Are you planning a bachelor party for a special groom in your life? Whether you’re a friend or family, if you’ve been charged with this important task, it’s vital that you take it seriously. Coming up with ideas, however, may seem daunting.

While movies and TV shows often depict bachelor parties as crazy, last-night-of-freedom events full of insane stunts, booze, and exotic dancers, that’s not real life. Surprisingly, most grooms don’t actually want an evening like that. In fact, the “one last hurrah!” trend is quickly dying out. More and more bachelor parties are now placing a focus on bonding, excitement, and adventure instead of bad decisions and debauchery.

First, Keep These Party Planning Tips in Mind

If you’re responsible for planning or helping to plan a bachelor party, there are a few things you should keep in mind as you proceed. First and foremost, it’s really important that you respect the groom’s wishes. This is, after all, his big day. If he places boundaries on the activities, stick to them. It’s also absolutely imperative that you keep the safety of your group at the forefront of your planning efforts.

Additionally, you should be conscious of how expensive the party will be, as well as the financial situations of those who will be involved. Don’t plan events that will cost an exorbitant amount if you know some of the other groomsmen or friends can’t afford it. Just because you have the money to spend doesn’t mean everyone else does. Make sure you have a conversation with your fellow party planners and attendees before committing to expensive activities. The goal is to spend time together, not to alienate those who can’t afford to participate fully. If you’re absolutely set on something specific, consider fronting the bill for those who can’t.

So, without further ado, here are several great bachelor party ideas that aren’t a trip to the strip club!

1. Rent a Beach or Mountain House

Does your groom enjoy spending some leisurely time in the sun and sand? Maybe he prefers hiking and exploring the great outdoors? In either case, renting a house for the weekend is a great option and the more people who attend, the lower the price becomes. A weekend away may be exactly what your groom and the rest of the groomsmen need. Of course, you’ll need to plan for some additional activities once you arrive at your weekend destination, but this should become a little easier once you know exactly where you’re going.

2. Play with Weapons

Okay, maybe “play” is the wrong word. Remember what I said about safety? It still applies. Spending time with weapons, however, can be a really good time. There are a wide variety of perfectly safe weapons-driven experiences to choose from. One great option is a trip to a shooting or archery range. Many ranges can be reserved for varying periods of time and will have plenty of gear available for rent. If that’s a little too real, maybe a friendly game of paintball is in order. Laser tag works, too. Depending on your location, you may even be able to find a bar hosting a hatchet throwing tournament. Yes, you read that right: hatchet throwing. Believe it or not, this sport is growing in popularity!

3. Go Sky Diving

Is your groom the adventurous type? If you’re looking for a truly thrilling experience, consider booking a skydiving trip. Marriage means taking a step into a brand new life, so why not celebrate this exciting new journey by experiencing something that most people will never try? This is definitely a time when knowing your crew is important. You’re sure to have a few people who simply aren’t into this idea, so be sure to include alternative options for them while you fall through the sky. Skydiving can also be expensive, so keep this in mind as you begin making training and gear rental reservations.

4. Hit an Arcade

Arcades aren’t just for kids anymore! In fact, there are more and more arcades that specifically cater to adults by offering delicious food and drinks. Spend some time reliving your childhood playing classic arcade games and trying out a few newer ones. You can easily turn the trip into a competition and attempt to beat each other’s high scores. Many arcades also have sections set aside with console games. You may be able to rent the entire facility for the day to hold your own first-person shooter or fighting game tournament.

5. Go Camping

A less expensive alternative to renting a beach or mountain house is camping. Try leaving the hustle and bustle behind for a weekend and rough it instead! Spending time in nature can be an incredible experience when shared with a group of friends. You can enjoy a couple hiking trips, fishing, delicious grilled food, and a couple nights just hanging out around a fire. If you’re really feeling adventurous, planning a backpacking trip could be a lot of fun, too!

6. Stay Home and Relax

If you’re looking for a bachelor party solution that’s cheap and easy, then just plan an epic backyard barbecue weekend! Spend some of that saved cash on steaks, seafood, and drinks you know your groom loves. If you’ve got some yard space, plan to spend time enjoying a few outdoor games and don’t forget a great playlist.

Being in a loving relationship with someone you deeply care about is an incredible thing. Over time, however, some couples experience a period during which their romantic spark fades. For whatever reason, interactions with one another devolve into simply existing. When this happens, it’s important to remember that it doesn’t signal the end of your relationship. Here are several great ways to feed the spark between you and your significant other.

