Wedding Ideas

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So, your best friend is getting married, and it’s down to you to plan the bachelorette party, but where do you start? Bachelorette parties need to be personal, memorable, unique and to cater for often a big group of girls who all want different things, have different budgets and different ideas of fun. It can be a challenge, but if you follow the below tips, you’re guaranteed to have the best bash ever:

Make It Personal

The party is for your friend, the bride to be, to see her on her way before she goes off into married life. If you don’t know what she would like already then ask her. Does she want something crazy? A fancy dinner out or a spa day? Even if it’s not what you want or not what the other girls had in mind, make sure it’s all about her. When it comes to games, food and drink and presents, the same rule goes. What will the bride-to-be love? What is important to her? What would she choose? The do your best to plan everything around this.

Don’t Over Plan

While many bachelorette parties today are often chock full of activities and come complete with a detailed itinerary, you don’t need to plan that much actually to do. Being together and hanging out is the top priority, chatting while eating and drinking, chilling on the sofa, playing a few silly games and also relaxing are all critical. Either the girls on the guest list will know each other and want to catch up and enjoy each other’s company or others will never have met and will want to get to know each other and find out all about their friend’s friend. Be flexible, allow people to be late, people to take ages getting ready and allow extra time for the unexpected.

Have a Back-Up Plan

If you have planned certain activities or have an idea of somewhere you want to go, it is good to have some back-up options in mind just in case anything goes wrong. If someone’s flight or train is delayed, if someone drops out at the last minute, if the weather takes a turn for the worst and starts pouring down on all your outdoor activities, or the bride decides she no longer “feels like” doing whatever you had planned, then don’t panic! Have some other ideas up your sleeve and keep calm and know that it will all work out for the best.

Budget

The money side of things can be awkward when trying to arrange any group weekend away or activity. Suiting everyone’s budget to start with can be tricky and then what do people pay for upfront or what are they shelling out for on the night/weekend? So, speak to the bride, set a budget with her, and she will know roughly how much her friends can afford and what’s realistic or not. If you want to, you could ask people to share their ideas of free or low-cost activities to do, and you could plan for events, and people can decide which ones they want to do. For example, if you have a weekend away, people can determine if they can stay one or two nights if you do a couple of activities, then people can decide which ones they want to come to and which they can afford. If someone declines because of cost, then don’t take it personally.

Also, remember, if you’re all covering the cost of the bride then make sure you discuss this with the other girls beforehand to make sure everyone’s happy to do so and they know much they are putting in. Then if the bride decides to splurge on a bottle of champagne later on, then that’s up to her.

Don’t Stress About The Guest List

Get a list from the bride of who she wants to invite, she might want a small affair, or she might wish to have everyone there. She might want to include her Mom and aunties or keep it to friends. So, make sure you have a guest list from her and then take it from there. You can give an update to the bride of who said they can and can’t come. There might be someone she really wants there, so for example, if you float a date around the group and someone the Bride really wants there can’t make that date, then change it to make sure the bride gets as many of the people she loves there.

Set Up a Group Chat

The best way to speak to everyone and to come up with a list of possible dates is to set up a group chat. See which dates the bride can do first, the more date options, the better so you can pick a time that suits most of the other girls. If you can get a list of “priority guests” from the bride, this will help and will mean it’s easier to find a date that suits them all. Once you have this sorted, let everyone know the preferred date and then give them an indication of what you are playing and the budget you are working towards so they have time to decide whether they can come.

Ask for Help

Once you’ve got the plan sorted, you have a guest list and a budget, then the best thing to do is to divide and conquer. A lot of work goes into planning a great party, especially when it’s for someone you love, so let the others get stuck in. Give jobs to people and play to their strengths rather than trying to manage everything on your own. If someone is a great cook or baker, then ask them to bring some food or make a cake. If others are creative, ask them to take care of decorations, or come up with some games. If there’s anyone who can’t make it, ask them if they want to be involved by sending a video or organizing something which you can do on their behalf, even if it’s to pay for a round of drinks, send a gift or arrange a quiz which you play in their absence.

Do You Need A Theme?

