Wednesday, 3 June 2015

THE WORST WEDDING GUEST EVER



Invite yourself. The rules are simple. If you didn't get an invite, you're not invited. It is that simple. This includes giving yourself a plus-one when the invitation didn't specifically state that you're allowed one. Don't ask for an invite, it is rude and puts the bride and groom in an awkward position. If you have to ask, the answer is no.

Don't RSVP. If an invite calls for an RSVP and you do not, then the couple isn't sure whether you'll attend or not, and not attending wastes someone else's opportunity who would have been invited in your place. If someone extends an invite to you, respond and in good time.

Wear something inappropriate. Like white, when you're not the bride, or showing up in your favorite shirt from your college years. Weddings are black tie affairs unless otherwise stated.

Talk smack. Complaining about unnecessary things, asking useless questions and guessing about how much the wedding cost, asking for special treatment and sulking when you don't get your way to any and everyone, comparing with other weddings you've attended, are all examples of talking smack. Don't do it!!

Don't bring a gift. It is wedding etiquette 101 to bring a gift when invited to a wedding. It doesn't have to be elaborate or expensive, gifts are a polite way to wish the couple well. This is one area where the thought really counts.

We all have experiences with worst wedding guests, (some of us are guilty of this), the list is endless, but the objective is to be cordial and respectful of someone else's day.

Friday, 29 May 2015

WEDDING SPARKLERS

Adding sparklers to your most special moments can make the photos stand out in your scrapbook. Classic moments like the first kiss or first dance are beautifully enhanced with your guests using wedding sparklers in the background. You can even use sparklers to write words or shapes in the air such as your wedding date, the word “love”, or hearts. - See more at: http://weddingdaysparklers.com/#sthash.iCQ0FFsU.dpuf
Adding sparklers to your most special moments can make the photos stand out in your scrapbook. Classic moments like the first kiss or first dance are beautifully enhanced with your guests using wedding sparklers in the background. You can even use sparklers to write words or shapes in the air such as your wedding date, the word “love”, or hearts. - See more at: http://weddingdaysparklers.com/#sthash.iCQ0FFsU.dpuf

Adding sparklers to your most special moments can make the photos stand out in your scrapbook. Classic moments like the first kiss or first dance are beautifully enhanced with your guests using wedding sparklers in the background. You can even use sparklers to write words or shapes in the air such as your wedding date, the word “love”, or hearts. - See more at: http://weddingdaysparklers.com/#sthash.iCQ0FFsU.dpuf
 Wedding sparklers are a wonderful way to make your wedding sparkle! There are many great uses for wedding sparklers, but the most popular way is to replace the traditional birdseed (which people substitute with rice) that is thrown in as the newlyweds make their hasty exit.



 The wedding sparklers add a very dramatic effect, and it really comes through nicely in the pictures. Additionally, many couples mix their wedding sparklers in with the flowers of their centerpieces so that the sparklers become a decoration as well. This is a great way to save some budget for other parts of your wedding while at the same time giving your guests something really enjoyable within an arm’s reach.





Adding sparklers to your most special moments can make the photos stand out in your scrapbook. Classic moments like the first kiss or first dance are beautifully enhanced with your guests using wedding sparklers in the background. You can even use sparklers to write words or shapes in the air such as your wedding date, the word “love”, or hearts. 



Adding sparklers to your most special moments can make the photos stand out in your scrapbook. Classic moments like the first kiss or first dance are beautifully enhanced with your guests using wedding sparklers in the background. You can even use sparklers to write words or shapes in the air such as your wedding date, the word “love”, or hearts. - See more at: http://weddingdaysparklers.com/#sthash.iCQ0FFsU.dpuf
Whether you’re planning a wedding for 20 people or 200 people, wedding sparklers are one of the cheapest ways to give your guests a great experience.
Adding sparklers to your most special moments can make the photos stand out in your scrapbook. Classic moments like the first kiss or first dance are beautifully enhanced with your guests using wedding sparklers in the background. You can even use sparklers to write words or shapes in the air such as your wedding date, the word “love”, or hearts. - See more at: http://weddingdaysparklers.com/#sthash.iCQ0FFsU.dpuf
Adding sparklers to your most special moments can make the photos stand out in your scrapbook. Classic moments like the first kiss or first dance are beautifully enhanced with your guests using wedding sparklers in the background. You can even use sparklers to write words or shapes in the air such as your wedding date, the word “love”, or hearts. - See more at: http://weddingdaysparklers.com/#sthash.iCQ0FFsU.dpuf

