Wedding Planning

Wedding Planning

How to Store and Hang Your Wedding Dress Before the Big Day

by Cassandra Key on Nov 28 2018

Photo by Bryan Schneider from Pexels Have you found your wedding dress months before the big day? If so, you might be wondering how to properly store and hang your gown so that it doesn't get wrinkled, stained, or worse - ripped! No worries, bride-to-be. Here are our top tips on how to keep your dream dress in tip-top shape while counting down to your wedding day. Take it Out of the Plastic Plastic does not allow the dress to breathe, and some plastics contain chemicals that can stain the dress. Better to be safe than sorry and take your dress out of its plastic bag before hanging or storing. Keep it Covered After you have taken the dress out of the plastic, you can keep it as clean as possible by covering it with a cloth garment bag or a clean, dry sheet. Hang Your Dress Hanging the dress will keep it from losing its shape and will also give wrinkles time to fall out. Before you hang, consider the weight of your dress. Heavy dresses with lots of layers, beadwork, and/or embellishments need extra care. For an extra heavy dress, consider laying it flat in a garment bag and storing underneath or on top of a bed. Be sure and air it out 36 hours before the wedding day. Hanging Tips For any wedding dress, use a strong hanger with silk padding to prevent damage to the sleeves or straps. Don't hang your dress on or near ceiling fans or light fixtures. If possible allow it to hang freely and not touch the floor or walls. This will allow the dress to more easily keep its shape and prevent rips, burns, and discoloration. Restrict activity near where the dress is hanging. The less activity, the less dirt will make its way to your beautiful gown. Consider closing the door and hanging a sign that says something like, 'Caution: Wedding Gown Inside'. Close windows and doors, and don't hang your dress near a window, as the sunlight can damage the color. Don't hang the gown in damp places like attics and cellars. The ideal temperature should be between 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit. If you don't have a proper place to hang your gown, you can ask a bridal salon or dry cleaner to store your dress for a fee.

Wedding Planning

A Frosty Pastel Winter Wedding Inspiration Board

by Cassandra Key on Nov 25 2018

Think pastels are just for spring celebrations? Think again! If you're planning a winter wedding, and especially around the holidays, you should definitely consider choosing a frosty pastel color palette. It's whimsical and dreamy and a sweet alternative to the traditional red and green/silver and gold palettes. There are so many ways to incorporate icy pastels into your winter wedding. We could have spent hours on Pinterest collecting all the inspiration! But since time is limited, we've put together pretty pastel wedding inspo board with some of our favorite ideas. Take a look at all of the incredible pastel wedding treats, decor, and even an ieie Bridal blush pink wedding gown that will have you dancing through a sugar plum dream. Photo Credits - Dessert Table: Glorious Treats || Flatware: Kelsea Holder Photography via Style Me Pretty || Cupcakes: Cupcakes A Diario || Christmas Centerpiece: Family Holiday || Flower Arrangements: Citrus and Orange || Bouquet: Belle the Magazine || Pink Lace Mermaid Wedding Dress || Gingerbread Latte: Espresso Coffee Dreams

