Relax and Enjoy your Day

Planning a wedding can be overwhelming – between finalising the guest list, keeping within budget and finding that show-stopping dress… there’s a lot to get through. But organising your big day doesn’t have to be a stressful time. Follow this checklist on what to do when, and you’ll enjoy stress-free preparations, right down to the final day.

10-12 MONTHS TO GO
:: Set the date.
:: Decide on a budget that both families are happy with (and be clear on who will be paying for what).
:: Choose your official wedding party and MC (if appropriate).
:: Select a handful of ceremony and reception locations and organise a meeting with the wedding event co-ordinator to talk through packages and pricing.
:: Start an inspiration scrapbook and file all clippings of things you like in it. Include dresses you like, decorative ideas, cake designs, floral arrangements…. Everything!

8-10 MONTHS TO GO
:: Finalise a guest list and send out save the date cards.
:: Start the search on your dress and bridesmaid dresses.
:: Start researching on ideal honeymoon destinations.
:: Book an appointment with a florist to talk about flower arrangements and pricing.
:: Book the reception/church/celebrant and run through menu options with the caterers.
:: Select a handful of wedding photographers and videographers and book an appointment to look through their portfolio and talk through pricing.

6-8 MONTHS TO GO
:: Finalise music for the reception and book entertainment (ie: band, DJ, etc) 
:: Order your wedding gown and veil – or start on dress making.
:: Finalise and order your bridesmaid dresses.
:: Finalise flowers with the florist and décor with the reception/ wedding planner
:: Book the honeymoon! Don’t forget the relaxing massage the minute you arrive at the destination.
:: Get started on your gift registry – if you decide to have one.
:: Book transportation (don’t forget the getaway car!)

4-6 MONTHS TO GO
:: Buy accessories for you and the bridesmaids.
:: Finalise the groom’s suit (if you’re allowed!) and groomsmen’s suits.
:: Book a hair and make-up trial. 
:: Book a hotel room for your wedding night. 
:: Organise pre-marriage counselling if you’d like it. A lot of churches strongly recommend this when booking the church.
:: Research and order wedding invitations, table place cards and bonbonniere.
:: Order your cake (and taste samples if they offer it!)
:: Organise taste testing for the menu. 
:: Order your wedding bands and engraving.
:: Confirm dates for your hens night and be clear with what you’d like (and not like) for the night out.

2-4 MONTHS TO GO
:: Finalise guest list. 
:: Send out wedding invitations.
:: Book hair and make-up artists for you and your bridesmaids. Don’t forget your mum and the groom’s mum too. 
:: Consider booking dance lessons for the bridal waltz.
:: Finalise the menu with the caterers/reception.
:: Start putting together wedding booklets and church ceremony readings.
:: Finalise the gift registry and make sure there’s enough in every price range for your guests.

1 MONTH TO GO
:: Start writing your vows and wedding speech.
:: Buy gifts for your groom and the wedding party.

3-4 WEEKS TO GO
:: Meet with your photographer to discuss shot list and photo locations.
:: Start putting together church booklets, name-tags and other stationery required.
:: Confirm honeymoon arrangements.
:: Chase up any guests who haven’t RSVP’d.
:: Write up a time schedule for the day (including important contact numbers) and send to all parties involved in important parts of the day (Ie: MC, priest/celebrant, photographer, DJ, wedding co-ordinator, drivers).

1-2 WEEKS TO GO
:: Pick up your wedding bands.
:: Send final guest list to reception place and confirm any vegetarian meals or special meal requirements for guests.
:: Book beauty appointments – wax, eyebrow shape, facial (no extractions!), etc.
:: Confirm pick up address and time with transportation.
:: Pick up the groom’s suit and groomsmen’s suits.
:: Book a hair appointment to have a trim and colour/treatment.

3 DAYS TO GO
:: Deliver all wedding favours, place cards, and liquor to the reception place.
:: Have a spray tan – not too close to the day. Everyone will know you haven’t been to Hawaii and back!
:: Have your final dress fitting – be sure to wear all jewellery, shoes, and correct underwear. 
:: Prepare a list of all payments required on the day, put in envelopes and leave someone in charge of handing out the appropriate people on the day.

WEDDING EVE
:: Get a manicure and pedicure.
:: Treat yourself and your groom to a relaxing massage. 
:: Have a wedding rehearsal (if relevant) with the bridal party and church/celebrant.
:: Get an early night!

