But what if that’s not the case?

Sometimes, you just want to spoil the people around you. Think about it. If you have the money and the means to go all flashy during your wedding, why not? And even better, why not include your groomsmen in the mix? These people have sacrificed their time, money, and other resources to make your day a success.

You need to spend big on their gifts.

And by spending big, we’re talking about almost breaking your bank account. If you are that kind of guy, and you’re looking for pricey groomsmen gift ideas, then this is the piece for you. None of what you’ll see here will go below $100 a piece – and others will be way beyond that mark.

Which ones?

Read on to find out.

The Golden Yellow Money Clip - $945

Rich is gold and there’s no better way to start this extravagant list than with a gold money clip that costs a whopping $945. Yes, you read that right.

But why buy this gift?

Well, if you have rich groomsmen who have a big struggle holding their money, papers, cards, or other items together, then this is the gift for them.

And no, it’s not overpriced.

This jewel is crafted out of actual polished 14k yellow gold.

Feeling rich enough?

Buy it now at modesens.com

Escentric Molecules Perfume - $135

Let’s pull the bar a bit lower for this one. And thankfully, buying just one of these won’t leave a permanent dent in your bank account.

The Molecule 01 Eau de Toilette is a uniquely crafted perfume for men, that is designed to stand tall amid high ranking designer perfumes. If you want your groomsmen to walk around with a unique scent – velvety, sandalwood-like, then this is the perfect choice for you.

Who knows? Maybe one of them might land a chic by donning this on your wedding night.

Buy it now at neimanmarcus.com

Highly Classic Waterbury Leather Strap Watch - $105

This is yet another item that won’t leave a huge dent, but you’ll feel it once you’ve bought each of your 6 groomsmen one.

This classic watch is a beautiful embodiment of simplicity and class. A product of Timex, the silver head strapped onto the brown leather gives this watch quite an elegant look. What’s even better is that it can be worn by almost anything. Thus, you’ll be sure this is one item you’ll find your boys wearing almost every other day.

But it now at timex.com

Silver Engravable Cufflinks - $150

$150 for a single pair of cufflinks? Yes.

The sterling silver engravable cufflinks are the epitome of men’s accessories and design. Coming in pure silver, these soft square cufflinks are highly customizable with the options of engraving your name or initials on the cufflinks. Even better, you get to choose the font and whether each side should have different engravings.

And just so you know, $150 is the base price. For the initials, an extra $8 is charged with the initials not being more than 8 characters long.

Buy it now at cufflinks.com

Sterling Silver Shoe Horn - $325

Quality shoes should be worn using quality shoe horns. And that’s what you’ll get with this sterling silver shoe horn. For your sophisticated groomsmen who are fashion aficionados, this will be the perfect gift for them.

The design was crafted in Italy – which makes this gift even more special.

Buy it now at tiffany.com

Handcrafted Leather Domino Set - $820

If your groomsmen love board games, then this will be the perfect gift for them. This handcrafted leather domino set is made out of beautiful geometric lines, handcrafted leather for the box, with storage and playing trays being made out of Canaletto walnut.

And just like the shoe horn, this one was made in Italy too.

Buy it now at artemest.com

Personalized Flask and Poker Game Set – $111.31

The boys must want a beer or scotch whiskey over a game of poker. And with this set, you get just that.

This gift box comes with 4, personalized, stainless steel flasks, 4 stainless steel shot glasses, 100 poker chips, 1 deck of cards, 2 stainless steel bowls for keeping snacks, and 4 stainless steel dice. In short, it’s a proper game night package.

Buy it now at groomsmengiftsource

Ray-Ban Sunglasses - $153

A pair of shades is hardly this expensive. But given they are Ray-bans, that price is justified.

But what’s good about them?

Apart from making your groomsmen look younger, hip, and sexier, these Ray-bans offer 100% UV protection, have durable acetate frames, and reduce eye strain. And if you’re wondering where the customizability comes in, well you can order these in different frames and lens colors.

Buy it now at amazon.com

Hot Bomber Jackets - $220

This bomber jacket will beat the cold but end up blowing your bank account into pieces, once every groomsman has one.

However, it will rock their fashion world.

And not just theirs, but for their better halves too, if they’ve got one – given these bomber jackets are unisex. There is a brass zipper upfront and one at the sides, thus you can always tuck tight and avoid the cold.

Better still, the customizable back is written out of embroidery and not some iffy ink.

Buy it now at shopdeparture.com

Shiny Silver Chef Knife - $124

That much for a Chef’s knife? Yes. And if your groomsmen love culinary arts, then this will be a winner.

According to the knife’s manufacturer, this knife is “perfectly balanced” for a chef’s work – didn’t know that was a thing. It’s also lightweight, with the blade having been made out of not your ordinary stainless steel but high-tech molybdenum/vanadium stainless steel.

The handle is also made out of stainless steel but molded for comfort.

What’s even better is that this knife comes with a lifetime warranty in case of breakage and defects.

But it now at amazon.com

Image source: Pexels

Get your Beauty Sleep

You don’t want to look and feel exhausted on your special day! Getting enough sleep can be difficult when you have pre-wedding jitters - but you must prioritise proper rest to get that natural glow. In the weeks leading up to the wedding, stick to the same evening routine. Try to get the recommended 8 hours of sleep per night. This will give you the energy needed to get through the stressful wedding period with a big smile on your face!

Hydration

Dehydration causes dry skin and can make you feel awful all around. Make sure you’re drinking at least 2-4 litres of water a day. This amount may seem like a lot, but will make all the difference to your health. Eating water-heavy foods like watermelon, grapefruits, and lettuce will also help to hydrate your skin.

