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Inspiration + Events
How To Brand Your Wedding
Your wedding brand is the overall look and feel of your special day. Here are the steps to consider when choosing the brand you want for your wedding:
1. What represents you as a couple?
This can be applied to either the general aesthetic or specific elements such as flowers, colors, etc. As a couple, are you more romantic? Rustic? Modern? Inspiration boards can be helpful in determining this.
2. What colors do you love or are important to you?
This might simply be your favorite color, or you can let the season you’re getting married in determine these as well, but having a color palette and a selected metallic or texture/pattern is a step in the right direction of branding.
3. Select fonts or create custom logo
Fonts and logos can be used throughout the entire process, from save-the-dates all the way up to wedding day escort cards and signs. Additionally, if you have a family crest or can create a custom logo that resembles who you are as a couple, this is a wonderful touch to include on all of your stationary items.
4. Which details will you choose to convey the overall look and feel for your night?
Details are the final step in bringing your wedding brand to life. Signature cocktails, desserts, music selection and various reception activities can all be representative of who you are and help to create the desired environment for your wedding.
Wedding Day Signs You Need
Welcome signs, directional posters, bar rules and food menus are just a few examples of the types of signs we recommend having at weddings to prevent guests from asking questions and wondering what comes next.
Most planners and venues will have insight on this, but DIY brides can have fun and get creative as well! Here are important signs every wedding needs.
WELCOME
Consider a big custom framed sign to excite guests and let them know they’re in the right place!
DIRECTIONAL
Avoid any issues with navigating around a large venue with strategically placed directional signs to all of the key areas, including ceremony, cocktail hour, reception and bar.
FOOD AND DRINK
Do you have a signature cocktail? Are there specific bar rules guests must follow? Serving late night snacks? These are all important things you’ll want to communicate to guests on signs that can be placed on bar tops and food stations.
BRIDE AND GROOM/CELEBRATORY
Personal touches on the backs of your dinner chairs or at guest check-in signs create more excitement on the big day. Whether it’s a simple, “Mr. & Mrs.” sign or something more elaborate, make it personal and appropriate for you as a couple.
Halloween-Inspired Weddings
Have a Halloween Inspired Wedding isn't a new idea but we love it so much it, we had to share some cool ideas we've seen.
GO CLASSIC
OR MAKE IT REALLY SPOOK-TACULAR!
Photography: Karma Event Lighting | Mango Studios | Gina & Ryan Photography
Plan Your Wedding (4 Step Guide to Getting Started)
There is a lot that goes into planning a wedding. The moment you start the planning process you'll realize that from the dress to the venue to the entertainment, the options are endless. Here's a four step quick guide to getting started with your planning process.
STEP 1. CONGRATS YOU ARE ENGAGED!
STEP 2. CONSIDER A WEDDING PLANNER
There is so much to consider and might need help. Reach out to a few planners to get some options on how they can assist you. They'll also help with a budget to get started.
STEP 3. PICK A DATE!
Depending on your venue's availability, find the perfect date.
STEP 4. FIND YOUR ENTERTAINMENT
We might be a little biased but great entertainment gets book usually 12 months prior to the wedding date so you'll want to start looking at entertainment or getting ideas of which groups you'd like. Check out a great band below!
Lighting You Need For Your Event
Let's talk Uplights
Lighting can make a big difference in the atmosphere of your event.
Uplighting works to add some flare to the party and can often times make the room feel more lively. Also if you use customizable color LEDs, its a great way to match your decor. Whether your event is big or small and you want to add some lighting, uplighting would be a great place to start.
Don't Forget To Dance
All married couples say the same thing: the wedding goes by so fast! So much preparation and planning is put into the big day and it’s important to enjoy every moment as it’s passing.
DON’T FORGET TO JOIN IN WITH YOUR GUESTS ON THE DANCE FLOOR!
You work hard to create the party of a lifetime for your guests, so make sure you also get to enjoy it! Guests will cherish every moment they have with you, but sharing a drink and laughing at each others’ moves on the dance floor is much more memorable than a hurried conversation as you attempt to greet each and every table.
