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What To Give For 30th Wedding Anniversary: Top Gift Ideas

Today, we’re going to be looking at what to give for 30th wedding anniversary. The 30 year anniversary is no doubt a huge milestone. Three whole decades together is definitely something worthy of celebrating, even if you don’t celebrate individual anniversaries usually. From paper to cotton to leather, there is a traditional gift theme alongside every year of marriage. But what is the 30th? Let’s take a look – and some gift ideas for him, and for her.

What Is The Traditional Gift For 30th Wedding Anniversary?

You’ve come a long way since first gifting each other paper gifts for your one-year anniversary! The traditional gift for a 30th wedding anniversary is the pearl. It symbolizes purity and wisdom – which after 30 years together, is likely something you both have a lot of!

What Is The Modern Gift For 30th Wedding Anniversary?

The modern gift for a 30th wedding anniversary is the diamond. It symbolizes strength and being able to endure anything. It also is a symbol of clarity – as nothing is clearer than a diamond!

Whether you opt for the modern or traditional gift theme, it’s certainly not going to be a cheap anniversary. But we have lots of ideas which we’ll be taking a look at later in this article; whether you’re on a tighter budget or you’re looking for something more extravagant.

Traditional Colors And Gemstones For 30th Wedding Anniversary

There are also traditional colors and gemstones that go alongside every anniversary. For the 30th wedding anniversary, the color green is symbolic. And if you’re looking for an alternative gemstone to a pearl or diamond, you could opt for jade too.

30th Anniversary Gift For Wife

Let’s start with looking at gift ideas for her. Women are more often than not, much easier to buy for! That’s always been the case for me, anyway. Here are some of our favorite ideas that you may like to consider.

Jewelry

The obvious choice is some form of jewelry. Whether it be a ring, a bracelet, earrings, or a necklace – there’s plenty to choose from in the way of pearls and diamonds. This CHAULRI Genuine Premium White Pearl Pendant Necklace 18K Gold Plated 925 Silver is a stunning choice, that will take her breath away.

Check Price on Amazon

It comes in at just under $150 and is the perfect gift for a 30th wedding anniversary. With a freshwater cultured white pearl, you’ll be dazzling everyone when you’re wearing this. As no two pearls are the same, this is a completely unique gift.

And there’s even a small diamond-like gem, so you’ll be combining modern and traditional. It’s important to note that the diamond is made from cubic zirconia, and not a real diamond.

It comes highly recommended on Amazon and it makes for a radiant gift for your significant other.

Watch

Another great idea is a watch. Whether you’re opting for modern or traditional, it’s super easy to find a watch with diamonds or pearls. I love this Anne Klein Women’s Premium Crystal-Accented Watch and Bangle Set. They’re faux pearls and diamonds, but the set is absolutely stunning, and is even water-resistant up to 100ft! The set is priced at around $70 – which I think is a steal for such a gorgeous set.

Check Price on Amazon

It’s described as comfortable, consistent, and high quality – what more could you possibly ask for from a gift?

There are plenty of other gifts you could opt for. The sweet pea is the flower of the 30th wedding anniversary, so a beautiful bouquet with sweet peas would be lovely. And very meaningful too!

30th Anniversary Gift for Husband

Men are notoriously harder to buy for – especially when needing to incorporate a theme. However, there are a few brilliant ideas you may like to gift your husband. Let’s take a look at some gift ideas for him.

Cufflinks

Not only are cufflinks a nod to your wedding day, but incorporating pearls within the cufflinks, means that they’re perfect as a 30th wedding anniversary gift. This Pearlina White Pearl Cuff links Genuine Freshwater Cultured Pearls come in a gorgeous gift box and are solid stainless steel. This means that they’ll not discolor or rust – they may still be in good shape for the next 30 years of your marriage!

Check Price on Amazon

These are just $39.99 – which makes for a great affordable gift. Plus they come highly recommended, with many 5 star reviews!

Knife

This may seem like an odd choice – but who knew that you could get a Mother of Pearl knife? Perfect if you have a hunter or avid camper in your life. This idea is quite pricey, but the ALSTIN Damascus Steel Mother of Pearl Folding Pocket Knife is a stunning piece. It comes presented in a leather box and is a really unique gift that will leave a lasting impression on your husband.

Check Price on Amazon

The price for this piece is $97, but for the craftsmanship and presentation – I think it’s a fairly reasonable price. And one that will come to good use! It’s 6.9 inches and there’s even a mini one to match which is 5.5 inches if you were looking for the set.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for something more sentimental, for him or for her, there are some gorgeous blankets, glasses, mugs, jewelry boxes, trinket dishes over on Amazon that comes with personalization and 30th wedding anniversary available on them. The world is your oyster – which is quite fitting, considering the 30th wedding anniversary is a pearl!

I hope this article has helped to give you a few ideas of what to give for 30th wedding anniversary. Your gift can be as small or large as you wish. Even a homemade card decorated with pearls would be a touching gift – you don’t need to be spending too much money at all!

What did you get your partner for your 30th wedding anniversary? I would love to hear your answers in the comments below. You may be helping out future couples with gift ideas!

