If you are planning a wedding chances are you are speaking to and negotiating with lots of different suppliers. So, what is the actual difference between a wedding planner and a wedding designer? If you want to enlist some help when you start planning your wedding would you benefit from having both or are they actually interchangeable? It’s likely that the tasks they perform will have an element of overlap, but it’s also the case that they each have a very different focus and the initial brief that you give them will be based on this. Let’s take a closer look at each, so that you can decide where the best place would be for you to invest your money to help you make your day a memorable occasion for all of the right reasons.
What does a wedding planner do?
In this case it’s all in the name, a wedding planner is going to be there right from the start with you, helping to plan each aspect of your wedding. A priority within their role is to take the pressure off of the two of you, to help reduce your stress and anxiety levels, suggest themes, make trusted recommendations and negotiate budgets and pricing too. Wedding planning will stick with you right through the process and be present on your wedding day too. They will be helping to ensure that everyone is where they need to be and at the right times so that the day goes as smoothly as possible.
Most wedding planners will be able to help with the following areas:
Reviewing your budget, breaking it down, allocating chunks of your budget to different areas of your wedding, and reception, based on your priorities.
Creating checklists so that everyone knows what needs to be done and by when.
Liaising with suppliers and venues.
Support with travel plans and accommodation booking for you or your guests.
Set up and removal of different elements on the big day.
And of course – management of everything on the day from ensuring everyone in the wedding party knows what they need to do and where they need to be, through to guest management, supplier liaison and any troubleshooting and problem solving too.
A wedding planner will often put in hundreds of hours of their time into your wedding day, they will know you as a couple inside and out and be on hand to support you each step of the way, resolving as many issues and problems as they can for you. Although you will come to your own agreement with your wedding planner over what they are responsible for and when you can contact them you should think of them as your right-hand man/woman who is there to support you in every way possible.
What does a wedding designer do?
In a nutshell a wedding designer is there to help you with the aesthetics of your wedding – bringing your wedding to life through color, props, and layout. They are going to help you to wow your guests with how your wedding and reception is laid out and the items that you choose to utilize on this day. This could be helping you to finalize a color palette, designing centerpieces for your tables, or sourcing that one ‘wow’ element that you have visualized but need help to bring to life. A wedding designer’s role has very little to do with the overall planning of the wedding. The role of a designer is purely aesthetic – a wedding designer creates a cohesive feel and your desired atmosphere. They’ll offer guidance on fabrics, textures, color palettes, props, furniture, and all décor elements.
Most wedding designers will be able to help with the following areas:
Finalizing your color palette.
Recommending trusted suppliers.
Designing table layouts and centerpieces.
They may be able to provide linens, chair covers and embellishments.
Sourcing of props and oversight of installation and take down.
Making sure the aesthetic vision you had for your wedding comes to life.
A wedding designer can help to remove the stress of all those final preparations and the on day set up of your wedding. They may also be able to save you a considerable amount of money by being able to recommend reliable, trustworthy suppliers, and when it comes to any props, chair covers and embellishments they may have a variety that you can rent which will be perfect for your day and save you the expense of purchasing.
Should you hire a Wedding Designer?
If the décor and atmosphere of your wedding is important to you…
If you would like someone creative involved who is able to take a blank canvas and turn it into the space you imagined…
If you want someone to be wholly responsible for decorating the event space for your wedding…
If you’re looking for ornate or difficult to source props or equipment…
If you have a specific, detailed theme in mind and need help developing and executing it…
…then hiring a wedding designer may just be for you. Typically, due to the nature of their work, wedding designers tend to book up quite early on so we would recommend sourcing your wedding designer as far as 12 months before your wedding day. This will also give your chosen supplier time to source any obscure or unique items for the day.
In Summary…
While there is an area of overlap between a wedding planner and a wedding designer, they do have very different roles to play when it comes to the planning and execution of your wedding.
Deciding on the level of help you want to invest in will depend on a number of things including how much of the planning you want to do yourself, how much time you have to invest in planning your wedding, how creative you are and of course the budget that you are working with.
You could opt to work with just one, both or neither – the choice is all yours. But, I hope you now feel armed with the information that can help you to make an informed decision about your special day.
Tipping in the US is pretty straightforward. We tip hairstylists, customer service, Uber & Lyft drivers, and bellhops. But what about on your honeymoon at an all-inclusive resort in another country? In fact, it’s one of the top questions that comes up again and again, when I’m planning either a honeymoon or any other trip to an all-inclusive resort. Some people advise tipping and others say to forget it. So which is it? Are you supposed to tip or not? And if so, how much do you tip? To help you figure all of this out, here are some of the best practices when it comes to tipping at all inclusive resorts and how much you should give.
Do You Have to Tip?
Before we dive into the specifics, allow me to answer one of the most frequently asked questions: Do I have to tip at an all-inclusive resort, or are the gratuities included at an all-inclusive resort?
The rate at an all-inclusive resort includes gratuities. So, the resort will divvy up a certain portion of your per-night rate amongst the team members. While resorts don’t tell you how much, many of the team members are there for 12 hours or more per day every day. It is a pretty grueling schedule where they could potentially work nine days in a row and then have two days off. What the resort gives them isn’t equivalent to the amount of work they put in.
With that said, I highly encourage tipping where you feel led. The resort you travel to and the level of service you have paid for (concierge or butler for example) will affect what you should prepare for regarding gratuities. Determining gratuity expectations is something I assist my clients with as they prepare to travel.
Let’s get down to some specifics regarding tipping for your all-inclusive honeymoon vacation.
The airport porter
An airport porter is someone who will assist you with your luggage once you are in destination. While this could be a bit annoying, a porter at the airport may swoop in and can sometimes aggressively start helping you with your luggage.
You can certainly decline their assistance, but if you decide to let them help, please give them a tip. $3-$5 is reasonable depending on how much luggage you have.
Porters are generally independent and are not employed by the airport, so they work for tips.
My theory is to support those who are willing to show up and do something to make a living for their families.
Airport shuttle driver
The driver that takes you to and from your all-inclusive resort is not employed by the resort. Please be prepared to tip this person for the ride each way.
