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.

When people think destination weddings, typically they look for tropical islands or a European locale. While these destinations certainly offer beautiful views and unique cultural experiences, they also come with hefty price tags. If you are looking to make your destination wedding one that guests will remember for more than the arm and a leg it cost them, then look no further than right here in the United States. Gorgeous beaches, expansive desert vistas, snow-covered winter wonderlands, and everything in between can be found without ever leaving the country.

There is a lot to be said for keeping your wedding within the United States. One of the most important reasons is, of course, the drastic difference in travel cost. Depending on how far away you are from your chosen location, travel to and from the destination can be exceedingly expensive for both you and your guests. Another plus to keeping your wedding domestic, however, is that your guests won’t have to worry about securing a passport. There is a wide assortment of exciting places to visit in the States, some of which you’re certainly familiar with (Las Vegas or New York City) and others that you may have never considered before. When choosing where you’d like your special day to be held, keep the following lesser-known—but still amazing—locations in mind.

Arizona

If you’re looking for a wedding destination that embraces the natural beauty of mountains and deserts, then Arizona should be at the top of your destination wedding list. There are a plethora of national parks and historic landmarks for you and your guests to enjoy while you’re visiting the area. You’ll find a nice variety of wedding venues that range in price and extravagance from Phoenix to Scottsdale and everywhere inbetween. If you’re looking for views that really leave an impression, consider heading to the Grand Canyon. There are also several amazing historic sites and some of the best views you will ever see. After an unforgettable wedding ceremony, everyone can experience incredible hiking and exploring through mountain expanses that stretch as far as the eye can see.

North Carolina

The state of North Carolina has something for everyone. It boasts both beautiful mountainsides and a gorgeous coastline, so you can have your pick of venues based on your personal preferences. Love horses? You can find wild ones roaming on the beaches in the Outer Banks. Love history? Greensboro is home to a variety of historic locations and plenty of fun activities. Or, head to Asheville for some food and brewery adventures in their downtown area. Beautiful indoor and outdoor wedding venues are in ample supply in North Carolina, so do some adventuring to find a location that you and your soon-to-be spouse will love and remember forever.

Colorado

Colorado is home to some of the most beautiful forests and mountainsides, along with some of the most intense sporting opportunities. Do you and your fiancé love to ski? Aspen is well known for having some of the best ski slopes in the country, making it an ideal location for a winter destination wedding. The fun doesn’t stop there, however! Colorado is perfect for people who like more intense activities like white-water rafting. Consider a destination wedding in Vail during the summertime for excellent white water rafting opportunities. There are also countless places to hike, mountain bike, and simply enjoy the great outdoors. Alternatively, you can head to the Denver area to visit some amazing museums and enjoy various modern industrial venues. You and your guests are sure to enjoy experiencing the unique culture and art at some of the best galleries and museums in the country.

Tennessee

If you’re looking for a location that has music written all over it, then Memphis, Tennessee, is the spot for you. Memphis has one of the best music scenes there is. Nashville is another big Tennessee hot spot. It’s alive with an assortment of party venues to choose from. If you’re looking for something a little more peaceful, however, consider heading to Gatlinburg. This area has a little something for everyone, from family attractions and shopping to scenic hikes. You may also want to take a short day trip to Dollywood, the Dolly Parton-themed park nearby at Pigeon Forge.

South Carolina

South Carolina offers a terrific location for beach weddings. Looking for temperate weather for a spring or fall wedding? South Carolina is the perfect spot. While summer travel fills the coastal areas with tourists, months in the spring and fall offer beautiful weather without the crowds. If you’re looking for a dash of southern charm, then consider heading to Charleston. There you will find plantation-style venues among sweeping fields and beautiful oak trees.

While your wedding day is primarily a celebration of you and your spouse’s love, it’s also about the love you share with close friends and family. In truth, without the support you’ve both received from loved ones over the years, you wouldn’t be where you are today. This is especially true of mothers, who often put time and finances into ensuring your special day is as amazing as possible. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of your big day, but don’t forget to take some time to show both of your mothers just how much they mean to the two of you. If you’re looking for a meaningful—and relatively inexpensive—gift to show your appreciation, consider one of the following options.

1. “Open When” Letter Series

A set of “Open When” letters are incredibly sweet and can be used for a variety of occasions. The concept is simple: you write a letter that your mother will open at different times throughout the next several months. A few great examples:

• Open when you’re missing me.
• Open when I’ve done something to upset you.
• Open when you need to laugh.
• Open when you’re thinking about the past.

