It's Not Too Late to Hire a Planner!

We are deep in Wedding Season and though many couples may have had their venue booked for 6 months or possible greater than a year before the date; it is not uncommon for couples to hire a Day of Coordinator within a month or two before their event.  "DIY" is a buzzword in the world of wedding planning, and it is an inspiring goal to completely plan and execute your wedding. However, when it gets closer to your event you may get burned out or realize that after all of your hard work planning you just want to be able to relax and enjoy your day.  That is where a Day of Coordinator comes in! As a Day of Coordinator we will organize a timeline for your day to make sure everything runs smoothly.  We meet with you to discuss the specific details of your event and attend your wedding rehearsal and will be the point person for vendors on your wedding day to ensure that everyone arrives on time and tha they are aware of the schedule.

Although we prefer to meet with you earlier than later to get started on your event, we understand that your schedule may have changed or has become more hectic leading up to your event.  There is nothing wrong with asking for help, even if it is just from friends or family members. We recommend writing down anything that you have asked friends or family members to do for you, giving step by step instructions or details of your vision.  One thing to keep in mind is that you don't want to ask too much of your friends or wedding party as you want them to be able to celebrate with you and not stress about getting everything done on time.

Along with Day of Coordination, The 530 Bride also offers Full Service Coordination and The "Finishing Touches" Package for all of your last minute To-Do Items.  Check out our services page or come visit our booth at the upcoming Chico Wedding Weekend for more details!

Display Your Wedding Keepsakes with A Shadow Box

Wedding Photography captures your big day, but what about physically preserving some of your most sentimental wedding items?  Shadowboxes are a great way to put some of your most cherished items on display.

If you plan to use your bouquet or other fresh flowers in your shadow box, check with your florist to see if they offer preservation services.

A DIY Shadowbox could be a great project to keep your creative juices flowing after the wedding, and help reduce some after wedding blues that some brides experience.  Consider making a set of shadow boxes to include your milestones as a couple, (honeymoon, family vacations, first home, birth of a child etc.) Shadow Boxes don't have to be large, you can mix and match the sizes and styles.

Happy Planning!

The Topper

Wedding Cakes have transformed from a fancy dessert to the focal point of the evening, (besides THE dress!) If you have seen shows like Cake Boss, or Cake Wars you know the design ideas are endless.  A cake topper is the finishing touch, accenting the cake design and even show a little flair of your personalities.  Here are a few different spins on the cake topper, which one fits your personality? 1. Traditional or Personalized "Wedding Couple" toppers Photos Courtesy of www.weddingstar.com

2. Floral - Fresh Flowers, Icing Floral Designs Photos Courtesy of www.marthastewartweddings.com

3. Paper Cake Toppers Photos Courtesy of www.eventsbychloe.com, and www.papermoss.com

4. Monogram Topper Photos Courtesy of www.weddingcuts.com and www.roxyheartvintage.com

5. Love Bird Topper Photo Courtesy of weddingwallpaper.net and bridalwave.tv

 

Happy Planning!

Don't Forget to Socialize with Your Guests!

One thing that you may not think about when you are planning a wedding, is actually planning time to spend with your guests.   On paper, your wedding might seem like a long day but in reality it will fly by!  Sit down with your planner and your fiance and do a mental walk through of your day, if you don't already have time budgeted to greet and mingle with your guests now is a good time to move some things around.  Afterall your guests are there to see you, and some of them may have traveled far or may have had to cancel other obligations so that they could attend.  Here are a few ways to help you get some face time with your guests. Receiving Line - According to the rules of etiquette, the receiving line should be formed at the reception following the ceremony or, according to other sources, immediately after the wedding ceremony before your guests leave for the reception. The order of the line is as follows: Mother of the Bride, Mother of the Groom, Bride, Groom, Maid of Honor and finally the bridesmaids. The most formal receiving line does not include the men of the bridal party (with the exception of the groom). Child attendants are also left out of this one. The order and makeup of the receiving line is acceptably open to change. Such exceptions include adding the groomsmen and fathers, adding children attendants or changing the order or the line.

If you choose to follow tradition, you'll want to decide whether to have the receiving line at the ceremony or reception site. When making your decision, consider the needs of your guests, the weather, the space required for the line and any other special circumstances. You won't want to be standing in the rain and neither will your guests. You also don't want to make your guests wait around for too long standing in line, so consider ways to make the process efficient and comfortable for everyone.