Monday, 18 May 2015

THINGS NO ONE WILL TELL YOU AS A BRIDE

Wedding dresses are very hot. Not in that sexy way but the hot I refer to is temperature hot. To make it bulky, lots of fabric is used and this means that you'll be much warmer than you normally are. Silk, taffeta and lace are fabrics that retain body heat.  Other than just feeling warm, it can lead to excessive sweating between your legs which can lead to painful chaffing.

This is not the way you are going to want to start your honeymoon! The secret someone shared with me is to use a light coating of baby powder to cover your inner thighs BEFORE putting on your gown. This is key. You don't want to try doing this after the gown is on. Better than baby powder is antiperspirant, body glide or anti chaffing gel, whatever product is easily available to you.


Stay hydrated.  This goes hand in hand with the wedding dresses are hot point.  It’s a tricky situation. The lack of drinking fluids in combination with the very hot dresses, can quickly lead to finding yourself extremely dehydrated.  Along with all the activity of the day, this can lead brides to pass out.  So in the end, ask yourself, which is more embarrassing, having to use the rest rooms a few times with your wonderful bridesmaids assisting you, or passing out at your own wedding.  I’m guessing the latter.  To avoid this problem try to remember to drink a fair amount of water while you are getting ready in the morning and during the reception. 





Consult your photographer when creating your schedule for the day. To get all the shots you want, enough time needs to be allotted for set up.  Certain shots will only work at certain times of the day.  This is all helpful information your photographer can provide you if you talk to them in advance.




Tone your arms and back.  Just about every bride I know tries to get into better shape before her wedding so she can look her best on her big day.  Unfortunately most of us don’t have tons of time to hit the gym so it’s important to know where you are going the get the most bang for your limited exercise time buck.  Most wedding dresses combined with good shape-wear hide our least favorite parts of our bodies, but they do put our arms and back on display. Work out videos to tone these areas are easily available on you tube.


Bring a bridal emergency kit with you.  On the day of your wedding, you want everything to go right.  Inevitably though, something goes awry.  That’s why you should bring a bridal first aid kit with you that has everything and anything you could possibly need on your wedding day. Here's a sample kit I got on pinterest.

 
Look at each other during your ceremony, NOT your officiant: Couples almost always make this mistake.  Remember you are marrying each other, NOT your officiant. So when you say your vows, you should look lovingly at each other instead of awkwardly mouthing them to the officiant. 

Look at each other as you recess out: To be sure to get a romantic shot as you leave your wedding ceremony as newlyweds be sure to remember to look at each other!!

Read helpful blogs: If you found this post helpful email the link to your friends when they get engaged or if they are bridesmaids in a wedding.

Thursday, 14 May 2015

LUPITA'S STYLE

Lupita looked amazing with a bright purple lip. Purple is my absolute favorite color for any day and it comes in a variety of shades to choose from.

Her makeup was done by Nick Barose using Lancome products. Opt for MAC, black opal, sleek, mary kay or LA colors brands more locally available to get the same look.

Her makeup was flawless against her green, custom Gucci dress. On Instagram, she said her hair was inspired by “Uganda’s women.” It was styled by Vernon François.

Maybe we should go through Uganda's look books for more inspired choices...

Monday, 11 May 2015

NAIL POLISH TIPS





First and foremost, sheer pink nails are timeless and never go out of style.  Pale colors flatter. Other shades include blues and greens (pale), pale peach and beige. I recommend two or three coats. I love how pure and low-key these shades are. 


The darker your skin tone, the wider variety of colors you can wear, which means playtime for you. For a bold nail look, try a fun metallic nail polish. Metallic colors add beautiful contrast to deeper skin tones.
 

I love neon on most skin tones, but on darker skin tones it's eye-catching and fun. Nude nail polish much like nude lipstick can be tricky territory when it comes to any skin tone. Try making it more opaque, to give the color more life and depth.
 















Monday, 4 May 2015

MAKE UP TIPS

Plastic spoon: Use a plastic spoon to easily apply mascara on your bottom lashes without getting any on the skin under your eyes. It also helps you to accomplish a much thicker coat.




