The Smart Bride Blog

Pink, Black and White Themed Wedding

2012-01-15T20:10:00.000-08:00

Pink and Red Themed Wedding Inspiration Board

2011-12-01T19:58:00.000-08:00

I wouldn't normally pick pink and red as a colour combination that would work for a wedding, but as Anne Ruthman Photgraphy demonstrates, it can work, and it can be stunning!

Pink and Purple Wedding Flower Inspiration

2011-11-01T19:56:00.000-07:00

A Country Themed Wedding

2011-10-25T21:38:00.000-07:00

Wedding Photography by Ulmer Studios, inspiration board from Style Me Pretty

Black Bridesmaid Dresses

2011-10-05T21:07:00.000-07:00

Black has been one of the hottest colours for bridesmaids this past winter, and with brides choosing from the endless array of evening dresses that are available in black, it isn't hard to see why this is a popular colour choice. Let's take a quick look at some of the benefits:

These bridesmaid dresses can be bought off the rack
They don't necessarily have to be bought from a wedding or formal store
If you want to use different styles for different bridesmaids, you don't really have to worry about colour shades not matching
With endless styles to choose from you're more likely to find a style that all your bridesmaids are happy with
Black is a very elegant choice for an evening wedding
Perhaps your bridesmaid is more likely to wear a black evening dress again? (Because in reality, most bridesmaids don't end up wearing their dresses ever again).

Top Tips For Saving On Your Wedding Cake

2011-09-20T16:44:00.000-07:00

Image source: Little Miss Cupcake Paris

Use real flowers (as in the picture above) instead of expensive hand made sugar or icing decorations.

Make your own cake and get a professional to decorate it.

Go one step further and make and decorate your own cake. Books available from your local library can get you started with basic decorating techniques, and edible and non-edible embelishments can be bought from homeware shops, speciality food shops, cake decorating shops (and online cake decorating stores) and ebay.

Have a small cake for decoration with a larger and non-decorated cake to actually serve to your guests. No one will ever know!

Polystyrene cakes have just started doing the rounds again. These are display cakes (like the above point) and decorated so professionally that no one will ever know they difference. Because they are not made of food stuffs they can be used over and over again, and are therefore cheaper than a real cake. Then your only expense is the actual cake that you serve your guests (which can be anything, from anywhere, and made by anyone because how it looks doesn’t matter!).

Have a professional cake decorator decorate a polystyrene cake for you to match your wedding theme.

If you are having a layered cake, you could make one of your layers a polystyrene layer (that is of course iced and deocrated exactly the same as the rest of your layers.

Ring the cake decorators association in your state (you can find them in the yellow pages or on the internet) for a list of people who decorate as a hobby. You can get a lovely cake for a fraction of the cost.

This Smart Bride didn’t have a cake at all (a very personal choice and not for everyone). I have never understood the cake cutting tradition and doing this was not important to me (or my husband). Of all the weddings I have been to I have either not eaten the cake I have been served because I’ve been too full, or they’ve given it to me in a little bag to take home, and that ends up sitting on the kitchen bench for a week before it goes all hard and crusty and I throw it in the bin. We mentioned the missing cake to a few of our guests after the wedding and they said they didn’t even notice. The time we saved by not cutting a cake was spent on the dance floor, partying. The money we saved was spent on our honeymoon. A very personal choice, but something you may want to consider.

Green Wedding Colors: The "It" Color for 2011

2011-09-10T20:42:00.000-07:00

By Tiffany Cole

The thought of green wedding colors has great appeal to me. Why?

Because green is my favorite color. For example: my wall-to-wall carpet is green; I have a lot of green colored clothes; I have green accents all over my house; in fact, my house is painted green; I painted my outdoor furniture green; and I still miss my little green sports car that died.

And why not green, after all, shades of green symbolizes health, growth, life, fertility and the environment.

Green wedding colors whether used with a cooling effect like blue or a warming effect like yellow becomes a beautifully balanced and harmonizing theme.

The wonderful thing about the color green is that it can be used any time of the year and either indoors or outdoors.

The green you use should be coordinated with your wedding location and your theme.

By that I mean, if it's to be a more formal affair then the greens would be better in dark, rich and somber shades but if it's a casual informal ceremony then try light, more playful, shades of green and, by all means, use more than one shade of green.

Another really terrific color combination is purple, lilac and mint green. You will be long remembered for this color theme.

Here are 8 great ideas to incorporate the color green into your wedding:

1. Print your wedding invitations with dark green ink one light green paper. Use green-lined envelopes and/or a green envelope seal.

2. Use green blooms, ivy, ferns and other greenery as part of your wedding centerpieces. Adding green marbles, moss or pebbles to the centerpiece is also a lovely idea.

3. Your wedding favors can be in green favor boxes filled with your choice of candies or cookies. A votive candle in your chosen shade of green placed at each guests seat can act as a place mark and then they can take them home.

4. Have your table linens be in your shade of green or having a white tablecloth with green table runners is very attractive. Then tie the napkins with green ribbon and top off the look by having green tulle tied around the guest chairs.