Continue “Dating”

Many couples attach a label to their relationship—dating, engaged, married, etc. Regardless of your title, it’s absolutely essential that the two of you continue “dating.” When a person starts dating someone for the first time, he or she tends to spend significantly more time paying attention to the small things. This is sometimes referred to as a discovery phase, during which the two people simply enjoy learning about one another. New relationships are full of all sorts of discoveries and exciting experiences, so it’s very easy to remain engaged in the moment.

Once couples have spent more time together, however, the excitement sometimes begins to wear off. If you’re worried that you and your significant other are becoming too comfortable, the best solution is to spend some quality time together. It doesn’t have to be anything extravagant; small moments like watching a movie together, going for a hike, playing a board game, or completing a craft project together are enough to help keep your spark alive. The important thing is that the two of you spend time together doing something you both enjoy.

Take Some Alone Time

While spending time together is important, it’s just as vital that you both set aside some time to be alone as well. After all, everyone needs some time to themselves sometimes. Couples in newly-forming relationships are often tempted to spend as much time as possible with each other. This sentiment is understandable, but can cause problems down the road. It’s right to want to learn about your significant other, however, it’s essential that each party has time to recharge in their own way. This is particularly true for introverts, who really need time to themselves occasionally.

Alone time doesn’t have to mean complete separation, which does become especially hard when you live together. Stepping into different rooms to read a book or work on a project is completely acceptable. It’s really best when both of you can find a hobby that allows for some time to settle into your own headspaces. It doesn’t have to be all the time, but every now and then a little time away is definitely warranted.

Keep the Conversation Alive

Here’s something I bet you’ve experienced before: you’re in the middle of an activity with your significant other when a memory is triggered and you begin telling your partner all about it…the only problem is, you’ve already told that story once or twice before! In some cases, your other half may even finish it for you. Unfortunately, after spending so much time together, conversation can become a bit repetitive or stagnant. While this isn’t ideal, the real trouble starts when couples decide it’s just not worth communicating anymore.

Communication is absolutely essential to a successful relationship. Without it, there’s really no reason to remain together. The best way to ensure you and your significant other don’t lose this aspect of your relationship is to take time to experience new things. This can be together or separate, and it doesn’t require much. Keeping the conversation fresh can be as easy as reading about or watching current events, picking up a new book, trying out something new, or catching up with old friends. Anything can ultimately help you strike up a conversation.

Another option is to find new things to experience together. This may mean dedicating time to a television show neither of you have seen before, trying out a new hobby, or having a mini book club together. Trying new things will absolutely give the two of you something to talk about.

Remember Why You’re Together

The best way to keep the spark alive is to remember why the two of you decided to be together in the first place. Above all, this is the most important aspect of remaining close. Never stop reflecting on the beginning days of your relationship: how you met, what the two of you were wearing, who spoke first, and what was said? These little details are precious and they’re what make your relationship unique.

It’s easy enough to appreciate your significant other on big holidays, anniversaries, and birthdays, but you need those feelings all year long. Reminiscing about your first date, a favorite vacation, or your wedding can help fill the space between when things are hectic, stressful, and ordinary. Taking a little time to appreciate your relationship can go a really long way, especially if it makes you smile or laugh together.

Are you worried your relationship is losing its spark? First off, don’t worry; this is a common problem that many couples face at some point during their relationship. Has the “How was your day?” conversation over dinner become the only time you really sit down and talk with each other? Maybe you’ve found yourselves spending time on your phones rather than actively engaging in conversation? Or has the time you spend together in the bedroom gone from hot and frequent to cold or barely non-existent?

These examples are unfortunate, but not uncommon. In fact, couples who have been together for a long time often go through a period of time during which they feel their romantic spark is fading. This can be a result of a number of issues, including not spending enough time together, work and life stresses, or just becoming too comfortable with each other. It’s true that relationships take work and dedication, but the spark between two people is about having fun with one another.

The best way to get the fire roaring again is by spending intentional and meaningful time together. Keep these inexpensive date night ideas in mind for when you and your sweetheart need some spark-worthy quality time together.

1. Fireside Fun

Who doesn’t love a night out under the stars while cuddled up close to a fire’s warmth? Grab some supplies for s’mores or even just a blanket and a couple of beverages. Fires have an uncanny ability to get people to open up and talk. Enjoy this peaceful time for reflection with your loved one and don’t forget to look at the stars!

(Obviously, this one is a bit tough if you don’t have an accessible fire pit, but it isn’t impossible! Check with your local parks or beaches about their policies on fires. Some will give you a permit to build a fire after taking a quick fire safety course. Taking a quick, weekend camping trip is also an option.)