Exercise Regularly

Obviously, you’ll want to be in good shape for your wedding. This means building up an appropriate fitness routinelong before the wedding. Keep a log of your activity to track your progress.

Image source: Unsplash

Regular exercise improves your body image and also has amazing benefits for your skin. Working out causes you to sweat, which allows your body to flush out impurities. This will keep your skin looking clean, smooth and fresh. It also helps that exercise is a natural stress reliever; we all know how stressful weddings can be.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

Along with a regular exercise routine, it’s essential to maintain a healthy diet. The foods and drinks you consume havea profound effect on your skin’s appearance. Do your best to avoid spicy food, coffee, cigarettes, fatty and salty foods, as these generally aren’t good for your skin or your general health. Instead, choose fresh greens, fruits, lean protein and lots of vitamin C. Omega-3 fatty acids are also important for maintaining good skin health. They help to moisturise the skin and reduce inflammation. You can find this in foods like salmon and mackerel. In terms of healthy drinks, try green juice. Its antioxidant properties have amazing benefits for your skin.

Stick to a Skin Care Routine

Last but not least, you’re going to need to maintain a regular skin care routine. You can’t get that natural glow without taking proper care of your skin! Ideally, you should start prepping your skin at least 3 months before the wedding. This will give your skin enough time to get ready before the big day. 

Image source: Unsplash

The first rule of a good skin routine - always remove your makeup before bed. Leaving your makeup on all night can cause clogged pores and breakouts, which no one wants on their wedding day! Ensure you clean your makeup brushes regularly as well.

Once you’ve taken off your make up, wash your face gently and thoroughly. If you’re prone to dry skin, opt for natural moisturisers and cleansers. Always do proper research about your skin products. It’s important to find the products that work for your skin type. Keep up your skin routine every night, following the same steps in the morning. Staying consistent with your routine is key. Don’t forget to wear sunscreen whenever you’re exposed to the sun. 

Author’s bio:

Harper is a Kiwi wordsmith residing in Auckland, New Zealand. Spending long hours in front of the computer makes her hugely appreciative of any change in scenery – especially the outdoor kind! Her hobbies include hiking and camping. Learn more about Harper and her work on her personal blog.

Image Source: Unsplash

Are you planning a wedding, but self-conscious about the impact it will have on the environment? Planning a wedding can often be overwhelming in itself with the number of decisions you have to make. However, making the best day of your life an eco-friendly one may be easier than you think. These 11 tips will give insight into creating an eco-friendly wedding. 

“Guest writer Harper Reid truly cares about the environment and protecting it, which is why she thinks of various ways to keep it sustainable. Continue reading for some great ideas on how to have an eco-friendly wedding!”

Reach out to local suppliers

Choosing local suppliers preserves our Earth’s precious resources. Less energy, fuel and time will be wasted transporting your decor. Do some research and find local caterers that place importance on using organic and local produce. Not only will you be supporting local businesses, but the food will also be more delicious! 

When deciding on flowers, try and find florists in your area. You’d be surprised at how often flowers are flown in from overseas to create a perfect bouquet. Not only will you be able to choose organic flowers in season, but your flowers will have an added personal touch! Be sure to request that floral foam is not used as it is not biodegradable. Instead, opt for eco-friendly options like chicken wire or selecting suitable vases.

Hire a wedding planner

This isn’t a tip specifically for an eco-friendly wedding, but a wedding planner will make your life a whole lot easier. They’ll listen to what you want for your big day and source the best eco-friendly vendors in the industry. They’ll save the day if there are any last-minute hiccups, so you can just worry about you. It’s your big day, after all. 

Image Source: Pexels

Choose a convenient location

Travelling will be one of the biggest contributors to your wedding’s carbon footprint. Choose a location close to you and your guests to reduce travel time. For a beach wedding or ceremony located near a river, enquire whether you could arrive via boat. What a unique way to make an entrance!

Another option is to choose an eco-friendly form of transport. You can hire a coach to transport all your guests from the wedding to the reception venue to reduce fuel consumption. For those who enjoy a drink or two, this will be super convenient. There will be no need to nominate a sober driver.

Lighting

If you want to avoid lighting altogether, opt for a daytime wedding, and make use of the sunlight. As an added bonus you’ll be able to take some stunning photos using natural light. If you prefer having an indoor wedding, look into venues that have a lot of natural light and windows- this will save having to turn on lights during the ceremony. 

Pick an interesting venue

One great way to have an eco-friendly wedding is to go alfresco. Set up both your ceremony and reception outside. For indoor weddings, there are plenty of great choices. For something unique, choose a venue with built-in decor such as an art gallery or a botanic garden. This will save you from having to buy décor. If the venue allows it, you can even take some stunning photos with the art.

Image Source: Unsplash

Rent everything you can

The decor will be the biggest causes of physical waste, so renting is a great alternative. Opt for pot plants as table toppers and rent your wedding dress, jewellery, table linens and pitchers.

Go paperless

With technology nowadays, there’s no limit to what you can create. Substitute a wedding invitation for an e-invite. Send guests a short video as an invite to your wedding.

For a menu substitute, write on a chalkboard and place it outside the reception area. For an alternative to a program, project lyrics onto a wall. 

Eco-friendly guest registry

Choose a company that supports your mission of sustainability. Request sustainable items with recyclable packaging. Some great products include reusable straws, coffee cups and cupcake liners.

Image Source: Unsplash

Eco-friendly wedding favours and name cards

Switch out sweet wrappers and cellophane gift bags for recyclable paper bags. Giving guests a seedling is a great way to give back to the environment. Your guests will appreciate your favour for years to come. The seedling also symbolises a new beginning- so it’s a great symbolic and eco-friendly way for guests to have a reminder of your big day. 