Blush For Your Face Type: The way you apply your blush can accentuate your best features and also soften those that are perhaps too prominent.



Eye Highlights: Your lighter colors (whites, creams, and pearls) should be applied in the inner corners, the middle of the eye, and just under your brow bone. Apply your lightest colors first, and then move on to your darker shades.















Lipstick Ready: Use a baby toothbrush to exfoliate your lips. To really get the job done, you can make a homemade lip exfoliate with sugar and coconut oil, or easier but not as effective, cover your lips in lip balm or petroleum jelly before scrubbing.

Make Eyes Appear Bigger: If you don’t already own a white pencil, invest in one now just for this simple trick! Instead of lining your water line with dark eyeliner, use a white pencil to create the illusion of a bigger eye.



Make It Last: After your lipstick is applied, hold a tissue over your lips and apply powder over the tissue. This creates a matte look that lasts much longer.



Friday, 17 April 2015

A WEDDING THAT'S TOTALLY YOU

Before choosing your wedding gown or your wedding music or even begin sampling cakes, look at the big picture and decide on the vibe you want to set on your day. Think about the size of wedding you want to have, is it indoors or outdoors? destination or home, and the time of the year whether in the colder season or warmer.

Google, pinterest, bridal magazines and fairs are your best friends now. Have an inspiration board to keep you organized. Develop an idea book and  go wild with your thoughts- you can always narrow things down as you go along.

How fancy or casual you go will determine  the formality of the event. Beach weddings are informal and laid back whereas a ballroom may require a more classic and elegant wedding.Which setting speaks of your personality? this will be evident in your choice of invites and the favors you give your guests in appreciation.

Narrow in on your style by deciding on a theme. Your theme can be dated, that is from a particular era,  hobby or place to your culture.If you and your fiance have different ideas, find a compromise. Don't load up on too many ideas as this may look uncoordinated.

Color is the unifying theme in all these elements. The easiest way to make all of your wedding elements come together is to stick with one main color and an accent color, or two equally prominent complementary colors for a bright contrast. Adding neutral or metallic accents will make your palette robust.




Finally, do not forget the vibe. Remember the theme obviously affects the look of your wedding, but it can also set the tone. You want your personalities to shine through, which is what ultimately makes your wedding stand out and feel special.

Friday, 10 April 2015

WINTER WEDDING WONDERLAND

The cold season is upon us, so why not use it as an inspiration for your wedding? When thinking of your ceremony, have the ring bearer carry a soft flowered  pillow as light as snow down the aisle for that wintery feeling and adorn your chairs with holiday inspired covers. When you think cold, you think holidays like christmas, new year's hence draw inspiration from these themes.

Colorless crystals mixed with white flowers also re-enact the theme. Keep the flower girls cozy with shoulder wraps and warm boots and incorporating elbow-length gloves for your bride's maids. Consider your guests by choosing an indoor venue and keeping it warm and cozy with a fire place. To keep warm, why not go for a gorgeous winter white coat as the perfect accessory for your gown.

 Go bold with your make up, red lips are warm and romantic for cold seasons. For the photo shoot, add umbrellas that will help capture the rainy theme and use the weather as a backdrop. Turn your reception space into a magical snow-covered forest with dry plants in neutral and green.You can also use holiday inspired stationary in your theme colors.


Wednesday, 1 April 2015

TIP FOR THE DAY

Many wedding vendors book up very far in advance. Especially the highly sought-after photographers, florists, etc. So book your most important vendors as soon as possible after your engagement.

Engage the services of a professional wedding planner from the onset to make sure all your needs will be prioritized and there are no unwanted surprises.
 

Monday, 16 March 2015

WEDDING TRENDS 2015 (RELOADED)

Wild west weddings; The theme is western with personalized details inspired by ranches. The vibe is fun and relaxed. Think cowhide rugs and wildflower bouquets mixed in with leather elements to contrast the soft and romantic wedding details. Capture this look in a long sleeved wedding dress.
Use a music festival inspired theme for your wedding like Blankets and Wine ideal for a backyard or open field setting. Think cocktail hour lounges and picnic-style dining. Go with bright, festive yet earthy tones, hand-drawn maps with your invitations and fun,  wording on your invites (instead of "accept" write "you in?") to really drive home your theme. Intentionally mismatched bridesmaid dresses will keep the look effortless and easy.

