July 2013 - Page 3 of 3 - Bridal Hot List

Rustic Chic Picnic Photo Shoot by Expressionary Events

July 9, 2013 Leave a Comment

The best way to add a bit more inspiration to the week? It is all about the California outdoors infused with rustic details and a touch of elegance. Sounds pretty amazing to me. I have to admit I am kind of obsessed with picnics. They are so romantic and intimate, and it makes for such a lovely setting. Throw in a couple of love birds into the mix, and it is all over. I am just head over heels in love. This stunning rustic chic styled photo shoot most certainly delivers the most beautiful, and lovely of details. All gorgeously delivered by the ever so talented Carmen at Expressionary Events. The images? Can you say swoon? Total swoon moment for me. This breathtaking photo shoot, captured entirely by the fabulous Jaime Davis Photography.There are so many pretty details that are competing for my love. I mean, the gorgeous blooms, the fabulous cake, the orange trees, and the sweet couple adorned with the loveliest of details. I can go on and on about this shoot, but I think it is time for you to take a peek and see what I am so obsessed about.

From Carmen of Expressionary Events…

The idea and inspiration came from the designers’ love for the outdoors and romantic picnics. There is a certain allure and serenity of being in the outdoors among the trees and nature. We choose Rancho Las Lomas, a beautiful garden venue that is surrounded by citrus trees, stunning architecture, and exotic wildlife. This venue provides couples with plenty of opportunities to incorporate a rustic chic feel at every corner of the property. The concept was to create a whimsical yet rustic style wedding for brides that want to have a more causal and intimate wedding but may not know how to accomplish the look or feel.

Elements included in the shoot:

Different floral patterns as well as wood elements were chosen to complement the outdoor elements in the shoot.
Color palette: The main color palette for the shoot consisted of jewel tones such as pink, purples and ivory
Bride fashion & jewelry: For the bride, we chose a dress that really tied in the theme all together. The sweetheart neckline and tulle gown made the look very whimsical. Small lace and beaded embellishments creating a romantic feel.
Bride Jewelry: We kept the look simple with a tear drop necklace, and matching bracelets. The statement piece was the gorgeous Grecian inspired headpiece by AlwaysAri.
Grooms Fashion: We kept the Groom very casual in khaki pants,a plaid dress shirt, and suspenders with a faux leather bow tie made by AlwaysAri to complement the ‘Rustic Picnic Theme. Keeping the tie into the romantic elements
Bride hair & make-up: The Bride’s makeup was done really soft with pinks and pastels to create a very natural yet whimsical feel. Her hair was half up half down with multiple braids to create the very outdoor and natural look with relaxed curls. Her hair was finished off with a Grecian headpiece fit for any bride looking to make a statement on her wedding day.
Flowers & event décor: For the table scape gray and white toned linen was used to blend nicely with the trunk like vase that held jewel toned flowers of pinks and purples. Bamboo place mats were placed underneath a ivory plate and special silverware with garden engraved pictures finished off the table décor. Wine and berries were incorporated to bring in elements of a rustic picnic wedding.
Cake: The cake was decorated with rosettes and floral to complement the theme. The cake sat on a special designed cake stand made out of wood and milk glass. The table was adorned with a knife and server decorated with the same designs as the silverware on the table.

We want couples to get concepts from this shoot and be able to create it for their wedding day. Simply by choosing key statement pieces such as a headpiece or bamboo place mats can really make a difference in make something come to life at your event. Picnics are simple but with the right decor you can always bring elegance to anything.

Venue: Rancho Las Lomas

Event Styling and Design: Expressionary Events

Photography: Jaime Davis Photography

Wardrobe Styling: Styled by Connie

Hair & Make-up: Rock Me Up

Bride’s Gown: Bridal Elegance

Flowers: Flower Fusion

Cake: Love Me Sweets

Linens: La Tavola

Jewelry and Headpiece: Always Ari

Invitation: Expressionary Events

Models: Laurie Young Romeo & Ryan Romeo

Filed Under: General Tagged With: bridal, bride, expressionary Events, groom, intimate wedding, Jaime Davis Photography, love, nature, news, outdoor wedding, photo shoot, picnic, rancho Las Lomas, rustic chic, rustic chic picnic, styled shoot, venue, wedding

Tips for a Perfect Wedding Day

July 8, 2013 Leave a Comment

Planning a wedding can be intricate and overwhelming, whether it be for a loved one, or for you. The selected tips in this article can help you shed new light on options you may have not thought of, and help you to organize the perfect wedding.

