Hot and Not

In case you haven’t noticed, weddings have become an extremely important part of our society. I mean they always have been, but now it’s all about who can have the most creative wedding, how many DIY decorations you can have, and for a very small minority of people, how much money is spent on their wedding. Did you know that the average wedding in today’s society costs over $25,000? Crazy right?!? 

Even though many weddings are super expensive, a number of brides are looking for any way possible to save money. Most of the time, decorations are the first thing to go. Instead of gorgeous DIY decorations such as mason jar flower vases or window pane placement settings, some brides are cutting corners to an extreme! Now ladies, there are some decorations that are just too tacky and cheap to be used in a wedding. For those of you who disagree with me, I apologize, but I feel like some decorations should be used for showers, birthdays, and other various parties and not weddings! 

For instance, keep balloons and streamers away from the ceremony and reception site. Some balloon arrangements can be made in an elegant and tasteful manner, but most of the time, that is not what brides use. Take a look at some of the decorations that are a “not” and how they can be replaced with something “hot”.

The first "Not" decoration we have are balloons. Now, like I said before, they have the potential to look really elegant if done right. However, this is an example of the type of balloon decoration that you should stay away from. 

{Source}

As you can see, these balloon arrangements are extremely tacky looking. This is not something that should ever be at a wedding. You can easily find giant size round balloons that are much more tasteful and appropriate. Like the ones shown below.

{Source}

The next decoration in the "Not" category are streamers. Streamers are perfect for a birthday party or a baby shower, but have no place in a wedding. 

{Source}

Now these streamers can be easily replaced with a new trend that is also very inexpensive. Ripped fabric has recently taken over for DIY and vintage weddings and you can see why. All you wold have to do is go to your local arts and crafts store and pick out 3 or 4 different fabrics that you like. Cut or rip them into shapes and hang them where you would like. 

{Source}

The final "Not" I have today is the abusing the use of lights. I love lights as wedding decorations, but sometimes people tend to go overboard. Simple lights complement any wedding decorations, but if you overuse them it will turn into a hot mess.

{Source}

If you are looking to do something more unique, yet still beautiful a great idea is to use is mason jars or hanging lanterns.

{Source}

So the moral of the story is to be careful when choosing decorations for your wedding. Most of the "Nots" and turn into "Hots" with a little planning and a lot of creativity.

Vintage Is The New Black!

Vintage is alive and kicking when it comes to weddings these days. Why? Well, my theory is that the economic hardships that many people are experiencing are causing them to really buckle down on their wedding expenses. Before, brides were buying or renting everything full price, but now that many have to watch their costs, they are beginning to incorporate more do it yourself (DIY) projects. Many times, DIY and vintage go hand in hand. For instance, it is easy and inexpensive for a bride to go antiquing to find her wedding decor. She may search for old windows and doors that can be painted and used as reception decor. Also, another popular item to find and use as a unique wedding decoration, is a birdcage.

Vintage has also made a comeback with wedding dresses. Elements of lace, slimmer silhouettes, shorter trains and bird cage veils are all popular amongst brides. Having a vintage-themed wedding allows the couple to be individual and creative because there are a number of different vintage eras that can be chosen. The most popular styles that we are seeing are from the Romantic eras because of the elegance and class. Brides are also very into the retro style from the 1940's and 1950's. Many times, these retro brides wear a tea length wedding dress with red lips and a bird cage veil. Vintage conveys fond memories of the past and a little piece of history to every wedding, no matter what the time period. It is perfect for those couples who want to integrate their personalities and their history into their wedding day. Plus, your vintage details will be sure to awe the guests and make your special day memorable. 

 Here are some examples of vintage weddings

{Source}

The picture above is a vintage bride with a tea length dress on. You can see the lace sleeves, detailing of the veil and the pearl necklace also add to the vintage flair.

{Source}

Here we can see that an old suitcase that can be found very easily at a thrift or antique store, has been turned into the card area. The table runner in the suitcase and the table cloth both have a vintage feel and the flowers really bring the look together.

{Source}

This is the classic vintage wedding gown look for many brides. The bride has a smile off-white dress, which was very popular in the 1940s and 1950s, as well as a mid-length veil. Each bridesmaid has an earthy tone, which is also an element of vintage. The bride looks similar to a Grace Kelly or Audrey Hepburn bride.

{Source}

This bride is wearing the typical bird cage veil. Many times, bird cage veils come with some small detailing like the white flower and leaf in this particular picture. Feathers are also a common detail on these veils. The bride, as you can see, has very minimal eye makeup on; however, her red lips really make her face pop.

{Source}

  A table center piece common use for a vintage bird cage. You can use a variety of cages to make each table unique. Also, instead of using flowers, the bird cages can be filled with candles or pictures of the couple. They can also be used as a place to put cards.

{Source}

The fabric strips in the background have been a growing trend for weddings. They are great as a background for the ceremony, a picture area or for the cake table (like this picture).The mismatch candle holder and vase are great details, along with the antique tray and lace table runner. They are all perfect for a romantic period wedding. 

{Source}

This reception table is great because of the small details. First, the mismatched chairs are really fun and really bring the entire setting together. The small details such as the candler holders, small suitcase, vintage cameras and flowers will keep your guests interested all day long.

{Source}

This DIY chandelier is great for elegant garden weddings. It is very inexpensive to make and they add a nice rustic, yet classic touch to the decor.

{Source}

This is by far one of my favorite pieces I've seen. The frame can be found at a second hand store. A small bulletin board can be covered with fabric and then attached to the frame. They keys are a perfect wedding favor and table placement.

{Source}

Here is an example of some great vintage rustic wedding invitations. it is important for the invitations to match the overall style of the wedding and I think these would work well with a rustic wedding.

{Source}

Here is another example of a DIY project that is easy to make. All you have to do is connect some chicken wire to on old window frame. The wooden letters can be found in stores such as Micheal's or Walmart and can be painted to go with the wedding theme.

{Source}

This last picture is an example of a vintage save the date. The graphic is simple enough that it won't be expensive to print; however, the style of it will make guests curious about what the wedding will look like.