Other great ideas include gifts in a reusable glass jar. Homemade jams, body scrubs and brownie mixes are excellent options. Instead of a name card, you could bake a cookie for each guest and write their name using frosting! What a creative and delicious way to tell your guests where they’re sitting!

Creative writer Harper has done various works for blogs and sites, including Kiwi site About Giving. Harper is an advocate for sustainable living, and loves to see the innovative ways people incorporate eco-friendly living into their special events and occasions! Say a quick hello to Harper on Tumblr.

Thank you very much to our guest writer, Katie, for contributing the fantastic article! Continue reading for some great ideas on how to spice up your table decor.

Your wedding is the perfect opportunity to discover the artist within and create unforgettable decor for your guests. For those who are looking for some tablescape inspiration, we’ve included our top ideas for dinnerware and settings to get your creative juices flowing.

Find Inspiration from the Season

When choosing a color scheme for your decor and tableware, consider taking inspiration from the season. Spring and summer events will invariably feature colorful flowers and leafy boughs, along with vivid, lively colors and pitchers of refreshing fruit drinks.

Fall gatherings can look absolutely magnificent with rich browns, reds, oranges, and yellows. Get creative with some leaves, pine cones, pumpkins, and nuts for a decorative centerpiece. You can also place some strategic wooden accents along the table, laden with smoked cheeses and meats. Dot a row of flickering candles down this harvest-inspired table setting for a warm, inviting atmosphere.

For a chic and elegant reception during the colder months, consider these classy color schemes for a winter wedding and line your tablescapes with fairy lights. A self-serve hot chocolate bar will be sure to keep your guests warm and toasty while they celebrate with you on your special day.

Elevate Your Theme with Hand-Printed Linen

Once you’ve chosen a color theme, consider laying your tables with bright and cheery hand block printed table linen. These artistic prints make your setting unique and colorful.

Choose from a selection of vibrant fruit prints to go with a spring theme or flowers in subdued tones for fall and winter. Couples taking their vows by the beach can take advantage of coastal-themed prints—including palm trees, fish, and lobster designs. By purchasing something handmade, you know you are investing in ethical, quality craftsmanship.

Add Some Earthy Accents

Now to the tableware. For a wedding, you’ll want the plates, cutlery, and serving dishes to be elegant and minimalist while fitting within your budget. It’s also a plus if your settings can be biodegradable or reusable to make your celebration an eco-friendly event.

Elegant One-Use Plates and Cutlery

To give your tablescape a refined but earthy feel, consider using disposable, eco-friendly plates and cutlery. These innovative, chic plates and utensils are made from bamboo, wood, sugarcane, and palm leaf, and are 100% biodegradable. That means that you can throw them in the trash or in the compost afterward and save on washing up!

Classy Second-Hand Antiques

If you prefer washable tableware or serving trays, you can add a touch of class with upcycled antique platters from your grandmother’s kitchen cabinet or second-hand antique fairs around town. Each table can feature a tray or china tea set, giving it a unique character and feel.

Before the day even arrives, you can save on paper by using green alternatives to RSVP cards. These handy services compile your guest list while leaving our forests intact.

Create a Tablescape that Gives Back

After the night is over, what can you do with all your decorations? There are a number of options for reducing waste and passing the joy forward with your trendy settings:

1. Have your guests take your centerpieces home by giving small potted plants as wedding favors.

2. Give a donation to a charity of your choice on behalf of your guests. This can solve the problem of what to give as a take-home gift and prevents these from being left behind.

3. Donate your table decorations to a local charity or goodwill store so they can be enjoyed again by someone else!

For more ideas on how to incorporate a spirit of generosity into your happy day, check out this blog on Weddings that Give Back.

There are so many possibilities for a tablescape that’s trendy and unique. Enjoy the design process and remember that your wedding day is the beginning of a new adventure!

Author Bio: Katie Tejada is a writer, editor and a fan of the eco-friendly. She is a former HR professional who, in addition to writing about the latest developments in business communication, recruiting, and CRM solutions, covers trends in event planning and weddings.    

When you get married, you are doing two things. One, you are forming a lifetime bond with your partner, and two, you’re throwing an awesome party for you and all of the closest people in your lives. Having a wedding that will leave an impression in your guests is very important. One sure fire way to keep them reminiscing on your special day is the wedding favors you send them home with. That being said, we understand how there are plenty of other things you should probably be focusing your attention on.

Weddings and ceremonies are supposed to be a time of happiness and celebration where everyone is having fun, people are coming together, and where laughter and smiles should be seen and heard at every corner. So why are they so stressful and chaotic to put together? We want to make this as joyful and pleasant of an experience as possible, so we saved you the trouble and put together our thoughts on 9 Winter Wedding Favors for all of you snow bunnies planning on tying the knot this upcoming season.

Framed Pressed Flowers

Not only are flowers a symbol for beauty and life, but they are also a symbol for growth and unity. Give your guests a reminder of the true and honest reason why you all got together. To watch the union of two soulmates pronounce their bond for each other through better or worse. These Framed Pressed Flowers are a unique and tasteful way to give your guests flowers that will last and not die through the winter seasons.

Hot Chocolate Mix

You don’t need anyone to tell you that there isn’t anything better than a nice warm cup of Hot Chocolate on a cold snowy afternoon. Send your guests home with these cute and quaint Hot Chocolate Mason Jar Mixes, that will have your guests wrapped up in a warm blanket by the fire with their favorite slippers on drinking their new favorite hot chocolate.