Understand that religious faith will influence both what your wedding looks like and your relationship going forward. It may help to discuss this with your families so that they understand how you plan on handling dual faiths in your marriage.

When wedding planning, think about what alcohol you want to serve, how you want to serve it, and try to be cost efficient. Just letting people drink all they want can really add up, especially if the reception lasts a long time. The venue representative will be able to advise you of the various alcohol service options available.

When you decide who you want to give the speeches during the reception, ask them to read them to you so you know they are appropriate. If there are going to be different generations there, you don’t want to offend anyone.

The photos taken during your wedding are important as you’ll look at these a lot of times during your lifetime. It pays to spend the extra cash to hire a wedding photographer in order to reduce the chance of some amateur screwing up your wedding photos.

The most important part of marriage is the person you plan on marrying. Do not make a hasty decision. See your partner as she really is–the good and the bad. Think not only about the reasons you love her, but all her bad habits and quirks that might irritate you after months or years together.

Your vows are very important for a very momentous occasion so make sure you take time to write them to perfection. It’s important to understand that a marriage is a strong commitment that takes both of you making sacrifices. Of course, the most important thing for vows to convey is your love for your partner.

For any stylish and fashion forward bride, there is always the option to add some flare to a bouquet with a splash of diamonds, rhinestones or Swarovski crystals. This is easy to do at home; you can just use some heat-fixed crystals or adhesives, some costume jewelry or even attach a heirloom piece. To ensure that it coordinates with the rest of your ensemble, be consistent in terms of sparkling colors, cut, and size of the stones.

Midday is your best bet for planning a wedding reception. People drink less during this time and you will not spend as much on alcohol. By having a lunch reception, the costs for food will also normally be less expensive. This could allow you to put the money saved towards other services required for your wedding.

Now that you know the fundamentals of wedding planning, you can apply the ideas presented here to manifest a personalized experience. Applying these tips can make your wedding planning hassle free, and give your guests, and yourself, an experience you will treasure forever.

Filed Under: General Tagged With: bride, groom, love, marriage, opinion, perfect wedding day, tips, wedding day, wedding event

Five Fashion No-No’s for Bridesmaids

July 7, 2013 Leave a Comment

Alright, so you’ve got the dress, you’ve got the date, the only thing left is showing up. As a bridesmaid, your job is to help out your blushing bride, but you should also remember this event will be photographed. Heavily. Here’s a few tips on what to avoid on the big day.

The Accent Nail

Yes, accent nails can be cute, but not on someone else’s big day. This trend took off a little over a year ago and is still popping up, but is not appropriate for a wedding. Unless the bride specifies that she wants accent nails, I would avoid this entirely. Just because it can be fun at bachelorette parties does not mean it will be fun at a formal gathering. It’s best to stick to a classic french tip or a demure shade that compliments the wedding theme.

Pouting

As a bridesmaid, you will be visible at all times and be close to the forefront of the wedding ceremony. To show your support, you should not be moping or pouting. Even if your jaw hurts, you want to convey a sense of happiness and pride for the bride. You are a reflection of her friendships and who she is outside of her relationship. Plus it’s a wedding! Leave your stress at the door and enjoy yourself.

Don’t Go Gaudy

It’s good to stick to simple and smaller for your stint as a bridesmaid. Again, unless your bride specifies against it, lean towards conservative. As far as jewelry and accessories go, definitely aim for pretty and classic. This doesn’t mean basic or boring, just nothing to distract from anything else. Pearls or small topaz stones are appropriate for most outfits and color schemes. Also, try to avoid drop earrings or anything that hangs too long. You want to look as polished as you can to compliment the bride.

Leave the Blushing to the Bride

A wedding is typically an all day affair, and you will be expected to participate all day. Between the dancing, the wine, the sun, and your overall running around, it’s perfectly fine to skip the blush for the day. Your body’s natural blush will be enough to keep you rosy all day long. I would suggest picking up a powder highlighter instead. Cream or liquids may run, but a powder will absorb any extra oils or sweat that may occur over the course of the day. A highlighter on your cheeks is pretty and can offer you a glow in pictures.

Glitter

You’re at a wedding, not a disco. Yes, some shimmer in eyeshadow may make your eyes pop but leave it at that. Ditch the glitter eyeliner until your next girl’s night, over-doing glitter is inappropriate for weddings. It may be fun to wear but this day is about the bride, you should not outshine her. Glitter in your lip gloss doesn’t always photograph well, and you should always stay away from body glitter. There’s no reason to wear body glitter to a formal event ever. Putting a little bit of gold eyeliner in your inner corners can make your eyes look bright and fun without being overpowering or obnoxious.