2. Dress Up and Go Out

Most people aren’t afraid of dressing up, but refrain unless there’s a special occasion. In this case, however, the special occasion is the two of you! While you can certainly visit your favorite fancy restaurant, getting dressed up and going out doesn’t have to mean you’re spending a lot of money. Consider dressing up with your honey and heading out on the town to some entirely average places to stay in your budget. The two of you may get a few looks when you show up to the local ice-cream parlor, burger joint, or movie theater in your finest clothing–but who cares!?

3. Head to the Arcades

Who really wants to grow up? For those couples who have gotten just a little too good at “adulting,” hitting up the arcade for an evening of childish fun is a great option. Most arcades have a variety of games, so it’s likely you can both find a game or two that bring back some childhood memories. Look for games to play with each other, like skee-ball, basketball, or even air hockey. If you two have a competitive spirit, consider making the night into a game as well—whoever scores the least points or earns fewer tickets has to buy dinner or the next round of drinks!

4. Volunteer Together

Sometimes, seeing how other people live can open your eyes to the gifts you and your loved one have. Consider finding a local charity and volunteer time together. Food banks, food kitchens, animal shelters, or even retirement and convalescent homes are filled with people who could really use your help. While you’re there doing charitable deeds for your community, you may even meet a person or two with a helpful story to tell. You never know who might have the perfect piece of relationship advice you’ve needed.

5. Stay in and Get Naked

Yes, you read that correctly! As date nights go, they don’t get much more inexpensive than this! The spark in a relationship comes from a place that is both emotional and physical. You need to work on both aspects in order to really make changes in your relationship.

So what does a naked night at home entail? It may seem counterintuitive, but your evening should have only one rule: try not to get physical with each other until the end of the night! The goal is to build anticipation—not jump right to it. That means you should plan some activities that you’ll both enjoy. To help ease into the concept, pick a board game or find a pack of playing cards. Whoever loses each round has to lose a piece of clothing. Then try out a new recipe to make together (remember to throw an apron on if you’re doing any frying!). You can end the evening by throwing on a new television series or a movie to watch together, snuggled up nice and close.

While it may seem like your relationship is heading down the drain, you really shouldn’t jump to that conclusion. The fortunate news is that this problem is fixable. It will just require some intentional time working to rekindle the spark you and your significant other had before. The two of you became a couple for a reason; all you have to do it find and fan the flame again.

Once the vows are exchanged, the toasts have been made, and the dancing ended, only one question remains: “What do I do with my wedding dress?” While men may wear a tuxedo or suit again for a formal occasion, opportunities to wear a wedding dress are a little less likely. Many brides decide that preserving their dress is the best option. This results in a nice memorabilia item, but also keeps the item safe for future generations to look at and wear. This process does, however, require some storage space and can be a little expensive, especially immediately after paying for a wedding.

Preserving your wedding dress isn’t the only option, however. A trend among modern brides is to “trash the dress.” If you’re not a fan of the preservation idea, trashing it may be the perfect solution. Here’s the answers to a few questions you may have about trashing the wedding dress.

What Is Trashing the Dress?

Hiring a photographer for your ceremony and reception is nothing new. In fact, it’s likely you’ve already been making big plans for your pre-wedding photo shoot. Trashing your dress will require yet another photo session, however. This trend entails wearing your wedding dress one more time but, instead of walking down the aisle, you’ll take part in a dramatic (and potentially messy) photo shoot with your hubby.

Why are couples taking part in this? For most, it’s a way to finally let loose and relax after months of strenuous planning and organization. It’s akin to a second celebration, commemorating surviving the entire wedding process. Of course, every bride approaches this concept a little differently, but the end result is always the same. You’ll have a huge assortment of fun photos to share and display around your home.

Where Did the Trend Originate?

The trash the dress trend originated in Las Vegas. John Michael Cooper, a professional photographer, is considered the first person to stage a trash the dress photo session. His reason? Well, he’d become a little bored with traditional wedding photos and wanted to spice things up! Cooper’s goal was to capture brides in unusual and less pristine settings, like playing in the mud, falling into the ocean, or jumping into a lake.

What Should I Include in My Shoot?

The amazing thing about the trash the dress trend is that you can literally do anything you want. The best place to begin looking for ideas is online. Spend some time researching what other brides have done in the past. Pinterest is a great place to start, but take a look at photographer portfolios or company websites for pictures as well. You can even find some exciting footage of trash the dress sessions created by videographers who are taking part in the trend.

The most important thing is that you have fun with the process. Plan something that you know you’re going to enjoy, as the entire goal is to let loose and have fun! While the options are absolutely endless, here are some photo ideas and activities to help get you in the trash the dress spirit:

• Kissing underwater
• Standing in the waves
• Laying on the beach
• Relaxing in a hot spring
• Parasailing
• Playing in a fountain
• Standing under a waterfall
• Jumping into a lake
• Hiking
• Participating in a color run
• Having a mud or food fight
• Four-wheeling
• Jumping into a pile of leaves
• Paddleboarding

Isn’t the Dress Ruined Afterward?

