Guests - who should you invite?

With today's elaborate weddings and pricey receptions, one of the ways to control the cost is to control the guest list. This adds another problem - who should I invite?  It's always a tough decision when you have a limited number of invitations and a guest list that's too long for everyone to attend.  So how do you decide?

Some things to keep in mind:

~ You must always invite immediate family.  This means your aunts, uncles, grandparents.  Your cousins are optional.  To keep hurt feelings in check, don't talk about the wedding plans at family gatherings.

~  What about the neighbors?  If you've been close as family, then, yes.  If not, then you'll can leave them off the list.

~  How about family that live far away and you know probably won't attend?  Yep, invite them.  Maybe consider sending a note that says something like "We wanted to share our good news with you!  We'll make sure we send pictures after the wedding!"

~ Should you invite guest's children?  That's up to you.  If you opt for a "no children" policy, then you need to inform parents of this.  If you're worried that they will get upset when they see your flower girl or ring bearer, then they will just have to be upset.  It's your day, and those children are a special part of your wedding party.  A great idea for guests with children: provide a nursery at the church, and have your reception venue provide a small side room as a makeshift "babysitting room".  Provide kid-friendly food (like pizza or hot dogs), a television with a selection of movies, and other things for them to play with.  Parents will love it - they can party and enjoy themselves, knowing they can check on the tots whenever they want, and you won't have a bunch of kiddies running around your reception or making noise during your vows.

~  Dad's business partners:  Not necessarily.  If you've got room, yes - but if you're looking to pare down your guest list, they can be left off.

~ What about those people who asked, albiet innocently "Will I be invited?" when you were first engaged, and, in the excitement of the moment, you said "Yes!"...but now, you have to leave them off the list.  Take them aside, and gently explain that you have to make some radical cuts in the interest of budget.  Hopefully, they are understanding.  But, make sure that you aren't leaving them out if their group of friends or collegues are attending...for example, there's a group at work that eats lunch together every day, and you've invited the entire group - except one.  That is a recipe for hurt feelings.  In this case, scratch the whole group from your list.

A few other tips:
- Allot a certain number of invitations to your groom's parents and your parents.  Save some for yourself.  That way, everyone can decide who they need to invite.
- You can invite your officiant to the reception, but if you don't really know them well, you don't have to.
- If someone is invited to your bridal shower, they MUST be invited to your wedding.  It's happened to me, and I think it's awfully rude to expect a shower gift without an invitation to the wedding.
- If you don't get a respond card returned from a guest, don't hesitate to give them a friendly phone call and ask if they are planning to attend.  You'll need to keep good records for the catering company.

Remember, it's your day, and you should surround yourself with those you love most.  Be gentle and kind - don't go on and on about your wedding around folks that won't be invited.  Class = tact = poise = manners. 

Invitations can be tricky.  Buying invitations can be trickier.  I carry a big line of fabulous invitations at good prices!  Why not look through my books and find something that reflects your big day?  If you mention my blog, I'll give you 15% off your entire order!  Contact me here, or by cell or text at 513-407-7165, or e-mail at innobrations@yahoo.com. 

Five Things To Avoid At Your Reception

It's almost time, and you're planning a reception to remember!  It reflects you and your groom, and it's going to be fabulous!  But just in case, here are 5 things NOT to do at your wedding reception:

1.  Make sure there's not more than an hour of down time between the ceremony and the reception.  It's hard for out-of-town guests to figure out what to do for a couple of hours, and local guests who are all dressed up find it uncomfortable to go home for just a short period.  If you feel that you MUST have more than an hour, note the reception time on the invitation, and be prepared for some guests to grumble.

2.  Keep guests in the loop.  Make sure the DJ explains everything that's going on. For example, have him/her announce the reason your bridal party is using hula hoops (it's a college thing!). Make sure that they clearly know when they are allowed to approach the buffet, when the dancing will begin, and when you're going to cut the cake.  Confusion doesn't make for a fun time!

3.  Be gracious and caring hosts.  The reception is your first party as man and wife, and it is important that you greet each and every guest, even if you don't know some.  Guests at a wedding go out of their way to attend, and they all spend some money on a gift or travel.  So if you decide not to have a receiving line, then make a point to visit each and every table before the night is over.  And don't ask anyone to pay for anything...cash bars are a big "no-no"!

4.  Throw a wedding, not a business conference.  Avoid long speeches, long sideshows, and anything that hints of sponsorship ("flowers provided by Mack's Florist").  Your guests are there to celebrate and have fun!

5.  Make your guest's comfort a priority.  Have elderly guests?  Make sure the facilites are handicap-friendly.  Getting married outside?  Think about letting your guests know that heels are not practical.   Check the restroom facilities - how often are they cleaned?  Nothing is worse than having to use a dirty bathroom.

The basis for this blog is an article in Bride's Magazine, October, 2010, written by Marina Khidekel.

There's about a million details involved with planning a wedding.  Need some help to relieve that stress?  Give me a call, text or e-mail and let's talk!  Our first visit will be on the house, so you need not worry that you'll have to pay to decide if you want to work with a professional planner!  You can reach me at 513-407-7165, or e-mail me at innobrations@yahoo.com.  Happy planning!

Avoiding Reception Seating Nightmares

A big question that gets asked a lot by brides planning their wedding receptions - "Do I need a seating chart?".  The short answer:  absolutely!  But before you freak out, here are some seating chart guidelines that will make planning this part of the reception much easier:

~ Why?  If you're planning a reception for, say, 200 people, then if your tables seat 10 people each, you'll put up 20 tables, right?  Right.  So, if you're not assigning a table, then folks will come in, mill around a bit, then choose a table.  That's all good, but they won't fill every chair - there will be holes here and there.  When the last folks come in the door, it's likely that they won't be able to sit with their group, because there will be empty chairs at random spots.  It's just human nature - think of a movie theatre.  People never sit in the chair next to someone they don't know.  Confused?  Here's an example:
       Mr. and Mrs. Jones and their three children (your next door
       neighbors while growing up) are one of the  last guests to
       arrive at your reception (Mrs. Jones has a headache and
       they stopped along the way for some medicine.)  Upon
       entering, they find that there are no tables with five seats
       together.  So Mr. Jones sits with your dad's business
       associates; Mrs. Jones is seated with the groom's cousins;
       two of the children sit with your friends from college; and the
       last child sits with your Aunt Pearl. 
As you can see, this can all be avoided by assigning a table.  This not only makes your guests more comfortable, it also cuts down on the amount of table linens and such you'll need to rent, because you won't have to provide a couple of extra tables.