Depending on what you’re doing, you might want to think about a theme. Is the bride a massive fan of something? Or perhaps you want to do something different, it could be a beach party where you’ll want to get some Hawaiian leis, you could all dress as cowgirls, or it could be a more traditional event where you tell the bride to dress in white, and everyone else wears black or another bright color. Get some accessories; if you’re not keen on the sashes, there are many other things you can do, you could opt for something more subtle like wristbands, personalized T-shirts or personalized hats? Again, what would the bride want? What would she choose and what would suit her most?

Party Packs

If you have allowed for some extras in the budget (which is an excellent idea), then make sure to have your party packs or goodie bags ready to hand over to the guests. This works as an excellent ice-breaker if you’re meeting a load of girls who you’ve never met before, and it also shows your bride that you’ve put lots of thought into her hen. Make sure to include anything they might need for any activities you have planned, as well as any casual dressing up bits. You can also do a little hangover pack which can include items such as painkillers, crisps and a can of Coke or bottle of water to soothe those sore heads in the morning. Get some personalized tote bags and little hen accessories to go with as it’s a nice little touch to the weekend or night.

Don’t Forget the Fiancé!

One of the best and most popular parts of the bachelorette party involves getting the fiancé involved in some way. It could be a cute video message or full-on Q&A sessions where the bride has to take a shot for every answer she guesses wrong. Or a game of Mr. and Mrs. It’s really lovely and makes the bride’s partner feel part of the festivities as well as reminds her on the night about what this party is for and why she’s getting married in the first place.

Finally, Have Fun!

Don’t stress – the most important thing to do is to enjoy yourself and to make sure the bride does too. If it doesn’t all go to plan, then don’t worry about it, the idea is that the bride has some quality time and fun with her closest friends before her big day and that’s all that matters. Speak to all the girls beforehand and make sure everyone knows that that’s the end goal, it’s all about having fun, if anyone doesn’t like anyone else, tell them to bury it for the weekend and remember that it’s about the bride.

The Ugly Truth

Photo by Janisel R at ClassicPhotographers.com

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The ugly truth is that we all want something that we can’t have. We all want to be someone that were not and want to have features that are completely opposite to our genetic build up. We want to change ourselves and upgrade the person that were tired of being. But no matter how much weight you lose, how many times you change and cut your hair. No matter how much make up you wear and the shade of your skin, in the end you will always be you.

How We’re Born

Humans were naturally born with negative minds and lingering thoughts. Constantly thinking about ways to get better and how to improve ourselves; but ignoring the greatness and positive aspect in accomplishments and self love. We don’t appreciate how amazing it is to be individuals and dwell on how we can’t be like everyone else. Here’s some advice no one has probably ever told you: Don’t strive to be normal.

Normal is Overrated

It doesn’t pay to be like everyone else. Your life is a blessing, an untold story. One day when you have children of your own and they ask you about your life, do you want to tell them someone else’s story or your own?

Embracing Fear

Yeah, it is scary to be an individual. There’s always criticism and judgement, but why let the opinions of others hold you back? In the future, do you want to regret not being the person you want to be? Regret trying so hard to change yourself for others? Or would you rather find joy in being the person you are presently, and embrace your talents, features, and personality?

The Beauty of Self Actualization

Your not narcissistic if you love who you are. If anything, you’re braver than most people because positive minds are rare in this society. It’s sad to think that positive minds are rare, but it’s the ugly truth. Most people spend the entirety of their lives impressing their peers and living in stability rather than doing what they love and being happy in the things they enjoy.

Breaking Free

Break free from conformity and don’t be like everyone else. You don’t need to be a model, have the perfect hair, walk in heels or have the golden tan. No matter what others think, embrace who you are because you ARE beautiful. You’re beautiful by your looks, your mind, your passions and desires. You don’t need to change the person you are for others or for approval. Because in the end, nothing is going to matter. All that does matter is how you look at yourself. And if you choose love rather than hate, the world will feel like a breathe of fresh air rather than suffocating smog.

 Love Is Encouraging

Though you want to look breathtaking for him as well. But he loves you with all his heart. He’s marrying you because he loves the person you are and you don’t need to change to keep that love eternal. Don’t stress over your hair, and how your make up isn’t perfect. Don’t stress because your dress is an inch too long and how you chipped a nail before I do. Because he isn’t looking at your nails, your hair, your body or your imperfections. He’s looking at you. He’s looking at the past and when he first fell in love with you. He’s looking at the future for when you have a family, buy a house and grow old together. And he’s looking at you presently, and how you’re going to become his wife. How right now in this moment, you couldn’t be more beautiful because he is seeing you as the woman he is going to spend the rest of his life with.

