Affordable Utah Weddings

If you want to save money on a photographer, chances are you are going to need to find someone with less experience to take your pictures. This may require a little more effort of your part to be attentive to all the details that make an interesting picture.  It is not just the responsibility of your photographer to ensure that your engagement or wedding photos turn out the way you want. Especially if you going with someone who has minimal experience and a low pricetag.

Educate yourself about some basic photography techniques and show examples of what you like to your photographer. Your photographer should know these basics but you should keep them in mind when you explain what you want and when you choose locations. Here are some examples of composition:

1. Fill the Frame: Get in close.

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2. Rule of Thirds: Imagine photo divided into 9 equal parts. Place subject/points of interest along these imaginary lines.

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3. Leading Lines: Use lines to lead the viewer to your subject

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4. Contrast: Use contrast to make your subject stand out

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5. Rhythm: Repetition of the subject

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6. Framing: Consider natural frames to add depth to the photo and emphasis on your subject

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7. Perspective: Experiment with different points of view

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Make sure you talk to your photographer about the type of photos you like best. Do you prefer candid shots over posed shots? Do you want lots of pictures of guests or more detailed pictures of the wedding decor? Every once in a while there will be that perfect picture that was serendipitously captured at just the right moment. But more often it will take a little effort and preparation. Practice poses in a mirror or have a practice session with a camera beforehand so you feel comfortable with your posture and putting your best face forward. It may sound silly but unless you are naturally photogenic, it will probably be worth your time.

Even though your photographer should be paying attention to the details, you may also want to beware of telephone poles coming out of your head, unflattering outfits, or awkward couple positions that look painfully uncomfortable. I remember one invitation I received years ago where the couple was sitting on the floor and their legs were strangely intertwined. I couldn’t tell whose legs belonged to who. Remember that you may love an outfit and it may look great in the mirror, but not all outfits photograph the same.

For more pointers, read this post written by a professional photographer who gives some advice for having a good experience. Good Luck!

I recently discovered a slew of information about wedding rings on marthastewartweddings.com. It brought me back to the time when I actually thought about all that stuff. It was so fun to look at all the different styles and design various possibilities in my mind. Even though my husband ended up designing it and surprising me, I still had an idea of what I liked and found ways of letting him know. I’m not a really picky person, but I was a little nervous that he wouldn’t pick up on my hints. I should have had greater faith in him because I absolutely love my wedding ring. It makes me smile when I catch a glimpse of it and think about how well he knows me (or at least how well he listens to my not-so-subtle hints!).  Here is a little run down of the different possibilities:

A round cut is considered the most popular and traditional cut diamond. About 80% of all loose diamonds being sold today are round cut. This cut is known for maximum beauty and brilliance.

The second most popular cut of diamond that is sold.

Nicknamed “Teardrop of the Gods”. That has a nice ring to it (no pun intended).

Perhaps the most regal and elegant ring shape. Makes fingers appear longer. Due the large surface area, this ring will appear larger than another diamond cut of equal weight.

The heart is considered a very romantic ring choice. However it is incredibly difficult to do well. Absolute symmetry is paramount in order to have a ring that will retain it’s value.

While the emerald cut will not allow for maximum fire and brilliance, it is considered to have a very unique and heirloom-style quality about it. People who choose this cut are typically less concerned with the ‘bling’ and may be  more interested in making a creative and individual statement.

A cushion cut diamond also tends to look larger than it actually weighs making it a good value for those who like the look of a big diamond without the hefty price tag.

The asscher  is a highly specialized cut of diamond. Without any set proportions, the diamond cutter will specifically hand craft this cut for maximum brilliance. Sounds expensive to me but certainly beautiful and unique.

Oval cut rings are very seldom used in a solitaire setting. It is much more common to see as part of a three-stone setting. Considered very flattering for most hand shapes. (this is what I have and it is flanked on both sides with some smaller diamonds).

 Remember to consider your preferences concerning clarity and color. These were concepts totally foreign to me when I began learning about diamonds. However, if you don’t mind a few flaws or traces of color, you may be able to spend a little less for a larger diamond. If maximum clarity is preferred than you might consider a smaller size. Click here or here to find more diamond facts. And don’t forget to think about finishes too. I love the look of a brushed finish but I didn’t find many examples in jewelry stores unless I specifically asked to see one.