5. At the wedding ceremony have a green aisle runner and tie green pew ribbons on the aisle chairs or pews.

6. Use topiary trees at the church entrance which can then be taken to the reception and placed on each side of the bridal head table; this will help keep down the flower budget, too.

7. You can find green wedding ring pillows and unity candles to complete the green theme at the church.

8. Have your wedding cake decorated with greenery instead of flowers and green faux jewels on your cake is very elegant looking. Green icing or frosting is certainly an eye-catcher especially if used with a secondary theme color.

Of course, outdoor settings are especially suited for green-themed weddings as you can take advantage of nature's handy work.

Botanical gardens, city parks, and some churches have beautiful gardens where you can have your wedding. You will need to check the facilities to see if they are available for weddings and receptions.

And, don't forget, a family member or friend may have THE perfect yard for your special day.

If the wedding is indoors be sure to check to see what the color of the walls, carpets and drapes are to make sure it fits with your colors. You certainly don't want clashing colors; rather you want to integrate your colors for a coordinated look.

As you can see, there are many ways that green can be a gorgeous color for your wedding no matter whether you choose it to be a dominant color or used as an accent. This gentle color gives a sense of nature and peace and makes it perfect for a romantic wedding. So enjoy the above ideas for green wedding colors and, I bet, with just a little thought you can come up with many more.

For more about weddings and Green Wedding Colors check out Tiffany's blog.

Tiffany Cole has a huge passion for weddings and in particular likes to come up with creative ideas to create dream weddings without breaking the bank. If you'd like to see more of Tiffany's ideas, tips and tricks then you can go to her blog at http://InexpensiveWeddingIdeasGuide.com.

How To Choose The Perfect Wedding Shoes

2011-09-05T19:21:00.000-07:00

By Barbaran Campbell

This article comes to you from someone who has a long established love of footwear and who has supplied, dyed and decorated wedding shoes for a living for the past 25 years. Over that time, I have learned a thing or two on the subject of how to go about choosing the perfect wedding shoes for what will, undoubtedly, be one of the best days of your life!

I don't know of any woman who can honestly say that a stunning pair of shoes doesn't make her feel great - even on a normal day! But on your big day, a gorgeous pair of wedding shoes becomes even more important and will make sure you feel even more beautiful. And, of course, don't forget your hen night when you will most definitely need lots of 'sparkle' on your toes....

On a more serious note - your wedding shoes are just as important as your wedding dress - but many brides are so engrossed in the mountain of arrangements they need to address that they neglect prioritising their shoes. You should choose your shoes around the same time as you are choosing your dress as you will need them for your dress fittings. Any alterations being made to the length of your dress will be determined by the heel height of your shoes. Also, surprisingly, it may take more time to source your shoes than it takes to find your 'dream' dress.

They say 'no pain - no gain', however, when it comes to your wedding shoes, comfort must be your number one priority. No matter how stunning your shoes are, if you are in pain or discomfort, your mood and your face will reflect it! Your wedding day will most certainly mean many hours of standing and walking and, later, dancing too....

So, you should ask yourself a few basic questions:

Can I walk upright and straight, without stumbling in my shoes?

Platform (4 inches +) - requires courage and confidence - for that 'model' look. Shoulders back, chest out, great pout..........
Stiletto heels (3 - 4 inches) - elongates the legs helping to ensure you appear taller, slimmer and definitely more glamorous.
Stiletto heels (2 - 2.5 inches) - great for Mother of the Bride/Groom.
Kitten heels and flats - perfect for tall ladies. If you are not used to wearing high heels then stick to what is familiar. Otherwise you will be 'teetering on the brink' and appear unstable on your feet or - worse still - look like you've had too much champagne!
Victorian wedding boots with 'bustle' dresses make a statement and are great for winter weddings.

Also, consider your surroundings - wedge and flat shoes may be more suitable for weddings in gardens or beach weddings for example....

Will my shoes be comfortable all day?

Is there any padding in my shoes?
Are my shoes made with padding/strong soles so I don't feel every 'pebble' when walking?
Is there any slippage on one shoe? (Everyone has one foot bigger than the other). You may like to consider buying a pack of 'party feet' and using just one of the pads under the ball of the foot that is slipping to ensure a comfortable fit or, alternatively, purchasing a product made from memory foam which you can cut to size.

Can I dance in my shoes?

The same as above applies...... However, you may like to consider having two pairs of shoes, one for the day time and one for dancing the night away....

Is the heel height practicable for day wear and evening wear?

Consider the length of your dress - very high stilettos or shoes with crystal embellishments could snag your dress while you are dancing. (Having two pairs of shoes, one for the day time and one for dancing may be the answer).

Are my shoes too high for my partner?

Could wearing 4 inch heels mean you embarrass your partner if you are towering over him during the ceremony or in photographs?
Consider the reverse - wearing flats could mean you are too short and he is towering over you!

Are my shoes suitable for all weather eventualities?

