With This Ring

Choosing Your Wedding Rings

So you are engaged and you can finally go longer than 5 minutes without staring at your shiny new ring, but it is time to think about your wedding bands.  Do you plan to pick out your husband's band on your own, or go together? What type of metal or style would he like, as there are more options than one might think!  If your engagement ring came as a set with a matching band then you are all set other than deciding if you want to solder your rings together or not.  If your engagement ring was not part of a set, you can check with your jeweler to see if there is a matching band or decide if you may want to have a band custom made.

There is also a trend of just wearing a band rather than an engagement ring and wedding band, which is a nice option for women who work with their hands a lot and want to keep things more simple.  { Image courtesy of Brides.com } Of course, you could choose not to solder your wedding ring and engagement ring, wearing both or just one or the other if you would like.

Now when it comes time to choose your groom's band there are some things to consider: - Budget - Lifestyle (Type of work, if rough on hands will need a stronger metal) - Metal Type: (Gold, Silver, Platinum, Tungsten Carbide, Tungsten & Palladium) - Style, men's bands have evolved into some very stylish options!

See the breakdown on the pros and cons of each metal type, courtesy of Larson Jewelers. What is your groom's style?

Just think,soon you will be exchanging rings at the altar! ~Happy Planning~

Wedding Planning Tip: Wedding Day Photography

When you meet with your wedding photographer, make sure to discuss what is included in your wedding photography package.  From how many hours are included, if second shooters or assistants will be used, what the turnaround time will be for your photos etc.  Haven't found your wedding photographer yet? Use this handy planning sheet provided by Martha Stewart Weddings for your consultations!

Your photographer will likely recommend meeting at your wedding venue to walk through and cover some of the logistics for your wedding day.  You will want to know where you plan on having the ceremony, where you are walking down the aisle from and how long the ceremony will be (including any special readings or traditions) so that the photographer can gauge how much lighting/time will be needed and also where the best spot to shoot from will be.

Before your walk through your venue with your photographer, you may want to consider going to your venue at the time you believe you would like the festivities to begin so that you can observe the lighting.  If the sun is already going down, you may want to start earlier so that you don't miss out on optimal lighting for your photos.

To better estimate the time of sunset for your wedding date, you can look up your location and the date online at websites such as this one: http://www.timeanddate.com/astronomy/usa/chico

Happy Planning!

Related Posts: Planning Engagement Session Photos

**** Image courtesy of http://www.wedpix.com/articles/011/graphics/brian-tsai-working.jpg

Is Your Wedding Right Around the Corner?

Recently, I received an inquiry from a couple who will be getting married in just a few short weeks, and were starting to feel the pressure of getting everything together for their event.  The bride thought it was too late to find assistance, and the groom just wanted to make sure the wedding was everything his bride to be dreamed about.

I reassured the couple that it is never too late to get organized and work out the details for their big day. As a wedding planner I work with couples with various needs when it comes to their wedding day, some need a Day of Coordinator to handle the overall logistics and timeline of their day while others need assistance with their wedding from start to finish.

If you (or someone you know) are only months or weeks away from your wedding day, and find that you would like to have a coordinator help put all of the final details together please give me a call! In addition to your complimentary consultation, you will also receive a free toolkit to help you organize all of your information.

~Happy Planning~

Wedding Planning Tip: Draping & Lighting

If you have attended events at a local venue several times, you know what to expect when you walk in and in your mind the venue will always look the same aside from table decorations.  What if I said that your venue could be completely transformed by using elements like fabric draping and uplighting?  These elements will add a touch of personality and flair to your event, making it stand out from other events that guests have attended there. Adding decor elements such as draping and lighting gives your event a personal touch and will stand out in your photos. Before you meet with your decor vendor, discuss the limitations of your venue space with your wedding coordinator or site coordinator. This is to ensure that you are allowed to either use staples, tape or nails etc on the walls of the venue. Otherwise you will have to use pipe and draping around the perimeter of the room so that nothing is physically attached to the walls. You will also want to get the measurements of the venue space so that you can accurately get a quote for the draping panels and determine how many up-lights you would need to achieve the look you are going for.