The options are endless! Once you’ve written each of your letters, combine them with related extras, like movie passes, photos, jewelry, or even just glitter.

2. Tree Sapling or Potted Flowers

Does your mom love gardening? To commemorate your special day, why not give her something she will enjoy for many years to come. Buy a young tree sapling and offer to plant it in her yard. Alternatively, consider giving her some perennial flowers. Either way, she’ll have beautiful greenery to remind her of the part she played in your special day.

3. Wedding Survival Kit

For many parents, big milestone events like weddings are filled with immense joy and, in some cases, tears. On a day when emotions are running high, you can never quite predict exactly what will come in handy. So why not plan to give your mother a goodie bag full of items that may be useful as the day progresses? Purchase a fun bag you know she’ll love or swing by the craft store for some supplies to decorate one of your own.

But what should you put inside it? Consider including tissues or an embroidered handkerchief to help dry away those happy tears. You can also pack in a few of your mom’s favorite snacks, as wedding days can run long and food isn’t always readily available. A fun cup or flask filled with your mother’s favorite drink may also be appropriate. Mints are another great option to freshed breath before the receiving line. Finally, you should also plan to include something personal as well. This can be a custom CD with all the songs you both love, a handwritten note of appreciation, or a framed picture of the two of you together.

4. Handmade Blanket

Handmade blankets are another great gift option for mothers. These have become more and more popular and your mom is sure to love this handcrafted gift. If you don’t personally know how to crochet, knit, or sew, consider asking a close family friend if they would be willing to help you make the blanket (or make it for you). Not only can you choose colors and a design you know your mother will like to make it more personal, but you can choose the most functional size as well. Whether you know your mom would prefer a handmade throw of a blanket large enough to fit her king-sized bed, this beautiful gift can be used to keep her warm for years. Additionally, crochet and knit blankets are relatively inexpensive. Depending on the yarn you select for the project, the biggest investment will be your time, which shouldn’t be an issue if you start working on the blanket early.

5. Spa and Pamper Kit

Who doesn’t love a spa day? While you can easily obtain a gift certificate to your mom’s favorite spa location, you may want to consider creating a spa day basket instead. Include items such as a scented candle, relaxing CD, soft robe, bath salts, and body lotion. Not only will your mom feel pampered, but she can enjoy the experience without even leaving home!

6. Photo Album

It’s no secret that moms love pictures of their family. Why not create a custom photo album and include pictures of the two of you together over the years? Consider selecting some special images from the day of your birth and then hit all of the special moments afterward. Depending on the layout, you can even include handwritten captions or notes next to the photos you select. Make sure you leave a section at the end for more pictures of the wedding, as well as a spot for your parents’ wedding photo to go beside your own.

7. Friends Forever Jewelry

Simple and sweet, “friends forever” jewelry is a beautiful way to show just how much your mother means to you. Depending on your mother’s personal preferences, it’s easy to find bracelets, necklaces, or key chains in all sorts of colors and designs. Want to make the gift even more special? Plan to wear your half of the set on your wedding day!

Your wedding day symbolizes the beginning of a new life with you and your spouse. From that moment forward, the two of you are connected by more than just vows and a last name; everything you are and will be becomes intertwined into a life that you will build and share together for years to come. While this is certainly a moment to treasure, it’s just as important to acknowledge the people who helped you get to it. Without the love and support of those closest to you, you may not have the pleasure of starting this grand ol’ adventure together.

While there are likely several people who have positively influenced your life, few can compare to your mother. In fact, mothers deserve a very special place at weddings. That’s why many couples opt to include father/daughter and mother/son dances as part of their receptions. This is extremely fitting, as your parents have been by your side your entire life, pushing you forward, helping you through challenges, and offering endless love and encouragement.

If you’ve decided to include the very special tradition of a mother/son dance at your wedding, it’s important to pick the perfect song for the occasion. Luckily, there’s a lot to choose from! To make the selection process a little easier, you may want to divide your options into categories. Here are several great mother/son songs that fall under the following categories: happy and sappy, upbeat and fun, and slow and sweet.

Happy and Sappy

“My Wish” by Rascal Flatts

In this song, Rascal Flatts manages to capture the wish of so many parents. Every line and verse sounds like the kind of advice a loving mother would give to her son when he begins talking about a new life journey. Consider the chorus and you’ll see just how perfect this song can be.

