Tag: bridal budget
It’s no secret that a wedding day is all about the bride (and groom… I guess… hehe), but that doesn’t mean wedding guests should feel the need to take liberties on their appearences simply out of spite. In fact, unless instructed otherwise by the bride, there are several do’s and don’ts when it comes to dressing for a wedding, and it’s important that those in attendence are aware.
Why? You may ask.
Well, we all know that fashion – to oh so many people – is a form of expressive art. Everyone from the goth gurus and boho chic chickies to the prep-tastic pretties and casual cuties knows a thing or two about showing the world who they are through clothing. Fashion, after all, can be a truly powerful thing.
But with great power, comes great responsibility, which is precisely why I’ve assembled the following photographic collage (shown below) to assist you in using that power. You may think all eyes are on the bride… but not when heinously clad guests choose to use their powers for evil, instead of good. So, unless given the direct go-ahead from the future Mr. and Mrs. themselves, it’s safe to say the following DON’Ts should be advised and executed accrdingly:
1. DON’T (try to) Upstage the Bride. You could end up looking like an idiot. Just ask Fergie’s daughters. Yikes.
Whatever you do, don’t try to pull off what the daughters of Prince Andrew and Fergie did during their "look-at-me" arrival for the Royal Wedding. I mean, really?!? What I can’t understand is they are both girls; so, why didn't at least one of them think to ask, "How do I look?" before leaving the safety of their homes? Not good, ladies, not good at all. (photo courtesy of people.com)
2. DON’T Wear White. Because “pure” will be the last thing anyone thinks of you… unless that pure is followed by an evil. Just saying.
Let the bride have her day, and stray away from white. Don’t see how it could be a distraction? Well, just ask Jane Fonda when she looked all kinds of ridiculous as JLo’s mother in law in 2005’s ‘Monster in Law.’ 5 syllables: In-uh-pro-pre-ate. (photo courtesy of wwwcinemastyle.blogspot.com)
3. DON’T Sport Wardrobes that may Malfunction. Because I don’t care how HAWT-to-trot you are (or think you are), no one needs it trotting in their faces.
Chances are there will be some down and dirty, reception dancing, and regardless of how down or dirty you’re planning on getting, you don’t need to wear something that would reveal either. Nobody wants to be caught on Facebook or YouTube pulling off their best Janet Jackson impression – eek! (photo courtesy of bizofshowbiz.com)
4. DON’T do anything Lady Gaga would Do. Trust me. She’s the only one who could pull it off, and sometimes – just sometimes – I’m not 100% convinced even she can…
Back! Get back, evil doer! Between the Kermit the Frog get up and the one you could literally ‘pop’ to this ^^ disaster, I think it's pretty safe to say that "statement" fashion should be left to Lady Gaga and the red carpet... Not your cousin's wedding. (photo courtesy of deepbottle.com)
And last, but ceratinly not least — in fact, this beaut should be the #1 don’t…
5. DON’T get too Drunk & think You’re ‘Somebody’. Over intoxication looks good on no one, no matter what outfit its accessorizing.
I mean, who wants to be the person talked about in past tense? ‘And to think I USED to have a crush on her… My, my, my, wasn’t she like the cutest thing ONCE?’ I’m all for having a good time, but outta control, hot mess should never be the way one goes about it. Right, Linds? (photo courtesy of picpiggy.com)
June 16, 2011
Yep. It's only appropriate given the cost. Gag.
Everyone knows the big names when it comes to wedding registries: Bed, Bath & Beyond, Bloomingdale’s, Crate & Barrel, JCPenny, Kohl’s, Macy’s, Pottery Barn, Target, etc. Of course, there are others, but I don’t have a single doubt that everyone reading this has either A) registered their wedding or B) bought for another wedding at one or more of these retail registry giants.