Your big day is approaching – are you excited? Nervous? A little bit of both? Still looking for the perfect dress? Whether you know the exact style you’re looking for, or you’re still exploring your options we’re here to help because we want you to feel excited and beautiful in the dress of your dreams! I understand it can be overwhelming searching for your wedding dress, especially when there are so many options! A wedding is only once in a lifetime, so… no pressure, really. That’s why our team came together to find the latest and greatest in wedding dress trends for 2019! Scroll through my handpicked selections below for a sample of what’s on trend this wedding season. Adorned long sleeves, plunging necklines, clean and simple gowns, detailed backs, sparkles and flowers. Extravagent ball gowns to modern and chic pant suits. A little bit of traditional with a little bit of modern mixed in – there is something for everyone!

Mori Lee 2022 Pearlina Long Sleeve Bridal Dress

Long and lacy sleeves embellished with floral patterns combined with a feminine V-neckline make this dress an elegant and stunning look. The fit and flare silhouette is perfectly balanced by the elaborate illusion sleeves and illusion cutout back. Florals are totally desirable right now!

Mori Lee 2020 Paoletta Wedding Gown

Fancy a ball gown but still want to dance? This is a perfect fit! A classic gown silhouette paired with a sweet and modern touch – applique shoulder straps and an illusion back.

Mary’s Bridal MB3045 Bridal Gown

Plunging necklines are definitely in this season! Flattering, elongating, and feminine. A chapel train complements the low neckline and is adorned with floral embellishments. This dress hits several of this season’s trendiest features: plunging neckline, floral embellishments, and dual-spaghetti straps.

Mary’s Bridal MB3070 Wedding Dress

Layered skirts are a big one this year! Adding texture and movement without the extra material, tiered skirts can be a great feature to keep an eye out for. This gown offers a modern twist to an otherwise classic ball gown. Horsehair trims the three-tiered skirt and continues throughout the chapel train.

Mary’s Bridal MB3062 Wedding Gown

Want a train but aren’t into the full gown look? We’ve got you covered with this trumpet-style dress. A semi-chapel train, tulle skirt, and lace appliques are complete with a lace bodice and halter neckline. For an added sexy touch, corset boning accents the back.

Goodbye Fall, Hello Winter!

Photo by Amryn S at Classic Photographer

It’s the perfect time of year where every day feels like you are walking in a winter wonderland. The soft snowflakes fall mystically from the sky; delicately, beautifully and filled with happiness and joy. Christmas lights flicker from every house you walk by and the aroma of peppermint mocha is so strong that it’s hard to miss. Yes, December truly is one of the happiest times of the year. Unless your heart has shrunk two sizes too small like the classically despicable, unforgettable Grinch. Don’t fall into his trap and be lured by his disguise, but be captured by these winter wedding ceremony ideas and let them take hold of your eyes!

Tree Lighting Ceremony

I’m sure that many of you have heard of the traditional wedding ceremony’s many couples perform to symbolize “Unity”. Some families decide to perform the Sand Ceremony, the mixing of families and blending them as one. Another tradition would be the rock ceremony, in which represents the building of a foundation for the husband and wife to start their new life. But why not start a new tradition to get in the holiday spirit? Here is an idea that knocks two birds with one stone. As your guests enter the ceremony room, have a table with clear ornaments, sharpies, and anything else you would like your guests to decorate the ornaments with. Ask your guests to sign their names and decorate an ornament as your version of a guest book. Once they have done so, ask for them to place their ornament on the tree before the ceremony begins.

Once your ceremony reaches the bridge, perform a “Lighting of the Tree” ceremony. There is a lot of symbolize that stands behind this ceremony. Having your guests place the ornaments on the tree represents a few things. For one, it shows that they support you as husband and wife. Two, they embrace the growing, family tree. And finally, The tree itself represent you as a couple, and with each person that places their ornament on the tree, it shows that you’re never alone. Once the tree has been lit, it represents that you are shinning a light on a new chapter of your life. And the adventures await for you and your husband to explore.