Cowboy Wedding Attire For Guests: What To Wear

Today, we’re going to be looking at cowboy wedding attire guests and the do’s and don’ts at a western wedding. Country weddings are becoming increasingly popular, particularly in the US. When you’re invited as a wedding guest, you may be unsure on what’s the best outfit to wear. And although western weddings often sound dreamy and romantic, the practical side as a guest can be difficult to work an outfit around. Let’s take a look at some top tips and outfit choices on what to wear to a western wedding.

What To Wear To A Country Wedding?

Whether you’re a male or female, you may be confused as to what to wear – but don’t worry! It doesn’t need to be as difficult as you may think. The first thing to bear in mind: is there a dress code? Sometimes on invitations, a dress code is provided. It’s seen as good wedding etiquette to follow any guidelines you’re given around your outfit. Whether that be color, how formal, etc. If there is a dress code, you should follow it.

However, if there’s no dress code – try to base your outfit around the venue and what type of guest you are. Ask yourself these questions:

Are you a close relative of the bride/groom? If so, you may want to dress a little more formally than you usually would.
Are you an evening or day guest? Evening guests often choose far more casual outfits. As day guests will be in many of the photographs, you should take care choosing your outfit.
Where is the wedding taking place? There’s more than likely going to be fields around at a western wedding – heels are a no-go! Opt for wedges or cowboy boots. You don’t want to be sinking into the field with your heels. Depending on how casual the wedding is, you could even wear wellie boots.

Female Wedding Guest Attire For Cowboy Wedding

Here are some top tips and ideas for you to wear if you’re a female attending a western wedding as a guest.

Choose an outfit such as a dress or a jumpsuit – but make sure, it doesn’t touch the ground. It’s likely to be muddy and you don’t want grass stains on your outfit. The ideal length is a few inches from the ground.
Try to avoid clutch bags – it’s best to have your hands free at a western wedding. Whether it be for hitting away bugs or sipping on prosecco, you’ll want your hands visibly available.
If you’re wearing cowboy boots (which lots of female guests do!), make sure your dress is high enough to show off your awesome boots.
Don’t be afraid to showcase your inner cowgirl. Wear a cowgirl hat. Wear cowboy boots. Embrace the wedding wholeheartedly.

Male Wedding Guest Attire For Cowboy Wedding

Male attire is usually much easier. But much like female attire, it all depends on how casual the wedding is. If the wedding is extremely relaxed, you may even be able to wear a shirt, jeans, cowboy boots, and a cowboy hat. However, if it’s a more formal wedding, you can still stick to the cowboy hat, boots, and jeans – but a suit jacket and tie may work best. If you’re unsure about an outfit, the best thing to do is ask the bride or groom.

Dresses To Wear With Cowboy Boots To A Wedding

You may be wanting to wear cowboy boots. But you might be unsure of what dresses look best paired with cowboy boots. Here’s some tips to bear in mind when choosing a dress to go with your cowboy boots:

Short Hem Dresses. Usually, mid-thigh to knee length are the best choices. This is because you can showcase your gorgeous cowboy boots!
Dresses that are longer at the back, but shorter at the front are perfect. They look more formal than a standard shorter dress, but your boots will still be visible.
If you want a dress length down to the floor, perhaps opt for a dress with a slit. This is a great way to still show off your boots to other guests.

There are some lovely dresses on Amazon, that will go perfectly with cowboy boots. Here are some of my favorites.

Example Dresses

1 . The MISSMAY Women’s Vintage Swing Dress brings together country and formal. It’s elegant but still will give off a country vibe when paired with boots. The dress comes in a huge selection of colors, to suit any color scheme, and sizes range from XS to XXL. Prices vary between £45 – £145, depending on the color and size you’re looking for. It’s off the shoulder, which I always think is a great choice for a wedding. And is super breathable so you can dance the night away in the evening.

Check price on Amazon

2 . The Azalosie Wrap Maxi Dress is flowy, airy, and will bring a splash of color to any wedding you attend. It’s a few inches from the floor but also has a high split, which means your boots will still be seen. This dress is breathable, comfortable and will work perfectly for summer country weddings. The sizes start at XS to 3XL and the price tag is £47. It comes in a range of colors – but don’t be afraid to go bold!

This is just a few ideas to give you some inspiration for outfits you might like to wear.

Check price on Amazon

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you become more familiar with cowboy wedding attire for guests and given you some ideas. If you choose an outfit and you’re unsure whether it’s suitable, be sure to ask the happy couple. They’ll more than likely be happy to help with any questions you have. And make sure that you’re comfortable!

Have you attended a western wedding recently? If so, what outfit did you wear? I would love to know! So please feel free to leave any answers in the comments below.

Large Shadow Box For Wedding Dress: Displaying Your Gown

Today, we’re going to be looking at a large shadow box for wedding dress and other ways you may want to display your wedding gown. Many brides want to preserve their wedding dress and ensure it stays as perfect as can possibly be. And why not!? You probably paid hundreds, if not thousands, for your dream dress, so you likely want to display it in all it’s glory. But how? Let’s take a look.

What Is A Shadow Box?

Shadowboxing your dress is thought to be the best way of preserving your dress in the best possible way. Once the wedding is over, your dress is usually cleaned and pressed to ensure it goes into the shadow box looking as pristine as possible. This method ensures that no yellowing can occur to your dress and that things like dust and air moisture can not cause any damage.

