Traditions- Releasing Doves

Wedding Traditions- Releasing Doves

There is an old superstition that if you see a pair of doves on your wedding day than you would have a long and happy marriage. Doves are known to mate for life which is where the symbolism comes from. Doves also represent peace in many religions. They are believed to signify love, unity, and fidelity.

Other animals known to mate for life include: Swans, French Angelfish, Penguins, Lobsters, Wolves, Turtle Doves, Bald Eagles, Gibbons

Photography Checklist- The Ceremony

When meeting with a photographer, make sure to discuss what images you would like taken at the ceremony. If there are any special decorations, traditions, etc. it is good to point them out to the photographer ahead of time. Make a quick check list so you don't forget any important details.

Aisle Decor

At the Alter

First Sighting of the Bride

Walking Down the Aisle

The Bridesmaids

Ceremony Venue Before Guests are Seated

Chair Decor

Exchanging the Rings

The Aisle

Closing the Vows with a Kiss

Leaving the Venue

Transportation/Departure

Flower Petals from the Flower Girl

The Reception Photo Checklist

A professional wedding photographer will know what photos to take. If you hire someone new or are using a friend, it is good to have a checklist. Here are the items you will want photographed during the reception.

The Cake

The Champagne Glasses

The First Dance

The Centerpieces

The Food

The Toast

Place Cards/ Favors

The Table Settings

The Tables

The Reception Area

The Guest Book

Great Color Combos

Picking the right color scheme is crucial! Once you have the colors, you can choose everything else from the flowers to the bridesmaids dresses. It all revolves around the color. Here are some beautiful color combos!

Contrasting Colors

Contrasting colors are found opposite each other on the color wheel. To create an even cooler effect choose one in a dark shade and the other in a light shade like this plum and lime green.

Two Complimentary Colors

Complimentary colors that are found next to each other on the color wheel compliment each other perfectly. Using two keeps the color scheme simple and sweet.

Three Complimentary Colors

Complimentary colors can be found next to each other in the rainbow. Using red, yellow, and green makes for a beautiful choice. It gives the effect of a rainbow without being cheesy.

Favorite Colors

If you have a favorite color, why not use it on the big day? Love pink and purple? Go crazy!

Colors with Meaning

Use colors that have specific meanings. The colors above could mean a few things. Pink and red are often associated with love and romance. Green is often associated with growth, life, and money. Romance, growth, and money sounds like the perfect way to start a marriage.

Calming Colors

Set the mood for the day by choosing different shades. Choosing pastels or light tones can create a nice calming effect.

Exciting Colors

If you are an outgoing couple choose bright fun colors to get people excited. Think of summertime colors to really pump up the volume.

Monochromatic Colors

Choose different shades of one color like red. Mix and match all different reds, raspberries, pinks, magentas, etc. This keeps the color scheme simple without it falling flat.

Seasonal Colors

Colors based on the season are perfect. That does not mean you need to use red, orange, and yellow for fall. Choose a flower that is common for the season and run with it. Check out this beautiful yellow and blue which reminds me of sunflower fields.

Amazing Floral Arrangements

Large over-the-top floral arrangements make a statement like no other! Not to say that bigger is always better, but these centerpieces know how to make an impression!

You don't have to use a typical vase for a centerpiece. Try using fun planters or even pieces you find at a garage sale. Simply spray paint everything white and it looks like a brand new item that was hand picked for your big day. Plus, no one else will have the same centerpieces you did!

Fill a tall vase with fruit to add a pop of color to the vase. Then, add height with large flowers and extra tall branches.

Oversized martini glasses are great for standing out. They are also great because there is nothing at eye level when you are seated, so your guests can talk to each other without leaning around the centerpiece.

Using a thin vase and large flowers balances out. These are beautiful without being overwhelming!

Go all out with tons of small flowers in the vase and on the table. This has a lush luxurious look that your guests will always remember.

Making trees of flowers is a great idea. Then incorporate beads, pearls, and all sorts of accessories to add some glitz and glamour.

Go traditional by using a tall vase for height and a simple timeless floral arrangement at the top. This arrangement will never go out of style.

Wedding Dress Necklines

There are tons of different necklines offered on wedding dresses. Everything from halters to strapless. Make sure to choose one that is the most flattering for your figure. If you have wide shoulders make sure to stay away from boat necks. If you have a large chest don't wear something too low cut. Here are some examples of different necklines.

Asymmetric 

Halter

Sweetheart with Straps 

One Shoulder

Pointed Sweetheart

Illusion 

High Neck

Spaghetti Strap

Square

Strapless

Sweetheart

V Neck