Fairy tales aren’t just for young children. They offer hope for a magical tomorrow, and isn’t that what every bride wants? A happily ever after, when she begins the new chapter of her life as a wife.
The fascination for fairy tales, princesses, and Prince Charming never goes away for some women. If you are a bride, who has always been in love with fairy tales, you will definitely want a big fairy tale wedding to mark your union with your real-life Prince Charming. After all, you get married only once and you deserve to feel like a royal princess on this special day in your life.
Planning the fairy tale wedding of your dreams isn’t too difficult when you have plenty of ideas to inspire you. Here are some magical fairy tale-inspired ideas for your royal wedding. Take a look and let us know what you will choose from them, for your wedding.
Shoes are a weakness for most regular women! Let’s face it, how many of us are able to resist the temptation to splurge on beautiful shoes? True that these may only be a part of the ensemble, and we may need various shoes for various looks, but it is an obsession that the opposite sex simply cannot understand.
And when the question is about wedding shoes, it is impossibly difficult to choose. This is just one pair of shoes that we have to choose from the hundreds of gorgeous and interesting varieties. I think that it is a very difficult decision, next only to choosing the wedding dress itself. Don’t you agree?
For those of you lovely ladies who are already straining your heads over which pair of shoes should be chosen for your big day, here is some valuable help. Our bridal experts at Best for Bride have the following valuable shoe-shopping advice for the soon-to-be brides. So, here goes.
1.Shoes should be next on the shopping list, following the wedding dress
Once you find your dream wedding gown, do not postpone shopping for your wedding shoes. It is even fine if you swap the order and buy your shoes first, even before your wedding dress. The only condition is that you should know what you want. We have seen brides choose their wedding dress with more ease than they were able to settle on a pair of shoes. Be prepared to have a lengthy shopping experience, if you are very particular about what you want to wear on your feet. So, once the dress shopping is out of the way, shoe shopping should be next on your list of to-do’s. Remember that you need your shoes for all your dress alteration appointments, from the first to the last. Only then can your wedding dress hem be altered to the right length. So, if you are exhausted after your wedding dress shopping, take a short break. But, don’t delay shopping for your wedding shoes beyond a week afterwards.
2.Style and comfort—two factors that matter
Your wedding shoes should not only look stylish, they should feel comfortable too. Many brides often worry that beautiful looking shoes will take time to adjust to, because they will pinch the feet and cause agony. However, this is not always so. By choosing good quality material and craftsmanship, you can easily come across a number of shoes that will look good, even while they feel great on your feet. Heels of leather and similar materials, and with thick cushioned insoles will be perfect. The comfort factor will also be affected by the type of heels you wear. You can be comfy without sacrificing style, by choosing flat heels instead of pointed ones. If you truly have difficulty finding wedding shoes that are comfortable, we suggest looking in the regular shoe aisles. Even the simplest pair of white heels can be dressed up to look wedding-worthy, if you are ready to spend some time and work on it.
3.Choose shoes with features you love
Your wedding shoes need not be white, they needn’t have high pointed heels, nor do they have to be crazy expensive. These are all factors that are up to you to choose. As with every other thing that you wear on your wedding day, your shoes should also be something you love. Don’t let tradition nor fashion dictate your choice. Choose shoes that are either beautiful with details that you love, or go with comfort as your benchmark. If you love shoes with a bow embellishment, or prefer a peep-toe detail, this is what you should look for. When you consider features, you should also think of the style that you are most comfortable in. Don’t force yourself into shoes with heels that are too high, if you have always avoided heels. Remember that your comfort and personal style are the most important factors to consider when choosing your wedding shoes.
4.Handmade shoes are the best
Handmade shoes have many desirable qualities. These include the extra comfort associated with this method of production and the unique look that you can achieve with handmade shoes. They also give you that special and unique feeling of being extra-pampered, because of how carefully they are made. It is likely that handmade shoes will be more expensive than the regular shoes you find in stores. Nevertheless, just like your wedding is a one-time occasion, your shoes can also be extra special this one time. Certain manufacturers can customize your shoes specifically to meet your expectations and do a few extra details so they match your wedding dress perfectly. However, you may have to place your order early to ensure that all this is done on time. Unlike store-brought shoes, there is a greater lead time associated with handmade shoes. So, this is one important factor to keep in mind.