Your Options   The receiving line does play a crucial role in your wedding celebration. Standing in a receiving line allows you to meet your new family and greet each guest personally.  The flip side of that is your guests may not necessarily enjoy standing in line, so be conscious of their comfort by limiting the time you spend with each guest and accommode elderly guests by visiting them at their seats or seeing them first.  Greeting the guests is a necessary part of your evening, it is up to you to decide how traditional or creative you would like to be.

Meet and Greet - If you opt for First Look Photography, (Bride and Groom Portraits before the Ceremony) you can get your wedding party, bride and groom, and even some family photos done before the ceremony starts.  Then you can finish up your photos after the ceremony and enjoy your cocktail hour with your guests.

Pass Out Plates  - Passing out the dinner plates to your guests is an alternative to the receiving line, as guests are usually released by table so that means your guests won't be standing in line longer than necessary.  This might also make it a little more comfortable for you and your fiance so that you aren't overwhelmed by so many people at once.

Make Your Rounds - Mingle with your guests by visiting each table, allow guests to get a snapshot with you or have your photographer or videographer accompany you to the tables to catch the kodak moments!  If you want to spice up this option you can have the DJ announce at the start of your dinner that you have placed well-wishes, or advice cards at their tables for them to fill out for the couple.  After Dinner, you can make your way around the room and collect the cards in a card box or bag.

Photobooth - If you rented a photobooth or perhaps made your own photobooth set-up, invite your guests by table to take a picture with you.

Snowball Dance - If visiting each table or greeting guests in a line doesn't appeal to you, consider socializing on the dance floor by starting a snowball dance.  You can mix it up by thinking of creative ways to switch partners such as having the DJ ask you to dance with someone older or younger than you, someone you haven't met yet etc.

Hand out treats/Favors or Parting Gifts - Handing out favors or late night snacks is another way to mingle, or to take another opportunity to visit with guests before they get ready to head home.  It is another chance to catch anyone that you missed earlier in the evening, and hopefully to get to chat a little more with the relatives you haven't gotten to see for awhile or those who you are meeting for the first time.

There are surely pros and cons to each of these options, but the point is that you can truly be creative and find your own personal way to connect with your guests at your wedding.  The memory of this day will live on, so make the most of it!

Say 'I Do' Unconventionally!

Who says your wedding guests have to know they are going to a wedding?  Recently, we have seen a spike in Surprise Weddings and we think it is trend that could stick around.  It is perfect for the couple who has gone around and around about where they would want to have their wedding, how much they want to spend, and those who aren't particularly fond of the traditional wedding process. How does one plan a surprise wedding?  Well first thing is first, ..Location!  If you happen to have a spacious home or a large backyard, or know someone who would be willing to host in your honor than you are in luck.  Guests probably won't question a backyard event, so you could use some alternative occasions like an Engagement Party, a Summer Lau, Graduation, or Tri-Tip Cook-off to use as the decoy reason for gathering.  Second, decide who you want to let in on the surprise.  You can choose to tell your parents, maid of honor, best man or whom ever you would like as long as they can keep a secret!  Besides, you will need some helpers to pull this off!

If you do not have the space available, contact some of the local venues for information on the amenities and pricing.  You will need to know your approximate guest count, and a potential date.  Consider asking the venue if they offer lower rates for weekdays compared to Saturday and Sunday rates.

We know a surprise wedding is not for everyone. For brides who have dreamed of their wedding day for years, a more traditional wedding with a set date and invitations may be more appropriate! However, if the thought of a big fancy wedding stresses you out, you may feel relieved by knowing that your guests are going to be blown away by the surprise and it will be a fun and memorable wedding for all!  You can still have a lot of the same elements of a traditional wedding like the bouquet toss, and first dance.  The best part is that it is up to you!

Some of the perks of a surprise wedding are a lower overall budget because you won't have a lot of the formalities such as the cost of invitations & postage, venue (if you are having a backyard event), and you may end up with a smaller guest list which will greatly reduce your expenses.  The biggest perk is getting to be creative, and coming up with a plan on how to carry out your scheme and keeping it a secret until the big reveal!

Want to read more about Surprise Weddings?  Here are some related posts: Mark Zuckerberg and Priscilla - Surprise Wedding 100 Layer Cake: Marisa + John - Surprise Wedding Surprise..We Got Married! Rebecca & Damien - Suprise Wedding

Your Name Doesn’t Have To Be Your Something Old

For many engaged couples, the prospect of sharing the same last name is joyous. However, for many women, changing their name is accompanied by a feeling of loss, of who they once were, and of their family heritage. Some women may even feel undervalued by the unequal treatment of only her changing her name. While the majority of brides still take the more traditional route and acquire their groom’s last name, more modern women keep their family surname, or hyphenate with their new hubby, a movement started during Women’s Lib. Some progressive husbands even change their name to hyphenate alongside their wife. But did you know that you have more options than your parents did?

