1. Pinterest Dreamin’

We get it. The wedding dress images on Pinterest are endless and awe-inspiring. It’s hard not to pin every single beautiful image you scroll past. Consider this while you’re pinning away with hearts in your eyes — You have to choose one. Just one. Try deciding on a general style and only pin dresses that fit within that, making notes on what you like and dislike about each dress. You can then show your consultant your newly organized and detailed Pinterest board at your bridal salon appointment. She’ll thank you and you will find the perfect dress in no time.

2. Embarrassment

Even if your mom can keep the naked baby photos to herself, you’re bound to have an embarrassing moment or two at your bridal salon appointment. I ripped a slip with my large tush, walked out of the dressing room with a dress completely unzipped and flashed my boobs to my consultant about 20 times. I survived (and found a great dress). If you run into similar situations just remember that it’s your day and to have fun! Finding a wedding dress (while important) is a matter best dealt with while wearing a smile.

3. Indecision

And you thought cleaning up your Pinterest board was difficult! Just wait until you’re at your bridal salon appointment with five top favorite dresses. Mom has a favorite, your sister has a favorite, your bff has a favorite and you have a big decision to make. Too many opinions can make your decision difficult so take that into consideration when choosing who to take with you to your appointment. When it comes down to it, try on accessories with your favorite dresses. As a very visual person, this helped me visualize the final product and make a final decision.

4. Clarity

When you finally decide what dress will be the dress, emotions can run high. For me it was just a relief. So while I didn’t cry and my mother certainly didn’t cry, I knew I made the right choice. Most bridal salons will make a special announcement of some sort that will make you feel like you’ve accomplished something huge (and you kinda have). At this point you should be feeling confident in your choice and happy that you are one step closer to marrying the man of your dreams!

5. Cold Feet

That clarity you felt at your bridal salon appointment may eventually waver. What if you didn’t try enough on? Should you have gone with the first one? Is there a better dress out there that you haven’t seen yet? These are all questions that will race through your mind amidst the stress of wedding planning. You may call mom. You may have a short cry. It’s probably nothing a little reassurance from mom can’t help. If you have these thoughts consistently though, don’t be afraid to reach out to your bridal salon to see what your options are.

6. The Big Day

The emotional rollercoaster you went through will all be worth it when your soon-to-be spouse see’s you for the first time on your wedding day. You will likely never wear something more expensive, beautiful and special so soak it up! It’s not likely you will wear this dress again so hire a photographer you trust to capture all the beautiful moments of your special day.

Did you experience any of these emotions while buying your dress? What was your favorite part of wedding dress shopping? Let’s start a conversation in the comments below!

1. Comfort Food

Have you ever thought about how great Fall food is? For example; caramel apples, pies, popcorn and even donuts. It’s like a build up to Thanksgiving! These comfort foods make for great wedding desserts and cocktail hour snacks.

2. Warm Color Palettes

The warm, deep colors of Fall just can’t be beat. It’s not all burgundy and burnt orange, though! Below are some of our favorite and fresh, warm color palettes.

3. Soft Lighting

Soft, warm lighting will really set the mood for a Fall wedding and there are so many ways to achieve the look! You could incorporate candles in your centerpieces, string some fairy lights or go as far as booking a venue with a fireplace!

4. Autumnal Alchohol

Gone are the spritzers of Summer! Your guests will jump at the chance to warm up with a cup of hot apple cider. Spike it with some rum for a fun kick! And those fall themed cocktails? They’re as tasty as they are Instagramable.

5. Cozy Up

Sometimes we sacrifice our warmth for a super stylish outfit (even though you don’t have to). Regardless, whether you’re the bride, a bridesmaid or a guest, we’ve got you covered (literally). Below are some unique and stylish ways to cozy up at a Fall wedding.

Are you planning a Fall wedding? What cozy touches will you sprinkle into your big day? Let us know in the comments!