“My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to.

Your dreams stay big; your worries stay small; you never need to carry more than you can hold.

And while you’re out there getting where you’re getting to,

I hope you know somebody loves you and wants the same things too.

Yeah, this is my wish.”

“The Wonder of You” by Elvis Presley

While Elvis specialized in love songs, “The Wonder of You” really lends itself to expressing love for your mother. This selection is truly beautiful and, as an added bonus, it’s perfect for a family of Elvis fans. From the very first line, the song expresses the way it feels knowing your mother is there for you, ready to offer a helping hand no matter the circumstances.

“When no one else can understand me, when everything I do is wrong,

You give me hope and consolation; you give me strength to carry on.

And you’re always there to lend a hand, in everything I do.

That’s the wonder, the wonder of you.”

Upbeat and Fun

“How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)” by James Taylor

A mother’s love really is a beautiful and joyous thing and some songs capture the feeling behind it better than others. This classic by James Taylor isn’t only a lovely listen, but it’s also perfect if you and your mother want to plan some choreographed dance moves for your big day. Make the moment extra special (and sweet!) as you and your mother dance and listen to these beautiful lyrics:

“I needed the shelter of someone’s arms and there you were.

I needed someone to understand my ups and downs and there you were.

With sweet love and devotion, deeply touching my emotion.”

“Sweetest Devotion” by Adele

What better song to choose for your mother/son dance than one written by Adele for her own son? Adele is well known for creating songs that speak emotional volumes, but this one takes the cake! “Sweet Devotion” is the perfect song for the mother who has spent her life devoted to her children.

“The sweetest devotion, hitting me like an explosion.

All of my life, I’ve been frozen. The sweetest devotion I’ve known.”

Slow and Sweet

“93 Million Miles” by Jason Mraz

Jason Mraz is known for his easy melodies and slow but happy guitar work. Fans love a number of his songs because they are both immensely sweet and uplifting. This song, more than all the rest, rings true as a great mother/son dance song because of its touching lyrics:

“Oh, my, my how beautiful, oh my beautiful mother.

She told me, “Son in life you’re gonna go far,

If you do it right you’ll love where you are.

Just know, wherever you go, you can always come home.”

“How Long Will I Love You?” by Ellie Goulding

Ellie Goulding explores a simply beautiful sentiment in this song and, when applied to a mother’s love, it really is perfect for a mother/son dance at a wedding. It asks how long love will last and the answer couldn’t be more touching:

“How long will I give to you? As long as I live through you, however long you say.

How long will I love you? As long as stars are above you, and longer if I may.”

Ensuring that your wedding is both visually stunning and monetarily affordable is not always an easy task. It was once thought that the only way to have a beautiful wedding was to spend a large amount of money. With the DIY trend becoming more and more popular, however, creative brides can help cut costs while adding gorgeous design and style that they themselves created and can be proud of. Elements ranging from simple wedding favors to elaborate decorations can be created using easily accessible and affordable materials.

One versatile DIY wedding piece is the archway. These handy frames can be the centerpiece for your ceremony, a lovely accent for the entrance into your reception, or even a spectacular backdrop for photos.

Choosing Your Archway Design

It’s important to choose the right materials and structural design for your particular event. Here are two simple designs worth considering when building your DIY archway:

Two Post Design

The two post design is typically a thinner, more lightweight archway option. This is due to it only having a single post on either side holding the archway up. For this design, you’ll need to create two upside down “T” shapes—these will function as the base, or feet, of both sides of the archway. You can then add a cross beam to hold them together. Additional cross braces may be used on the bottom or top to provide some extra support. Two post style archways serve best as backdrops, unless you make them large enough for people to stand directly underneath. Remember to weight the bottom end of your “T” shapes if you’re building taller units with sand bags. You can also stake them directly into the ground if your event will be taking place outside.

Four Post Design

The four post design is a bit sturdier and doesn’t require as much support along the bottom. It’s easiest to visualize the four post design by imagining two door frames with decorative connecting beams holding them together at the top. Four post designs are particularly fitting if you plan to incorporate elaborate decorations because they offer significantly more space to work with. Simply create your two frames at the height you prefer and then bind them together so they’re parallel. This design is much sturdier due to having additional posts for support.

Choosing Your Archway Material

After you’ve chosen your framing design, it’s time to choose a building material that will best suit your needs. DIY projects allow you to be creative with which materials you use, but some will obviously work better than others.