Utah provides plenty of gorgeous natural wedding backdrops. This featured wedding took place just outside Zions  National Park in Southern Utah.  Apart from the obvious natural beauty of the location, it also held special meaning for the bride and groom. This wedding was absolutely amazing…and I’m not just saying that because the groom is my brother. I guess that might make  me a little biased, so I will just let the pictures speak for themselves.

The meadow where the wedding took place was just outside of Zion Park Inn located in Springdale, Utah.

Great flower choices for a November wedding

Following the ceremony, the guests enjoyed cookies and hot chocolate at a nearby gazebo:

The mother of the bride created these beautiful centerpieces. I love all the little details especially the little photos of the bride and groom.

The reception was held at the nearby Switchback Grille (and everything was delicious in case you were wondering)

A heartfelt message to your guests will be much appreciated. I promise.

Music sets an important tone for a reception. I remember a few years ago when I attended a reception where the bride and groom entered to the beats of, “Lets Get Ready to Rumble”. That certainly set the stage for a more modern, fun, dance-party feel throughout the night. When I got married, my in-law’s family added a lot of their own musical talent. Throughout the night, various aunts, uncles, and cousins performed a wide variety of musical selections while our guests ate and mingled. Even without spending much money, music can add a sentimental and personal touch to the day or evening.

I recently attended a reception where I heard the West Coast Jazz Players provide the music for the evening. They were phenomenal. Their music selection was so smooth and classy. They are based in Southern Utah but are prepared to play elsewhere providing the inclusion of adequate travel expenses. As I watched them play throughout the night (people danced, by the way, which is always fun) I kept thinking that this is what so many engaged couples would consider priceless on their wedding day. Watching family and friends dance and enjoy themselves to music full of nostalgia and charm. If this sounds like your style, you should contact them right away!

In their own words:

From cool jazz to hard bop and upbeat swing to smooth ballads, West Coast Jazz Players present the entire spectrum of the 40s, 50s, & 60s jazz scene, while always accentuating themelodic jazz sound known as “west coast” jazz. For 15 years members of the West Coast Jazz Players have delighted audiences in the Southern Utah area at live concerts, wedding receptions, private parties, fairs, dances, special dinners, conventions, jazz festivals, open-houses, and more. Whatever your occasion, let the West Coast Jazz Players add sophistication and entertainment value to your event.

For details and bookings contact Carlyle Potter, WCJP Manager(435) 313-2545 or westcoastjazzplayers@gmail.com

You can also check out their Facebook page (West Coast Jazz Players) for sample videos.

The dragonfly is a symbol of happiness, vitality, and good luck in some cultures, and can add charm, class, and even whimsy to your wedding. I found unlimited ideas for incorporating this enchanting summertime visitor.

You can use a simplified stenciled image or a realistic picture.

Pure Splendor With a Natural Theme

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Dragonflies zing through the summer skies in many different hues, so don’t feel limited to dual-tones if you’re drawn to color. For a great DIY idea, dragonfly pendants and buttons available at any craft or bead store can be affixed to gorgeous ribbon to easily tie-together reception decor:

Imagine the  vibrant options available with ribbon selections and flowers that correspond with or complement each other!

Evening receptions or ones lit with indirect or dim light sources take on an ethereal aspect with these easy-to-replicate ideas:

Dragonfly–Perfect Symmetry and Style!

The dragonfly is no stranger to correspondence, either.  I found scores of announcement and invitation designs, and also found some DIY ideas to add dragonfly flair to any invitation of your choice:

The choices of imitation dragonflies available online will amaze you; I’ve posted just a few:

Whatever color scheme you employ, the dragonfly can effortlessly add charisma and grace. Just look at these amazing dragonfly wedding cakes:

Subtle beauty!

Perfect for Spring or Summer!

A simple addition!

I just got back from the most beautiful wedding that will not soon be forgotten among any in attendance. I may be a little biased given that my brother was the groom. Still, I have an inkling that you will be impressed too.  My brother, Greg,  has always been charming, funny, personable and creative. His bride, Scarlett, is equal in these qualities. Just one look at their invitations will convince you too.