Filed Under: General Tagged With: beauty, bridal, bride, bridesmaid, fashion, fashion tips, glitter, Make up, opinion, trending, trends, wedding, weddings

Three Ways to Ask For Forever

July 6, 2013 Leave a Comment

When it comes time to propose ladies rest assured that your man is feeling the pressure. You are the love of his life and he wants to do something special to show you just how much he cares about you. Whether you are the quiet and intimate or over-the-top type couple , your boyfriend will plan and plot to make it a moment you will remember for the rest of your lives together. But just in case he needs a little inspiration, here are a few proposal stories that are unique, well thought out and personalized to please the bride-to-be.

A Family Affair

I know for me, there is nothing I love more than to share those special moments in life with the ones I love. That is why when I heard of this family style proposal it jumped to the top of my favorite list.

The unsuspecting bride-to-be joins her boyfriend for a day at the Huntington Library Botanical Gardens is Pasadena. Upon entering the grounds, her boyfriend leaves her to “use the restroom.” Here the plan is set into motion. Soon after his departure the bride is joined by a friend who gives her a piece of paper. This is her first clue in a series of clues that lead her around the grounds of the Huntington Library. The best part… at the end of each clue is a family member to give her the next slip of paper. By the end of the scavenger hunt she has gathered about 25 of her closest family and friends. The very last clue leads them to her boyfriend who drops to his knee and asks her to be his wife.

The Scenic Route

We all know (and secretly wish we could be) that couple who is always active. They love to be outside playing sports, exercising, hiking, you name it. This next proposal is perfect if you happen to be the “out-doorsy” type.

A boyfriend decides to take his girlfriend on a hike to their favorite spot, just the two of them. This spot happens to be on a mountain over looking the beautiful Washington landscape. After an intermediate hike they finally reach the top and the view is absolutely gorgeous. The girlfriend is stunned when her boyfriend kneels to ask if she will become his wife. Luckily, a couple hiking near by sees the proposal and snaps some awesome photos. As a result this couple now has one of the coolest proposal photos I have ever seen. If this type of proposal suits you, make sure you enlist some help to capture that perfect moment.

A Public Display of Affection

When we find the one we love, we are so happy that we want to shout it from the rooftops just to make sure everyone knows we have found the one. Let’s be honest now, some of us secretly want that proposal in front of a crowd or in a public place where hundreds of random people can be witness to your partner’s declaration of love. Here is a unique take on making a public proposal intimate and romantic.

The bride-to-be meets a colleague in a crowded restaurant for a “business” meeting. Unbeknownst to her, the meeting was actually set up by her boyfriend to ensure she was at this specific restaurant. A little while into the meeting she spots her boyfriend walking up to her table. “What are you doing here” she asks him. He looks at her and there (in the middle of the restaurant) he lifts his hand and snaps his fingers. Immediately the entire restaurant freezes mid meal, laugh and conversation. It is now just the two of them, alone in a crowded restaurant. He is able to tell her exactly what she means to him, kneel and propose. She accepts and with another snap of his fingers the restaurant explodes in applause.

No matter the type of proposal your fiance has in store for you, it is ultimately about celebrating and cementing the fact that you have found in each other the piece you did not know was missing. On top of a mountain, in a crowd or amongst family and friends, the proposal marks the beginning of the new life you will share together.

Filed Under: General Tagged With: bridal, bride, bride to be, engagement, groom, love, opinion, proposal, proposal ideas, surprise proposal, wedding

300th Post – A Retrospective of Bridal Hot List

July 5, 2013 1 Comment

On behalf of Niloufar and the entire roster of talented writers at Bridal Hot List, we’d like to thank our readers for continually checking in with the hottest growing blog about the bridal industry on the internet. For those of you that don’t know, this site is the brainchild of popular Orange County Wedding Coordinator Niloufar Gibson. While there are a ton of great blogs about weddings out there, nobody would ever focus on the latest and greatest tips for brides and weddings. While most would focus on general information that was fairly helpful, Niloufar’s goal was to create a site where brides and other coordinators could read about the very latest trends.

It’s almost been a year since Bridal Hot List debuted and the site continues to grow leaps and bounds. The staff’s efforts have led to wonderful relationships with national brands such as TLC and Nordstrom, making the way for incredible features exclusively posted here about the latest trends in the industry. As the site continues to grow, more of these relationships will manifest, resulting in more amazing content to be featured here each and every day.