Something that most people don’t factor in is the time involved. Please consider the distance that the driver has to go to get you to your resort and then turn around and head back to the airport for their next assignment.
For short distances $5 is sufficient, for longer drives (1.5 hours or more), consider giving at least $20. If it takes them 1.5 hours to get you to your resort, that is a 3 hour roundtrip investment of their time.
The Bellhop
Hooray! Welcome to the resort.
As you step out of the transportation vehicle, the first resort team member who will assist you is the bellhop. He or she will check your luggage and give you luggage tags while you head to the lobby to check into the resort.
Once you are checked in, your bellhop will escort you to your room and will likely share some details about the resort and where things are located, as well as share a few features with you regarding your room.
Depending on the time invested with you, a $5-$10 tip is recommended.
Concierge or Butler Service
If you’ve opted in for a higher level of service at your all-inclusive resort, come prepared to tip. If your concierge sets up your dinner reservations or helps you with an issue your room is having, don’t feel compelled to dish out cash.
However, if the concierge sets up a special dinner with some surprise touches or goes out of their way to get you something to make your stay special, be sure to tip according to their time invested.
Butler service is a bit more hands on generally, but some resorts will have butlers that are really more like concierge.
In the case that you have a hands-on butler that is available to you via a cellphone and he or she is in charge of everything your suite needs (managing and communicating with other staff members), setting up your dinner/spa/golf/ reservations, serving you any meal in-suite, saving you chairs at the pool or beach, then this personal level of service should be a per day tip.
I suggest a minimum of $20 per day depending on how much you utilize your butler. Again, keep in mind any situations where the butler has gone above and beyond to make your stay and experience special.
So overall, anticipate having $10 for small one-off experiences from a concierge, and a minimum $150 for a week of butler service.
Waitstaff
Imagine you are sitting at the beach enjoying a book or good conversation, and a beach waiter asks what you’d like to drink.
You order your beverage of choice, receive it in a few minutes, and quickly realize you have $0 on you.
This is pretty typical as most of us head to the beach or pool with only the essentials, especially since we often leave our beach bags unattended from time to time.
First, don’t feel compelled to have cash on you when you are enjoying the resort. If you don’t feel comfortable with that, it is okay. Like I said at the beginning, the gratuities are technically included in your all-inclusive rate.
If possible, always have a few dollars on you for tips like this. A bartender, pool, or beach waiter will keep the drinks coming for $10 but will also happily accept $1 or $2 per drink.
At a restaurant where you are served buffet style, again, don’t stress if you don’t have cash. Since they likely assisted with beverages, you can leave $2-$3 if you want.
If you are being served at an a la carte restaurant, consider tipping more. Again, base this on the level of service and the quality of the dining experience. If it was a several-course meal and white-glove service, dish out a bit more. Maybe $20 in this situation. If it is a burger joint, maybe leave $5.
Housekeeping
As we wrap this up, we can’t forget about housekeeping. Simply said, these resort team members work diligently every day and generally are paid the least.
It’s so nice to come back to a freshly cleaned room, isn’t it?
I suggest leaving $5-$10 per day for your housekeeper at an all-inclusive resort.
Quick caveat
If you are planning an all-inclusive honeymoon to Sandals Resorts, gratuities are not accepted, except for butler service. So, a Sandals honeymoon will not have the same gratuity guidelines at the resort as I’ve mentioned above, but you can still tip the porter and shuttle driver as they are not Sandals employees.
I know the topic of tipping at all-inclusive resorts can be a little tricky, but I hope this information was able to help get rid of some of that uncertainty for you. The bottom line is that tipping should be part of your overall budget at an all-inclusive resort. It should be done based on the service you’ve received. You will most likely receive excellent service regardless, so there is no need to tip excessively. However, if you feel the service has been above and beyond exceptional, that’s when it’s time to show your gratitude by tipping a little more than normal.
Your wedding day is one of the most important days in your life and you want to make sure everything goes perfectly. Unfortunately, many couples don’t realize the importance of hiring a good photographer until it’s too late and they are left with photos that weren’t quite what they had in mind. In this article, we will explore some of the most common wedding photography regrets so that you can avoid making the same mistakes!
We will discuss such topics as not having enough photos taken, choosing a photographer based only on price, not having posed photos taken and neglecting to capture candid moments. With these tips in hand, you can ensure that your special day is captured in all its glory!
Not Having Enough Photos Taken
One of the most common wedding photography regrets is not having enough photos taken. This can be due to a variety of factors, such as budget constraints, time limitations, or simply not booking enough time with the photographer. While it may seem like a minor detail at the time of planning, having too few photos taken can result in major disappointment once your special day is over. Not having enough photos can mean missing out on certain moments that you would otherwise have captured forever.
When booking your wedding photographer, it’s important to ensure that enough time is allotted for taking pictures. Photographers typically recommend scheduling at least one hour for bridal and groom portraits, and an additional hour for family photos and other special shots. However, depending on the size of the wedding party, more time may be needed to capture all of the desired shots.
Another factor to consider when deciding how many photos to take is how you plan to use them after your big day has come and gone. After all, it’s not just about having photos for your album – you should also consider creating prints for framing or making photo books for sharing with family and friends. When taking this into account, couples should aim to have at least twice as many pictures taken than they think they need so that they have plenty of options when it comes time to print their favorites!
Ultimately, while hiring a good photographer is important in creating beautiful memories from your wedding day, having enough photos taken cannot be overlooked either! Taking into account factors such as budget constraints and desired uses for your photographs will help guarantee that you have plenty of beautiful images from your big day – helping keep those special memories alive forever!
Choosing a Photographer Based Only on Price
When it comes to choosing a wedding photographer, couples often make the mistake of choosing one based only on price. While it is certainly important to find a photographer that fits within your budget, relying solely on cost can result in some potentially costly mistakes.
Choosing a photographer based solely on price can mean missing out on important details such as experience and skill level. It’s important to remember that photography is an art form, and therefore requires years of practice and professional training. A good photographer will have the experience and knowledge necessary to be able to capture those special moments in unique and creative ways. Furthermore, selecting a photographer who offers more than just a low-cost package may give you access to features such as digital prints, additional album pages or even digital albums with videos included!