You may be thinking that they probably paid a stylist or professional photographer  good money to put this all together. But no, Greg came up with the theme, “Come Together” (he’s been a faithful  fan of the Beatles for as long as I can remember) and all the props in the picture are from his new mother-in-law’s home. A friend took the picture.

Once again, I am probably biased, but everything about this picture makes me want to go to the wedding. I see two people who are not only in love, but want to share a big moment in their lives, with me.  So instead of just smiling for the camera (which is what I did so I’m not pointing any fingers) they took a little time and put some thought and personality into their invite.  I love it.

This photo was taken at a grove of trees in Provo (“the Grove”) that is just off Center Street near Seven Peaks. You need a permit to take pictures there but it is not difficult to obtain and should only cost around $20.

Here is another shot that didn’t make it to the final invitation but is equally charming (and features, “Edgar” the dog)…

The invitation also fits the style portrayed in the photo. Vintage, fun, warm and inviting.

Coming soon: pictures from the wedding/reception. You won’t be disappointed!

Looking for a unique way to supercharge your wedding with charm? Look to your past!

A growing wedding trend blends heritage-based traditions and details with modern flair. Face it, nothing adds meaning to a wedding like time-honored, genealogy-inspired refreshments and decor.

A focus on Northern Europe can pull heartstrings, with Scandinavia (Denmark, Norway and Sweden) and The Netherlands (Holland) offering beauty, taste and color.

While planning your 2012 spring or summer wedding, prepare to hear collective gasps of wonder as guests catch sight of Scandinavia’s most-grown flower, the Peony–ethereal, graceful,and the scent of heaven!

Lovely in shades of pink or pink-and-white

Peonies make it easy to showcase delicate details.

A heavenly aisle to walk!

I think Scandinavia’s consummate cookie, the ornate and delectable Krum Kake (pronounced “Crumb kah kah” is as elegant as it is enchanting–especially dusted with confectioner’s sugar. Perfect for receptions.

It is always fun to see real-life wedding features and imagine the possibilities. Although, I will secretly admit that sometimes I wonder if any of them are staged. How realistic is it to have 10 bridesmaids who all look like supermodels?  Plus, they are always in dreamy locations like a beach in Hawaii or vineyard in Napa Valley. Who couldn’t put together a gorgeous wedding in those locations?

I promise that today’s wedding feature is a real Utah wedding despite the insanely gorgeous people and dreamy backdrop. Meet Mel and Danny…

The luncheon was a picnic underneath the Groom’s tree house. Isn’t that so dreamy and romantic?

I can’t imagine a more child-friendly party environment.

Cake pop anyone?

And yes, there was even cotton candy!

There were a lot of great DIY projects that made this wedding absolutely lovely.

Photos courtesy of Abbie from little family in the big city (sister of the bride)

There are a lot of do-it-yourself projects for your wedding that will drain your time, money and energy with little impact on your overall wedding. On the other hand, there are certain details that are worth the effort. Imagine the impact of the first glance of these invitations:.

Obviously I am not encouraging you to hire out-this is a website to help you have an affordable wedding, and calligraphy generally costs double the cost of the invitation! But with the right pen, and printer, and a bit of creativity, you can have the same look.

The right pen…
As you browse calligraphy websites, you will see they encourage nibs and ink, but Isay they are messy and hard to work with. A few years ago I found a magical tool I think everyone should have at least three of(one in each size)…
“artpen”

ink for the pen

Pop the cartridge in, and it writes neatly and smoothly. I write everything with these pens! People actually comment how nice my real handwriting is! They vary from a think calligraphy tip, to a fine point pen tip. Once you write with one, you will never go back!  If you order one, make sure to get a lot of cartridges. They are cheap, and last a while.
Here is a youtube video on how to write with them:

You will also need A good font…

The two examples below have you type the calligraphy, print, and trace it. Make sure you have a good font to begin with. Here is a free Chopin Script Font
Calligraphy Idea Number One: The Light Table Approach
This idea comes http://weddingresourcepublishing.wordpress.com

STEP ONE
You will need to create templates for all of your addresses.

