Budget is a huge consideration when planning your big day and your wedding florals are a significant portion of that budget. Your wedding flowers will be one of the most photographed details of your wedding so it’s understandable why you want to spend the time and money. However, with a little creativity you can achieve an exquisite floral look without breaking the bank.
1. Go Green
Consider using more greenery than flowers in your centerpieces. Using flowers as accent pieces in your centerpieces rather than as the main focus allows you to incorporate your favorite florals in a budget-friendly way. Succulents are another way to add a trendy green vibe – use them in centerpieces, wedding bouquets, or boutonnieres!
2. Use Substitutes
Many times, you can swap one type of flower for another less expensive flower. For example, swap calla lilies for tulips, which are similar in shape. If you love the style of orchids, switch cymbidium orchids out for less expensive dendrobium orchids. Lavender and daffodil are also excellent substitutes.
3. Kissing Ball Pomanders
Wood curl kissing ball pomanders add instant color and texture to your wedding style without breaking the bank. Pomanders are especially versatile – use them to adorn pews, as bouquets, or as centerpieces. You can also combine them with fresh flowers or crystal elements for a dramatic reception decor look.
4. Silk Flowers
Sometimes you may come across a gorgeous floral arrangement and find yourself asking if the flowers are real or fake. Silk flowers are extremely convenient because they don’t wilt or require water, are lightweight and thus easier to handle and transport, and are durable in any setting. They’re also just as gorgeous as the real thing!
Remember, it’s possible to have the wedding of your dreams on a budget with a little creativity and planning! Scour our Pinterest board for more ideas!
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A while back, we introduced emerald green as Pantone’s Color of the Year. A stark contrast from last year’s red-hot tangerine tango, emerald green invokes lush and regal feelings. As a clean, classic, and jewel-tone hue, emerald green can easily be infused throughout your wedding – from your cake and cutlery, to your jewelry and dancing shoes!
One way to ensure that Pantone’s Color of the Year will prominently display at your wedding is by dressing your bridesmaids in lush emerald green. Whether you choose matching dresses or let your friends decide on their own style of dress, emerald green will suit any manner of dress.
If you’re a DIY kind of bride, consider going creative with fabrics such as emerald green tulle bolts or organza bolts. Use them as drapery, table covers, table runners, or chair sashes for an instant pop of lush green. We also love emerald green leaf garland trim to accent gift boxes, vases, tablecloths, and more.
You can also showcase emerald green as your primary decor color and use alternative shades of green as accent colors. For example, green pom poms or green kissing balls are perfect accent decor pieces.
Or save the color for the very end – let your cake and dessert table explode in radiant emerald green. Stock your dessert table supplies with green vintage paper drinking straws, mason jars, and green cupcake wrappers.
We especially love that Pantone chose emerald green because it’s perfect for any style of wedding – glam, classic, rustic, or vintage. Play around with this bold green hue – it’s impossible to go wrong with it!
Scour our Pinterest board for more ideas!
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Happy Monday everyone – hope you all had a wonderful weekend!
We’re big fans of Downton Abbey and last night’s U.S. premiere had us breathless over Mary and Matthew’s wedding! From the dress, to the jewels, to the fabulous hats, we got to imagining how we could replicate a 1920 wedding today.
It seemed almost every lady at Downton Abbey wore a brooch of some sort. Whether used as hair ornaments or dress buckles, brooches were everywhere. You can easily incorporate jeweled brooches into your wedding by adding them to your flower bouquet, using them as napkin treatment, or adorning them with a piece of ribbon as a pillar candle wrap.
 We didn’t get to see Mary and Matthew’s wedding cake, but we can only imagine it would have been sitting on nothing less than an antique silver jeweled cake stand.
Photos may not have been all the rage in 1920, but you can still add some art deco charm to your wedding with vintage pearl wooden frames. Fill them with your engagement pictures, pictures of your parents, grandparents, or any loved ones, and place them anywhere you please – the guest sign-in table, the dinner tables, etc.
 Finally, use vintage inspired decor like pinwheel fans, hanging pinwheels, and vintage script pinwheel door signs for a Downton Abbey inspired wedding reception!
 Tell us – are you fans of the show? Who are your favorite characters?
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2013 is finally here and we’re excited to see what new wedding ideas the new year will inspire.
Ombre is one popular trend we adore – especially when applied to paper fans, paper lanterns, and placecards!
Ombre accordion paper fans in oasis blue, dark pink, purple, watermelon, and candy apply green are perfect for spring and summer weddings! These paper fans are fashion forward while also serving a practical use – keeping guests cool in the soon-to-come warm months.
We also love these ombre paper lanterns – a new decorative touch to an old favorite! Ombre paper lanterns fit the bill whether used outdoors or indoors. Mix and match colors for a true eye-catching effect.