You may have seen a previous post about my own wedding at the Card Center in Chico, where the talented WeDo Designs and Lisa's Flor Decor absolutely transformed the room by using draping and uplighting.  In case you missed it, here is the before and after pictures:

https://the530bride.wordpress.com/tag/the-card-center/

WeDo Designs recently used draping at the Elks Lodge in Chico and transformed the outdoor space.  The vivid colors caught the guests eyes and tied in the walk way with the rest of the event space.

For an indoor ceremony setting, jaws would certainly drop with this dramatic ceremony entrance! Image courtesy of http://venuesafari.com/dreamy-drapes-using-fabric-draping-at-your-wedding/

Pin spot lighting on the cake, and uplighting throughout the reception hall adds a very rich element to the overall atmosphere.

Image Courtesy of http://www.avantdecor.net/gallery.php

I also recommend saving some images that you find inspiring and showing them to your planner and or decor vendor so that you can give them an idea of the look you are going for. Just remember, the options are endless and don't be afraid to step outside the box and show your personality!

Happy Planning!

Throw the Ultimate Bridal Shower

Bridal Showers are a fun event to throw because let's face it you mix a little champagne with some pre-wedding excitement and everyone has a good time!  Besides, the design options are endless so get creative with your theme.  Note:  You do not have to stick with the colors the bride has chosen for the wedding! I consider the bridal shower as an event that the bride really shouldn't really have to much input it other than the guess list.  She has enough on her plate with the wedding, so let this be something that even she will be surprised when she walks in!  However, if your bride to be is very hands on, this approach may not work so play it safe if need be.

Suggestion: Contact a local wedding coordinator if you need assistance getting organized or getting vendor suggestions for  food, rentals (such as tables, chairs, linens) or even fun favors!  

1. Decor  Choose a playful or glam color scheme with fun pops of color or textures.  Save yourself time by finding coordinating paperie/decor packages that include invitations, banners or signage.

Minted's "Wildflowers" theme uses graphic prints and an understated color palette which allows you to throw in mixed textures and metallics for accents.

Wildflowers Party Decor - $1.70 from: Minted

You can mix textures like glittered champagne flutes to add a little sparkle. Catch the How-To Project on DIY Champagne flutes here.  

Create a simple floral arrangement and spruce it up by adding the glitter element on a variety of glassware.

Photo Credit: http://studioblush.com/blog/blush-floral-design/bridal-shower-2/

"Botanical Wreath" Mixes a variety of colors which gives you a lot of options for decor. You could easily choose a cream or blush linen to keep it light, or add a hint of formality with a black linen. Botanical Wreath Party Decor - $1.70 from: Minted

Botanical Wreath Circle Garlands - $1.70 from: Minted Botanical Wreath Table Signs - $1.70 from: Minted

2. Refreshments Lets face it, a party just isn't a party without yummy treats!  Depending on the time you plan on starting the event, you can choose to serve light refreshments, heavy hors d'oeuvres or a full meal/dinner.  We found a few inspirational ideas:

Photo Credits: www.Bridal Detective.com Photo Credit: Rochebros.com Photo Credit: Themeaningofpie.com Photo Credit: http://www.madiganmade.com

3. Entertainment

Choose the entertainment based on the group, usually a couple of games will get the party going and the crowd to mix. Bridal Shower Bingo Exclusive Personalized Things in a Bride's Purse Game Exclusive Personalized Why Do We Do That Game

If you know the bride well, and want to create a little spicier of a party: Ask the guests to each bring a pair of panties (you can call each guest and tell them what size the bride is and explain the game) so that the bride will have to guess who brought what, and turn a few shades red.. Check out this blog post from "Skip to the Details" where we found the game (it looked like a fun bridal shower!)

There you have it, the bride will be sure to remember this day as a time when her friends and family threw her a kick *** party!  Send the bride home with some treats, and of course the list of who gifted what so that she can get started on those thank you cards!

Happy Planning! Related Articles: 50's Theme Bridal Showers

************************ Affiliate Disclosure: The 530 Bride is a member of Minted Affiliate Marketing and may receive compensation for products purchased via links on our site.

Wedding Party Thank You Gift Ideas

Some couples choose to give their wedding party members gifts or tokens of appreciation for being a part of their special day, though it is not required it is usually customary to do so.  These gifts can range from the inexpensive, to the ultra luxe it just depends on your particular tastes and budget.  Popular items for the bridal party are jewelry, photo frames/keepsakes, personalized robes or tote bags etc.  For the groomsmen, cuff links, flasks, pocket knifes or mugs are among the most popular gifts. Can you venture outside of these parameters? Absolutely!