As modern women (and men) we have choices and that includes what we register for. In 2016, whatever your lifestyle looks like, there’s a wedding registry for you. This is not your mother’s wedding registry. We’ve compiled the best of the best registry sites for every kind of couple. Keep reading to find the perfect one for you and your boo!

1. All Inclusive

Variety is the spice of life (and your registry). You can register for literally anything on Zola whether you find it on the Zola website or add it from another website. You can also register for special experiences like wine tasting, cooking lessons or skydiving. None of those options speaking to you? Create your very own registry item!

2. I Do I Give

Sometimes all you need is love. Spread the joy a little further by asking your guests to donate to a charity of your choosing in honor of your wedding. Just Give allows you to choose a charity you and your fiancé are passionate about and makes it easy for your guests to give.

3. Honeymoon Bliss

There are few things we know to be true in life and one of those things is you can never travel too much. You can however have too many blenders. Instead of registering for home goods, consider registering for your dream honeymoon at Honeyfund! Guests will be able gift you a snorkeling adventure, a romantic dinner, a night in a hotel or even your plane tickets.

4. Home is Where the Heart is

Pleased with your appliances but hate your kitchen? Saving up for a down payment on a home? Preparing a nursery for your future family? Feather the Nest is the perfect registry for you. Post photos, descriptions or even videos letting your guests know how they can help make your house a home.

5. Gift Card Crazy

Gift cards have been a go to gift for years and for good reason. Card Avenue takes gift card giving to the next level. You’ll be able to register for gift cards to all your favorite stores on one simple platform. Talk about a no-stress registry!

6. Stumped Sweethearts

Still stumped? Newlywish.com allows you to browse registries based on your lifestyle. Whether you’re health nuts, world travelers, book worms, or fashionista’s, the curated lists make it easy to find coordinating items that you’ll love and use for years to come.

What wedding registry site will you use for your wedding? Did we miss any of your favorites? Let us know in the comments!

Back to School

Image via Zacks Dance Loft

Who said going back to school has to be boring? Check out the listings in your area and do a group class together. It could be a cooking or a baking class, a cocktail-making class (which is bound to be fun for all involved) or even a pole dancing class. It is a great way to get some bonding time together and who knows, you might even learn a thing or two in the process.

The Great Outdoors

Image via Laurel and Wolf

If the bride is into the great outdoors, what better way to spend the bachelorette weekend than on a camping trip? We’ll be upfront with you – camping would not be our definition of fun. It’s the bugs you see, bugs get us every single time (especially mosquitoes). For our BFF though we would suck it up (and come equipped with plenty of bug repellent). Glamping however… now glamping we can do. You still get the big outdoors with plenty of activities and the added bonus of all the creature’s comforts.

High Tea

Image via The Peninsula Beverly Hills

If you are in the mood for something more sophisticated, why not go for an afternoon high tea? The spread at The Peninsula Beverly Hills would put Downtown Abbey to shame. Choose between 19 loose leaf tea blends, enjoy the delicate sandwiches, mouth-watering pastries and a glass of champers.

Give Back

Image via Ms Career Girl

It is easy to get caught up in our daily life stuff. And sometimes we forget how good it feels to give back. A lovely way to celebrate the bride’s special day would be to organize a volunteer day with her favorite charity. Or if you are looking for something closer to home it could be a volunteer day at the local hospital, retirement home, animal shelter or soup kitchen.

Bliss Out

Image via Gilt City

If in doubt why not go for tried and tested favorites? And what’s better than a relaxing day at the spa? Wedding planning is stressful, your friend is bound to appreciate some chill out time. Go for a decadent massage, have a rejuvenating facial or try a treatment you haven’t tried before. At Ole Henriksen Spa you can have your pick of the latest and most decadent treatments for the whole body (their Red Carpet Hydrafacial sounds amazing). And after you reach your zen state why not hit up a plush hotel, have a decadent (and boozy) lunch and soak in the views? The London West Hollywood is a couple of blocks away and they have a rooftop pool. Hey – we are just being service-y!