Some brides really dislike the concept of mistreating their beautiful—and often very expensive—wedding gown for a few unique photos. The truth is, though, that a trash the dress photo shoot doesn’t have to ruin the dress. While many women ultimately choose an activity that does indeed “trash” the dress, it isn’t a requirement. If this is something you’re interested in doing, it’s important to realize that you set the boundaries. Your photographer will be happy to create a shoot that suits both you and your dress.

How Expensive Is It?

The cost of a trash the dress photo session varies a lot. As a general rule, however, you can expect the price to increase with the number of scenes you want to shoot. Location and the time dedicated to taking the pictures are also factors. If you’re concerned about your budget, you can always opt to work with a less experienced photographer. Many photographers who are just starting out have the skills necessary to conduct the shoot, but charge less because their goal is expanding their portfolio. Do keep in mind, however, that the cost of the dress itself should also be a factor. Only you can decide how much is too much to spend.

Let’s talk about your fiancé’s bachelor party. Many women get pretty worked up over this topic but, let me assure you, The Hangover is just a movie—a funny, over-the-top, crazy movie that has very little founding in reality. That’s not to say that some bachelor parties don’t get a little rowdy. Most bachelor parties, however, are actually pretty tame. (Besides, the bachelor was missing from the worst parts of that movie, anyway!) In all seriousness, here are several great reasons why you really shouldn’t be worried about your soon-to-be husband’s upcoming bachelor party.

You Trust Him Enough to Marry Him

Let’s get the roughest and toughest question out of the way first. You know the one; it’s been floating around in the back of your head since he first mentioned that his buddies had something special planned. The question you’re fixating on, but can’t bear to ask aloud is, “Will my fiancé cheat on me?” You can find your answer to that question by asking yourself a much more important one: “Do I trust him?”

If you’re marrying the man, the assumption is that he does have your trust. After all, trust is a foundation of all healthy relationships. You’ve gone through a lot together already and, at some point, you decided there’s no one else more reliable or better suited to lean on. Don’t let those feelings fly out the window just because he’s having a bachelor party. Above all else, remember that he’s out to make memories, not regrets.

It’s Mostly about Spending Time with Friends and Family

Most guys just want to get together and have a good time. That can entail anything from playing video games and scarfing pizza to golfing or camping. It depends greatly on how your fiancé enjoys spending his time. After all, his buddies want to make plans that he’s going to enjoy. Further, many bachelors like to include family members in their big night as well. That means it’s probable your fiancé’s father may be present for some or all of the festivities. If this is the case, it’s highly unlikely for things to get too far out of hand.

Bachelor Parties Are Traditional

Weddings are full of tradition and bachelor parties, as well as bachelorette parties, are very much part of that. People have been having bachelor parties since the 5^th century B.C. Yes, you read that right; they actually started in the time of Spartans. When a Spartan was to be married, the other soldiers hosted a dinner in his honor and took turns toasting to his future. Wild, right?

They are also often considered a rite of passage. Even if things do get a little out of hand, current perception designates a bachelor party as one last hurrah before married life. That means that even the least appealing aspects of the night aren’t going to become part of your fiancé’s lifestyle in the future.

He Should Be Aware of Your Concerns

At the end of the day, it’s important that you talk to your fiancé about any worries you have about his bachelor party ahead of time. As someone committed to marrying you, he’s not going to want to make you uncomfortable. In fact, it’s probably the opposite! He wants to be the source of joy in your life and not anxiety. If he knows you’re particularly anxious about a certain aspect, he can address himself why you have no need to worry. That also gives him the opportunity to give his friends an “off limits” list.

Talking openly also provides the perfect chance for him to address any of his worries over your bachelorette party. You may not be the only one getting worked up over the concept. In fact, many couples find the whole idea unappealing and instead opt to have an evening spent together with friends. The only way to know what he wants is to talk with him openly about it.

Let’s face it: no matter how much preparation goes into a wedding, there is always room for the occasional disaster. When you mix assorted family and friends (some of whom probably don’t get along well in the first place) with too much (or too little) alcohol, you’re bound to run into a few people issues. It’s not just your guests who may be causing a ruckus, however. There are plenty of other problems that can pop up, including issues with food and beverage orders, an inappropriately chatty amateur DJ, or a melted cake.

The point is, anything can happen on your wedding day. In fact, the potential for disaster will follow you around for days leading up to your ceremony and reception. The secret trick is to prepare for as many potential problems as possible before they strike. You can do this by creating a wedding disaster survival kit.

