Unnecessary Wedding Expenses

Everyone knows that weddings can be expensive. What you might not know, however, is that they’re often more costly than they really have to be. There are quite a few wedding expenses that, at their core, are unnecessary. So, if you’re looking to save, consider cutting these non-necessities from your budget.

Floral Arrangements

When you think of weddings, you probably think of flowers, but a lot of brides and grooms are cutting back on floral expenses. This is especially common in warm, sunny places like Maui, where over-the-top arrangements can quickly wilt and wither. You can have fewer flowers than the average wedding or get rid of floral arrangements in favor of other, more affordable decorations and decor.

Paper Invitations

In the past, couples spent hours, or even days, poring over wedding invitations to find the perfect option. Nowadays, however, paper invitations aren’t a requirement. Online invites or RSVP websites are becoming more and more common. Not only do they cut down on paper waste, but they’re also more affordable for the bride and groom. For even more savings, you can also nix paper programs. Just give your guests a QR code or point them to a website where they can access an online program.

Wedding Favors

While guests may enjoy a wedding souvenir in the moment, they probably won’t keep it forever. So, why should you spend big money on small favors? You can share wedding photos with your guests, send thoughtful cards afterwards, or just share a special moment where you say “thank you” to each attendee. All of these things can be a lot more meaningful (and a lot more affordable) than traditional wedding favors.

There’s no rule that says you have to pull out all the stops or spend every penny you have on your wedding. In fact, there are no real wedding rules at all. You’re free to make your own choices about what counts as a “must-have” on your wedding day. So, with that in mind, feel free to buck tradition and do what feels right to you.

How to Truly Enjoy Your Wedding Day

If you’re like most people, you’ve probably spent your entire life dreaming of the day you say “I do.” However, people are often surprised at just how much stress and work a wedding involves. If you’re feeling the pressure of pulling off a perfect wedding, take a deep breath. Your big day should be a day you enjoy and cherish, and these tips can help.

Let Go of Perfectionism

First things first, give yourself a pre-wedding reality check. Let go of the idea that your wedding is going to be a perfect fairytale where nothing goes wrong. Chances are that one or two things will not go according to plan. If you can accept this fact and let yourself be okay with it, you’ll enjoy your wedding a whole lot more.

Eat, Drink, and Be Merry

Many brides and grooms feel pressure to get fit and look their best on their wedding day. That’s perfectly fine and understandable. But, on the day itself, let go and enjoy. Eat all the cake you want, drink plenty of champagne, and count the memories, not the calories.

Give Yourself Some Down Time

Your wedding day will probably involve a ton of movement, activity, and socialization, all of which can get exhausting. Thus, give yourself a little time to just relax and breathe. You could start your morning with some meditation. Or, if you’re getting married somewhere like Maui, take a morning walk on the beach. Also, create a little hideout where you can go whenever you need a quick break or breather throughout the day. This can also come in handy for stealing a few quiet moments (and some quick kisses) with your partner.

Even if you follow all this advice perfectly, you may still experience some stress on your wedding day, and that’s okay. Things can be both fun and stressful, and a wedding is a major event. Give yourself some grace, focus on the positive, and try your best to have a good time at all times. That’s really the key to creating wonderful wedding memories.

Ideas for a Delicious Wedding Cake

The wedding cake is a long-held tradition, and everyone expects it to taste amazing. But, what if you want something other than bland vanilla or basic buttercream? Luckily for you, wedding cake flavors have come a long way in recent years, and it’s easy to find something different, unique, and totally delicious.

Combine Carrot with Chocolate

Carrot cake is yummy. Chocolate cake is yummy. But, what do they taste like combined? Most people describe the taste as a scrumptious blend of savory and sweet. The combo may seem a little odd, but a lot of people really love it. Give it a taste test if you can, or just be bold and ask your baker if they can whip it up.

Peanut Butter Cup

Few things go together like peanut butter and chocolate, especially when they’re combined into cute little cups. These tasty treats can also be added into (and on top of) a wedding cake that will take you back to your childhood days. Just keep in mind that you may want to have some peanut-free options for guests with allergies.