Don't care so long as I am wearing my fabulous shoes!
Consider spraying your shoes with a water repellent such as Scotchguard. Spray 6-8 inches away from the shoes - do not saturate - and allow to dry naturally overnight. Re-spray if you know rain is forecast!
Getting married on a beach? Flat shoes make it easier to walk on sand. Consider spraying with Scotchguard to off-set the effects of salt in the air.
Water sodden grass? Flat shoes ensure you don't destroy delicate stilettos - though they should be sprayed with Scotchguard or similar.

Can I wear my wedding shoes again after my wedding to get the most wear out of them?

If you have sprayed your wedding shoes with a water repellent then they cannot be dyed successfully as spraying the shoes makes them water resistant and therefore the dye won't penetrate as it otherwise would. There are some companies who use 'colour matching' techniques as opposed to a traditional 'dyeing' process which means that any colour applied sits on top of the fabric rather than being absorbed into it.
Purchase good quality dyeable satin wedding shoes to ensure that they can be dyed in any colour after your wedding day.

So you see, choosing comfort on the day doesn't necessarily mean jeopardising your style. Choosing wedding shoes you love doesn't mean that you can't wear them again after your wedding. As I have explained, if you pick good quality, dyeable satin shoes, they can be dyed after your wedding and you can wear them again and again for other special occasions.

Lastly, I would say that if your budget allows - treat yourself to a pedicure to ensure your feet feel silky soft and that your chosen nail polish has been beautifully applied.....

Then, relax and enjoy......

Barbaran is the Author and is dedicated to helping brides, bridesmaids and mother-of-the-bride find the perfect wedding shoes and bridal accessories for their big occasion. For more information a and a vast array of bridal shoes and bridal accessories please visit www.barbaran.co.uk

By Barbaran

Barbaran
http://www.barbaran.co.uk

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Barbaran_Campbell

Pink and Purple Wedding Inspiration

2011-09-01T19:53:00.000-07:00

The Boutonnieres (Button Holes)

2011-08-21T20:10:00.000-07:00

A boutonniere (also known as a buttonhole) is the male equivalent of the corsage worn by a woman. The boutonniere is usually a selection of one or two small flowers on their own or with a bit of fern, greenery or baby's breath. It is worn mostly for formal occasions such as a wedding or prom.

The boutonniere is always pinned to the left lapel of the suit or tuxedo. The groom, best man, groomsmen (ushers), fathers of the bride and the groom wear boutonnieres.

If the bride has someone else escorting her down the aisle, he should also wear a boutonniere. If a woman escorts the bride she should wear a corsage.

The groom's boutonniere can stand out from the rest of the boutonnieres, by selecting a different color for him. If you prefer the groom and his attendants to wear the same color flower, request that the groom's be made with a double flower.

A boutonnières will take on endless well intentioned abuse on a wedding day. The delicate stephanotis and miniature cream rose button holes will look spectacular at first but it will quickly wilt after the countless hugs from your guests. You should select a hardy flower that will not droop easily.

A great alternative to the fresh flower boutonnières is to go for silk or dried flowers such as lavender in spring, or berries for a winter wedding. Instead of wrapping the flower in floral tape, consider using ribbon or an elegant piece of fabric.

Boutonnière flowers are usually selected from the flowers in the bride's bouquet. The colors of the boutonniere should match the general color theme of the wedding. Traditionally the bride's family orders the boutonnieres and has them ready for the groomsmen.

Tip:

If the groom or any of his attendants have severe allergies to flowers consider using a silk boutonniere.

By Harriet Britto
Harriet Britto is the owner of The Wedding Information Site a site that will help you in creating your wedding with your own personal style.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Harriet_Britto

Free Wedding Printables

2011-08-05T19:05:00.000-07:00

Back in March we talked about a truely fanstatic find - Nonpariel Magazine - a free online wedding magazine. Well, you will be happy to know that not only do you get to read the magazine for free, but the wonderful people behind the magazine are also giving away free printable downloads. From invitiations, to decorations and the most adorable candy wrappers you have ever seen, you need to have a look at their free download page!

I really am in love with these candy bar wrappers. What a great budget idea for bonbonniere. You could get some cheap chocolate bars or even buy some yummy (Lindt perhaps?) in bulk, take off their wrappers, and recreate with your own.

Image source: www.nonpareilmag.com

Top 5 Leaving The Reception Songs

2011-08-01T21:34:00.000-07:00

I've Had The Time Of My Life (Dirty Dancing Theme)
Throw Your Arms Around Me by Hunters and Collectors
Closing Time by Semisonic
Stand By Me by Ben E King
New York New York by Frank Sinatra

Bit unsure about the last one, I've never ever heard that at a wedding, but Ideal Bride Magazine have put this list together and we trust them!

Do It Yourself Websites

2011-07-30T01:00:00.000-07:00

Do you need a free wedding website? You should check out ewedding - it has some great features at no cost.

Photo credit: www.ewedding.com

How To Save On Your Veil

2011-07-25T16:58:00.000-07:00

Photo by April Killingsworth

Most brides wear a veil or some kind of headpiece for their wedding, but it is often a piece that is not budgetted for. Veil prices are not included in the dress price and can vary from $100 (for very basic) to $1000 and up (for custom made or designer veils).