DIY Soup Kits

Okay so, there might not be anything that beats a cup of hot chocolate on a snowy afternoon, but a nice hearty bowl of soup sure does come close. Send your guests home with these easy to make Soup Kits to help brave the upcoming cold winter days.

Snow Crystal Mini Chocolate

Your guests will love these cute petite Mini Chocolate Bars. Have them remember how sweet your wedding and ceremony was with the sweetness of this chocolate bar.

Winter Warmth For Adults

Have your guests stay warm this Winter the old fashioned way. These DIY Cranberry Infused Vodka Kits are unique and inexpensive way to keep the party going for your guests even after you close your doors.

Personalized Candles

And of course, what would winter be without candles. Give your guests a wedding favor you know they’ll use. These Personalized Candles are a perfect gift to send home with all your family and friends. Your guests will be thinking of you and your special day everytime they fire up one of these beautiful and quaint candles.

Peppermint Sugar Scrub

Sugar scrubs are the new wave right now. They have numerous health and body benefits and make baths and self-care even more relaxing. Send your guests off with these DIY Rosemary and Peppermint Sugar Scrubs. Help them get into the exciting Winter season Holiday spirit by treating themselves to some beneficial self care.

Evergreen Square Tag

Subtleties go a long way. This small, and intricate square tag can add just that extra personal touch on your wedding favors. Reminding your guests who that special wedding favor is from, The Evergreen Square Tag gives that hint of Fall/Winter feel and can almost have you smelling that sweet crisp evergreen aroma.

Snowflake Wine Bottle Stopper

This small, petite wedding favor can help your guests bring home the party after you and your partner have ended yours. This inexpensive but still luxurious looking Snowflake Wine Bottle Stopper adds a special drop of Wintery Wonderland for all your guests to bring home. You know your guests will use a gift like this especially if it’s paired with a parting gift of their own bottle of wine.

Thanks again, Forever Wedding Favors, for these great suggestions!

Art

Deco

The Art Deco period exploded in the 1920s, so many of the exuberant elements of the Roaring Twenties and Gatsby-esque glamour appear. Add sparkling accents to your tabletops and attire, and use a black and white palette while incorporating green and white accents throughout all your decorations.

Art Nouveau

Use curving lines and linear shapes throughout your furniture. Look for venues that feature stained glass windows to highlight the appeal of this movement. Similarly, incorporate muted colors, like greens, grays, and yellows into the mix.

Pop

Art

Channel the likes of Andy Warhol by using bright hues, especially those of primary colors like red, blue, and yellow. Add these colors to your flower arrangements, decorations, and even party favors to give your guests the allure of popular culture!

Rococo

Pastel pinks and other light colors like blues and peaches are perfect for a Rococo-themed event. Play upon elegance and detail, using antique, French-style furniture and gold accents throughout.

Vincent

van Gogh

Say your “I dos” under a “starry night” by channelling the magical components of Vincent van Gogh’s beautiful painting. Use shades of blue and yellow, and put out tea candles to capture the appeal of a dimly lit, romantic occasion.

Fauvism

For couple that like color, this is your art movement. Utilize patterns and unconventional colors in your flower arrangements, cake, and other decor to create a bright, jovial feel to your celebration.

Thank you Invaluable.com for sharing such a great article. To read the entire piece, visit: https://blog.invaluable.com/blog/wedding-decoration-ideas/

Gentlemen, your big day is coming up and the ladies aren't the only ones who get to prep and pamper themselves to be camera ready. There are plenty of ways to ensure you're looking like a million bucks too! Here are a few tips and suggestions, incorporating a great graphic from Harry’s, to help you look and feel good when you say "I Do!"

1. SKIN

Shave:

Make Sure you're using a high-quality shaving cream that will reduce and calm irritation, as well as moisturize and refresh your skin with every use. Here is a super popular option, as well as a great razor to pair it with:

- HARRY'S Razor - The Truman - $9

- CREAMO's Original Shave Cream - $8

Skin / Moisturize: 

It's important to not only use a hydrating face cleanser to keep you squeaky clean and fresh all day long, but also to apply a lotion specifically made for the unique skin on your face. a good cleanser will gently exfoliate away dead skin CELLS, dirt, and oil without being too harsh. a Good lotion won't clog your pores and will protect you from the sun's harmful rays. It can be really confusing when you're shopping for these since Every product out there says it addresses difFerent and unique skin care needs, but Here are some of our overall tops picks for face lotions and cleansers:

- HARRY'S Face Wash w/ Peppermint - $7

- RUGGED & DAPPER Daily Power Scrub Mens Facial Cleanser - $25

- HARRY'S Face Lotion - $8

- Jack Black's Double-Duty Face Moisturizer - $28

- Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream - $29.50

2. BODY

Fitness:

getting some exercise in will not only help you look better, it will also help you feel gooD by releasing lots of endorphins that help to trigger positive feelings in the body :) Whether you're a gym fanatic or someone who has never set foot in one, Working out can be difficult. Having a friend along the way can make things a lot easier, is a great way to make sure you're staying on track, and will keep things fun!  It's tough to start at first, but once you get into a routine, things will get easier... we promise. 

- A gym membership or drop-in class somewhere can be EXPENSIVE! One great alternative is to sign up for a program like ClassPass which gives you access to tons of studios/classes in your area for one low monthly price. There are also tons of free phone apps and online videos you can find if you don't have the spare time or money to go somewhere to workout.

Massage: 

Everyone deserves to pAmper themselves every now and then. Whether You stressed and planned over every detail of the wedding day, or got second-hand stress from someone else managing all of the details, you've gone through a lot to make the big day perfect! A massage or day at the spa is a great way to de-stress and relax a little so you can fully enjoy your wedding day and not carry all the hard work you've put into the wedding on your shoulders anymore.