However, with more and more couples (Grandmothers, cover your ears!) living together and playing house before the big day, there has been a significant increase in couples looking to register elsewhere. Because they have several of the essentials perhaps already taken care of, brides and grooms are looking for less traditional ways to register… and my oh my how the selections have grown! Check below for the Top 5:
- MyRegistry.com. No need to worry about fitting the proper bridal mold of sticking to the 2-3 store registry limit. MyRegistry.com - like its slogan states – features “all stores (under) one registry.” Simply install the “Add to MyRegistry” button to your search engine tool bar and shop any store, anytime, anywhere. It’s a win / win for couples looking to expand their home into specific directions… without the burden of being specific to one store. Can anyone else say boo and yeah :)
- HatchMyHouse.com. Featured on b&g favorites like dailycandy.com and Brides, HatchMyHouse.com gives couples – looking forward to home owning – the chance to build their dream diggs with the help of their guests. After logging onto their site, couples have the opportunity to design their virtual home and giving their guests the opportunity to either donate or buy specific parts for them! Um, hello??? Love love love this! What do you buy the couple who “has everything?” What about a terrace overlooking their conveniently located lake? Purrrrrfection.
- HoneyFund.com. Already got your cabinets stocked with fine China and toasting treasures but would really like a place to honey*swoon? Well then, why not let your guests be a part of the post nuptial planning! By clicking on HoneyFund.com, soon-to-be newlyweds can register for their dream vacation and let their hair down in true, wedded bliss. I mean who needs a blender, when the margaritas are already on tap? Haha!
- IDoFoundation.org / JustGive.org. For the more charitable couple looking to do good during the “I do’s,” websites such as IDoFoundation.org and JustGive.org provide the opportunity for newlyweds to give instead of receive. Talk about generosity at its finest! Instead of registering for a bunch of appliances and dishware, why not give to a cause in need? Because if it’s truly in giving that we receive, couples registering at these locations will surely get the greatest gift of all :)
- MerciRegistry.com. Looking for something that’s totally you? Well then, peep out MerciRegistry.com and let your wedding gifts become just that. By choosing from one of their well crafted themes, brides and grooms can design, dinker and decorate their very own wedding registry website and pull in items from all over the world. Of course with greatness, there is sometimes a price, and in this case, subscriptions start at $65 :)
May 17, 2011
courtesy of Jessika Feltz Photography
It’s funny, but I’m not much of a jewelry gal. I know, I know. Feel free to gasp and guffaw accordingly :) Even though all my girlfriends tell me it’s un-female to not love any and all trinkets that dazzle, I’ve always argued that I sparkle enough :)
However, all this played a role into the whole engagement process. My dear, sweet husband wanted to surprise me but had no idea what my ring finger size was, and sorry to report, I didn’t have a clue either. Thus the process for “finding the perfect fit” began.
Of course, every girl will be different – not only in size – but also in comfort. Some girls like the tight, almost-too-snug fit because it gives them a greater sense of security. Others, prefer it a little looser because the “spin factor” helps remind them it’s there. Still others are concerned with climate. If they’re in a hot, humid area where fingers can swell up like sausages, they may be more mindful and bump up their size .25″ or so… whereas ladies-in-waiting living in the artic may size down a bit to ensure the rock stays put when snow’s flying… but alas, as always, the choice it up to you.
So, for all you ladies out there looking to find your perfect fit, the World Wide Web offers are several ways to go about it:
- For instance, there is the String Test. This is where you cut a small piece of string, wrap it around your finger, measure it accordingly and compare with jewelry store measurements.
- Also, there is the Paper Test. Several online dealers will have versions of this for you to use. They simply provide a perforated guide that you can cut out, wrap around your finger and see where you land. You can even try using Google Images; just be sure the scaled measurements are accurate when printed.