Throw Sugar Instead of Rice

It has always been a tradition to throw rice as the newly weds leave the Church. Throwing rice is meant to symbolize rain, in which represents prosperity, fertility and good fortune. Though throwing sugar sounds a little skeptical, it may just be the perfect, winter touch you were looking for! Sugar is delicate and when captured by the light, it shines like a star in the night. Sugar also represents sweetness, happiness, good times and success. So as you throw the sugar as the newly weds leave the ceremony, not only does it represent the blessing of goodness but also resembles the falling snowflakes from the sky.

A Magical Carriage Ride

Not too long ago, there was an event held here in town called “Light Up The Night”. People walked around town shinning lights in the sky and there were magical carriage rides being given to the locals. Relocate to your reception in style! Feel the warmth of a hot drink and cover yourself with a soft blankets; hear the galloping of feet direct you towards a night of celebration and fun, and admire the change in your life as you went from fiance to wife.  It may be hard to find a carriage ride so an alternative idea would be to have some fun with a limo! Get some ideas at IL Party Bus Company.

Let these 3 winter wedding ideas be your kick start to the most wonderful time of the year. Thanks for reading!

Choosing the perfect engagement ring might seem like an impossible mission. There are so many options to choose from, and each person’s style is unique. This puts a lot of pressure on you, not to mention that some styles are more fashionable than others, so on and so forth. And while it is true that diamonds will never go out of style, since they are a girl’s best friends, in order to get it right, you should do some research in advance.

Photo Credit: Classicphotographers.com Janisel R.

Vintage-Inspired Ring

To start with, it is difficult, if not impossible to go wrong with choosing a vintage-inspired wedding ring. This applies especially if your girlfriend is the romantic type. If she appreciates romantic, dainty jewelry, she will definitely like it too.
So, what characterizes vintage-inspired engagement rings? Most items incorporate a colored stone, which should represent the personality of your beloved. At the same time, note that each specific tone is usually associated with a given type of cut. In general, long shapes such as the emerald or the oval cut are compatible with the sapphire or aquamarine stone. On the other hand, the cushion cut is mostly used for ruby stones.
If your girlfriend has a thing for vintage jewelry, you might even attempt to purchase a vintage engagement ring. In this way, you can be 100 percent sure of its uniqueness.

Halo Engagement Ring

It can be difficult to follow trends, as trends are prone to go out of style when you least expect them to. And engagement rings should withstand the test of time; therefore, most people refer them in classic styles – this brings us to the halo engagement ring, which is one of the most classic takes on the engagement ring. This is a style that has endured for a reason, and it is likely to come back strong in the springtime, as well.
Typically, the halo detail is created by surrounding a central diamond with other diamonds, which are smaller. The focus is, of course, placed on the central diamond. For a more unique look, the middle stone might be substituted for another stone, just as in the case of Kate Middleton’s classic engagement ring.

Colored Gems

And the third trend we would like to talk about is the colored gem engagement ring trend. Once again, this trend aims at displaying the bride’s preference for a color that is representative to her. This preference has been on the growth in the last couple of years, and it is expected to become even more popular in the spring of 2019. The same could be said about wedding rings made from hair, which is a trend that has been gaining a lot of popularity. Heart in Diamond does this, if you want to find out more about the trend.

We hope that our suggestions have guided you in the right direction! On a final note, make sure you buy the engagement ring that feels right and is representative for your beloved. That’s all that matters at the end of the day, aside from trends that come and go.

A Fact About True Love

Photo by Stephanie Z at Classic Photographers

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Love isn’t always going to be perfect. I mean, we can’t always expect it to be a Christmas Hallmark  special where everyone is happy and a perfect little angel. We’re all human with many different emotions, point of views and personalities. In the end, what comes into perspective is how we handle the downs of life and how to handle situations when love is questionable.

Now a days, I’ve seen too many people give up on love. There are fights and arguments and many see divorce as their only option. I’ll be honest, my relationship has hit it’s peak at certain points and starting over was a thought that lingered in my mind. But starting over is scary, especially when your heart is involved. I told myself that there was a reason why I fell in love with him in the first place. So I gave myself a little detox from his presence and took a journey back into the past.