Brows & Nails: 

Manscaping should be on every grooms To-Do List before the big day! Pedicures, Manicures, and eyebrow trimming/plucking isn't just for women.... Grooms need some TLC in these areas too! Either do it all at home or head into a salon to let the experts handle it. And Don't be EMBARRASSED about going into a salon to get these tasks done either... it's totally normal. You'd actually be surprised by just how many guys are starting to go these days for all of their Guy-geuine needs. 

Teeth: 

Not only are you going to be surrounded by all of your cloest friends and family on your wedding day, You're also likely going to be photographed more than on any other day of your life! Make sure your pearly whites stand out and look their best. You can visit your dentist for a professional cleaning/whitening or use a popular over-the-counter treatment, like the one listed below, while staying in the comfort of your own home.

- Crest 3D White Luxe Professional Effects Whitestrips - $67

3. HAIR

Style & Cut:

You don't want any unwanted surprises on your big day, and that definitely includes your hair cut! Make sure you get a cut no more than 5 days away from your wedding day to unsure sharp and crisp lines and either  stick to what you've had done in the past, or choose a new style at least a few months out the make sure it fits what you want. 

Products: 

Everyone hair and preferred style is different so we can't really give you any direct suggestions here. Just make sure you try out whatever you are using before the wedding day and ensure it'll hold and last 12+ hours to get you from getting ready photos to getting down on the dance floor.

Whether your guests came from the other side of the world, or just the other side of the street, it's nice to leave them with a meaningful token of your appreciation for making it to your big day! You’ve already spent enough money to make your wedding perfect, so here are some wedding favor ideas that definitely won’t break the bank or go to waste, and that will be sure to grab your guests’ attention.

TO EAT

NOT TO EAT

MULTICULTURAL

Planning a wedding can definitely be a stressful time with so many different tasks being juggled at once. Of course you want your magical day to be perfect for you and your guests, but don’t forget to make it extra special for your amazing bridesmaids that have gone above and beyond for you along the way. Here are some perfectly picked bridesmaids gifts that will take a bit of stress out of the planning and can be used long after the I do’s and toasts are over.

Makeup Bags & Clutches

Match their styles to a T while holding life’s essentials and day-of emergency items close by with one of these cute and personalized bags!

Robes

Stick to this tried and true bridesmaid gift that is guaranteed to create picturesque photo ops of the bunch and keep everyone free to move around and have fun while getting ready!

Compacts

Your stylish ladies should always be looking and feeling beautiful! Ensure your gal-pals will be able to see themselves at their finest with these gorgeous and petite personal mirrors.

Tote Bags

Who doesn’t love a new bag!? Treat your ladies to one of these fabulous totes to store anything and everything on the go. #ToteallyFabulous

Jewelry

Bling bling! Compliment your bridesmaids’ unique styles and beauty with a new piece of jewelry that will make them say “WOW!”

Clothing

Keep your ladies comfy and cozy all day long with one of these wearable goodies.

Home

Give your bridesmaids a gift they can see and use everyday to be reminded of how much you mean to them and that they helped to make your special day PERFECT!

The Psychology of Warm Colors

If you’re interested in provoking strong thoughts and feelings, warmer colors such as orange, red and yellow are the way to go. These colors are known for symbolizing and igniting feelings such as cheer and positivity.

Red is usually synonymous with love and romance because of its association with the heart. The colors orange and yellow are usually associated with cheer and happiness. These colors can encourage positive energy in the spaces where you place them.

The Psychology of Cool Colors

Are you looking to boost your creativity or wind down after a long day? Incorporate cool colors into your surroundings to promote an even balance between serenity and stimulation.

One very popular cool color, green, is considered peaceful and calming. Why? It’s thought to be less straining on the eye muscles. Incorporating different shades of greenery in your garden or arrangement is a great way to balance out any highly-stimulating colors.

Blue, a serene and calming cool color, is known to slow-down respiration and lower blood pressure. By incorporating one or a combination of these colors in your surroundings, you can breathe a little more easily and think a little more clearly.

The color purple is considered to represent royalty, as historically purple dye was very expensive and very hard to come by. This color also is also a symbol of creativity and spirituality.

While flowers come in different shapes and sizes, the colors you choose to display or gift can make a big impact. Whether you prefer a floral arrangement made with warm colors for a lively party or a cool-toned bouquet for a romantic wedding, your choice of a color palette can influence your guests’ mood for the better.

Credit:www.ftd.com

After you’ve planned your perfect wedding, you want to make sure you have everything in order for the perfect honeymoon as well. But it’s not as simple as jumping onto the next plane and landing at your tropical destination. It takes time, effort, and strategic planning. Honeymoons can be expensive: the average price for a couple’s honeymoon is $5,000! After you’ve just spent all this money on your wedding, another huge expense can be scary to think about. But your honeymoon, like your wedding, is only going to happen once. So take the time to prepare so you can pull off a glitch-free trip. Here are some tips to plan for an unforgettable honeymoon.
 

Set a budget

Before you plan anything, analyze your financial situation and come up with a budget for the trip. That will help narrow down the choice of destination because you’ll be able to eliminate places you can’t afford. Do you want to travel halfway across the world to an exotic country? Or relax on a tropical island with your feet in the sand? Or maybe just take a long weekend somewhere close to home? If you need help deciding, consider using a travel agent to get you the best value for your dream location. They’ll guide you with travel assistance, recommendations, and perks. Also, set aside separate funds for any excursions and extra spending money you might need. Travel credit cards can be a great way to spend now and worry later. Many offer rewards as you spend, which is just an added bonus! You could also look into a low-interest loan. Believe it or not, loans used properly can be a smart financial decision to allow you to achieve your dream honeymoon. The low-interest rates can often be much lower than a credit card. And if you already have miles saved up, this is the time to cash them in! Although following a budget might not lower your overall costs, it will help you not overspend.

