Tag: wedding reception decorations
Yes, that's a pic of bride, her groom & HER cake - CAN'T!
BREAKING NEWS: This just in, traditional wedding cakes are being invaded by their just as delicious counterparts… and the world, as we know it, will never be the same! (Cue the scary “dun! dun! dun! Music)
A wise man once said, “the times they are a-changin’,” and even though Bob Dylan originally wrote this particular lyric in 1964, no quote is more fitting for today’s modern bride. Pair the infinite amount of choices and opportunities a girl has with an unlimited quantity of search engines, hog wild imaginations and varying budgets, and there is no telling what color rabbit a bridal magician will pull out from under her hat. This is the same notion tapping in and taking over on the traditional wedding cake’s reign of supremacy. It is merely one more wedding tradition that has inevitably fallen victim to pomp, circumstance and apparently, bridal wizardry.
Ice Cream - Can!
Among the most well known cake alternatives are colorfully creative cupcakes and ultra yummy, candy bars. Arguably rivaling the notorious, traditional wedding cake, cupcake towers and candy bar buffets have really become household names in the wedding world. Working their way up the popularity ladder, these customized creations have proven time and time again, what they lack in tradition; they gain in delightful designs. Because both choices can be dipped, dolloped, shellacked, sprinkled and stacked any way a bride sees fit, they are easily taking over the market of goodies miniature in size but powerful in taste.
Doughnuts - Yum!
Not to be outdone by the more popular wedding cake alternatives, places like Baskin-Robbins and the Krispy Kreme Doughnut chain have also jumped on board the wedding dessert bandwagon. Each has started customizing delectable dishes for brides and grooms looking for something original and nontraditional. Krispy Kreme will refine, ruffle and raise up rows of doughnuts in the name of “holey” matrimony, while Baskin-Robbins likes to allow their newlyweds-to-be the option of choosing their favorite flavors to be merged and quaffed into a giant ice cream creation… giving ice sculptures and “cold feet” reassurance it’s super cool to be a part of wedded bliss. (What? Too much?)
Pork Pies - Huh?
And while chilled cream cakes and ice sculptures give couples a reason to freeze their assets, stacking their finger licking favorites in tiers is yet another alternative that will leave their guests with full bellies and warm hearts. Everything from fruit packed pastries to mousse filled toasting flutes and even pancakes and pork pies (yes, pancakes and pork pies!) have been displayed in reception halls across America. Not only can this cut down on service charges, but it also allows newlyweds the opportunity to have more than one choice. One of the most popular “tier”-ing choices is a combination of prepackaged confectioneries, such as Twinkies, Ding Dongs and Sno Balls, being assembled and stacked on cake plates and platters. These are obviously done by a bride looking to be the “Hostess with the Most-est!”
Pancakes - Yum!
But aiming to please isn’t the only reason people are leaning more toward wedding cake alternatives. More often than not, dessert options are decided by someone’s preferences, culture, heritage or beliefs; so, many couples will look to other parts of the world are looked to for inspiration. For instance, while many Americans humor in the fruitcake as a holiday gag gift, places like the British Isles, the Caribbean, Ireland and Scotland revere the fruit frenzy as a wedding day must have. Couples looking for something different might even look to Europe where France venerates its caramel covered, cream filled pastry towers (known as croquembouche) or Lithuania where sakotis – a cookie like dessert, shaped into a Christmas tree are nothing short of blue ribbons. Even newlyweds who (gasp!) don’t have a sweet tooth can look for inspiration in places like Korea who simply cover ground steamed rice in red bean powder or areas like Japan and India who use “dummy cakes” instead of the real thing. While the guests might not delight in eating cardboard, the wad left in a couple’s wallet from cutting cake costs will leave at least two people smiling.
Hostess Treats - Back to Yum!
Bottom line, wedding cakes and all their ensuing alternatives really don’t have any specific rules to follow. In fact, since everyone knows *calories don’t count when someone’s getting married, it may even be encouraged to go for the broke and try them all!