That brings up another great aspect about the site that is a testament to Niloufar’s dedication. Ever since the site launched, a new story has appeared every single day at BridalHotlist.com for readers to enjoy. To do that, it’s taken a lot of hard work, commitment and creativity which are all traits that Niloufar and the entire BHL team has shown day in and day out. On behalf of myself and the entire BHL team, we’d like to thank Niloufar for her dedication toward the site and her amazing leadership she’s demonstrated over the last year.

A new element that has been rolled out in recent months is the Bridal Hot List: Vendor Hot Pick award program. Vendors are able to apply to the site to be considered for the program and are rated by our staff on many different criteria for quality. Based off of our research and combined with the relevance of the latest industry trends, a vendor can be given this award and are welcome to display on their site or other properties. BHL will be heavily promoting the Vendor Hot Pick program in Q3 of 2013 and beyond, giving vendors a tremendous opportunity to make a name for themselves in the industry and to our thousands of unique monthly readers.

The future of Bridal Hot List is looking especially bright. Recently we’ve accepted approximately a half dozen new writers to the stable, all of which bring incredible insight and unique flair. With such a diverse set of perspectives, BHL has more relevant content than most (if not all) of the other bridal blogs combined. As the site continues to grow and our visitors keep going up, new opportunities for writers and vendors will make their way into the site over the next year.

My final word in this 300th post goes out to you, the loyal reader. On behalf of the entire team here, we’re honored to have you visit our site on a daily basis. A lot of time and effort goes into the content and we’re so glad that our visitors enjoy reading it. We’re thrilled to be your resource for the latest bridal and wedding trends and promise to you that we’re only getting started here at Bridal Hot List. Stay tuned, as this is only the tip of the iceberg for what we have in store for the future.

Filed Under: General Tagged With: Bridal Hot List, news

July 4th Wedding Weekend Must Do’s

July 4, 2013 Leave a Comment

With the Fourth of July here, and all the barbecues beach days, and relaxing activities, weddings are also here. Yep, many couples will choose a long weekend to celebrate their love with close friends and family. Why not? I am a total fan of long weekends and weddings. It is the perfect way to spend time with the ones you love for more than just one day. When the wedding day comes, it is hard to spend that quality time with each and every guest. So why not extend the celebrations into a few more days? I think that the fourth of July weekend is one of those weekends where you can totally do this! Here are some ideas of how you can celebrate with your guests at two of my favorite Southern Orange County spots!

Dana Point Harbor: A quaint beach town in the lovely city of Dana Point, California. Besides its gorgeous views and beach-side living, this town offers so many fun filled activities for you and your guests. You can go kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, and jet skiing. Want to go Whale-watching? Sure, you can do this too! What is great is that if any of your guests have children, this is a perfect location for them. There is a small beach called “baby beach” which has shallow water, no waves, soft sands, and plenty of room to make sand castles! So, your guests who are parents can really enjoy a day at the beach without the worry about waves and a huge crowd. Kids love this place! You can also enjoy seafood at many of the restaurants on the harbor, or if you are feeling like a treat, then there is a famous ice cream place too. Kids will love this as well. If you are not feeling like going to a restaurant then you can have a barbecue with your guests. The harbor has some great spots with a grill, and covered picnic tables. The parking is free and the view? Well, the view is amazing. Imagine barbecuing, playing ball, games, or just relaxing…all on the gorgeous waters. It is incredible. So, if you are having a wedding on a long weekend like the 4th of July, then consider Dana Point Harbor. You and your guests will have a great time!

Laguna Beach: Ah, Laguna Beach, California. I may have mentioned this spot a few times before, but I really love this town. Not only does it offer spectacular ocean views from about anywhere you are, it has some of the finest eateries. Whatever your palate desires, there is a restaurant for you and your guests. Want an ocean-view seat? No problem, there are several fantastic places with perfect views of the ocean. Enjoy sunset views with dinner with your guests. Laguna Beach of course has a main beach area where you can play basketball, walk the boardwalk, get some rays, swim, or just relax in the sun. I can go on and on about this amazing spot, but I want to bring your attention to a exclusive and private spot. If you are having your wedding celebrations on a long weekend and want to avoid the large crowds, then I have the perfect place for you. Hotel Laguna is located right in the heart of Laguna Beach. If you stay at this hotel, you have access to the a private beach which comes fully equipped with chairs, lounge chairs, towels, and a server. You do not have to worry about getting to the beach early to hold your spot. It is a fabulous hotel and great service. Treat yourself and your guests to an amazing weekend in Laguna Beach, California. If you are looking for fine foods, gorgeous ocean views, beach side fun, or a relaxing time, then this is the place for you.