Wedding Planning

5 Wedding Activities You Probably Haven't Heard of Yet

by Cassandra Key on Nov 21 2018

Photo by Nicole Honeywill on Unsplash Like most things in the entertainment and lifestyle sectors, wedding trends come and go. Some are silly, some are fun, some stick around for more than a few seasons. We've seen everything from white wedding gowns (this wasn't a thing until 1900!) and metallic decor (huge in the 1960's) to DIY weddings and doughnut walls. For couples and wedding industry professionals alike, the questions is always, 'What's next?' And though it is important to keep some things classic (what will your wedding photos look like 20 years from now?), it's also fun to include some cool trends into the big day. We've gathered five wedding-related trends you might not have heard of yet, but will likely see more of and want to plan yourself. Temporary Tattoos and Tattoo Stations Photo by Moment Studio via Junebug Weddings Temporary tattoos have been popular within bridal showers and bachelorette parties for a few years, and now they've made their way into weddings. Wedding parties don matching tattoos and couples set up temp tattoo stations for guests. It's interactive and makes for fun photo opportunities. Bouquet Paintings Painting by This Creative Nest A classic way to preserve the bridal bouquet is to dry out the petals and place in a shadow box, and although beautiful, brides are taking it up an artistic notch by having artists paint their bouquets on canvas and paper. From there, paintings can be turned into prints and even transferred to silk scarves. Interesting Accessories Photo by Jordan Voth via Green Wedding Shoes Veils are timeless and flower crowns are hardly on their way out, but brides are now mixing up their options by incorporating hats and chokers into their bridal attire. Hats are a great alternative for boho brides who are over the flower trend and for those going for a vintage look. And chokers can replace statement necklaces and add a bit of flair to chic, modern wedding gowns. Pop-up Weddings Photo by Pop! Wed Co via A Practical Wedding The main purpose of a pop-up wedding is to make a wedding more feasible and affordable for a couple. These kind of weddings are great for traveling couples, couples with a small budget, and for those who just don't want to put a lot of time into planning a huge party. There are some companies that offer pop-up services and provide you with a location, photographer, celebrant, etc. But you can definitely DIY your own pop-up by basically choosing a place and showing up. It's kind of like an elopement and is as easy as Thanksgiving pie. After Parties Photo by Marcus Meisler via Brides Ain't no party like an after party! And the best thing about an after party is that you don't really have to plan it (because we know you've already had enough of that!). Just let your guests know that the festivities won't end after the reception. As for what to do at a wedding after party, you might keep the bar open and the tunes flowing for close friends and relatives, have a bonfire on the beach, chill in the hotel lobby and drink more champagne, hire a food truck for late night snacks, etc.

Wedding Planning

Reasons to Love ieie Bridal

by Cassandra Key on Nov 18 2018

When you shop online for a wedding gown, you want to feel secure in your purchase. You want to know that you're getting the best price, the best quality, and that you're communicating with professionals who have your best interest in mind. There are plenty of horror stories of brides who found their dream dress online only to receive something totally different and of horrible quality. We don't want you to be one of those horror stories! ieie Bridal strives to bring beautiful bespoke wedding dresses to its brides-to-be. We know how important your gown is to you and that it's a once in a lifetime kind of item. Because of that, we offer you a safe and secure shopping experience and one that allows you to bring your dream dress to life. Whether you've just stumbled upon us or someone recommended you check out our offerings, we are glad you're here and hope to help you find exactly what you need to complete your bridal look. Here are some more reasons we think you'll love shopping with us: Wedding Couture at an Affordable Price Dresses are hand sewn and individually crafted by our artisan tailors. We want your dress to fit perfectly and make you feel like a million bucks. And because our store is exclusively online, we pass all the savings from operating a retail store (advertising, rent, unsold inventory, etc.) directly to you. This means every dollar you spend on the dress actually goes into your dress. Customized Dresses Our mission is to create a wedding dress that is as unique as you are. Whether it's a customized dress based on our current designs or your personal vision, your wedding gown will be an expression of you and what you find beautiful. Ultimate Convenience The beauty of shopping online is that you save precious time by not having to travel back and forth to a store. We communicate your dress details with you via email and guide you step by step through the entire process. No worries! Luxe Accessories From veils and cloaks to jeweled brooches and hair combs, we offer affordable bridal accessories that look and feel luxurious. We have pieces to satisfy both the trendsetter and the classic bride. Even More Dresses! We don't stop at wedding gowns; we also offer bridesmaid dresses, cocktail dresses, and dresses you can wear to any kind of special event, be it formal or casual. And just like our wedding gowns, we can customize any of our other dresses, ensuring you get exactly what you want. ieie Bridal truly is a one-stop-shop for all your wedding and special event needs. Build your bridal attire one piece at a time or complete your look with a veil or accessory. Whatever you need, feel free to reach out to our team and we'll make sure the dress shopping process is as easy for you as, "I do!"