It is also essential to consider quality when selecting a wedding photographer – no matter what the cost. Quality should never be sacrificed for budget constraints; instead, look for packages that offer both quality and value. For example, photographers who offer high-resolution images as part of their packages will often provide prints with better color accuracy, sharper detail and higher longevity than those taken with lower resolution cameras or film.
While finding an affordable wedding photographer is important, it is essential not to choose one based solely on price. Taking into account factors such as experience and skill level, quality of the photos taken, availability of digital prints and extra features will help ensure that you get the best possible pictures from your special day – without breaking the bank!
Not Having Posed Photos Taken
Posed photographs can be some of the most memorable images captured on a wedding day. They are moments that reflect the joy and excitement of the occasion and they can be cherished for years to come. Unfortunately, many couples forget to include posed photos in their wedding photography package, leading to regrets later on.
When it comes to posed photographs, it is essential to consider both the number of shots taken as well as the variety of poses. Depending on how large your wedding party is, photographers typically suggest taking at least 40-50 posed photos with a mix of traditional and modern poses. Traditional poses may include formal groups, individuals, couples and family portraits, while more modern and creative poses could include action shots or candid moments between loved ones.
In addition to selecting a range of poses for your portrait session, it is also important to consider where your photos should take place. Photographers often recommend finding backdrops with interesting colors and textures that will create an eye-catching contrast against the subjects in the photo. Some popular choices for photo backdrops include gardens, parks and other scenic outdoor locations or even grand indoor venues such as churches or ballrooms.
Finally, couples should also keep in mind that posed photos often have added benefits such as being able to creatively document special details from their big day – like rings, bouquets or wedding attire – that can’t be captured any other way. As such, having a good photographer who knows how to capture these details will not only help you create beautiful memories of your special day but also ensure that all the little details are remembered forever!
Not having enough posed photos taken on your wedding day can be one of the biggest regrets couples face when looking back at their special day’s memories. It’s essential to make sure there is enough time allotted during the portrait session so that all desired shots are properly captured with plenty of creative variations and backdrops available for added visual interest! With this in mind, choosing a photographer who understands how best to capture these moments will ensure you have plenty of beautiful photos from your big day – helping make those memories last forever!
Neglecting to Capture Candid Moments
Candid moments are some of the most beloved photos from wedding days, as they capture special and intimate moments between the couple and their loved ones that cannot be posed. Unfortunately, many couples neglect to include candid photography in their package due to time constraints or budget limitations, resulting in missed opportunities to capture truly unique and beautiful memories of their special day.
In order to ensure that all the important moments on a wedding day are captured, it’s essential to find a photographer who specializes in candid photography. This type of photographer will understand how best to approach capturing these moments without intruding on the experience – meaning they can provide an unobtrusive presence while still capturing all the little details. Candid photographers will also usually make use of natural lighting and different angles in order to create interesting compositions that highlight both the emotions and people involved in each scene.
In addition to finding a photographer who specializes in candid photography, couples should also consider having additional sessions outside the usual wedding day timeline such as pre-wedding photoshoots or post-wedding trash-the-dress shoots. These additional sessions are great for adding more dynamic shots that can’t be taken on the wedding day itself – such as romantic couple portraits at sunset or fun beach photos with your bridal party – thus providing even more variety for your album.
Finally, if you’re looking for an even more personal touch for your album, there are also now apps available which offer custom photobooks tailored to each couple’s specific interests and personalities. With this option you can choose from a range of themes – such as travel stories or vintage albums – and then customize it further by selecting your own images, changing colors and fonts, adding filters etc., making it easier than ever before to create a one-of-a-kind keepsake that truly captures your special day!
Neglecting to capture candid moments on your wedding day is one of the most common regrets couples have when looking back at their memories afterwards. It is therefore important to invest in a quality photographer who has experience taking candid shots alongside posed photos so that all those little details can be remembered forever!
In conclusion, choosing a good photographer for your wedding day is essential in order to ensure that all the special moments and details of your big day are captured.
Not having enough posed photos taken or neglecting to capture candid moments can be some of the biggest wedding photography regrets couples have when looking back at their memories afterwards – so it’s important to take time researching photographers who specialize in both types of photography.
Additionally, you should also consider investing in additional sessions outside the usual wedding day timeline such as pre-wedding photoshoots or post-wedding trash-the-dress shoots; these extra shots will help provide even more variety for your album!
Finally, custom photobooks tailored specifically to each couple’s interests and personalities offer an even more personal touch – making sure that no detail is forgotten from one of life’s most memorable days.
Your wedding is an event that you want to be special and memorable. To make your big day memorable, you need to start with stunning wedding invitations that set the tone for your big day. Invitations act as the first glimpse into your wedding. You want your wedding guests to feel excited and look forward to your big day right from the invitations. But, how do you achieve that? Lucky for you, we have got you covered. In this post, we are going to share with you trendy invitation styles for your wedding stationery and why you should hire a professional and not use an online printer.
1. Elegant Wedding Invite
Elegant wedding invitations are classic and timeless, perfect for any wedding theme. Choosing this style of invitation sets the tone for a sophisticated wedding. An elegant invitation usually features a classic script font, high-quality paper, and a neutral color palette. An elegant wedding invitation is versatile, and you can add some personal touches like a wax seal, some metallic ink accents, or silk ribbons.
2. Rustic Wedding Invite
If you are planning for an outdoor wedding, a rustic wedding invitation is the perfect option for you. Rustic wedding invitations usually feature natural textures like burlap, twine, and woodgrain. The fonts used for rustic wedding invitations are usually hand-lettered and convey a warm, cozy, and charming vibe. You can also complement this style of invitation with other rustic elements like floral illustrations or animal motifs.
3. Minimalistic Wedding Invite
If you are the type of person who prefers a clean, modern, and straightforward look, a minimalistic wedding invitation style is perfect for you. Minimalistic invitations usually feature a single color or a limited color palette. The fonts used are usually simple sans-serif or serif fonts. A minimalistic invitation will set the expectations of chic and sophisticated simplicity for your big day.