*not backed by scientific facts; only by the white lies people tell themselves to feel better.
October 23, 2009
Christina Aguilera + Her Halloween Hubby
While I was out on Wednesday for a marketing conference, I ran into an old friend – don’t you just love that? And pretty Ms. Nancy reported that she recently received a wedding invitation from an old, mutual friend of ours. Remembering the girl and how I admired her ability to march to the beat of her own drum, I was not in the least bit surprised that she was having a Happy Halloweener Wedding, complete with the instruction for guests to come in costume!
That’s right, her wedding wants to put everyone in the holiday spirit, and can I just say that I love love love it!!! I love hearing about different ideas and ways brides and grooms choose to showcase their love. Moreover, I’m stewing in my own misery for not keeping better contact with her – ‘cause you KNOW I would be decked to the nines for this bad boy! Hehe!
This was actually the same path my cousin Kelly wanted to take three years ago while planning her wedding. She has always had a severe crush on all things Halloween and delighted in the idea of surrounding her wedding with all things black and orange. She even toiled (pun intended) with the idea of costume/cross dressing as the groom and having Matt (the actual groom) wear the dress… haha, ohhhh Kelly.
Knowing Kelly very well, my Aunt and cousin decided it would be best not to say anything at all. For they knew, any objection or slight hesitation in their voices would only cause her to be more motivated, and after a couple days, the inspiration subsided. And while Kelly opted to have a very traditional wedding, it is by no means out of the reach of other brides to take a wedding theme over the top!
Go ahead and Google it… you just may be surprised all the things you can find. I literally saw everything from subtle hints of Halloween through candy bars, color accents and dim lit settings to the outrageously BOO-filled celebrations complete with the Bride of Frankenstein, black winged bridesmaids and graveyard ceremony settings. (Yeah, the last one creeped me out a little too.)
It almost makes me sad to know that I would never have courage to do something like this - as I’ve been dead set on being a “timeless” bride. I will, however, always take my hat off and applaud all the brave brides-to-be who dare to be different! Go ahead with your bad (and in this case, trick-or-treaty) selves!
October 16, 2009
I simply don’t know if I should to hug or hit my friend, Natalie, for sending me this too-tasty-for-words idea! With it’s uber delectable appeal, I find myself being drawn in; while my lurking, bathroom scale vigorously tries to draw me out. And even though I can hear it screaming, “run for the hills, Mary!”, my taste buds and non-existent will power won’t allow it… Alas, the candy bar buffet wins… again!
There is simply no denying the power of its appeal. Functioning as an alternative of OR in conjunction with the traditional wedding cake, these candy bar buffets have everyone from brides and grooms to guests and vendors going gaga! Originally designed with children in mind, candy tables have become equally – if not more – popular with adults.
Like their partners in crime – the infamous wedding cupcakes – what candy buffets lack in tradition, they gain in delightful designs. These extraordinary alternatives can be as elaborate or simple as you would like. You can stack them on shelves, three rows deep or line them up single file. You can theme them around your colors or make them into a standout, conversation piece. Because of the many potential opportunities candy bars offer, it’s no wonder their demand has all but doubled in today’s wedding market. Not to mention the fun you can have through all the seasons!
Weddings on or around holidays such as Halloween, Christmas or Valentine’s Day, are easily decorated with coordinating candies that are both seasonal and sensational. At Christmas, picture peppermint sticks, candy canes and gingerbread men overflowing out of sprinkled wreaths and twinkling vases. Imagine Halloween (or Autumn themed) candy bars brilliantly bedecked with caramel apples, sugared pumpkins and candy corn towers. Then, visualize Valentine’s Day treat tables adorned with a doting combination of messaging sweethearts, chocolate boxes and pink and red colored, candy parts! (Goodness me! Is anyone else’s mouth watering?)