- Finally, there is the “Secret” Test. Again, if you look online, most retail jewelry stores will have a ring scale you can use for accuracy. This is where you align a ring which you want to mimic the fit of on top of a chart to see which size will fit best. This is the one guys can use “behind the backs” of their ladies when purchasing a ring so she won’t know about; hence, why it’s the “secret” test. :) Of course, please, please, please note, this is the one my Mister tried – tried being the operative word - for me. Unfortunately, he chose a ring from my childhood (yes, CHILDhood) that would’ve been perfect… if this were the 16th century and I was betrothed at the ripe old age of eight, haha. So, make sure if your man is one who would do this, that you leave out only appropriate sized rings :)
Click here for a free PDF from Zales.com that has all three versions readily available.
Now, while it’s always best to get a feel for the ring fit yourself, there are many obvious reasons why this can’t always happen. So, if your actual ring can’t be there for you, BlueNile.com offers a Free Ring Sizer that will deliver plastic ring sizer to your house within 5-7 business days of your request. SUPER handy for the girlfriend DYING to get engaged who’s looking to drop some hints or just a girl looking to buy herself some bling ;)
May 5, 2011
photo courtesy of photosbyjennifer.com
Who said you have to spend a fortune to get a bundle? Um, not this pretty little lady – that’s fo sho! Here at Marilyn’s Keepsakes, we make it a point to serve up trend-tastic goods for the budget savvy bride! After all, does anyone really want to ‘shop til they drop?’ Eeesh. Sounds painful.
Instead of dropping – be it physically yourself or things off your list in order to save – why not simply spend smarter and get more bang for each one of your hard earned bucks?? Ha! I knew you’d be on board!
I know one area that snuck up on me (and added up SUPER fast) was the inevitable rush for attendant gifts… It’s not that I ever had an issue about spending moolah on the beautiful people me and the Mr. love the most, but I just felt like we put it off until last minute; so, when we started factoring in bridesmaids gifts, groomsmen gifts… gifts for the mothers and grandmothers, the fathers and grandfathers, the flower girls and ring bearers… ushers, guest book attendants… I think you see where this is going… I started to panic juuuuust a touch.
Obviously, being partial to all my ladies, I wanted to get them something fiercely fabulous, while still leaving a little somethin’ somethin’ for the all the dudes – haha! Good thing I work at a place that could provide me just that!
<Enter Stage Right> Personalized Bridesmaids Gifts Under $25! Unheard of, you say? Too good to be true, mayhaps? Nope :) Priced with you in mind and personalized free of charge, our entire line will have your wallet looking up and asking, “Does this custom gift make me look fat?” Yes, wallet, it does, and we couldn’t be happier :)
Happy shopping, ladies, and cheers to many MANY years of happiness!
March 10, 2011
Rent the Runway is an online store that allows customers to rent designer clothing – worth thousands in paper cheddar - for mere pennies on the dollar. Born out of New York City, Rent the Runway gives solution to the age old anomaly: “closet full of clothes, but nothing to wear,” and I have to admit, I’m rather impressed :)
Created by two Harvard Business School Jennifers - known to their friends affectionately as Jenn and Jenny – Rent the Runway houses countless name brands that you can rent out and wear on special occasions without the dramatic depletion to your checking account. With over 95 designers to choose from, they will gladly send you two sizes of the dress (or accessories) of your choosing at up to 90% off the retail cost… they even take care of the return shipping!
My girlfriend Rachel – holler, Rachie! – did this for our friend’s Lauren’s NYE wedding, and she looked absolutely fabulous! Already a b.e.a.uuuutiful girl, she rocked the reception in a Milly Kimono-me dress which retails at $445 for the low, low price of $50. See below:
Rent Here:
Wear Here:
Showin' off the duds at an NYE wedding!
With the newlywed, Lauren Lou, and yours truly! (my dress was from the 75% off rack @ JCP - boo yeah!)