When I struggled through the darkest of times, he was there to comfort me and help me back onto my feet. He has motivated me to do more with my life and has given me the opportunity to make memories that I never thought would ever happen to me. With him, my life has been an adventure and I have never met a man that has loved as much as he has.

Something that you need to tell yourself is that true love is never easy and you need to accept this. No man or women in this world is completely perfect, and when you marry them it means that you are accepting them as a whole, not just parts. When you’re questioning love and don’t know what to do, here are some things to consider before finalizing your mindset.

Are Your Happy?

When you wake up in the morning and look him in the eyes, ask yourself if he truly makes you happy. If he truly makes you feel loved and if not, don’t be afraid to tell him. Hiding your feelings increases the chances of you falling out of love. When you married him, you both became a team. Work through this rough patch together and remember that you shouldn’t be afraid to hide your feelings from him.

Walk Down Memory Road

Remember the times when you and him first started to fall in love with each other. Visit the places where you had your first dates and remember the little things that linger in your memory from when you first met. Is there a specific song that comes to mind? An action, quote, or goofy memory that makes you smile? Even scrolling through old photos from the past can trigger memories that can make you fall in love all over again.

For me, it’s “Thinking Out Loud By Ed Sheeran”. The first night that I met him it was at a Halloween dance back in high school. I wanted to ask him to dance and my friend made me leave early. Ironically, he found me on Facebook that night and told me that he wanted to ask me to dance too, but I disappeared. Now, whenever I hear that song I think about that night, and how when I first looked into his eyes I knew that he was the one for me.

Recognition

There are two factors that come with recognition. Recognizing the problems that interfere with your love and recognizing the reasons why you fell in love. Sometimes it can be little problems like always being late and not taking things seriously. But when you notice those things you need to surface the problems with the opportunity to be fixed. Along with recognition comes understanding and appreciation. As hard as it is, and trust me because I’ve been there, sometimes the best thing to do is to just talk to him, display the problems and have a mutual understanding that your love isn’t perfect. Nothing in this world is perfect. But in the end, the fact is once you both can except that truth, you both are going to find a deeper appreciation for one another and the flaws that come with you both.

My relationship isn’t perfect. Sometimes I get upset easily and have anxiety for no reason and he is bad at time management and is childish sometimes. But after facing facts and talking to one another about our problems, I have realized that we both have grown and matured from the past. My personality has changed and I don’t let my anxiety take over as much as it used too and he has learned to be more of an adult. But none of this would have ever of happened without confrontation.

Confrontation

Confronting the person you love about your deeper emotions can be scary. But sometimes one just has to swallow the fear for the better or worse. Ask yourself, would you rather solve the problem now in hopes of a happier future? Or would you rather let the imperfections swallow you whole until there is a permanent tear in the relationship?

There is a reason why you fell in love with him in the first place, and overall love is never going to be easy. So understand this going in and be ready to face many challenges. Marriage is only the beginning to this wild adventure and true love is the narrator to your story in progress.

From the time you start picturing your life with your significant other, to the time you finally say ‘yes’ to marrying them, there’s one piece of jewelry on your mind: the engagement ring. And, although this ring is the star of the show, there’s a really easy way to save time (and potentially money) by thinking two steps ahead.

The Appeal of Bridal Sets

After the engagement ring is finally picked out and purchased, it seems like a huge weight has been lifted off of both you and your partner’s shoulders…until a few weeks before your wedding day when you realize you forgot about your wedding bands. Then, the whole process starts over and you’re on the hunt for ring #2. So what’s the easiest way to prevent this all together? Cut down your time and hassle by purchasing a bridal set the first time around.

Photo Credit: Cleanorigin.com

Many diamond companies, like Clean Origin, offer the ease of a bridal set for many of their best
selling diamond engagement rings. Available in white, yellow and rose gold, these stunning sets will give even Dolly Parton a run for her sparkly money. Here’s a few examples of some of their best selling sets.

The Petite Floating Gem Ring Set

The delicate features of the petite floating gem ring are stunning from a mile away. Featuring a brilliant row of hand-set lab-created diamonds, the sparkle of the ring will extend more than halfway around your finger! Pair it with the stunning, yet simplistic, diamond wedding band and you have a jaw-dropping matching set!