The private beach area of Hotel Laguna

Happy 4th of July!!

All photos are property of Bridal Hot List.

Filed Under: General Tagged With: activities, beach, bride, Dana Point, fourth of july wedding, groom, Hotel Laguna, July 4th, laguna Beach, long weekend, opinion, orange county, south orange county, things to do, wedding, wedding event

An Independence Day Food Extravaganza: Fourth of July Recipes

July 3, 2013 Leave a Comment

The 4^th of July is one of my favorite holidays in the United States. Growing up in Italy, I would only see it on TV. It was when I moved to the United States that I discovered the fun, energetic and patriotic spirit of the people celebrating Independence Day. What intrigued me even more was the variety of foods available during the celebration. From pies, to pizzas, to pigs in a blanket, everything sounded too delish to be true. As we are about to celebrate the 4^th of July for 2013, I thought to share with you some of my favorite recipes that will delight your palate.

On the 4^th of July, start your day with a patriotic breakfast.

What better way than using the red, blue and white colors of our flag? Mix your favorite Greek yogurt with blueberries, raspberries and almonds bits. Drizzle with honey and enjoy.

As lunch rolls in, you want to be able to have something easy that requires little work. A sandwich seems a perfect solution. Call it PANINI and you have a winner! Is it finger food? Entree? No matter what, it will delight your taste buds.

You can use your imagination and make any of your favorite combinations. One of my favorite Panini assemblages is grilled bread, fresh tomatoes and basil with mozzarella. Stack of the ingredients and then place in a Panini press. If you don’t have one, just use your pan and press the Panini down with something heavy (i.e. smaller pan). However, your possibilities are infinite. Brie, pears and honey mustard is a perfect ten for a Panini. As a side, you can serve veggies, salads, chips, kale chips, baked veggie etc.

As dinner roll in, the 4^th of July screams ground meat! Specifically, burgers and meatballs. Burgers have always the spotlight, so today, we will focus on the underdogs: Meatballs!

If you want to keep it leaner, use ground turkey. Otherwise, you can use ground beef. In a bowl, mix ground meat with your favorite seasoning. I usually use a chipotle based seasoning because of the smoked flavor. Add, one egg, a half a cup of bread crumbs (or panko or oatmeal), fresh herbs (especially sage and rosemary). Mix everything together. With your hands, form small balls and line on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Bake is oven for 25 minutes at 400 degrees. Serve hot or cold with your favorite sauce.

Of course we cannot forget about dessert. This is the time to indulge. Buy your favorite desserts. The ones that you wish you could eat every day . The ones that make your eyes roll. And enjoy!

HAPPY 4^th of JULY!

Filed Under: General Tagged With: celebration, celebration of the 4th, food, Fourth of July, good food, holiday, independence day, opinion, recipes

Five July 4th Inspired Wedding Ideas

July 2, 2013 Leave a Comment

The 4th of July means something different to everybody. Picnics in the park, barbecues, and of course fireworks, are all memories I’m sure many of us have. There are so many ways to celebrate this special day on your special day. So I pulled together five great 4th of July inspired wedding ideas:

Let Them Eat Cupcakes: Although you may not want a three tiered red, white, and blue wedding cake, you can however do cupcakes with red, white, and blue icing. You can even place them in clear cupcake boxes. This allows your guests to take their cupcakes home. You have now created an edible souvenir for your guests!

Drink Up: Festive drinks are great no matter the occasion. So why not serve one that will help people celebrate the 4th? Try this 4th of July layered drink, Sobe Pina Colada, Fruit Punch, G2 Blueberry-Pomegranate. It’s not only visually appealing, it’s also delicious.

Dress Code: Give your guests a dress code. Ask them to dress in the colors that represent the 4th. Whether it’s a navy suit, red dress, or a white shoe, it doesn’t matter. Giving your friends this kind of creative freedom may be a little scary. It’s okay to give rules that may help rein in those friends who may take it a little too far. There is such a thing as being too festive.