• Start by making a box the same size as your actual invitation (mine was 5″x7″.) This is so you can cut them out and slide them easily into your envelope to trace them.
• Type out the guest’s address (using your special font) where you will want it to appear on the envelope. Make sure you leave plenty of room at the top for your stamps.
• Enter your guest’s addresses one by one, and print out all of your templates. Make sure you DOUBLE CHECK your addresses!

STEP TWO

• Cut out all of your address templates. (I used a paper cutter, so I could cut out more than one at a time.)

STEP THREE

• Insert your template into your envelope, and use your lightbox (or glass coffee table, or window) so you can see the font through the envelope.

STEP FOUR
Carefully trace the addresses using the Artpen.

Calligraphy Idea Number Two: Printing On The Envelope

Jennifer from www.designsponge.com had a great idea to lightly print on your envelope, and then trace over the printing with your pen. She used white ink in this example.

For information on how to formally and correctly address people, visit this site:

http://www.plannersguide.com/calligraphy.htm

The perfect hairstyle is the finishing touch to the perfect dress. At times, hairstyles are so amazing they even outshine the dress. Be creative, and have fun… remember this is one of the few occasions you can have a fantastic updo. Below are an assortment of ideas for the perfect wedding hair.

pictures: onewed.com, glamour.com, realbeauty.com, marthastewart.com, weddings-place.com, weddinghair.com, haircutshairstyles.com

Some tips for making the perfect updo:  Go to

http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/photogallery/diy-wedding-updos Here are the sample of the updos they will teach you how to make.

Some other tips (from onewed.com)…

Get a good set of hot rollers. Hot rollers are key to creating loose, natural-looking curls. Wash your hair, apply some curling cream to the roots, flip your head over and blow dry upside down. Flip hair again and brush it out lightly. When your hair is dry, section off large pieces and set them in hot rollers, starting at your forehead, working your way to the sides, and finishing with the back. Rub some curling cream between your palms, remove the rollers, then finger-style to reduce frizz. “You’ll be left with soft, piece-y curls that are easy to sweep up and pin in place,” says Romero.

• Use the train track bobby pin method. “When you’re ready to create the updo, put away your comb and brush. “They’re a trade secret. They don’t slip and come in colors to match your hair.” Starting at the front of your head, take a three-inch section and gently pull it back, securing with two bobby pins, criss-

• Plan ahead, and practice!

Good luck!  You will be beautiful!

I have some fabulous real utah wedding features in the works that I can hardly wait to share with you, but in the meantime I’ve been so inspired with our previous autumn wedding posts  (see here and here)  and  that I thought I would add some more inspiration to the mix.

These gorgeous photos are from a baby shower featured on A Feathered Nest but the beautiful colors, decorations, and food could easily work for a bridal shower or even a wedding reception. Just looking at these pictures makes me want to put on a warm sweater and throw a party.

Visit A Feathered Nest for more details about the menu. All this gorgeous food is making my mouth water!

Back when I was getting married, I searched high and low for the perfect wedding dress. What I ended up finding was never something I thought I would like, but when I put it on it just felt like the right one. I fell in love. They only problem was that it didn’t have sleeves (and I needed sleeves). Luckily, the dress was well within my price range and I thought it couldn’t possibly be all that expensive to add sleeves to the dress. I was wrong. It ended up costing TWICE the amount I originally paid for the dress, just to add cap sleeves! I could have actually used the money I spent on the sleeves and bought a really nice expensive wedding dress that had everything I needed (the kind of wedding dress that I had originally ruled out in the beginning to save money). Now that I look back, a much more affordable option would have been to wear a bolero (also called a shrug or wrap).

From this Etsy shop

I saw a post about boleros on Emmaline Bride (where you can go to find most of these images)  and was blown away at how cute the different options are.  Something like this definitely would have been a better decision in my situation. A bolero would also work great for a fall or winter wedding when you want something to throw over your shoulders that will keep you warm but still look stylish. Something like this for instance:

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This one (above) would have looked perfect with my dress (in case you were wondering ). Source.

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Learn from my mistake ladies! A bolero can be a stylish and affordable option. The above images are all from Etsy shops…has anyone found a good resource in Utah?