~ How?  There's two ways to do it:  assign specific seats, or just specific tables.  You'll want to assign seats if you're giving your guests a choice for their entree ("chicken or fish?") so that the reception staff will know which dish to place at which place setting.  If you're only serving one entree or having a buffet, it's okay to just ask them to sit at a specific table.

~ Where?  Okay, so how do you group the tables?  This can be tricky, but keeping in mind these guidelines will help:  Put people together who have a connection (like co-workers or cousins).  Keep feuding relatives apart.  Keep folks with young children together.  Put older relatives far from the band and/or speakers (they like to chat, and can't hear each other with the music blaring).  It's okay to have two or more tables for immediate family, especially if parents are divorced - don't seat them together, even if they get along great.  It avoids any kind of uncomfort - especially for the other guests at their table who might find it difficult to "say the right things" to people who are divorced.

~ How? First, you'll need a diagram of the floor plan.  You can do this the old fashioned way by drawing, or even using paper plates and sticky notes.  If you're more techically minded, try this website:www.seatingarrangement.com.  It's free!  Oh, and don't forget to add the buffet table, the dance floor, the area or stage for the band or DJ, the restrooms, and the exits.  (Make sure you don't block off any of this!).  Venues usually know the best arrangements for tables, so ask them about it. 

~ When?  You can start after you send out the invitations, but you won't know for sure who's going to be there until the last couple of weeks before the wedding when you get the RSVPs.  And speaking of those RSVPs, don't hesistate to phone those folks you don't get a response from.  Some people get busy and just plain forget, so to insure that you've got it covered, give them a friendly call. 

All in all, it's a lot of work - but it pays off in the end when your guests are comfortable and having a marvelous time at your reception!

Planning a wedding is a lot of work and worry!  But not if you hire the right Wedding Coordinator!  I'd love to help you create and execute the day of your dreams.  Just give me a call or text me at 513-407-7165, and we'll talk about it!  Also, check out my website at http://www.innobrations.com/!

Ideas for Great Music!

Great Music + Terrific DJ = Fabulous Reception!  You've planned, paid and perused in the hopes that your guests will have a terrific time at your reception.  But what to ask the DJ to play?  Here are some ideas for some good music that will get your guests out of their chairs and out on the dance floor:

Let's Get It Started - Black Eyed Peas

Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It) - Beyonce
Just Dance - Lady Gaga
Rock Your Body - Justin Timberlake
Hey Ya! - Outkast
Disturbia - Rihanna
Tubthumber - Chumbawumba
Crazy In Love - Beyonce
Get The Party Started - Pink
That's Not My Name - The Ting Tings

How about some country?  A mix of music appeals to everyone!  Some popular, toe tappin'  Country songs that are often requested at receptions:
All My Ex's Live In Texas - George Strait
Boot Scootin' Boogie - Brooks & Dunn
Chattahoochie - Alan Jackson
Forever & Ever, Amen - Randy Travis

You can't go wrong with some favorite oldies!
Brick House - The Commodores
Devil With The Blue Dress - Mitch Ryder
Hot, Hot, Hot - Buster Poindexter
I'll Be There For You - The Rembrandts
Le Freak - Chic
Louie, Louie - The Kingsman
Love Shack - The B 52's
Old Time Rock & Roll - Bob Seger
Shout - Isley Brothers
Soul Man - Blues Brothers
Twist & Shout - The Beatles
Vogue - Madonna
What I Like About You - The Romantics

Oh, those group dance songs that everyone knows...tacky, but fun!
Chicken Dance - Sorta Crackers Band
Electric Boogie (Slide) - Martha Griffiths
Locomotion - Little Eva
C'mon & Ride the Train - Quad City DJ's

Also, talk to your DJ.  He or she will know what is most popular in your area, and what just doesn't get people moving.  Working closely to select the music with your DJ will insure that he doesn't play a song that you can't stand, either! 

Looking for some help in planning a wedding to remember for a lifetime?  I'm here!  I'll do as little or as much as you'd like, and I'll fit into your budget - and I'll help you make that budget, one you can stick to!  Contact me through this blog, or call or text me at 513-407-7165.  Yay for your big day!!

Walking Down The Aisle 101

It's finally here!  The Big Day!  With all the planning, sampling, trying on, and everything else, you probably haven't thought about your actual walk down the aisle.  But think about this:  You'll be walking on a carpet or grass, in heels, in a gown, holding a bouquet.  It could be tricker than you think!  So here are some great tips for walking down the aisle with class and grace:

Before you walk in:
Take a few deep breaths to relax.  Breath deep, in through your nose and out through your mouth. This will relax your entire body.  Don't worry about straightening your dress or adjusting your veil - your wedding planner or the event coordinator will make sure you look fabulous!  If you don't have a planner or coordinator, consider hiring one for the day ("Day-Of Services") or asking a friend who is not in your wedding party to be there for the last minute adjustments.

Take those first steps:
Use your dad or escort as a crutch, or just to steady you.  Don't grab his arm; just place your hand in the crook of his elbow. 
Hold your flowers at "belly button" level - don't cover that gorgeous gown with your bouquet!  This is the best position to make your arms look the thinnest; holding it any higher makes you look tense - the idea is to look like it's the most natural thing in the world to carry a bouquet, so don't hold it with an iron grip.   
Keep pace with the music, but don't do that "step-pause-step-pause" rhythm that movie brides use.  Just walk a beat slower than you usually do.  There's no need to rush - like my father told me at my wedding, "Let's take it slow. We only get to do this once!"

