INVITATION ETIQUETTE

Did you know that there IS actually something called "Invitation Etiquette"? It guides us to the correct way and procedure to follow when selecting, addressing and sending the invites for that special day!


The creation of your invitation sets the tone for the event, and announces to your guests what type of celebration that they are invited to attend. Setting the tone includes the style of the invitation, the choice of paper, the color and the fonts. All that wrapped up into a work of art! WOW!!!! that seems like alot.

Just a sample of Unique invitations

I am finding today that a lot of brides are venturing out from the standard white invitation in a plain white envelope. They are adding their own touch, making it personal. Some are continuing the theme of their wedding throughout all the paper items being used - invitations, save the date cards, RSVP cards, menus and programs.

Last season I had a bride use a fall theme that featured trees and leaves. The invitations, in fact all the paperwork had fall leaves and fall colors on them. We carried that over to the reception by using the names of trees as table identification, colorful fall leaves scattered on the tables, and tree branches adorned with hanging glass teardrops holding tea candles.

Fall themed wedding/programs

 

As a planner I have been asked many times about the proper wording, font, and when you should mail the invitations. But one question that asked on almost a regular basis is "Is it ok to ask for money on a wedding invitation?" My answer would be a loud NO.

It is not socially acceptable or a tactful way to ask for cash this way! The question usually comes from clients in their 20's or 30's who have been living together and have all the items they need for their home. They also tend not to register for traditional gifts.

My recommendation to them is always - that this type of request is best passed on verbally by family and friends when they are asked what to get the couple. The couple if asked can make a suggestion by saying something like "We are saving for a down payment for our first home, so if you would like to give us a check, that is how we would use it." You should never dictate to guests what to give you.

A recent suggestion that I have given to my couples is to have a website for their wedding event, and on their they can list their gift registries......to include maybe a Honeymoon Gift registry.....such as: www.travelersjoy.com . Your guests can purchase gifts for your honeymoon!

www.travelersjoy.com
 
Some brides have also set up an account for charitable donations to be made in their name.


I have even had brides ask on their websites for canned goods to be brought to their reception as a donation to a food bank. instead of bringing gifts.

Your invitation is just that, and invitation to people who you want present to help celebrate your beautiful day!

Make it unique and yours!!!!

~ Marilyn

DECORATING A TABLE

No matter what event you have planned - wedding reception, romantic dinner for two, company coming, or holiday get together - a beautiful table is always a welcomed site.

As a wedding and event planner, as well as a floral designer, the design & decor of the tables is something I enjoy. Planning the color combinations, linens to be used, centerpieces, and even how the napkins will be folded is so energizing.

Color sets the tone for tablescapes, and can be achieved in different ways - linens, flowers, vases, candles, an more! Play around with different looks, you will be surprised what goes with what. I love to add touches from the past to some of my tables, such as old vases, picture frames, etc. Always use your imagination!

Fresh flowers always add that something extra to a table. The containers you use for your arrangements can be something as simple as a clear glass vase, or as elaborate as a crystal vase. I like to use colored ceramic cubes to help set the theme. My favorite containers are some of the old pewter and silver items I have found in flea markets or antique shops. Love them!!!!!! And they add so much to any table!

Think out of the box! You will be surprised what you come up with......

Another item I get really thrilled with when planning a table, is how will I fold the napkins! I really get tired of seeing them stuffed in glasses, or rolled beside the plate! Folding them does take some time and imagination. But they look so good when done and accented with a flower! You will notice in this picture below I have inserted pink roses in the napkin to make the color pop! This table was done in silver and pinks!

I love to add lots of color to some events, and this purple and lavender event was so beautiful! As you see below in the picture it simply says - beautiful and elegant!

Checking the current color trends is a good way to pick colors for your tables! Pantene always has the current color trends for the seasons shown on their site! Visit it often for ideas!

Another way to add some interest on your table is with the use of fruits as your centerpiece. I have take a clear vase and placed green apples in it for a different look. Using some vines around it, I have also placed green apples on it! Simple and classy!

Another idea using one of my unique old vases! The linens are champagne and brown!

One of my all time favorites is the table below - simple and very elegant all in one!!!

Fall wedding receptions and events are interesting, the colors are beautiful and many items can be used to compliment the table - gourds, pumpkins, fall foliage, and more! Worth trying!

These are just a few of the tables that have been done by Unique & Yours events! More to come, so check back often! Working on some new ideas, color combinations and floral arrangements.

WHAT'S YOUR COLOR

WEDDING COLORS AND THEME

Brides often ask when they should decide on the color scheme of their wedding and reception. My answer is at the beginning, often before you shop for your wedding dress. It is beneficial to have colors and a theme, as well as the time of the year when your wedding will be held prior to doing any shopping.

Colors will help set the tone of your wedding. Fall weddings tend to feature colors such as gold, green, burgundy, along with these fabulous colors which have been reported as the 2010 Fall Colors of choice for weddings.

Fall/Winter:
deep red
teal
violet
mocha
sage

You can take any of these colors and add accent colors to make things pop. I recommend choosing two main colors and two accent colors. White and ivory are great fillers. Picking your attendants dresses is easier if you have your color palette decided. And they do not all have to be the same color or style. Let your bridesmaids help in that decision by trying on several styles and colors. Remember you do have the final approval as it is YOUR wedding. Be sure and ask for samples of the colors when your decision is made. This will help in future planning, such as the matching of linens and flowers.

Your accent colors can be used in your flowers, as well as the vests and ties of the groomsmen. I really like using several colors rather than just staying with one color. It gives your event a more vibrant setting.

Use the same colors at your reception venue also. And this can be one in chair coverings, table linens, flowers and much more. Be creative! Florists and wedding designers have a way of making it happen! And it does not need to be expensive. Simple and elegant are often more appealing.

Ask your planner for suggestions also. Chances are they have seen these colors used before and can give you valuable input. Most planners are also talented decorators for receptions!

Make your wedding “Unique and Yours” with your choices!