CA’s name change law Laws change per state, but in California we have what’s called The Name Equality Act of 2007 (AB 102, Chapter 567, Statutes of 2007), and it’s opened up a world of name possibilities to those filing for marriage and domestic partnerships. Before it was passed, multiple couples had spoken out against the state for having archaic laws that promoted gender discrimination when it came to name changes, even if the man’s intention was as noble as wanting his wife’s family name to continue, despite having no brothers. Now a couple can change one or both of their middle and/or surnames, using any of their last names that are current, or from birth.

How it works You have the option of both taking his name *or* her name, hyphenating in either order, swapping names, or, for those looking for a truly unique moniker, combining your names in a sort of word scramble with segments of two or more letters, and arranging them in any way you find pleasing for your new last name. Middle names can stay untouched, be replaced by the old last name, or be hyphenated with the old last name. My husband and I opted for the “word scramble”, and after much time, effort, creativity, and names like Hartstetter, Lear, Ellis, and Muarette, our final choice was Arelleis.

Need a hand? If all these options give you too much of a headache, you can always turn to a Name Consultant. While many couples are turning to the opinions of friends and family, even creating online survey sites for them to visit, some hire a professional to layout all their options for them. The 530 Bride offers Name Change Consulting, along with other Wedding Planning services, for which we create a customized list of all possible names and initials for a couple.

Whatever reasons you have for choosing any direction with names for your new life together, just remember to do it in the name of love.

Posted by Kendall Arelleis, Event Coordinator with The 530 Bride

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For further reading on Name Changing: More Men Taking Wives' Last Names To Be Safe, Call the Bride by Her First Name

Not So Traditional? Not To Worry!

Do you consider yourself a non-traditional couple?  If so, you may be questioning if you really need to follow all of the wedding customs like wearing a veil, not seeing each other before the wedding, or wearing boutonnieres and corsages.  While it is completely up to you if you decide to skip these traditions, you might be suprised how these types of details makes it "feel" like a wedding.  Where do these traditions come from anyway? Boutonnieres Traditionally, the flower was placed in the button hole of the man’s suit or tuxedo. However, these days, most bouts are pinned directly to the man’s lapel, a long standing trend that aging French women still scoff at. Alternatives: Pocket Sqaures, non-floral boutonnieres such as feathers, fabric, twine etc.   http://www.bluebouquet.com/2009/02/27/boutonnieres-and-weddings-the-history-and-the-trends/ Bridal Bouquet The bridal bouquet today is anything from lilies to roses or orchids or a combination or many beautiful exotic or ordinary flowers.  The use of flowers in a bridal bouquet started off as a way to symbolize fertility and everlasting love.  Before flowers, many brides carried bouquet of garlic, herbs and grain to ward off evil spirits.

Ceremony Seating, Why on the Left? Have you ever wondered why the bride’s family is seated on the left side of the church and the groom’s side is seated on the right? The tradition stems from medieval times when men wore swords on their right side. It is said they needed that side free in order to draw their sword and protect his bride. Alternative: Open seating for guests to sit where they please, except for reserved seating.

 

The Veil The Tradition: The introduction of the veil came into  Europe during the time of the Crusades.  In early weddings the bride was  bargained for through her father. Covered in a veil, she was revealed  to her husband after the ceremony.  Brides also wore orange blossom  wreaths in the hair on top of the veil, which is where the tiara could  have originated from.  Veils were used as a symbol of virginity and  purity for brides given to their mates. http://rosiewedding.com/2011/01/31/wedding-veils-and-what-they-represent/ Alternative: If the idea of wearing a veil doesn't appeal to you, consider an alternative such as not covering your face, or skipping one altogether.  Photo Courtesy of http://www.lovemydress.net/blog/2011/07/1940s-bridesmaids-dresses-1940s-wedding-dress.html

Happy Planning! ___________________________________________________________

Additional Resources for Non-Traditional Weddings: Non-Traditional Wedding Venues The Nontraditional Wedding

When It Is Time For The Bustle, Be Prepared!

After you have said "I'Do," that beautiful train on your dress may become very inconvenient for walking throughout your reception or even being able to be seated for dinner.  Make sure that your wedding coordinator and at least two people in your wedding party are comfortable bustling your gown.  I have seen several brides attempt to explain to someone else how they would like their gown bustled, but it is often difficult to explain when you most likely can't see or reach the bustle loops while in your gown. Having two or more bridesmaids or family members who have been shown by you or the bridal salon how to properly bustle the gown, will save you time and energy during your reception.  You may want to practice, as well as bring a photo of what the dress should look like when bustled.  Depending on the weight of the train itself, bustling it incorrectly could damage the gown.