Wedding Planning

7 Ways to Make Your Wedding Sparkle Like a Disco Ball

by Cassandra Key on Nov 11 2018

There's something about the holiday season that gets people crazy for all things glitter and sparkle. Christmas is filled with sparkling decorations, New Year's Eve is all about glitter-dipped champagne glasses and giant disco balls, and then there's the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, which features a glittering catwalk and million dollar bejeweled bra. Whether you're planning a holiday season wedding or not, if you love yourself some sparkle we have a few ideas on how you can create a glittering wedding look that's chic and luxurious, but not too over the top. Send Some Sparkle Set a twinkling tone by sending guests glittering invitations. Shiny metallic wedding invitations with glitter-lined envelopes are a cool combo. Invitations by Flair Necessities Subtle Sparkle Decor Use glitter stickers on favor packaging, top cupcakes and cake with glittering letters, hang a sparkling banner or set up a shining sign at the dessert table. Photo via One Fab Day Dress the Tables Deck out the tables in sequin tablecloths or runners and/or use sequined fabric as a backdrop for photos. Photo by Rachel Solomon Photography via Style Me Pretty Too Pretty to Eat Incorporate edible glitter into your desserts! Photo by Jamilah Photography via Mon Cheri Bridals Shine On! Wear sparkle in your hair by tucking a crystal comb into your do or pin a sparkling brooch to your bridal bouquet. Starry Night Light up the night with sparklers. Photo by Duke Photography via Strictly Weddings The Gift of Glitter Send guests home with some glitter of their own by gifting glitter-dipped mini champagne bottles and disco ball keychains. Photo by Gillian Ellis Photography via A Coastal Bride

Wedding Planning

The Best Small Wedding Ideas for a Sweet and Simple Celebration

by Cassandra Key on Nov 07 2018

With the rise of millennial couples planning weddings that infuse lots of personal details and mix and match traditions and trends, the small/intimate wedding is a popular choice. Not only is it much easier to plan a wedding that's smaller in size, it's often more affordable - and we can all use a bit more cash (save those bucks for the honeymoon!). An intimate wedding also offers couples the opportunity to get creative with details (more time, energy, and $$ to put towards personalization) and celebrate with only the nearest and dearest friends and family (way easier to engage with everyone during the reception). The best part about a small wedding is that it becomes more of a celebration and less of a production. So many couples feel like they have to impress their guests with lavish decor, food, and entertainment. The actual reason for the wedding gets lost in questions like, 'How will this look on Instagram?' An intimate wedding allows couples to forget the hype and focus on the love, the gathering, and the beauty of a party meant just for them. Small and Intimate Wedding Ideas Whatever your budget, you can create a charming, personalized day for you and your guests. Here are some of our favorite fun and unique intimate wedding ideas. Hire a food truck to cater your wedding. With so many amazing chefs creating mouthwatering menus that come straight out of a truck, there's no reason not to consider this option. You could even consult with your favorite food truck owner on creating a specialty menu for your reception. Let your photographer work her magic and capture moments (like a group photo including all of your guests) that aren't possible with a large wedding. Create an incredible memory by hosting your wedding at an unexpected venue. Depending on your guest list size, venues might include art galleries, a local brewery, natural areas like forests, a rooftop, botanical garden, aquarium, glamping area, etc. Be your own DJ by creating a reception playlist that includes your guests' favorite songs. Include a line on your RSVP card that gives guests the option to write down their wedding song request. Just like your wedding, your entertainment can pack a punch in a petite way. Think mariachi bands, jazz groups, live painters, expert wine tasters, fire eaters, tarot card readers...the possibilities! Just keep your crowd in mind and think about what they'll enjoy. Create a lounge area where guests can relax after dinner. Not everyone will want to dance, after all. Leave a personalized note at each guests' seat along with a small token of gratitude: a mini bouquet or plant, box of chocolates, mug with local coffee roast, etc. Depending on your guest list size, you might consider using family items like silverware, tea sets, and linens. Your small wedding can be as imaginative, classical, or whimsical as you want it to be. It's your celebration and those you cherish most will be there with you to clink champagne glasses and enjoy the beauty of an intimate affair.