Get Your Groove On

Image via Pinterest

If the bride is a fan of live music a great way to celebrate is going to see her favorite act in concert. For the truly hardcore live music fan you could check out the local dive bar and catch some indie bands. If you want to make a weekend out of it hit up a music festival (although do remember to pack plenty of wipes. You can thank us for that nugget of wisdom later).

Go on a Scavenger Hunt

Image via Viator

Who doesn’t like a good scavenger hunt? You can create a scavenger hunt based on the bride’s favorite spots. Or the couple’s favorite spots. Or it can be a simple scavenger hunt that will involve running around town collecting things. Because come on – who doesn’t like riddles?

Hair-Raising Adventure

Image via Surfer Today

For the bride who likes her adventures adrenaline charged options are endless. You could try rock climbing, zip lining or surfing. If you are feeling especially daring why not try sky diving? That is one memory that is bound to stay with you long after the nuptials.

Scream Your Head Off

Image via CNN

Theme parks seem to be a favorite for bachelor parties. And to that we say pfffffffff! Who doesn’t like a good roller-coaster we ask you? Or a creepy haunted house? And let’s not forget all the junk food.

Here is a sneak peek of the hottest Fall 2016 wedding trends. Let us know in the comments below which of these trends you most excited to see

Fall Wedding Color Trends

Every wedding is under a theme and/or color selection this season we will be witnessing dust rose and pastel blues combined with rustic jewel tones such as emerald green and burnt orange. Not only will we be witnessing the mixture of jewel tones and pastel shades.

But you will also witness a lot of metallic tones such as brass, gold, rose gold and silver. These metallic tones will be seen everywhere from the flower handle to the wedding cake. Metallics is sure to be making a comeback this wedding season.

Fall Wedding Bridesmaid Trends

Bridesmaids are wearing velvet this fall.  This Fall 2016 we will witness the use of the color burgundy for bridesmaid dresses. We will also see the use of burgundy velvet to be exact. Velvet is huge when it comes to cool seasons especially for fall. However, this fall wedding season we will begin to see it in a much bigger way.

Not only will w witness velvet and burgundy in the bridesmaids dresses and shoes we will also see it displayed on the groomsmen as well. From ties to their shoes the color burgundy and velvet will surely make a statement this year.

Fall Wedding Fashion Trends

Let’s face it we all go to weddings excited to see what the bride and her bridesmaids will wear and how they will pull off their theme. This fall we will be seeing a lot of fur (faux fur). Faux fur will be used on brides and bridesmaids as well. From long faux fur coats, that are knee-length to sophisticated shawls that cover the bride’s shoulders.

Fur accents give the wedding an old Hollywood glam that can be worn for many years to come. When choosing a fur coat or shawl always keep your dress in mind. The fur accent should appear to compliment your dress not compete with it.

Fall Wedding Invitation Trends

The invitations you send your guests will set the tone and theme for your wedding. You want them to represent you and your significant other while giving a little bit of a hint of what your theme will be. This fall we are expecting wedding invitations that are crisp clean while focusing on the calligraphy. Not only calligraphy a huge trend for invitations but stamps are as well.

Not your typical mail stamps but stamps that mean something to you and your  groom. Shop on Etsy to find a few that are part of your theme. Your wedding invitations do not have to be the only area in your wedding that you include calligraphy. You can use calligraphy in your place cards, table numbers or, even in the food menu your guests will read.

Fall Wedding Flower Trends

Flowers always seem to be one of the first things a bride will look into once she starts preparing for her big day. The reason behind this is flowers tend to be seasonal so you want to get your flower arrangements decided before you decide on anything else. This will also help you choose the proper theme that will work for you. This fall’s wedding flower trend is freshly picked flowers.

