Informal Gown for the Big Day

Informal weddings means informal dresses. Because people’s taste differ, not all weddings should be a formal, Cinderella-like affair. And even though pulling out on all stops is the idea of a wedding by some people, there are also those individuals who opt for economical occasions.

The most important factor when picking up informal dresses is the price, of course. Because you would like to get away from those gowns that cost thousands, go for informal dresses available for less than a hundred dollars. Looking around will give you plenty of choices specially since there are more shops offering informal dress than gowns. You don’t always have to opt for bridal shops. Other choices include dress shops, formal wear shops, and even tailoring shops.

There are wide array of reasons why there are couple who would like to go for an informal wedding and among them is the fact that a lot of people would recognize the need to save because of the current stiff economy that we are experiencing, while others would like the idea of a low-key beach wedding where they can enjoy at their fullest while setting aside all those formality. Furthermore, those who are going to be married for their second time around would rather go for something that is more casual because they already felt the excitement of wearing that fancy white gown that every girl probably dream about. No matter what the circumstance is, if informal dress is what you would like to wear during your big day, it is your right to do so. Nonetheless, an informal dress will give you the freedom to move around since there aren’t many bells and whistles as that on a formal dress. In fact, there are even beach brides who make use of dresses as simple as white sarong.

Bookmark this on Delicious

Kids on the Big Day

Children attending the wedding is a topic subjected to great debate. For some, wedding is a time when the whole family can be together while others think that children can be too immature for such occasion.

As a guest, try to respect the couple’s wish of not inviting your kids for their wedding. Understand that their decision has nothing to do to with offending your kids or the whole family. Instead of deciding that the whole family will not attend the wedding just because your bundle of joy was not invited, try to put yourself on the bride and groom’s perspective.

We can’t expect children to behave on such an occasion as solemn as a wedding. Babies will cry during the event and young children would ask unending questions. Just think about how the couple will feel if they are reciting their vow then a kid suddenly pulled the bride’s veil. For some, they can control their kids but how about those who can’t?

Also, parents won’t enjoy the wedding festivities if they have a kid on their arms. Consider that you will enjoy the wedding more if you just leave your kids to someone while you go attend the event on your own.

And if ever you think that the bride and the groom should make an exemption because your little Nancy is as prim as a sheep. The thing is, you are not merely the guest who feels this way because for sure, another mother is asking the bride and the groom to make an exemption for their kid as well. If the couple will allow a single kid to attend the event, the other parents who will attend will feel as if they had been degraded.

So the rule is, don’t push your invite way. If the couple wishes not to have kids on the wedding, accept it.

Bookmark this on Delicious

Carla & Brandon's Escort Poster

We just finished Carla and Brandon's wedding escort poster. What's an escort poster? Well, it's a great way to tell your guests what table they are seated at.

What makes the poster so nice is that after the wedding, the lovely couple can hang it in their home. Then they will have a keepsake that lists all their friends and family that attended the wedding.

If you are interested in an escort poster, please contact us today!

Bookmark this on Delicious

Wedding Gown Maintenance

After the big event, what will you do with your gown?


No matter if you intend to keep your gown for your daughter in the future or have it merely because of sentimental reasons, it is important more than anything else to have it cleaned first. Of course, before you keep it, you should have it cleaned the soonest. As much as possible, do it within the first thirty days after the reception. It is a common knowledge that the longer the stains remain on the gown, the harder it is to be removed thus creating a big mess on the color and fabric. Stains like cake, grease, food, soil, champagne and grass must be discussed properly to the cleaner.

The beads should be secured on their proper place and in case something is damaged, it should be sewn first before cleaning. Using Stoddard solvents are usually used to clean the gown properly as it eliminates damage on the gown.

After the cleaning process, inspect the gown properly. Stains that were not removed must be inspected as well. In case additional cleaning is necessary, bear in mind that it may mean an additional risk on the garment hence be sure that you know the possible consequence to prevent regrets later.

Keep the gown in a box that is free from moist and dust. Put it in a cool and dry place like in the middle of a closet or beneath your bed. Prevent yourself from storing it within your attics since the temperature is so high. It is vital that air can still circulate inside the box to stop a consistent and stable environment where the gown can age in.

Nevertheless, make it a point to inspect the gown condition every 5 or 7 years. This will allow you to have quality control so you can catch any stains before they worsen. In case new stains are seen, it is possible to re-clean it. White cotton gloves must be used to handle the gown to prevent finger oil from coming in contact with the gown. Bear in mind that oil can oxidize hence it may leave ugly stains on the gown.

Bookmark this on Delicious

For the Honeymooners

While the delightful feeling endures, it is the best time to unwind somewhere with the person who you plan to spend your whole life with. But with the recession going on, wise honeymooners are on the search for value, variety and journey. Here are some ways to save on your honeymoon, without sacrificing fun:

1. Spread the Fun- in case you are after variety but is not willing to spend an arm and a leg then be wise enough to choose a place that can offer an avenue for you to reach other destinations.