Get Inspired by Your Destination

When you’re dreaming up a wedding cake, look to your destination for inspiration. Couples getting married in Maui, for example, can serve Hawaiian wedding cake. There may also be traditional cake flavors or desserts specific to other destinations as well. Ask the locals or do some research to come up with something that complements your wedding locale.

Nix the Cake Altogether

As mentioned, cake is a tradition, but it’s not a requirement. If you’re not a huge cake fan, consider serving up something else that’s sweet and wonderful, like cupcakes, cake pops, or even an assortment of pies, cobblers, and other baked goods.

Weddings are a time to eat, drink, and be merry, and the cake (or dessert) reigns supreme above all the other edibles. As such, get creative and follow both your heart and your tastebuds. If you can do that, you and your guests are in for a real treat.

How to Save Money on Wedding Photography

Many couples are shocked when they discover just how much wedding photography can cost. If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed with this expense, don’t panic. Know that there are lots of things you can do to cut the costs and still get some amazing photos of your special day.

Hire A Less Experienced Photographer

The thought of hiring a photographer who isn’t extremely experienced can be scary. But, remember, everyone has to start somewhere. Even the best wedding photographers were newbies once upon a time. And, if you’re willing to take a chance on someone without a lot of experience, you can save some serious money. Just make sure you ask for at least a few sample photos first. That way, you won’t be completely shocked by the quality or style of the photography after it’s too late to do anything about it.

Choose a Weekday Wedding

Photographers often charge more money on high-demand days, such as weekends. As such, if you get married on a Saturday or Sunday, you may have to pay more for photos. Conversely, getting married on a Tuesday or Wednesday can cut the costs significantly. Ask local photographers about their weekday pricing versus their weekend pricing, and then decide whether a weekday wedding is worth the savings.

Schedule Less Time

Contrary to popular belief, professional photographers don’t have to capture every single moment of your wedding. If you’re on a tight budget, it’s okay to hire them solely for the ceremony. Your guests can take (and share) photos of other key moments, and in some ways, these shots can be even more meaningful.

Photos are a must-have at every wedding, from outdoor weddings in beautiful Maui to indoor weddings in classic churches. However, you shouldn’t have to use your whole budget on pictures. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and try these ideas to cut down on costs.

Planning a Destination Wedding? Consider These Tips

Do you have your heart set on a destination wedding? If so, it’s time to do some serious planning. These weddings can be magical and memorable, but they also require a lot of work. Fortunately, these useful tips can help you pull off a destination wedding with ease.

Tip #1: Set a Realistic Budget

Setting a budget is good advice for any wedding, but especially a destination wedding. When you’re getting married somewhere you’re not familiar with, costs can take you by surprise. You may find that they’re cheaper or more expensive than what you were expecting. But, either way, you have to know what kind of money you’ll be spending. Research costs in the desired wedding area and do some shopping around. Then, sit down and come up with a realistic, facts-based budget.

Tip #2: Notify Your Guests ASAP

The second you set your wedding date, let your guests know about your plans. They may have to arrange flights, book pet sitters or babysitters, or ask for time off from work. Thus, the sooner they get the details, the better. Even then, accept the fact that some of your guests may not be able to make it. Remember not to take it personally. Destination weddings are wonderful, but they ask a lot of the attendees.

Tip #3: Choose Accommodations with Care

When you’re getting married away from home, you and your guests will need somewhere to stay. While you should allow guests to book their own accommodations if they want, you should also offer up a few suggestions. You may even be able to get a discount if you book several rooms at the same hotel or resort. Plus, a group sleepover on the eve of your wedding can be a whole lot of fun.

Whether you’re getting married in Maui, Mexico, or even Milwaukee, a destination wedding is a real adventure. But, don’t go into it blindly. The more you plan and prepare, the more incredible your wedding is likely to be.

Should You Have a Wedding Dress Code?