Shadow Boxes For Wedding Dress

You can go to a shop and someone can do this for you, or you can buy a kit and do it yourself at home. While this is the cheaper option, it isn’t advised that you do it yourself unless you know what you’re doing. There are stores such as David’s Bridal that can take care of the cleaning and preservation for you. Their Cleaning and Preservation Kit is $149.95 and takes just two to six weeks.

They offer a variety of services such as cleaning, cleaning, and preservation, and their premium service which is an additional $50.

Top Tips

If you’re doing the cleaning and preservation yourself, you may want to follow these top tips.

Do Your Research. It’s important to know what you’re doing before you even touch your dress. There are plenty of tutorials and posts online to help you along the way.
Always use gloves when handling your dress in any way,
Don’t store your gown in an area where the temperature can be too extreme (hot or cold), such as a cellar, attic or garage, etc.
Wrap your dress in acid-free tissue paper or store in an acid-free plastic garment bag that is safe from harsh light and temperatures. Under a bed, or in a closet is ideal. (If you’re hanging a dress, be sure to use a padded hanger).

Once your dress is cleaned and preserved as best as possible, you can either buy a shadow box frame (these can be extremely costly, so be sure to set aside enough of your budget). If you choose to buy the shadow box yourself, you can purchase from stores such as Unbox the Dress starting at around $200 for the bodice display piece alone!

For a simpler storage box, stores like Etsy are perfect, and you can buy personalized boxes for around $30.

Wedding Dress Frame

You can buy a range of frames and shadow boxes from stores like Hobby Lobby (US) and Hobbycraft in the UK. Arts and crafts stores are the best place to start looking. It’s important to note that you’ll need a large box if displaying the whole dress. This is why most brides opt for displaying a certain part of that dress. That way, it keeps the price down and takes up less space. Let’s be honest, you’ll need an extremely big space to display your gown!

Wedding Dress Display Cabinet

If space is no worry in your home, you could even opt for a display cabinet! This way you can show off the dress in it’s entirety. Not only will it look stunning showcasing your beautiful gown, but it will be a daily reminder of your special day.

Cabinets are quite difficult to find and they can be extremely expensive. AliBaba has them available, but they cost $325…and you need to buy a minimum of 5! It may be easier to make your own if either you or your partner are good at DIY. Or find a bespoke service for a wedding dress display cabinet. However, these prices can be anything upwards from $1000.

If like me, your gown wasn’t too expensive, the preservation of your gown may cost more than the gown itself did! But if preserving your gown is important to you, it’s definitely something I would recommend. Especially if you plan on offering your gown to generations down the line – which is still a surprisingly popular tradition!

Conclusion

To conclude, I hope this article has helped you to become more familiar with large shadow boxes for wedding dresses and other ways you may want to display your gown. However you want to preserve and display it, your gown is likely a clothing item that you’ll treasure forever – so it’s definitely worth the time and care put into it. Whether it’s kept in a box, or on display.

One of the best places to ask…is your dry cleaner! This was surprising to me too. But one of their most common jobs is cleaning and pressing wedding dresses. So if they do not offer the service themselves, they will likely be able to recommend someone that can help you. So your local dry cleaner is a great place to start if you’re unsure where to find a framing service.

Shadowboxing isn’t for everyone, but it’s the perfect way to cherish your gown forever. And remember to set aside a chunk of your wedding budget. Whether you’re doing it from the comfort of your home or having it done professionally – it isn’t cheap!

Have you used a large shadow box for your wedding dress? Or do you plan to display your dress when your wedding is over? If so, please let me know if this was something you did yourself or if this was done for you. If you could recommend any framing stores or preservation services – that would be great! Please feel free to leave any suggestions in the comments below. You’ll likely be helping out future brides with their own display dresses.

Mini Adirondack Chair Cake Toppers: DIY and Buying Your Own

Today, we’re going to be looking at mini Adirondack chair cake toppers. What you put on top of your cake probably isn’t high on your list of priorities for things to sort out before the big day – but it does need to be sorted! If you’re looking for a beach chair cake topper for your wedding – the mini Adirondack chairs are perfect. But where to buy them? Can you make them yourself? You may not even know what an Adirondack chair is! Let’s take a look.

What Is An Adirondack Chair?

Typically, an Adirondack chair is an outdoor chair with wide armrests. You’ll often see them at the beach. The seat is usually higher at the back and slates downwards as you move further back. It takes it’s name from the Adirondack mountains.

Why Have A Cake Topper?

You absolutely do not need to have a cake topper at your wedding, but I think it’s a great idea. Whether you choose mini-figures of yourself, or a sign – it really adds personality to the cake. At my wedding, I had a “Happily Ever After” glitter sign at the top of my cake, and I loved it!

If you want to give your cake a personal touch, I would recommend a cake topper. It’s a great way to easily identify your cake and it’s usually something inedible – so you can keep it in your memory box long after the wedding day is over.