Wedding Traditions

Wedding Lore and Traditions

by Elizabeth Olson

"Something borrowed" usually comes from a happily married woman and is thought to lend some of her good fortune and joy to the new bride.

Have you ever wondered why the bride stands to the left of the groom, or why the wedding ring is worn on the third finger of the left hand? The origins and meaning behind some of our most cherished wedding traditions may surprise you. There are, of course, multiple explanations for each piece of wedding lore, and few can be definitively traced back to their roots. Below are some of the more common and popular stories behind these traditions.

Tossing the Bouquet

Tossing the bouquet is a tradition that stems from England. Women used to try to rip pieces of the bride's dress and flowers in order to obtain some of her good luck. To escape from the crowd the bride would toss her bouquet and run away. Today the bouquet is tossed to single women with the belief that whoever catches it will be the next to marry.

Giving Away the Bride

The tradition of the father giving away his daughter has its roots in the days of arranged marriages. Daughters in those times were considered their father's property. It was the father's right to give his child to the groom, usually for a price. Today a father giving away his daughter is a symbol of his blessing of the marriage.

The Wedding Ring

The wedding ring has been worn on the third finger of the left hand since Roman times. The Romans believed that the vein in that finger runs directly to the heart. The wedding ring is a never-ending circle, which symbolizes everlasting love.

The Best Man

In ancient times, men sometimes captured women to make them their brides. A man would take along his strongest and most trusted friend to help him fight resistance from the woman's family. This friend, therefore, was considered the best man among his friends. In Anglo-Saxon England, the best man accompanied the groom up the aisle to help defend the bride.

Bride on Groom's Left

Because grooms in Anglo-Saxon England often had to defend their brides, the bride would stand to the left of her groom so that his sword arm was free.

Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue, and a Sixpence in Your Shoe

"Something old" represents the bride's link to her family and the past. The bride may choose to wear a piece of family jewelry or her mother or grandmother's wedding gown. "Something new" represents hope for good fortune and success in the future. The bride often chooses the wedding gown to represent the new item. "Something borrowed" usually comes from a happily married woman and is thought to lend some of her good fortune and joy to the new bride. "Something blue" is a symbol of love, fidelity, and purity of the bride. A sixpence in her shoe is to wish the bride wealth in her future life.

The Tiered Wedding Cake

The origin of the tiered wedding cake also lies in Anglo-Saxon times. Guests would bring small cakes to the wedding and stack them on top of each other. Later, a clever French baker created a cake in the shape of the small cakes and covered it in frosting. It is now known as the tiered cake.

Wedding Bouquet

Flowers are incorporated into the wedding ceremony as a symbol of fertility. The first bouquets consisted of herbs and, later, orange blossoms.

The Bridal Veil

The bridal veil has long been a symbol of youth, modesty, and virginity and was used to ward off evil.

Bridesmaids

The bridal party is a tradition that has been established for many centuries. For a long time the purpose of the bridal party was to fool evil spirits. The bride's friends dressed similarly to her in order to confuse any virulent presences that might be lurking about. Today bridesmaids are there to support the bride in the stressful times during the wedding.

Wedding Favors

Thinking of giving your guests some fun little favours? Then here’s a few ideas for your special day!

1. Pour some jelly beans into clear tubes and voila! You have some cheap & beautifully coloured favours!

2. Matches are becoming ever more popular in the world of weddings, especially with a clever slogan like these!

3. For the book lovers out there, give the gift of literature!

4. Can’t forget to keep the beer cold!

5. Bubbles! Bubbles! Bubbles!

6. We love these mini button cookies!

7. Here’s a great way to ensure you get some awesome, personal photos on your wedding day! Dot these cards around the tables for your guests!

8. Or shed a little light with some candles matching your colour scheme!

9. This musical couple gave their guests CD’s to take home!

10. For those having a summer wedding why not bag up some colourful fruit?

11. If you’re sampling some Chinese cuisine at your wedding then add a personal touch to the chopsticks making them a perfect momentum from your wedding!

New Wedding Style Guide....

 

 

 

 

 

 

Purchase your copy of our gorgeous new digital issue 24....fresh alive and inviting...

Find out what's new from around the globe...be kept upto date with the latest...!!!