4. Boho Wedding Invite
Boho or bohemian style wedding invitations are ideal if you plan to have a flower crown, a breezy lace dress, and a dreamy outdoor wedding party. Boho invitations usually feature floral illustrations as well as decorated native and ethnic-style borders. The fonts used usually have a playful yet elegant feel. Incorporating natural elements such as feathers or leaves will enhance the boho feeling.
Why Hire a Professional and Not Use an Online Printer
After deciding on the best style of invitation for your wedding, it is essential to hire a professional to design and print them. Avoid the temptation of using an online printer because you will regret it. Here are three reasons why:
1. Quality Guaranteed
Professional designers have specialized and high-quality equipment, paper, and ink. This ensures that your invitations are of high quality- and can withstand any printing or shipping process.
2. Personalized Customer Service
With an online printer, you are often left to your own devices when it comes to designing your invitations. On the other hand, a professional wedding invitation designer provides a personalized experience. The designer will work with you from ideation to final design, and everything in between. They will also help you pick the perfect invitation style that meets your needs.
3. Customizable and Unique Design
Hiring a professional designer means you get to have a unique, customized design that is different from pre-made templates. The designer can design invitations that have a unique interpretation of your wedding invitations-yet reflect your personality, wedding theme, and color scheme.
Wedding invitations set the tone for your wedding day experience. With the trendy invitation styles we have shared, you can choose the best invitation style that suits your wedding theme, personality, and preferences. After choosing an invitation style, it is essential to hire a professional to design and print your invitations. This will ensure a high-quality, customized, and unique design that your guests will love. Wedding invitations are a reflection of your love story; make sure they’re perfect.
Honeymoon travel is not as simple as it sounds. Where do you go? Who do you trust? What if it isn’t as good as what’s shown on the website? These are just some of the questions couples will ask themselves when they try to find the perfect location for their honeymoon. There are plenty of things to consider and decisions to make to ensure you have an amazing honeymoon. That’s where a honeymoon travel specialist can help!
They will offer you the best chance to have romance, relaxation, and fun, while not having to worry about the little details! Whether you’re a couple wanting to explore the world, or looking for a relaxing vacation on your own, a honeymoon travel specialist can make your experience easier and more enjoyable. From helping you find the perfect destination to creating itineraries for the perfect honeymoon experience, a honeymoon travel specialist can have you off to paradise in no time!
Let’s explore the top five reasons to work with a honeymoon travel specialist for your honeymoon:
Knowledge of a Variety of Honeymoon Properties
Honeymoon travel specialists have knowledge of a variety of destinations & resort brands that are a cut above other types of resorts & properties for an amazing honeymoon.
A honeymoon travel specialist can recommend resorts that will offer you…
Privacy
Romantic extras like candlelight dinners and a couple’s massage
Perks/amenities
Romantic & pampering suites
Amazing spa experiences
All of these details are vitally important when it comes to having a great honeymoon experience!
The Best Honeymoon Packages
A honeymoon travel consultant knows the best honeymoon packages that will enhance your honeymoon and the requirements to qualify for them!
All too often, couples think that they can show up and receive the honeymoon amenities without understanding the qualifications or how to set it up in advance. Unfortunately, they are highly disappointed when they don’t get any of the perks and that is a disappointing way to start your happily ever after.
Setting Up Special Experiences
A honeymoon travel consultant not only can do all of the above, but also will recommend, design, & set up unique and special experiences for your honeymoon. Note: If you are working with a “honeymoon specialist” who doesn’t guide you or recommend special experiences for you to enjoy on your honeymoon, then you are working with the wrong person.
Here are a just a few of the special experiences a honeymoon specialist can design and set up to take your honeymoon from good to AMAZING!
Set up a private upgraded transfer with VIP service.
Schedule a couple’s massage/breakfast in bed/picnic on the beach
Set up off-site excursions, like a cultural tour, ziplining, swimming with dolphins, rum tasting, and so much more
As well as many other recommend must-do activities, & sites to see, or places to eat that you can only experience in your area.
Giving You VIP Status
Your honeymoon consultant can make sure you and your new spouse are wowed upon arrival from the minute you step foot on your resort by…
Personally contacting the resort concierge and sales team to notify them that they have VIP honeymooners arriving.
Sharing any special requests that you may have with the appropriate team member to make sure they are implemented! (It’s not just a comment on a booking that we hope gets seen).
Following up on the honeymoon amenities to ensure you receive them.
Skipping the 1-800-WAIT-ON-HOLD and Crossing Your Fingers that You Get the Help You Need
Let’s face it, we’ve all experienced the 1-800 “call center” with the random agent who doesn’t know you or your honeymoon from Adam! You’re just a number to these types call centers, and the last thing you want is for an error to happen during your honeymoon planning. A true honeymoon consultant will be with you from start to finish and care about you and every detail of your honeymoon. They will listen to what you want in a honeymoon experience so that they can recommend a destination and resort that is the perfect fit for you, Every question.
Any special requests? Even needs you may have while in your destination or after your honeymoon is complete. Let’s face it, no online booking engine is going to do that.
A honeymoon travel specialist can help simplify the process of planning and coordinating your dream honeymoon. He or she can assist you with all the little details like transportation, excursions, and suggestions for what to do on your honeymoon once you have arrived at your destination. Your honeymoon specialist will also be there to find you the best value possible and handle any emergencies that might come up during your honeymoon. And most of the time, they’re more than happy to answer any questions you have before or during your honeymoon.
Ultimately, a good honeymoon travel specialist is simply someone who you can trust to help you plan an amazing honeymoon, so that you focus on your upcoming wedding rather than stressing out over planning your honeymoon! When you find a honeymoon specialist who has your best “honeymoon” interest at heart, it can make all of the difference in the world.
If you’re in the midst of planning your honeymoon and feel like you’re stuck and not getting very far, I encourage you to use this link, to schedule a free 30-minute strategy session with me! I would be honored to help your figure out everything you need for an amazing honeymoon! Remember this isn’t just any vacation, this is the beginning of your new life together!
Your first dance as newlyweds is an incredibly special moment. It marks the beginning of a new life together and signifies your commitment to one another. As such, choosing the perfect song for this romantic occasion can be quite daunting. Fortunately, there are plenty of beautiful and timeless love songs that make great picks for a first dance song. To help you choose the most romantic song for your wedding day, here are some of our favorite classic love songs that will make your first dance truly unforgettable.