Adirondack Chair Wedding Cake Topper

If you’re having a beach wedding, a surfer wedding, or maybe you just love Adirondack chairs – mini Adirondack chairs for your cake topper is the perfect idea. They come in a range of colors and styles, so you can really tailor the design to your wedding. We’ll be looking at some of the top choices on online marketplaces such as Etsy and eBay. Plus a tutorial to make your very own if you’re looking for something truly original.

DIY Adirondack Chair Cake Toppers

If you’re creative and love to be crafty, why not try making your own? There’s a heap of tutorials online but my favorite is this one from A Bride on the Budget. The best thing about making your own is that you can tailor it to whichever size you’re looking for – and choose whichever color you want too! Something to bear in mind is that this may take a few hours – so you’ll need plenty of patience.

To make your own, you’ll need:

Pattern from Kyle’s Woodworking (printed)
Craft Sticks
Wood Glue
X-Acto Knife
Pencil
Paint of your Choice
Paint Brush

It really is ready in just a few simple steps. But it is time consuming. This may be a fun activity to do with your partner. Especially if you each decorate your own chairs. Most of the items you’ll need, you likely already have at home so it won’t be very costly at all. And the end product will likely look just as good as one you can buy from the store!

Buying Mini Adirondack Chair Wedding Cake Toppers

If (like me), you have very little patience and getting creative with your hands isn’t something you’re great at – don’t worry! There are plenty of places you’re able to buy your own. The best places to find them are online stores such as eBay and Etsy, but you may be able to find something similar in your local arts and craft stores. It’s worth asking your cake maker if it’s something they can provide, especially as they will know the exact measurements of your cake.

Another place that may be worth looking at toy stores. This may seem an odd one but there are plenty of dollhouse chairs that would work perfectly on top of your cake. They may not be mini Adirondack chairs, but you never know what you may find when looking!

Top Picks to Buy

My top picks to buy that are ready-made are all from Etsy, so that’s definitely the best place to shop around for mini Adirondack chairs. These are some of my favorites on Etsy.

Shop: Adorably Imperfect
Name: Blue or White Mini Adirondack Chair with a Starfish
Price: £7 each
Perks: You can email the shop if you require another color, and they will do their best to accommodate your needs
Shop: 1AdventurousMoose
Name: Mini Foam Adirondack Chairs
Price: £3 each
Perks: This chair comes in a range of colors, including black, brown, green, white, orange, purple and more! Another bonus is that it’s made of foam. This means it’s easy to manipulate in whichever position you need it to be in
Shop: Kousoulas Kreations
Name: Mini Adirondack chairs various colors
Price: £7 each
Perks: The quality of these chairs means that they’ll last longer than others. Plus not only do they come in a huge selection of colors, but they also come in 3 different styles to choose from too!

If you’re looking for some more inspiration on Etsy, you can find more mini chairs to choose from here. Most prices are reasonable, so it’s a great way to find a cake topper at a good price.

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you to become more familiar with mini Adirondack chair cake toppers. Whether you’re looking to make your own or buy for your cake – it really couldn’t be easier! And particularly works well if you’re having a beach wedding. Even your cake will be showcasing the beach theme! You can even put mini-figures in the chairs too – why not go all out? It is your wedding day, after all!

Did you use mini Adirondack chairs for your wedding cake topper? If so, please let me know in the comments below if you made them yourself, or bought them outright – I would love to hear from you. You also may be helping out any future brides and grooms with their own wedding cake toppers!

Free Color Swatches For Bridesmaid Dresses: Where To Get Them

Today, we’re going to be looking at free color swatches for bridesmaid dresses and where you can get them. Color swatches for weddings are actually super important. There’s so many things to organize for a wedding, and when choosing a bridesmaid dress, you want the color match to be easy. And of course, you want it to fit in with the rest of your wedding theme.

What Is A Color Swatch?

You’ll likely already know what a color swatch is, but if you’re unaware, a color swatch is a small piece of material, that comes in a range of different fabrics and colors. When you receive the small piece of material, you can see how it matches to other parts of your wedding, and decide whether it’s the choice you’d like to go for. Once you’ve made a decision, you can order the material and color in whatever you need it for. In this case, bridesmaid dresses.

A color swatch for bridesmaid dresses is usually to ensure that it matches the groomsmen. Tradition states they should be coordinated, after all.

Free Wedding Color Swatches: Where to Get Them

You may be considering receiving lots of color swatch samples. And so you should! Choosing anything for your wedding is a big decision, so you want to be absolutely certain of the color before purchasing. Especially if it’s a big purchase. But where can you get free color swatches? The price will add up if you’re trialing lots of colors. My top picks for free color swatches are:

Kennedy Blue – if you use code 3FREECOLORS, this enables you to get three free color swatches for any of their bridesmaid dresses; which are usually $2-4 each! You can find a range of styles, fabrics, and colors to choose from. This company is US-based.
For Her and For Him – Their color swatches are exclusively for their bridesmaid dresses only. And this store enables you to have 5 free color swatches, from a range of materials and colors. This company is UK based.
The Little Wedding Company – not only does this company offer bridesmaid color swatches, but also swatches for hats, stationery and cakes too! How incredible is that? Much like Kennedy Blue, only 3 free color swatches are permitted. This company is UK based.
Dress and Charm – while there aren’t many styles available, they do allow you to have 9 free color swatches, which is great if you’re completely unsure of which color to go for. Or even if you’re looking for rainbow bridesmaid dresses. This company is US-based.
Physical Stores. Nothing beats physical stores! Most boutiques and bridal stores offer swatches for bridesmaid dresses they stock, so it may be worth going into your local store and asking. Usually, they’re more than happy to let you take swatches away with you and decide if they’re the right match. And shopping locally is always great for supporting small businesses.