You want a wild arrangement of flowers in rustic colors such as burgundy, orange, plum and green. Flower arrangements are trending to be more organic rather than put together and neat. You want a rustic look for you and your bridesmaids. If you choose to have flowers in your wedding decoration stick to arrangements that contain a lot of leaves and tones of green with pops of color here and there.

Fall Wedding Food Trends

Let’s talk about food. Every wedding has either a buffet with multiple options or a formal dinner where a menu has already been preselected by the bride and groom. This season we are looking at different food and drink stations and we are not just speaking about a dessert station. We are speaking about gourmet coffee stands, craft beer tasting, build your own pizza or taco bar and even a barbecue tasting station.

Depending on the food station you choose that will fit your budget consider hiring a professional to help you serve it. This will help save and your guests time it will take the guessing game out of what you should do next.

Fall Wedding Cake Trends

Start saying goodbye to large over the top cakes. This fall season we are looking at smaller topless cakes. The trend of having a “naked” cake instead of it being covered in frosting or fondant has completely taken over. Instead of covering the cake with fondant or frosting couples are now looking into adding small details such as bunches of bloom or greenery.

Couples are also opting for cakes that have flavor drippings. What this means is a “naked” cake will have caramel dripping on the outside of it instead of the inside. If you do consider this trend you may want to have another dessert as your cake will be smaller in size. As another dessert we recommend pie! Pie is huge as a dessert this fall 2016.

If you are finishing the last touches for your fall wedding, you may want to look into one of these trends to give your wedding an extra hint of the trend. Let us know below what trend for this fall 2016 is your personal favorite.

In our book, there is one thing that is definitely worth obsessing about. The delicious, delectable, scrumdiddlyumptious Wedding Cake! (like you even had to ask). Pardon us, while we soothe our sweet tooth. Cake is always important. Wedding cake trends tend to ebb and flow, but this year’s artistic design trends are where it’s at.

The Geode

One wedding cake trend that is rocking the Instagram at the moment? Geode wedding cakes. The trend was started by Australian pastry chefs, but plenty of pastry chefs all over the world are getting in on the game. Now you are all – what is a geode?

Geodes are volcanic rocks. And they look like normal rocks. Until they are split open and a gorgeous crystal interior is revealed. Geode cakes look pretty and they taste lovely too. The geode is a combination of sugar-rock crystals, modeling chocolate and hand painting. Lest you think this type of cake can be whipped up over night, think again. In order to grow the smaller sugar crystals it will take about three days and for larger crystals it can take up to a week.

Cake done by Intricate Icings Cake Design Image Ali Brannan via Brides

Image via Writicial

Cake tigerlilycakes Image via Shout.sg

Image via Johnson Custom Cakes

Image (and cake done) by Carrie at carriescakes.com

The Ombre

There were ombre manicures. Then there was ombre hair. Now ombre has become one of the hottest wedding cake trends too. Chances are you will not be doing your wedding cake yourself. But for any passionate bakers out there who might be curious how the effect is achieved – it’s all about the frosting and the food dye.

You divide the frosting and add the food dye to get different shades of color. To smooth out the frosting and get a nice gradient layer takes some skill. If we are honest – a lot of skill. It involves piping bags and spatulas and making sure the colors do not mix together so you’ll need intermediate baking skills at the very least. The beauty of an ombre cake is not only it looks stunning, it is easy to match with your wedding’s color scheme. Also there is plenty of room to get creative – you can go for bold, rich, vibrant hues or you can opt for paler tones if you want a more traditional look.

Image via One Wed

Image via Delicious Cakes

Image via The Bride Link

Image C Baron Photography via Style Me Pretty

Image via My London Wedding Planner

Watercolor

It does not get more artistic than a watercolor wedding cake. Just think about it – anything can serve as an inspiration. It can be your favorite painting. Or a flower. Or a pattern. The sky is the limit. Watercolor wedding cakes can be done with both buttercream and fondant frosting. Do bare in mind however that if you would prefer a fancier design fondant is easier to paint on.