 

Take advantage of a honeymoon registry

While registries for your bridal shower and wedding can be great to get something you and your hubby would never buy for yourselves, most soon-to-be-married couples already have most of what they need.  If you prefer gifts outside the traditional wedding registry ideas, sign up for a honeymoon registry. It’s a perfect way for wedding couples to register for what they really want, and it allows you to save money on your wedding and still be able to do all the things you hoped for. Instead of just giving you cash or buying you a gravy boat you’ll never use, a honeymoon registry will allow your guests to gift you items that you can enjoy like your airfare, a couples massage, or horseback riding.

 

Look for all-inclusive packages

There are so many details that go into a honeymoon, and all of them can continue to add up. When planning your honeymoon, look into all-inclusive packages that include flight, hotel, food, and drinks to get a better value for your money. Travel agents can also help you find honeymoon packages and score you some amazing deals with a range of options. Some hotels will offer a special honeymoon package that offers more nights or an evening with champagne and a special dinner. So do your research and compare prices on different travel sites to see what you can get for your budget. Check out all-inclusive packages on Groupon. Depending on the package you choose, excursions like guided tours, couples massages and extra luxuries will be extra! Read online reviews on the resort you’re visiting to learn more about their amenities and past customers’ experiences to make your decision.  It’s always nice to hear from someone who has experienced it to see if they thought it was worth the money.
 

Choose an off-season location

Try to book your honeymoon at a place during their off-season to save money. A lot of tropical locations have peak seasons during the colder months with most people wanting to get away from the snow or frigid temperatures. For example, islands in the Caribbeans have high temperatures year long, but prices peak during the months of January to April due to East Coasters wanting to escape the cold winter. You can still expect temperatures in the mid-70s to mid-80s. March is prime Spring Break season, and prices can double so shift your honeymoon to May and you’ll save hundreds of dollars. Choosing to take your honeymoon during a resort’s off-season means they’ll be less crowded, which is a win-win situation for any vacation. A quiet resort makes for an intimate honeymoon that you and the love of your life will enjoy.
 

Purchase tickets in advance

Buying airline tickets in advance will allow you to pay the lowest price and save an average of six percent on airfare. You’ll want to compare prices and consistently check fare rates to see when you can get the best price. According to CheapAir, the fare for a flight changes an average of 71 times between its opening and the day it takes off. When you find a really great deal, book it because it probably won’t last long! During the slower months, tourism-dependent businesses are seeking new customers, so keep an eye out for price drops.
 

“I’m on my honeymoon!”

Your newly married, so why not boast about it! In many cases, you won’t be the only one honeymooning at that location. By just simply talking about the fact that you’re on your honeymoon can not only create some new friendships with other couples but it may also get you some perks! It isn’t guaranteed you’ll get anything special, (and you shouldn’t expect anything) but it doesn’t hurt to tell the bartender at the airport or the person checking you in at the hotel that you’re newlyweds! You can even ask directly if there’s anything they can do. You never know if you’ll receive complimentary upgrades or free flutes of champagne.

A honeymoon is a fun thing to plan, and it’s a great opportunity to kick back after the long months of wedding planning and enjoy it with the love of your life. This isn’t just like any other vacation, so you want to make sure you organize a special trip, and that you save money along the way. There are plenty of expenses that come with a wedding, so do what you can to cut costs while still planning your dream honeymoon. You’re married now, so go relax and celebrate!

We also plan Honeymoons!

Lavish Travels is a boutique travel agency specializing in  honeymoons tailored to each couples desire and wishes.

Here at Lavish Travels, we'll create a custom , exciting and romantic honeymoon for your first trip as a married couple.It's our job to make sure that you will embark on a once in a lifetime trip!  

Pink & Pastel Wedding Invitation Dreams

If you are heading down the aisle in 2018 or even next year, now is the time to take advantage of your little bit of winter downtime and start planning! While you’re at it - get in the springtime spirit! Think back to warmer weather and your favorite spring hues or seasonal trends and use that as inspiration for your personalized wedding invitation.

Easter colors especially, bring a lot of color inspiration with everything from pastels to neon’s in pink, green, purple, and yellow. There isn’t a color that spring doesn’t bring. Use that to get you through your pre-wedding season planning and off to a solid head start!

Here are some of Basic Invite’s favorite classic takes on spring inspiration and some fun fresh ideas for your personalized wedding invitation sets!

Pink & Pastel Dreams

Watercolor Script Wedding Invitation

There’s no better time than now to make all of your pastel dreams come true. Pink, purple, green, yellow, and blue all make the best watercolor washes. We have so many cute designs that were made for this trend!

Classic Creamy Whites

The Simplicity Wedding Invitation

Think totally bridal! White, ivory, and cream only! Customize a sophisticated and stunning marriage suite using pure simplicity. This will look extra gorgeous on our signature matte or luxe velvet paper types. Swap out the black font to something a bit more delicate to achieve this look.

Mix It Up with Bright Neon

Rustic Type Wedding Invitation

For a more eclectic take on spring follow the inspiration of sunsets, Easter bunnies, and candy. Choose a bright color scheme or even mix and match for an extra bright look.