When you’re planning a wedding, you spend a lot of time thinking about what you’re going to wear. But, what about your guests? Should you provide them with some guidance (or some rules) on how they should dress? That’s entirely up to you, but whatever you decide, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Location Matters

Before you set a dress code, think about where you’re getting married. That should play a big role in how others dress. After all, you don’t want people sweating in suits if you’re getting married on the beaches of Maui. Take into account not just the temperature but also the overall vibe of your venue and your ceremony. The attire and the event should go together like wine and cheese.

Explore Popular Styles

These days, guests often want a bit more direction than “cocktail attire” or “dressy casual.” So, invest some time into exploring common wedding styles. For example, some couples ask their guests to dress in monochromatic colors, which can result in some pretty incredible photos. Others may have a theme, like vintage fashions or fashions from a particular decade. As you research different styles, think about what will make both you and your guests the most comfortable.

It’s Okay Not to Have a Dress Code

While wedding dress codes are common, they’re certainly not required. If you don’t want to put restrictions on your guests’ attire, feel free to declare your ceremony “come as you want.” Just keep in mind that everybody may not wear what you consider appropriate. If you’re okay with that, then go ahead and let everyone do their thing.

Even when you set a dress code, know that every guest may not follow it. People can interpret dress codes in a variety of different ways. Really, though, it isn’t what people wear that matters. It’s having the people you love most gathered together to celebrate you and your partner. If you can remember that, nothing else really matters.

How to Handle Bad Bridesmaids

When you’re a bride-to-be, you have to choose your bridesmaids with care. You need people who will show up when they’re supposed to and be there for you without causing drama. You also need people who can get along with each other. But, even when you’re selective about your wedding crew, problems sometimes arise. If you’ve got a bridesmaid who is causing issues, don’t send her packing just yet. Instead, try these conflict resolution ideas.

When They Hate the Wardrobe . . .

Is your bridesmaid complaining about the dress you’ve asked her to wear? Sit down and talk with her to get to the root of the issue. While it may just be a matter of clashing tastes, chances are there’s something deeper at play. Maybe she feels self-conscious in the dress. Or, perhaps it’s a bit out of her budget. In cases like these, consider being sensitive and coming up with some kind of compromise, like letting her wear a slightly different (or cheaper) dress in the same color.

When They’re Being Distant . . .

Sometimes, a bridesmaid may get a little distant in the weeks leading up to the wedding. Just like with the dress issue, try to find out why. It might be that your bridesmaid is feeling a little left out. Or, maybe she’s having issues in her own relationship that are making your happiness a bit hard to deal with. She may also be busy or stressed, or she might feel like you’re not giving her enough attention. As hard as it may be, remember to be a friend first and a bride second.

When You Have to Cut Her Loose . . .

While some problems can be resolved with a dose of kindness and a good heart-to-heart, other issues are more serious. If your bridesmaid is ruining your experience or causing you more stress than you can handle, it may be time to take her out of your wedding. That can be hard to do, and once you’ve done it, there’s no going back. So, think long and hard about the decision, and then let her down as gently as you can. When possible, try to make it seem like you’re doing her a favor. Try saying something like, “I can see getting to Maui for my wedding is causing you a lot of stress. It’s okay if you can’t be there.” If that doesn’t work, be firm but compassionate, and make sure you tell her the news privately and in person.

You shouldn’t have to put up with a lot of unnecessary wedding drama, but you can’t be a total diva either. Always consider your bridesmaids’ feelings and your own. Also, think about how each bridesmaid is impacting the wedding and the group dynamics as a whole. If you can think with a level head, you can handle bridesmaids issues and make even the toughest decisions with ease.

A Guide to Crafting Your Wedding Day Playlist

If you’re about to tie the knot, congratulations are in order. But, before you walk down the aisle and say “I do,” give some thought to the soundtrack for your big day. Whether you’re hiring a band or a DJ or just breaking out the old CDs, the right music is essential.

Get Inspired

You might be a big music fan with knowledge of hundreds of songs. But, if you’re not, there are plenty of ways to get inspired. Listen to the soundtracks of some of your favorite romantic movies, and pull a few songs that you like. Ask your friends and family members for musical recommendations, or explore My Wedding Songs, a fun website that features romance-inspired playlists.

Choose Some Sentimental Songs . . .