Image by ArtbyAsh photography Design by Girly Trend Design

Image and cake design by cakewhisperer.ca

Image by Mango Studio via Deer Pearl Flowers

Image via Decor Amor

Image Kristy May via Crazy For Us

1. Say Yes to the Boho Dress

You won’t find many ball gowns around here! Boho brides are most often seen donning a relaxed, A-line dress. Relaxed and casual? Yes. Boring? No. Boho gowns feature gorgeous and unique details inspired by 70s’ fashion. More on the evolution of bridal style here.

A few of our favorite gowns with some serious boho vibes…

2. Top it Off

While a beautiful flower crown is an obvious choice, it’s not the only choice! Top off your wedding day digs with a gorgeous lace veil for a 70s’ chic look. Pop in a beaded hair piece for a more glamorous boho look. If you do go for the tried and true flower crown, it’s best to have your florist create it with fresh flowers that coordinate with your other flowers.

A few fab boho bridal headpieces…

3. You Are Cordially Invited

Your invites will be your guest’s first peak at the relaxed vibe of your bohemian wedding. Invitation wording can be so stuffy! All those rules about how to address whom and where? You can throw those out the window in lieu of wording that is meaningful to you and your family. From rustic to romantic and everything in between, you’re sure to find an invitation design that wows everyone on your guest list.

Very different (and very beautiful) takes on boho invites…

4. Not the Dress

It’s not the dress, but it’s a dress more important than many dresses you’ll wear in your life. Lifelong memories, remember? A little white dress is maybe the easiest clothing item to find, but no, not all white lace dresses are created equal! When shopping for this dress, look for unique designs and details.

Speaking of white lace dresses with unique details…

5. Mixing and Matching

Dressing the dudes isn’t always simple. Just like your bridesmaids, they’re likely going to have different body shapes and style preferences. This is where a bohemian wedding is. the. best. The undone look of mix and match styles in a similar color palette really suits the free-spirited, laid back vibe of a bohemian wedding.

Pick and choose from unique accessories like these…

6. Decor and More

An outdoor wedding really plays well with the woodsy, romantic vibe of a boho wedding. The beautiful nature will add more to your decor than any amount of tulle ever could! One thing you will need — heaps of flowers. Wildflowers with lots of greenery will mesh well with the surrounding nature. Other than that? Feel free to add fun vintage touches like macrame wall hangings, suitcases, rugs, or even dream catchers!

Vintage touches you just don’t see every day…

7. The Perfect Place

While an outdoor venue is a beautiful option, it’s not your only option. Wherever you live, try thinking outside of the box when searching for the perfect place to to tie the knot. With enough space and the right rentals, any location can serve as a wedding venue. For example; an old theatre, your grandma’s back yard, an old warehouse, a museum, a library or even a greenhouse.

In case you can’t quite imagine these unique venues…

8. Gowns for Your Girls

You didn’t think we forgot about your #bridesquad, did you? Your ladies will love that you’re having a boho wedding. You could pick one gorgeous gown with a boho feel or just give your girls a color scheme to stay within and set them free in Free People! Result? A deconstruct look and happy pals!

Get inspired by a few of our favorites…

9. Aesthetic Goals

Yes, even your cake can be boho. Aesthetic goals. Leave the icing florets at the bakery — boho cakes are simple and romantic. Details like flowers and cake stands will add something special to your delicious dessert. More “naked” cakes here.

Three variations on a simple and romantic cake…

10. Kiddie Approved

Can’t forget the little ones! We’re quite positive the children in your wedding will approve of the laid back vibe of your boho wedding. There are so many cute touches you can add here and they will eat. it. up. Click here for even more inspiration for the little ones.

Three different takes on boho style for the little ones…

Dreaming of a bohemian wedding yet? Yea, we thought so! What aspect sold you? The decor? Venues? Clothing? Let us know in the comments!