PVC

PVC frames are very lightweight, making them ideal if you’re going to be moving the archway frequently. While their overall look isn’t as aesthetically pleasing, they are perfect for easy decorating. They won’t withstand lots of heavy pressure, but can be constructed without the use of screws or nails. Simply dry fit the pieces together at your local hardware store to find a design that works for you.

Wood

Wooden frames are by far the most common for DIY archway builders. If you have the proper tools, wood can be cut to fit your specifications with ease. It is advisable, however, to get wood that is thick enough to stand without bending and wide enough for screws at least 1.5 inches long. This will provide optimal support for your archway.

Metal

Metal frames aren’t as easy to create yourself, but do make lovely additions to any event. One alternative to creating your own metal archway is to upcycle a cheap metal frame. You can then paint or decorate it to suite your needs. Cheap metal frames may not be as sturdy, but heavier metal frames come at a greater cost.

Choosing Your Archway Decorations

Once you’ve built your frame, it’s time to paint it and add the decorations! Not only is this phase of the project the most fun, it’s also the part that prepares the piece for your wedding. Remember to choose appropriate paints for the material you’ve chosen and opt for outdoor options if your archway won’t always be indoors. With a wide variety of paints available, you can easily create a visually stunning accent piece to go with your wedding colors.

Going for a more traditional look? Simply drape sheer white cloth around the archway and add some flowers or greenery to achieve a natural, yet beautiful, aesthetic. While silk flowers and greenery are the cheapest solution, you can also use real flowers to decorate. White Christmas lights are also an amazing way to add some sparkle for your archway, especially if it is being used indoors or at night.

Feel free to get creative if you’ve selected a unique wedding theme. Your archway can be as exciting as you want it to be! Planning a Christmas wedding? Decorate with pine garlands, ornaments, and ribbon to create a faux-tree archway. Beach wedding? Use cotton and blue paint at the top of the archway to represent the clear sky, add some tan paint mixed with a bit of sand towards the bottom, and attach seashells and nautical treasures at the base!

What could be better than having your special day in a beautiful location that is as important to you as your wedding? Destination weddings are a fantastic way to incorporate a breathtaking and memorable location into one of the most exciting days of your life. There are a variety of places to have your wedding, depending on you and your future spouse’s personal preferences. Prices will, of course, differ greatly based on where you ultimately choose to venture and how far away it is from where you live. If having your wedding at a dreamy destination is what you want, you need to make sure to plan the event accordingly.

Deciding who you invite to your destination wedding can be a real challenge. There are several crucial factors that will influence whether or not your invited guests will be able to attend. While it is your special day, it is important that you make decisions that won’t alienate any of your loved ones. Destination weddings often mean smaller guest lists, however, so make sure you do your best to invite the right people. Consider the following questions about your destination wedding while making your final guest list.

How Much Time Will Guests Have to Save Money Before Your Wedding?

Time is of the essence when inviting guests to a destination wedding. The longer you give your guests before the event, the more likely it is that they will be able to afford the trip.

What Will Travel Cost Relative to Their Location?

With the modern world allowing us contact with people all around the globe, it is entirely possible that you are choosing to invite someone who is in an entirely different state, or even country, than you are. While each guest will have to decide for themselves if the travel is feasible, it is important to keep their potential expenses in mind.

How Long Do You Expect Guests to Stay?

Destination weddings are typically not the one-day events that standard weddings tend to be. Your guests are traveling, potentially long distances, and will want to have the trip be worth their time. It is very likely that your wedding venue will have plenty of activities for everyone to partake in during their stay. Make sure to let your guests know if there are any activities planned so they can make the decision to attend for the whole trip, just a portion, or not at all. Your guests may also have to make arrangements, like getting time off from work approved, setting up child or pet sitting services, or taking care of other assorted responsibilities.

Are There Affordable Accommodation Options?

Not all destination weddings are held at resorts. Make sure to let your guests know if there are multiple options for lodging nearby. Having multiple options in a few different price ranges will increase the odds that your invited guests will be able to attend.

Are You Expecting Wedding Gifts in Addition to Attendance?

It is also important to be honest with yourself, and your guests, about whether or not you expect gifts in addition to their presence at your destination wedding. Not only will guests have to save money to secure you an appropriate wedding gift, but they may need to think about how to bring this gift along with them. Ideally you should avoid having guests bring gifts to the destination wedding unless you’re able to transport them all safely back home afterwards.

