Fall Wedding Inspiration

Halloween is over, and with a chill in the air, it feels as though fall has finally arrived. Fall is hands down my favorite season, so I personally could not be more thrilled. And whether you're planning your nuptials stateside or below the border, there's no reason not to celebrate your fall wedding with deep autumn colors and food and decorations that are fit for the fall months. The Wedding Chicks seem to be on a roll. When hunting down fall wedding inspiration, I absolutely fell in love with their gorgeous ideas for a glamorous fall wedding. Cider? Caramel? Decorative gourds? Yes please! And might I add that I love me a decorative gourd display. Furthermore, the adorable "Fall in Love" wall display would make for a perfect backdrop for photos. Who needs a photo booth when you have this?!

Photo Credit: The Wedding Chicks

Destination Wedding Spotlight - Baja California

Baja California, known for its pristine beauty and multitude of activities, Baja has become one of the most desirable travel destinations throughout Mexico. When considering locations for a wedding south of the border, Baja certainly tops the list. I've featured this location on the blog in the past, and today I wanted to highlight this video which offers all that Baja has to offer. Not only is it a wonderful location for a beach wedding, but it is sure to keep your guests entertained from the moment they arrive until they leave.

Great Wedding Cake Trends to Consider

For some brides, the wedding cake is one of the key components to making your wedding day exactly what you'd always imagined. I will certainly be one of those brides. So I loved these suggestions that I found from The Knot on wedding cake trends that really stood out. Here are a few of my favorites!

1. Buttercream-frosted Cake: Keep it simple. As The Knot says, there's nothing more irresistible than buttercream frosting piped on thick -- so true!

2. A Chocolate Wedding Cake: Doesn't it seem like traditional wedding cakes are always iced with white or cream frosting, and that chocolate iced cakes are reserved for the groom's cake? This does NOT have to be the case!

3. A Cake Modeled After the Gown or Veil: Here's a trend that I haven't seen before...and love! In the picture attached, the fondant-iced cake had lace designs and silver and pearl accents.

Lantern Release - Beach Wedding Inspiration

I love the idea of releasing these floating lanterns after a romantic beach wedding -- who doesn't love a fun activity like this to break up the reception? Check out these and other great pictures from destinationinspirations.com!

Rehearsal Dinner Fiesta Inspiration

I loved this inspiration board fro The Sweetest Occasion for a great rehearsal dinner fiesta! Flags and paper lanterns hanging from palm trees, dining al fresco with your feet in the sand and the sounds of the ocean and acoustic guitar in the background…this looks like the perfect way to kick off a laid back beach wedding weekend!

Planning the Perfect Beach Wedding: The Reception!

Over the past two days We've gone over tips for dressing appropriately at your beach wedding, and how to make the most of your ceremony. To wrap up, I wanted to include the final segment from Destination Wedding Magazine: The Reception!

Anchor decor. Wind can topple tall floral arrangements, blow out candles and send other table elements flying. “Stay away from glass vases, which can easily break in the sand,” warns Bussen. If tall centerpieces are your dream, Helmstetter recommends having the florist secure them to the table with heavy objects. “She can always cover these mechanics by lining the vases with ti leaves, palms or other natural elements.” For lighting, “use hurricane-style lanterns or LED candles, which are flameless and longlasting,” says Bussen. When wind-proofing place cards and favors, a little creativity can go a long way. “Tie sea horses to each place card,” Helmstetter suggests, “and weigh your menus and napkins down with maracas or coconut shells.”

Rent a powder room. If marrying on a public beach, find out if there are bathrooms. If not, Natalie John of Dreamy Weddings & Tours suggests, “Hire an upscale portable lavatory for a few hours, especially if there will be lots of drinking during the reception.”

Keep warm. To help you and your guests fight a wind chill, Bussen advises, “Arrange a basket of comfy, color-coordinated pashminas to warm ladies’ shoulders.”

Planning the Perfect Beach Wedding: The Ceremony!

Yesterday, I featured tips from Destination Wedding Magazine on how to dress accordingly for the perfect beach wedding. Today I wanted to include some great guidelines for ways to make the most of your destination wedding: At the Ceremony!

Photo Credit: Tim Otto Photography

Stay natural. A gorgeous ocean backdrop doesn’t need to be too dressed up. Instead, highlight the natural beauty of the setting. “A beach wedding can be about shells and starfish, but it can also take inspiration from the harmonious color palette of sand, dune grasses, stones and water,” says Karen Bussen of Simple Stunning in New York. “Decor should be simple; avoid going over the top with fussy flowers.”

