traditionally appoint a sister, female relative, or best friend as the maid of honor. It is a privilege reserved for the closest person to her. Here are some of her roles.

    Ensure Bride enjoys Events leading up to Wedding

    Brides have a lot to do while at their wedding. While your maid of honor should be your go-to source for an extra set of hands, it’s more important she ensures you enjoy every moment of your engagement leading up to the wedding. From getting mani-pedis to a full-blown girls’ night out, your MOH is first and foremost your best friend. That’s the role she should take most seriously during the planning process.

    Shopping Consultant

    Brides usually make an event of wedding dress shopping so your maid of honor should be at the top of your guest list to help you. She should be from fitting room to fitting room, as you try on way more wedding dresses than you ever intended. She should be willing to give her honest opinions and constructive criticism.

    Point Person

    Brides usually don’t have time for wedding guests bugging them about such details as what time the ceremony starts and where you’re registered. Brides.com suggests give all the information to your maid of honor, so she can be your guests’ point person. When questions arise she can take pressure off you and point them in the right direction.

    Bridesmaid Wrangler

    Your maid of honor is also your bridesmaids’ go-to. She can try to keep the peace between any conflicting personalities in the group because the last thing you need is to be mediating fights between them. You need someone to delegate & assign tasks concerning any pre-wedding events. She will be available to answer any questions the bridesmaids may have about where and when they should be on the wedding day.

    Party Planner for Pre Wedding events

    Maids of honor lead the way when it comes to planning the bridal shower and bachelorette party. From reaching out to family members and bridesmaids to help with the details of planning to keeping everyone’s budgets in mind, maids of honor become expert party planners during the wedding process.

    Your Record Keeper

    If you’re opening gifts at your bridal shower, your maid of honor should keep track of who gave you what. This is another one of those maid of honor responsibilities to help the bride that will give you an easier time writing those thank-you notes later.

    Timeline Tracker Helper

    While you might have a planner or coordinator who will take the helm when it comes to your wedding day timeline, it’s worth sharing with your maid of honor as well. She’ll be able to watch the time in the bridal suite, making sure hair and makeup appointments are moving along, and let you know when it’s almost time to get in your dress.

    Another Maid of Honor Responsibilities to Help the Bride, Food Provider

    A hungry bride can get cranky and uptight, especially when the reception is many hours away. Your MOH should check in periodically to see if you or the rest of bridal need something to snack on while the bridesmaids are getting ready or before the bride leaves the bridal suite for your ceremony or reception. You may be too excited to think about food so if she can provide a quick healthy light snack it will help you fend off hunger pains for you and the bridal party.

    Social Media Point Person

    You should spend the morning of your wedding relaxing and staying as unplugged as possible, but that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be documented. Give your maid of honor your phone so she can get behind-the-scenes shots of the champagne toasts, happy tears, and the moment you slip on your dress. Let her know if you want these moments to be private or if you’re all about Instagram, you could also ask your MOH to post to your accounts throughout the day. Don’t forget to give her your hashtag.

    Bathroom Companion

    This isn’t the most glamorous task, but you’ll appreciate it: a little help from your MOH getting the dress, heels, and hair into the ladies room for a final go before the ceremony begins. It’s a moment full of laughter and some tricky maneuvers, which no one will forget. It gives new meaning to BFF.

    Toast Maker

    Some brides opt to have only family members give speeches at their receptions. Others forgo speeches entirely. But your maid of honor should always be game to deliver a speech—and not embarrass you during it.

    Dance Partner

    You’ve made it to the reception, when hopefully all the planning stress has melted away and you’re finally married. Celebrate on the ballroom floor and grab your MOH for plenty of boogying to your favorite jams. As much as you’ll want to get down with your new spouse, don’t forget your main dance floor partner through the years. Selfies are welcome.
  • Ways to De-Stress on Your Wedding Day

    Ways to De-Stress on Your Wedding Day

    The morning of your wedding day is supposed to be a time of excitement & jubilation. But with cameras in your face, bridesmaids running in and out of your bedroom or hotel suite, and a future  mother-in-law criticizing your hair and makeup choices, the entire day can start off feeling more like a stressful occasion. Don’t let yourself become overwhelmed and consider trying one of the Ways to De-Stress on Your Wedding Day.

