November 6, 2009

Table Topper

Use a long runner (on a banquet table) or a tray (on a round table) as a platform for your flowers and candles—it adds a block of color and defines the space.

November 5, 2009

Midnight Snack

After a night of dancing, many guests will appreciate a late-night bite. Offer mini hamburgers and grilled-cheese sandwiches or milkshakes in tiny milk jugs served with brownies. Your hungry guests will surely thank you.

November 4, 2009

Nostalgic Niceties

Connect with your guests by sharing something from your childhood. Offer a favorite snack such as caramel popcorn or marshmallow twists, or potted flowers from the area where you grew up. Attach a short note to explain the significance.

November 3, 2009

Light Bright

Can’t decide on a wedding color? Celebrity event planner Colin Cowie suggests designing an all-white wedding and using LED lights around the reception room to add color that can be easily changed throughout the night.

November 2, 2009

Post It

Use postcards as a guestbook alternative. Buy packs of vintage-inspired cards and let guests fill them out at the wedding. The result will be colorful, fun and different.

October 30, 2009

Secure Space

Place tall decor elements around the perimeter of the room. High-hung drapes or 15-foot branches in urns impart a sense of coziness and intimacy.

October 29, 2009

Love Letters

Set out a selection of self-addressed and stamped postcards at your reception and ask guests to fill one out during the night. Have a family member collect them and mail a few to you each week.

October 28, 2009

Shine Off

Keep your wedding day glow from looking greasy by applying translucent powder lightly under your eyes and on your nose, chin and forehead.

October 27, 2009

Prime Time

Use a water-based primer on your face before applying cover-up to create a smooth canvas. The clear gel fills in fine lines and pores, giving you exceptionally even skin texture.

October 26, 2009

Eschew Trends

If you use elements that are too of-the-moment, your wedding pictures will look dated next year. Err on the side of more formal and classic.

October 23, 2009

FOCUS ON THE FLOW

If the dance floor is packed come toast time, ask your band or DJ to let the music play longer and delay raising your glasses until there’s downtime.

October 22, 2009

Insider Tip

Number the guest list and the backs of the RSVP cards, in case someone forgets to write in his or her name.

October 21, 2009

Mix and Match

Mix high- and low-end pieces. “The stars have been doing this forever, but the idea is finally starting to be accepted,” explains Project Runway winner and fashion designer Christian Soriano. “If you’re getting married, splurge on the dress, but maybe the headpiece of the veil or the show can be less expensive.”

October 20, 2009

Sparkle and Shine

To make sure your engagement ring is at its sparkliest for your big day, clean it with a mixture of six parts water and one part ammonia. Use a soft-bristle brush to make it really shine.

October 19, 2009

Wedding Logos

Move beyond monograms and create a decorative logo to "brand" your wedding. Designs can be based on your initials, but can also incorporate your hobbies and interests. Use your personalized logo on save-the-dates, invitations, napkins, table decor and more.