Weddings are all about love, so you’ll definitely need a few good love songs in your arsenal. Consider choosing songs that have special meaning to you and your partner, and be extra selective about the song for your first dance. You can also ask loved ones to contribute sweet song ideas that remind them of you and your special someone.

And Some Rockin’ Hits

While lovey-dovey songs are a necessity, you also need songs that will get people out of their chairs and onto the dance floor. You can use your setting for inspiration, like choosing tropical, breezy songs if you’re getting married on the beaches of Maui. Or, you can go for the most popular hits and/or songs from your favorite decade or musical era. As long as the music gets people moving, you can’t go wrong.

You may not remember every single song that plays on your wedding day, but the music will help set the tone and mood. So, choose your playlist with care and have a little fun with it. Then, you can dance, sing, and have an amazing time from the first moment of your wedding to the last.

Don’t Make These Wedding Planning Mistakes

If you’re planning a wedding, chances are you’re feeling at least a little stressed. After all, even small weddings are major productions that require a lot of time and effort. Fortunately, however, there’s lots of good advice available to help you pull off your big day successfully. And, if you’re not sure where to start, consider these all-too-common wedding day mistakes and steer clear of them.

Mistake #1: Booking Your Venue at the Last Minute

You can’t have a wedding without a wedding venue. Thus, reserve a venue as soon as possible after your engagement. If you wait too long, you may have to settle for something you don’t truly love. Or, you might have to change your desired wedding date, which can lead to a host of other issues. Also, don’t just assume that outdoor spaces, like the beaches of Maui, are open for events at all times. Many outdoor spaces are actually privately owned. Plus, depending on the details, you may need a permit for your outdoor wedding.

Mistake #2: Not Having (Or Sticking To) a Budget

No one likes to think about how much a wedding costs. But, the fact remains that they do come with their fair share of expenses, and you and your wallet have to be prepared. Even if you’re dreading it, sit down with your partner and come up with a realistic wedding budget, and then do everything in your power to stick to it. This will make planning your wedding (without going broke) so much easier. It will also keep you from setting your sights on venues, decorations, or other items that are out of your financial league.

Mistake #3: Demanding Perfection

Many people spend their entire lives dreaming about their wedding day. They build it up so much in their heads that no real event could possibly measure up. Sadly, this kind of thinking often leads to disappointment. To avoid feeling let down, remind yourself that your wedding doesn’t have to be 100% perfect and that it probably won’t be. If you can accept this early on, you’ll have an easier time focusing on what does go well and just enjoying the moment.

Everyone makes mistakes, but you can at least avoid these three on your wedding day. Also, remember that, the more you plan, the more likely it is your wedding day will be a success. So, don’t wait. Start preparing for your wedding right away!

Fun Ideas to Keep Your Wedding Guests Entertained

When guests come to a wedding, whether it’s in beautiful Maui or your own back yard, they expect to have a good time. Thus, it’s your job to provide a few activities that will keep them entertained and energized. It’s a way to say “thank you” to your guests for being a part of your big day. Plus, the right activities can ensure your wedding is fun for everyone. If you’re stumped about what to do, don’t worry. These ideas are sure to be a hit.

Live Music

Live music is a staple at weddings and for good reason. It sets the mood and gets your guests up out of their chairs and onto the dance floor. Depending on your tastes and your budget, you could choose a live band, a DJ, a talented wedding singer, or even a nice stereo system and your favorite tunes.

A Photo Booth

People like to leave weddings with a souvenir. Photo booths give them a chance to create a personal memento, and they double as entertainment. Talk about a win-win! Even better, you can create a DIY photo booth if you have a few friends willing to run the camera. Or, if you don’t mind the expense, you can hire a company that will come out, set up their equipment, and provide fun props. You can also ask your guests to share their photos or leave some behind. That way, you and your partner get to have some keepsakes of your own.

A Magical Magician

For entertainment that’s daring, different, and unforgettable, consider hiring a magician. You can hire a professional to do a show or two, or you can have them roam through the reception area and perform tricks for small groups. Either way, your guests are sure to have a great time.