    Just Let It Out

    Sometimes just finding somewhere quiet to sit like on the floor, a pillow, or on a chair and just take a few deep breaths through your nose and then let out a few big sighs. As you exhale, open your mouth and sigh your breath out, relaxing your mouth and your jaw as you do so. So so a few times and each time let the sighs be a little louder.

    Eat Breakfast, Even If You’re Not Hungry

    It’s a long day, so you might have too many butterflies in your stomach to even consider eating breakfast. It’s essential to have something healthy in your body to prepare you for your big day ahead. Food really does impact your behavior and emotions. Even a simple snack will help to put you into a more positive, stress-free state with extra energy to get you through the day.

    Turn to Aromatherapy

    When you add essential oils to slow and deep breathing, it helps stress just melts away. You can do this while you get your hair or makeup done. Pick one of your favorite essential oil scents such as lavender, Roman chamomile, orange, or rose for maximum stress relief. You can choose a calming roll-on oil blend and apply it to the palms of your hands. Rub them together to warm, cup your hands over your nose and mouth, and take a deep breath. Hold your breath for a count of three, then release slowly. You can also use a dropper bottle in the shower. Just drop a few drops of, for example,  lavender on the shower floor. Turn on very hot water for a few seconds and adjust to the appropriate temperature. This turn into an aromatherapeutic session. Do this before you go into hair and makeup and you’ll feel relaxed and ready for your big day.

    Do Stretching Exercises

    Stretching before getting ready will do wonders for your stress levels. Slow down and take some time for yourself is exactly what you need before you start your big day. A nice relaxed stretching session will increase blood circulation and allow your muscles to relax and get endorphin filled blood to your brain. This will elevate your mood. You’re also likely to breathe deeper while stretching, which will lower your heart rate, stabilize your blood pressure, and lessen any anxiety you may feel! Even a quick 10-minute stretch will help you be more present and enjoy the magical day you’ve planned.

    Massage Your Face

    Stress can have a visible reaction on your face. When you’re stressed out, the sympathetic nervous system increases the heart rate, changes the salt balance in the body, and even affects your posture. Our friends at bride.com say, shoulders rotate forward, which tightens your upper chest muscle, and decreases circulation and the flow of lymph drainage to your face. This can make your face look puffy. Since you don’t want to walk down the aisle with a puffy face, try a few at-home face massages. It will instantly reduce swelling. Though this can be done with your normal skincare products. Place your palm in the middle of your eyebrows and apply pressure. Hold for five seconds, then release pressure in an upward motion up to the hairline. Repeat this motion two more times, once in the middle of the forehead and once at the hairline. Then do the same at your temples. Use both palms to apply pressure on both temples for five seconds, and repeat two to three times. To help contour your cheeks and reduce swelling use your thumb, find the pressure point located right under the highest point of the middle of your cheek. With both thumbs, apply even pressure upward and into the cheekbone then hold for a few seconds. Lastly, place your hands under your ears and gently glide down to your neck to further drain the lymphs and release tightness and stress. Also consider a simple 30 minute full body message by a professional masseuse to start your day relaxed & stress relieved.

    Release Good Vibes from the Get Go

    One of the best ways to relax on the morning of your wedding and ensure you’ll have a good day is to simply manifest it. Start off by setting some intentions and expressing gratitude for the wonderful day ahead to create positive vibes. The entire day will be a whirlwind so possibly get your hands on a crystal and keep it on you the day of your wedding. Find crystals that give a calming effect and is known for helping relax the mind. You can even tuck it into your bra.  Crystals like amethyst, lithium quartz, and lepidolite all have a good reputation for reducing anxiety, calming frayed nerves, and releasing tension.