Here are some fun ideas to get you inspired:

1. Welcome Boxes Fill with small items that are personalized for each member of the wedding party. For instance their favorite candy, a perfume scent or nail polish color you know they would like,  mini bottle of their favorite adult beverage, or a new cd by their favorite artist? The options are endless. Photo Credit: www.weddingpartyapp.com

2. Sports Tickets/apparel If the best man is a hard core fan of the local team, take advantage by seeing if you can snag some good tickets or official apparel/memorabilia that will be sure to be appreciated.

3. Handmade Goods

If you are gifted with craftiness, put your skills to good use and make things like scarfs, jewelry, coin purses, throw pillows or artwork.  Not only will they be original gifts, but will feel more personalized for your wedding party.  Not so crafty? Not to worry, Etsy to the rescue!  Photo Credit: www.watermelonwishes.com

4. Individual Gifts Who says everyone in the party has to get something similar? If a groomsmen is big into gaming, and a bridesmaid has been wanting to try a new lunch spot who says gift cards or individualized gifts aren't the perfect solution.  If you have a wedding party that is difficult to shop for or is very involved in the community, you could also consider making donations in each bridal party members name to a special cause, like the local animal shelter etc.

5. Gift your talent/services If you are in the service industry or have a side passion such as gardening or painting you could offer your services such as a haircut/color, massage or day in the garden.  Not only is the service appreciated but it is a great excuse to get together and do something non-wedding related!

Keep in mind that thank you gifts do not have to be expensive and are often best when they come from the heart, so don't be afraid to do something different if you would like to.  Of course a personalized flask or shot glass can always come in handy down the line so if thinking outside the box isn't on the agenda you will be fine either way!

Happy Planning!

"530" Venues: Outdoor Rustic

Northern California offers an array of beautiful outdoor wedding venues, perfect for your big day.   Here is a quick look at just a few highlights of your options in the "530 area."  

Willow Creek Events Situated on acres of manicured lawns and canopied by huge oak trees, offering multiple ceremony and reception areas to best suit your needs including a 4000 square foot tent, or indoor barn. http://www.willowcreekevents.net; Photo Credit: Willow Creek Events

Gover Ranch Located in the oak-covered foothills of Northern California, Gover Ranch is a very special place to enjoy the most meaningful occasions and to create memories that will resonate for years to come. Within the grounds of what was once a working ranch, century-old structures are surrounded by lush gardens and sprawling manicured lawns. http://www.goverrancheventcenter.com; Photo Credit: Gover Ranch Events

TJ Farms - Chico Surrounded by idyllic green orchards on a country lane, and the grounds are immaculate — you'll find waterfalls, fountains, ivy-covered trellises, a pristine gazebo surrounded by flowers and gently sloping lawns perfect for mingling. Dignified old walnut trees shade the beautiful Southern colonial mansion on the farm. http://www.tjfarmsestates.com; Photo Credit: Drozian Photoworks

White Ranch Events - Chico Surrounded by acres of gorgeous scenery, the White Ranch offers the beauty and privacy needed to make the most of your special day. Let the winding paths guide you through a natural setting lined with sprays of flowers, lush, green vegetation and peaceful fountains. http://whiteranchevents.com; Photo Credit: Kim James Photography

Honker Bay Ranch - Oroville Surrounded by lush greens, offers bridal quarters and plenty of room for large events. http://www.honkerbayranch.com Photo Credit: Honker Bay Ranch

Patrick Ranch Museum - Durham This historic venue is located between Chico and Durham, situated on 28 acres of trees and historic artifacts.  A quiet country estate offering the amenities of a state-of-the-art event center.   http://patrickranchmuseum.org; Photo Credit: Josselyn Peterson Photography

Taber Ranch Vineyards & Event Center- Capay Taber Ranch is located on a 500-acre working ranch in the scenic Capay Valley and is available starting in early spring through late fall for up to 300 guests. http://www.taberranch.com; Photo Credit: Taber Ranch Vineyards

Ponderosa Ridge Ranch - Anderson Ponderosa Ridge Ranch Offers a Truly Personal and Unique Wedding Experience. Offering creekside and barn ceremony sites. http://www.ponderosaridgeranch.com Photo Credit: Ponderosa Ridge Ranch

TBS Ranch & Estate - Palo Cedro TBS Ranch & Estate is a place where old west meets modern day facilities, rolling grassy hills with mature oak trees.  Banquet facilities are within a large classic barn and can be used for dinner and dancing.  http://www.tbsranch.com;  Photo credit: TBS Ranch & Estate

Want to see more venues in your area? Leave a comment of what type of venue you are looking for, or send us a message at info@the530bride.com and we will be sure to assist you with some suitable options!