Choosing the perfect first dance song for your wedding is an important decision.
After all, this moment will be remembered and cherished by you and your partner forever, so it’s essential to pick a song that perfectly captures the sentiment of the occasion. Not only that, but picking the right song can also help create an unforgettable atmosphere at your wedding reception. With so many classic love songs available to choose from, finding the ideal track for your special day might seem overwhelming – but don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with some timeless classics that make great picks for a first dance song.
When it comes to choosing the perfect first dance song for your wedding, there are plenty of timeless classics that make great picks.
Here are nine classic love songs that you may want to consider for your special day:
“At Last” by Etta James: This romantic ballad has been a hit since its release in 1960 and is often performed at weddings. With its slow tempo and heartfelt lyrics, this song makes an excellent choice for a first dance.
“Everything” by Michael Bublé: This upbeat track by Canadian singer-songwriter Michael Bublé is sure to get you and your partner out on the dance floor! It’s full of energy and emotion, making it perfect for that first magical moment together.
“Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers: This hauntingly beautiful love song is one of the most popular choices for a wedding day first dance. With its gentle words, passionate chorus and memorable melody, it’s easy to see why this classic has become synonymous with romance.
“Your Song” by Elton John: Written in 1970 as a tribute to his then-girlfriend, this classic piano ballad quickly became an iconic love song. From its tender lyrics to its catchy tune, this track will have you and your partner swaying side-by-side from start to finish!
“I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing” by Aerosmith: Released in 1998, this hard rock power ballad won an Academy Award nomination and quickly became one of the most popular songs to play during weddings, ceremonies and receptions alike.
“Can’t Help Falling In Love” by Elvis Presley: Written in 1961 and sung famously by Elvis Presley himself, this classic love song features simple yet meaningful lyrics about life-long devotion – making it an ideal choice for couples that are ready to commit themselves entirely to each other forever!
“God Only Knows” by The Beach Boys: This whimsical pop tune was released in 1966 but continues to be incredibly popular today – particularly at weddings! It has been featured prominently in movies such as Love Actually and Wedding Crashers, making it a great pick for any romantic occasion!
“Make You Feel My Love” by Adele: Written originally by Bob Dylan in 1997 but covered more famously by Adele in 2008, this stunningly soulful piece is all about expressing intense feelings of love with nothing more than words – something that couples tying the knot can definitely relate to!
“All Of Me” By John Legend: Released in 2013 ,this chart topping single has become something of a signature tune when it comes down to expressing undying adoration . With its emotional lyrics ,beautiful vocals ,and memorable melody – ‘All of Me’ is certainly one of the best choices if you’re looking for the perfect first dance.
When it comes to selecting the perfect first dance song for your wedding, there are countless classic love songs to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a slow tempo and heartfelt lyrics or an upbeat track full of energy and emotion, there’s a timeless classic out there that will perfectly capture the sentiment of your special day.
From Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling In Love” to Adele’s “Make You Feel My Love”, these nine classic love songs can make great picks for a first dance – but the key is to find the one that speaks to you and your partner the most. Ultimately, it’s up to each couple to decide which song best expresses their own unique feelings of love and devotion towards each other, making their first dance as husband and wife all the more special.
Your wedding ceremony is a once-in-a-lifetime event that should be filled with love, joy, and special memories. It’s the perfect opportunity to express your commitment and devotion to each other in front of all your family and friends. To make this experience unforgettable, hiring an experienced professional wedding officiant is key. A qualified wedding officiant will ensure the ceremony runs smoothly from start to finish while providing personalized touches that reflect the couple’s unique style and personalities. With their expertise, couples can have peace of mind knowing they are in good hands for one of the most important days of their lives!
Hiring a professional wedding officiant is essential to ensuring your wedding ceremony is perfect.
With their expertise, couples can be sure that all the details and details of the ceremony will be taken care of in an organized and professional manner. A qualified officiant can also provide personalized touches that make the ceremony unique to the couple’s style and personalities, such as special readings or meaningful rituals.
A good wedding officiant will be knowledgeable about different religious traditions, customs, and legal requirements for performing weddings. This means they are well-equipped to handle any unexpected issues that could arise during the ceremony. They can also provide helpful advice on how to personalize a service or create a memorable atmosphere for guests. In addition, many officiants have relationships with vendors such as florists or musicians who could help create an even more beautiful ceremony setting.
Aside from these tangible benefits, having a professional officiant can help ease stress associated with planning the big day. The right person will take care of all the important details and guide you through every step of the process – from helping you choose readings or music to creating a timeline for your rehearsal dinner. An experienced officiant will also ensure everything runs smoothly on your special day so that all eyes are on you and your partner as you exchange vows!
Aside from these tangible benefits, having a professional officiant can help ease stress associated with planning the big day.
The right person will take care of all the important details and guide you through every step of the process – from helping you choose readings or music to creating a timeline for your rehearsal dinner. An experienced officiant will also ensure everything runs smoothly on your special day so that all eyes are on you and your partner as you exchange vows!
Hiring a professional wedding officiant can help make your special day perfect. They can take care of all the details and provide personalized touches that reflect you and your partner’s style. They know lots of things about different religious traditions, customs, and laws so they can handle any problems that come up during the ceremony. A good wedding officiant will also have relationships with other vendors who can help make your ceremony even more special.
Most importantly, an experienced officiant will help you plan everything and make sure it runs smoothly on the day so you don’t have to worry about anything else!
When searching for a wedding officiant, it is important to seek out someone with the right qualities to ensure they provide an exceptional experience.
An exceptional wedding officiant should be knowledgeable and experienced in all aspects of wedding planning, including religious traditions and laws. They should also have a friendly and accommodating demeanor to ensure a successful ceremony that reflects the couple’s unique style and personalities.
It is also important for a wedding officiant to have excellent written and verbal communication skills so that they can clearly explain the steps of the ceremony to both the couple and their guests. This will help create a seamless transition between each part of the ceremony, allowing everyone involved to enjoy the special moment without confusion or disruption. Furthermore, an experienced officiant should be familiar with different types of ceremonies so that they can provide helpful recommendations on which rituals or readings would best suit your event.