**Work it out, Rach!** Rent the Runway has been featured in just about every fashion magazine, television program and most recently, they expanded their line into weddings! Whoo hoo! Now, brides have the opportunity to rent from the BEST designers the wedding world has to offer for themselves and/or their bridesmaids! Love this idea, not only for brides on a budget, but any ladies lookin’ to feel fabulous and retain savings! Check it out below:
January 21, 2011
I’m always excited when we get in new products. There’s just something refreshing about bringing in new trends to our line that gives me the warm and fuzzies, and every now and again, there comes along something that really stands out… and today, my dear brides to be, I’m happy to announce, is one of those things!
Introducing…
Woot woot!
Available in several different designs, these distinctive guest book alternatives put a creative spin on what is otherwise a plain, time honored tradition. Crafted of custom printed canvas, framed with love and personalized at absolutely no cost to you, this interactive art is just the breath of fresh air every bride can look forward to!
No longer are the days of standard guest books that are all too often put away and never thought of again. Instead, hang this signature piece proudly in your home and create a brilliant conversation piece, as well as a beautiful reminder of the day you said “I do.”
**Sets include custom printed canvas, black veneer wooden frame and plexiglass covering. Click Here to view all our available styles and let the fun begin!
January 14, 2011
photo courtesy of elizabethannedesigns.com
Cheers to the NEW YEAR and HAPPY 2011, everyone!
Can’t even believe it’s 2011 already… for serious, where did 2010 go? With the New Year comes new beginnings, new resolutions and my personal favorite, new trends! I love love love looking forward to what a new year will unfold, and from what I’ve seen, it doesn’t look like this one will disappoint!
With all the in’s and out’s of the wedding world, sometimes it’s nice to have an overview. So, this week, I’d like to give you an insider’s look into some of the latest and greatest the wedding industry has to offer – from trends and traditions to stats and spending!
As a member TheWeddingReport.com - a research company that specializes in gathering and reporting wedding industry trends, facts and information – Marilyn’s Keepsakes gladly receives firsthand knowledge about where the wedding industry’s been and where it’s going. Below are some of 2011′s latest breakdowns and forecasts based on studies, polls and research in the US :)
This section will mainly focus on the nuts and bolts of wedding spending…
Number of Weddings: How many People will Take the Plunge in 2011?
While the recent recessive struggle of years past has pointed more couples to simply walk the co-habitation line, there are still others who gladly forge forward and venture down the aisle to say “I do.” While still slightly lower than numbers from just 5 years ago, there is still an expected 2.1 million weddings set to pop off in 2011… looks like marriage is still one of the cool kids :)
Average Cost: Because Love Can’t be Measured
Like the amount of weddings since 2005, the amount spent on weddings is also down… but it’s not out! The average amount estimated for 2011 weddings will fall somewhere between the $23,000 – $25,000 range. Of course this encompasses all wedding from the outrageously lavish to the DIY dandies!
Average Age: How Old are Brides & Grooms
It’s all about first-timers! 2011 has a much greater percentage of first-time brides and first-time grooms saying “I do,” which also accounts for the slightly lower ages than past years. With about 91% of brides and 87% of grooms getting married for the first time, the average age of the bride is around 27, while the groom is slightly older (but not necessarily wiser – hehe!) at 29.
Number of Guests to Impress
It’s no secret that the economy is still all kinds of icky and because cutting the guest list is one of the #1 way for most couples to save money, the amount of people brides and grooms have invited to their big day have been on the decline for several years. However, there is a slight rise to the average from 2010 to 2011 with the average for this year falling anywhere between 140 – 150 guests!
Month to Marry: At Least there’s Only 12 Choices!