I cant remember where, but I read that Novemeber is a perfect month for a reception… because there are no expectations on the weather!  No one is sad if it rains or snows, dissappointed at cold or wet… just extra happy if it is actually nice.  Everyone wants to cozy up and enjoy the harvest colors-anticipate the holidays.  People are in good moods.  I wonder if that is true?  For all you readers who are frantically planning a Novemeber wedding, lets just say it is!  Your wedding will be dreamy and perfect!   So how do you get that cozy, nastalagic, comfortable atmosphere?  Lets start colors…

Where are you going to get married?  I would choose the colors of your environment.  In the fall, the colors are so spectacular, anything else pails in comparison-almost clashes. What is around you?

Decor?

bargainbridezilla.com had this fun video…

Flowers:

A few months ago I posted about the least expensive fall flowers.  Here are a few pictures of those in autumn colors…

These are the other flowers that are in seaon…

Amaryllis

Anemone
Asters
Bird of Paradise
Blue Cloud
Calla Lily – Mini
Delphinium
Heather
Hypericum
Assorted Lilies
Lysmachia
Narcissus
Pepperberry
Protea
Rannunculus
Scabiosa
Statice
Tulips
Veronica
Yarrow

Although simple fall leaves are one of the most beautiful arrangements.  Start now while the leaves are AMAZING.  You can hang them, put them in vases, even press them and put them all over the center of the tables.  it would not disappoint, and you could even carry it into your cake. It is a beautiful season, have a beautiful wedding!

I remember when I first started hearing about photobooths at weddings, I thought it sounded fun but definitely overpriced. One bride said she spent well over a thousand dollars to rent a photobooth for one evening. So when I came across Picture It Photo Booths I was blown away at how affordable it could be to have not just a photobooth, but props and additional services included in the package!

The owner of Picture It Photo Booths, Lyndsy, filled me in on what makes their services unique:

When we started Picture It Photo Booths, we wanted it to be affordable, good quality, AND fun. Our prices are among the lowest in the industry. I remember my wedding budget being tight, so affordability was a big priority when we started. My husband, a master carpenter, designed and built our booths custom to give them the look and feel of classic photo booths, but with modern technology. We also wanted to include things that most of our competitors charge extra for. Our set up is free and so is use of our prop box. We have mullet wigs, boas, masquerade glasses, groucho glasses & mustaches, and more. You know it’s going to be a fun reception when guests are excited about our props and use them.

The best thing about photo booths: There isn’t a photographer behind the camera! You often will see sides of people you wouldn’t normally see. Photo booths are an excellent way to entertain your guests and make great favors as well. Our beautiful, custom designed logos capture the look and feel of our Brides’ wedding theme. These include the bride and groom’s names, the date, and include wedding colors. After the reception, we have found that guests keep the photo strips displayed at home, work or in their car months after the reception making your day unforgettable.

We help and encourage guest to get in the booth if they are a little shy. We will work with the DJ making announcements to make sure there is constant traffic coming through the booth throughout the reception. Photo booth pictures help capture the emotion and memories from the most important day of your life. Although, I have a tradition guest book with signatures and best wishes, what I would give to have pictures of all my guests! We offer a Scrapbook Service that takes care of everything so you don’t have to. You can just relax and enjoy the reception. We provide: a table, 12×12 leather scrapbook, adhesive, pens and our staff to help the guests. This is popular because you take home a completed scrapbook / guest book at the end of your reception.

The last post was inspiring with it’s dreamy pictures of well-lit weddings, so I have complied a few easy-to-follow tutorials to make some really great lanterns to light your reception. These are easy to make, and I tried to only attach the ideas that wouldn’t cost an arm and a leg. The references on these lantern projects are included at the bottom of this post.

This first lamp I have not been able to stop thinking about ever since I saw the idea. I always run across great old bottles in antique stores, and there is this grocery store by my house that sells recycled glass bottles. I can’t wait to try one of these!

I think the post could just end there, because I really don’t know if I have ever seen a cooler idea.  Imagine a few different heights of bottles all next to each other in the center of the table and all around the food table?  I think this alone would make your reception unforgettable!