They don't have to be this expensive though and there are some great ways to cut down these costs without sacrificing on your overall look.

An easy way to spend nothing on a veil is to use one that has been passed down through the family (as long as the colour matches your dress).

Or … borrow one from a friend. While borrowing a dress may be going a little too far, a friend will be flattered if you ask to borrow their veil.

Make your own. Tule is dirt cheap, and easy to cut and gather (it doesn’t need hemming or ribbon edging, you can just cut it and leave it). The tule can be easily gathered at the top and glued or sewed to hair pins or a hair comb and then use beads, crystals, material flowers, real flowers or any other decorations to cover up where you have attached it to the hair piece. Amy did this (she used a pattern she found on the internet to cut the shape) and her veil cost a total of $12. She had a great time making something herself for her wedding and even though she wouldn't describe herself as a sewer her finished veil looked fabulous. This is a great option if you have detail in your dress and don’t need a lot of detail in your veil.

How To Choose a Dress Maker

2011-07-20T01:00:00.000-07:00

Choosing the wrong dress maker can be costly, especially if you have to get the dress re-worked, or even worse, you dress is ruined at the hands of an amateur. Here are my tips for choosing a good dress maker and potentially saving in the long run:

Only go with a dress maker that you are 100% comfortable with. You may end up paying more to get someone else to fix their mistakes.

Ask to see some of the work they have completed (real life examples, not just a portfolio – look for neatness of stitching, sturdiness and the cleanliness of the finished product).

Ask how long they have been specifically making wedding dresses (not including just doing alterations) and ask if they only go off a pattern, or if they do their own pattern making. Patterns can get expensive, so someone who can do their own will save you.

Ask them how busy they are (while busy-ness is an indication of popularity and possibly how good they are, a rushed dress maker will not give your dress 100% of their attention).

Ask them how many fittings you will need, and when they do their last fitting (you don’t want your last fitting any longer than 4 weeks before your wedding because brides are known for their weight fluctuations, especially in the last few months). If your dress maker won’t do a fitting in the last month before your wedding you may have to pay someone else to do it for you.

Pick a dress maker that does things in the style you are looking for. There is no use going to someone who mainly does big flowing gowns with lots of skirts and puffy sleaves if you want something more sleek and sophisticated. While the dress maker may be adaptable, you want to stick with someone who does this style regularly to avoid costly mistakes.

Photo by AvivJ

Red and Brown Themed Wedding Board

2011-07-15T20:07:00.000-07:00

Free Printable Table Numbers & Cupcake Toppers

2011-07-10T15:23:00.000-07:00

Our last printable freebie was such a big hit we've decided to get our fingers typing and google searching for some more great printables for you.

Click on the picture for a larger image and to see more pictures of the table numbers
Image source: theknottybride.com

Today we have some more beautiful free wedding table number printables for you from The Knotty Bride. These elegant gold inspired numbers go from 1 - 27 and come with the cutest matching cupcake toppers. What a great website The Knotty Bride is, there is some wonderful wedding inspiration to be had over there.

Download the table numbers and cupcake toppers here.

Top Bridal Dance Songs

2011-07-01T21:26:00.000-07:00

Image source: Bensonkua

If I Aint Got You by Alicia Keys
Don't Wanna Miss A Thing by Aerosmith
The Way You Look Tonight by Frank Sinatra
Everything by Michael Buble
This Years Love by David Gray

Ideal Bride Magazine put this greast list together

Free Wedding Organiser Software

2011-06-25T21:50:00.000-07:00

Having trouble keeping e

verying in your wedding planning journey organised? Why not try out our free wedding planner. Using Microsoft Excel this organiser will keep everything from your guest list to your budget to your suppliers in check. It also has a very comprehensive to do list so you won't forget to do anything! Don't waste money on expensive wedding planning software when you can have it all here for free! You can download it completely free here.

Purple Wedding Theme Inspiration Board

2011-06-15T20:01:00.000-07:00

Wedding Dessert Tables

2011-06-10T21:27:00.000-07:00

If there is one trend that is really taking off in 2011, that is dessert tables. Engagment parties, bridal showers, wedding receptions and parties of all sorts are being fully styled by these gorgeous creations that look way too pretty to touch! Here we feature an amazing lilac wedding dessert table by Shauna Younge.

Image source: Shauna Younge

How to Manage Your Wedding Guest List

2011-06-05T21:26:00.000-07:00

Image credit: Eric Magnuson

By Melissa Miville

The wedding guest list can be one of the most daunting tasks of planning a wedding. Mom wants to invite all her friends. Dad wants his 2nd cousin twice removed to be invited. And then there are all of your friends and co-workers that want to come. While these people might all expect to be invited, it does not mean you do need to invite them.

The more guests you invite, the higher the cost of your wedding. You will need a bigger reception site, more food, and favors for all. This all adds up quickly. Cutting down the guest list is one of the easiest ways to cut your wedding costs.

When making your guest list make two separate lists. The "must invites" and the "would like to invites". As people from the first list RSVP that they cannot make it, you can then send invitations to the second list.