Grand Classic Halo Bridal Set

Need more convincing to purchase a set? Look no further. The grand classic halo engagement ring alone is a sophisticated and glamorous piece, but by adding a staple band of lab-created diamonds that fits perfectly under the lip of the halo, the two pieces compliment each other and create a vision of unity.

The Eleganza Bridal Set

If you’re really hoping to ‘wow’ onlookers with some serious sparkle, the Eleganza engagement ring + matching band is the perfect way to go. Featuring a halo of lab-created diamonds that encircles and enhances the center stone of this spectacular ring, you’ll be elated that you went with a bridal set!

Starburst Halo Bridal Set

Since some engagement rings include features that would prevent a wedding band from sitting neatly underneath it, the jewelers behind Clean Origin offer many wedding bands that compliment the shape of the center stone. This contemporary yet timeless star-shaped ring is the perfect fit for the woman who likes to stand out in the crowd.

So you might be thinking, “what if I find an engagement ring that I absolutely love that doesn’t come in a bridal set?” We’re so glad you asked! Clean Origin offers a large selection of stunning and diverse wedding bands. Simply bring this up to one of their many diamond experts and they can help you find a wedding band that will work beautifully with your ring. Then, you still have a complete set at purchase and you’re still checking off two boxes in one!

If you’ve started your hunt for engagement rings, make sure you look at bridal sets or matching wedding band options. Not only will this save you time down the road, but it will be one less thing that you have to check off your pre-wedding list. Plus, it will ensure that your engagement ring and wedding band are the perfect match…just like you and your future husband/wife!

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The “I dos,” have been said, the rings have been donned and the vows have been exchanged. Now comes the fun and relaxing part: the honeymoon. And what’s a memorable honeymoon without romance?

Having planned and executed a successful wedding, you and your new spouse deserve a little joint TLC. Naturally, spending some time alone together in a different locale is romantic in itself. But there are so many ways to make this trip even more memorable, from what you pack to which activities you choose.

Here are some tried-and-true tips for a passion-filled getaway.

⦁ Make yourself comfortable: It’s definitely worth adding some personal items to your hotel room on a honeymoon — not only will it make you feel more at home, but it can also rev up the romance quite a bit. Bring some bath salts, bubbly, scented candles and of course, a passion-fueling playlist. All these things add to the sensory experience of your stay, as well as create a more enchanting ambiance. It’s a good idea to let the hotel know that you’re on your honeymoon as well. Many times, they will offer complimentary touches, like a bottle of champagne, some chocolates or flower petals on the bed upon your arrival.

⦁ Plan a spa day: After all that work planning a wedding —plus the potential stress that comes with traveling — you both deserve to kick back a bit. One of the best ways to do just that is to have a spa day. Many hotels have their own in-house spas, which means you both can roll out of bed for a leisurely brunch and then get pampered right on the property without having to worry about transportation. However, you could also research local spas to compare services and find the right facility for you. Staying at an oceanfront resort? You can look into a romantic couples’ massage right on the beach. Be sure to take advantage of the spa’s other amenities as well, like the sauna, steam room or whirlpool. Many of these services tend to be complementary with a paid service, and they present the perfect opportunity to bond while unwinding at the same time. Consider plotting out your spa experience on the first day of your honeymoon to feel rejuvenated for the rest of your trip, or on the last day to cap off the vacation on a relaxing note.

⦁ Pack some sultry surprises: In packing for your trip, there are plenty of practical items you won’t want to forget, like a killer dress for dining out, some comfy shoes for exploring and a few eye-catching accessories. But while you’re placing some basic bras and panties into your suitcase, be sure to bring along some honeymoon lingerie as well. What you choose to bring will obviously depend on your personal taste, but these should be pieces that make you feel supremely sexy — and that your significant other hasn’t seen yet. Whether you pack a subtly sensual halter teddy or an elaborate metallic lace ensemble with a matching suspender belt and handcuffs, this lingerie is sure to offer a sultry surprise when you’re enjoying some alone time after a romantic dinner al fresco.