While carrying around a duffle bag stuffed full of emergency solutions probably isn’t a workable plan, there are a few key items you can easily pack into a small bag or purse. These items may not be able to fix a melting cake, but they will absolutely help mitigate some of the smaller disasters you may run into.

• Baby powder – This moisture absorbing powder is perfect for combating sweat caused by hot days, jittery nerves, or a drunken best-man speech that won’t end.
• Detergent pen – These are great! Have one handy to help save those fancy garments from stains.
• Hand sanitizer – You’re bound to be greeting people left and right. Help keep everyone in attendance healthy with clean, germ-free hands.
• Toothpicks or dental floss – Avoid looking like you’ve got a garden in your teeth by keeping some toothpicks around. Floss is a great alternative and may even come in handy in other ways as well.
• Small snacks – Having granola bars, pretzels, or other easy snacks on hand can help combat a growling stomach between meals.
• Feminine products – Never leave home without a few, just in case!
• Tissues – Keep a small pack of these on hand in case you or someone nearby gets a bit emotional.

• Lighter – For lighting candles or cigarettes, and even to help seal thread pulls in clothing. Just be careful!
• Antacid – With all the tasty treats and appetizers, having some of these will save you and others from potential heart burn.
• Pain killers – Obviously, this will be helpful for everything from a headache to a sprained ankle.
• Allergy medication – Outdoor weddings inherently have allergy risks, but also keep some handy in case you or someone else runs into a minor food allergy during cocktail hour.
• Breath fresheners – Keep some mints, gum, or mouthwash handy so you and those around you can survive a day spent together in close quarters.
• Multi-tool – These are available in a wide variety of brands, sizes, and tool sets. Consider finding one for cosmetics as well. There’s no doubt that having a pocket-sized toolkit on hand will help to solve quite a few disasters.
• Small sewing kit – Rips and tears can happen at the worst times. Have a sewing kit handy for a quick stitch solution to surprise wardrobe malfunctions.

• Safety pins – If sewing isn’t for you, safety pins provide an easier alternative.
• Super glue – This stuff will keep just about anything together. Just be careful not to get any on your fingers!
• Liquor – When all else fails, it can’t hurt to have a little bit of liquor handy for pre-cocktail hour disasters. Make sure to follow all alcohol regulations set forth by the venue, however.
• Bandages – Small cuts and scrapes can happen at any time. If these are too unsightly, consider including a small bottle of liquid bandage instead.
• Bobby pins – Bring some black and brown ones for those flyaway hairs, especially if any part of the wedding or reception is outdoors.
• Pocket mirror – It can’t hurt to keep one of these handy.

• Clear medical tape – Perfect for combating blisters from uncomfortable shoes or discreet wardrobe fixes when hems come loose.
• Clear nail polish – Ideal for a quick nail touch-up or to stop a run in someone’s pantyhose.
• Straws – Makes drinking without ruining your lipstick a breeze!
• Batteries – Extra AA or AAA batteries are always welcome to help prevent dead devices.
• Fake wedding ring – In case the actual ring gets lost, your stand-in will save the day!

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, so it makes sense that you will want your closest family and friends present to celebrate with you. If you’ve lost someone close to you, the pain of missing them on your wedding day may be hard to handle.

Just because these people are gone doesn’t mean they can’t be part of your wedding. There are a number of special ways to include lost loved ones into your wedding day. Recent deaths especially may carry powerful emotions of sadness and loss, so it’s important to keep that in mind when choosing how you will honor them. For some, this means a simple, intimate reminder no one else is privy to, while others prefer incorporating a larger display of love. While planning your wedding day, consider these five tributes to deceased loved ones.

1. Let the Officiant Say Some Words

This is one of the more traditional ways of honoring loved ones who have passed. Your wedding officiant will have the attention of everyone gathered for your ceremony, so they are the perfect vessel for a few kind words or a poignant moment of silence. If you have a list of family members you wish to remember, make sure to provide your officiant with all their names and correct pronunciations. Alternatively, you may choose to find a poem or religious text that conveys your feelings and have your officiant or another loved one read it aloud.

2. Wear or Use Something of Theirs

Our loved ones often leave behind a variety of items that remind us of their influence on our lives. Don’t be afraid to get creative with how you utilize them on the day of your wedding. In some cases, you may have inherited a piece of jewelry or a small trinket that you can include with your wedding attire. Apart from their normal use, rings can be worn on a bracelet or necklace. It’s also extremely easy to attach other jewelry items to bouquets or boutonnieres. If you have a special article of clothing that reminds you of your lost loved one, consider keeping it close by. You may also want to sew a piece of that article into the inside of your dress or shirt. This allows you to keep their memory near and dear all day long.