It looks June and September are the most popular months to marry; while January and February will round out the bottom two!
photo courtesy of theweddingreport.com
Stay tuned for Part 2…
January 3, 2011
Haha, that play-on-words title perhaps could use a little tweaking, but instead of fannying about with the subject line, I figged it’s waaaay more important to share with you the MEAT of this post…
If you haven’t heard of this little dream come true, hold on to your hats, friends! Because when I first learned about the deep-DEEP discounting email list from my former wedding photographer, Jessika Feltz, via her Facebook fan page, I’ve been amazed! Groupon.com is essentially an email subscription list driven by consumers, localized by cities and empowered by a “no holds bar” attitude of discounting. Here, I’ll let them explain:
Groupon negotiates huge discounts—usually 50-90% off—with popular businesses. We send the deals to thousands of subscribers in our free daily email, and we send the businesses a ton of new customers. That’s the Groupon magic. (Groupon.com)
While I can’t say that I’m amazed each and every single day by the coinciding deals – namely because they don’t always pertain to me, I have to admit in the very next breath that when they do pertain to me, it provides this pretty little lady with more than a bountiful benefit. Within the last week, I’ve had offers for 52% off of house cleaning services, 72% off Zoom teeth whitening, 65% off gallery canvas wrapped prints, 60% Windsor Jewelry, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
Hence why this “deal of the day” provider is so great for brides-to-be! Because you’re wedding is a once in a lifetime event, why not support it with a whole bunch of once in a lifetime deals??? Maybe 75% off car washing supplies isn’t up your wedding alley, but what about 80% off spa treatments or limo services! Or how about 75% off formal wear and personalized gifts?? That’s what I thought!
So, do yourself a favor, check it out and see what kind of budget busting savings are waiting for you!
December 17, 2010
Who needs Black Friday Sales when you can Shop with Us and save year round??? Happy Thanksgiving to all our fabulous customers and many blessings to all the couples looking forward to tying the knot in the New Year!
**Now, let’s raise our glasses in honor of our soon-to-be newlyweds**
May you treat each day as if it were your last, and each night as if it were first. And cheers to many, MANY years of happiness :)
November 24, 2010
Who doesn’t love the holidays? The gathering of family and friends. The music. The food. The fun. The laughter!! Not to mention the most important factor of all… the extra vacation days, hellloooo?? It truly is “the most wonderful time of the year,” which is precisely why all you brides-to-be out there should take advantage of the generosity this season has to offer and kick your wedding planning into high gear!
Indulge in all the small pleasures the holidays bring, and get your Santa on by making a list, checking it twice, and finding out what wedding stuff is naughty or nice. Below are a few examples how:
- Because the holidays create a time to gather all your loved ones in one area, you can easily get and share advice with other / former brides-to-be. Ask family and friends for their top do’s and don’ts; so, you know what to look for and what to avoid.
- If you find yourself hosting a party, take this time to test out potential caterers, florists, bakers, etc. It’s an ideal time to “try out” who will have what it takes to impress all your guests!
- Since many people vacation during holidays, get with your bridesmaids and go dress shopping. Not only will they provide an honest reaction to your wedding gown options, but you can also start to see what bridesmaids’ dress styles will work for them.
- Take time to practice wedding day hair and makeup. Whether you’re doing it yourself or getting it done, chances are it’s going to be something fancier than usual; so, what better way to show off a fabulous look than when surrounded by family and friends?
- Even benefit from bad weather. After the holiday shopping rush is over and snow is still on the ground, people tend to snuggle up and stay in. I say, “Get out!” Go exploring for interesting ceremony and reception sites, and don’t be afraid to try something new… it just might end up being your ideal location.
- On a tight budget? No problem! There are innumerable post holiday sales that you can gobble up, which will surely help you get the most bang for your buck!
- If anything, use the holiday season to get organized. If you’re sending out holiday cards, you’ll more than likely have a list or people and addresses that you’ll need for invitations. Keep this list handy and be one more step ahead of the game!
Also – if you’re brave enough – don’t forget to take advantage of all the Black Friday sales this Friday. For more information on where and when you can get the most bang for you buck, feel free to check out the following sites and gear up for your saving frenzy:
And be sure to note Marilyn’s Keepsakes HUGE Black Friday Sales Event, as well!
November 22, 2010
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