Tree  lanterns are fun for  an outdoor reception.  These are inexpensive lanterns that you embelish by painting and removing the lantern’s glass to put pictures of you or your wedding theme.  I have an aunt who would not agree, but I think it is sweet to have a lot of couple pictures for the guests to enjoy.  The website for the lantern tutorial is on the bottom of the post.

My last idea to share is the good ‘ol mason jar lantern.  I put it last because it really only will go with a few wedding receptions… like a barn wedding.  But at the right event, these would be magical.  A comment on this website about this tutorial was…”I made these for a wedding this weekend, we put a little moss in the bottom with a tealight and hung them on rusty shepard hooks down the aisle way. It was the perfect touch to the vintage feel of the wedding!”  These could be really fun.

http://www.freshhomeideas.com/diy-projects/eco-friendly-projects/how-to-make-oil-lanterns

http://decor8blog.com/2009/04/01/craft-tutorial-photo-lanterns/

http://chezbeeperbebe.blogspot.com/2009/07/tutorial-how-to-make-mason-jar-lantern.html

Here is some inexpensive clear lamp oil and wicks…

Have fun!  Hopefully these ideas will inspire lighting at your wedding worthy of a post!

Ambiance. I love that word. All the decor, entertainment, music…it is really just an effort to create a special ambiance for your wedding day. You want the very air filled with romance, happiness, charm, beauty, celebration, and of course, love. Am I right? Well a somewhat easy way to achieve ambiance is lighting. Lighting can make everyone forget that you are actually throwing  a party in a barn or a church gym or Uncle Joe’s backyard (or wherever your reception happens to be) and can transform a space into something magical and romantic.  I’ve collected some lighting ideas ranging from easy to a little more difficult. Enjoy…

String Lights

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Lanterns are one of my favorite ways of creating ambiance.

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I came across this online vendor where you can seriously find every type of lantern in every color imaginable. Very inexpensive too!

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Every once in a while you see or hear of a new idea to do at a wedding that is so clever, you wonder how weddings went on without it.  This DIY project from projectwedding.com is both personal and fun.  Here is a unique idea on how to “pop the question” to your bridesmaid hopefuls… check out this fun idea of a way you can make her feel extra special when you let her know you would like her to be a special part of your much anticipated day!

To complete and give each guide here are some suggestions on what to include:

(1) – Printed photos and when applicable fabric swatches, for bridesmaid dresses, shoes and accessories. Even if you plan to let your bridesmaids chose their own dresses, think of this as a good resource to guide them in their search. Providing fabric swatches in the colors and textures you prefer will help ensure that all members of your bridal party are on the same aesthetic wavelength.
(2) – Business cards, and a glassine envelope (5) to tuck them into. If you’re all getting hair done together, why not include the salon’s business card for reference? Cards from the dress shop, tailor or relevant vendors might also be handy.
(3) and (4) – These bridesmaid’s guides can be mailed using appropriate postage and the address labels included in the downloadable template. You can print the labels on adhesive paper, or just use plain paper and affix with a glue stick.
(6) and (7) – If you’ll be hand delivering these guides you can finish them off with a ribbon tie and an oval label (also from the template).

Pastel postage stamps…. can be ordered (or designed) on zazzle.com.  This site is great if you have a few extra dollars to spend on your wedding invitation stamps! http://www.zazzle.com/pink_pastel_rose_postage-172712440280570214

this website also has some really great labels… http://www.zazzle.com/b_dot_circle_mongram_address_label_mint_brown-106553513729994276

What a personal way to ask a bridesmaid, and in doing, you create a beautiful keepsake that will give her all the information she will need for the upcoming months!  Don’t forget to make one for yourself!

Who knew? I was just browsing outrageous wedding tablecloth prices trying to find a good prices to blog about and I discovered something… and feel almost sneaky, like I have a secret… PAPER TABLECLOTHS! Classy linen-like look and feel!! Can be ironed!!! You can get all your tablecloths for the price of one style-less polyester wedding tablecloth. Do you feel guilty even thinking about it? Open your mind to a wallet closing experience… Disposable Wedding Tablecloths!!

www.divinedisposables.com
www.partyatlewis.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Category_code=Better-than-Linen
www.papertablecloths.info

The first thing I have to say about DIY bouquets is to just get a florist. You have too many things to worry about the day before your wedding, and don’t want to be looking for a replacement red Zinnia all day long. I am a firm believer there are things a bride should just spend the money on-like florists and photographers. You get what you pay for, and always regret if you don’t.