As you can see, there are lots of ways to entertain your guests. Try these ideas, or use them as a jumping off point to generate some ideas of your own. Your wedding attendees will thank you for the time and effort you put in, and your wedding will go down in history as fun and memorable.

How to Have an Incredible Rehearsal Dinner

Your rehearsal dinner is an important part of the wedding festivities. It’s a time to come together, relax, and prepare for your big day without all the pressure of the actual event. But, like many parts of a wedding, it can be somewhat stressful. However, you can eliminate some of that stress by following these helpful tips.

Tip #1: Follow Invitation Etiquette

If you’re not sure who to invite to your rehearsal dinner, just follow common etiquette standards. Absolutely everyone in your wedding party will expect and should be given an invitation. It’s also polite to invite your officiant, though they often decline the invitation. Additionally, you should also give each guest the option of bringing someone, such as a spouse or partner, along with them.

Tip #2: Skip the Printed Invites

While you could send out formal, printed invitations to your rehearsal dinner, it’s not necessary. Furthermore, it will cost you money that you could spend on other, more pressing wedding expenses. Thus, feel free to simply ask people in person, send out online invites, or even create an online group or website where people can RSVP.

Tip #3: Choose a Convenient Location

Be mindful of the fact that your guests probably don’t want to travel somewhere far away for the rehearsal dinner, especially if your wedding is being held the next day. When possible, have it held at the venue or, if different, the same place where your rehearsal is being held. If that can’t happen, choose a restaurant or other central location that is close to the rehearsal space. This will cut down on frustration, stress, and unnecessary travel.

Whether you’re getting married in Maui or your own hometown, a wedding rehearsal dinner is a staple of every wedding. While it’s okay to think outside of the box in terms of what you serve or when it occurs, following basic etiquette is a must. This will help you avoid disgruntled guests and will keep everything running more smoothly. And, with any luck, that smooth, positive energy will carry over into your ceremony as well.

How to Have a Green Wedding

These days, more and more people are committed to being ecologically conscious. If you’re one of them, why not extend your “green” mindset to your wedding day? There are many things you can do to create a wedding that’s more sustainable and more environmentally friendly.

Be Mindful When it Comes to Flowers

At many weddings, elaborate floral arrangements and bouquets are a staple. However, these flowers often get tossed aside the moment the wedding is over. If you want to behave a bit more responsibly, look into other, out-of-the-box possibilities. For example, you could cut down on the environmental impact by working with a local florist, opting for silk flowers instead, or even using potted plants that can be kept alive following your big day.

Select a Sustainable Venue

Many wedding venues care about the environment as much as you do. In fact, there are venues all over the world that take a sustainable approach to weddings. From relying on solar power to recycling wedding leftovers, modern venues have all kinds of good practices in place. You can search specifically for “green” venues in your desired wedding area, or you can simply talk about sustainability practices with your prospective venues. Alternatively, you could skip the traditional venue completely and get married in the great outdoors. A national forest or the beaches of Maui are just a couple of a host of awesome ideas.

Cut Down on Waste

Finally, make an effort to reduce waste wherever you can. For instance, you could send out virtual invitations instead of paper ones. Similarly, you could offer recyclable wedding programs or put your programs online instead. You might also look into donating leftover wedding food to charities that could put it to good use and at serving less food in general. The less waste you create with your wedding, the better.

Most people view weddings as a time where it’s okay to be selfish. Thus, being mindful of others and the planet during your wedding is commendable. Give yourself a pat on the back for your thoughtfulness, and then follow your heart. Remember, your wedding doesn’t have to be 100% “green” to have an impact. Any effort you make counts for a lot.

What to Serve on Your Wedding Buffet

When it comes to dining at your wedding reception, you have lots of choices for how to feed your guests. If you’ve settled on the popular buffet option, you’re in luck. The possibilities of what to serve are truly endless. Whether you’re taking a DIY approach, hiring a caterer, or even hosting a potluck, you can choose foods that work for both you and your guests. And, if you’re not sure what to serve, these ideas are an excellent starting place.

