March 9, 2010

Art Direct Your Wedding Photos

From the “why didn’t they think of this sooner?” file: Picnik.com, a photo-editing site, lets you crop and retouch right from your browser. It’s compatible with sites like Facebook, so you can grab your friend’s ultra-unflattering shot of you sweating on the dance floor, fix it up, and have her upload—no one will be the wiser.

March 8, 2010

BLAST FROM THE PAST

Dress up a dessert that was significant from your childhood, such as Twinkies or Ring Dings, for a modern twist on cake alternatives.

March 5, 2010

Themed Stems

Tie his boutonniere into your theme—a seashell brings nautical decor full circle, while a crisp maple leaf celebrates autumn.

March 4, 2010

SHOWER YOURSELF IN SHOWERS

It can be complicated and expensive to throw one bridal shower that brings together the important women from all facets of your life. Instead, have multiple showers. For example, your aunt hosts the family and parents’ friends; your best friend hosts the girls; and your boss hosts one at the office for co-workers.

March 3, 2010

Charitable Treats

Socially conscious couples take note: Serving sweets at your wedding can give more than a sugar high. Bake Me a Wish! donates 5 percent of each purchase of their cakes to the Make-a-Wish Foundation. And 10 percent of the proceeds from Endangered Species Chocolate benefit the Ocean Conservancy.

March 2, 2010

Sure Fire Hits

Make sure the dance floor is packed by asking invitees to jot down three favorite songs on the RSVP card; give your DJ the playlist.

March 1, 2010

SLEEVE IT

The once “so over” trend of sleeves is finally back. Try a positively stunning gown with the comeback style in tulle or silk.

February 26, 2010

Good Cents

Consider purchasing private event insurance for your wedding day to cover yourself in case of bad weather, illness or vendor no-shows.

February 25, 2010

Petal Notes

If corn can become gas, why can’t flowers become a thank-you note? Pack up your bouquet and send it to FloralNotes.com; in return, you’ll get a batch of note cards made from the petals.

February 24, 2010

Insure Away

After calling your parents and best buds to share the exciting news of your engagement, make sure to call your insurance company. Put your ring on your homeowner's policy as soon as possible in case something happens to it. Your fiancé should have a certificate of appraisal so you know what rate to insure it at. And don't forget to renew the policy every year.

February 23, 2010

Birthday Book

In lieu of a traditional guest book, pick out a pretty planner or date book and ask guests to sign on their birthday page. You’ll learn who among your friends and family shares a special day—and have a future record too!

February 22, 2010

Closet Clues

Before you go shopping for your dress, take a long, hard look in your closet—the styles you've been buying for years (ruffles, A-lines) will give you clues as to what kinds of shapes to look for.

February 19, 2010

Pretty Enough to Eat

Cut down on wedding planning by choosing favors that can double as place cards or decorations. A personalized bottle of wine can serve as a place card, and stacked boxes of edible treats can decorate your reception venue.

February 18, 2010

Hand-wash

Wash your face with your hands, which are less harsh on skin than a washcloth. The idea is to remove dirt, oil and makeup—going for "squeaky clean" means you're stripping skin of its natural oils.