Tags: #weddingtipwednesday
Photography: Lisa Marie Photographie
Crafting a Thank You Speech
A lot of pressure is placed on the best man and maid of honor when it comes to delivering a witty and sentimental wedding speech. However, one speech that is equally as important but often times forgotten is the Bride and Groom’s thank you speech.
GUESTS WILL APPRECIATE THE GESTURE, EVEN IF IT’S SHORT AND SWEET!
Find time before or after dinner and decide if one or both of you will do the talking, but most importantly make sure it’s heartfelt. There may not be enough time during the night to personally greet every single guest, but this is a nice way to show appreciation and call out any special loved ones who contributed to making the night possible.
Creating a Memorable Exit
A great deal of emphasis is placed on making an entrance when it comes to wedding ceremonies and receptions, but what about the grand exit? Even if you’re planning on joining your guests at the after party, you can still make a memorable exit at the reception!
A WEDDING EXIT CAN BE SPECIAL MOMENT FOR THE BRIDE AND GROOM!
For the traditional approach, pack your honeymoon bags in a vintage car and don’t forget the “Just Married” sign on the back!
Consider the photo opportunity of being surrounded by your guests with lit sparklers or tossed confetti as you make your getaway. Pro tip: If your venue allows sparklers consider supplying a lighter or matches for guests to ensure they all spark and stay lit at the same time.
For a simpler send-off, choose a meaningful song to end the night and make your exit once it’s over.
There’s no right or wrong way to exit, it’s just another fun aspect to consider for the big day!
Tags: #weddingtipwednesday #weddingexit #getawaycar #sparklers
Vendors Know Best
Researching vendors in the early wedding planning stages can be very overwhelming. Whether you are working with a planner or going the DIY route, it’s important to lean on others for help, specifically vendors themselves.
ASK VENDORS FOR REFERRALS – THEY KNOW THE INDUSTRY BEST!
For example, if you find your florist first, find out who they have a professional working relationship with. Don’t be afraid to ask for their recommendations as they know the industry best. Similarly, your venue or wedding planner or coordinator will have preferred vendors they work with and can get the job done.
It’s important to remember that different vendors cater to different tastes and budgets, so once you receive referrals it’s best to schedule meetings with each of them to see what feels right for you before narrowing it down.
Tags: #weddingtipwednesday #weddingvendor #socalwedding #losangeleswedding #californiawedding #downbeatlaweddings
Pre-Dinner Mini Dance Party
Some couples have requested a small dance set before guests are seated for dinner and it’s a huge hit every time!
GET THE GUESTS OUT ON THE DANCE FLOOR EARLY!
After cocktail hour, everyone is ready to have a great time. Whether it’s right after the first dance when guests are crowded around, or immediately following the grand entrance, ask your band or DJ to play 3-4 dance songs to get the party started. It sets a great tone for the night and is a great preview of what’s in store after dinner is over!
Tags: #weddingtipwednesday #downbeatlaweddings #danceparty #weddingmusic
Don't Sweat the Small Day-Of Stuff
We understand how much preparation goes into making an ordinary day turn into a magical celebration. Once everything is planned down to the last detail it’s important to trust your vendors and enjoy your day!
You picked them because they are professional and know what it takes behind the scenes to make your day extra special.
DON'T WORRY, IT WILL ALL COME TOGETHER!
No one is going to know if a centerpiece is missing a few flowers, if there is one sign missing or a time may have shifted for a special song or dance. It’s important to be flexible and have an open mind and know that things may change on the day, but remember the guests won’t know the difference.
DON’T LOSE SIGHT OF WHAT’S IMPORTANT,
ENJOYING THE DAY WITH YOUR LOVED ONES
Thoughts on First Looks
Some of the best moments are those that happen once.
Many couples forget to take time for themselves to enjoy their big day, and the first look provides and opportunity to do just this! Some couples have said it calms their nerves and gets them even more excited for the ceremony knowing that they can relax and spend less time on photos during the party.