3. Incorporate a Photo Collage at Your Guestbook Table

The guestbook is designed to be a collection of signatures and well wishes from all your family and friends in attendance. What better place to keep tokens of remembrance for those who can’t be there in person? Create one or more photo collages to display on the table alongside the guestbook; everyone who signs your book can take a moment to remember the deceased in their own way. If you’re looking for a way to honor your missing loved ones without drawing a lot of attention, this is certainly an ideal option. It’s especially touching if you have several loved ones from both sides of the family you wish to remember. If you’re technically savvy, you can create a slideshow or memorial video to play on loop nearby. Consider including some family videos, pictures, and touching music. It doesn’t take much to create a touching display of affection for those you miss the most on your special day.

4. Play a Special Song

If there is a song that reminds you of the deceased, then include them in your wedding ceremony or reception. Music is everywhere during a wedding, so there are plenty of opportunities. When choosing songs for the various first dances during the reception, consider including a dance dedicated specifically to the deceased. You can then invite all of the family and friends of your missing loved one onto the dance floor for a celebration of their life.

5. Save Them a Seat

You typically pay by the plate for your guests, not by the seat. Consult with your venue first, but it’s likely you will be able to secure one or more extra chairs specifically for the purpose of honoring loved ones who have passed. Save them a seat at a table, or even give a group of missing family and friends one of their own. You may also want to place a meaningful item nearby; a favorite clothing item, hat, or even a flower can serve as a touching reminder that, even though your loved one isn’t physically there, their presence is felt.

When it comes to weddings, proper planning is absolutely necessary. Ensuring that every single detail is perfect for your special day is hard work and takes a lot of time. The effort you put into the process, however, definitely pays off in the end.

Your wedding day isn’t the only thing that requires planning, though. While it’s easy to get wrapped up in selecting invitations, attire, flowers, decorations, food, and drinks, don’t make the mistake that so many couples make—forgetting to plan the honeymoon. This task isn’t quite as arduous as wedding planning, but it still warrants a significant amount of your time and attention. This is, after all, a chance for you and your future spouse to create an absolutely unforgettable adventure to share and remember for a lifetime. As you begin planning your honeymoon, keep the following tips in mind.

Start Honeymoon Planning Early

When planning a trip with heavy travel, it’s important to begin planning and make arrangements early. The earlier you book your flight and hotel, the more likely it is that you can secure a cheaper price. Having an established date also allows you plenty of time to ask off from work or find sitters for your children or pets.

Establish a Budget

As a newly married couple, finances can be tight. That’s why it’s so important to carefully consider and establish a budget for your honeymoon. The cost of airfare and lodging are only a couple of the expenses you’ll need to include in your honeymoon budget. There are a variety of smaller charges that you should keep in mind as well, as these will surely add up quickly. If you know you’ll be heading out to restaurants to eat often, make sure you also anticipate paying gratuity and travel expenses. Love shopping? Don’t forget to include that in your budget too. Souvenirs can get pricey, especially if you don’t set a limit. If your honeymoon package doesn’t include drinks, make sure to dedicate a generous portion of your budget to that. After everything is accounted for, also include an extra amount for miscellaneous expenses, just in case you find something else.

Do Your Research

Don’t rely solely on travel website information when choosing a destination. There are a variety of sites out there that provide reviews on places they themselves have never actually been to! Use a variety of sites to help you decide. Keep social media outlets like Instagram in mind, since people will often post pictures of locations they’ve visited. This can help you get some real insight from others who have actually been there. Alternatively, share your potential destinations with your family and friends. They may be able to provide some input as well.

Pack the Necessities

Before your trip, make a list of all the things you will need on your honeymoon. This will help ensure you don’t forget anything. The cost of most essentials like deodorants, toothpaste, and even sunscreen can be astronomically higher at resort locations. Additionally, bring along an extra bag to bring back with you; this will ensure you have enough space for all the items you pick up along the way.

Have Activities Planned

The best idea for your honeymoon is to set up a list of things you would like to accomplish and then sort them by importance. While you may be tempted to leave your activity choices up to last minute decisions, it’s possible you’ll actually miss out on what you wanted to do most. The best course of action is to determine your hot ticket items and then fill in the rest as needed. Knowing your rough schedule will also allow you to plan your budget more accurately.

Designate a Rest Day

Keeping your trip full of excitement and adventure is great, but make sure you set aside some time to rest as well. Whether you need to recover from a long day of travel or just need to relax after a day filled with lots of physical activities, resting is important. Packing every minute of your trip with an activity can lead to burn out, which would likely mean something gets cut from the agenda anyway. Spend some time together relaxing by the pool, schedule a couples’ massage, or just read a book back in your room. Seriously, you’ll appreciate the small break from all the action.