Wedding Planning

Cozy Hygge Autumn Wedding Ideas

by Cassandra Key on Nov 04 2018

Have you heard of hygge? It's a Norwegian word that roughly translates to 'cozy.' It's more of an idea, really, a feeling. Olivia Goldhill wrote in her article for Quartz that hygge evokes a sense of intimacy, togetherness, and inner warmth. "A world lit by candles and snuggled under blankets." So dreamy! And so perfect for couples planning an autumn wedding. We encourage you to take on this mindset while planning your cold-weather wedding. How can you make it more cozy, more intimate? How can you infuse your celebration with hygge? Here are some ideas to get you started. Rich Fall Color Palette What colors come to mind when you think of the word 'cozy'? We recommend rich, bold, and earthy tones: burgundy, berry, gold, amber, cream, sage, brown, green, etc. Play around with the combinations to create anything from rustic cozy to hygge with a touch of luxe. Photo via Pinterest Cozy Wedding Decor It's all about comfort and lighting when it comes to decorating a hygge wedding. Think chunky blankets, rugs, pillows, candles (and more candles!), lanterns, twinkling lights, wood logs, leaves, autumn fruit, acorns and pine cones, pumpkins, and wooden tables and chairs. And if your venue has a fireplace, even better! Photo via Inside Weddings SCENTsational Food and Beverages Fill the air with warm autumn scents that will make guests’ mouths water: cinnamon sticks and vanilla, caramel apples, mini pies, chai tea and coffee, mulled spiced wine, wooden boards stacked with baked brie and rosemary sourdough, roasted vegetables, seasoned chicken, belly-warming beef stew... Are you hungry yet? Photo via Inspired by This Cozy Wedding Favors Give your wedding guests something cozy to take home so they can get into the hygge spirit. They'll love favors like blankets, jars of honey or homemade jam, mugs of hot chocolate or local coffee brews, vanilla/cinnamon/pumpkin spice soap, candles, hand warmers, flannel cup cozies, and warm-scented potpourri. Photo via Brit + Co Don't you just love these autumn wedding ideas? And the best part is that you can take this hygge inspiration and incorporate it into your life, as well. After the wedding, use the candles and decor in your home, cook a delicious hot meal, and snuggle with your sweetie under a blanket.

Wedding Planning

Bridal Shower Thank You Note Etiquette

by Cassandra Key on Oct 07 2018

As a bride, you don't have to take a lot of responsibility as far as the bridal shower goes. Typically, your friends and family will plan and host this traditional celebration. But there is one thing you must do besides show up, open presents, and have fun - write a thank you note! Here are some etiquette tips on how to write a bridal shower thank you note that will truly show your appreciation. Be prompt! Don't keep putting off writing and sending your thank you notes. The longer you wait, the less you'll remember and guests will start to wonder if you actually enjoy the gifts they gave you. Bridal shower thank you notes should be sent two to three weeks after the shower. A basic thank you note template includes: addressing the guest expressing gratitude for the specific gift the guest gave thanking her for attending the party Remember, no duplicating the same message for each guest! And try and be as specific as possible. More specific notes are personal, warm, and tailored to each person. So instead of writing a generic “Thank you for the gift,” write something like, “Thank you for the amazing blender! I made smoothies for the future Mr. and I this morning." A Note on Cash Gifts If you receive a cash gift, there’s no need to state the exact amount in the thank you note - just mention how you might use it. For example, "Thank you so much for the money you gifted me. It will definitely help me stock up on some beautiful linens for the new house." What if a guest didn't bring a gift? If a guest attends your bridal shower and does not bring a gift, you still need to write a thank you note. Let her know that you appreciated her attending and you're thankful that she was able to share the special moment with you. How to Address a Bridal Shower Thank You Note Address the note to whomever's name was signed on the card that came with the gift. For example, if Meghan signed the card, you would send the thank you to Meghan. But, if Meghan signed the card “Meghan and Joey” you would address and send the note to Meghan and Joey. Before you mail your thank you notes remember to: Re-check the spelling of guest names and addresses Make sure you’ve matched the right gift with the right guest

Wedding Planning

7 Yummy Fall Coffee Recipes That Aren't Pumpkin Spice

by Cassandra Key on Oct 03 2018

Whether you're planning on offering a coffee station at your wedding/bridal shower/engagement party/etc. or are just looking for a tasty and toasty new fall favorite, we've got ya covered. Not to say we're giving up on pumpkin spice lattes, but with so many other amazing concoctions out there, how can you not give them a spin? Pick out your go-to mug and get ready to sip on these creative and oh-so tasty fall coffee mixes. Gingerbread Coffee Recipe by Kristine's Kitchen Blog Cashew Coffee Recipe by Pinch of Yum French Pressed Spiced Vanilla Latte Recipe by Pinch Me I'm Eating Almond Coconut Chai Tea Latte Recipe by Berry Sweet Life Dairy Free Cinnamon Roll Latte Recipe by Easy GF Recipes Brown Sugar Cardamon Latte Recipe by Fox and Briar Hot Buttered Rum Coffee Recipe by Harry and David