You're on your way to the altar:
Remember to look around and smile!  The photographer will be snapping away, and you're the star - let your guests know that you're happy and excited by looking around and smiling at them! 
If you cry, it's okay - keep a lovely handkerchief in your hand and carefully dab.  But if you're really bawling, try to refocus.  Look at your groom - lots of brides find themselves calmed by his gaze; or try to divert your thoughts by looking at something concrete...like your bouquet, or the antics of the ringbearer, or the guests.  Waterproof mascara is a good idea if you think you're going to cry!

When you reach your groom:
Smile at him, and smile at your father.  You'll know what to do from there, because your officiant will let you know what comes next and you've practiced it at the rehearsal.  Also, you'll have worked out how to pass your bouquet, pass the rings, and any other physical logistics at the rehearsal, so it's a good idea to take some kind of a bouquet with you then.  Lots of brides use one that is made up of the bows from their bridal showers.

You'll be calmer on your wedding day if you practice at the rehearsal.  Go over it until you're comfortable!

ABOUT THOSE FABULOUS SHOES...
New shoes, especially dress heels (even low heels) can be slippery and uncomfortable.  The best way to avoid slipping and falling, as well as blisters and pain, is to break them in a week before the wedding.  My source recommends scuffing the bottoms on a sidewalk or sandpaper so the bottoms lose their slippery newness.  Then wear them around the house for a few days, so the material and your feet can get aquainted.  It's also a good idea to wear shoes with the same heel height to the rehearsal so you get an idea of what it will be like during the ceremony.

So, you don't need a planner - but what about help on the big day?  I offer Day-Of Services to make your wedding day run smoothly.  I'll be there at the rehearsal, then I'll be there two hours before the start of the ceremony until you and your new husband are introduced at the reception.  It's an invaluable service, and if you'd like that for yourself, don't hesistate to give me a call or text at 513-407-7165 - or just simply comment on this post!  Happy Wedding!

Tips for a Fantastic Rehearsal Dinner!

The Rehearsal Dinner is a time for the wedding party and both families to get aquainted before the wedding.  I've found that it is a wonderful, pressure-free time to celebrate and enjoy those closest to you.  As with just about everything else involved in a wedding, there are traditions that continue, and trends that have gone by the wayside.  Here's some tips and guidelines to make your Rehearsal Dinner a night to remember!

When should it happen?  Typically, when a wedding is on a Saturday, the rehearsal is usually on late Friday afternoon or early evening.  When it's all done, everyone heads over to the dinner for the rest of the evening. 
But if your wedding is on a Friday or a Sunday, the timetable might be different; your Rehearsal Dinner might actually be a Rehearsal Breakfast or Lunch.  It's all okay!  The best way to determine the time is to talk to your officiant, and they will let you know when you'll have the rehearsal.  Then just plan from there.

Where should I have it?  That depends on what you're most comfortable with.  It can be in an elegant restaurant, or a barbeque in the back yard.  It doesn't really matter, as long as there is food served, and everyone gets to know one another.

Who pays for it?  Traditionally, the groom's family paid for the rehearsal dinner, but in today's "anything goes" weddings, that's not always the case.  I've heard of the bride's parents picking up the tab; the grandparents of the groom;  or even the bride and groom themselves.

What happens at a rehearsal dinner?  There are often toasts made, thank you speeches, and lots of love.  But what you do at your dinner is entirely up to you.  It's a great time to present your attendants with their gifts, and it's also a wonderful time to express your graditude to everyone who is playing such an important role in your big day.

Who should I invite?  All of your wedding party, your parents, his parents, and any grandparents are a must.  You can also invite out of town guests if you're getting married in your hometown.  A good rule of thumb is that everyone in your wedding that you would purchase a bouquet, boutierre or corsage for should be at your rehearsal dinner.

Should I send invitations?  That's entirely up to you.  If you do, you don't have to get as fancy as your wedding invitations - just print something on the computer or buy some blank cards and fill them in.  It's always a good idea to keep the lines of communication going, so sending an invite with the name and address of the ceremony site, the time and date of the rehearsal and dinner, and the dinner location (again, with address!) will keep everyone in the loop.  It's also okay to e-mail or text it, but I'd recommend that you ask them to confirm with you that they got the information (by responding to the e-mail or text).

What about alcohol?  If you want to serve it, by all means, do.  If you have some heavy drinkers attending, you may want to consider limiting the amount of alcohol you have available, so no one is feeling "under the weather" for the wedding the next day.

Anything else?  It's a good idea to remind everyone what time and where they should be on the big day.  Good and early is best - that way, if one of those unexpected problems pops up (like a traffic jam, a flat tire, etc.), there's still time to work around it.

And, as always, be kind and gracious.  Sure, you'll be nervous and excited, and that will make it easy to snap or say things you don't mean, so be extra cautious with your words, don't have too much to drink, and enjoy your time with those folks that you love the best!

Planning a wedding is tricky!  There's lots of ways to save money and avoid hassles!  Give me a call or text and let's talk all about your wedding: 513-407-7165.

Ideas for a One-Of-A-Kind Bachelorette Party!

The idea of a Bachelorette Party is to have a good time before the big day, so try not to focus on the wedding, let go, and enjoy yourself!  But if you think it's just gross to see men in thongs, or if you aren't the type that likes to hit the bars and get smashed, or if you just aren't comfortable with all the sexual innuendo made public...you're not alone!  Then again, if you ARE interested in going to a bar and letting it rip, make sure you check out some tips further down the blog.

 Here's some ideas for the girls that just want to have fun - with no strippers, alcohol, or embarassment:

Private Spa Party:  Have some quality girl time with manicures, pedicures and massages. 

Private Dance Lessons:  Get your gals all ready to get down at your reception.

Amusement Park:  Scream your lungs out on the coasters and relieve some stress!

Private Photo Session:  Have some fun photos taken of you and your girls before you're all glammed up for the big day!

The Theatre or Movie:  Get dressed up, go to the theatre or movie, and have a wonderful dinner after!

Slumber Party:  Re-visit your teen years with chick flicks, junk food, jammies, and, of course, smores!

Bowling:  Get some prizes for the best bowler, worst bowler, and just have a ball!

Camping:  If you love roughing it, then this could be the time of your lives - think campfires, roasting marshmallows, telling scary stories!