But having said that, if you must… here are some ideas.

When you have girls as pretty as these ladies from an article in long-island.newsday.com, a simple flower will do. The long stemmed Calla Lilies are elegant, and you can not go wrong with the simple beauty of a white Star-Gazer Lilly.  They happen to be two of my three favorite flowers.  The bride’s mother made the bouquets and all flower arrangements.  She ordered the flowers online, and saved over a thousand dollars on the florist’s estimate!  Beautiful flowers are lovely on their own, and a simple wrapping is all they need.
TO WRAP YOUR BOUQUET
1. Prep your wedding flowers. Remove any thorns or unwanted leaves. Cut your stems at an angle roughly 2 inches from the bottom. Keep in mind you can make your bouquet stems any length you desire but keep the stems long while you work and clip them short afterwards.

Once you’ve trimmed your flowers, arrange them to your liking. Work from the inside out to create a round dome shape using taller stems in the middle. There are many different bouquet styles so research which you prefer ahead of time or you’ll be working off the cuff.

2. Secure the stems. Using floral tape, wrap the stems tightly stopping about two inches before the end of your desired length. If you’re using loose flowers you might consider using green floral wire to secure sections towards the top of the stems, this will help create more support for the neck of the flowers.

3. Wrapping your wedding bouquet. At this point you have the option to cut your stems to your desired length. If you’re wrapping the bottom of the bouquet then you’ll have to cut off your ends. If you’re unsure your desired length you can start wrapping before cutting. http://blog.koyalwholesale.com/2011/07/wedding-diy-how-to-create-your-own-wedding-bouquet-wrap/

Here are some ideas, a website and a video explaining how to wrap the stems of your flowers.

www.save-on-crafts.com/bouquetwraps.html

http://video.about.com/weddings/Make-a-Wedding-Bouquet.htm

Good luck and have fun!  Pick a nice flower, and let it do all the work!

Thousands of dollars are spent in reception halls trying to achieve a natural look… when the whole atmosphere could have been easy captured at a canyon park. Utah has incredible scenery, and weather that almost guarantees you an outdoor climate fit for a wedding. Why spend a fortune creating what is already created? A natural, outdoor, woodsy-wedding gives a charm and appeal you just can’t recreate.

I have to admit, a woodsy theme is close to my heart, and as I looked, I could hardly sort through all the clever ideas!  There are treasure troves of ideas for the taking, some so unique and fun I wanted to start making wedding decorations for no reason-and that is kind of crazy.  Below are TONS on pictures, but be patient… it is well worth it!

First item of business… the cakes!

Sorry for the fuzzy last picture, but can you believe how AMAZING those cakes are?

Just wait until you see the decorations and woodsy table toppers I found…..

Love the patchwork picnic blanket idea (see last post)-and the idea of little handblown glass candles hanging all over trees makes me almost want to cry.  Wow.

Last picturebook… Woodsy dress and photo ideas

Well you did it, you made it through all the pictures!  And wasn’t it worth it?

A woodsy wedding would not only be amazing to go to, but a blast to plan.  You can’t go wrong with nature, and it will never go out of style!

When I saw this idea on 100 Layer Cake, I knew it was a winner. I love when creative people find a way to weave their guests into the wedding in a fun, meaningful, or even useful way. I have a photo album that our guests signed as they entered the reception, but I’ll admit that I don’t look at it very often.

This bride had each guest send in a piece of fabric along with their response cards (although I think you could also request that they bring a piece of fabric to the wedding if you are not sending out response cards). The result…

What a great idea! Especially if you like to quilt or know someone who does. If this look is a little too crazy for you, adding a small square of each fabric piece to a white background would create a more streamlined look. In the end you would have a wedding keepsake that each guest helped to create with little or no expense on their part.

