Tag: wedding tips

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Are Wedding Programs Necessary?

Wedding programs provide a list of the parts of the ceremony and details such as the members of the bridal party. In a small, casual wedding, the wedding program may seem unnecessary. Perhaps, it is. It’s not right or wrong to have a wedding program. The choice is up to the bride and groom. Wedding programs can be helpful if the ceremony is long or the audience may not know all the members of the bridal party. Some couples include a thank you to the vendors. Are wedding programs necessary?

If the wedding is a large, formal wedding in which everyone in attendance doesn’t know the members of the bridal party, the wedding programs are an initial introduction. The guests may appreciate being able to follow along with a program for a lengthy ceremony. If there are several participants in the wedding ceremony such as a soloist, organist, or other individuals, including their names in the programs is proper wedding etiquette. You wouldn’t want any of the people who help make your wedding special to end up feeling slighted or ignored. Also, guests may want to know who the people are who are participating. It helps create ties that help everyone feel included.

A traditional program lists the components of the ceremony such as the music, vows, unity ceremony, etc. The program does not need to be detailed. Some people take a lighthearted approach to the program and list the events as: “We get married. Everyone parties.”

Wedding ceremony programs can be a beautiful touch to a wedding. Even if you don’t feel like a wedding program is absolutely necessary for your wedding, you may want to look at different types of wedding programs before deciding whether or not to have one. Etsy, the website specializing in handcrafted goods, sells some gorgeous handmade wedding programs. There is a wide variety of styles of wedding programs that can be purchased through Best for Bride.

If you know you want programs, you may want to ask about them when ordering your invitations. The programs do not need to be coordinated with your wedding invitations, but you may like that consistency. The program can be true to your theme. If you browse the wedding programs sold through Best for Bride, you can see that programs can be any style from rustic to classical. Brides and grooms who are having destination weddings or a wedding at a historical location may want to add some details about the location in the wedding programs.

Humorous programs are popular for couples who love to laugh and share the joy of the moment. The programs might include a comic about marriage or joke about the couple. One couple put the line: “So you’re about to sit through a wedding” on the front page of their wedding programs.

Some couples include nice little stories in the wedding programs such as how they met or how he proposed. A favorite program or dedications to deceased relatives might be included. If you are on a tight budget, you may want to consult with the printer to find out how much the printing costs per page before deciding how much to add to the program.

For more wedding tips to help create the perfect wedding, please visit the Best for Bride blog. We have some helpful advice for choosing a wedding gown, selecting invitations, and many other wedding planning decisions.

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How to Hire a Caterer for a Wedding Reception

food catering

 

Couples recruit several professionals to help with their weddings. Each one plays a part in making the wedding as the couple wants it. The photographer, officiant, florist, and caterer have roles to fill to ensure the wedding becomes the special day the couple has been planning for months. Choosing a caterer is an important part of having the reception of your dreams. Here are some tips about how to hire a caterer for a wedding reception.

The couple may feel pressured to use a friend or family member as the caterer. If the couple is confronted with this situation, they may need to be assertive and politely say they are using a different caterer. A caterer, friend or family member who would be invited to the wedding may be appeased with the couple sharing that they would like the person to be able to relax and enjoy the wedding. The friend actually might enjoy the opportunity of seeing what a competing caterer is doing.

An engaged couple should start looking for a caterer nine months to a year before the wedding date. Some couples rush into hiring the first caterer they meet. Consider holding off on the decision until after meeting several caterers available for the wedding date. If caterers bring samples to the meeting, ask if they charge for them.

Getting caught up in discussing details, such as certain menu items, is easy. While the couple will want to share their ideas, the focus should be on the overall feel they want for the reception for the first meeting. The couple should discuss the caterers specialties and what type of cuisine the caterer would suggest for the style of the wedding. You can learn more at ipantry.com.au about why it is important to choose a caterer who is experienced in the type of cuisine you want for your wedding. Couples can discuss whether they want a formal dinner or buffet and receive suggestions from the caterers.

Caterers usually price the event per person. Before meeting with the caterers, know approximately how many guests you will have. You don’t have to know the exact number of guests at this early stage. However, you may find it helpful to know your budget and an estimate of the number of guests when discussing prices with potential caterers.

Know exactly what the caterer provides. Some caterers provide the tables, chairs, and dinnerware. Others only provide dinnerware. Some caterers only provide the food and serve the guests or set up a buffet. Caterers may have these items and services included in the price or for additional fees. Therefore, it’s important to ask what is included and what services cost extra.

