Backyard Wedding Reception

You may have noticed that the costs for everyday items are at an all time high.  Unfortunately the expenses relating to weddings have also increased as our economy has struggled.  While fancy catered dinners and designer wedding gowns can take a big chunk out of your overall budget, engaged couples are often shocked to discover that rental fees on locations used for weddings and receptions have skyrocketed.  What’s a bride to do?  Many thrifty brides are deciding to cut costs and save money by having their receptions in their own backyard.  A backyard wedding can be just as beautiful as one in a rented area, but does require more work.

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Catering Your Own Wedding Reception

Giving your wedding a little taste of home.

There are a variety of reasons you may decide to cater your own wedding.

• If you are having a small, informal wedding, having a potluck reception may be just the thing.
• If you can’t imagine your wedding day without special cultural foods or some of Grandma’s famous recipes, then doing your own catering may be the right way to get the exact meal that you want. [Read more]

Creative Wedding Themes

Creative Wedding Themes

Our readers asked us about creating wedding themes and so we are thrilled to be doing creative wedding themes this week – one for each day for 12 days.  Each wedding theme will have 4 to 6 categories such as: Location, Decorations, Stationery or Invitation, Special Touches, Favors & Placecards, Menu, Desserts, Fashion & Accessories.

Let us know what you think or better yet, send us your own creative wedding theme – either your own wedding or something you dreamed about having.  For wedding themes that we have created in the past, please see the related articles below.

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Inviting Children to Your Wedding

To include the kids, or not to include the kids… how to make this tricky decision.

Deciding whether or not to invite children to your wedding and reception can be a tricky choice.  First and foremost should be what you, as a couple, really want.  Do you want your wedding to be truly a “family affair” where your little nieces and nephews can be part of your big day or do you want your wedding and reception to be an adult-only affair?   Do not include children out of a sense of guilt or obligation if it will only cause you more stress.  Be completely honest with yourselves as this can be a big decision in the wedding planning process. [Read more]

How to Plan a Wine Wedding Theme

If you and your partner are looking for a unique wedding theme and you both happen to love wine, a wine wedding theme would suit you best. Wine themed wedding is not only very elegant, but it also contains three main ingredients for a fabulous party that your wedding guests will long remember – great wine, delicious foods and good friends. For a successful wine wedding theme, consider the following wedding planning details:

Location

Choosing the location for your wedding ceremony and wedding reception comes first and foremost. A winery or a vineyard is the best location for your wedding and reception. If you are planning to have your ceremony and reception outdoors, consider an alternative plan in case it rains. Most wineries have both indoor function halls and outdoor gardens intended for special occasions such as weddings. Do not hesitate to ask the wineries near you. [Read more]