Things To Consider

There are a few things you may want to consider when looking for color swatches. Here are some top tips and things to think about.

Order your swatches before you make any final decisions. Even if you’re certain on a color or shade, it’s always best to check – especially if it’s free! Use one of the choices on the list above.
Once you’ve received your swatches and narrowed the choice down, try doing these things. Test the swatch in different lightings and see how it looks. Match against the complexion of your bridesmaids – sometimes your perfect color doesn’t suit them whatsoever.
Be open to other fabrics. Chiffon, velvet, tulle, and sequins are just a few you may like to use for your bridesmaid dresses. And it’s important to note that each color will look slightly different depending on the fabric you decide on. So be sure to get a swatch in each fabric!
Think about whether the color compliments your groomsmen and the color scheme of the wedding. This is especially important if your wedding closely matching is a must for you. You want everything to work well and look good together.

Benefits Of Color Swatches

You may think that color swatches are a waste of time, especially if you already have your heart set on a color and style. But it’s always best to check. And when there’s no expensive, what’s the harm in checking? The benefits of color swatches are:

It makes coordinating easy! You can use them for groomsmen, bridesmaids, flower girls – whoever you want. And it makes planning so much easier and stress-free; which is exactly what you want for your wedding.
Once you have a color, you can inform all of your suppliers of the color you’re opting for. This makes matching everything at your venue super straightforward. Even down to products like chair covers, or napkin rings!
Transportable. When shopping around for items, having a small piece of material that fits into your handbag is convenient for when you need to match something at the last minute.

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you learn where to find free color swatches for bridesmaid dresses and what a huge convenience they are when choosing the color of your bridesmaid dresses. Whether you’re opting for a strict color theme, or something a little more casual – it’s still a great idea. As lighting, material, weather – all of these are factors that can make a color look slightly different.

If you’re completely unsure on colors, most stores that stock bridesmaid dresses will have a full-color palette, but that will not be free.

Did you use color swatches for your wedding? What did you find the advantages were? I would love to see any of your responses in the comments below. If there’s a store I haven’t mentioned that supplies free color swatches, please let me know. You may be helping out a future bride or groom with their bridesmaid dresses!

What To Wear To An Engagement Party At A House: Do’s and Don’ts

Today, we’re going to be looking at what to wear to an engagement party at a house, and other venues. So you’ve just got engaged – what should you be wearing to your engagement party? Or maybe you’ve just been invited to an engagement party as a guest, and there’s been no specified dress code. Let’s take a look at the do’s and don’ts of what to wear.

What Is An Engagement Party?

An engagement party is pretty self-explanatory! It’s a party that celebrates two people on their engagement. This can be done at any venue, and they’re usually a lot of fun. Games can sometimes be played, and drink is often had. There’s often food available for the guests. And speeches are often rife at engagement parties. They usually last a few hours and it can be anything from a small gathering, to hundreds of people!

What To Wear To An Engagement Party?

There’s a few aspects to consider when you’re deciding what to wear to an engagement party. Whether you’re one half of the happy couple or a guest in attendance – it can be a tricky decision. Let’s take a look at some tips and tricks for guests and the newly engaged pair!

Guests

For guests, there is a certain etiquette and unspoken rule to follow when choosing your engagement party outfits. Here’s some things to keep in mind:

Dress Code. Is there a dress code on the invitation? If there is, this makes it super easy to choose an outfit! If there isn’t one, it can be a little more difficult. The best thing to do if you’re completely unsure is to ask. Whether you ask the bride or groom themselves, or someone else attending the party – it may be best to get some clarification.
Where is it? Where the party is happening can be important. You don’t want to show up to a BBQ wearing a formal cocktail dress. Make sure to match your outfit with the vibe of the venue. For example, a BBQ would be a great time to wear a floaty dress with a pair of wedges.
When is it? The time of year is also important. If it’s the middle of Winter, you may want to opt for a coat or pullover with your outfit, particularly if some of it is happening outside. Dressing for the weather is a good idea, even if there’s a dress code.
Overdressed is best! Even if the engagement party is at a house, you may be wanting to wear something casual – but being too casual is a definite no-no! Stay clear of jeans, sweat pants, casual shorts. Being slightly overdressed is always better than underdressed. You don’t want to stick out for the wrong reasons! Even engagement parties at a house require some effort – some will even have a strict cocktail attire code!
Colors. Choosing the color is important. White is a no-go. But light colors that may appear white in photographs (such as pastel pink) should also be avoided.

Bride/Groom

Choosing an outfit for your own engagement party is something that will likely be important to you, but you may be wondering if there’s any etiquette? The good news is – not really! Brides and grooms can often wear whatever they feel most comfortable in at their engagement party.