Pre-Wedding Beauty Trends

1. That Healthy Glow Many brides will start focusing on their skin as the wedding count down begins and want to achieve a "healthy glow."  Consider seeking a beauty professional/estitician for recommendations on products and treatments to help clear up any uneven tones, blemishes etc.

While controversial to some, tanning is often a go-to regimen for brides. There are many ways to achieve this look, and luckily there are sun-free options to consider such as spray tans & lotions.  Make sure to follow safety recommendations with any of these products or tanning services, and be sure not to over expose your skin to any harmful rays.

Remember that staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet will often help improve skin conditions!

2. Hair Extensions Who doesn't want to have the wedding day hair of their dreams?  If aren't naturally gifted with long locks or just want to do something different than your "normal do" consider extensions.  Extensions come in different price ranges depending on how permanent or natural you want them to be.  For example, their are hair pieces that are made to enhance an up-do and can be clipped in easily.  These are much less expensive than individual extensions that need to be glued in.  Natural human hair extensions will cost more than synthetic, but will offer the option to use heat tools like straighteners and curling irons.

It is recommended to talk with your hair stylist regarding your plans for your day of hairstyle, and give yourself time to explore the different options for hair extensions so that you have purchased  them in time for your up-do trial.

3. Nail Care  Since the moment he proposed, your nails have become a little higher priority with that rock on your finger. You may have already started taking bette

r care of your nails by using cuticle oil, hand cream or getting regular manicures.  While acrylic or gel nails have been a staple of the wedding day look, many brides are opting for a gel or shellac style manicure.  Prices can vary depending on the application of the nails, and the products used.  Often the bride will schedule a day with their wedding party to get manicures/pedicures/artificial nails done before the wedding.

4. Fitness/Dieting

Ask any fitness trainer and they will tell you that your health and fitness should not be a temporary goal, but rather an on-going and continuous effort for your own well being.  Realistically, brides may want to shed a few extra pounds or tighten/tone up before their big day.  It is important to try to eat a well balanced diet, and to not do anything extreme to achieve "rapid results" as these types of scenarios are not only dangerous but are usually very temporary. 

5. Artificial Eyelashes "False" or artificial lashes can enhance your wedding day make-up application and help define your eyes in photographs.  Lashes come in different styles depending on if you want individual lashes, full sets of lashes and will also vary on how natural they look.  A newer trend is to have eye lash extensions applied before the wedding, and often brides will start having this service months before the wedding so that they feel more natural and you can find a good length/fullness that works for you.  Make sure to do your research before having  artificial lash extensions done to ensure you this person has experience and good results with other clients.  Don't be afraid to request to see before and after pictures or testimonials from past clients.

Whatever beauty regimen you decide to partake in, just remember that you don't need to do anything drastic to look stunning walking down the aisle.  Your future husband, friends and family already love you just the way you are! 

Photo Credits 1.http://healthinskin.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Tips-to-Have-a-Healthy-Skin.jpg 2. http://avalon.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/feature-hair-extensions.jpg 3. http://www.nevaeh.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/9/files/wedding-nails/tumblr_ml242fjr021qkm7v2o1_500.jpg 4. http://www.fidelmafitness.co.uk/_/rsrc/1368628324038/wedding-fitness-packages/wedding%20dumbells.jpg?height=530&width=401 5. http://www.tanandglaminc.com/eyelash_extension_ba.jpg

What's in your wedding day bag?

We have all read in the wedding magazines about some of the bloopers that have gone down at a wedding, as simple as someone stepping on the back of your gown and ripping the bustle or maybe the waterproof mascara wasn't all that it was promised to be.  Either way, being prepared is never a bad thing.

I don't like the term "Emergency Kit" for a wedding because it reminds me of the jumper cables and flash light that you keep in your trunk, rather than something to ease your mind on such a big day.