This idea could also be adapted for a bridal shower. My husband’s extended family (aunts, cousins, etc.) threw me a shower where we spent the whole time tying a quilt that I still use on my bed. It was a great way to pass the time and get to know each other without awkward party games or long pauses with nothing to do.

I would end the post there but this wedding is so visually stunning I can’t resist including some more eye candy…

Yes, that is a double rainbow. Are you hoping for rain on your wedding day now?

I suddenly wish I had a barn at my reception!

I know that I am about to tread into dangerous territory with this post. It seems that if there is anything a bride has a strong opinion about, it is the wedding ring she will wear for the rest of her life. Sometimes those opinions are very affordable for the groom and sometimes those opinions result in years and years of paying it off (or saving up). I completely understand why a bride would desire a particular style or size ring, but sometimes the bottom line makes that “dream ring” unrealistic. If you are looking at such a bottom line, consider the wedding tradition adopted by this beautiful couple, Marcos and Metta. It is both affordable and, in my opinion, meaningful and romantic!

In her own words…

On rare occasions I will go out with my flashy cubic zirconia “bling” ring that I bought for $2.50 on clearance at the mall, but every other day of my life I am a wedding band kind of a girl!  When my husband Marcos was planning to propose and called my mother to ask if she knew my ring size, she hinted to him that I wasn’t exactly the type of girl to wear a diamond, but he was already hatching plans of his own.  In Marcos’ home country of Brazil, traditions around wedding rings are different than in the United States.  When a man proposes, he presents his fiancé with a wedding band with his name engraved beautifully on the inside, and he in turn wears a band with her name engraved on the inside.  During their engagement, the couple wears the rings on the right hand, and on the wedding day rings are switched to the left.  Shortly after the wedding, the couple also has the wedding date added to the engraved names on the insides of their rings, to signify the date of their union.  This tradition has matched beautifully with our marriage, and I love the simplicity of my meaningful wedding band.  Maybe by the time our 50th wedding anniversary rolls around I will want a diamond, but every day until then, I will be a wedding band kind of a girl!

Having a meaningful and beautiful wedding ring doesn’t have to leave you drowning in debt. Or maybe you just aren’t a diamond kind of girl.  Just adopt this Brazilian tradition as your own and you will always have a sweet and simple reminder of your marriage commitment.

I love this easy DIY project by wedding designer, Beth Helmstetter.  What a lovely ambiance, especially for a cozy winter reception. Best of all, you could reuse these candle holders for your holiday decorating (which will be my excuse to make them:)).  Using eyelet fabric would be my first choice, but this would also be easy to re-create using some craft paper.  Step by step instructions and tips can be found here. I also included the basic steps below.

Materials

-Inexpensive Straight Cylinder vase or candle holder (can be found for $3 to $10 at craft stores like Michael’s)
-Eyelet Material or material of choice by the yard (We found ours in the fashion district of downtown LA, but there are plenty of resources online as well)
-measuring stick
-Spray Fabric Adhesive
-Scissors

Instructions

1. First measure the height of your glass hurricane and cut the eyelet material to the appropriate width.

2. Spray the fabric adhesive onto the hurricane holder and wrap the candle slowly with the material, being sure to smooth out any wrinkles as you apply the material.

3. Trim the material that isn’t straight or that might be overflowing at the top of the candle holder. Allow to dry for up to 24 hours prior to use.

Just for fun, here are a few more pictures from this wedding (this would blend together so well in the beautiful Utah mountains):

All day I feel like I have been hearing about  Martha Stewart’s birthday. Is it just me? Well, I couldn’t help but browse marthastewartweddings.com in honor of her big day. She does have some great ideas. I love these save-the-date cards:

I didn’t actually use save-the-date cards for my wedding because most of my guests lived nearby and the engagement wasn’t very long. However, I think that they are the perfect opportunity to add some flair and fun to your wedding planning. Even if you want to stick to timeless and formal for the wedding day itself, I think you can get away with something a little more whimsical and eye-catching with a save-the-date card.

Martha’s website is a great place to find free templates for ideas such as these:

Happy Birthday Martha!

p.s. As I perused her volumes of real-life wedding features, I didn’t see very many [NONE] Utah weddings.  I think its time for Utah to represent! Send in your wedding pictures and make us proud! Click here to find out how.