Finally, placecards in the shape of mini ombre paper fans are especially perfect for outdoor/beach weddings.
We can’t wait to see what more ombre trends are in store for 2013!
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Happy New Year dear readers! We hope everyone had a memorable holiday to welcome in 2013.
If you’re planning a wedding this year, now is the time to officially get things moving! With so much to do – booking caterers, photographers, florists, and of course the honeymoon – and so many options to choose from – the dress, the hairstyle, wedding colors, and rings – it can definitely get overwhelming at times. However, when it comes to design and decor – whether you’re a DIY kind of bride or just looking for some inspiration – we’re here to provide some guidance!
We’ll start with everyone’s favorite – the wedding cake. These days, there are so many options when it comes to this featured dessert of the day. While traditional wedding cakes are still popular, here are some ideas on how to incorporate new 2013 wedding trends into this traditional favorite.
1. Go Mint
While emerald green is Pantone’s Color of the Year, cakes are likely to be tinted a softer green – namely mint green. If you’re having an outdoor or rustic wedding, consider a mint colored wedding cake. The color’s airy softness perfectly complements outdoor settings and can be embellished in pastel colors. Set it in a lace trimmed cake stand, and you’ve created a beautiful wedding display.
2. Ombre
Here’s a design idea we saw take shape in 2012 that continues to go big in 2013. Ombre works with any color scheme because these cakes are beautiful in any color! The beauty of an ombre cake lays in the gradual layers of a single color, dark to light, from bottom to top. It’s a perfect choice if you’re style is romantic or modern.
3. Bling!
If you’re all about the glam and bling on your wedding day (and why not?) then don’t be afraid to hold back on your wedding cake! Diamond mesh rolls, crystal brooches, and decorative rhinestone trim are made to be incorporated into your cake and even your cake stand.
4. Play With Shapes
Skip the traditional round cake and go geometrical with hexagons or octagons! We love the idea of a traditionally decorated wedding cake in an unexpected shape. You can also try mixing shapes together – round layers paired with square layers – for a trendy look.
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Today we return to our top 10 list for artisanal wedding ideas for 2013. Read on for ideas you can use to incorporate artisanal trends into your own wedding.
6. Wedding Cake
The tradition of a wedding cake is a time-honored one and one that many couples choose despite trendy alternatives such as macaroons, pies, and candy bars. However, sticking to a traditional wedding cake doesn’t mean you have to forgo new trends. Put an artisanal spin to your cake by looking for bakeries that work with local farms and that use high-quality ingredients. Choose flavors that have an artisanal appeal – marzipan almond cake, vanilla cake with fresh strawberries, or lemon poppy cake with buttercream frosting.
7. Lollipops
Made from scratch lollipops add a perfect artisan touch – because they are customized, artisanal lollipops can be designed to your aesthetic satisfaction – delicious pieces of art made to be eaten! If you’re planning a candy buffet for your reception, be sure to include this candy favorite.
8. DIY Artisan – Clothespins
Sometimes going artisanal can significantly add to your wedding budget. However, you can create your own handmade look with just a few accessories. One of our favorites – clothespins – are so versatile in use. Create your own signs – “Love” or “Here Comes The Bride”, or hang photographs by clipping these pins to a clothesline. It’s an easy and budget friendly way to add instant artisan charm.
9. Mason Jars
Here’s another way to save big and still embrace the artisan trend – for bridal shower favors, send loved ones home with your favorite made-from-scratch cookie recipe beautifully packaged in pretty mason jars. Each jar should include all the necessary dry ingredients for one batch of cookies. It’s an adorably personalized made-from-scratch favor guests will appreciate.
10. Artisanal Cocktails
The ceremony is over and now you want to wow your guests with out-of-this-world cocktails and mocktails at the reception. Bartenders specializing in artisanal drinks can feature spirits that are rich in rare fruits, dried spices, and fresh herbs. Work with your bartender to choose a signature cocktail – one that showcases your tastes – and leave guests happily content.
We’d love to hear how you plan to incorporate artisan trends into your wedding – leave us a comment below!
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Today we’re continuing our look at wedding trends for 2013. Going artisanal will be ever popular with couples embracing all things artisanal for their special day. Here are our top favorite artisanal trends for 2013:
1. Artisan Rings and Wedding Bands
For many couples, the choice of rings is the most cherished aspect of the wedding. After all the cake, dancing, and even the dress, remain two people promising each other a lifetime of love and commitment, represented by these rings. Hence the appearance of artisan rings, handcrafted and made with love and care.
2. Stationary
From save-the-date cards to thank you notes, it’s likely stationary will be key to your wedding. While big box stationary continues to remain popular, a resurgence of handmade (or made to look handmade) stationary will be a mainstay in 2013.