When making your lists if you need to think twice about inviting someone, then don't invite them! You are probably not that close to them if you have to think about it.

Just because someone invited you to their wedding does not mean you need to invite them to yours. They may have had a larger budget or a smaller family which allowed them to invite more people. If someone asks why they are not invited just explain that you are keeping things small or that you have a large family to invite.

And one tip when you send out your invitations... number your guest list and then on the back of the RSVP cards write the number that corresponds to that guest. You would be surprised how often guests don't write their name on the RSVP cards! This way if they forget you have a quick way to figure out who it is!

Remember to relax and enjoy this process! Happy planning!

Melissa Miville is owner and event planner of Stylish Occasions by Melissa Miville. Melissa specializes in wedding day coordination as well as full and partial wedding planning. Check out her website and blog at http://www.StylishO.com to get more info.

Top Songs for Cutting The Cake

2011-06-01T21:25:00.000-07:00

Image source: Benson Kua

Thanks again to Ideal Bride Magazine for this great list.

The Sweetest Thing by U2
Never Tear Us Apart by INXS
Sugar Sugar by The Archies
So Beautiful by Pete Murray
It Had To Be You by Harry Connick Jnr

Eastern Themed Wedding

2011-05-25T20:21:00.000-07:00

This beautiful inspiration board comes from the talented Coco and Kelly. If I were to have anyone style my event, it would be this wonderful company. I will be featuring some more of Coco and Kelly's wonderful style in the coming months, with some truely unique ideas for all of the Smart Brides out there. Get ready for some wedding ideas with a twist!

The item on this board are:
Cake stands by Clara French via Style me Pretty
Cupcakes by Eco-chic wedding by Violet Designs via Style me Pretty
Coconut tree by Real Wedding, Lisa Lefkowitz-Part 1 via Style me Pretty.
Earring by Ethnic Rocks via Something Old Something New
Dress from Notte, Marchesa via Something Old Something New.
Clutch from Monya via Something Old Something New.
Orchids via The Knot.
Card via The Knot.
Blue-hued champagne via The Knot.

Engagement Rings With A Difference

2011-05-20T00:13:00.000-07:00

Image source: The Shopping Sherpa

The Shopping Sherpa calls these rings a "slap in the face for the diamond". They certainly are unique, would be a fraction of the price of an expensive gemstone, and wouldn't need the care and cleaning of a traditional diamond. Would you go for a cheaper non-gemstone alternative? Visit the Shopping Sherpa for details on where to get these unique rings.

Pink Wedding Theme

2011-05-15T19:51:00.000-07:00

5 Tips For Saving On Your Wedding Invitations

2011-05-10T19:19:00.000-07:00

Image source: Blush Printables

1. Save on postage by ensuring your invitations will fit a standard sized envelope.

2. Make your own wedding invitations. Go to stationary shops, printers or on-line to get ideas and then have an invitation assembling party with your friends or family. Or, buy some nice paper (already printed with a colour or design) and envelopes and print up our own invitations on your own or a friend’s printer.

3. Make a websitefor your wedding, and either send out emails or basic invites by mail directing your guests to the website. You will save a lot on postage this way.

4. Go into a stationary store and pick out some paper that you like.Look on the bottom or the back of the paper, as it will generally have the wholesaler or designer’s details together with copyright information printed here. Note down these details and then use the internet to find the contact details for the wholesaler or designer and see if they sell direct (many will for a lot cheaper than the retailer’s price).

5. Ask around to find out who the major wholesalers are in your city.For example, Wedding Stationery Supplies (at 30 Rokeby St Collingwood) supply stationary to over 300 stationary retailers in Melbourne including Papermarc and Starfish Lane. They also do professional printing (although you can also do yours yourself to save some more $). Don’t expect all glam and glitter and you may have to go to a warehouse and plough through isles of shelves and boxes to find what you want. Also, be sure to ask if they cut to size for you, a lot will for free (so don’t forget to measure up before you go!).

Wedding Invitation Samples

2011-05-05T19:12:00.000-07:00

Formal, elegant, quirky, timeless, colour coordinated, monograms, photos.... the options for your wedding invitations are endless! And then once you've chosen your invitation, what do you write on them? Well I have found a wonderful Squidoo site that has some great invitiation samples as well as invitation wording. Great inspiration for your invitations and invitation wording! Stay tune for some great tips for saving on your wedding invitations.

http://www.squidoo.com/weddinginvitationwording

Top 5 Leaving The Church / Aisle Songs

2011-05-01T21:22:00.000-07:00

Thank you to Ideal Bride Magazine for this great list.

Beautiful Day by U2
Somewhere Over The Rainbow by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole
Better Together by Jack Johnson
Crazy Little Thing Called Love by Michael Buble
Steal My Kisses by Ben Harper

Wedding Inspiration!

2011-04-29T21:39:00.000-07:00

Image source: www.oncewed.com

Do you need some easy wedding inspiration? Once Wed have an awesome section of their website where you can look at pictures - what better inspiration than to look at what someone else has already done? You can look at photos by section such as bride, flowers, bridesmaids, beauty ... you get the idea. Who knows, you might find something that you never thought of, a different way of doing something, or come across an idea for a cheaper alternative. Get inspired brides!