Add color. To make your setup really pop, Sasha Souza of Sasha Souza Events suggests, “Choose colors that contrast the sand and the surf rather than blend in, like corals, greens and other vibrant tones.”

Go local. Celebrity-wedding planner Colin Cowie recommends hiring local vendors as much as possible. “Otherwise you might find your favors or chair covers stuck in customs.” Tracey Kumer-Moore of Your Las Vegas Wedding Concierge adds, “When it comes to food, look for caterers who are conscientious of local markets and respectful of the beach environment.”

Studio 563 Destination Wedding Pictures

Today I stumbled across some destination photos that I just fell in love with. Studio 563 did a superb job capturing the joy of this couple, and just what a fun time they all had south of the border! 

Studio 563 made an understatement saying that great destination wedding takes a ton of preparation. "The pre-wedding events can be just as amazing with some amazing memories made," says the site -- and I couldn't agree more! Mandy Millen with Every Little Detail Weddings & Events put on this wedding's events, and these events certainly looked like a blast. Follow the link below to check out the Welcome Reception, Tequila Tasting and Rehearsal Dinner.

Check out the pictures at Studio 563! 

Planning the Perfect Beach Wedding: Dress Accordingly!

Many people choose to go the beach wedding route to lower stress, and ensure that their wedding is about exactly what it should be -- having the time of their life with their future spouse, and closest friends and family. That said, there are certain unique things to keep in mind when planning for a destination wedding. Destination Wedding Magazine provides a great list of tips and suggestions for planning the perfect destination wedding. Over the next few days, I'll be going over different components of planning such an event. To start: Dress Accordingly

Skip the big dress. Let’s face it: A ballgown belongs in, well, a ballroom. “You may be able to get down the aisle in a full dress and long train,” notes Paulette Davis of Bahamas Wedding Planner, “but walking on the beach and taking photos won’t be easy. If a large dress is a must, make sure it can bustle easily.”

Think light. “Dresses with lace trim can be difficult because they pick up debris from the beach,” says Kate Bentley of Happily Ever After Wedding Planning & Design in Key West, Florida. “Instead, choose a lightweight fabric like chiffon or charmeuse so your gown flows in the ocean breeze.”

Nix the veil. “When marrying outside, think twice about a long veil,” cautions Stacy Mulcare of Ceremonies of St. John. “If it’s windy, it will be a nightmare for you and the photographer.” Instead, accessorize your ’do with fresh flowers or a fascinator.

Consider a Gastro-truck Catering Option for your Wedding

Para ti Novia made a great discover in Juan Miron’s incredible Gastro-truck MIHO GASTROTRUCK.

What's so great about Catering Trucks?
First of all, they can go anywhere! So whether you are in the desert, or on a beach, these catering trucks can pull up right beside your guests. As Para ti Novia said, these trucks are all over the Food Network. In fact, Los Angeles, CA recently was home to one of the first lunch truck competitions!

Starters:
These are some of Para ti Novia's suggestions for hand-passed starters that make amazing late night starters for your guests as you take your party into the breakfast hour. Think of this as sort of fun messy finger foods!

• Barbacoa tacos
• Black bean tostadas

The Meal:

• Grass-fed Harrissa Burgers
• Pull Pork Belly Sandwick

Sides:

• Belgian Fries

3-D Save-the-Dates - Destination Wedding Save-the-Dates - Destination Weddings - MarthaStewartWeddings.com

Destination Wedding Save-the-Dates - MarthaStewartWeddings.com: Destination Wedding Save-the-Dates are a great chance to be creative and have fun with planning your destination wedding. Here are some great ideas for fun save-the-dates for your Mexico wedding!

3-D Save-the-Dates
Sure, you could hire a plane to trail an aerial banner broadcasting your wedding date, and invite your friends and family over to watch it fly by. But posting these 3-D announcements is far more practical (and just as creative). Plus, your invitees will love opening the tiny envelope to reveal your happy news. While the airplane motif is apt for a destination wedding, these cards are also suited for local celebrations. The Details: Bird & Banner save-the-dates. Postage from Champion Stamp Co.


Postcard Save-the-Dates
For a destination event, this is one of the first steps in the process. After all, your guests have a trip to book! Inform them of your plans about six months before the big day. Choose a card that captures the spirit of your location and also provides plenty of space for important travel information. One of these colorful retro-inspired announcements is just the ticket. Lab Partners for Hello!Lucky save-the-date cards.

Check out more details on this and other interesting ideas for destination wedding save-the-dates from Martha Stewart Weddings].