Does Your Venue Have Attendee Limits or Bundle Packages?

Your choice of venue may affect who you can invite as well. Like any other wedding venue, you may be paying different prices depending on how many guests will be in attendance. Make sure that you speak with a representative at the wedding venue to discuss any limitations that will be in place. They may even offer discounts or free services if your guests are booking rooms all together.

Will Weather or Climate Be an Issue?

Every guest is a bit different, so keep their overall health in mind. Regardless of the age or health of the guests on your list, consider if your venue choice is in an area that may cause issues. Allergies, extreme temperatures, elevation, or even humidity may have dangerous effects on your loved ones.

Will Your Guests Get Along Together?

While everyone expects adults to behave appropriately, we all know issues can arise. For a destination wedding, your guests will be spending longer than a single night together. Be sure to keep your guest list clear of any potentially disagreeable pairings and you’ll have a much happier experience.

Do You Have a Close Relationship with Your Invitees?

With a wedding ceremony that is local, it is easy to invite large groups of people. Wanting to have as many of your friends and family involved in your special day is understandable, but destination weddings aren’t accessible to all guests. Make sure that you’re inviting guests that are truly close with you and you’ll avoid having to hear any awkward excuses from those who can’t justify spending the time and money to attend your destination wedding.

While you and your spouse-to-be are bound to be as sweet as can be, no wedding meal is complete without some sort of dessert. Are you, however, looking for an alternative to the traditional cake selections for your upcoming wedding? Don’t assume your options are limited. In fact, there are a wide variety of tasty treats available that you and your guests are sure to love! What’s more, opting to downsize or eliminate wedding cake from your menu can save you money. Consider these dessert options when planning your wedding; your wallet and your guests will thank you for it!

Candy Buffet

Do you remember taking a trip to the local candy store to fill up a goody bag of your favorite sweets? Bring that cherished memory back to life for your guests with a candy bar! Offering bulk candy at your wedding isn’t only cost-effective, but also provides your guests the opportunity to pick their favorite treats. Consider ordering personalized to-go bags for friends and family to fill before leaving—these sweet sacks can even be a wedding favor too! Additionally, setup for this dessert is easy. Making candy look good is a simple task and your guests will enjoy seeing some of their childhood delights on display.

S’mores

Campfires and s’mores are extremely popular, so consider setting up a station for your indoor or outdoor wedding. This may be easier than you think! While having an open flame may not be feasible, there are flameless options available that still embody the s’more experience. A marshmallow fondue pot, for example, will still provide heat enough to melt the chocolate without producing any potentially dangerous flames. Consider setting out trays of graham cracker options (cinnamon, chocolate, honey, etc.) and a spread of fun-sized candy bars. While chocolate is traditional and always a hit, get creative and throw in some other tasty candies as well.

Cinnamon Rolls

Cinnamon rolls aren’t just for breakfast anymore! Consider serving some of these fresh, gooey rolls for dessert at your wedding. Your guests will love the smell of cinnamon as it fills the reception hall and their mouths will be watering long before this sweet treat hits the table. Apart from traditional cinnamon rolls, consider variations that include nuts or citrus. Also consider adding orange zest to your icing and spreading a delicious orange marmalade inside the roll to create a sweet and tangy twist.

Waffle Bar

Waffles are the perfect vessel for a variety of dessert ideas. Have a waffle-making station available for fresh, crispy, fluffy goodness. While the options are endless, waffle sundaes are sure to be a hit! Have a few ice cream flavors, whipped cream, and delicious toppings available at the dessert table. Your guests will love creating their very own dessert masterpiece! This is especially delightful for children. Alternatively, you can make waffle strips to dip in a variety of sauces. Chocolate, flavored icings or syrups, and even peanut butter can be the perfect match for your waffle dippers.

Parfaits

Looking for a lighter dessert option for your wedding menu? Even the most health-conscious individuals typically enjoy the ingredients that go into parfaits. Parfait stations are an enjoyable way to incorporate healthier options, like fruit and granola into your reception. Consider offering a variety of fruit toppings, yogurt flavors, and granola available for your guests to create their own custom dessert dish. Everyone will enjoy having a healthy, but scrumptious, mix of crunchy, creamy, and sweet to munch on. As an added bonus, parfaits also look gorgeous!