 

 

 

Summer 2013 Issue 23

Wedding Style Guide International is proud to release the Summer 2013 Issue 23 as a Digital ONLY magazine.
The Summer 2013 Issue 23 is designed for easy viewing online and is full of all the latest ideas and fashions for you to be inspired for your special day, your wedding day!


We present Kelsey Genna's latest gowns! Amazing gowns from down downunder - New Zealand! At only 21 years old you will be wowed by the designs!


Tutu Du Monde presents the cutest outfits for kids!


Val Stefani from USA gowns are stylish and extravagant! See her latest here.


We were surprised to discover the unique style from Tekay Designs in USA. Her gowns are unique designed luxury without the price tag!


Blu Wedding Boutique and Amy Elizabeth Rodd Photographer joined forces to create the most beautiful Vintage Tea Party photo shoot featuring the gorgeous gowns from Mia!


With all the stress of planning and organising the big day what better idea than to gather your bridal party at a spa resort like Authenticity in Port Elliot, SA. Beautiful! Peaceful! Relax!


Trash the Dress photo shoots can be lots of fun after your wedding day. What to do with that dress? Have fun!


Melissa from Melbourne Street Flowers created an inspirational dessert table idea. You can either use the receipes and ideas for your wedding or for one of the many pre-wedding events.


Alice Richards and Lisa Diedrich Photography joined forces to create the MOST inspirational wedding photo shoot full of ideas for you. Includes a fabulous wedding cake from Faye Cahill Cake Designs that is just to die for!


Artaquis Photography presents Reve Blanc photo shoot. A range of gowns, dresses and accessories that are inspired by the 1950-60s. Just elegant and graceful - exquisite!


La Gartier talks about the belt renaissance. You can enter the draw to win one of Sarah's gorgeous hand made garters to wear at your wedding!


Can't decide where to go for your Honeymoon? Wedding Style Guide presents images from two resorts in Samoa. Totally peaceful, relaxing and fun!


Maree Jeanette from Melbourne tells us what accessories are the latest fashion and how to choose what is best for you!


A lot of couples are choosing to marry overseas these days. Going back to where their parents or ancestors are from but there are many pitfalls to this idea. Wedding Style Guide speaks to the experts to find out how you can avoid any problems and how to go about making this idea a reality.

Wedding Style Guide went beyond just Real Weddings in this issue.


Holly and Michael went above and beyond with her DIY Real Wedding. Lots of tips and ideas! Involve everyone and see the results!


Felicity and Turk being "foodies" themselves wanted to be different and took the idea of A PROGRESSIVE DINNER to A PROGRESSIVE WEDDING Held in Italy they took their guests and family to 4 different venues.
Just so amazing and different!

See all this and more in the Summer 2013 Issue 23

You can view this magazine on your iPad or iPhone, amongst many other mobile devices!

Wedding Style Guide International continues to be your design and styling leader!

Your only destination for wedding inspiration!

 

iPad and iPhone readers ~ For Preview CLICK HERE

Wedding Favours: How to Choose the Right One for Your Wedding

Wedding Favours

One of the most creative elements of a wedding is choosing favours for the big day. Wedding favours are given away as tokens of your appreciation to guests for participating in you and your spouse’s special day. You want your favours to reflect both you and your spouse’s distinct personality! If you’re on a tight budget, you can create your own wedding favours. If you got the budget, then your choice is virtually limitless.
Unfortunately, because there are literally thousands of wedding favours to choose from, picking just one can be quite challenging. The last thing you want are wedding favours that stick out like a sore thumb! To help you choose the right favours to give away on your wedding day, consider these tips:

Focus On The Wedding Theme

To find the right wedding decor, consider the theme of your wedding. If the color scheme is blue and silver, you can create candy bags with blue and silver wrapped treats. For carnival themed soirees, you can offer popcorn and candied apple treats as wedding favours.

For garden or spring weddings, you can use scented candles decorated with fresh blooms or mini potted plants with a thank you note as give-aways.

Add Local Elements

If your wedding is held in states with a regional speciality, then don’t be afraid to show off the local flavors in your wedding favours. For example, if it’s a beach setting, colorful buckets filled with beach essentials make a perfect wedding giveaway as well as star fish paperweights, clear bottles filled with sand, shells and trinkets.

For mountain weddings, cute hand or neck warmers make an interesting giveaway. You can also give away bottled local delicacies as wedding favours. Just add a touch of personality on each favour with ribbons or other decors.