'via Blog this'

Eco-Friendly Wedding in Mexico

Eco-tourism is becoming increasingly popular in recent years, and many couples are choosing to participate in this by having an eco-friendly wedding. If you have this goal in mind, and are planning for your destination wedding in Mexico, consider Taninah -- which means "first home" in Mayan. It is a stunning gated jungle retreat that spans 10 acres across the Riviera Maya. Read more about Taninah and eco-tourism for your destination wedding at MexicoToday!

Mexico Wedding | Des and Cary

Love these stunning photos from this couples destination wedding. Des and Cary exchanged vows south of the border, with photography by Lise & Eirik. Here are some pictures of their wedding in Mexico for inspiration!

Photo Credit: December Photography

First Mexican Hotel in Querétaro Welcomes Guests (Via Mexico Today)

Looking for a unique and stunning location for your destination wedding? You'll love this suggestion! DoubleTree is announcing its first Mexican hotel in Querétaro, Mexico. It is located near the Querétaro Convention Center and the La Corregidora football stadium. Each room has 42 inch flat screen TVs with international channels, safes, work desks, tea, and coffee. The hotel has many amenities, including a pool, a fitness center, in room dining, valet services, laundry services, concierge services, and travel desk services. Read the full story from Mexico Today!

Wedding Money: Who's Footing the Bill? - Wedding Planning - Wedding Budget - TheKnot.com

Wedding Money: Who's Footing the Bill? - Wedding Planning - Wedding Budget - TheKnot.com: These days, the cost of a wedding makes a year at Harvard and Yale look affordable. How are you going to scrape together the bucks so you can have the bash you want? Put that idea about sticking up the Federal Reserve on hold. You have options -- legal, time-honored, respectable options. The kind of options that, unless you're in the habit of bouncing checks, won't land you behind bars. Here's a rundown of some of them, plus their pros and cons. Keep in mind that a combination of two or more may be how you end up getting your wedding paid for.

The Bride's Parents Pay
The traditional -- and still pretty popular -- way of paying for the wedding.

The Pros:
You don't have to dip into your nest egg to pay for the wedding, which means you'll probably be driving a better car, buying a better house and taking better vacations a year from now than your contemporaries who are paying -- in full or partially -- for their own wedding.

The Cons:"The person who pays ultimately gets what he or she wants," says JoAnn Gregoli, a wedding consultant and owner of Elegant Occasions in Denville, New Jersey. Which means that if you want 100 guests but your parents want 250, you'll probably end up with at least 175 to 200 people at your wedding. "Having your parents pay for the wedding doesn't hurt your wallet," notes Gregoli, "but you have to be willing to compromise on what the wedding will be like." Another downside: Having your parents pay for the wedding -- especially if they're retired, on a fixed income, or just not that well off to begin with -- could strap them down with some major debt.

Amansala Eco-Chic Resort in Tulum!

Are you looking for a gorgeous and eco-friendly location for an intimate destination wedding? I feel in love with the pictures and descriptions of Amansala, an eco-chic resort in Tulum. Aside from the stunning resort, Tulum is considered to be hands down one of the most tranquila and beautiful locations in Mexico. And for those yoga-loving couples, squeeze in a little yoga practice to calm your nerves before the big day! Check out these pictures of the beautiful resort!

Mexico Wedding Inspiration - Purple!

Purple has always been one of my favorite colors. My room was purple as a kid, and I frequently have shades of lavender or purple incorporated into my wardrobe for the day. It also happens to be one of my favorite wedding colors. I specifically love purple for a destination wedding in the fall or winter months. It's a warm fall appropriate color, but still manages to tie in a sunny tropical feel. Check out this inspiration board with some great ideas for a purple accented wedding!

Mexican Sodas, A Fun Way to Incorporate Your Destination or Theme!

I'm always talking about how much I enjoy fun ideas that further incorporate Mexican flavor into a destination or Mexican themed wedding -- ranging from food to decorations to traditions, I think it's a wonderful way to honor the culture that you are celebrating with your wedding. One idea that I really love is serving delicious Mexican soft drinks to your guests. Not only is this an easy and inexpensive treat that will be aesthetically pleasing, but they're delicious! Add a touch of color by distributing various shades of Jarritos soda to guests, if you want to add a special touch try customizing the colors based on wedding theme. Also, who doesn't love real Mexican Coke in the glass bottles? For those that think it's no difference, think again. The trick is that it's made with real sugar, adding that extra flavor and crisp. A fun additional touch for this idea is to somehow merge the bottles into name settings. The sky is the limit!

Photo Credit: Heavenly Blooms Blog

Photo Credit: Style Unveiled

Jewelry: Alternative Bridal Options from Catbird - The Bride's Guide : Martha Stewart Weddings

Jewelry: Alternative Bridal Options from Catbird - The Bride's Guide : Martha Stewart Weddings: We've sung the praises of Catbird's neat offerings before, and today is no different. The boutique, specializing in designs by independent artisans, has a selection of unique baubles that never fail to inspire or surprise me.