When it comes to the wedding cake, some caterers will charge an extra fee to serve the cake. If you want the caterer to handle cutting and serving the wedding cake, be sure to discuss this with the caterers. A few caterers work with bakers to provide the cake as well.

Planning a wedding involves taking care of many details and making decisions. The Best for Bride blog contains helpful tips for stress-free wedding planning.

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Alternatives to Open Bar Receptions

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Not every bride is interested in having an open bar at their reception. However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t have a fun alternative. Open bars are expensive and they can easily put your budget over the top. Instead of going for one of these lavish affairs, try out one of these options that are budget friendly. With the dangers that alcohol places on drivers, you will also be keeping your guests safe as well.

Juice Bar

Another fun option is a juice bar. With this, you can offer different types of juices and flavors for your guests to choose from. Offering a sparkling water option to mix with the juices can also be a fun way for guests to enjoy the bar. You can also offer water, coffee, milk and soda as well so that everyone will have something that they enjoy drinking.

Coffee Bar

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Coffee is one thing that many people have in common. Instead of serving alcohol, try this option instead. You can offer different types of coffee along with special flavors and things that people can add to their coffee, like special creamers. Don’t forget about the kids that will be attending as well and add a hot chocolate option for them to enjoy.

Punch

Punch has long been a staple for parties and other events. You can easily make a punch that matches the colors of your wedding and display it in a pretty punch bowl. Don’t worry about buying a punch bowl that is large enough for all your guests, because you will be able to rent one from a part supply store. Just make sure that you have plenty to restock he punch bowl as it becomes empty.

Alcohol Options

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For those who are still wanting to offer alcoholic beverages at their wedding, but do not want the expense of an open bar, there are many things that you can do. For example, you can only offer champagne when it comes time for the toasts. Another great idea is to only have the bar open during certain times of the reception.

You can also have a limit that your guests can consume from the bar. For example, you can give guests tickets that they can turn in for drinks or only allow alcohol to be served until a certain price is reached. Another option is to have signature drinks to choose from and if your guests want something different, they must pay for it themselves.

Conclusion

There are many options that couples can use to replace an open bar at a wedding. While many couples choose to have an open bar at their weddings, they are definitely not a requirement and you should never feel obligated to offer one to your guests. Instead, you should choose an option that fits with your budget and wedding style.

Don’t forget to check out all the great options that are available at Best for Bride. They offer a wide range of décor items as well as wedding attire for your special day.

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Whimsical Whispers: The Enchanting Allure of Romantic Garden Weddings!

One of the most romantic wedding styles that you can choose is a garden wedding. However, since they are outdoors, there are always additional things that you need to plan for over the normal wedding planning items.

However, with a simple guide, you will be able to plan your beautiful outdoor wedding and have the most spectacular wedding ever.

Consider the Flowers

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One of the best things about a garden wedding is the natural landscape that will be included in the wedding planning design. Usually, this will consist of tress, grass and flowers that are in season during the time of the wedding. The flowers are definitely something that you will need to consider because you may need to choose wedding colors that coordinate with them depending on how involved they are with the decorations.

The Weather

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Another issue that you will find with outdoor weddings is that the weather can easily mess up even the best laid plans. However, there are ways that you can plan for this as well. It is always a good idea to have a backup plan in case the weather is uncooperative. Another idea, however, is to have a tent ready so that the wedding can be held as planned. Having a large supply of fancy umbrellas can also be a helpful addition if rain is in the forecast.

Music

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Keep in mind that you will need to plan a location that the musicians can set up in order to play for the wedding. Even if you do not have a live band, you will need to have a flat and dry location for the DJ to set up. It is also best to have this area be covered so that the musical equipment is kept safe and guests are able to enjoy your selections.

Wedding Dress

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Another item you will need to consider is the dress you wear. While long dresses may be beautiful, they will also drag the ground. This means that there is a chance that mud, grass and other stains may appear on your dress. Instead, it is best to wear a dress that will not drag on the ground and become damaged and dirty.

Winter Weddings

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Do you think it’s too cold to have a winter garden wedding? Think again! Winter can make for a beautiful outdoor wedding complete with twinkling Christmas lights and a snow covered background. Of course, you will want to make sure that your guests are prepared for the cold. It may even be a good idea to have a tent with some space heaters available. However, if you are looking for a romantic and beautiful garden wedding, winter may be the perfect time to make it happen.

Best for Bride

If you are looking for everything you need to plan a garden wedding, you should look no further than Best for Bride. This store offers wedding dress, décor and attire for the wedding party. You will be able to find everything that you need here.