Gorgeous Gowns R Us Sample Sale

2011-04-27T22:37:00.000-07:00

St Ives showroom Sydney. Sample and designer wedding gowns are on sale. Receive a free veil or tiara with every purchase, until June 30th.

The Value of the Wedding Photo Booth

2011-04-22T00:54:00.000-07:00

Author: Tom Petropolous

Photo booths have made it easy to capture those special moments, and with the latest developments in the booths, the end results are definitely worth the effort. The booths are installed with professional photography equipment designed to give you photos of high quality. It is now a common thing to find these economic and time-saving booths at events such as weddings.

The photo booths can provide black and white or color photos depending on the preferences of the individuals taking the photos. What better way to treat your guests than to give them the instant photo experience? Most people like the black and white photos, which never go out of fashion. It is highly unlikely that you will go to a wedding these days and not see a photo booth as more and more people realize just how important it is to get one for those special moments.

Wedding photo booths have lots of value in terms of time and money. This is because the photos are produced almost instantly and you can actually have your guests take these special photos that will last forever. It also saves money as it is possible to rent a photo booth at a very affordable price compared to having multiple photographers capturing those special moments at your wedding.

The photo booths come with customized settings whereby it is possible to choose from a variety of options which can include choosing a logo to go with the photo, dates, text and even names. It is even possible to choose the kind of backdrop you want for your photo with the photo booths, which is something that you can’t do with ordinary cameras.

Apart from having the liberty to choose the different settings to go with your photos, the photo booth also encourages socializing as there is always a line of guests waiting to get into the booth and have their photos taken. The booths take a large number of photos within one hour compared to other types of cameras and the best thing is that your guests will have the chance to take their photos behind curtains where they have enough privacy to take the pictures however they please.

This is one great accessory to have during your wedding and it comes in different sizes and shapes depending on what you think will suit the event best. Most professional photographers are now investing in this accessory and normally take it with them to the events to which they have been invited to make them as fun as they should be when making those lasting memories.

Are you looking for something exciting in the world of photo booth rental? The Capture Pod was born to create a photo booth that was sleek, elegant and quite different from all the rest. At Capture Event, we steered away from the traditional wedding photo booth with its’ sharp edges and dark exterior. When you rent photo booth from us, we create a unique experience that reflects your vision.

Image credit: Michael Glasgow (thank you Michael for sharing this with us!)

Wedding Dress Sale @ The Bridal Centre

2011-04-19T19:11:00.000-07:00

Take a look at the Bridal Centre's Sale Calalogue - they really do have some great discounts on gorgeous gowns. Most reductions are between $200-$500 and the gown style is in season. The sale is for online purchases only, but there would be nothing stopping you going in store and trying on the wedding dress before ordering online (Melbourne store).
http://www.thebridalcentre.com.au

Win a $10,000 Getaway!

2011-04-14T21:22:00.000-07:00

Body+Soul are offering a $10,000 escape to a spa resort in Cable Beach WA. What a perfect de-stressor before your wedding. Enter at www.bodyandsoul.com.au and good luck!

Lily Allen To Wear Chanel

2011-04-12T20:17:00.000-07:00

Photo by Music Like Dirt

Lily Allen, who is planning a June 11 wedding to Sam Cooper will be all dressed up in Chanel, or so the rumors have it. It makes sense Lily performed in Chanel's show in 2010 and fronted their handbag campaign in 2009. Can't wait to see the photos!

Reese Witherspoon Wedding Photos

2011-04-10T02:54:00.000-07:00

Image source: People Magazine (click on the image for a large picture and to go to the People article)

Reese Witherspoon and Jim Toth tied the knot on March 26th after a December engagement and her photos have just been published in People magazine. Reese chose a pink Monique Lhuillier gown with Jim in a Rag & Bone suit. Reese wore Jimmy Choo’s Macy satin platform sandals and then switched from her wedding gown to the more traditional white for the party. It's refreshing to see a celebrity make her wedding photos and details accessible to the public, go Reese!

Wedding Dress Sale @ Basilica Couture

2011-04-09T22:28:00.000-07:00

From now until the end of April, grab up to 50% off the The Pronuptia Paris range.
Basilica Couture, 206 Victoria Road, Sydney

The Royal Mews prepares for the Royal Wedding

2011-04-08T15:42:00.000-07:00

If you're anything like me, you're holding onto your seat waiting for the Royal wedding. How doesn't it compare to your wedding preparations? Well, take the transport for instance, how much planning has gone into your wedding transport, compared to this? Wow, if only we had a queen to pay for our day, and a huge team to organise it all for us! But, as much as we can look on from afar and goo and gar, your wedding day will be just as amazing (or probably even better) just because it is yours. In the meantime, here is some wedding transport eye candy!