Road Trip:  Find a charming Bed & Breakfast that's not too far away and make an night of it!

Tea Party:  There just may be a Tea Parlor in your area which offers High Tea.  You can wear hats and boas!

If you're going to make it a wild night with a stripper or two, lots of cocktails, here's a few tips for you:

Schedule your party at least a week before your wedding.  You don't want to spend all the time and money preparing your dream day, then spend it hung over and sick. (This goes for guys, too!) Also, lack of sleep will probably give you bags under your eyes, and you certainly won't glow in your photos!   

Don't do anything illegal.  Make sure all your girls have their ID's and are over 21. 

Have a Designated Driver.  Or, hire a limo.  A car accident would not only put a damper on your wedding celebration, it could have serious consequences, including death.

Ask one of your girls to keep an eye on the amount you're drinking.  Don't over do it...have enough to have fun, but not enough to get obnoxious or embarassing.

All in all, have fun and make it a night to remember - but be safe!!

If you're in the Cincinnati area and would like to further explore some of these ideas, contact me and I'll recommend some theatres, Bed & Breakfasts, Tea Parlors and Spa places that you'll just love.  You can reach me via text or phone at 513-407-7165, or by e-mail at innobations@yahoo.com.  Happy Celebrating!

Changing Your Name

Once you're married, there is a lot of paperwork required to change your name legally.  Not to worry!  Once you get your marriage license, the process usually goes quite easily.

One tip, though - if you travel on your honeymoon, you'll need to make reservations in your MAIDEN name - especially if you're traveling out of the country.  You won't have time to change your passport before you leave, and you'll need it!

Below is a list of items that you'll need to remember to change once you get the ball rolling:

• Social Security Card
• Driver's License
• Bank Accounts (Savings, Checking, etc.)
• Investment Accounts
• Credit Cards
• Auto Insurance
• Auto Registration
• Memberships (like your health club)
• Health Insurance
• 401K
• Work
• Property Titles
• Mortgages
• Voter Registration Card
• Passport
• Your Will
• Insurance Policies
• Medical & Dental Records

Every person is different, so use this list as a base.  You may have to change your name other places that are not listed here.

If you're moving, don't forget to change your address at the Post Office!

It's a good idea to order an extra copy or two of your marriage license, because some things on the list above will require an original certified copy to change your name.

Best wishes for a happy wedding and a fabulous new life!

Changing your life and name can be stressful.  Don't add to it by worrying about your wedding!  I can help you make your big day incredible and much less stressful by helping with the planning and implementing of your wedding.  I can do as little or a much as you need, and my services will fit into your budget.  Just shoot me a text or give me a call at 513-407-7165 - or if you want some indirect communication, respond to this post, check out my website at http://www.innobrations.com/, or e-mail me at innobrations@yahoo.com.  I'd love to talk all about your wedding!

Paperwork! What You Need To Know About Marriage Licenses

What's the most important part of a wedding?  The gown?  The food?  The music?  The church?  The reception?  Nope to all!  Believe it or not, it's the marriage license.  While a wedding is often a spiritual binding of two people, it's also a legal binding as well.  That's why it is really important that you make sure you've got everything taken care of before the big day.

The place to start is the place where you're getting married.  You'll need a license from that state or county - or country, if it's a destination wedding.  You can find that information online if you do some checking by looking up the government center of where you're getting hitched.  If you are getting married in the United States, you'll want to find a town hall, probate court, or city clerk's office in the town where you're getting wed.

Sometimes, you'll have to honor a waiting period before your license is valid.  These vary by state.  It's intended to prevent impulsive weddings (they don't require this in Nevada, thus Britney Spears' first quickie marriage!).  You may have to wait several days after you apply, or maybe a few days after you receive it.

What about a blood test?  When I married in Michigan in 1984, we were required to have that.  Yuck.  But now, only four states require blood tests: Connecticut, Indiana, Mississippi and Montana, and also Washington, DC.  Why, you ask?  It's a hold over from the last century when there was syphilis but not penicillin.

Make sure you're aware that your license has a time limit.  In Clermont County, Ohio (where I live) the license is good for 60 days.  So, getting it too soon won't work - you'll have to time it right.  This isn't really a big problem if you live close to where your wedding will be, but if you're traveling to wed, you'll want to make sure you've got that covered.

Most of the time, BOTH of you have to be present in person to apply for a marriage license.  You'll want to take along your ID.  Check with the issuing office to see if they require anything else.   They'll ask you for your parent's names (this means birth or legally adopted parents, not step parents) and they will want your mother's maiden name.  It's a good idea to confirm spelling for difficult names before you arrive at the license window and have to make a hasty call to your mom!

If you've been divorced, you'll be required to show the divorce decree before you will be allowed to get a license - this applies to both of you.

Once you've said your vows, your officiant (the minister, pastor, or just the guy/gal that married you) will send the signed license to the proper authority.  The city or state will then issue a marriage certificate and send it to you.  Order extras if you're changing your name - you'll need to produce originals for various agencies.

I'm located in Cincinnati, so if you're in Cincinnati as well, here are the links to local sites that describe what you'll need for your marriage license:
Clermont County, Ohio - http://probatejuvenile.clermontcountyohio.gov/MarriageLicense.aspx
Hamilton County, Ohio - http://www.probatect.org/marriagelicenses/index.htm
Brown County, Ohio - http://www.browncountyohio.gov/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=12&Itemid=14

Getting married in Kentucky?  This link is a great way to find out what you need and also lists the contact information for every county in the Commonwealth:  http://www.weddingvendors.com/marriage-license-laws/united-states/kentucky/

Some information for this blog is from Bride's Magazine, April, 2011

Next time on this blog site..."Changing Your Name - A List".

Need some help with the rest of the wedding?  Advice?  Ideas?  The contact info for some great vendors?  Just give me a call or shoot me a text at 513-407-7165.  And check out my website at wwww.innobrations.com.  And don't panic - we'll work together to make it the best day of your life!

Where Should I Go To Buy My Wedding Gown?

Buying a wedding gown is a big deal.  There are a bunch of choices out there as to where to buy the dress of your dreams, and that could be confusing.  So before you hit the stores, read about each type of bridal retailers and then you'll be better able to decide what is best for you.