Remember What Your Trip is About

While your honeymoon is bound to be filled with all sorts of exciting things, don’t forget what the trip is about. It’s about you and your significant other spending time together as a married couple. Make sure you do things together and spend time showing each other how much you care. Consider planning a little something special for your spouse that he or she isn’t aware of. After this trip is over, work and “real” life can sometimes get in your way, so take advantage of the temporary seclusion you two have and really enjoy each other.

Are you planning to include a father/daughter dance during your wedding reception? This tradition is both beautiful and touching. Just like the mother/son dance, it’s an opportunity for the bride to have a moment in the spotlight with her father, who has played a very important role in her life. Typically, these moments are tear-jerkers, the songs filled with lyrics describing the sweet love between a father and his daughter. This slow, inching toward sad, music isn’t for everyone, however.

If you and your father are the type that like to shake things up a little, your father/daughter song selection is the perfect way to do it. Instead of opting for a slower song, go for something upbeat and fun. In fact, while you’re at it, consider throwing in some simple choreography to really show off your quirks! Consider these exciting and upbeat songs for the father/daughter dance at your wedding.

“100 Years” by Five for Fighting

If you’re looking for a song from the perspective of a father who has seen a bit in his life, but will always consider you his little girl, then this is the one for you. Five for Fighting captures a love that spans a lifetime with this beautiful chorus:

“And I’m just dreaming,

Counting the ways to where you are.

Fifteen there’s still time for you.

Twenty-two I feel her too.

Thirty three you’re on your way.

Every day’s a new day.”

“Cinderella” by Steven Curtis Chapman

Looking for a song about a father watching as his baby girl grows into a woman ready to get married? Look no further! “Cinderella” tells a story from a father’s perspective as he watches his little girl growing up. It even includes a segment where she asks him to help her practice dancing for her wedding! A truly beautiful song, it also has a steady rhythm which would allow for some fancy footwork.

“But she came home today with a ring on her hand,

Just glowing and telling us all they had planned.

She says, “Dad, the wedding’s still six months away

But I need to practice my dancin’.”

“You’ve Got a Friend in Me” by Michael Bublé

Everyone has heard “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” at one time or another, but likely never at a wedding. But why not? In actuality, this song by is perfect for a father/daughter dance, especially for a pair who likes to have a little fun. The lyrics can easily be interpreted as describing the love of a father and daughter. After all, who’s a better friend than your father?

“Now, some other boys might be little bit smarter than I am,

Are bigger and stronger too,

Maybe, but none of them,

Will ever love you the way I do.”

“Isn’t She Lovely” by Stevie Wonder

This Stevie Wonder classic will have your guests enraptured the moment it starts playing. Just about every line is perfect for that father who simply adores his daughter and sees her above all others. Additionally, the rhythm in this song lends itself very nicely to some fun dance moves that will keep you and your father moving all over the dance floor.

“Isn’t she pretty, truly the angel’s best?

Boy, I’m so happy,

We have been heaven blessed.

I can’t believe what God has done.

Through us he’s given life to one,

But isn’t she lovely made from love?”

“Sweet Child of Mine” by Guns and Roses

Love Guns and Roses? The consider kicking your reception off the right way with their song, “Sweet Child of Mine.” The title says it all! This number has a great rock beat and joyful feeling, as well as lyrics that are simple and loving.

“She’s got eyes of the bluest skies,

As if they thought of rain.

I hate to look into those eyes,

And see an ounce of pain.”

“American Girl” by Tom Petty

If your father loves classic rock, then Tom Petty has the perfect song for your wedding. “American Girl” captures the essence of a daughter who always knew she was meant for great things out in the world.

“Well she was an American girl,

Raised on promises.

She couldn’t help thinkin’,

That there was a little more to life somewhere else.”

“You’re My Best Friend” by Queen

Another great song for a best friend father/daughter duo, Queen delivers an upbeat tune that begs for some dancing. This one will be a guest favorite for sure.

“Ooh you’re the best friend that I ever had.

I’ve been with you such a long time.

You’re my sunshine and I want you to know,

That my feelings are true.”

“Dance Like Yo Daddy” by Meghan Trainor

Looking for a song that’s perfect for a particularly silly father/daughter pair? Meghan Trainor hits the mark with “Dance Like Yo Daddy.” This song talks all about how dads dance… well, a bit strange. If your dad is goofy, then he’ll love showing off his dance moves with you to this song.

“My daddy told me how to do my own thing.

He said to let it out, long as you find your groove.

Go ahead and find your groove.

Make sure you stand out in the crowd and show them all what you can do.”