For brides, it’s often seen as appropriate to wear white. This isn’t something you have to do, but it’s a great place to start owning the color white. This is the first celebration on your journey to becoming newlyweds, so why not take full advantage of wearing white as often as possible? Wearing white also makes it easy to spot the bride among photographs and certainly makes you the leading lady of your special day – which is probably what you’re looking for!

The groom can usually wear whichever color they’d prefer. But it’s often seen as appropriate to wear a button-down shirt, dress pants, and a blazer. The blazer isn’t a must if you’re having a more casual dress code.

For some inspirat

ion for engagement party outfits (for women and men), The Trend Spotter has a great post to give you some ideas on what to wear.

Can You Wear White To An Engagement Party?

Unless you’re the bride, under no circumstances should a female wear white to an engagement party. White is strictly reserved for the bride. This is her moment to shine, and the first time she’ll have the option to wear white for the first step on her wedding journey.

Unless asked by the bride, white should be avoided at all costs. It’s also important to avoid light colors that may appear white from a distance, or in photographs. The bride should be the star of the show at her engagement party – so be sure not to steal the spotlight.

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped to decipher what to wear to an engagement party at a house or any other venue. It’s important to note that although a house may feel more casual, you still need to make some effort – it is a celebration after all!

Ultimately, it comes down to the dress code and the vibe of the engagement party. If the couple want you to wear jeans, then, by all means, go for it! If you’re unsure and there’s no dress code – ask. The happy couple will likely be more than okay to answer any questions. But try to ask in advance, asking last minute isn’t ideal on their special day.

What did you wear to your engagement party? Or as a guest in attendance? Are there any other do’s and don’ts you can think of? If you have an answer to any of these questions, be sure to let me know in the comments below. I love reading through them, and you may be helping out future couples.

Wedding Etiquette: Does The Mother Of The Bride Wear A Corsage?

Today, we’re going to be looking at wedding etiquette and answering the question: does the Mother of the Bride wear a corsage? You may have your buttonholes chosen and your Bridal bouquet at the wedding – but what does the Mother of the Bride wear? She’s a huge part of your special day, and it’s important to include her when deciding on your flowers. A corsage, wristlet, small bouquet – which is best for your mom? Let’s take a look.

Mother Of The Bride Corsage Etiquette

While there is no set wedding etiquette on whether she should wear a corsage, common practice states that a corsage for Mother of the Bride is the most traditional option. However, you can choose whatever your mom feels most comfortable with – we’ll be looking at alternatives to a corsage later in this post!

If you’re looking to be traditional, the Mother of the Bride will usually wear a corsage (along with the Mother of the Groom). The corsage should be on their right-hand side and should be pointing downwards. However, it can be placed anywhere – or can even be a wristlet if you and your mom prefer.

A wristlet may work better if your mom does not want attention drawn from her dress – after all, it is a special day for her too!

It’s important to note that grandmothers are often given corsages too. However, you may wish for your mom to wear a corsage on her dress and your grandmother to wear a wristlet – that way they’re both involved, but in different ways.

Mother Of The Bride Corsage Alternatives

There is absolutely nothing wrong with choosing a traditional corsage for your moms. However, if your wedding is more casual, or modern – you may be looking for a different alternative. One that makes your mom stand out, but isn’t quite as old-fashioned. Let’s take a look at some of the top suggestions you may want to use on your wedding day.

Hairpiece. A floral hair accessory is an easy way to incorporate a flower into your mom’s wedding outfit. If she’s having her hair up, sliding in a floral hair accessory matching the bridal bouquet is a perfect option. It also looks elegant and classy – which is probably the vibe your mom wants for your wedding!
Small Bouquet. Often known as a nosegay bouquet. It should not be as big as the bridesmaids’ bouquets’ (if you have them). You certainly do not want your mom to be unidentifiable as a Mother of the Bride. But a few flowers is the ideal way to get her involved.
Brooch. If your mom loves all things glitz and glam, this may be the option for you. Whether it’s crystals, rhinestones, or any other glittery gem, this is something she’ll be able to wear not just on your wedding day, but for years to come too.
Boutonniere. While tradition calls for groomsmen to wear boutonnieres, there’s nothing stopping the Mother of the Bride wearing one too, if she prefers! Whether it’s a single flower or a small cluster, you’ll certainly know that she’s an important part of your wedding day.
Clutch Bag. Your mom may want something subtle and simple. If that’s the case, you could attach a floral spray to her chosen bag. That way she doesn’t have to worry about ruining her dress, or having a corsage on her wrist throughout the day!
Floral Necklace. If your mom is wanting something that will make her pop, why not opt for a necklace? Intricately incorporating delicate flowers into a necklace looks beautiful and certainly makes a statement.

For more alternatives to corsages, you can try sites lite Etsy and Not on the High Street for ideas.

Or, if you’re feeling particularly bold – you can skip the corsage altogether! I’m not a huge lover of flowers, so besides me, my husband, and my bridesmaids, we had no flowers! Not only was it my preference – but it saved hundreds of dollars on flowers too! This is always an option if tradition isn’t important to you.

Wearing A Corsage On The Wedding Day

If you do decide to opt for a corsage on the wedding day (it is still the most popular option, after all), there are some things you may want to bear in mind when choosing your Mother of the Bride outfit and how to take care of your corsage.

