Paper Garland. Provide a stack of construction-paper strips (like the kind used in grade school to make paper chains) and ask each guest to write a message on one link that he or she then attaches to the chain. Have glue dots on hand so it’s easy to adhere and there’s no dealing with sticky glue. Beginning the day after your honeymoon, remove a link and read it together to relive your big day.
Think about the mood you want to set. What words describe your wedding? Dramatic? Fun? Sweet? Opulent? Colors are a powerful way of influencing people’s moods, so you’ll want to choose colors that get you and your guests in the right mindset. If a color you love doesn’t seem right for the mood you’re trying to create (say, pale pink for a dramatic wedding), that’s OK — balance it out with one or two (deep purple, gold) that can set that tone.
One area in particular Valentine suggests reimagining is the bridal bouquet. “I love flowers but can’t quite grasp the wedding tradition that stipulates that you carry a bouquet that often blocks the most intricate detailing on your wedding gown,” she says. For one bride, Valentine created a long cascade of orchids that hung to her side, allowing the focus to remain on her light-pink trumpet gown..
One thing you will probably notice that really stands out when looking at photographers websites is that their prices vary wildly. Should we assume that if one charges $10K and another charges $2K, the more expensive one will be five times better? Should be at least better, ya think? Guess what…prices aren’t necessarily commensurate with quality.
I could (and probably will) devote an entire future article to why prices vary so greatly. However, if a photographer is high priced, you should have a reasonable expectation of great work. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t expect good work at any price, but with one exception:
The exception is that with novices, you’d be wise to lower your expectations.
I’m starting to see some newbie photographers on Craigslist who are advertising shooting for free. Obviously, they are just trying to build a portfolio and there is nothing wrong with that. I’m not saying a noob won’t do a good job. Although we all have to start somewhere, it’s your memories of what I’m sure you are hoping is a once-in-a-lifetime-event, so, just be cautious. I recommend using a novice photographer only if that is all you can possibly afford.
For the ultimate spring bouquet, mix large, dramatic flowers with little tiny ones, in pretty citrusy spring colors. The blend of big and small flowers creates that just-picked-from-the-garden look that’s all the rage for springtime weddings