Bottom line, candy bars can add a fun and trendy element to your big day celebration, no matter how big or small your budget may be. For more candy coated ideas - or simply snack worthy munchies – feel free to check out CandyFavorites.com, where candy is broken down by type, occasion, brand and services. And for all you nostalgic, candy lovers, try Candy Crate for a retro rewind to your childhood favorites!
August 5, 2009
With everyone going green these days, it was only a matter of time before weddings would catch the earth friendly fever. And why not?? We’re all raised under the respectful manner to “love our mothers;” so, why should Mother Nature be any different?
One area – to really show your “Mother” loving ability – is found within the confinds of the biggest expense in your wedding budget: the reception. While some couples are opting to budget crunch out favors for the guests, others are simply choosing to keep costs minimal.
Both smart and stylish, eco-friendly favors are the latest and greatest gifts to hit the wedding market. When deciding which favor will be friendliest, keep three R’s in mind: Reduce, Recycle and Reuse, and incorporate them accordingly. Below are some ideas on how to keep Mother Nature pleased during your planning:
- Trees, Please: Who says Arbor Day is the only day to hug a tree and save a life? Planting trees throughout the year is a great way to honor your guests, while making an everlasting impression of your love for the environment… think of them as symbolic saplings, if you will. As the years progress, trees become greater in size and rooted in strength – just as you and your Mister will! (Awwww!)
- Potted Centerpieces: Perfect for all the do-it-yourself brides out there, these powerful potted plants serve a dual, ovation worthy purpose. Not only do they make fabulous, eye-catching centerpieces during your big day, but you can invite your guests to take them home and replant them their gardens. AND, if you stick to perennial flowers, your guests will delight in seeing them come back year after year :)
- Dandy Donations: It truly is in giving that we receive, which is why making a donation to your favorite charity in honor of your guests is an ideal way to help out Mother Nature, while helping others. A perfect example of a gift that keeps on giving, donations – no matter how big or small – help make a difference! Not to mention, with the ease of a donations, there will be no excess wrapping paper or trash! Now, that’s a “hooray” I can really get behind!
- Shop Locally: Consider reducing your carbon footprint by shopping close to home. Driving long distances or having things shipped separately or from long distances can only add to the problem; so, be a part of the solution, instead, by looking online for the best deals in your area and taking advantage.
In the end, every little bit counts; so, why not do the eco-chic thing and be a bride who goes green? And feel free to check out our line of Eco-Friendly Wedding Favors and give the earth a hug today!
July 27, 2009
Now, I’m not one to brag – wait, yes I am, hehe - but our new line of Wedding Dance Floor Decals is just about the most fabulous thing since sliced bread! Brand new to the market and already a hit with brides everywhere, these customizable creations have heads turning and feet tapping.
Because each one is exclusively designed for every bride and groom individually, these floor medallions are as unique as the love they represent… making them a swoon worthy addition to any wedding day celebration. Picture it with me, won’t you:
The reception doors swing open, almost magically, unveiling months of planning and hours of hard work. The guests begin to leisurely meander toward their seats, but wait… what is this?? Hesitation ensues as paths seem to be drawn uncontrollably to the dance the floor. Symphonic “oohs” and “ahhs” begin to echo through the hall as if part of a well rehearsed play. The crowd is awestruck, and alas, in the center of all the excitment, there it lies… your very own, very colorful, very chic… Personalized Dance Floor Decal.
Dramatic? Perhaps. But there is no denying the creativity and originality these bad boys have to offer. Available in 6 Designs, 10 Colors and 2 Sizes, there is a floor decal with your name written all over it… for real! Haha – I’m hilarious today!
And if you shop now, we’ll gladly take $25 off orders over $100 or $50 off orders over $200. Use Promo Code MK25 or MK50 and experience how big savings and great products make for guilt free shopping!
July 22, 2009
At the risk of sounding too bold, I’m gonna go ahead and say that teapots rival the cuteness of puppy dogs and baby feet. There, I said it… do with it what you will, but there is no denying the undeniable creativity and colorfulness of a wedding day centerpiece done up Mrs. Potts style!