Finally, an exceptional wedding officiant understands how important this day is for you and your partner – so it is essential that they are reliable and organized when it comes to coordinating your big day. Before selecting a wedding officiant, be sure to ask them questions about their experience level as well as any weddings they have performed in the past. It is also helpful if they have references from other couples who can speak positively on their behalf. By making sure you pick an experienced professional who has all these qualities, you can look forward to having a beautiful ceremony filled with love and joy!
When planning a wedding, having a professional wedding officiant is essential to ensure that everything runs smoothly.
Here are some tips on how couples can maximize their experience and get the most out of working with an officiant:
Look for an experienced officiant who is knowledgeable about different religious traditions and customs. This will ensure that your ceremony reflects your own beliefs and values, as well as any legal for the event.
Ask the officiant for sample ceremonies they have performed in the past, so you can get an idea of what sort of rituals or readings they specialize in and use them to create a unique ceremony script specific to your needs.
Make sure that the officiant has excellent communication skills, both verbally and in writing, so they can clearly explain each step of the ceremony to both you and your guests.
Have a timeline prepared ahead of time so that the officiant knows when certain readings or rituals will take place during the ceremony and can keep everything running smoothly without disruption or confusion.
Find out if the officiant has connections with other vendors such as florists or musicians, who can help create an even more beautiful setting for your special day.
Make sure that you feel comfortable with your wedding officiant; it’s important to choose someone whose personality matches yours so that you enjoy working together throughout the planning process and on your big day!
By following these tips, couples can be sure to find an experienced professional wedding officiant who will make their special day perfect!
Hiring a professional wedding officiant is one of the most important steps in planning your special day. By finding someone with experience and knowledge of different religious traditions and customs, you can ensure that your ceremony reflects your own beliefs and values while also keeping everything running smoothly without disruption or confusion.
Furthermore, it’s essential to find an officiant whose personality matches yours so that you both enjoy working together throughout the process – this will make all the difference when it comes to having a beautiful ceremony filled with love and joy! With these tips in mind, couples should be able to easily find an experienced professional who meets their needs for their perfect wedding day.
When people think of a tropical honeymoon, they most likely picture the sunny beach flanked by the crystal blue Caribbean sea. This gets most people want to start planning a trip to the Caribbean or Mexico’s Riviera Maya. The waters are warm and inviting, the white sand is soft and welcoming — there’s no better way to spend your honeymoon!
If you’re planning a tropical honeymoon to the Caribbean or Mexico, it’s essential to consider the best dates to travel to avoid any weather-related stress. Weather can make or break your honeymoon experience, so it’s crucial to choose the right time of year to ensure you have a memorable vacation. To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together a list of the best dates to travel to the Caribbean and Mexico for a honeymoon without stressing over the weather.
Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect for weather in the Caribbean and Mexico based on the seasons.
Winter (December to February)
The winter months in the Caribbean and Mexico are characterized by warm and pleasant temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit. This is the peak tourist season, and you can expect crowded beaches, busy resorts, and higher prices.
While the risk of hurricanes is low during this time, there’s still a chance of rain. However, it’s usually short-lived and shouldn’t affect your plans too much. The water temperature in the Caribbean is cooler during the winter months, making it less ideal for swimming. For example, the Bahamas and surrounding islands will have colder water during this time of the year.
Also, certain areas in the Caribbean & Mexico can still have cooler temperatures, so it is best to talk to an expert to get the weather you are desiring.
Spring (March to May)
Spring is a great time to honeymoon in the Caribbean and Mexico as temperatures rise slightly, and crowds start to thin out. The average temperatures range from mid-70s to low 90s Fahrenheit, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring.
While the chances of rain and humidity increase, it’s still not enough to affect your plans significantly. The water temperature starts to warm up, making it more inviting for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The best value for your money is booking your honeymoon towards the end of April through May, as prices begin to dip as high travel season is coming to a close.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the hottest season in the Caribbean and Mexico, with temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to mid-90s Fahrenheit. It’s also the beginning of the rainy season, with tropical storms and hurricanes more likely to occur. However, the risk is relatively low in June and July but increases in August.
Despite the rain, summer is a popular time for honeymooners looking for budget-friendly options and less crowded destinations. The water temperature is warm and perfect for water sports.
Fall (September to November)
Fall can be an ideal time to travel to the Caribbean and Mexico as the crowds dwindle, and prices begin to drop. Temperatures remain warm, ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit, but the chances of hurricanes in September into October are usually the highest.
So your best value for the money is in the fall, but your chance of having some less than ideal weather is higher.
While fall is considered the low season, you can still enjoy a sunny and beautiful honeymoon if you plan accordingly.
The water temperatures are still great for swimming, and water sports as well.
Where to travel during hurricane season:
If your honeymoon travel dates are during hurricane season, especially August – October, there are destinations in the Caribbean and Mexico that are located outside the “typical path” of a hurricane.
You may want to consider speaking with a honeymoon consultant like myself who specializes in honeymoons to the Caribbean and Mexico to help you pick the right location for you.
The best locations in The Caribbean to travel to during hurricane season are Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao.
The best location in Mexico to travel to in hurricane season is Los Cabos.
Hurricanes can still occur in these locations but it is very rare.
Just Because It’s Hurricane Season Doesn’t Mean One Will Happen
As we wrap this up, it is normal to be concerned about a hurricane ruining your honeymoon, but I always tell my honeymoon couples that just because it is hurricane season doesn’t mean that a hurricane will develop.
The beauty of today’s technology is that you can know well in advance if a tropical storm or hurricane is on a path to “hit” your destination. Getting quality travel insurance is advised to protect your investment in case you have to postpone, or even leave your destination early.
My personal advice is to manage your expectations and decide that you won’t let anything ruin your honeymoon experience as you have control over how you respond.
Overall, the best dates to travel to the Caribbean and Mexico for a tropical honeymoon without stressing over the weather are during their dry seasons –mid-December to mid-April for the Caribbean and December to April for Mexico. However, if you want to avoid the crowds and save money, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons.