Check out these beautiful 14k rose gold ant earrings, frog foot and pearl necklace, and hunting cufflinks? Yes, please! Wouldn't they make neat bridesmaid and groomsmen gifts? Or what about these?

And for brides-to-be, the offerings of nontraditional engagement rings and wedding bands is perfect for the girl who fancies something a little offbeat. Aren't these lovely? ... Read More 

"About Love" Wedding Planners in Los Cabos, Mexico

Take a look at this video by the dedicated team from "About Love" wedding planners in Los Cabos, a group that is eager to make your weddingday a dream wedding at a dream wedding destination. Los Cabos, Mexico remains one of the top destination wedding locations, and for good reason! This video provides some great inspiration for a destination wedding in Los Cabos. Take a look!

Environmentally Sustainable Mexican Resort Isla Amaitlán Breaks Ground

Are you planning your destination wedding in Mexico, and looking for a venue that is environmentally sustainable? Look no further! The beginning stages of planning and building have begun for this gorgeous $120 million resort on Isla de la Piedra. Check out the full story on this gorgeous environmentally friendly resort, from Mexico Today.

Wedding Trailer - Mexico!

I love the dramatic "movie trailer" for this real life Mexico wedding. Take a look and enjoy!

Thania & Luis (Inicio) from MVBpro.com on Vimeo.

Mexico: Cancun | Mayan Ruins, Resorts & 'Ritas - TheKnot.com

Mexico: Cancun | Mayan Ruins, Resorts & 'Ritas - TheKnot.com: "Seemingly carved out of the jungle, Cancun sits at the tip of Mexico's Yucatan peninsula, twinkling with big resorts and a boisterous nightlife. Ancient Indian cities and beautiful palm-fringed beaches compete for your attention during the sun-soaked days; the nights steam up with delicious food, tantalizing margaritas, and smokin' disco DJs.

Why We'd Go: Three Features You'll Never Forget
Isla Mujeres: Hop a day or night cruise to the laid-back "Island of Women," where ancient Mayans worshipped Ixchel, goddess of rainbows, fertility, and childbirth. Lounge under a grass palapa on lovely Playa Norte beach, or head south on a moped or golf cart to swim with dolphins at Dolphin Discovery, or visit the Tortuga Marina Turtle Farm.

Wedding Destination: American Attends a Perfect Destination Wedding in Mexico

Mexico has become one of the foremost locations in the world for destination weddings. Take a look at this video from Mexico Today, highlighting one tourists wonderful experience at a destination wedding south of the border!

How Do You Feel About Mexico's Proposed 2-Year Marriage License?

Everyone's buzzing recently about the fact that lawmakers in Mexico City are proposing a new marriage license which would allow couples to split after a two-year trial period, rather than going through a lengthier divorce process.

With the implementation of this law, instead of the traditional 'till death to us part,' couples would be able to opt for temporary commitments, test out married life, and then renew their licenses indefinitely if they are still devoted to their chosen spouse.

"Two years is the minimum amount of time it takes to know and appreciate what life is like as a couple," Lizbeth Rosas, who is spearheading the proposed legislation said to BBC Mundo in Spanish. "If you renew, that means you have an understanding with your partner, and that you are clear on the rules of the relationship. So what do you think? Is this an inspired idea to lower the rate of divorce, or does it decrease the sanctity of marriage?

Destination Wedding Etiquette: Creating the Guest List

Your wedding is all about you, so invite as many or as few people as you want to your destination wedding, but you can't expect all guests to be able to afford the trip south of the border. Furthermore, because it is an especially large time commitment, this will likely cross people off the list as well. Be realistic -- consider whether you want a large amount of extended family and friends at your destination wedding, or if you would rather have an intimate gathering with immediate family and cose friends. Don't forget the last etiquette advice I gave, suggesting a second reception or party back home to bring in those that weren't invited or couldn't make the trip.

When creating the list, include close friends and family that you would want there even if they have specifically told you they can't make it. It's still nice to be included, and furthermore, plans sometimes change and allow people to go that didn't initially think they would be able to. For most non destination weddings, you would likely skip invitations for colleagues or casual acquaintances who've said they can't come—or you might look like you are just pushing for presents. You could send them wedding announcements or second reception invitations instead, which don t require the recipient to buy a gift. Destination weddings, on the other hand, are  generally small affairs for close friends and relatives in the first place, so do send invitations to the whole save-the-date list.