“The Time (Dirty Bit) by Black Eyed Peas

The Black Eyed Peas took a spin on an old classic, which most of your guests will recognize from the movie Dirty Dancing. It’s got the same lyrics, but Black Eyed Peas added some great dance elements. This song is another upbeat spectacle song, so make sure you whip up some fun choreography.

“I had the time of my life,

And I’ve never felt this way before.

And I swear this is true,

And I owe it all to you!”

“Born to Be Wild” by Steppenwolf

If fun is your goal, check out this Steppenwolf classic. Everyone knows it, and you’re likely to have your guests clamoring to get on the dance floor with you. The hook has nice lyrics that lend themselves to a father’s wish for his daughter’s life.

“Yeah darlin’ go make it happen,

Take the world in a love embrace.

Fire all of your guns at once,

And explode into space.”

One of the most exciting parts of getting married is the awesome vacation that follows—the honeymoon! Honeymoons aren’t like just any old vacation, however. The average honeymoon holds expectations of limitless excitement, fascinating adventure, and unparalleled romance. Additionally, this will be the first time that you and your significant other are out in the world as a married couple. Whether you choose to plan your entire trip yourself or hire a travel agent, make sure you avoid the following activities to ensure you have the best honeymoon possible!

Inviting Social Media

If you’re a social media person, this could be a tough one. Whether your Facebook “needs” wedding photos posted, your Instagram is begging for story updates, and your Twitter feed is dying to know what you’re thinking, all these apps will still be there when you return. The average honeymoon lasts between seven and ten days, and you typically lose at least two of them to travel. Spending time staring into your phone or computer is a complete and utter waste of your vacation.

You don’t have to eliminate phone use entirely during your special getaway, however. There are a variety of great reasons to have your smart phone handy while you and your spouse experience the many wonders your honeymoon has in store. Instead of hanging around on social media, however, use your phone to ask Google about a foreign word you don’t know, to capture pictures of the beautiful moments of your trip, or to check for neat activities in your area. Just remember, your trip won’t last forever; spend your time living in the moment instead of looking for things to brag about online. Wait until after you’ve returned to update your status and post all of your fantastic pictures.

Taking Unnecessary Risks

Adventure is fun, but too much can be dangerous. Even if you and your spouse are huge adrenaline junkies, remember your limits. Hitting the surf in unknown waters, skiing down steep mountainsides, or even renting all-terrain vehicles for the first time can all be very exciting, but spending the rest of your trip in a local hospital is not. If you wouldn’t do it at home, then there’s a good chance you shouldn’t attempt it while you’re on your honeymoon. Take time to do the things that you both love, but remember to also be mindful of your safety and the safety of those around you.

Forgetting About Allergies

When you’re in an area that’s new to you, it’s easy to get swept away in the excitement. You may be more likely to book that couples massage you’ve both always wanted, order an exciting looking dish you never thought you’d try, or sign up for a crazy, adventure through the wilds of a jungle you’ve never heard of. Go for it! Do all the things that test your boundaries—just make sure that you don’t forget about your allergies along the way. There are loads of honeymoon horror stories about couples who forget to check the massage oil’s base or didn’t check for nuts in their dessert. Always remain alert when you’re in an area that isn’t familiar to you, especially ones where the locals speak a different language.

If you do have an allergic reaction on your trip, make sure you can get the help you need as quickly as possible. Remember to pack an emergency EpiPen or medication you may need, as well as over the counter allergy solutions for minor reactions. Not every allergic reaction is life threatening, but leaving them unresolved is a great way to ruin part of your honeymoon.

Staying in Your Comfort Zone

While safety is extremely important, you also shouldn’t spend your entire trip hiding out in your comfort zone. Every long trip warrants a day or two filled with nothing but rest and relaxation, but your honeymoon should include more. This is especially the case if you are visiting a location the two of you have never been to before. Make sure you spend at least some time exploring what the area has to offer, like trying local cuisine or taking a hike on a nearby trail. Even if you leave your comfort zones for a single adventure, the two of you are bound to have some amazing memories to cherish together forever!

Eating Too Much

Regardless of where you choose to have your honeymoon, it is certain that you will find delicious food. Food is the one language that everyone in the world speaks! As a result, it’s very easy to over indulge in all the delightful dishes, especially if you spend your time at an all-inclusive resort. You’re on vacation, after all, so why not live it up a little?

While this mentality is fine to an extent, there are limits. If you gorge yourself too much, you’re likely to feel some rather negative effects afterward. No one wants to spend part of their honeymoon holed up in their room groaning and moaning because of their stomach. Yes, you’re on the vacation of a lifetime, but make sure to keep your regular eating habits in mind too.