Wedding Decor | A Special Events and Lifestyle Marketing Boutique

images (19).jpg Although I remember hearing about this story a few years ago, it can still be filed under: deplorable! The young lady, who I think we can appropriately label as the victim, recalled a story of attending a wedding, and not too long after receiving a message from the Bride expressing her dissatisfaction with the $100 wedding gift she received from she and her date. You can read the message for yourself below, but we must warn you: Your blood WILL boil.

“Hi Tanya, how are you? I just want to know is there any reason or dissatisfaction of Mike’s and I wedding that both you and Phil gave 50$ each? In terms of the amount we got from you both was very unexpected as a result we were very much short on paying off the reception because just for the cocktail + reception alone the plate per person is 200$ (as per a normal wedding range with open bar is about) and Mike and I both have already paid for everything else including decor, photography, attire etc and didn’t expect we had to cover that huge amount for reception as well. As I know you both live together and work, so I did not see any reason for that amount, when it comes to your wedding hopefully you’ll know what I mean. I hope for the best as from what we receive is what we will give back. Anyways, good luck on everything.”

Now, I’m not sure if the Bride was aware but the young lady whom she is berating had recently graduate, was only working part-time and didn’t know the couple very well. Regardless, I think it goes without saying that this is a most inappropriate response to any gift.

But….just in case anyone reads this that is unsure, let me take this moment to clarify: there is no rule that states that a guest must give a gift to a party to which they are invited or what they should give. No, not even a wedding. And as the recipient, it is just poor etiquette to question the amount of the gift that is given and you should NEVER rely on gifts to pay off the balance for your wedding vendors.

Thoughts….PLEASE!!!

photo credit: google images

When it comes to wedding trends, the rules of engagement are constantly changing. And for 2017, yet another evolution of wedding planning is upon us. In a recent interview with Brides Magazine, celebrity wedding planner David Tutera recommended these as the coveted en trend details to incorporate into your 2017 wedding.

David says: Ditch The After-Party
While you might be bummed to hear this at first, Tutera really believes guests should stay put, and you can bring the “after-party” to the party. “I want guests to stay in one location, and keep the energy escalating and flowing,” he explains. The wedding is the main event, so why risk losing the party vibes with a venue change? Tutera suggests couples can, “create movement and energy in one environment with lighting, entertainment, opening up a different bar or dessert station, etc.”

SocialBFly says: LOVE this idea and agree on all fronts! It’s the reason why we adore one-venue weddings so much.

David Says: Modern & Industrial Vibes will be En Trend
Tutera forecasts a mix of metallics and whites to top the palette charts of 2017/2018, but forget the golds and shiny silvers. Softer, brushed metallic popping from bright white accents are a color combo made in heaven, and will totally help to achieve those “contemporary yet city hip vibes” that will be so on-trend. Combine this color palate with industrial and modern touches for a fashionable yet classy look.

SocialBFly says: Metallics, when used correctly, can add a romantic edge to any decor motif so we’re heavy metal all the way!!

David says: Stay Connected
Regardless of what trends, themes, or vibes you’re going for, Tutera stresses the importance of remaining connected with your new spouse throughout the wedding day celebrations. “What’s been happening is couples separate to their friends and don’t hang out with their significant other on their celebration. That’s not good. That’s something I am trying to force people to understand is incredibly important.”

SocialBFly says: Noted!

David says: Incorporate Paper
Whether it’s in floral bouquets, incorporated into your big-day décor, or used as a way to preserve special wedding “memory moments,” incorporating paper into your wedding day is quickly growing in popularity — and for good reason. Economical, potentially eco-friendly and unique in any way you use it, paper isn’t just for wedding invitations anymore. Tutera says, “there’s so many interesting things you can do,” and adds, “People are sort of surprised, like oh my gosh, look what you can do with paper.”

SocialBFly says: Paper can add a variety of depth and texture to your wedding motif so this is yet another 2017 trend we are looking forward to.

David says: Ditch Receiving Lines
“I am not a fan of receiving lines,” admits Tutera. He adds, “I think it creates a large barrier of etiquette for that celebration — it’s too formal.” Instead, opt to greet your guests during cocktail hour, and throughout the night. It may not seem like it, but you will have the time.

SocialBFly says: A-GREED!!! Goodness grief, we agree!! There’s nothing that screams old-fashioned more than seeing the Bride and Groom with their bridal party lined up at the end of the ceremony waiting to greet all of the guests who attended. Like David said, IT’S TOO FORMAL!! And we like to make sure that the couples has enough time to personally greet their guests during the reception.

David says: First Looks
These are a keeper. Tutera gushes, “I love first looks. I think they’re brilliant. It takes me forever to convince a bride and groom to do that,” but he adds, “They’re more personal — I love them.”

SocialBFly says: I will forever have mixed feelings about the first look trend. On one hand, it is an awesome way to ensure the couple spends as much time during the wedding and reception having fun interacting with their guests. But the traditionalist in me (YES! the same traditionalist that does not like receiving lines…) will always have a heart that skips a beat when a groom sees his wife take to the aisle for the very first time.

What are your predictions for 2017 weddings and brides? Are there any wedding trends you’d like to see go away? Do you agree/disagree with David (or our) assessment of the future of weddings?