Add in Some Local Foods

Food is a great way to highlight and celebrate your wedding locale, especially if you’re having a destination wedding. If you’re getting married in Maui, for instance, you might offer a poke bowl buffet, or you could include a shaved ice dessert station. No matter where your wedding is being held, a buffet gives you a chance to incorporate local foods and flavors.

Serve Up Some Salad

Salad is a buffet staple, and for good reason. It’s affordable, almost everyone likes it, and it’s fully customizable. Include at least a few offerings of greens, toppings, and dressings. From there, people can choose to add a salad to the rest of their meal or make the salad their entire meal. This option also helps you cater to vegetarians and those who are trying to eat healthily.

Choose Small Servings

One of the best things about a buffet is that you get to try a little bit of everything. Thus, there’s no need to provide huge portions. It’s perfectly acceptable to offer a selection of small bites or miniature, pre-portioned servings on a buffet. That way, your guests will get to enjoy a wider variety of foods, and you can cut down on costs and waste.

A wedding buffet can be both fun and delicious. It gets your guests out of their seats and causes them to move, mingle, and have a great time. It also gives you a lot of freedom in terms of what you’ll serve and how much you’ll spend. So, what are you waiting for? Keep these tips in mind, and start planning your bountiful buffet today.

Simple Tips for Choosing Your Wedding Destination

Do you have your heart set on a destination wedding? If so, you should know that you’re in for a wonderful adventure. However, you also have some work ahead of you. To start, your most important job is deciding on the location. This all-important task requires some serious thought and planning, but these tips can help.

Tip #1: Work with a Professional

Planning a destination wedding requires a lot more work than planning a local wedding. After all, you won’t actually be in the area of your wedding until closer to the big day. That’s why professional help really comes in handy. Consider consulting with a travel agent and/or a wedding planner experienced with destination weddings. Describe your budget, what you want in a destination, and other important factors. From there, they can suggest ideal destinations, such as sunny Maui or romantic Paris.

Tip #2: See What Venues are Available

Once you’ve settled on some prospective destinations, you’ll want to research venues in your preferred areas. If not working with a wedding planner, be prepared to spend a lot of time sending emails and making phone calls. Compare pricing and availability from one venue to the next to help you decide which destination is truly the best fit. The earlier you can do this, the better. Popular venues get booked up quickly, and you’ll also want to provide your guests with plenty of notice so they can make their own travel plans.

Tip #3: Look Into the Travel Logistics

Finally, consider how you’d actually get to each of your potential destinations. Would one be easier or more accessible than all the others? Are you okay with flying, or would you prefer somewhere within driving distance? Will the majority of your guests be able to make the trip? Considering practical logistics like these can help you make the smartest destination decision.

As you can see, there’s a lot to think about when choosing a locale for your destination wedding. But, don’t panic. Remind yourself of the reasons you want a destination wedding in the first place. Then, take a deep breath, and get to work!

Unveiling the Magic: Your Ultimate Guide to a Dream Maui Wedding

Tying the knot in a tropical paradise is the ultimate dream for many couples, and what better place to say "I do" than the enchanting island of Maui? With its stunning landscapes, golden beaches, and warm, crystal-clear waters, Maui is the perfect backdrop for a magical wedding celebration. Contact us or visit our blog often, we will take you on a journey to unveil the secrets of planning your dream Maui wedding.

As your Maui wedding planner we pull out all the stops until you have the perfect day - From finding the ideal venue to choosing the perfect flowers and designing a mouthwatering menu, we'll provide you with all the insider tips and advice you need to create an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. Whether you're envisioning a large, glamorous ceremony or a charming garden wedding, we'll help you navigate through every step of the planning process.

Discover hidden gems and local vendors, explore unique traditions and customs, and get inspired by real-life Maui wedding stories that will ignite your imagination. Get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of Maui as we unlock the secrets to creating the wedding of your dreams in this breathtaking paradise.

So, let the journey begin!

Thinking of Buying Your Wedding Dress Online? Read This First

When you think of wedding dress shopping, you probably picture yourself standing in a boutique, in front of a mirror, and trying on dress after dress until you find “the one.” While you could handle the shopping this way, know that you don’t have to. A lot of modern brides are choosing to purchase their dresses online, and you can too. But, before you do, keep these helpful tips in mind.