THE FIRST LOOK IS AN INTIMATE, ROMANTIC MOMENT FOR THE COUPLE
For brides, if you want a first look but still want to surprise your groom walking down the aisle, switch up the dress! Don’t wear the veil during the first look but add it for the ceremony. Either way, both moments will be unforgettable and you’ll be happy you have the memories to last a lifetime.
Photography: The Youngrens
Tags: #weddingtipwednesday #downbeatlaweddings #firstlook #californiaweddings
Ceremony Cocktails
Traditionally, wedding ceremonies are followed by cocktail hours where guests can order drinks, mingle and enjoy hors d’oeuvres before dinner. But, what if you consider a twist on tradition where guests are greeted with champagne at a ceremony entrance or offered beverages to simply stay cool and hydrated during the vow exchange?
CONSIDERING YOUR GUESTS’ COMFORT AND ENJOYMENT IS KEY!
For adults-only weddings, we think this is a fun and unexpected way to welcome guests. If there are children in attendance, try switching it up and offering lemonade or soda to create a fun and more laid back atmosphere.
If your ceremony is held in a church or other place of worship, this may not fall in line with tradition. Even so, guests will always appreciate the thought of providing bottled water or a light refreshment no matter where the ceremony is taking place, just check with your venue and location for rules and availability first.
Photographer: The Perfect Palette | Scheme Events
Summer Wedding Plan B
It summertime and weddings are in full swing! Every season has its own pros and cons when it comes to wedding weather and planning, but for couples saying, “I Do”, in the summer heat, we’ve got some reminders that may be helpful on the big day!
1. ALWAYS HAVE A PLAN B
For outdoor weddings, don’t assume it will be sunshine and blue skies just because its summer. Having a backup plan for your venue, whether it’s a tent or indoor option, is crucial. Also, don’t forget to stock the entrance with sunscreen, parasols and fans to ensure the comfort of your guests.
2. WEAR LIGHTER, COOLER ATTIRE
A lighter fabric that breathes easily for the bride, linen suits for the groom and even sandals for all of the beach-casual weddings are smart options for staying cool at the altar.
3. CONSIDER THE DESSERT
If you’re in a cool, air-conditioned reception venue this may not be a concern. However, if you are celebrating al fresco, make sure you have desserts that won’t melt if they’re on display for a long period of time, or plan on bringing them out only when guests are ready to enjoy them.
Congratulations to all of our summer brides and grooms this year!
Photography: Shannen Natasha | Michelle Karas | Best Products
Tags: #weddingtipwednesday #summerwedding #downbeatlaweddings
Celebrity Planners Give Advice
1. START YOUR WEDDING DAY WITH A FEW MINDFUL BREATHS
To keep stress levels at a minimum on the big day, Weiss recommends taking a few minutes in the morning to center yourself. “When you wake up on your wedding day, take a deep breath and commit to enjoying the moments,” she says. “Whatever is going to happen will work out. I promise the more relaxed you are, your family and friends will feel it, too.” – Mindy Weiss, www.mindyweiss.com (source: la-confidential-magazine.com)
2. VALUE YOUR VENDORS
Your vendors are your family within the industry. They are the ones who will help bring your vision and ideas to fruition. The vendors I work with trust me and enjoy working with my team. Make sure you are kind to those who work alongside you to help make the event a success. – Sharon Sacks, www.sacksproductions.com (source: www.bizbash.com)
3. NOT EVERYONE IN YOUR BRIDAL PARTY NEEDS A PLUS-ONE.
If it's someone your brother plans on spending years with, fine. But you don't want to meet a new person at your wedding unless he or she is a really significant other. – Colin Cowie, www.colincowie.com (source: www.brides.com)
4. WHERE DO YOU TRIM COSTS TO MAKE ROOM FOR SPLURGES?
Cocktail hour should be gracious and lovely, but I don't believe in putting too much money into it. Three to five passed hors d'oeuvres are fine, and you don't have to play live music. Who's really going to hear it besides the 20 guests standing in front of the trio? – Bryan Rafanelli, www.rafanellieevents.com (source: www.glamour.com)
5. NEVER LOSE SIGHT OF THE REAL REASON FOR YOUR WEDDING CELEBRATION: TO CELEBRATE WITH TREASURED FAMILY AND FRIENDS.
Sure it will be fun to be in the spotlight but don’t forget to step away from the crowd for a moment and savor a private and special moment together. Celebrities often plan an elaborate spread for cocktail hour so that their guests are well taken care of while they slip away to capture their first precious moments as a happily wedded couple on camera. These are images you’ll treasure for a lifetime! – Andrea Freeman, www.andreafreemanevents.com (source: www.hollywoodlife.com)
Plan a Surprise!