The list of what items are wedding day worthy may seem excessive to some, but could come in handy depending on the circumstance.  I would say the following items are the basics, so we will start with those:

• Extra Copies of toasts, ceremony information, seating arrangement etc (Just in case)
• Brides Make-up Bag
• Mini Sewing Kit
• Snacks
• Super Glue
• Bandaids
• Pair of flats
• Deodorant
• Rubber Bands/Hair Ties/Bobby Pins
• Wet Wipes/Towelettes
• Stain Remover Pen or Wipes
• Dental Floss
• Tums, Excedrin etc
• Pack of Tissues

Now here are some items that are also helpful but could be brought in a separate bag or brought by a member of the wedding party if needed:

• Extra contact list of wedding party, and essential vendors
• Extra phone charger
• Sun Block & Bug Spray (good idea for an outdoor setting)
• Lighters (Keep those candles burning!)
• Bottles of water
• Ipod/Music with player
• Double Sided Tape
• Safety Pins
• Plastic Bags for belongings or even for trash bag
• Tampons
• Compact Mirror
• Small amount of cash (just in case)
• Extra Hair Products
• Nail File

The good news is that you will be surrounded by your friends and family on your big day, so they will be there to help should you need anything. So pack your day of bag and as always, Happy Planning!

Photo Credit: http://regalodesign.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/bride_bag_contents.jpg

The Big Question

The big question isn't "To be, or not to be" it is "Will you be my Maid of Honor?." This question shouldn't be taken lightly and you can't just ask anyone now can you.. it's sort of a big deal. Sure, you know who you want to have as your maid of honor, but have you considered how you want to ask or maybe you feel that it is a unspoken understanding that if and when you walk down that aisle, your bestie will be right beside you along the way. Either way we think we have found some pretty cute ways to ask:

1. Come right out and ask with a card The Big Question : Wild Strawberry Designed by Eleanor Grosch from: Shutterfly, Inc.

Stylish Request : Bay Designed by Tallu-lah from: Shutterfly, Inc.

2. Put a frame on it Maybe you don't have to ask, it is just a given.. place your fav photo here

Personalized Maid of Honor Frame from: Koyal Wholesale

3.  Pop the question

Pop up Message from Etsy

See other articles on Will You be My Maid? 17 Fun Ways to Ask...

More products on Etsy

Propose to your bridesmaids

Vegas Baby!

When you announce your exciting news to your closest friends, odds are the responses will be the following: 1. "OMG Congrats, Soooo Exciting!" 2. "Let me see that rock!" 3. "So let's talk bachelorette party details, Vegas?"

Okay so you may have some variations but the general consensus is that your friends are super excited for you and therefore must plan the ultimate bachelorette party of course.  I personally have not done the Vegas bachelorette party, but my girls and I definitely gave Tahoe a run for their money.

If you see yourself walking down the strip in a veil and sash, than this post is for you.

Hotel Stay Before your designated bridesmaid or maid of honor books rooms at a hotel, first make sure that you have a solid head count of everyone who plans to attend and who can agree to put money towards a deposit.  (Tip: Use one credit card, and have everyone pay their portion of the bill to the designated card holder.)

Other things to consider are the amenities included, distance from the airport, and/or to the major attractions or sites you plan on seeing, and the general vibe of the hotel.  (You don't want to get kicked out or anything..)

Attire

When planning the attire for the trip, a good idea is to put together an itinerary first and then plan on what to wear.  For example, decide if the group will explore the town on the first night and eat in, pool day and then a nice dinner afterwards etc.  Some groups decide to do a themed outing like little black dresses (bride wears white, or other color to stand out) costumes, or fun hair/make-up.    Here are a few pieces for inspiration: Mystic Snow White Dress from: For Elyse Inc. Love Stitch Nashville Dreams Dress from: For Elyse Inc.