LOCAL BRIDAL BOUTIQUES:   They are the locally owned shop that is usually near your neighborhood.  While they often have fewer dresses to try on, they can provide a personal touch and are on top of what brides in your area are wearing.  If you let them know your florist, venue, etc, they will be familiar with it and this gives them a sense of your style.

DESTINATION SALONS:  These are the places girls travel from all over to shop at, like Klienfeld's in New York (ever see "Say Yes To The Dress"?).  They are massive, and they offer a well-trained staff as well as lots of designer dresses.  Sometimes, the designers are even on site!  If you decide to travel to choose a gown, make sure you book your appointment early, since these shops are very popular. 

MASS-MARKET RETAILERS:  These are the David's Bridal-type shops.  Because they can mass-produce gowns, the prices are often very reasonable.  They also carry gowns in your size, which are not samples.  This is good for anyone who is not a size 8-10 (the usual sample size).  They also have some great sales, so if your budget is thin, this might be a good place to look for your gown.

DEPARTMENT STORES:  Nordstrom, Lord & Taylor, Macy's, even JCPenney have a bridal dress selection.  The advantage to these stores is that you shop in a familiar surrounding, and they have folks who work there that are versed in both ready-to-wear and bridal.  But before you rush out to your local department store, call and find out if they have a bridal department, so you don't waste a trip!

DESIGNER-OWNED BOUTIQUES:  If you are interested in a specific designer, this might be the route for you.  They have luxurious studios and personalized service.  But be prepared to pay a high price for a gown from one of these studios, but they do have sample sales on occasion!

ONLINE RETAILERS:  Purchasing a dress that is delivered right to your front door, and sometimes at a really inexpensive price sounds like a dream come true!  But then again, think carefully; avoid any company that's not an authorized dealer, and remember you won't get to try it on or check it over before you buy it.  Also, finding someone to alter it might be tricky, since many tailors aren't experienced in altering gowns.  But if you're interested in a simple gown, or even a vintage gown, you might be able to find your dream online!

LOCAL DRESSMAKERS:  Ah, a custom dress!  You bring in your ideas, pictures and photos, and you talk with the dressmaker who works up a dress just for you!  It's great, but beware:  you could be disappointed.  Make sure your dressmaker has experience making wedding gowns and check her references.  It's not a bad idea to ask to see samples of her work, too. 

So take some time to make some decisions before you shop.  Some things to consider:
~ Is having a "one-of-a-kind" gown important to you?  Then consider a designer studio or a dressmaker.
~ Do you really, really want a designer gown?  Then you'll want to try either a designer studio or a destination salon.
~ Is your budget very tight, and you're looking to save money?  Then you may want to check out a mass-retailer or shop online.
~ Do you dread looking in bridal shops?  Then shopping at a department store may be for you.
~ Is it important for you to have personal service and want to stay close to home?  Then you'll probably want to shop at a local boutique.

And one last tip, from Bride's Magazine:  If you can swing it, shop on a weekday.  Because the staff won't be so busy, the rhythm of the shop will be calmer, and you'll probably get much more personal attention.

Some information for this blog was taken from Bride's Magazine, February, 2011.


Shopping for a gown is just one component of a fabulous wedding!  If you want a wonderful day without the worry, give me a call or text at 513-407-7165.  If you've got it under control but just want someone there on the big day to keep things running smoothly, I'd love to help!  You can comment on this post, text or call, or e-mail at innobrations@yahoo.com. 

NEXT TIME:  What every bride should know about marriage licenses and changing her name.

Why Do Wedding Gowns Cost So Gosh Darn Much?

So, you're ready to buy what is probably the most expensive garment you'll ever buy.  They certainly cost much more than a street dress off the rack at a department store, or your most pricey prom dress!  But why do they cost so much?

There is no quick, simple answer, so let's just chat about it!

Department store dresses (like something you'd get at JCPenney or Kohl's) are made by the thousands.  And we all know that when anything is made in bulk, the price goes down.  Also, with just a change of fabric, they can use virtually the same pattern and create a completely different look.  Not so with a wedding gown; while there are many, many shades of white, designers are pretty much stuck with one color.  This means that designers have to be very creative and the dresses are very complex.  This requires more pattern pieces, more sewing, etc - and this makes the price go up.

And then there are all the components.  Many times, different items come from different parts of the world; for example, the lace may come from Europe, the pearls from Mexico, etc.  It takes time, effort and postage to gather all these wonderful things before the actual dress construction can begin.  This also drives up the price.

And when you order your gown, the bridal salon will order it from the manufacturer; and it will be made at that time.  Gowns are expensive and time consuming to make, and it's better for the manufacturer to make them on an "as needed" basis, rather than have racks of gowns left over after they go out of style.  And speaking of style, it changes quite quickly.  That means that manufacturers have to keep on top of trends, and that adds to the cost, too.

All of this pertains to most gowns - but what about those high end designers like Monique Lillhuier and Vera Wang?  Why do those cost so much?  Well, they are top designers, so they use the top of the line components in their gowns.  And it's a simple fact that you're paying extra for their name.  If a designer dress is important to you, then you will probably pay more for it.

Finally, let's toss in all those little added costs that just seem incidental:  some manufacturers send the dress out of the country to be beaded  (more $); the final check at the manufacturer: steaming, packing, cleaning (more $); the cost of shipping to your bridal shop (more $);  the pressing, packing and paperwork at the salon (more $), and the profit that the bridal salon will make on the gown (more $).  With the exception of sending the dress out for details like beading, you can expect to pay for these things anytime you purchase a garment, be it a wedding gown or a sweater.  But with a wedding gown, the pressing and steaming is more work (if you've got an 8-foot train like I did, that's a lot of steam!), and keep in mind it is a specialized garment.