3. Favors – Artisan Soaps
Many brides put thought and care into choosing memorable favors for their guests. For smaller events like your bridal shower, consider artisan soaps – because they are custom made, you can personalize the soaps based on color, season, or ingredients.
4. Favors – Chocolate
It’s hard to resist chocolate in any form, but for couples looking for artisanal inspiration, chocolate favors can be taken to a whole another level. Find a local sweet shop and choose designs and flavors (truffles anyone?) which appeal to you. Box them in dainty favor boxes and send guests home with a special treat.
5. Food – Going Local, Going Seasonal
A big artisan wedding food trend in 2013 will be food which is sourced locally and in season. Aware of this growing trend, many caterers have craft food items on their menu – from gourmet grilled cheese (sourced locally of course!) to artisanal marshmallows. Scour farmer markets, food and wine festivals, and other culinary events in your community for inspiration!
Stay tuned for our next 5 artisanal wedding trends tomorrow!
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We hope everyone is enjoying this Christmas day with loved ones, good food, and good cheer!
One of our favorite Christmas traditions is decorating for the holidays. Whether you go all out with your holiday decorations or prefer a minimalist approach, holiday decorating can add up. With that in mind, here are a few of our favorite things that can be used during the holidays and year round – from your next holiday soiree to summer graduation parties, Cinco de Mayo celebrations, and more! Having these decor staples on hand means you can save more than a little when holiday decorating comes around each year.
1. Votive Holders
Votives are a must for any event – lay them down on the dinner table, on the mantle, or anywhere you like. They’re lovely at Christmas time…..or anytime!
2. Candelabras
If you’re looking to add one big decor piece to your holiday look, then consider candelabras. Candelabras are unique in that they feel very Christmas-time when used as a part of your overall holiday decor, but also work perfectly when used alone for your non-holiday gatherings.
3. Charger Plates
You’ve probably been noticing the use of charger plates everywhere lately – from intimate dinner parties to large weddings. Its popularity is due to its elegance factor – a simple plate goes far in bringing that wow factor to your event. Choose metallic colors like silver or gold that are suited for both holiday and year-round celebrations alike.
4. Rose Runner
Bring texture to your holiday tablescape with gorgeous rose runners – you can use any color (don’t feel compelling to stick to red or green) and re-use them again for birthday dinners, graduation parties, and more.
5. Hanging Votive Holders
Add an elegant touch to your Christmas dinner and again at your summer bash. Illuminating votive holders are brilliant are year long.
6. Ribbons
We are absolutely in love with all things ribbon – how can you resist? Organza, satin, or glitter, it’s all so versatile and easy to use on almost any decor arrangement. Perfect for the holidays and beyond.
7. Submersible LED Lights
Bring a little something extra to your holiday displays and centerpieces with submersible LED floralytes. Perfect to use as candle replacements for votives.
8. Diamond Rhinestone Ribbon Rolls
Add a little (or a lot) of bling to your holiday decorations. It’s bendable and pliable allowing you to cut and wrap to your liking. Use the ribbon as napkin holders or to wrap around Christmas bouquets – let your imagination run wild with endless possibilities.
9. Cupcake/Cake Stands
If you’re like us, then cupcakes and/or cakes are a staple feature at most get-togethers, whether at the holidays or anytime. Make sure to have a durable cupcake stand or cake stand to showcase your dessert masterpiece.
10. Edible Glitter
Holiday treats are essential to any party. From sugary, indulgent sweets to more health-conscious treats, add sparkle and charm to these desserts with festive edible glitter.
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We’re continuing our 2013 wedding forecast with top wedding food trends for the upcoming year. Food plays an integral part on your special day and becomes an important part of your wedding day narrative for both you and your guests. With food, it’s not just what you eat, but also how and where. Though remember – you don’t need to blow your budget to wow your guests. Take a look below for some of 2013′s hottest wedding food trends.
1. Local and Fresh
Keeping food near and dear will be a huge trend in 2013. Menus sourced from local and fresh ingredients allow you and your guests to enjoy the scene. For instance, if you’re going for a dream Hawaiian destination wedding, serve up a local favorite like fresh shave ice.
2. Dessert Tables
A popular hit in 2012, dessert tables are here to stay in 2013. We love dessert tables because the options to get creative are endless – stick to your favorite colors, or pick an era like the 1980s and stock your table with nostalgic treats, or choose sweets representative of your heritage. There’s never a wrong way to stock a dessert table!
3. Food Trucks
Another hit from 2012, wedding food trucks are a super hit with guests and wedding party alike. Before hitting the after party, make sure you hit the food trucks first. Korean tacos, grilled cheese, or falafel sandwiches – treat your guests to something extra at the end of the night.