Stella & Dot Sutton Necklace - White Stone from: Stella & Dot

Stella & Dot Mallorca Chandeliers from: Stella & Dot

Stella & Dot Devon Chandeliers- Silver from: Stella & Dot Women's Shoes - ShoeDazzle - over 3.5" up to 5" Pump - White/ Off White from: ShoeDazzle Women's Shoes - ShoeDazzle - over 3.5" up to 5" Pump - Pink from: ShoeDazzle

Women's Shoes - ShoeDazzle - over 3.5" up to 5" Pump - Pink from: ShoeDazzle

Sashes, Tiaras & Party Fun The Bachelorette Tiara - $8.99 from: Bachelorette.com Bachelorette Sash - Pink Gemstone from: Bachelorette.com Bride-to-Be Spin Book - Tons of Wild Games! - $5.99 from: Bachelorette.com The 51 Most Popular Drinking Games - $13.49 from: Bachelorette.com

VIP Reservations Planning a trip for a large group can have some challenges, make sure to consider the size of your party when booking tickets, tables and other services.  Additional gratuity may be applied in some cases, so plan accordingly.  There are some benefits to a large group as you can often get into clubs and events and get upgrades such as tables or VIP etc because you are bringing a large group to their venue.  Call around to promotors and event companies to see if there is anything you can do ahead of time to snatch up some perks!

The point of this trip is to have an amazing time with your close friends or family members, so be safe and keep it classy!

The 530 Bride is supported by affiliate marketing and will feature links and resources to companies and products that may interest our blog readers.  For more information visit our About Us Page.

Wineries in Our Backyard

There is something about a winery that is just effortless and romantic, making it a perfect location for an engagement party, engagement photography, bridal showers and even an intimate outdoor wedding.  We tend to associate these beautiful winery venues with places like Napa, California or further south but there are locations here in the "530" area that would be just as magical.  Here are a list of some of the local wineries that may be just what you are looking for.

Anselmo Vineyards 28740 Inwood Rd, Shingletown, CA 96088 (530) 474-5546 http://www.anselmovineyards.com

Long Creek Winery Oroville, CA http://www.longcreekwinery.com

Gale Vineyards Durham, CA http://www.galevineyards.com

Dog Creek Cellars Durham, CA http://www.dogcreekcellars.com

Bertagna Son Kissed Vineyards Chico, CA http://www.bertagnawine.com

Odyssey Winery and Vineyards Chico, CA Visit their Facebook page

Rough and Ready Vineyards 17860 Cattle Drive, Rough and Ready, CA (530) 432-7373 http://www.roughandreadyvineyards.com

Vintner's Cellar Redding, CA http://www.222wine.com

If you are thinking of a destination winery event, check out this cool resource mapping out the wineries in California!

Photo Credit: http://www.weddinglocation.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/WineCountry2.jpg

Floral Inspirations to Spring For!

Choosing your floral arrangements can be a little overwhelming, but sometimes all it takes is the right mix of color or textures to get you inspired.   Here are a few designs to put some spring in your step when working on your wedding to-do list. 1.  Ombre Floral Centerpiece - Green Wedding Shoes Blog

http://greenweddingshoes.com/diy-ombre-floral-centerpiece/

2: Keep It Simple - French Wedding - Style Me Pretty

http://www.stylemepretty.com/2014/03/27/french-wedding-in-the-countryside-of-bergerac/

3.  Stunningly Budget Friendly - Astilbe The Wedding Flower

http://onefabday.com/astilbe/

4. Pretty In Peach - Want That Wedding http://www.wantthatwedding.co.uk/2012/12/17/pretty-in-peach-wedding-inspiration/

4. Spring Inspired Succulent Bouquet - Aileen Tran Events

http://aileentran.com/blog/2011/01/24/bouquets-part-duex/

5. A Bouquet that Pops!

http://perfectweddingcollections.blogspot.co.uk/2012/09/spring-wedding-ideas.html

2014 Color Watch

Pantone has released the Fashion Color Report for Spring 2014 and I think we can work with these colors! My personal favorites are Radiant Orchid and Hemlock, but I am looking forward to seeing Dazzling Blue on the radar as well!

Check out Pinterest for some creative uses of color!

Photo Credits:

http://www.pantone.com/pages/FCR/default.aspx?season=spring&year=2014 http://d1n0t8embjb5t8.cloudfront.net/wp/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/pantone-radiant-orchid.jpg

Sunday Funday..Wedding Style

We are glad to see that so many couples are prepared to take advantage of the Bridal Show for all of their wedding needs, making sure to pre-register and save money at the door is just one of the smart moves they are making. If you pre-registered you will receive your personalized mailing labels with your contact information pre-printed so that you can use them to enter to win countless prizes. If you missed the pre-registration, you can still make your own labels ahead of time and print them from home.