So, if you're looking to save money on a wedding gown, there's not a lot of options, but there are a few.  Here's a couple of tips:
~ Be open.  You can't be really picky if you're looking for a bargain.
~ Ask the bridal salon salesperson to show you things on sale.  They may have something you just love!
~ Huge retailers like David's Bridal often have $99 sales.  Keep in mind these are gowns that are on their way out of style, are store samples, or have been returned or ordered wrong.  Again, keep an open mind.
~ Consider wearing someone eles's gown.  While most brides want their own dress, what about Grandma's or Great Aunt Pearl's gown?  Just keep in mind that if it's in bad shape, it may cost more to have it altered and repaired than it may cost to purchase your own gown.
~ Have someone make it for you. Remember, you don't get to try it on until it's almost finished, and it may not be the most flattering once it's made.  Secondly, choose a professional seamstress, and call her former clients for references.  I once attended a wedding where the bride's aunt made her gown...and it looked like it.  Her bridesmaids outshined her.  Poor thing!

I believe one of the most important tip I can give anyone when purchasing a bridal gown is simple - set a dollar amount that you don't want to go over and stick with it.  Don't try on dresses that are out of your price range, or you'll find one that you can't have, and everything you can afford will seem like it's second rate.

Some information in this blog was taken from Bride's Magazine, February, 2011.

Next time on this blog - "Where Should You Buy Your Dress?"

For more important information on purchasing a wedding gown, finding a good photographer, or some help on your wedding day, give me a call or text at 513-407-7165.  I offer free consultations, and I can fit in any budget!!  Check out my website, too - www.innobrations.com

Shopping for a Wedding Gown? You'll want to read this!

When a little girl dreams of her wedding, she usually thinks about a beautiful gown that makes her feel like a princess.  Even brides-to-be that usually shun dresses opt for a gown for the big day.   A wedding gown is usually a once-in-a-lifetime purchase, and because it's not something that's bought every day, most people don't know that much about it.  In light of that, here's some helpful information for those brides looking for their special dress:

~ Think about what you'd like before you hit the stores.  What kind of neckline do you like?  What about the length?  Do you prefer a ball gown (a full skirt) or a more fitted style?  How long would you like your train?

~ Just because it looks fabulous in a magazine doesn't mean it looks fabulous on you.  Brides come in every size and shape.  Models are tall and very thin, and fashion photography is sometimes airbrushed.  Be realistic about your expectations, but try that dream gown on anyway...it might just be the one!

~  Limit yourself to three stores.  If you try on hundreds of dresses, you'll just wind up more confused than ever.  Keeping to just three stores will let you see a variety of designers and salespeople without being overwhelmed.

~ Take just your mom and maybe a friend.  Don't take a whole group - everyone has a different opinion and there is bound to be some who like the gown you love, and those who don't.  Choose your dress, then take everyone to see it at your fittings.  That way, you'll feel the love without the opinions!

~ Don't try on a gown that's out of your price range.  It's too emotionally painful to fall in love with a dress that you just plain can't have.  Let the salesperson know your price limits before you even look at a gown.  Keep in mind that embellishments like lace and pearls drive up the price.  You may want to consider something plainer that drapes lovely and doesn't need all the bells and whistles.

~ Be aware that the salesperson will be in the dressing room with you.  Bridal salons have to purchase the samples that they have in stock, so they will want to help you into the gown to avoid damage to the dress.  At some point, they will want to sell it, so they want to keep it in good shape.  Not only that, getting in a gown usually requires some help.  Don't get creeped out - they help brides out on dresses every day.

~  Listen to the salesperson!  They see hundreds of brides, and they often can recommend things that you maybe didn't think of or didn't consider.  They WANT to sell you a dress - they will help you in any way they can!

~  If the salesperson makes you uncomfortable, you don't have to work with them.  Ask for another salesperson, or shop at another store.

~  Bring the right stuff to the shop.  Wear nice but modest underwear (can you imagine being a salesperson having to look at a thong?  Ick!), a strapless bra, and a shoe with the heel height you prefer.  Make sure you shave both your armpits and your legs, that way you won't be embarassed.  If you're thinking of wearing your hair up, a barette or clip would be great to have on hand.  A good idea is to call ahead and ask if you are allowed to take photos of the dresses you like - some shops are okay with it, some are not.  It's best to find out ahead of time.

~  If you're a plus sized bride, don't fret.  There are shops that cater to larger sizes, and most shops have clips and such to help you try on the dress you like, even if it's a size or two too small.  Don't limit yourself because of size - be open to everything!

~ Avoid a spontaneous decision.  Salespeople often work on commission, so they'll want to close the sale that day.  It's a good idea, even if it's THE dress, to think about it overnight, and talk about it with your mom.  Then, when you put down the non-refundable down payment, you'll be confident that you made the right choice!

Next time, at this blog..."Why On Earth Are Wedding Dresses So Gosh Darn Expensive?"

There's more to a wedding than just a dress.  If you need some guidance and help jumping the hoops of planning an unforgettable wedding, please give me a call or send me a text at 513-407-7165.  I can help you as much or as little as you like!  You can also respond to this post, or send me an e-mail at innobrations@yahoo.com.   I'd love to chat!

Information based on an article in Bride's Magazine, February, 2011

Stressed out about your wedding? Not to worry! Here comes the calvary!

Congratulations!  You're engaged!  And you've happily told family & friends!  Then suddenly, it hits you...I HAVE TO PLAN A WEDDING!  You don't know where to start, so you go to the store and buy every wedding magazine on the rack.  Now you're overwhelmed!  You go to GOOGLE, and about a million sites pop up...ah!  You're working - your fiance is working - your mom is busy....what do you do?!?!

Well, first of all, take a deep breath.  Secondly, resist the urge to put planning off until you feel more in control. If you do that, then you lose valuable time.  Planning a wedding doesn't have to be stressful!  

If this is you, then consider hiring a wedding planner.  If you're in the Cincinnati, Ohio area, give me a call, or text me, or e-mail me, or simply comment on this post.  Here's what I do for my brides, and what I offer:

~ First, we'll chat at your free consultation.  (Yep, I said FREE!).  I think it's important for us to get to know one another, and see if we want to work together.  It's not going to be beneficial to you if you have a wedding planner that you don't totally trust or like.  At that first meeting, we'll talk about you, your dreams, your big day, your fiance, your mother, your life...and we'll see where it takes us!