Be sure to find out what your corsage will look like before deciding on your outfit. You do not want your wedding outfit to clash with the flower color choice.
Choose flowers which are sturdy – especially if the wedding starts in the morning; you’ll be needing it to last all day! The best flowers to choose are ones such as baby’s breath, roses, and orchids.
Spray the bottom of the stems with cold water – this keeps the flowers looking beautiful and fresh.
Communication! This is the most important point. If you’re not comfortable wearing a corsage but your daughter wants you too, just tell her. I’m sure she’ll understand and accommodate your needs in any way she can.

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped to answer the question of: does the Mother of the Bride wear a corsage? And help with any alternatives if a corsage just isn’t the right option for you. Being comfortable is paramount, so discuss any issues you have with your floral arrangement as soon as you can.

While tradition does say that corsages should be worn by both mothers (and potentially grandmothers), you do not have to follow this and you should choose whichever feels best for your wedding.

Did you have corsages for your mother at your wedding? Or do you plan to? I would love to know! Or maybe you have an alternative we haven’t looked at. If so, please feel free to leave any suggestions in the comments below.

Can You Wear Sequins To A Wedding: Wedding Do’s and Don’ts

Today, we’re going to be answering the question: can you wear sequins to a wedding? When you receive an invitation to a wedding, after the initial excitement, one question will come to mind: what do I wear? Some invitations will incite a dress code and others won’t. Regardless of whether a dress code is given, there are some guidelines to follow when choosing your wedding attire.

You may have found the perfect sequin dress – but is it appropriate? Which other outfits and styles are appropriate for a wedding? We’ll be covering it all in this post.

What Is A Sequin Dress?

Sequins are small reflective pieces of plastic that are sewn into a dress to make it glittery and glamorous. Wearing a fully sequined dress will make for dazzling photographs and are often seen as very formal. There is definitely nothing casual about a sequin dress and sequins are often work to the most prestigious events.

Should I Be Wearing A Sequin Dress (Wedding Guest)?

If you’ve been invited to a wedding, guidelines about wedding attire suggest that staying away from sequins is the best option. This is especially important if you’re an all-day guest. This is because you’re likely one of the couple’s nearest and dearest, and none of the attention should be taken away from the happy couple.

However, if you do wish to wear sequins to the evening of the ceremony, this is seen as slightly more acceptable. Especially if you veer away from light color sequins, and go shorter, rather than full-length gowns. This Sequin Wrap Skater Dress from Boohoo would work perfectly for an evening guest.

If you do decide to opt for sequins, here are some guidelines to follow:

Do not match the color scheme of the wedding – you do not want to be confused as a bridesmaid
Opt for a shorter dress, as full-length dresses are seen as more formal
Stay away from light-colored sequins

The most important thing you can do…is ask the bride! If you’re unsure whether a dress is suitable and you have your heart set on wearing it, the best thing to do is ask. The bride may be casual about wedding attire and be more than happy for you to wear sequins. Or the dress code itself is glitz and glam, or sequins…don’t be afraid to adorn the bling!

Many bridal and bridesmaids’ dresses are full of sequins, so do be sure to check with the couple before you rock up wearing your gorgeous glittery gown!

What Should I Wear To A Wedding? Do’s And Don’ts

There’s a certain set of guidelines you usually follow when attending a wedding (unless the dress code says otherwise). Let’s take a look at some things to consider when choosing your wedding outfit.

Wedding Do’s: What To Wear

When you’re invited as a day guest, if there is no dress code, it may be best to decide on your outfit depending on where the wedding is taking place.

For example:

Casual Wedding: Floaty dress with small heels
Formal Wedding: Cocktail dress (or similar floor-length gown) or a tuxedo
Semi-Formal Wedding: Maxi dress or a suit with no blazer
Barn Wedding: Flowy dress with cowboy boots
Beach Wedding: Sundress or linen shirt with smart shorts

If you’re attending as an evening guest, you have a bit more freedom. Shorter evening dresses or more casual outfits are more standard at the reception, and you do not often have to adhere to a dress code (if there is one). So have fun with your outfit!

If you’re given a dress code on your invitation, it is seen as polite to adhere to the guidelines, even if you’re not a lover of the color scheme! If you’re unsure whether an outfit is suitable, ask the couple before the wedding – they’ll likely be more than happy to help.

Wedding Don’ts: What Not To Wear

There’s a few things to avoid when choosing your wedding guest outfit, and some items you should absolutely never wear to a wedding! Here are some guidelines to follow as a guest:

Avoid white or any variation of white (cream, ivory, champagne). These colors are usually strictly for the bride and should not be worn under any circumstances – unless requested by the dress code.
Avoid anything too glamorous or extravagant. You do not want to be taking any attention away from the happy couple, so don’t dress like you’re the one getting married!
Do not match the Bridal party. The Bridal party will usually be wearing the same color, and so not to confused as a member of the Bridal party – avoid that color. If you’re unsure of the color, check with the Bride.
Do not wear anything too revealing. You do not want to be remembered at the wedding for the wrong reasons. Maybe save your plunging necklines and open-back dresses for another occasion.
Avoid Jeans and Sweatpants. This goes without saying, but do not dress too casual. Even the most casual weddings deserve some effort!

