Planning a Destination Wedding in Maui: Important considerations

Maui is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and perfect weather, making it an ideal destination for weddings. The island offers a diverse range of natural wonders, from pristine beaches and lush rainforests to towering waterfalls and majestic mountains. The stunning landscapes provide an unparalleled backdrop for your wedding photos and create a romantic atmosphere that will leave you and your guests in awe.

Not only does Maui offer stunning beauty, but it also boasts a near-perfect climate. With warm temperatures year-round and gentle trade winds, you can be confident that your wedding day will be comfortable and enjoyable for everyone. Whether you choose to have your ceremony on a secluded beach or amidst the tropical gardens of a resort, the weather in Maui will enhance the overall experience and create lasting memories.

Top Wedding Venues in Maui include Beachfront rResorts and Hidden Gems

Planning a destination wedding requires careful consideration and attention to detail. When choosing Maui as your wedding destination, there are a few important factors to keep in mind. First and foremost, decide on the size and style of your wedding. Are you envisioning an intimate gathering with close family and friends or a larger celebration with a grand reception? Understanding your vision will help you narrow down the venue options and make the planning process smoother.

Next, consider the logistics of traveling to Maui. Inform your guests well in advance and provide them with all the necessary information, including travel arrangements, accommodation options, and any additional activities you have planned for them. It's also essential to research and understand the legal requirements for getting married in Maui, such as obtaining a marriage license and any necessary documentation.

The Benefits of Hiring a Wedding Planner for Your Dream Wedding

Planning a Maui wedding can be both exciting and overwhelming. From choosing the perfect venue to organizing the guest list, there are countless decisions to make and details to coordinate. That's where a professional Maui wedding planner comes in. Hiring a professional wedding planner can ease the stress and ensure that your dream wedding becomes a reality.

With their expertise and extensive network of vendors, wedding planners can save you time and money. They have the ability to negotiate contracts, find the best deals, and make sure that all the necessary arrangements are in place. Whether you're envisioning an intimate celebration or a grand affair, a wedding planner can help you bring your vision to life.

In addition to their logistical skills, wedding planners have a creative eye for design. They can help you conceptualize and execute a cohesive theme or aesthetic, from the invitation suite to the floral arrangements. By listening to your ideas and preferences, they can personalize every aspect of your wedding, making it a truly unique and memorable event.

So, if you want to enjoy the journey of planning your dream Maui wedding without the stress and overwhelm, consider hiring a wedding planner. With their expertise and attention to detail, they will ensure that your special day is everything you've envisioned and more.

Why You Should Consider a Wedding Day Buffet

Wedding guests look forward to a lot of things. They’re eager to see the bride and groom smiling, happy, and totally in love. However, they’re also thinking about their stomachs and looking forward to the food you’ll serve. Fortunately, you have many options in terms of edible offerings. One of the easiest choices is a buffet-style meal, which you can cater or prepare yourself. You could even opt for a potluck buffet if your guests are willing. In any case, there are certainly some pros to this dinner offering.

There’s Something for Everyone

It’s practically impossible to serve a meal that every single guest will love. Plus, there are lots of dietary restrictions to consider, such as food allergies, vegetarian diets, and more. But, with a buffet, there’s bound to be something that every attendee can enjoy.

It’s a Social Affair

Serving food buffet-style means that your guests will have to get up, stand in line, and make their plates. It also means that they’ll be moving and mingling, which is a great way to add some energy to your reception. People will meet each other, talk, and create a festive atmosphere that can carry over into the entire ceremony.

It Can Save Money

Buffets tend to be one of the more affordable options for wedding food, especially if you have a potluck reception or take a DIY approach. If you’re having the buffet catered, you can still save by shopping around and comparing prices. Everyone will get fed, and your wallet can stay nice and fat. You may also free up some money to spend on other wedding expenses.

Whether you’re getting married in Maui or your own hometown, your guests want to eat, and it’s your job to feed them. And, for many couples, a wedding buffet makes the most sense. Look into this option, compare it to your other choices, and then, if it’s right for you, go for it!

Should You Have Kids at Your Wedding?

Children bring a lot of joy and laughter wherever they go. However, they can also bring a lot of noise and, in some cases, destruction. For this reason, many couples are uncertain about whether or not to invite kids to their wedding. There are pros and cons to having them there and to leaving them home. Thus, you should consider these advantages and disadvantages as you decide whether or not to make your wedding a kid-friendly affair.