Shop On Trustworthy Sites

First things first, understand that not all online stores are created equal. While there are plenty of good, trustworthy places to buy a dress online, there are also lots of scam sites. So, do your homework. Before you buy a dress, research the store to see how long it’s been in business, what past customers’ experiences have been, and other important details, such as shipping time. You should only make a purchase once you’re confident the store will deliver a quality dress in a timely fashion.

Inquire About Return Policies

Once you’ve found a site you can trust, take a moment to read the return policy with care. If your dress looks drastically different in person, needs to be traded in for another size, or has a flaw or defect, will you be able to ship it back and get a new one? If so, who pays the return shipping fees? Are returns allowed for some issues but not others? These are all things you need to know before you spend your hard-earned money on a dress.

Take Careful Measurements

As a final tip, don’t guess about your measurements or your size. Almost every quality site will include sizing charts to help you select the right dress size. However, your measurements still need to be accurate. While it’s fairly easy to take measurements yourself or to have a friend do it, you can also pop in to a tailor’s shop and get them done. Often, this service is provided free of charge. Even better, tailors are experienced at measuring people and should get the job done right.

Whether you’re getting married in Maui, your hometown, or anywhere in between, you deserve a dress that makes you feel your best. Fortunately, you can find that dress online. Just shop and buy with caution, and you’re sure to look amazing.

Add a Mother/Son Dance to Your Reception

When it comes to weddings, the bride and groom’s first dance is a classic tradition. However, many couples also choose to add in a father/daughter dance and, as of late, a mother/son dance. After all, both individuals are saying a ceremonial “good-bye” to the person that raised them. If you’re on the fence about whether or not to incorporate this tradition into your big day, consider the benefits.

It’s Entertaining

Most people imagine wedding receptions as huge, non-stop parties. But, in truth, without careful planning, they can get pretty dull. After all, the guests can only stare at the happy couple for so long. Thus, the more you can do to make your reception engaging and entertaining, the better. If you add in a mother/son dance, you’re adding in one more element to please your guests and fill the time.

It’s Emotional

People expect to cry and get emotional at weddings. It just goes with the territory. It’s one time you can let feelings and tears fly without judgment. When you incorporate a mother/son dance into the reception, sons can share a happy, meaningful moment with the other woman in their life. It’s not only meaningful for the groom, but the crowd is sure to eat it up as well.

It’s Easy

There’s no need for fancy dance moves or extensive dance lessons. A mother/son dance moment is all about sweetness and simple swaying. Therefore, it’s easy to pull off. Plus, there are so many great mother/son songs to choose from for the big moment, such as “Mother Like Mine” by The Band Perry or “My Wish” by Rascal Flatts.

What you do at your reception is completely up to you. But, with that said, there’s no good reason not to fill your special day with fond, emotional moments. Whether you’re getting married in gorgeous Maui or somewhere closer to home, a mother/son dance can make your wedding day even more special, sweet, and memorable. So, be sure to give the idea some thought as you plan your reception.

Is a Vow Renewal Ceremony in Your Future?

If you’re already married, you might think that romantic ceremonies are a thing of the past as far as you’re concerned. However, that doesn’t have to be the case. A lot of couples are opting for vow renewal ceremonies. They can be a fun way to celebrate your lasting love. Plus, they offer many other benefits as well.

They Can Help You Live Your Dreams

If you didn’t get your dream wedding the first time around, you’re not alone. Lots of couples have regrets about how their big day went down. Maybe family squabbles got in the way, or perhaps you just didn’t have a workable budget. Whatever the case may be, there’s nothing stopping you from having another ceremony. You can renew your vows and make some old dreams come true in the process.

You Can Combine it With a Vacation

Who doesn’t love a romantic getaway? A vow renewal ceremony gives you a chance to combine a fun vacation with a sweet, sentimental gesture. You can hold your ceremony anywhere you like, such as the beautiful beaches of Maui. Even better, you can surprise your partner with the trip of a lifetime. You can also make the excursion as private or as public as you like.