2. One price pays all- Grab a tour package! As of these days, all-inclusive vacation is becoming more and more popular among frugal honeymooners. This kind of trip also offers parents of the newlywed to look for a package that they can give as a gift. Nevertheless, before you go for one, be sure that air transfer, drinks, meals, recreations, and even tips are included on the one-time payment. 3. Tie the knot during the Honeymoon- Many couples like the idea of being married right within their honeymoon destination. This is a popular concept in the whole Caribbean island wherein resorts would offer everything that a couple will ever need for the occasion like cake, music, etc.

4. Stay on your Place- Since people’s schedule are severely hectic these days, lots of couples are going for a honeymoon that is just close to their home because some would admittedly like a long weekend at country inns that go somewhere and experience more stress from the long travel.

5. Go for an adventurous Honeymoon- Instead of being cuddly and engaging during the whole honeymoon, why not try something that will strengthen your bonds as couple? Try bungee jumping or trail the steep path towards the mountain, going for this option will free you from expensive hotel rates.

Bookmark this on Delicious

Sanctuary Dinner Choices

Since we are a preferred vendor of Sanctuary at Camelback Mountain, we work with them closely to create fabulously printed menus, table numbers and place cards for their events. Here is their selection of menus that are sure to tempt your taste buds. Along with Sanctuary 's beautiful views , they have excellent service, so it's a great place to have your wedding or corporate function.

Bookmark this on Delicious

Memory Through Creativity

Wouldn't it be nice for someone to think of you every time they did a certain thing, or thought of a different country? I say that would be great. So…teach ‘em something!

Say you and your hubby are enthusiastic seafarers. Your wedding is about to be on the dock near your getaway vehicle – his boat. All your guests are waiting for you to arrive. Give them something to do: create a section on how to tie a secure “love knot” with the ropes attached to their chairs. Every time your guests need to tie their children’s shoes, out camping, or on a boat themselves, they will always remember that they know how to make a knot from you.

Say now that your fiancé is from over seas and all his/her family is coming over to see your wedding. Print both languages – one on each side – on your invites and other collateral. Those curious will learn to say certain phrases in the other language and will say them to show support - Some more common ground to add to the new family connection.

There are many things that you could do to be memorable – but to impact someone’s life through everyday actions are the best. Learn of things to do for your wedding theme that will make people – and yourself - remember your special day for a lifetime.

Bookmark this on Delicious

The Office Wedding: Forever on the Dance Floor

If you watched the Office on NBC last night, then you got to see a hilarious episode and (finally!) the wedding of Jim and Pam. I, like many of you, loved it. I loved that Jim cut his tie after Pam ripped her veil. I loved that they snuck off and got married on their own. I also love that they still came back to the planned ceremony and didn't care that the wedding party was pulling some pranks.

The dancing down the isle was taken from a couple who was married earlier this year. I overheard some people talking and they sad, "Wouldn't that just suck if you were the couple they were mocking on the Office?"

I disagree. Copying is the biggest form a flattery. Yes, they were doing it more for a huge laugh on the show, but obviously they wanted something to make the moment special on TV. I actually give props to the bride and groom who originally did it. What a great idea that made the ceremony special, and definitely not boring. We say take a cue from this offbeat couple. Celebrate your day in a way that is uniquely you!

(The original couple)

Bookmark this on Delicious

Essential Niceties

Image your wedding in Arizona, under the brilliant sun and cooler temperatures of winter. Your side of the family lives in the upper Midwest, and your spouse’s family is under 50 miles away and some abroad. They use their vacation hours for time off at work, find someone to feed the dog, and have a sitter for the few days they are gone to watch the kids. They go to the store, and buy you what you asked for. They wrap it up, get all packed and jump on a plane or drive to see you get married.

Now imagine not thanking them for any of it. No thank you for spending their hard-earned money for your gift and their expenses. No thank you for taking the time out of their busy lives to come see you. No thank you at all.

Sadly, some people don’t send out thank you cards. Don’t be the relative that is ungrateful. No one wants to give something to someone who doesn’t appreciate it. Show how much you loved and appreciated everyone and everything by getting them out sooner.

Don’t dare send a mass mailing – insulting, plain, pre-printed thank you. Always say thank you with a personalized, hand-written thanks, expressing how the gift will be well used and that you will think of them in your home always.

Bookmark this on Delicious

Engagement Story: Samantha & Christopher

How they met...
Samantha's mother began working at the same company Chris was in 2007. He became very close with her mother and she would tell him all the time what a wonderful daughter she had. The first time Chris met her, he knew that they would be together. After a couple of happy hours with co-workers and some time together, they decided to go out on our first date.

How he proposed...
After that night, Chris knew that it was perfect. When he decided to propose, he wanted to do something that hadn't been done before. He put together a photo album, composed in order, of all of the things they had done up to that point. Along with photos, he also laid out a story line to go with it. The last photo in the album was one of Chris holding the ring box and a caption saying "....and he asked her a question....." After and akward silence and a look of surprise from her, he asked Samantha to marry him! She of course said yes and they celebrated with some champagne and a lot of phone calls.

The details so far...

Samantha and Christopher are having a black, white and red wedding in November of next year. We have already done their Save the Date Magnets and will post them soon.

Want to be on our blog? Send us your story and photo to info@beinlovedesigns.com

Bookmark this on Delicious