Pro: Guests Won’t Have to Worry About Childcare

When kids are invited to the wedding, parents don’t have to book babysitters, unless they just want a day to themselves. This can help you get more “yes” RSVPs, and it can reduce stress and expenses for your guests. The only exception is when you’re having a destination wedding. Few parents will want to pay to fly their children to Maui or some other wedding locale. However, you can still give them the option, just in case they want to use your wedding as an excuse for a family vacation.

Con: Kids Require Extra Planning

While allowing kids at your wedding may make things easier on their parents, it makes things harder on you. You’ll have to have child-friendly seating available at the venue. You may also need a quiet space where mothers can feed their children, or, if you’re feeling extra generous, you might need to spring for at-the-venue childcare. And, if kids are welcome at the reception, you’ll need to offer at least a few food and beverage options that are suitable for their little palates.

Pro: Your Wedding Can Be More Adorable

When little ones are welcome, expect lots of “aws” and plenty of gushing, especially if you have kids in the wedding party. Having an adorable little ring bearer or the sweetest flower girl will delight everyone and make your wedding more memorable. Even if kids aren’t in the wedding, many guests will enjoy seeing them sitting around, smiling, and looking cute in their dressiest attire.

Con: You May Have to Make Some Tough Decisions

When you start adding kids into the mix, things can get tricky. For example, should you invite some kids but not others? Will you hurt people’s feelings if you allow only the kids in your immediate family or only the children who are actually in the wedding? These are choices that can be made at your discretion, but you run a higher risk of hurting feelings if you allow some children but not all children. For this reason, some couples may find it easier to simply say no to children altogether.

The Importance of Family Togetherness on Your Big Day

When you imagine your wedding, you probably imagine everyone smiling, happy, and having a great time. However, that doesn’t always happen. The truth is that families sometimes have drama. Plus, you’re adding two separate families into the mix, which doesn’t always go as well as you might hope. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to facilitate togetherness and increase the chances of a smooth ceremony and reception.

Introduce Everyone as Early as Possible

In a perfect world, your partner’s family and your family will all know each other prior to the wedding and will get along amazingly. Sadly, that’s not always possible. You and your partner may have families that don’t live in the same place or that have never met for a variety of reasons. In these cases, try and arrange a pre-wedding meet and greet as soon as possible. This will make things a lot less awkward at your wedding and will give people a chance to make some friends and get comfortable with each other.

Be Mindful About the Seating Arrangements

You know your family better than anyone. As such, you should consider any possible “sticky situations” as you make the seating arrangements. If you have divorced parents, for example, and their relationship is hostile, you may not want to seat them together. Similarly, if you have an inkling that one member of your partner’s family may not get along so well with one or more members of your family, you can avoid having them sit too close.

Address the Issues

You don’t have to heal every family heartache to have an awesome, drama-free wedding. But, with that said, it’s not a bad idea to speak clearly and directly about how you want your wedding to go, especially if you know there are some issues brewing behind the scenes. Get your guests together, either in-person or virtually, and emphasize how important it is that you have an enjoyable, stress-free wedding. Politely ask your guests to leave any issues at the door, and invite them to come to you if they foresee any problems. Let them know you’ll do whatever you can to help them feel comfortable.

Whether your wedding is being held in a Hawaiian paradise, like Maui, or your own back yard, people are still people. They get hurt and angry, and sometimes they fight and act out. Hopefully, this kind of thing won’t impact your ceremony or your happiness. Following these tips can help, but, above all, keep your head held high, focus on the positive, and don’t be afraid to put yourself and your wellbeing first.

What You Need to Know About RSVP Protocol

Once your wedding goes from a dream to a real thing that’s actually going to happen, it’s time to get excited! It’s also time to start inviting your guests. But, what can you expect from there? While there will always be some stragglers who don’t RSVP or who do so late, most people will follow basic RSVP protocol. Knowing that protocol yourself can help you prepare for the RSVP process.

Make Sure You Send Out Your Invitations in Time

To begin with, if you want timely RSVPs, send timely invitations. In general, brides and grooms are encouraged to send invitations at least six to eight weeks prior to their weddings. However, if you’re having a destination wedding, especially if it’s somewhere exotic like Maui, you should give your guests even more time to plan and respond.