~ When we decide to proceed, we'll work up a budget together.  A budget is VERY important - you don't want to begin your new marriage saddled with debt from your wedding.  Because I know experts in the business, I will guide you to the best services and goods that are offered, and they will be budget-friendly!

~ And speaking of budgets - not to worry!  My fees will fit in that budget.  Some wedding planners charge a percentage of the total cost of the wedding - I don't do that.  Some wedding planners sell you packages - I don't do that, because you might not need all that a set package contains.  Why pay for something you don't use?  I structure my fees individually for each bride, based on what she needs.  It's that simple.

~ I can do what you need!  If you need help planning the whole wedding from stem to stern, I can do that.  And I'm not David Tutera - he's great, but I'm not going to surprise you like he does his brides on his TV show.  We'll work TOGETHER so that your day is YOUR day, and you'll make the choices.  I'll just come up with ideas to present to you.  I'm great with ideas!

~ Let's say you've got this under control.  You've planned the whole thing, and it's terrific.  But what about the day of the wedding?  Who is going to make sure that the t's are crossed and the i's are dotted?  The people you love and trust most are probably part of your wedding party.  I'd be delighted to come just the day of the wedding.  I usually come two hours before the ceremony, help make sure everything behind the scenes is going smoothly, and I stay until you and your new husband are introduced at the reception.  It's a great service, and I wish I had that on my wedding day!

~ And guess what?  I don't just plan and help out at weddings.  I sew and create, too.  That's why my business is called "Innobrations" - it's a mix of "innovative" and "celebrations".  Want a unique ring bearer pillow?  Let's design it and I'll make it!  Want a veil that is lovely and want to save a little money?  I can make that, too!  I also sell  invitations - quality invitations from (C)Carlson Craft (R) , that I have samples of so that you can actually touch them and see them before you buy. 

Why don't you go ahead and check out my website?  You can find it at http://www.innobrations.com/. 

I hope you get in touch with me today!!  I'd love to help you plan your big day without all the stress and anxiety!

You can text me or call me at 513-407-7165!

The Royal Wedding - Just Who Are These People?



Prince William and Catherine Middleton



I'll admit it - I'm a royalty buff as well as a lover of weddings.  So the Royal Wedding on April 29th is a big "red-letter" day on my calendar!  If you haven't read a bunch of books on royalty, then you may be confused.  Just who is William?  How does he fit in with all those British royals?  Why is this such a big deal?

Well, it's a big deal because William is second in direct line for the British Throne.  He's a direct descendant of Queen Victoria, and the British throne is one of the strongest in the world.
Here's a bit of his family tree: 



Prince Charles & Princess Diana
June 21, 1981



Prince William's parents are Prince Charles, the Prince of Wales, and the late Princess Diana.  Charles is the next in line to the throne.  In royal circles, Diana was considered a commoner, even though she was British nobility (remember her being known as "Lady Diana" before her marriage?).  She was only 19 years old when she and Charles were married in June of 1981 at St. Paul's Cathedral in London.  The marriage ended in divorce in 1996, and Diana was killed in a car accident in 1997.  Prince William has one younger brother, Prince Harry.  Prince Charles remarried in 2005 to his long time mistress, Camilla Parker-Bowles, who became the Duchess of Cornwall upon her marriage.

  

On his engagement to Kate Middleton, Prince William presented her with the diamond and sapphire engagement ring that his father presented to his mother.  While the ring officially was inherited by Prince William's brother, Prince Harry, it's been reported that Harry offered the ring to William as a way of including their mother in the wedding.



Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, 1947

 Charles' parents (William's grandparents) are Her Majesty, Elizabeth the Second, Queen of England, and Prince Phillip, Duke of Edinburgh.  They were married in post-World War II London in November, 1947.  At the time, Britian was recovering from the war, and many girls sent the then-Princess clothing ration coupons so that she could purchase the fabric for her wedding gown.  This marriage produced four children: Charles, Anne, Andrew and Edward.  



Princess Anne & Mark Phillips, 1973

 Anne, the Princess Royal, married Captian Mark Phillips in 1973.  They had two children, Peter and Zara.  Anne and Mark divorced in 1992, and later that year, she married Timothy Laurence.  



Prince Andrew & Sarah Ferguson, 1986







Prince Andrew, the Duke of York,  married Sarah "Fergie" Ferguson in 1986.  They had two daughters, Beatrice and Eugenie, before their divorce in 1996.





Prince Edward & Sophie Rhys-Jones, 1999



Prince Edward, the Earl of Wessex, is married to the former Sophie Rhys-Jones.  They wed in 1999, and have two children, Louise and James.



Westminster Abbey


Prince William's wedding will take place on Friday, April 29 at 11:00am in Westminster Abbey, the same church that his grandparents were wed in 1947.  Five thousand invitations were mailed by the Queen, and all of the British Subjects will have the day off to celebrate.  In the United States, the wedding will air on television at 6:00am, and while I'm not sure of which channels will be carrying it, that information shouldn't be too hard to find as the date gets closer. 

Some details are coming to light, and ones that I've heard include that while the bride has declined to ride to her wedding in the traditional gold and glass coach, the newlyweds will be departing Westminster Abbey in a horse-drawn carriage.  The couple has also asked for charitable donations to be made in their name rather than wedding gifts.  These are both unprecidented in royal weddings, but then again, this is a most modern couple, who appear to respect and love one another.

Royal Weddings are a big deal in the United Kingdom.  They are percieved as a way to unite the people as well as show the world the splendor of their Realm.  The wedding of Prince William to Catherine Middleton should be a grand reflection of Great Britian, a merging of old-world royal protocol, pomp & circumstance, and will also have a bit of modernity tossed in.  I can't wait!

Some Really Strange Places to Tie That Knot

Looking for something different for your wedding?  Choosing an unusual location might be the best way to make your wedding one that everyone will talk about for a long time!  I did a little online research, and came up with some of the most bizarre places that people choose to say their vows:

~ Bungee Jumping:  Talk about taking the plunge, off of a bridge!  This isn't for the faint of heart, and besides, it certainly would ruin your dress and hairdo!