5.Stock up on emergency shoe accessories
With a little luck, nothing will go wrong on your wedding day. But it never hurts to be extra cautions. So, prepare for your wedding day with spares and stock your emergency kit to meet any disaster. Your emergency supplies in the shoe department should include extra insoles, gum to stick any embellishment that comes loose, tissues and clear alcohol to rub off stains. Padded leather heel grips and shoe cushions will prevent you from slipping and non-slip insoles will provide added comfort. If you aren’t used to wearing heels, you may also like to carry a spare pair of shoes in a comfortable style, to wear while you dance or if your feet hurt from standing for too long on the day. Even if you do not intend to change your shoes during the day, it doesn’t hurt to carry a spare pair, just in case something goes wrong and you need a replacement to get through the day.
6.Wear them in
New shoes are notorious for causing shoe-bite. Standing in a shoe that hasn’t been worn-in for an entire day can be tortuous, as you will be walking around and using it a lot on your wedding day. If the shoe pinches, your feet can be sore by the end of the evening, and this will ruin the entire experience for you. So, as soon as you take your shoes home, make sure you set aside time to wear it occasionally. This can be for an hour every three or four days, so your feet slowly get accustomed to the shoes. It will also help you feel comfortable moving around in it, especially if the shoe has high heels. You will not have to worry about wobbly shoes or tripping off the heels on the day of your wedding, if you are already used to the shoes. Additionally, wear it to your wedding dress appointments, and practice moving around in your wedding dress, while wearing these shoes. This will help you adjust to both the long and heavy gown, as well as the pretty shoes, and make the task of moving around on your wedding day much easier.
7.Always buy the correct fit
You may wear your wedding shoes only on the day you get married, or if you have thought this out very well, you may use it several times later. Either way, your shoes should fit you perfectly, and for this you need to buy them in your exact measurements. Shoes that almost fit can end up feeling loose or pinching your feet, when you have to spend hours in it on your wedding day. To find the right size, you should consider your feet’s width and shape, and whether there are any lumps or protrusions that have to be accommodated in your shoes. The right size would not pinch your toes, rub the ankle bone and sides, or feel like they are squashing your feet within. This makes it essential to try your shoes on, before you actually buy it. If you purchase your shoes online, read the return policy and warranty statements. Make sure you can return it or exchange it for another size if it doesn’t feel right when you actually try it on.
8.Keep your venue in mind when choosing shoes
Not all shoes are suitable in all venues. Consider whether the shoes you like will be suitable for the venue you choose. Venues like historic mansions and places with wooden flooring may have specific rules about wearing pointed heels. Check this out first, before you invest money in a pair of amazing heels. Heels may also not be practical in hillside parks, or at venues with long winding staircases that you will have to go up and down multiple times. Apart from the venue, you should also keep the weather in mind when choosing shoes. If your wedding is in autumn or winter, you may like to look for closed and cosy shoes, that will keep your feet from feeling too cold. Or you can carry a pair of wedding boots as a spare for when you have to go out in the cold.
9.Always have an alternate idea in mind
If there is one wedding accessory that you shouldn’t have your mind set on to the last detail, it is your wedding shoes. Since this is a tight fitting accessory, and one that has limited room for adjustments, you should always be open to options. Look for ideas in pictures, but be prepared to search when you actually go shopping. Otherwise, it will be a disappointment if you are unable to find a comfortable pair of shoes with features that you love. While style is a necessary factor, don’t ever compromise comfort for style. Although it is only one day that you will have to spend it your shoes, an ill-fitting pair can do enough damage to your feet to leave you pain for several days afterwards. You do not want to spend your honeymoon limping around in flip-flops to get over the blisters and wounds you made on your feet. Be ready to look at options besides those that are closest to what you have in mind, or spend the little extra to have your shoes handmade and customized to your specific requirement, and you will be better off.
10.Think outside the box
If you are unable to find shoes in the color you want to wear, don’t panic or reach for a pair that you think will do the job, even if it means spending more or being uncomfortable. Shoe dyeing services allow you to dye a pair of chosen shoes in any chosen shade, so it is just perfect for you. So, if you are stuck in a situation where you love a pair of shoes, except that they aren’t the right color, consider having it dyed. Similarly, there are plenty of other options to add that extra dose of glamour to your feet. You can buy pretty shoe accessories online, and this includes bows, ribbons, stickers, stones and other embellishments. These are relatively inexpensive, but allow you to achieve a special touch of beauty with these accessories. There are also plenty of tutorials online that can help you customize your shoes to look extra-special. So, check them out for help.
The right pair of shoes can work magic in making you feel extraordinary and amazing on your big day. And, this is something every bride deserves. So, spare no attention to detail, and don’t compromise on what you choose to wear on your feet on the day you say “I do.”