Include All the Details

Another tip to keep in mind is to make your invitations as detailed as possible. Include the date of your ceremony, the start time, and the location. That way, people can accurately assess whether or not they’ll be able to attend. They can also let you know if they have any special circumstances, like only being able to attend part of the ceremony or reception.

Ask Them to RSVP By a Certain Date

You stand a much better chance of getting on-time RSVPs if you indicate an RSVP deadline. Typically, you should request that your guests RSVP by about two or three weeks before your wedding. If they don’t adhere to this date, you can send a quick follow-up email or text. But, barring that, it’s okay to take those guests out of your headcount. The only other option is to leave a few spots open for those “just in case” attendees. While this is a polite thing to do, it does mean that you may spend money on guests who don’t show. Ultimately, it’s up to you how you wish to handle non-responders.

Hopefully, you’ll start getting RSVPs very soon after you send out your invites. That certainly helps for planning purposes. But, if your guests take a little longer, don’t worry too much. As long as you’ve followed this advice, you’ll know you’ve handled the invites and RSVPs exactly as you should.

Trying to Choose a Wedding Venue? These Tips Can Help

Whether you’re saying your vows in gorgeous Maui, your memory-filled hometown, or anywhere in between, you deserve a beautiful venue. However, finding the perfect venue is easier said than done. If you’ve been having a hard time choosing your ideal wedding spot, don’t panic. Give these tips a try.

Tip #1: Start the Search Early

While some wedding-related decisions can be left to the last minute, choosing a venue is not one of them. After all, if you wait too long, you may not be able to find a suitable space on your preferred date, which can throw all your other plans into chaos. Plus, you may have to settle for whatever’s available, and your wedding day is not a time to settle. So, as soon as the engagement is official, start researching venues.

Tip #2: Ask for Recommendations

Venues don’t always advertise as much as they should. Some of them are so popular that they don’t need to, and others are selective about their customers. In either case, you’re more likely to find all the available venues in your desired area if you do some asking around. Who knows? You may even discover some “best kept secrets.” Ask friends and family members who’ve gotten married in the last few years for their recommendations. And, if you’re lucky enough to have a wedding planner, ask their opinion as well. Chances are they’ll have great knowledge and some great connections to go with it.

Tip #3: Know Your Limit

Venue rental costs are typically one of the biggest wedding expenses. Thus, to avoid disappointment, set a realistic venue budget ahead of time. That way, you can bypass venues that aren’t in your price range and avoid overspending. It’s not just your financial limit that matters either. Decide on your absolute “must-haves” and your negotiables with your partner ahead of time. This will help you narrow down your options, while ensuring you score a venue that lives up to your expectations.

There are definitely a lot of things to think about when choosing a wedding venue. However, if you heed this advice, the process can be a lot less stressful. So, what are you waiting for? Start the venue search today!

Turn Your Big Day into a Lucky Day

Your wedding date is one you’ll remember for the rest of your life. For this reason, many people choose it with great care. Some couples select a date that has sentimental value to them, like a deceased loved one’s birthday. Others choose it based on location, weather, venue availability, or other more practical matters. Weather concerns aside, however, there’s another option: pick a day that’s considered “lucky.”

Choose a Day When Something Amazing Happened

Everyone defines luck differently. But, a day when something really good happened will count as “lucky” to almost everyone. With that in mind, sit down with your partner and talk about some of the most special dates in your life. Maybe it’s the day you met, the day a child was born, or the day you found out some amazing news. If you can come up with a day that’s lucky for one or both of you, you can make that your extra special wedding date.

Consult the Stars

Astrologists typically designate a few days as the luckiest day of the year each year. If you’re one to study the stars, or at least trust them, you can use this information as your guide. For example, one of the luckiest days in 2023, according to most astrologists, is December 30. If that’s a little too soon for you, there will be more dates coming. You can also consult with a private astrologist if you prefer.

Take the Romantic Route

If you’d like a romantic lucky date, what better day than Valentine’s Day? After all, it’s a day that’s all about love and togetherness. You could also choose something a bit more personal, like the day you and your partner shared your first kiss. Or, if you met online, you could pick the first day you met in person. When you listen to your heart, the possibilities are endless.

These are just a few of many ways to pick a lucky day. And, if you’re not the superstitious type, don’t worry. Any day where you get to marry the love of your life is sure to be pretty lucky!

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.