Milk and Cookie Shots

Who doesn’t love cookies and milk? If you’re a fan, consider these delectable treat as an alternative to cake. You can purchase cookie molds shaped like shot glasses. These cookie shots can then be lined with melted chocolate. The result? Adorable little shot glass that can actually hold milk! The best part about this dessert and drink combo is that there’s plenty of opportunity to adjust this dessert to suit your specific needs. You don’t have to stick with standard chocolate chip cookies Try snickerdoodle, sugar, peanut butter, or even double chocolate if that’s what you and your fiancé prefer! The possibilities are endless! Consider having soy, almond, or cashew milk available for guests who are lactose intolerant or dairy-free.

Cake Pops

The perfect companions to a smaller wedding cake are cake pops. Talk with your baker to see if they offer these as an optional add-on. Guests will love being able to sample a bite or two of your wedding cake without committing to an entire piece. This is also ideal if you want to offer your guests multiple flavors. Additionally, cake pops are visually fun and can be set up in a variety of designs. Consider creating a cake pop tower or bouquet by pressing the sticks into foam blocks!

Are you looking for the perfect dresses for your bridesmaids? Picking the right attire for your bridal party is incredibly important. Not only do you want to look your best, but you want your closest family and friends to feel confident in their appearance on your big day as well. The problem? Bridesmaid dresses can be expensive, especially when you select one with all the bells and whistles. The fancier the dress, the more money you or your bridesmaids will need to spend. There are ways, however, to spruce up a simpler (and less expensive) bridesmaid dress for your wedding. One great way to accomplish this is by choosing exciting accessories to add to the ensemble. If this seems like the right option for you, here are five great items you can use to make your bridesmaids’ dresses really pop for you wedding!

1. Belts

Many dresses look extra amazing when paired with a matching or contrasting belt. Some bridesmaid dresses will actually come with a matching belt. A belt can provide a visually stunning break in a long dress, especially if it’s all one solid color. In addition to functioning as a source of bold design and color, belts can also be very flattering. They’re also available in a wide variety of materials, shapes, and sizes, so you’re sure to find one that’s perfect for your bridesmaid dresses.

2. Flowers

Flowers have always had their place in wedding ceremonies and receptions. They are not, however, often used as a fashion accessory for bridesmaids beyond the incorporation of a traditional bouquet. Using flowers to spruce up your bridesmaid dresses may be perfect for your event. If you decide to go this route, be sure to choose flowers that complement the dress you have chosen. Will your bridesmaids be wearing a single shoulder dress? Consider a corsage for the opposite wrist to create a beautiful line of sight that flows from the flower piece to the faces of your lovely bridesmaids. If, on the other hand, your bridesmaids will be wearing a dress with a low or plunging neckline, consider pinning flowers strategically to add additional coverage and aesthetic appeal. If your wedding theme allows, you may also want to have your bridesmaids wear matching flower crowns to add a more natural or bohemian touch to the ensemble.

3. Covers

Another great accessory worth considering for your bridesmaid dresses are covers. These include both scarves and shawls and are perfect for outdoor weddings, especially in cooler months. If your ceremony or reception take place outside, your bridesmaids will greatly appreciate a little extra protection from the cold weather or wind. If you’re planning to have a winter wedding, heavier cloaks can provide warmth while still remaining aesthetically pleasing. On the flip side, outdoor weddings in the summer can lead to sunburn if your bridesmaid dresses don’t have shoulders or sleeves. Providing your girls with a light scarf made of silk or nylon will provide extra protection from the sun without being too hot.

Apart from function, covers can be extremely stylish. This is especially true if you choose a strapless or off-the-shoulder dress. Sheer fabric allows the arms and shoulders to show through without leaving your bridesmaids feeling overly exposed. A more opaque fabric allows for additional color to compliment or contrast your final dress selection.

4. Jewelry

While jewelry is a relatively standard accessory for both the bridesmaids and the bride, the true power is in how you use it. The impact of an extravagant necklace may be lost if you choose a busier dress. Simpler dress options, however, allow for jewelry additions to make your entire outfit stand out more. Consider purchasing or making a set of jewelry to give to each of your girls as a bridal gift. Remember these tips when picking jewelry for your bridesmaids:

• Choose metals that match (or appropriately contrast) your dress selection
• Remember the neckline of the dress when choosing a necklace or earrings
• See the pairing together before purchasing

Additionally, don’t be afraid to pick something with personal flair. This is your big day, after all, and if you want your bridesmaids wearing peacock feather headdresses and necklaces to match your theme, then that’s what you should get them. Embrace the inner you and have fun picking the perfect jewelry for your wedding.