This year we are looking at a more modern take on bridal hair trends. 2016 has been the year of the contemporary modern bride when it came to fashion and bridal hairstyles is no exception. From veil alternatives to fun pieces and more low key looks this year’s hair trends feel more energetic and revamped. Here are 8 bridal hair trends that every bride will want to try this 2016.

1- PonyTail

The 2016 the name of the hair game is low key. We are looking at hairstyles that are more low key than we have ever seen them before. This year brides have opted for pony tails as their bridal hair. The reason being pony tails are easy and fun to wear while they can be dressed up or down for whatever theme your wedding may be.

They can be worn down low, up high or even to the side. However, if a ponytail seems too casual for you, you can always add flowers, braids or even hair accessories to dress it up.

2-Middle Parts

By now middle parts have established themselves as being part of those trends that is back with a vengeance. Long gone are the days when you tried to avoid a middle parting your hair instead now you want to have a middle part to be on trend. Influencers such as super model Kendall Jenner have been seen sporting a middle part at different events.

The best part about the middle part is that it can be worn with multiple looks. You can wear it with a ponytail, a bun or even with your hair in waves. The options are endless. If you want to dress it up, you can always go for a classic updo and just change-up the parting in your hair.

3-Loose Waves

While waves and curls have traditionally been a bridal go to look. We are now looking at an upgrade for this do. While it has always been customary for brides to have curls in their hair for their special day it has always been a tighter curl.

This 2016 we are expecting to see loose waves as the most popular bridal hairstyle. Not only will we see loose waves as one of the hottest bridal hairstyle trends but we will see it in different shapes and styles. The loose waves style will be in updos, with headbands, or flowers even incorporated in braids.

4-Braids

Oh how we are loving the braid trend. Braids have truly taken over 2016 with a storm. They are being incorporated in everything you can think of. And bridal hair is no exception. We are expecting to see a more mystical look when it comes to braids. Not only will the braids be more low key but they will have accessories in them like Baby’s-breath, jewels and flowers of all kinds.

The great part about incorporating a braid in your hair for your special day is you have so much versatility. You can have a full braided updo, or you can choose to incorporate a braid in your hair with waves the options are endless. They can be transformed into so many styles they go with every wedding theme you can imagine.

5-Floral Accessories

If flower crowns were the trend for 2015 then floral accessories are the trend for 2016. Flowers have always been a big part of weddings regardless of the theme there are always flowers incorporated somewhere. However, this year they are coming in a big way when it comes to incorporating them into bridal hair styles.

Since veils are not as big anymore in bridal gowns many brides are choosing to use flowers in their hair instead. Or they are using them to accessorize their veil. Not only that but flowers are also being used as part of the hair such as in an updo, a loose wave or even in a braid.

6-Headbands

Since veils have become less popular, headbands have become the modern form of a veil. It adds a little touch of sparkle to your hair and it can be integrated with almost any hair style. You can wear your hair up and have a beautiful headband or you can wear your hair down.

Headbands also come in different shapes and sizes so you can choose whichever works best for you. It is important to remember that all though headbands are not as traditional they can also be incorporated into your veil if you choose to do that as well.

7-Half up & Half down

Having your hair half up & half down has always been a bridal hairstyle. However, now it is getting a bit of an upgrade by incorporating all the trends in one. When you choose to have your hair half up & half down you can incorporate flowers, a beautiful veil, a headband or even curls. With this hair style you get to choose exactly what you want and how you want it.

This bridal hairstyle has become such a huge trend because you get to have your hair up and out of your face. If you are a bride that is considering the ponytail trend as your hairstyle but think it is too casual you can always choose this trend. As it is less low-key and casual while still being effortless and beautiful.

8-Hair Clip

We get it. Looking through multiple bridal magazines and Pinterest boards can be overwhelming especially when you are looking for something specific and don’t find it. We are here to tell you that if you cannot decide what to do with your hair on your special day you can have the perfect look with a hair clip. You read that correctly hair clips are coming in a big way as you can build-up on them and have more than one or just one.