When doing this right, you can make a simple look seriously pop! Bright orange, teal blues, and yellow make nice contrasts. Choose an ultra thin font paired with a white background for a tasteful and bright invite.

Pick A Color

Some shades of pink and purple can become over barring when overdone - so, if you do want to utilize the color pop be sure to stick to one color and pair it with a matching envelope to complete the look.

Use the seasons to your advantage when planning your wedding – knowing the trends, popular colors, and styles including in-season botanicals will help your budget and your ultimate wedding bliss!

Basic Invite just released their wedding website builder templates to make your wedding planning simple and easy – for you and your guests! These are completely customizable in some of our classic designs so you can even match your website to your suite! How cute?!

Head over to Basic Invite to customize yours today! Make sure to use coupon code 15FF51 at checkout for 15% off your wedding invitation

for any situation that could arise on the big day.

Double Sided Tape: You’ll definitely want to have fashion tape on hand to fix awkward gaping dresses or for an emergency hemline.

Baby Powder: This multitasker is great for freshening up after sweaty pictures outside, sprinkling in shoes to deodorize and prevent blisters or preventing beaded dress bodices from scratching the bride’s underarms.

Snacks: Throw a banana or high protein granola bar into your bag for the bride to snack on during downtime. Nothing too messy!

Strapless Bra: Someone will forget they needed a strapless bra or break the hook on theirs at the last minute, so throw a strapless bra in nude with convertible straps in your bag to fix any dress situation.

White chalk: When the bride gets a stain on her dress that no Tide-to-go pen can fix, white chalk can be a great temporary fix to help cover up the stain.

Straws: No one wants a woozy bride at the altar so help keep the bride hydrated without ruining her lipstick by carrying a pack of straws with you.

Blister cushions: No matter how much you try and break in those new heels, blisters are going to happen. To avoid limping around the venue barefoot, bring some cushioned blister pads and use them at the first sign of irritation!

Gatorade: Perfect for keeping the bride hydrated before the ceremony or helping curb her hangover the next morning.

Extra Earring backs: Put a handful of bridesmaids into a hotel room to get ready and someone is bound to lose an earring back. Save the day by packing this set which has three different styles.

Alcohol: When all else fails having a little spirit on hand can fix any problem. Grab a few mini bottles of the bride’s favorite and break them out when something goes so wrong, you can’t help but laugh and cheers!

With a little bit of prep and the support of your friends, family, and bridal party, getting ready is going to be a breeze and will set you up for a successful day. For more tips, advice, inspiration, ideas and bridal-related topics, click back to the Lavish Weddings blog and read more posts!

I love these colors for winter. They exude a warm, comfortable feeling with a sense of sultry from that merlot red. Navy is less formal for the men which could be perfect depending on the style of your wedding. A traditional power suit coupled with bridesmaids in these reds will be sure to impress. If you’re looking for a way to accent your maid of honor, try putting the bridesmaids in navy dresses to match the groomsmen, with the Maid of Honor in the merlot color.

Purple is of course incredibly popular for weddings, but what I love here is the combination with the grey for men. Again, the grey doesn’t carry the formality as a traditional tuxedo, but pairing lighter and dark grey neutrals with the plum and lighter purples, really make those colors pop! Another thing to think about is that silvers, pinks and purples make for gorgeous centerpieces and floral designs.

Greens can be challenging. It’s one of the colors that always feels right, but can go horribly wrong if you choose the wrong shade. I love this color palette as it incorporates the traditional black tuxedo. A quick note on going traditional: while a black tuxedo is classic, you’ll want to make sure you’re not investing or renting in something that goes so far as to look outdated. We all know that a lot of rentals have the reputation of being, well — ugly. According to publications like Fast Company, The Back Tux offers tux and suit rentals “for the 21st century,” so try them out for a black tux that’s classic but also stylish.

Combine your black elements with earthy greens like Olive and more leafy greens. From the dresses to the floral arrangements, everything blends so well when greens like this are utilized correctly. But remember to be careful! Even a couple misplaced greens can throw off a typically beautiful color scheme.

Hopefully these amazing winter color palettes can bring you some inspiration. Remember, starting with a theme like these for a winter wedding is the best way to get started. Once the colors are in place, they are the framework that will keep the rest of the planning on track.

Happy planning!

When searching for a gift for your groom squad, you want something practical that they will get use out of, but also something unique and personalized to your friendship. Groovy Groomsmen Gifts covers all the bases, and they even offer free personalization for each gift! Below are a few of our favorites.

PRACTICAL: Tie Bar, Cuff Links, Razor, Travel Kit, Cooler, Money Clip

GREAT PRICE POINTS: Embroidered Socks, Koozie, Lighter, Shot Glass

UNIQUE: Custom Bobble Heads, Personalized Ax, Custom Whiskey Barrel

FUN: Caricature on a Beer Mug, Caricature on a Flask

Check out the easy, one stop shop at www.groovygroomsmengifts.com

Whether you’re looking for a fun, useful, or unique gift, you’ll find something for every personality here.

Now, it's time to write the perfect speech to honor your friend and the love of his life. 

If you get stumped, are wondering what to include or leave out, don't worry! 

Loyes Diamonds covered everything you need to know for an amazing speech. 

After getting married, one of the first things a bride looks forward to is changing her last name. What she may not know is how overwhelming it can be.  To change your last name, you need a DMV name change, a Social Security name change, and a passport name change for travel purposes. On the surface, it sounds easy, but there are a myriad of forms scattered in different physical locations and online, they are on separate internet sites. Let’s face it—as busy, working women, navigating the process, trying to hunt down every single form you will ever need on different websites, filling out the forms correctly, and knowing which forms to send in first can be frustrating.  There’s really no time to get all this done easily.