⦁ Be spontaneous: It can be tempting to plot out every hour of every day on your honeymoon, especially if you’re visiting a locale you’ve never been to before. With so many sights to see and activities to partake in, you may try to squeeze it all in — but for the sake of romance, don’t. Overbooking yourselves for excursions, tours and reservations can add some unnecessary stress to your honeymoon — and stress can definitely kill the romance. In the interest of keeping things carefree, make sure to leave blocks of time where you don’t have anything planned, or even setting aside an entire day or two where you can feel free to do as you please. Doing so will allow you both to be more spontaneous — which means you can take those impromptu walks along the beach, enjoy an extra cocktail at that killer oceanfront bar or spend a little more time in bed before starting your day. Speaking of which, here’s a pro tip: Unless you absolutely need to for a particular reservation like a spa service, don’t set an alarm on your honeymoon. This is your time to enjoy life together on your own time. And the more well-rested and relaxed you feel, the more romantic your trip will be.

⦁ Go device-free: You know what really puts a damper on romance? Constantly checking your email, texts, Instagram and other social media. One of the best things you can do to ensure you get as much quality bonding time as possible on your honeymoon is to go device-free — as much as is realistic, anyway. Of course, you want to be reachable by family and friends in case of an emergency, and you may need to whip out your phone to look up directions to dinner. But other than that, consider your honeymoon a time to disconnect. This little digital detox eliminates distractions while you should be focusing on your time together. Plus, putting your phone away shows your S.O. that you value that time, and that nothing on your phone could possibly be more important than being in the moment with them.

In many ways, your honeymoon sets the tone for the life you’re about to build together. And a little extra effort can go a long way in making that first trip as newlyweds feel extra special. Take these tactics into account while planning your honeymoon and you’ll be primed for a getaway that’s packed with passion.

Photos by Tiffany D at ClassicPhotographers.com

There’s something enchanted and special about the flowers you choose for your wedding. They’re lively, fresh, and symbolize more than you could ever imagine. They share your personality, bring out your aura and illuminate the natural beauty you present as an individual. Flowers are also soft, delicate, and show off the caring nature and feminism of a woman. One of my favorite scripts are that of a rose. Each rose color differentiates each one, but overall each one is beautiful and pure. It’s petals are soft, like a woman’s touch. But it’s thorns are sharp and defensive, showing that woman are tough and strong though beautiful and soft.

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There is so much thought, so many stories and poems behind a single image. Flowers are more than just decoration that is nice to look at. It is a story. Which is why choosing your wedding flowers actually does more for your wedding than you think. Don’t let your flowers be just a decoration, but a trend and mood setter for your special day.

The Wedding Mood

The overall feel of your wedding can be determined by the flowers your choose. There are lot’s of moods to choose from: warm, cool, edgy, light, uplifting, romantic, silly and I’m sure that there are hundreds of more. Pick flowers that speak to you and let them represent the mood you want your guests to be in.

Colors

Weddings colors can be determined vice versa. Either the colors can choose the flowers or the flowers can choose the color. Even though I have always been in ah with roses, I have always had a spiritual connection to wildflowers. I love the symbolism behind them and I love seeing them grow and strive in odd locations. I love purple coneflowers, violets, poppy’s, daisys, sideoats grama, queen anne’s lace and daffodils. From these flowers I can pretty much predict that my wedding is going to be a happy and unique, warm and bright yellow. A cutesy, summer wedding with hot weather and cool refreshments.

Theme

Theme’s are all the rage nowadays and your flower selection is the key to it all. From a tropical wedding to country chic, flowers are the determining factor that sets everything apart. If you love rosemallows, orchids, frangipani and jasmine, then I’m pretty sure that elegant, winter wedding is out of the picture!

It’s not a bad thing to let your flowers determine the wedding. The flowers we love are for a reason, and they show off your personality more than you think. If you think about it, it represents the colors you love, the seasons you most enjoy and the themes you prefer. For example, certain flowers grow during specific seasons. I love wildflowers, especially the purple and yellow ones that bloom between August and September. The warm weather mixed with a cool breeze makes me feel happy and safe during that time of year. These flowers portray my favorite months, preferred weather, preferred colors and over all fall wedding theme. Embrace your flower preference, because if you listen, it’ll tell you more about yourself than you may think.