The beauty of using hair clips is you get to incorporate your wedding theme and colors as they come in multiple sizes, shapes and forms. Let’s not forget they also work well with all hair lengths from a pixie cut to the longest length. The versatility and laid back factor in hair clips is what makes it such a huge trend for 2016.

Choosing your hairstyle for your wedding can be a tedious task as you want to look your very best while still having a style that will go well with the theme of your wedding. Next time you are looking for bridal hairstyles to take to your hairstylist show them one of these. Please let us know in the comments below which trending bridal hairstyle is your favorite.

1. Tried and True

First things first — you’ve got to pack your goodies in something! You simply can’t go wrong with Louie Vuitton. LV is so iconic because their designs never go out of style!

2. Sneakers on a Plane

Here’s hoping your plane ride to your honeymoon destination is nothing like “Snakes on a Plane”. Your snakeskin sneakers on the other hand, will undoubtedly turn some heads! If you’re looking to travel in comfort and style, (and who isn’t?) these designer sneakers are for you.

3. Beach Bum Babe

If you’re planning on doing a whole lotta nothing on the beach with your babe, you’re going to need a swimsuit that makes you feel like a million bucks! Lucky for you, one-piece swimsuits are back and better than ever. This striped suit puts off some serious retro vibes, but features the very modern, low-cut back that is so trendy right now.

4. Oversized Obsessions

*Disclaimer — You’ll need a beach bag this large by the time you’re done reading this list. We’re overly obsessed with this oversized tote for two reasons. 1. It’s big enough to carry your stuff and his (but don’t tell him that).  2. It has a seriously classic beachy vibe, while remaining seriously chic.

5. La Mer = Luxury

While you’re soaking up the sun with your sweetie, remember, there’s nothing glamorous about skin cancer. This luxury product protects your skin from harmful UV rays, while reversing signs of aging.

6. Breezy and Beautiful

For those days when you just want to wear your swimsuit all day long, you’ll need something breezy and beautiful to throw on. It’s not every day you see a denim colored cover-up, which is why we love this one!

7. Dior Does it Again

Speaking of sun protectants, let’s talk sunglasses! Dior does a beautiful pair in this seasons trendiest color, rose gold. Protecting your retinas from the sun has never looked so chic.

8. Effortless Style

Spending a day exploring your tropical paradise? Rompers are the perfect way to look like a goddess without putting in the effort of putting together an outfit. Just throw on this gorgeous, teal number on and you’re ready for a day out and about with your handsome man!

9. The Essentials

Because you can’t run around barefoot for your entire honeymoon, you’ll need something basic and comfortable that you can dress up or down. Steve Madden can do no wrong in this department.

10. Your Year in White

Dinner date for two? Continue Your Year in White with this crochet maxi. The pretty, romantic look of it really sells us. The crochet fabric (i.e.breathable) is just a bonus. Perfect for a romantic getaway on an indescribable (and hot) island.

11. A Little Lingerie

You know we had to include this somewhere on our list! A little lingerie never hurt anyone, so if you’ve never been the type to wear something so luxurious to bed, your honeymoon is the time to try it out. Nothing too scandalous here — just a fun, tropical printed, short and tank set in satin.

Hope you found this list fun and useful! Which of these luxury items (if not all of them) will you be taking with you on your honeymoon? If you’ve already taken your honeymoon, what’s the number one thing you would recommend packing? Discuss in the comments!

Just like any other wedding venue and theme, a beach wedding takes a lot of planning and dedication. Although, planning a beach wedding may seem like a simple task it can become overwhelming to find the proper essentials you will need to make your wedding the magical day you have always dreamed of. For this reason we have decided to put together beach wedding essentials that you will need in order to plan.

1. Beach Wedding Essential- Permits

Photocredit- www.glozine.com, www.weddingchicks.com,www.stylemepretty.com, 

Those of us who dream of a beach wedding dream of a relaxing day at the beach in a beautiful setting surrounded by loved ones. However, that can all be quickly ruined if you do not have the correct permits. Yes some beaches don’t require permits but they may have size restrictions and tent restrictions not to mention other things to consider. 