Top Songs For Walking Down the Aisle

2011-04-05T21:13:00.000-07:00

According to the Ideal Bride magazine the top 5 songs for walking down the aisle (also called processional songs) are:

Amazed by Lonestar
I Swear by All for One
Canon in D by Pachabel
The Prayer by Andrea Boccelli
I'm Yours by Jason Mraz

Prince William's Bucks Night This Weekend

2011-04-01T15:36:00.000-07:00

Image via Us magazine.

Prince William, Prince Harry, and their friends are set to be out on the town in London this weekend for his bachelor party, reports Us magazine. With the wedding just over a month away and a bill topping the $2 million mark the countdown is on and nerves are getting high, report friends of Kate Middleton. You can read more about the coming wedding at the Royal Wedding Website.

Discount Skin Treatments & Make-up - Melbourne

2011-03-25T20:22:00.000-07:00

Image source: oxygenskincentre.com.au

Oxygen Skin Centre are giving brides to be the indulgence steal of a lifetime - over $400 worth of pampering for only $140! To celebrate the opening of their new Harbour Town location (Melbourne Docklands) they're offering 90-minutes of pampering, including a skin analysis, facial, full body polish, eye massage and makeup application using DMK cosmetics. I have experienced an Oxygen facial and it really is something special.
This offer is valid for a short time only, so get in quick! Contact them for more details at:
http://www.oxygenskincentre.com.au/

Blue Wedding Inspiration

2011-03-23T21:49:00.000-07:00

One of my favourite wedding blogs is oncewed.com. And, on their website they have this awesome section where you can look at photographs of real weddings, by colour! So if you are thinking of blue bridesmaids dresses for example, you can look through the blue section and get some ideas as to what shades might work best, and how to incorporate this into other areas of your wedding. Brilliant! So today we are featuring "blue". Check out oncewed's amazing gallery.
(Below is a screenshot of what you can expect).

Image source: oncewed.com

Natalie Portman's Engagement Ring

2011-03-17T20:17:00.000-07:00

Oooo, how we love a bit of celebrity style! Natalie Portman got engaged to Benjamin Millepied in December and they are expecting their first baby later this year. How lucious is that ring?

Image source: celebritybrideguide.com

A Free Wedding Magazine

2011-03-10T18:57:00.000-08:00

Image source: www.nonpareilmag.com

And the free stuff keeps on rolling! We are just delighted with this wonderful find - a free online wedding magazine - Nonpareil Magazine. The design of this magazine is just gorgeous and the content is equally fantastic with contributions from event managers, wedding planners, make up artists, photographers... you get the picture. Its full of inspiration and do it yourself tutorials. I am particularly in love with the Mr and Mrs table runner (page 18) with this issue being a From Farm to Table feature. The next issue is titled Fashionably Wed - I can't wait for that one!

Wedding Dress Sale @ Brides of Manuka (Canberra)

2011-03-09T19:05:00.000-08:00

Image source: www.bridesofmanuka.com.au

Brides of Manuka are exclusive stockists for Maggie Sottero Bride and Wendy Makin Bridal Designs. Their sale rack have wedding dresses all under $1000 and veils and bridesmaids dresses at only $99. Absolute bargain! You can even view their sale items online.
http://www.bridesofmanuka.com.au/

The Best Wedding Cake of 2010 ...

2011-03-08T20:20:00.000-08:00

... as decided by celebritybrideguide.com. Mmmmm... too good to eat!

From top left (clockwise): Alexa Vega, Chris Duhon, Candice Woodcock, Bethany Frankel, Odette, Yustman, Hilary Duff.

Image source: celebritybrideguide.com

Wedding Dress Saving Tip #2

2011-03-01T21:43:00.000-08:00

Skip the wedding dress shops altogether and buy from a normal formal shop. Many formal shops have gorgeous gowns in various shades, including white, (although who ever said a wedding dress has to be “white”?). Wedding retailers, including wedding dress retailers generally put substantial mark-ups on their products so shopping at a non-wedding store can save you a pile.

Bridal Couture Sample Sale - Sydney

2011-02-28T16:14:00.000-08:00

Image source: www.bridalecouture.com.au

Join a collection of Sydney’s finest wedding dress designers, wedding dresses, bridesmaids dresses, evening gowns, wedding jewellery and wedding shoe designers in one location for a one day only sale on 11th July 2010 from 11 – 4pm at The Menzies Sydney, 14 Carrington St, Sydney CBD opposite Wynyard Station. For more information please see the Bridal Couture Sample Sale website.

Bridal Couture Sample Sale - Melbourne

2011-02-21T16:21:00.000-08:00

Image source: www.bridalcouturesamplesale.com

Join a collection of Melbourne’s finest wedding dress designers, wedding dresses, bridesmaids dresses, evening gowns, wedding jewellery and wedding shoe designers in one location for a one day only sale 4th July 2010 from 11 – 4pm at the Bayview Eden Melbourne, 6 Queens Road Melbourne. Free parking available all day! For more information see the Bridal Couture Sample Sale website.