4. Key Menu Items
Rejected by mainstream diners in the past, 2013 will be a good year for kale, beet greens, chard, and mustard greens. Ask your caterer to serve up appetizing creations with these on-trend veggies.
5. Family-Style Servings
A new budget alternative to buffets, family style tables with large platters of food are a great way to have guests mingle at the table while having the comfort of sitting throughout the meal.
6. Homemade Desserts
If you’re having an intimate wedding with close friends and family, then this 2013 trend is perfect for you! Whether it’s crumbles, pies, or cupcakes, homemade fits in divinely with your cozy affair. Have friends or family collaborate to make delicious homemade treats.
7. Family Roots
Whatever your background, highlight it with your favorite foods from the old country. Ask your caterer to stay traditional or mix elements to create a fusion masterpiece.
8. Tales From the Bar
Forget cosmos and martinis – 2013 is the year of artisanal cocktails! From champagne to tequila bars, the key is the infusions used to concoct these drinks. Think fruits, fresh herbs, and dried spices.
9. Fruit-Flavored Sodas
Give your guests a break from typical fast-food sodas and go with a more colorful, unique option in fruity sodas. Try hibiscus, pomegranate, or lemongrass for variety.
10. Shot-Glass “Amuse-Bouches”
Food served in shot glasses is the latest trend to allow guests a satisfying quick bite before hitting the dance floor. If you’re planning a reception heavy on dance and good times, ask your caterer to create these fulfilling, amazing bites.
Ready to say good-bye to 2012? Tells us about some of your favorite wedding trends from this year!
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Christmas is just around the corner, but we’re already excited for the 2013 wedding season! If you’re planning a wedding for 2013, don’t miss out on these top trends that will tie your perfect day all together!
1. Paper Lanterns
Paper lanterns are perfect for almost any type of wedding – from budget-friendly to extravagance, to indoor or outdoor – this key piece of decor makes creative lighting simple. Part of the fun of paper lanterns is that the options are endless – you can stick to just one color, try different shades of the same color, or get colorful by color-blocking different hues. An added bonus – paper lanterns can function as centerpieces as well!
2. Colorful Charger Plates
Dressing the table is arguably one of the most important pieces of your wedding decor. Solid color charger plates were all the rage in 2012 and the trend shows no signs of disappearing. Because you can find charger plates in practically any color, it’s easy to find one that fits with your style. Set against white linens, brightly colored charger plates immediately tell your guests it’s time to party.
3. Tissue Paper Pom Poms
We’re starting to see a trend here: color. Whether you use tissue paper pom poms as an alternative to paper lanterns, or in addition to, this decor trend adds casual elegance to any event. You can even use them at your bridal shower and then again at the wedding – a budget friendly way to go big on decor.
4. Kissing Balls
Here’s another trend we’re noticing: hanging decor. We love kissing balls because they’re an easy yet decorative way to instantly dress up your outdoor event. Hang these from trees, shepherd hooks, or the backs of chairs. Extremely detailed, kissing balls create stunning decor for any event.
5. Hanging Crystal Garlands
Looking to add some glam to your wedding without going overboard? 2013 is all about subtle touches of glamour. Hanging crystal garlands are perfect to use on centerpieces, especially on gorgeous manzanita trees. Mix and match colors on the same centerpiece for an unexpected look.
6. Paper Fans/Sandalwood Fans
Summer is still far off, but it’s not too early to start planning your summer wedding. Many couples like to take advantage of the gorgeous weather and hold their wedding and/or reception outside. However, whether your guests will be seated in a tent or not, make sure they’re prepared for the hot summer sun. Paper and sandalwood fans are perfect because they’re both functional and decorative!
7. Raffia Fans
If you’re looking for more texture in your fans, then look no further than raffia fans. These days you can find raffia everywhere – furniture, party ware, and rugs!
8. Rhinestone Ribbon Rolls
Here’s another trend that’s here to stay for a while – rhinestone ribbon rolls. If you’re a DIY kind of bride, then this is a 2013 must-have. These rhinestone rolls are easy to cut and to add adhesive to on the back. Let your imagination run wild with this glam decor. Some of our favorite ideas: wrap around candle centerpieces, use them on place cards, decorate your gift box, and more!
9. Custom Cupcake Toppers
Custom cupcake wrappers were everywhere in 2012 and don’t expect them to go anywhere in 2013! Customized cupcake toppers are a fun way to add personalization to your special day. Use these toppers to create messages for your save-the-date cards, engagement photos, and reception dessert table!
10. Burlap
One of our favorites – burlap is a must for any vintage, shabby chic event. Perfect for both indoor and outdoor events, burlap adds and instant touch of rusticity.
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