We recommend getting into contact with the local government of the beach you would like to use. This will save you time and heartache as well as give you an idea as to what you will need to have the wedding you have always dreamed of.

2. Beach Wedding Essential- Lighting

Photocredit- www.glozine.com, mydarlingflowers.com, www.colincowieweddings.com

Unlike a reception hall or a restaurant that comes with already installed lighting. When it comes to a beach wedding, you will have absolutely no light but natural daylight. This can become a challenge as you will need to find a way to add the proper lighting to your wedding while still keeping the beach feel. The good news is sand is a great form of covering up pesky electrical cords that may have to hang around the floor.

One way to add lighting to your beach wedding is by using lanterns or candles that will add personality and dimension to your wedding atmosphere.

3. Beach Wedding Essential- FootWear

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At a traditional wedding, you would have your footwear all sorted out. People arrive in formal attire with their shoes on and enjoy the rest of the evening. However, at a beach wedding your guest and you will have to get excited about experiencing sand between your toes. One way to enjoy the sandy moments is by offering your guest a shoe area where they would be able to remove their shoes if they chose to and enjoy the night. Or offering a flip flop station where there are flip flops for all the guest to change to once they arrive.
For the bride and bridal party, it can be a great idea to wear barefoot sandals to keep their look bridal and put together through the entire wedding.

4. Beach Wedding Essential- Wedding Dress

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When it comes to a beach wedding finding the perfect wedding dress can become a little bit more of a hassle as certain fabrics do not do so well in the beach wedding atmosphere. For example, thicker fabrics will not work for a beach wedding as it will become too warm for the bride. As well as heavier wedding dresses will not work neither because it can become very heavy for the bride to carry while walking on sand.

We would recommend a light fabric and more simple fabric such as lace. Lace will allow the bride to travel freely among her guest and wedding party.

5. Beach Wedding Essential- Photography Planning

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Much like lighting wedding photos, your beach photos will require careful planning and thoughtfulness.  The reason being that you will not have the built-in lighting that a ballroom or church would have. This may make taking candid photos a bit more difficult as your photographer waits for the sun to pass through the clouds. It is sometimes very favorable to take beach shots during the overcast morning hours, however for that soft glow which can be very hard to achieve with canned light.  However, with a little bit of planning ahead you can achieve the photos you have always dreamed of and you may be surprised at how beautiful they can be without the direct sun.

We recommend finding a location at the beach that is well lit with natural lighting and/or lighting that you may install. The key to great photos is always having excellent lighting and it doesn’t hurt to hire an excellent photographer as well.  You want to make sure that you choose a photographer who understands natural light and has the right filters for his camera and be sure that he also has experience shooting a beach wedding successfully. You may also want to take advantage of appropriate beach props and include your wedding party as well.

6. Beach wedding Essential- Prepare for the Heat

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Unlike having a wedding in a ballroom or banquet you will not have the luxury of having air conditioning or air ventilation at your wedding. Which may be somewhat of an inconvenience to your guests. For this reason it is important to prepare for the heat. There are ways you can make your guests feel more comfortable without compromising your decoration or wedding theme. Having umbrellas at your wedding as part of your decoration can add a cooling shade while maintaining a contemporary look.

You can also add woven fans to your guest seating. Woven fans will allow your guest to fan themselves whenever they feel the need to do so. If you are trying to find a way to maintain your wedding cool from the heat at all times you may want to consider a draped tent. A draped tent will keep your guests under shade the entire wedding while adding a mystical feel to your wedding theme, also consider boho tipis.

When it comes to planning a beach wedding considering these essentials while you plan can save you a lot of time and headaches. Have you planned a beach wedding? If so tell us below what tips would you give other brides that are planning a beach wedding.