November 20, 2009

Coed Parties

Want to shake up tradition? Instead of separate outings, plan a joint bachelor/bachelorette bash with your friends and his. Buy tickets to a sporting event, reserve a table at a pool hall, or plan a picnic with guys vs. girls games.

November 19, 2009

Scent-sational

Infuse your big day with fragrances by renting a scent machine (from $300, scentevents.com). They are discreetly sized and scent an area up to 2,000 square feet with one cartridge.

November 18, 2009

For Flat Abs

To avoid bloating, stay away from the following foods the day before the wedding: broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, onions, chewing gum, soda, soup, beans, lettuce, brussels sprouts, peas and high-fiber cereals.

November 17, 2009

SCREENING SESSIONS

For your engagement announcement, upload clips of your proposal onto YouTube. Mark the video “private” so only invited viewers can view it.

November 16, 2009

Green Light

Seek out candles made from pure stearin wax for your reception tables. They’re unscented, dripless and derived from a vegetable source rather than petroleum.

November 13, 2009

Table Trend

Forgo the traditional tablecloth-covered tables in favor of bare dark-wood tables. The change will give your reception space an exceptionally rich, warm look.

November 12, 2009

Raw Materials

Think beyond paper. Consider having your invitations printed on squares of colored glass, ceramic tile or pretty fabric.

November 11, 2009

LUSCIOUS LIPS

Lipstick really stays put if you start with a waxy balm (let it sit for 30 minutes); then fill the center of the lips with pencil that matches your lipstick. Apply loose powder over that with a brush, follow with lipstick, and then go back to define the edges with pencil. 

November 10, 2009

In Your Skin

Don’t be afraid to venture away from a crisp white gown. Instead, consider dresses in shades of lemon, ivory or oyster if they better fit your skin tone.

November 9, 2009

His-And-Hers Gifts

Add hobby-based presents to your registry that you can enjoy together as a couple such as cooking classes and mountain bikes.

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.