5. Shoes

Finally, shoes are an excellent accessory often used to tie a bridesmaid’s ensemble together. While a simple matching color or design is fine, the shoes you select can go a long way to creating a truly unique look for your bridesmaids. Get creative with your shoe selection, but remember that not every bridesmaid is capable of wearing a steep heel. There are a variety of ways to beautify a look with just about any type of footwear, from flats to wedges. Take some time to look up options online. You can also consider adding your own adornment to shoes, bringing your girls together for a fun shoe decorating party before your wedding for some additional bonding.

People joke about how most bridesmaid dresses are ugly because no one should look better than the bride on her wedding day…but the truth is that every bride needs her entourage around her, and they should be able to love their dresses just as much as you love yours. While many bridesmaids choose to suffer in silence, they shouldn’t have to suffer at all! To help you pick out the perfect dress for your bridesmaids, you’ll want to keep these five common complaints in mind:

It’s the Wrong Style

Everyone has style preferences. Some women look great in strapless dresses, while others find one-shoulder or off-the-shoulder dresses to be more flattering. It’s also highly unlikely that all of the bridesmaids in a party will have the same build. As a result, many women who agree to be bridesmaids complain that the style of the dress selected is all wrong. When picking your bridesmaid dresses out, keep the body types of all your girls in mind. Ideally, all of your bridesmaids will be able to try the dress on before the final decision is made. This will ensure that everyone in your party looks their best on the big day!

The Color is Atrocious

While coral is an ideal color for flowers, it doesn’t always make for the perfect dress. And because of varying skin tones, the perfect color for one bridesmaid may be absolutely terrible for another. These are important factors you will need to keep in mind as you make your dress selection. Luckily, most color schemes include at least two or three options. Make sure to carefully consider which color is best suited for a dress, as well as which color will look best on a variety of skin tones.

It’s Expensive

Many brides get so wrapped up in their own budgets that they forget about those of their bridesmaids. While being a bride is certainly more costly than being a bridesmaid, this is certainly something you need to keep in mind. Dress prices vary drastically, and some can be quite expensive. For that reason, you’ll want to select one that works with everyone’s budget. Remember, your bridesmaids are doing you a favor by agreeing to be part of your big day, so don’t make them regret the decision by emptying out their bank accounts.

I’ll Never Wear it Again

Another common complaint that bridesmaids give is that they will never wear the dress again. So not only are they spending a large amount of money, but they’re doing it to purchase an article of clothing that they will literally only wear a single time. While traditional bridesmaid dresses are rarely appropriate for everyday wear, there are still some designs out there that can be worn to several events. Be considerate of this when picking out a dress for your girls. To help with this, take a moment to ask yourself the following questions:

1. Would I want to wear this dress again if it were for me?
2. Where could I wear this dress in the future?
3. Is the color appropriate for other events?

Additionally, don’t assume you have to get your bridesmaid dresses from a bridal dress company. There are plenty of other options out there. The important thing is that you and your girls love the final selection.

It’s Uncomfortable

This last one is a factor you’ve likely kept in mind while picking out your own dress: comfort. Comfort is everything when it comes to big day-long events like weddings. While you definitely want your girls to look amazing, it’s just as important that they feel amazing, too. One very important way to do this is to keep the season in mind when selecting the dress. Are you having a winter or summer wedding? You can’t predict the exact weather conditions for the day of your wedding, but you can make some general assumptions regarding the temperature. If your wedding will take place in the middle of summer, longer dresses are probably a no-go. Likewise, avoid strapless, short dresses if you know that the ceremony is going to be in the dead of winter.

One great alternative to selecting a single dress for all of your drastically different bridesmaids is to let them choose one themselves. I know what you’re thinking — “But wait, what about my color scheme?” Not a problem. You can select a specific color from your favorite company and let your girls pick the style that best suits them based on your selection, or you can send them a color swatch and ask that they match it as closely as possible. Either option is viable and results in a matching ensemble. And don’t forget about the shoes! Not everyone does well in heels, so consider opting for a nice flat instead. Alternatively, provide a color preference for the shoes as well and let your bridesmaids find one that best matches their dress selection. If you decide to go this route, make sure you ask your girls to send you pictures of their picks before purchasing, just so you can confirm that they’ll fit in with the other things you’ve envisioned for your wedding.