Free Printable Table Numbers

2011-02-14T20:06:00.000-08:00

Image source: i-do-it-yourself.com

Don't you just love free stuff? These beautiful printable garland table numbers are totally free for you to download and use at your wedding. You can get your little hands on some here, courtesy of the awesome i-do-it-yourself.com website. If you like the idea but not the colour, you could easily make your own using MSWord and some vintage paper from a scrapbooking shop. Happy printing!

South Australia - 10% off photography packages

2011-02-10T20:13:00.000-08:00

Ribbonz have 10% off + free coffee album for all Wedding Photography Package bookings made before 30th April 2011. See the link for more details. http://www.weddinghouse.com.au/wedding-directory/wedding-dresses-bridal-wear/adelaide-surrounding-suburbs/ribbonz/

Only One Week Until Valentine's Day!

2011-02-07T21:22:00.000-08:00

Have you got your valentines day organised yet? If you're anything like me, it will happen the day before. But not this year! I have spyed these gorgeous love notes in a bottle from NoteMaker and Paper Scissors Rock Stationary. Totally loving this idea! Simple, yet from the heart.

Image source: www.notemaker.com.au

Purple Wedding Theme Inspiration Board

2011-02-04T20:12:00.000-08:00

Discount Bridal Bouquet

2011-02-01T16:04:00.000-08:00

How Divine is running a competition where Rockhampton brides can win 50% off their bouqet! See their facebook page for more details.

Image source: www.howdivine.com.au

2010 Celebrity Weddings

2011-01-28T19:27:00.000-08:00

Now seems like a good time to wrap up the celebrity weddings for 2010 - and there were quite a few! The Bride Blog has a great list of 2010 celebrity weddings, perhaps you could get some inspiration from these? (Or perhaps you'll just look and drool!)

Truely Original Bomboniere

2011-01-25T20:27:00.000-08:00

Amadore Bomboniere are totally gorgeous, I just had to share them with you. Just look at this beautiful bombiniere cake. Wow! They have 15% off all of their goods for their facebook fans until the end of January, so get to their facebook page!

Image source: www.amadore.com.au

Brisbane - Wedding Dress Sales

2011-01-18T18:05:00.000-08:00

Brisbane brides - get your discounted wedding dress now! 'Bridal' in Fortitude Valley is currently having a flood clearance sale, and BellaDonna by Wendy Makin in Woolloongabba is having their sample, factory seconds and excess stock clearance. Grab a bargain!

Image source: belladonnagowns.com.au

Wedding Dress Saving Tip #1

2011-01-12T21:33:00.000-08:00

Go shopping at a discount outlet. Many high profile designers also have outlets for the sale of old season and surplus stock. These dresses are not necessarily old or out of date, they just be an old design (by the designer's standards), the last of a particular design, surpless stock or ex window display stock.

Do a web search of factory outlets to find them in your state, or use one of Pamm’s discount guides (available for Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane) or www.factoryoutletshopping.com.au. If you have a favourite designer you could also call their shopfront and ask if they have an outlet or if they onsell old stock to any other outlet retailers.

A Wedding Dress Sample Sale!

2011-01-10T19:49:00.000-08:00

Akina Bridal Couture and Vellos Bridal, both of Sydney are currently having their sample sales. See their websites for locations and contact details, and get in quick before someone else buys your dress!

http://www.akinabridalcouture.com.au/
http://www.vellosbridal.com.au/

Image source: Akina Bridal Couture

How to Choose a Wedding Photographer

2011-01-06T20:17:00.000-08:00

Wikihow has a neat little article about how to choose your wedding photographer, a simple and straight forward read. Check it out here.

Top Songs for Signing The Registry

2011-01-05T21:18:00.000-08:00

The top 5 songs for signing the registry (thanks to Ideal Bride Magazine) are:

Beautiful In My Eyes by Joshua Kadison
How Do I Live by Trisha Yearwood
Have I Told You Lately by Van Morrison
At Last by Etta James
You 'N Me by Lifehouse

50% Off Name Change Kits!

2011-01-01T20:44:00.000-08:00

After The Wedding have 50% off their name change kits until Sunday - so get in fast and grab yourself a bargain!

Green And Brown Wedding Colour Inspiration

2011-01-01T19:48:00.000-08:00

I have just discovered the wonderful work of Anne Ruthmann and will be showcasing some of her work over the rest of the year. She has put together some fantastic inspiration photo boards by theme and colour, so get ready to be inspired!

The Gift That Keeps on Giving

2010-11-30T20:28:00.000-08:00

Bonbonniere and favors: make the most of what you spend on bonbonniere and favors by going fair trade, what a great idea from The Bride Blog.

Photo credit: The Bride Blog

Wanted: Off beat brides!

2010-10-19T20:00:00.000-07:00

Offbeat Australian couples for unique wedding photos and wedded portraits are wanted by Offbeat Bride. Whether you're about to get married or are willing to get into your wedding garb again, Angelica Peady Photography wants you!

Photo credit: Angelica Peady Photograhy, Offbeat Bride

Free Labels!

2010-06-20T20:31:00.000-07:00

Do you need some labels for your invitations, envelopes, table settings, thankyous or even Christmas presents? Or perhaps just some colour inspiration! Download your free labels, courtesy of Little Sigthings!