Regardless of when you choose to visit, there’s always something to see and do at these beautiful destinations, which offer plenty of romantic experiences and unforgettable memories. So, plan your trip accordingly, manage your expectations, have some fun games and conversation starters on the ready for when you’re hanging out at the lobby bar, and make the most of your honeymoon vacation…rain or shine!
The important thing is to make sure that you’re comfortable with your plans, and that you make an informed decision about where and when to travel. We hope the weather information in this guide will help you choose a safe, trouble-free vacation and smooth the way for your tropical honeymoon.
Your wedding ceremony is one of the most important moments in your life. It’s a time when you and your partner commit to each other, and make promises that will last a lifetime. But it can also be an incredibly intimate experience, with meaningful rituals that create lasting memories for everyone involved.
If you want to create an intimate moment during your wedding ceremony, there are some key steps you can take to ensure it’s as special as possible. From personalizing traditional elements of the ceremony to designing a unique celebration that reflects your values, this article will provide tips on how to craft an unforgettable experience for both you and your guests.
Personalize the traditional elements of your ceremony
Personalizing the traditional elements of your wedding ceremony can add a unique and memorable touch to your special day. One way to personalize your ceremony is by incorporating family heirlooms or meaningful items into the ceremony. Whether it’s a family quilt, a locket, or a favorite poem, having these special items present in the ceremony will make it more meaningful.
Another way to personalize the traditional elements of your wedding ceremony is by customizing certain parts of the ritual. For example, you could write your own vows, exchange rings with personal engraving, or even include an original song in the proceedings. By changing up these traditional elements and making them unique to you and your partner, you can create an intimate and special moment that will be remembered for years to come.
Finally, if you want to make sure that all aspects of your wedding are meaningful, consider asking family members to contribute in different ways. You could ask close relatives to provide readings during the ceremony or have them take part in some of the rituals like exchanging rings or lighting a unity candle together. This will not only make their presence more meaningful but also strengthen ties between all members of the family involved in the celebration.
Design a ceremony that reflects your values
Designing a wedding ceremony that reflects your values is essential to creating an intimate and meaningful moment. Through careful planning, you can ensure that the ceremony resonates with both you and your partner’s beliefs, while also incorporating special traditions and rituals.
One way to design a ceremony that reflects your values is by adding symbolic gestures or readings that are meaningful to you. For example, if you are religious, consider incorporating traditional readings from your faith. Or, if family unity is important to you, include a unity candle lighting where each member of the family takes turns lighting their own candle and then together they light the center one. These kinds of rituals can be incredibly powerful and will serve as lasting reminders of what is important to you as a couple.
In addition to symbolic gestures, another way to personalize a wedding ceremony is by writing original vows or creating a time for couples counseling during the ceremony. Writing original vows gives couples an opportunity to express their love for each other in their own words and share why they want to commit themselves to this relationship. Couples counseling during the ceremony also allows couples to share their thoughts on marriage with one another before making the commitment. This unique ritual will help them prepare for married life while also highlighting how much they value each other’s opinions.
Finally, when designing a wedding ceremony that reflects your values, don’t forget about music! Choosing music from different genres like classical, gospel or rock can give guests insight into different parts of your personalities as well as add an emotional layer that will make for memorable moments throughout the day.
Overall, designing a wedding ceremony that reflects your values can lead to an unforgettable experience for everyone involved. From symbolic gestures like exchanging rings or lighting candles, to readings or personalized vows – these small details can make all the difference in creating an intimate atmosphere and lasting memories for years to come.
Incorporate meaningful rituals into your wedding
Incorporating meaningful rituals into your wedding ceremony can be a great way to make it more personal and special. While some couples may opt for traditional religious rituals, there are many other meaningful ways to honor your relationship and the commitment you are making to each other.
One popular ritual involves having family members join in on exchanging rings or lighting unity candles. Not only is this an incredibly touching gesture, but it is also a great way to recognize the importance of family and its role in your relationship. You could even have a special family object — like a quilt passed down from generation to generation — that everyone involved holds during the ritual as a sign of unity.
Another meaningful ritual is incorporating an exchange of letters between couples before the ceremony. This could be done privately or during the ceremony itself, depending on how intimate you would like the moment to be. The letters should express why you are committing yourselves to each other and what marriage means to both of you. It’s an incredibly powerful gesture that will add so much meaning and sentimentality to your ceremony.
Finally, consider including special readings that are unique to you and your partner’s values and beliefs. Whether it’s passages from religious texts, inspiring quotes from literature, music lyrics, or original poems — these readings can offer insight into who you both are as individuals as well as bring focus back on why you are gathering together for this special day.
By incorporating meaningful rituals into your wedding ceremony, not only will your guests feel more connected with what’s happening but it will also ensure that this occasion resonates with both of you forever. So take time before the big day to plan out what kinds of rituals will have the most significance for both of you and make sure they become an integral part of your wedding ceremony!
Choose music, readings and other elements to create an intimate atmosphere
When it comes to creating an intimate atmosphere for a wedding ceremony, couples can choose music, readings, and other elements that reflect their values and beliefs. Music can be chosen from a variety of genres such as classical, gospel or rock depending on the couple’s personalities. This can help to add an emotional layer to the ceremony that will make for more memorable moments. Readings can also be selected from religious texts, inspiring quotes from literature, music lyrics or original poems. These readings can offer insight into the couple’s values and beliefs while also bringing focus back on why they are gathering together for this special day.
In addition to choosing music and readings, couples may want to consider incorporating meaningful rituals into their wedding ceremony. For example, having family members join in the exchange of rings or lighting unity candles is a touching gesture that honors the relationship between two families. Couples could also write original vows or create a time for couples counseling during the ceremony which allows them to share their thoughts on marriage before making the commitment.
Finally, small details like decorations can play an important role in creating an intimate atmosphere as well. Choosing decorations that represent both partners’ personalities will not only add personalization but will also help guests feel connected with what is happening throughout the day.
By carefully selecting music, readings and other elements for their wedding ceremony, couples can create an intimate atmosphere that reflects their values and beliefs while ensuring that this special day resonates with them forever.
Consider using symbolic items such as candles or flowers to add meaning to the event
Using symbolic items such as candles or flowers can be a great way to add meaning and significance to a wedding ceremony. Candles, for example, can represent the union of two people becoming one flame, while flowers can signify growth and beauty. Choosing specific types of flowers or colors of candles can also add a personal touch — like red roses to signify love, white candles to symbolize purity, or lavender to symbolize grace.