 Bridal jumpsuits and statement making separates; Wedding dress designs are more playful and dressed down.Designers are coming up with menswear inspired styles that give the traditional bridal look a new edge that's celebrity inspired.

Unexpected wedding venues; More couples are looking at unexpected spots for their wedding venue, like private estates, museums and even parks. The best part about a unique venue choice is you don't have to go overboard on all the décor - you can let the space speak for itself.

Royal color palettes:
MARSALAPANTONE 18-1438
Marsala enriches our mind, body and soul, exuding confidence and stability. Marsala is a subtly seductive shade, one that draws us in
to its embracing warmth.

Leatrice Eiseman Executive Director, Pantone Color Institute

Marsala set the tone for 2015's wedding hues. It's a rich wine red that's sophisticated, stylish and versatile. Pair marsala with dusty blue for a pretty, romantic feel while a rose gold and marsala palette is rich and glamorous.

The Third Dress; Why go for one, when you can have three? Most brides opt for the second dress for the reception, but now most fashion forward brides are choosing three different gowns for each part of the day. It sounds like a lot, but for some brides who just can't decide, this is a fun trend to try.


Wednesday, 11 March 2015

THE RECEPTION: TO HAVE OR NOT TO HAVE


If your budget is small, tight, meager, or modest and you're trying your best not to involve a committee, you need to be extremely realistic about what's doable. Some of the things that are not, for example is inviting 500 people to your 200K wedding. You want to invite everyone you know but realistically? No bueno, it's not happening. Think small, think tailored, think unique.

So, do you really need to have a reception on a tight budget of say 200K? It is important to realize that receptions are not compulsory. It costs money to feed people and there are no cops or matrimonial gods who are going to hunt you down if a reception is not in your cards. That said, let's get a bit more realistic.

After your wedding ceremony you can have a 'receiving reception' in the same venue, where you and your new spouse meet and greet your guests. A truly "cake and refreshments" affair, where wedding cake and refreshments are on the menu and the time commitment is short (under 2  hours). Or you can opt for bitings and refreshments to suit your budget.

The reception is the one part of the budget which takes the biggest hit and it is to celebrate your marriage. Most people are happy to just share in the day with you, they should be content with whatever you can comfortably offer.

Thursday, 5 March 2015

REALITYCHECK

Don’t allow the pressure of creating the “perfect wedding” to keep you from focusing on what really matters. Weddings are a time for celebration, don't lose focus. Engagements on their own are a period to prepare for the expected role changes, don't spend this time arguing and fighting about budgets such that when you do start living together seeds of animosity have already been sown.

Listen to each other, consult and make sure decisions are mutual. Take this time to work on both your communication skills, practice compromise and take time to learn a lot about how your partner handles stress- this no doubt is your mirror into how difficult issues will be handled in your household.

Marriages are sacred, remember they involve making a covenant hence do not forget the spiritual aspect in your walk down 'I DO'. Take advantage of couple's counseling, anything that will draw you closer to your partner spiritually should be taken advantage of.

Do not be too focused on the material- dress, shoes, make up, etc and neglect this marriage you are seeking to build. You could also find a married couple to mentor you or read some of the great marriage books available.

Do yourself a favor, focus on your fiancee and who you want to be in the marriage, and plan more than a wedding day—plan to build a marriage.

Tuesday, 3 March 2015

THE 'TMT' SYNDROME

"TMT" for too much time. I've met a number of brides getting married later in the year and though it might not be next month; August or December isn't too far off in the wedding planning calendar. This is the time when you lock down your reception venue and start looking at booking churches. There is such a thing as peak months in the wedding calendar, when everyone decides it is their ideal month to say I do hence take advantage of all this time you have.

April, August and December are peak months even for hotels so if you're considering hotel venues, take advantage and book early. Considering hiring a planner? then do so now to give her time to come up with convenient, workable timelines.

Venue selection does not only depend on whether you have the resources hence find out early if the venue you have in mind can accommodate your vision for the day. Enjoying your day also means having a great ride in the wedding planning process. Forget last minute panic and invest your time well picking, choosing and sampling what you want.