Less Stressful Wedding Planning

Here are some of our top tips for making it through the wedding planning process without stressing yourself out.

1. Hire a wedding planner! Seriously, hire a planner ladies and gentlemen. We have done this hundreds of times and can help guide you in all of the decision making. Many brides and grooms we meet, come to us close to their wedding day because they relied too heavily on their mothers, aunts, sisters etc. to take care of major details. Remember, most of those people are playing a significant role in your wedding day, let them enjoy it.  Wedding planners will not only be with you during the planning process but will help your wedding day run smoothly and put out any fires that may arise.

2. Accept that fires with arise. There will always be something that doesn't go as expected and that's ok.

3. Be prepared. There are things that can be planned ahead for. Such as the weather. If your wedding will be held outside, reserve and extra tent to have the ceremony in case of rain. Is your wedding during the warmer warmth, make sure to reserve portable fans.

4. Don't overbook yourself the day of your wedding. In short, don't schedule a manicure, pedicure, facial and plan a large brunch. Focus on hair, makeup and relaxing.



5. Don't be tempted to drive past your wedding venue to see how it is going. More than likely you will see the staff preparing and it will look nothing like you had envisioned. Wait for the big reveal, it will be worth it.

6. Take time the week of the wedding to spend alone time with your fiance. Reconnect and remember why you spent months getting to this point.

7. The last bit of advice is so important! This is great advice from an article from RealSimple.com. You can't control everything. Zippers will break, flower girls will cry, and what matters is the marriage, not the height of the centerpieces. As the bride, you drive the mood. It won't matter if the storm of the century is sweeping through-if you're all smiles and thrilled to be married the love of your life, the guests will have fun too.

Flowers for the Flower Girl

There is a chance the cutest person walking down the aisle will be your flower girl. Many brides are choosing alternative ways for her to carry flowers. Here are a few ideas.

Flower Crown

Wand

Flower Ball

Flower Umbrella

Mad about the Man-Gifts for the Groom

9 WEDDING DAY GIFT IDEAS FOR YOUR HUBBY-TO-BE

article from www.weddingtonway.com

These days it’s quite common for a bride and groom to exchange some sort of gift on their wedding day. It’s a romantic and sentimental gesture that can set the mood for the day. Why not surprise your future husband with a little something to show him how much you love and appreciate him? Wondering what to give your man? Here are our favorite ideas.

1. A heartfelt note written in a handmade card. This homemade gift is free, but the words written inside, if honest and true, are priceless. From the way he hugs you when you’re upset to his world famous game day hot wings, list out the reasons why you love him. Express your adoration and gratitude and let him know you can’t wait to spend the rest of your life with him!

2. An experience gift to share after the wedding. Get season tickets to his favorite sports team and promise you’ll go to half of the games with him. The other half he can take a buddy or brother! Or purchase tickets to a concert or show he’s always wanted to see and let him know you want to make it your first date night out as newlyweds.

3. Send him food. He may be feeling nervous on the morning of your wedding, so why not send him a breakfast spread from his favorite brunch spot? He and his groomsmen can enjoy it while they get ready. Another idea that’s sort of along the same lines is to send a bottle of his preferred spirit (whiskey, rye, tequila, etc.) and a box of cigars. This will help calm any pre-nuptial jitters. Don’t forget a quick note that says I love you.

4. A personalized piece of jewelry or accessory. An engraved watch, cufflinks, money clip, tie clip, and wallet are traditional groom’s gifts that are practical and memorable. Have them engraved with the date of your wedding, your initials, or a special quote that’s important to you both.

5. Something to use on the honeymoon. Heading to a beachy paradise the day after the wedding? Get him a pair of new designer shades. Does he love to snap photos wherever you travel? Give him a new camera to play with.

6. A framed photo. A picture of the two of you that he’s never seen from early on in your relationship is fun. Or one from the day of your engagement. Another option is a sexy photo of you taken boudoir style. Write a note that says you’ll show him the lingerie and a few tricks you learned at a burlesque class later that night in the newlywed suite!

7. A fancy swiss army knife or bottle opener or other handy tool. Outdoorsy types will appreciate a functional gift that they can use over and over again in the future.

8. An engraved flask. Have his name etched on the side and fill it with his liquor of choice.

9. A groom’s survival kit. This tongue-in-cheek gift can include socks (in case he get’s cold feet), mints (to ensure a fresh kiss), a nip of alcohol (to calm his nerves), and a light up party ring (in case he forgets the real deal).

Selecting a Photographer Tips

One of the most important vendors that Bride and Grooms look to hire is a photographer. It is important to meet with different photographers to see their work, to see if your personalities match as well as their price point.

Before meeting with the photographer, make sure to look up reviews and speak to friends and family who may have used them in the past.

Make sure to communicate the most important photos that you want the photographer to capture. Also communicate when you want to stop formal photos and start with candid shots.

Lastly, a signed contract stating services hired for, start and finish time as well as must have photos is strongly recommended.

Modern Weddings

When I think of a modern wedding, I think of clean and simplistic decor. It however doesn't mean it can't be glamorous and beautiful.

 Here are some inspirational photos to help you as you start planning your special day.

Creative Bridal Showers

Besides the actual wedding day, many brides look forward to their bridal shower. It's a great opportunity to take a break from planning and just relax with the special women in your life. Many brides are foregoing the typical brunch and becoming more creative with how they spend the day. 

Here are a a few ideas:

For the adventurous bride, there is stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, nature hike or even a camping trip. Rent a cabin, roast smores and drink wine!

Schedule a wine tasting and food pairing event at a vineyard. 

Have a Spa themed Bridal Shower. Bring in a makeup artist, masseuse as well as manicures.  

Choosing The Right Mansion for You

 Many brides envision their special day at a mansion. With beautiful staircases, gorgeous scenery and amazing photo opportunities, a mansion wedding can make any woman feel like a princess. As Marylanders, we are lucky to have many options, from the ocean to the mountains, the choices are endless.

Valley Country Club and Mansion

 So how do you choose? First, the time of year will play an important roll. If your wedding will take place during the summer, you want to make sure the mansion you choose is air conditioned to ensure the comfort of not only you and your fiance, but your guests as well. On the contrary, if your wedding takes place during the cooler months, ensure heat is an option.

Cylburn Mansion

Another thing to consider is location. Would you like a mansion closer to the water? Or do you want a more rural setting? Secluded or in a more accessible area? After deciding on those factors, keeping in mind travel for guests is a good way to go.

Grey Rock Mansion

You should also ask the venue whether they have an on site caterer. Do they offer tables, chairs, and linens? If not these will be things you will have to rent and have brought in.