Kiddie Blankets: If your reception is outside, this tip may be perfect for you. Often times kids aren’t allowed to attend the reception. If by chance you are allowing them to do so, instead of a table for the children, try laying out picnic blankets for the them to sit on. Create a space where they can eat, and make a mess. It’s also helpful for parents who worry about their children spilling on the beautiful tablecloth, or knocking over the centerpieces. This is also great if by chance you’re going to have a fireworks show.

Ending The Night: It’s traditional to throw rice, rose petals, or even blow bubbles. Try bending tradition a little. Give sparklers to your guests to light for your exit. You can then walk down the lit aisle arm in arm with the one you love, and into your wonderful new life that’s sure to be filled with infinite happiness.

Filed Under: General Tagged With: 4th of july, bride, celebration, ceremony, opinion, wedding ideas, weddings

The All American Bride

July 1, 2013 Leave a Comment

The 4th of July is right around the corner, and with wedding season in full swing, it is no surprise that many brides are wondering how to incorporate the Independence Day festivities into their special day. However, if the idea of throwing Old Glory willy-nilly all over your wedding reception makes you want to run for the hills, don’t you worry—we will show you how to add hints of 4th flair without creating a cheesy red, white, and blue festival.

LOCATION:
It can sometimes be difficult to walk the line between cheesy and classy when incorporating a strong theme into your reception. Picking the right location for your big day can be the first step in discovering just how far you can push your theme. For example, an outdoor reception can have more of a vintage Americana feel, while a reception in a hotel ballroom might restrict you in how far you can go with your 4th of July decorations. In other words, allow the “feel” of the venue dictate the “feel” of your theme choices. There is something “American” feeling about an outdoor wedding, whether it’s on a picturesque beach, a beautiful lakeside shore, a rustic barn, or under a tree in your own backyard.

DECORATIONS:
The décor will be the most impactful way for you to add some 4th flair. The key is choosing a design aesthetic that is cohesive—the last thing you want is some random flags stuck onto your table and cutouts of fireworks taped onto the walls. A classic “Americana” or Southern shabby-chic vibe fits into a Norman Rockwell aesthetic that is perfect for Independence Day. Think plaid, gingham, old lace, burlap, and rustic wooden signs and crates—easy, comfortable, and effortless beauty. If you want to go with red, white, and blue, keep the colors subdued and distressed, never bright or tacky. Don’t be afraid to mix patterns when it comes to your table decorations—mismatched linens, tableware, and flatware can give it an old, antique feel. It should look like everything came out of an old vintage trunk found in your grandmother’s attic, not like you bought it at a party store. Vintage flags can serve as table markers at the reception, while wildflowers in porcelain and glass vases delicately enhance the table. Stringing paper lanterns and tea lights add a romantic and nostalgic flare.

FOOD:
Your food choices can be a fun and creative way to add some irony and humor into your reception. This is your chance to get cheesy! “Dressed-up” comfort food is a fantastic way to keep with your theme. Bacon-wrapped dates, macaroni and cheese, barbecue, gourmet grilled cheese, sliders, popcorn, a mashed potato bar—the list goes on! Cocktail choices range from craft beer to mint juleps, and for non-alcoholic drinks, think retro favorites: Coke served in real Coke bottles, lemonade, sweet tea, root beer. Mason jars are a great way to serve your drinks, but if you are worn-out from the whole Mason jar trend, you can always mix and match old glass bottles and jars. For desserts, caramel apples, cupcakes, and traditional pies are delicious options, while a snow-cone booth is sure to add some fun and quirk to any reception. Having an outdoor reception? Make a s’mores station around a campfire!

ODDS AND ENDS:
Continue your theme before and after your wedding by having your wedding stationery reflect your Independence Day motif—mixing patterns, using vintage-inspired fonts, and keeping the colors within the subdued color palette from your reception. You can also use the same type of stationery for writing your thank you notes. Wedding favors for your guests could be confetti poppers, sparklers, vintage flags, or even canned preserves from a local farm. Finish off your night with a private fireworks show or by driving off in a classic pick up truck or vintage car.

Finally, it is important to remember why we celebrate the 4th of July, and a great way to do that is by giving back. On your wedding registry, present your guests with the option of donating to a charity of your choice. There are several fantastic organizations that benefit veterans, soldiers, and military families. On your special day, nothing speaks more towards the spirit of the American people than giving back to those who helped us secure our freedom and those who are fighting to keep it intact.

Filed Under: General Tagged With: Americana, bride, Flowers, food, Fourth of July, holiday, opinion, outdoor wedding, reception, Southern, summer, Themed, trend, venue, vintage