Wedding guests may have an idea of what they can expect when it comes to attending a reception, especially close friends and family who have been clued in on certain details and arrangements. Something to consider is planning for a surprise that guests don’t see coming!
Here are our top picks for ways to surprise guests at a wedding:
- Late night snack station
- Surprise dance performance or song dedication
- Family heritage ceremony
- Fireworks or sparklers
- Grand exit for the bride and groom
Whether it’s simple or grandiose, guests will love an unexpected treat during the celebration!
Adults Only or Kids Allowed?
When debating whether or not to have children at the celebration of your wedding, it’s important to consider family dynamics, wedding guests and the desired degree of formalness for the reception. For some couples the decision is easy, but it can also be a delicate subject for some.
CONSIDER FAMILY DYNAMICS, TIME OF DAY, LOCATION AND FORMALNESS!
If your family gatherings are packed with little ones then it maybe you can’t imagine your big day without them. If your wedding will be mostly friends and adults looking to party into the night, it might warrant the call for an adults-only celebration.
When it comes to formalness, if you’re hosting a black tie wedding reception that starts in the evening, then children would be better left out of the equation. On the other hand, if it’s a daytime wedding with a more casual vibe, kids tend to be the life of the party! Just remember to have fun activities, appropriate menu options and possibly hired supervision to keep them safe and entertained.
Photos: Andrew Craner | WeddBook |
Must-Play & DO-NOT Play Lists
Chances are the band or DJ you’ll book (or have already booked) for your wedding is already prepared with songs to get the party started and keep it going all night. While it’s important to give them freedom to make song decisions based on their expertise, don’t be afraid to make special requests.
MAKING SONG REQUESTS WITH YOUR BAND OR DJ
Aside from the first dance and parent dances, communicate a select handful of meaningful songs that would make the night complete. Additionally, if there are any songs or artists that you don’t want to hear, be sure to communicate that as well.
DJs and bands will appreciate the input, but trust that they’ll be reading the crowd throughout the night in order to play what everyone wants to hear, so keep requests minimal
Tags: #weddingtipwednesday #weddingmusic #downbeatlaweddings
Photo vs. Video Booths
PROP, DROP AND POSE
Who doesn’t love dressing up with fun props and having their photos taken at weddings? Photo booths provide the perfect opportunity for wedding guests to come together and get silly in celebration of the happy couple.
KEEP THE PARTY GOING WELL AFTER THE BIG DAY IS OVER!
In addition to photo booths, we’re seeing video booths make their way to more and more receptions as well! Whether it’s slow motion cameras, gif-capturing technology or guests recording personalized video messages for the bride and groom, videos are equally as memorable and might even be more fun to have during the party
Both photo and video booths give guests something to look forward to after the big day is over and supplement professional photos and videos that may have been taken as well.
Photography: Mebo Photo | Sprout Squared Photography
Videography: Nathan Strubhar of Sunlit Films
Get Social
Wedding guests love snapping photos on the big day, so why not give them the opportunity to share them on social media for everyone to enjoy?
PERSONALIZED WEDDING HASHTAGS ARE A MUST!
Create a custom hashtag that includes a play on your last name or wedding location and encourage guests to tag every photo with it across Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and more! This will allow every photo to be easily accessed so you don’t miss any captured memories!
Provide friendly reminders, like including a sign at your venue’s entry point, to let guests know what and where they can post – just remember, bridal party members shouldn’t post photos of the bride or groom before they say “I do” to maintain the element of surprise.
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