Season-Appropriate favours

If say, you are planning a fall wedding, you can use pumpkin-based goodies or candy apple treats as giveaways. For those who love beach weddings, personalized sunscreen bottles or beach towels are great wedding favours ideas. For spring weddings, you can either offer DIY wedding favours encrusted with local blooms, edible favours or even garden sprinkles in cute tin cans as giveaway!

Double-Duty Wedding Giveaways

Practical giveaways make the perfect keepsakes. From quirky bottle openers, salt and pepper shakers, small jewelry boxes, champagne flutes or textured ring pillows, there are various giveaways that are just as useful as they are beautiful.

Give Back

If you are passionate about supporting a certain foundation, a research group or a non-profit organization, you can request your guests to make donations to your favourite charity instead and give away a simple, personalized thank you note for every donation received. Just make sure you get a receipt for tax purposes.
When it comes to wedding favours, the options are limitless! You can find the right favours by focusing on the theme of your wedding, the color scheme as well as the location of the wedding. Just make sure that whatever favour you choose, don’t forget to have fun! Preparing your wedding is a momentous occasion that will literally change your life so make sure your favours are worthy reflection of this happy occasion.

Blog by Ryan ZHU, The Function Room—Event Hire

Paisley Blue Hues

Paisley Blue Hues

At a time when too much pattern is not enough, paisley is hot. The ornate, feathery design dates back to persia in the 1500s when royalty embellished court garments and crowns with fine detail. Rediscover paisley’s luxurious potential using a ralph lauren wallpaper and make a contemporary statement in smokey blue against bridal white.
Blue continues to be the world’s most favourite colour, so use the crowd pleaser to the hilt. In a white marquee, pedestals decorated with paisley wallpaper are used to put the blue story on show. A bold cluster of cobalt bottles looks sharp and a touch quirky, The gladioli stems add a dignified beauty and the paisley pattern ties it all together.



The sublime colours in the florist’s arrangement are breathtaking against the exquisite paisley patterned box. A striking sheath bouquet of long stemmed white gladioli is skirted with the soft-to-touch frills of silver suede foliage. The subtle charcoal velvet bow adds a truly tactile finish.

"A sapphire statement"

Following the theme, the buttonholes have been made from individual white gladioli blooms with a silver suede leaf. Their stems have been set into tiny paisley wallpaper cones and finished with the thinnest of navy blue bows.



Boxed flowers always have an ultra special feel, but when the boxes match the flowers in beauty, the effect is dizzyingly perfect. Organise lined boxes for the flower deliveries. The benefits are doublefold, the wedding day photos will show the flowers off to their best advantage and the thrill for the bridal party will be memorable.

An alternative to individual guest favours is an inviting jar of self-serve after dinner lollies on the table. The handsome glass and pewter canisters are decorative in themselves and hold mints for a post dinner treat. Cut into circles, the patterned wallpaper decorates the centre of each table, emphasising the theme of the wedding.



The classic paisley pattern lends itself to many thoughtful and interesting uses. Paper has been twirled into cones which are used to hold rose petals to be thrown rather than confetti.

The perfect detail, a letterpress placecard

in a paisley design.



Mid blue fabric has been hung as a backdrop to heighten the blue colour theme in the white marquee space. The generous use of the textile creates a swish, well decorated look and creates a contrasting backdrop for the elegant table setting. In a recent floral turnaround, white gladioli have made a big comeback and it’s easy to see why, they add height and make a classic centrepiece in a simple cylindrical vase.



A cake that really looks too good to cut; if ever there was a centrepiece on the dessert table, this ‘look at me’ delight wins on a number of counts. It’s a stand alone beauty that echoes the decorative theme of the wedding closely and does divine things to tastebuds. The nine-tiered fondant wonder is finished in a pale blue pearlescent wash and detailed with a paisley motif.


"The power of good design"

The Ralph Lauren paisley wallpaper decorated the wedding venue and inspired the artwork for the stationery suite which includes the invitation, menu, placecards and swing tags, all follow the theme.



A delightful picnic food box would be a welcome pick-me-up for the bride and groom after the reception. This idea is perfect for the occasion when ordering room service would be too much after a great dinner and raiding the mini bar would not be good enough. The box is convenient, it can be made to look like an extension of the wedding when wrapped in the themed paper binned when finished.