If you haven't selected your gown yet, make sure to ask the bridal salon to show you the different options and styles for bustling your top three to five gowns.  Click here to see some examples of bustles.  If possible, have your wedding planner, bridesmaid or family member with you at your final fitting so that you can practice with the bridal consultant there to assist you if needed.  I also recommend to make sure you have a small sewing kit in your "emergency kit" just in case your gown gets stepped on and pulls out your bustle.  You may be able to pin it, or reinforce the loops and buttons.

Happy Planning!

Find us on WeddingWire.com

If you are a bride (or groom) who likes to read reviews on vendors, see photos of their products and services online then WeddingWire.com could come in handy.  You can create a free wedding website, communicate with other brides in the forum message boards and use some of the other popular features like guest list tracking, budgeting, and checklists to help you stay organized. We recently joined WeddingWire and would love if you stopped by to check out our profile!  If we coordinated your event, or helped lead you in the right direction feel free to stop by and write a review.  We appreciate your feedback!

Looking for Downloadable (Free) DIY Stationary?

If you are a DIY bride and would like to find printable stationary resources, check out these links!  Multiple themes and color palettes to choose from, so if you are at the beginning of your planning stages you may find inspiration for theme ideas.  Please make sure to read the terms of use for the templates.  Enjoy! Photo Courtesy of BetsyWhite.com Photo Courtesy of BetsyWhite.com (Paper Bag Favors)

Betsy White.com Garlands, Paper Bag Favors, Invitations Click Here to Visit Flights of Fancy

Stylist.com DIY Wedding Ideas: 13 Free Printable Favors Click Here to Visit Stylist.com

Love & Lavendar Offering Over 20 Invitation Suites to Choose From! Click Here to Visit Love & Lavendar

iDIY Design Goodies Click Here to Visit iDIY

Eat Drink Chic Gorgeous Vintage Label Download Click Here to Visit Eat Drink Chic

Flights of Fancy Save The Date, Invites,  Favors & Thank You Cards Click Here to Visit Flights of Fancy

Sweet Favor Trends

Wedding favors are a fun way to accent your wedding, and to elaborate on your theme.  Trinkets or Treats, it is up to you! Here are some sweet ideas: Cotton Candy Favors http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/227149/spinning-magic Photo Courtesy of Martha Stewart Weddings

These little clouds of sugary goodness are sure to be a favorite among your guests, and are a playful way to incorporate your wedding colors.  http://bestfriendsforfrosting.com/2011/09/diy-how-to-make-a-cotton-candy-stand/ Photo Courtesy of BestFriendsforFrosting.com

You can mix and match, and you can definitely find a creative way to display the favors such as a cotton candy station or wrap them up for each place setting.  Read more

Rock Candy Favors Rock Candy Photo Courtesy of Elizabeth Ane Designs

Colorful and eye-catching, rock candy favors are a fun twist to the traditional candy favors.  Read more

 Cake Pops Cake Pop Wedding Favors Photo Courtesy of Langham Huntington Weddings Cake pops have made their way into the wedding scene by storm, and are sought after by many brides.  If your budget allows, these decorative balls of yummy are perfect for the modern wedding.  Read more

Honey Photo Courtesy of The Coterie Blog Photo Courtesy of EvenTagious

Photo Courtesy of 100 Layer Cake

Honey is a versatile option, as you can use jars or sticks to make DIY Favors, or purchase from your local farmers.  This idea would be a great way to elaborate an organic or eco-friendly wedding theme. 

Stay tuned for more fun ideas!

To Elope or Not To Elope?

Weddings are about two people making the decision to commit to one another and spend the rest of their lives together.  However, weddings often become an event where you are aiming to please everyone which is impossible.  If things are getting too complicated, and you feel like you just want the wedding to be about the two of you; eloping might be the best option for you.  When couples elope they can have a romantic wedding ceremony, and also have a honeymoon all in the same trip!  No worries of favors, centerpieces, and rentals; just an intimate ceremony.  Some choose the city hall or locations like Tahoe, or Vegas to tie the knot but there are endless options.  Just make sure to plan on telling your friends and family either before or immediately following to avoid hurting anyones feelings. 