If you have chosen your wedding shoes already, or are in the market to buy them, tell us what factors you consider most important?
To choose from our brilliant collection of wedding shoes, visit this page on Best for Bride. We also stock other wedding accessories like jewelry that you may like to take a look at. For everything you need for your wedding day, visit Best for Bride today and find out how we can make your wedding day extra-special.
Once you wear your wedding gown on your wedding day, your transformation into a bride is almost complete. There are few things left to do now, before you walk down the aisle. But before you step into your dream wedding dress, there are a couple of things you should first complete. This is what we will look at today. Here is a list of must-do’s before you finally wear your bridal dress, and are ready to walk down the aisle.
Now that you are newly engaged and finished celebrating your engagement party with your dear folks, are you all set to dive into wedding planning? Just wait a second! There are certain things that you should be aware of, before you start wedding planning. These will help you save a lot of money, as well as make your planning process a lot easier.
Today, let us take a look at a handful of helpful tips to use when planning your wedding. Trust us, it will save you a lot of confusion and regrets later. And, here they are!
1.Booking the venue—what to remember
While factors like matching your wedding theme, the ease of reaching the location and number of people it can accommodate are all relevant factors, there are some things to remember, if you are on a budget. They are:
Peak wedding months are expensive: June to August is peak wedding season, and everything is at a premium cost during this time. Consider getting married earlier in the year, when winter is no longer as severe, and spring is just about to arrive. Or, you can consider early fall for your wedding, as venues often slash their prices this time of the year.
Don’t hesitate to ask for a discount: Don’t assume that the price you receive on your venue is final! Even if it is just falls within your budget, don’t quickly jump at the quote and book the venue right away. Negotiate with the venue manager and find out if there is any possibility of getting it at a lower price. If you are lucky, you may get yourself a better bargain.
Look at alternatives, before visiting your preferred location: This helps in two ways. First, you will know which option you will consider, should your first choice not work out. Secondly, it allows you to know what else is on offer, and make a wise decision based on it. As with anything wedding related, it is a good idea to research and explore your choices before you settle down with what you actually choose for the wedding.
2.Wedding planner—what are the options
Booking a wedding planner will make your wedding planning a lot easier. However, you should know that there are different options, and depending on what you choose, the service you receive and the price you pay will be different. So, let us take a look at what are your options.
Event planners: This is the whole package, where the planner will be involved in every aspect of planning your wedding. They will literally do your job for you, and will be responsible for executing everything at your wedding and making sure there are no hassles on the day. Event planners are quite expensive, as they will be working on your wedding for several months and you have to compensate them for their time and effort.
Part-time planners: This is where you do not outsource the entire wedding planning process, but only selected aspects that you aren’t able to handle yourself. This is more budget-friendly, as you can delegate the tasks that you do not have the time for, and pay only for it. Since you will be doing the greater share of the work, you will find it much cheaper than booking an event planner. If you are naturally organized and want to personally oversee your wedding details, this may be the right option for you.
Day-of coordinator: Even if you are handling everything about your wedding yourself, a day-of coordinator should definitely be considered. This is because you do not want to worry yourself with last-minute details on your wedding day. If you want a stress-free wedding day, a day-of coordinator can take charge of managing the various factors on that day. They will see that everything progresses smoothly and as per plan, leaving you to enjoy your wedding as you should.
Once you choose which of these services meets your needs best, again discuss the charges with the people you consider for the job. Compare the rates for an all-inclusive package with one for customized services, and choose the one that is best for your budget and needs.
3.Before paying for Wedding Entertainment
Choosing between a DJ and a band can be really confusing. You may be under the general impression that a DJ costs much lesser than a band. However, it can be quite expensive to book a good DJ who can actually make your party come alive. There are ways in which you can get a reasonable quote for a band too, and here are some tips for that.
Look for experienced student groups: If there is a music school in your area, you may be in luck. Student groups are usually energetic, exciting and just as efficient as a trained band in creating a lively party atmosphere. The bonus is that they cost much less. So, if you are up for the risk, look around for such a band.
Ask for the breakup charges: Instead of just being shocked by the overall quote from a band, ask them for the breakup costs. If it includes transportation, see if you can arrange a cheaper alternative and save some cash that way. Also, look at the list of musicians and ask if you can downsize to just those who you actually need.
4.Before you go wedding shopping
Wedding dresses are crucial to transforming you into a splendid bride, however they can be quite pricey. Before you step into the shop, do your research and know your options. Here are some ways to make the most of your wedding dress budget.