Luckily, there are several sites that make this a lot easier and straightforward.  One such site is HitchSwitch. Simply put, the site provides an organized package of all the forms you will need along with a step-by-step guide on how to fill out the forms and in what order you should send them; everything is downloadable or sent to you.  The step-by-step guides even help you out with things that don’t require forms such as getting new bank cards. They even get detailed in giving you your specific bank’s number and the bank-specific process to get your new card.

There are three different packages with HitchSwitch. The cheapest one priced at $29 gives you online access to all the forms you’ll need, and all you have to do is print them out, follow the step-by-step instructions to fill in and sign the forms, and send them in.  The second most expensive package priced at $69 sends your forms completely filled out for you with preaddressed envelopes, and all you have to do is sign and send the forms! For the most expensive name-changing package, you receive all your forms filled out for you, and you get a ready-to-ship passport photo.

Other similar sites include LegalZoom and MissNowMrs. Be sure to check out all the sites and the packages they offer to see what best suits your needs! 

Read reviews on the name-changing sites, talk with your significant other, and decide what is best for you both! 

Are These Sites Secure?

You’re probably thinking, “This is too easy, and too good to be true! Is this legal or secure?” Sites like HitchSwitch leave the sensitive information (such as social security or driver’s license) for you and you alone to fill out.  Only basic information is required such as your name, address, email, phone number, and so on.

Is There Anything I Have to do Aside from Signing and Sending These Forms?

Unfortunately, while filling out the forms will be made easier tenfold, you can’t escape the in-person visit required by the DMV.  For the Social Security office, it’s not recommended that you go in, but it is recommended.  It still takes about ten business days for your information to be processed at the Social Security office, so going in person speeds up the process.

In addition to the visits to the DMV and Social Security office, you cannot avoid the costs of changing your name. For example, to get a new driver’s license, it costs $27. You’ll also still have to pay to get forms notarized. For the most part, however, sites like HitchSwitch will make everything else form-wise an easy checklist for you.

Do They Provide Services to Same-Sex Couples?

Simply put, yes!

Is This For Me? What about the Traditional Way?

You can still go the traditional route and save a little money, or you can choose to pay at the very least $30 and make the process go smoother and quicker. To get an idea of what changing your name would be like, you would have to: (1) Get your marriage license if you didn’t already receive it after the ceremony; (2) change your social security card; (3) get a new license at the DMV; (4) change your passport; (5) change your bank cards and checks; and (6) notify other places of your name change (employers, IRS, post office, electric and utility companies, doctors, voter registration, etc.) You’ll also have to figure out what you need to submit along with your forms and where to get the forms all on your own.

With sites like HitchSwitch, it will help you take care of at least 3/5 of the above. Even then, they provide you with guides for other things above like notifying the IRS, voter registration, how to get your marriage license, and much more.  In the end, using this new name-changing process is completely a personal choice! 

For many newly engaged couples, the wedding website has equal value to the invitation itself. Some have even skipped the extra paper that traditional invites hold and go for simple ones that direct guests to a personalized website filled with details about their big day. This includes: accommodation, interactive maps, online RSVPs, link to gift registries, activities for out of town guests, etc.. Wedding websites are also a great way to provide information to your guests should any detail about your wedding change.

Here are our Top Sites for Creating a Website for Your Wedding:

Appy Couple ($35-$65)

eWedding (Free-$7/month)

Wedding Woo ($49 a year)

Squarespace  ($12-16 a month)

Minted (Free)

The Knot (Free)

Wedding Wire (Free)

My Wedding (Free)

Zank You (Free) - Also a Wedding Registry website! 

Wedding Paper Divas (Free)

Zola  (Free) - Also a Wedding Registry website! 

Charitable Giving

In lieu of a registry, invite your guests to donate to a charity that is important to you. JustGive.org has an awesome platform where you can create a fundraiser for the charity of your choosing. As a couple you can also choose to make a donation on behalf of your guests instead of a party favor.

Here are a few local San Diego charities that we love:

Father Joe’s Villages

Second Chance

Camp Fire

Donate the "Stuff"

We often get asked the question, “What do I do with all this stuff once the wedding is over?” in reference to leftovers, décor, extra favors, flowers, etc. Our answer is donate it! Research if there is a food bank in your community that can use extra food or cake. Goodwill or the Salvation Army can take those 10,000 mason jars that you’ll never use again. One bride’s flower vases are…another bride’s flower vases!

One of the loveliest ways to share the beauty of your big day is to donate your centerpieces to hospitals or retirement communities. The Forget Me Not Foundation of San Diego is a wonderful organization that can help you do this!

Express Your Gratitude

It can sometimes be difficult the night of your wedding to hug every person and thank them for celebrating with you. Wedding receptions are jam packed with pictures, hugs, kisses, bouquet tosses, cake, etc. Your guests know this, but it doesn't hurt to wow them a little with a thoughtful gesture that reminds them how much they mean to you. 

One way to tug at your guests' heart strings is to use letters as escort cards. Address envelopes to each guest with their name and table number. Inside the envelope share a memory that the two of you share or just personally thank them for traveling across the country to share in your big day!

If your guest count is 300 people and the thought of writing that many notes is too daunting, write a thank you note together as a couple to have at each place setting. Your guests will feel the love no matter what you decide!

Don't Forget About Mother Nature

We love when couples are conscientious of the environment and incorporate efforts to give a little love back to the planet into their big day

A recent couple that we worked with chose to give trees to their parents as thank you gifts. Not only were the trees planted as a reminder of the beautiful day, but their value goes beyond that of just a thoughtful gift!