As always we will give a few tips for getting the most from your bridal show experience:

1. Check Your List Be aware of your needs so that can make sure to collect information from exhibitors offering the services you have not yet booked.  For example, if you do not yet have a venue or a wedding coordinator you should be sure to make that a priority.  Take advantage of discounts and special offers, and pay special attention to the expiration (if any) of the offer.

2. Attire Your wedding will give you time to shine, but the bridal show isn't the best place for those new heels you bought.  Your feet will thank us, just be comfortable!  Bring a bag that you will be comfortable holding so that you can easily store flyers and business cards from the exhibitors.

3. Entourage Make a day of it, bring your bridal party as back up just in case you need someone to help you decide which catering sample rocked your world, or to help you cover more ground and listen for your name on the prize announcements overhead.

4. Enjoy This day is about you, and all of the possibilities out there to help shape your big day into the celebration you always dreamed of.  So go ahead, have another cupcake on us!

The Holidays DIY Style

Add some sparkle and fun to your holiday events with these fun DIY Ideas: 1.  Drinks

Photo Credit: DIY Sequin Glass Collars by Green Wedding Shoes

2. Santa Baby Photo Credit: Santa Party Favors

3. Gift Tag Photo Credit: Printable Holiday Tags

4. Vintage Holiday Glass Jar Photo Credit: DIY Vintage Christmas Jar

5. Accessorize!

Photo Credit: DIY New Years Eve Hairclip

'I Do' Responsibly

Weddings are a time we bring friends and family together to celebrate your new chapter in life, so unless you have chosen to have a "dry wedding" odds are there will be a champagne toast and then some!  You can choose to serve drinks during either the cocktail hour, reception or both.

When deciding on what types of beverages to serve, consider your guests, budget, and the type of atmosphere you want to have. If you are concerned with over indulgence or expense considering limiting the amount of alcohol per guests, or perhaps only offering beer and wine.

Many wedding venues will specify their requirements and limitations with serving alcohol, some may require a licensed bartender, event insurance, and/or an additional deposit. Some may allow you to supply your own alcohol, while others may not.  If you are supplying your own alcohol but don't know how much you need, try the Bevmo Calculator http://www.bevmo.com/Misc/PartyPlanner.aspx

We recommend hiring a licensed and insured bar service to host your event as they are not only great bartenders but they specialize in weddings and events and know how to determine when someone has had too much to drink.  They can discreetly handle this for you without causing a scene, and in the end will help ensure everyone has a safe but responsible evening.  A professional bar service will also assist you with selecting wines & spirits as well as the quantity needed for the size of your event. For help choosing a Bar Service in the 530 area, visit our directory.

When it comes to the end of the night (your wedding night is a blur so take care of these details ahead of time) have a transportation plan in place.  If your location is a distance from town consider a shuttle for larger groups.  Make sure that you discuss vehicles and over-night parking with your venue, you don't want any guests to have their cars towed!

Cheers to an amazing wedding night, and to celebrating responsibly!

~Happy Planning!~

Get The Word Out

At a time of year when many couples are celebrating their engagement, many are looking for fun ways to announce their news & their date to their immediate friends and family.  Call us old fashioned but Facebook just doesn't cut it! Depending on the length of your engagement you can opt for an engagement announcement, save the date card, or even a wedding announcement if you chose to elope and want to announce the nuptials.

Here are a few cute ways to spread the news!

Charming Chalkboard Save the Date Cards

Our Love Story Save the Date Minibook™ Cards

Wood Carving Save the Date Cards

Stache + Kiss Save the Date Cards

Engaged Engagement Party Invitations

E is for Engaged Engagement Party Invitations

Darling Deuce

Finally Engaged

Keep in mind, announcements like these do not have to correspond with your wedding theme as you may not have even defined what your theme is yet at this stage of the game.  If you already have your theme in mind, or would like to create one from scratch and want to work with a local designer you can head over to The Idea Emporium and get started on branding your wedding!

__________________________________________ **Disclosure: The530Bride is an affiliate of Minted.com and TinyPrints.com, we only list and recommend products and services from companies that we have personally used and believe are a good fit for our readers.  We may receive a commission from products purchased directly from sponsored posts.  For more information please contact us.