Consider more than one style: If you keep your options open, it is easier to find a dress that falls within budget. Do your research ahead of time, and identify which styles will look good on you. Then look at dresses in these styles and choose the one that you are satisfied with, both in look and in price.
Look at the clearance and sale section: Many bridal shops like Best for Bride, will always have dresses on discounts and on sale. Before you look at the latest collection, it may be a good idea to see what is available in the sale section. You may find a dress that is quite similar to what you love in the current collection, at a fraction of a price.
Wait for trunk shows: Trunk shows are a bride’s dream-come-true, especially if you are in a standard 8-12 size group. These shows allow you to find the dress of your dreams at a reduced cost. If you are engaged for a year or more, it is likely that you will come across at least one trunk show during this time. So, call up the boutiques in the area and find out whether they have one scheduled in the near future. Put off your wedding shopping session till after wards, so you can take a chance and hope to find your wedding dress at the trunk show.
Save on alterations: When you fix your wedding dress budget, you also have to account for the alteration charges for the dress. It is highly unlikely that you will perfectly fit into a dress you find off-the-rack. So, you will have to pay extra to alter it to fit you. However, you will have to pay less on alterations if you take care of the following factors
find a dress that is closest to your actual size, neither too big nor too small
not make expensive custom changes, like altering the neckline or design feature as any amount of rework will cost more money
Rent your dress: If you really want to make the most of your wedding dress budget, consider renting the dress instead of buying it. At shops like Best for Bride, the rental section has ample choices in different sizes. You can rent the dress along with the accessories for a fraction of the original cost, and not worry about boxing or caring for the dress afterwards and put the money to some other use. Alternately, you can also scour the internet for unused dresses on sales, that usually are a great bargain as they are brand new, but not as expensive as a fresh piece in a shop.
5.Before you take any pictures
Wedding photography is an essential for every wedding, and you can choose from different types and packages based on your preferences and budget. Before you even set out to look for a photographer, consider how you want your wedding photographs to be captured. The different types of wedding photography include:
Traditional: The classic portrait style photographs with group pictures in specified poses.
Casual: Candid photography, where the photographer captures casual and original moments of the day, and shoots from unconventional angles. The photographer aims to recreate the memories of the day, by capturing the wedding with the most relevant and unique pictures that characterize the wedding.
A mix of the two: Here, the photographer uses both casual and posed portraits to completely cover the wedding.
Art-style: Here the focus is on creating one-of-a-kind photographs that transcend into the realm of art. It is anything but traditional.
Depending on your personal taste, you can decide upon the type of photography to have at your wedding, and then find photographers who work with the style you choose. Some tips to help you, before you start shortlisting photographers are as follows.
Compare packages and custom deals: You may not always require all that is included in a photographer’s package. If this is the case, ask if you can have a custom quote based on what you require. This is also useful if you need an extra service from what is included in a package deal.
Discuss how many hours you will need the photographer to cover your wedding: Before you meet with a photographer, be clear on how much time you will need his services for. You must make sure that he will be available for the important events both at the start and the end of the day. If he charges overtime rates for staying beyond certain number of hours, and in case your wedding goes on for longer than anticipated, make sure you know in advance.
6.The food factor
There are many factors that decide the food expenses you will have to incur. Factors to consider when choosing your caterer are as follows.
Choice of menu: Remember that gourmet meals will cost more than standard meals. So, let the choice of cuisine be one of the guiding factors in determining your food budget. The overall presentation and whether the dishes have to be created fresh on-site or can be prepared in advance will also decide the catering cost.
Buffet or plated-style: Buffets and plated meals, both have their own pros and cons. The sensible and budget-friendly option is to have a mix of both styles. This means you can use shared platters for the main meal, while individual portions are served as starters. This will minimize wastage and maximize the value for money.
This brings us to the end of the various factors that will prevent a headache for you, later. Do your research and plan the possible workable options for each of these choices, and you will be able to work it out very easily.
Best for Bride is a wedding shop that brings you the latest and trendiest in wedding gowns, bridesmaids dresses and attire for the wedding party. We also have invitations, wedding favors and services like wedding cakes, décor arrangements and florists. Visit our online bridal shop to learn more about all our services, and also find out about the latest offers, discounts and sales we have. Experience the best of bridal shopping with our seasoned bridal consultants who will assist you in finding the dream gown for your big day. For a fun-filled and enjoyable experience, contact us today and book your appointment.
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