Some things to consider before you make your final decision:

Family If it's your first wedding, or your parents have been talking about the day they will get to see you walk down the aisle you might want to put some extra thought into your decision.  If you are worried that your family will not be receptive to the idea, consider sitting them down and telling them about your concerns with having a traditional wedding.  If you can come up with ideas on how to keep it low-key and more affordable, such as cutting the guest list or throwing a backyard bash you might find a happy medium.  Have you always thought of your grandparents being there on your big day, or having your darling nieces as your flower girls? Eloping might not be for you. 

Budget A wedding budget can take on a life of it's own if you don't stay organized, as the little things add up.  You will have to budget for things like cutlery, napkins & linens, security and transporation in some cases.  In order to lower your overall budget, you can keep your guest list in check or even make cuts if needed.  When you elope, you can choose affordable wedding packages that are designed to be budget friendly.  Packages often include an on-site coordinator, flowers, ceremony officiant, music, basic photography package, sweetheart cake and champagne.  Hotels offer honeymoon suites that are designed to celebrate your exciting occasion. 

Destination Envisioning somewhere tropical for your big day, but aren't sure that your guests can follow?  If you start your planning early, you can find packages that include a certain number of guests.  You can then send out invitations to close friends and family members that you would like to come if they can.  This lets them know that you would love to share your big day with them, if they can make it but you aren't pressuring them. 

If you decide that eloping is the best option for you, consider allowing your family or friends put together a casual reception to celebrate your union.  This is a great time to share your photos or videography from your special ceremony.  If you would like to stay local, contact a wedding officiant to inquire of any nearby locations that are available for small ceremonies. 

Here are a few destination wedding links to help you get started: Eloping Etiquette

Top Destination Locations in the US

Best Destination Weddings

Let's Run Off 

 

Announce Your Anniversary On The 530 Bride

A simple 'I love you' means more than money." – Frank Sinatra

When a couple gets engaged, they are instantly introduced to the world of planning a wedding.  It is easy to understand how for the next few months or even years in some cases, they will spend the majority of their time talking about the big day, and making decisons about all of the details.  Here on The530Bride  we admit to always having weddings on the brain too, It is important to recognize what comes after a wedding..Marriage!

Newly married?  The first year of marriage can be a tough one, so don't feel silly for wanting to tell the world about your occasion.  Couples that have been together for 10, 20, or 30 years would probably agree that year one was memorable in a lot of ways.  During this time together you will learn a lot about each other but even more about yourselves!

We invite you to share your wedding anniversary news with us, such as a photo and your anniversary date or how many years you have been together.  Learned a thing or two about what it takes to have a strong marriage? Share your tips and advice with others if you wish!  You can write us at features@the530bride.com.

 

We Have A New Look!

As you can see there have been some changes around here at The 530 Bride, we have been working away to get all of the kinks out from our switch and we appreciate all of your patience.  We hope you like the new layout, and we hope to always keep improving the site so that we can continue being a helpful resource for all of your planning needs.  Like always, we welcome you to suggest topics, ask questions and share your wedding planning inspiration with us and our readers.  If you would like to contact us, you can email us at  info@the530bride.com or give us a call at (530) 988-8344. Happy Planning!

Mark Your Calendars: Chico Wedding Weekend

Come visit The 530 Bride at The Chico Wedding Weekend! Are you just getting started in your wedding planning process? Or perhaps you need to find the right vendor to put the finishing touches into your event? Mark your calendars!

Reposted from Weddings North Valley:

Chico Wedding Weekend

Saturday and Sunday, August 18-19, 2012 •  11:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Neighborhood Church

2801 Notre Dame Boulevard •  Chico, CA 95928

Indulge

Top Wedding Exhibitors in their "storefronts" filled with inspiration for your wedding

  • Yummy food, cake and confections
  • Delightful musical entertainment
  • Hot, new wedding fashion trends
  • Creative and innovative ideas for your wedding

Experience

  • Get to know the people you want to hire for your wedding
  • See their creativity and know-how
  • Discover many of the services right on the spot during the show
  • “After Hours Rendezvous” at STUDIOwed from 3-5PM

Explore

STUDIOwed

10:30 AM - 5:00 PM

    • Enjoy “cool” mocktails served by your personal mixologists from JB’s Beverage & Bar Service
    • Pick up your copy of the “Little Black Book”
    • Brides-to-Be get your Sash to wear
    • 3 – 5 PM: Reserve a space for the After Hours Rendezvous where engaged couples meet TOP wedding experts face-to-face in a relaxed atmosphere
    • Get all the FAQs from a Team Bride member
    • Learn about BRIDGING THE GAP and how you can support their work throughout the world
TICKETS ARE $10 AT THE DOOR AND $7.50 ONLINE

Click Here to Purchase Tickets.