They’re a Great Way to Celebrate Milestones

Couples will achieve many milestones throughout their marriage, such as anniversaries, the birth of children and grandchildren, and buying their first home together. If you’ve recently accomplished something you’re proud of, why not celebrate the moment and each other with a vow renewal ceremony?

There’s Less Stress Involved

Planning a wedding typically involves a lot of stress and worry. With a vow renewal ceremony, the stakes aren’t quite so high. You’re already officially married. This is just a chance to have fun and show how much you care. It’s like a wedding without all the pressure.

Vow renewal ceremonies can be every bit as special as weddings. In some ways, they can be even better. If you’d like to do something special, sweet, and spectacular, start planning your vow renewal today. You and your partner can make wonderful memories and keep that flame burning bright.

Wedding Arches Not Your Style? Consider These Options

Wedding arches have long been a staple at wedding ceremonies. They can symbolize the future home the couple will share once they say “I do.” For others, they have religious meaning. However, not everyone likes the way they look or puts much stock in their symbolism. If you fall into this category, don’t worry. There are plenty of other options at your disposal.

Go Arch-Free

First things first, there’s no rule that says you have to have an arch or even any kind of “frame” for you and your partner. If you’re getting married somewhere particularly beautiful, like the beaches of Maui, you may just want to let nature take center stage. Or, maybe you want all the focus to be on you and your beloved, instead of on the thing you’re standing under. If you want a ceremony free from clutter, that’s certainly your right.

Frame with Flowers

Typically, wedding flowers are chosen with great care. They also tend to be expensive. It makes sense that if you put both effort and money into your flowers, you’d want to show them off. And, what better way to showcase your flowers than to use them to create a frame around you and your partner? You can stack them high, arrange them in a circle, or do anything else your heart desires. The effect is sure to be pretty, whimsical, and unforgettable.

Add a Fun Touch with Balloons

Everyone loves balloons. There’s just something about them that tends to make people happy. If you’re a balloon fan, consider using them to draw attention to you and your soon-to-be spouse. You can stand between tall pillars made of balloons. Or, if you want something really magical, stand among free-floating balloons as you say your vows.

As you can see, there are lots of great options for highlighting you and your partner on the big day. Just be true to yourself and your style, and you’re sure to find something you love. After all, it’s not about the arch or any other accessories or accouterments. It’s about the love you share and coming together as a couple.

What Should You Put On Your Wedding Registry?

Weddings are about declaring your undying love to that special person in your life. But, in all honesty, they’re also a chance to get some awesome presents. Even better yet, you get to make a wishlist of what you want. If you’re stumped about what should go on that list, don’t worry. These ideas should help you get started.

Home Goods

Traditionally, brides and grooms were gifted items for their new home. However, many of today’s couples already live together before the ceremony and have most of the items they’ll need. If this applies to you, take a good look around your home. Chances are you have things that need replacing, like worn cookware, or things you’d like to have but never got around to buying, such as a blender or a fancy coffee machine. Those can go on your registry without anyone batting an eye. And, if you are living together for the first time, go ahead and make a list of all the items you’ll need to start living your best life as a couple.

Gift Cards

If you already have most of what you need but don’t want to ask for cash outright, consider requesting gift cards. Ideally, your guests will give you the kind of card you can use anywhere and for anything. These can really come in handy if you want to spend your honeymoon somewhere exotic, such as Maui, but are tapped out from the wedding. Even if you get gift cards to specific places, like restaurants or stores, they can still help you save money during your first few months as a married couple.

Sentimental Items

For couples who want to forgo the standard store registry, it’s okay to be creative. You can ask your guests to give sweet, sentimental items from the heart. You can make specific requests, like asking your artist friend to paint your portrait, or just leave things open for some nice surprises. This is a bit of a risk, but it’s also a lot of fun. You could receive everything from scrapbooks to paid sessions for matching tattoos!

Gifts and weddings go hand in hand, so expect to be showered with lots of presents on your special day. You’ll probably get some things you love and some things that are a bit off the wall. But, no matter what, be grateful and remember that it’s the thought that counts.