~ McDonald's or Taco Bell:  Couples love to incorporate their "story" into their wedding.  A couple met while working at Taco Bell, and decided to have their wedding there.  They didn't wait until the restaurant was closed, either...just had their t-shirt wearing officiant marry them at one of the tables while the rest of the patrons looked on.  I wonder if they tossed cheese instead of rice.

~ Clowning Around:  A couple that enjoyed spending time as clowns got married in their make up.  Well, I guess that cuts down on the cost of formal wear, stylists and make up people!

~ Wing Walking:  A very daring couple got married while riding on the top wing of a biplane as it flew.  I bet the hardest part of planning this wedding was finding an officiant who wasn't afraid to take a ride.

~ Hot Rod Wedding: Rev. Daniel Best has a reconditioned 1942 Edition American LaFrance Fire Engine.  It's got a chapel on board, with a steeple and stained-glass windows.  There's room for the essentials of a wedding:  Bride, Groom, Best Man, Maid of Honor, Officiant.  Rev. Best charges $200 per hour and $2 per mile, and he and his rolling church are located in Shelbyville, Illinois.

~ Haunted House or Cemetery:  Okay, so the bride and groom are goth, and are interested in a creepy wedding.  Why not a cemetery?  There's lots of parking, and no traffic issues - unless, of course, you're lucky enough to have a funeral going on at the same time.  Or, if you're worried about the weather, what about a haunted house, or better yet, a funeral home?  If some of the guests aren't still among the living, you won't have to include them in the number you give to the caterer.

~ Underwater:  Do you love to swim?  Is the beach not close enough to the water for you?  Take a scuba class and get hitched under the waves.  What a great story to tell your future grandchildren!

~ Nudist wedding:  No worries for this one - no choosing gowns, tuxes, shoes, or foundation garments.  But you exchange that freedom for the fear of sunburn, and never being able to display your wedding photo in polite company - that, and the sight of your grandparents au natural.

~ Garbage Dump:  Evidently, someone thought that putting a red carpet through a dump constitutes a lovely and meaningful union of two who love each other.  Well, I guess there's no where to go but up from there when you begin your life together in a pile of garbage!

~ Prison:  True love happens all the time - even to people who live behind bars. The peneteniary isn't the lovliest of settings, the attenants are armed, and besides, the spouse that isn't incarcerated  gets to spend an extended honeymoon alone.

~ Top of Mt. Everest:  What a view! Celebrating the highest love on the highest mountain top in the world! Only one couple made it so far, but aside from the pesky details like the dangerous climb (don't mind the remains of those who didn't make it on the way up), having to add a shirpa into your budget, and that annoying lack of oxygen at this height, a wedding at the summit would be one to remember!
If you want some help planning a great wedding that's not so bizarre, give me a shout out and we'll get together and talk about it.  You can text me, call me (513-407-7165) or e-mail me (innobrations@yahoo.com).  I'd love to help you make your day the best ever!

What if SOMETHING goes WRONG? Part 2 of my unofficial poll

In case you missed it, a month or so ago I polled a whole bunch of my friends and family and asked them to answer three questions about their weddings.  Those polled were all women, most of whom have been married for a while, and have the luxury of looking back on their wedding day and giving me some great insight!

Those three questions were:
1.  What was the favorite part of your wedding day?
2.  What went wrong on your wedding day?
3.  What would you change?

I have blogged about number one, so if you missed it, just scroll down and you'll find it!  Today, I'm going to address question number two:  "What went wrong on your wedding day?"

I found it interesting that only three of thirty responses said "Nothing.  It was perfect."  I tabulated all of what the rest of these brides said went wrong, and divided those results into "Uncontrollable by the bride" and "Controllable by the bride".  I only had one clear instance of what the bride considered controllable, which was that she wished that she had spent more time getting to know her future in-laws (she got married quite quickly after she met her groom, and I'm happy to report that they have been married for around 40 years!).  A bad situation was mentioned a couple of times, and in those instances, there probably wasn't much that the bride could do about it, no matter how much communication there was beforehand. 

Most of the "what went wrongs" were uncontrollable.  The weather was mentioned ("It was too hot and the air conditioning broke at the reception"; "it rained on our outdoor reception"; "there was a huge storm"), as well as a few instances of the bride being sick.  The rest were things that no bride could plan for or expect, such as the bride whose husband's cousin and his bride showed up at HER wedding reception in their wedding attire - now, that's a real slap in the face...another bride at your reception!  There was the bride who was driving around town with her groom and the car overheated, leaving the wedding party to figure out how to get help in the days before cell phones.  Then there is the bride whose father almost wore his navy blue dress pants instead of his black tuxedo pants (the sharp sister of the bride caught it before they got to the church), the bride whose mother-in-law to be had to have gall bladder surgery a week before the wedding, the bride who had to dig through the trash because the marriage license got lost (they never did find it!), and the bride who had a centerpiece go up in flames at her reception!

What does this tell me?  Well, first of all, the odds are against anyone having a "perfect" day.  Judging by the responses I got, only 10% of brides have nothing go wrong at their weddings. So, a wise bride should expect some little things to go wrong, and begin the day with the mindset of "if it goes wrong, oh well!  It's not the end of the world!".  But then again, complete planning is the key to keeping many problems at bay. For example, one bride had a DJ whose equipment didn't work.  This may have been avoided by asking the right questions when booking the DJ.  At my wedding, I figured three hours for the photographer would be plenty.  It wasn't.  He left when time was up, and there are a lot of things I wish I had photos of, including the bouquet toss, the garter toss, and a photo of me kissing my groom.

This is where it pays to hire a wedding planner.  No one is a professional bride, and a wedding planner can steer you to the vendors that can be trusted and provide you with the right questions to ask.  For example, wedding planner can't change the weather, but can encourage you to plan for inclement weather and help you to develop that plan.  A wedding planner can't prevent you from being sick, but can hold your tissues and help to touch up your makeup to make sure you don't look too ill in your photos.  

If you're planning a wedding and want to talk about it, I offer free consultations!  Just e-mail me (innobrations@yahoo.com), call or text me (513-407-7165).  I'd be delighted to help you minimize the "wrongs" and make your day a wonderful day to remember!