With their variety of shapes, sizes and styles, teapots have a chic’ness that exude an ironic blend of timeless elegance and contemporary freshness. Fashioned in everything from antique, hand painted ceramic to engraved stainless steel, there is surely a teapot to fit every wedding day decor. And with the ability to dress them up with your favorite fresh flowers or coordinated tea cups, the possibilities are almost limitless!
Which is exactly what so many brides are looking for! Because every wedding is different, teapots have the ability to individualize every couple’s big day. They can capture every mood from an afternoon tea on a spring day on a London to the Mad Hatter and March Hare party in Alice in Wonderland. It truly is an unmatched brilliance, and after viewing all their possibilities, I’m hooked!
If you find yourself hooked as well, feel free to visit TheTeapotShoppe.com or TheEnglishTeaStore.com for more ideas and start purchasing your pots today!
July 6, 2009
Use your engagement pictures, and create a centerpiece worth 1000 words!
Ahhh, centerpieces. Is there any other wedding day detail that has more options? I’m gonna go ahead and say, “N.O.” In fact, there is one movie scene in particular that perfectly describes my state of mind in choosing a centerpiece… I give thee, the “Very Merry Unbirthday” scene from Disney’s Alice in Wonderland. Its attributed chaos captures my current dilemma perfectly.
Sure, sure, I may not be dealing with a Mad Hatter, March Hare, Dormouse (thank goodness) or White Rabbit, but I do have Myself, Two Mothers, Numerous Bridesmaids and One Poor Man (no pun intended) footing the entire bill. Trying to narrow down the choices is like looking at the unbirthday table filled with 23,034,893,098 teapots. The teapots - accurately symbolizing the centerpiece options – are almost limitless, and they’re all great for different reasons. So, how does a bride choose, when her options include (and aren’t even limited to) to the following teapots, errr, centerpieces…
Some are short and stout; while others are tall and slender. Some are round and hearty; while others are square and dainty. Some are filled with vibrant colors; while others look better in not so saturated tones. They can be plain or layered. They can be accompanied by everything from cakes and candles to fun and fireworks. Yet, there are still others that do perfectly well simply by standing alone… I mean the list goes on and on, people!
And we probably shouldn’t forget that the March Hare and Mad Hatter didn’t have a budget, like the majority of us brides do. And depending on the number of guests attending your wedding day extravaganza, the cost can add up quickly. I like to quiet the chaos, however, by remembering things I’ve seen and liked from past weddings. Here are some centerpieces ideas that created the biggest buzz:
- Photo Themes: One bride and groom took pictures of themselves and displayed them in vases at the center of each table. For example, you could have pictures of when you were one, displayed at Table 1. Or you could put good use to all your favorite engagement pictures.
- Flower Themes: I’ve seen many brides and grooms use flowers as stand alone centerpieces, as well as well coordinated decor. Whether you choose to sprinkle rose petals or create a large floral display, there is no denying the eternal presence of flower power.
- “Well Lit” Themes: Nothing says romance like a dimly lit room filled with candles. I like it when couples play with candle heights and wax colors. It adds immediate interest to a reception hall without a lot of preparation or cost.
- Mini Cake Themes: At a friend’s spring wedding, the bride and groom created mini versions of their wedding cake and placed one at the center of each table. This doubled as a centerpiece AND dessert. Not to mention, clean up was a breeze! They were all eaten :)
- Beach Themes: Bring the atmosphere of a destination wedding directly to you! Use fish bowls, seashells, floating candles and sand to create a seaside creation that any city would love! My friends even went as far to place Beta fish in each bowl, because they matched their royal blue color so well.
And because there are just as many centerpiece options as Mad Hatter’s teapots, here are some more sites I’ve found helpful: Do-it-Yourself Centerpiece Options, Better Homes & Gardens Choices and Cheap Wedding Solution Centerpieces. Enjoy, and happy decorating!
June 8, 2009
Next page