These tokens of symbolism can be used in many different ways throughout the ceremony, from giving each other floral bouquets in exchange for marriage vows or using unity candles during the ring exchange. Flowers can also be included in decorations throughout the venue — like adorning the aisle with a mix of colorful blooms or having flower-filled centerpieces on each table at the reception. These small touches will help your wedding stand out and bring more life into your special day.
In addition to these symbolic items, couples can also include meaningful rituals in their ceremony that reflect their values and beliefs. Such rituals could include an exchange of letters expressing why they are committing themselves to each other, incorporating family objects into the ceremony as a sign of unity, or incorporating readings from religious texts, inspiring quotes from literature, music lyrics or original poems that offer insight into who they both are as individuals.
By carefully selecting music, readings, decorations and other elements for their wedding ceremony, couples can create an intimate atmosphere that reflects their values and beliefs while ensuring that this special day resonates with them forever. Incorporating symbolic items such as candles and flowers will add even more sentimentality and emotion to their big day, making it truly memorable experience for everyone involved.
Consider having family members participate in the ceremony
Having family members participate in the ceremony is a wonderful way to honor the relationship between two families. From having parents give away the bride and groom, to siblings or other close family members participating in the ring exchange or the lighting of unity candles, these meaningful gestures can add a personal touch to the ceremony that will make it even more special.
Another way for couples to involve their families in the ceremony is by asking them to give readings. Couples can choose readings from religious texts, inspiring quotes from literature, music lyrics or original poems that offer insight into their values and beliefs. These readings can be particularly powerful when read by family members; not only do they provide an opportunity for loved ones to show their support, but also allow them to share a piece of themselves with others present at the wedding.
Couples may also consider having family members take part in other meaningful rituals during the ceremony. For example, having siblings or parents join in during the exchange of vows or writing original letters expressing why they are committing themselves to each other is another way for couples to honor those closest to them while embracing a commitment of love and unity among all those present.
Including family members in your wedding ceremony is a beautiful way to make sure that everyone is part of this special day and will help ensure that your wedding will be one filled with love and cherished memories that you will all remember forever.
Set up a special moment for just you and your partner during the ceremony
In order to make their wedding ceremony even more special, couples can set aside a special moment for just them and their partner during the event. This moment can be a time for the couple to share private words with each other, exchange gifts or tokens of love, or simply take a few moments to appreciate each other’s presence. Such a ritual will not only provide the couple with an intimate and meaningful exchange, but will also give them a brief respite from all the commotion that comes with planning and hosting a wedding.
One way to set up this special moment is by scheduling it right before or after the ring exchange. This will give the couple time to say what they have been wanting to express to one another in privacy, away from all the guests present at their wedding. It could even be something as simple as wishing each other well and expressing how much they mean to one another. Alternatively, couples could use this time to exchange special gifts that symbolize their commitment to each other. These gifts can range from simple items such as handmade cards expressing heartfelt messages of love, or even more extravagant items like jewelry or personalized keepsakes that can serve as reminders of their special bond long after the ceremony is over.
Couples may also choose to incorporate music into this special moment by playing an instrumental version of “their song” while they are exchanging words or gifts. Having music in the background will create an atmosphere of romance and help make this private moment between the couple feel even more magical and memorable.
Taking time out during their wedding ceremony for just the two of them is sure to add sentimentality and meaning that will make it truly unforgettable. Even though everyone else present shares in the joyous occasion, having a private space for just themselves can help couples cherish all those moments leading up to saying “I do” and make sure that their big day remains unique and filled with love forever.
Creating an intimate, memorable moment during your wedding ceremony is a great way to make the special day even more meaningful for you and your partner. Whether it’s exchanging heartfelt words or tokens of love, giving readings from religious texts or literature, having family members take part in rituals such as the exchange of vows or writing letters expressing commitment to each other, incorporating music into this private time with their song playing in the background—these are all beautiful ways couples can create a unique and unforgettable experience that will last them a lifetime. By taking some extra steps to ensure that they have a few moments just between themselves on their big day, couples will be able to cherish every second leading up to saying “I do” and ensure that their wedding remains truly remarkable forever.
When it comes to planning your wedding, there are few details as important as the guest book. It’s the perfect way to capture memories of your special day and to remember all of the people who helped make it magical. But traditional guest books can be a bit boring, and some couples are looking for something a little more unique. If that sounds like you, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we’re going to share some of our favorite ideas for unusual guest books that are sure to make your wedding one to remember.
1. “Wish” Rocks – For this guest book alternative, you’ll need a basket of small, smooth rocks and a few sharpies. Simply ask your guests to write their well-wishes, hopes, or advice onto the rocks, then place them in a pretty jar or box. You’ll end up with a beautiful keepsake that you can display in your home.
2. Jenga Blocks – Encourage your guests to play a giant game of Jenga by using the blocks as a guest book. Provide a permanent marker, and have guests sign or write messages on random blocks. It’s a fun way to create something interactive that you can enjoy for years to come.
3. Photo Album – Another great way to capture memories of your wedding day is by setting up a photo album. You can have your guests take Polaroid photos and add them to the album along with their messages. You’ll have a beautiful collection of photos and notes that you can look back on for years to come.
4. Canvas Art – Provide a blank canvas (or a few!) for your guests to write their messages on. After the wedding, you’ll have a unique piece of art that you can display in your home. And, depending on your artistic abilities, you might end up with something even more beautiful than you anticipated!
5. Custom Jigsaw Puzzle – Have a custom jigsaw puzzle made with a picture of the two of you and a blank space in the middle. Have your guests sign their names or write messages on the puzzle pieces, then put it together when the wedding is over. You’ll have a beautiful puzzle that you can display in your home.
Your wedding day is a day you’ll want to remember forever, and these unique guest book ideas are a great way to capture memories that you’ll cherish for years to come. Whether you choose a canvas art piece, a jigsaw puzzle, photo album, Jenga tiles or wish rocks, your guests will enjoy leaving their own personal touches and your special day will be truly unforgettable!