If you need any clarification on any of your outfit, just ask. However, the dress code of the wedding is usually clear from the invitation.

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped to answer the question: can you wear sequins to a wedding? It may feel overwhelming to follow the wedding attire guidelines, but you’ll choose the perfect outfit in no time! As long as you’re comfortable, and adhering to the dress code – you’ll get through the wedding without a hitch!

What do you think is the best outfit to wear to a wedding? Do you have a go-to outfit that always comes out around wedding season? If so, let me know any suggestions in the comments below. I love reading through them – and you may be helping out a fellow wedding guest with their outfit!

Brother and Sister Wedding Dance Songs

Today, we’re going to be looking at brother and sister wedding dance songs. It may not be a tradition like the Father/Daughter dance, or the first dance between the bride and groom – but a dance becoming increasingly popular is the brother-sister wedding dance. Whether you’re doing something funny that you’ve been working on the choreography since you were children (Ross and Monica anyone?!) or something heartfelt, we’ve got you covered!

The most important part is that the dance is memorable for you both! So let’s take a look at the top choices for sister and brother songs for weddings. And you’ll likely be having a dance with both your parents. So why not include your siblings too?! The relationship between siblings often has the same dynamic as the ones with your parents.

Heartfelt Brother And Sister Wedding Songs

If you’re looking for a song to show how close you are to your sibling, and how much you love them – take a look through these suggestions.

You’ve Got a Friend – Carole King. With lyrics such as: “You just call out my name, and you know, wherever I am, I’ll come runnin’, to see you again“, it’s a very apt and beautiful song to remind your sibling that you’ll always be there for them.
Hero – Mariah Carey. This may seem a sad song choice, but it’s really an empowering song to remind your sibling how strong and incredible you think they are, with lyrics such as: “when you feel like hope is gone, look inside you and be strong, and you’ll finally see the truth, that a hero lies in you“.
Lean on Me – Bill Withers. A beautiful, slow song to let your sibling know that your love for them will never change no matter. With meaningful lyrics such as, “Lean on me. when you’re not strong, and I’ll be your friend, I’ll help you carry on“.
Whenever You Remember – Carrie Underwood. With lyrics such as, “When you think back on all we’ve done, I hope you’re proud, when you look back and see how far we’ve come, it was our time to shine, and nobody could hold us down“, there will not be a dry eye in house after this dance!

Sentimental but Lighthearted Brother and Sister Wedding Songs

If you want something that will leave guests with a smile on their faces and a warm feeling inside, these might be worth looking at.

You’ve Got a Friend in Me – Toy Story. If either of you love Disney, this is a great ode to Disney and a super sweet song. With lyrics such as, “You got troubles, I’ve got them too, there isn’t anything I wouldn’t do for you, we stick together and see it through“.
You’re My Best Friend – Queen. If your sibling is your best friend as well, this is the perfect song, with lyrics like, “I’ve been with you such a long time, you’re my sunshine and I want you to know, that my feelings are true, I really love you“. Heartfelt but upbeat.
Isn’t She Lovely – Stevie Wonder. For a song to remind your sister how beautiful she is, inside and out – look no further. It has such lovely lyrics, such as, “Isn’t she lovely? Isn’t she wonderful? Isn’t she precious?“.
You’ll Be in My Heart – Phil Collins. Another ode to Disney is this hit from Tarzan. It has meaningful lyrics as, “You seem so strong, my arms will hold you, keep you safe and warm, this bond between us, can’t be broken“. What better way to show your unbreakable bond with your sibling?

Upbeat and Memorable Brother and Sister Wedding Songs

Do you want something funny, fast and leave your guests crying with laughter? Why not choreograph a song to one of these incredible songs?

I’ll Be There for You (Friends) – The Rembrandts. It’s one of the most iconic songs, and it’s not hard to see why. Remind your sibling you’ll always be there, with lyrics like, “I’ll be there for you when the rain starts to pour, I’ll be there for you like I’ve been there before.”
Bye Bye Bye – N*Sync. There are absolutely zero lyrics to link to your sibling in this song – but it sure is iconic! And would make for a hilarious first dance between two siblings.
We Are Family – Sister Sledge. If you’re a brother, looking for a song to show your unwavering love for your sister – this is the song. It has amazing lyrics, “all of the people around us they say, can they be that close, just let me state for the record, we’re giving love in a family dose.”
U Can’t Touch This – MC Hammer. And lastly, another iconic song that needs no explanation is U Can’t Touch This. Imagine the moves you can both pull off during this dance!

If you’re still stuck, or looking for more options, take a look at this article from My Wedding Songs. For a brother and sister dance, it may be nice to choose something personal. Something that is meaningful to both of you. But if you don’t have a song like that – any of these options will work perfectly.

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you see how easy it is to find brother and sister wedding dance songs that are memorable. I don’t have a brother but mine and my sister’s song was most definitely Wannabe by The Spice Girls. If you have a song that you spent hours creating dances for or singing at the top of your lungs – it may be fun to choose that! As long as you and your sibling are comfortable, that’s the most important thing.

Did you have a sister and brother dance at your wedding? Or do you plan too? If so, leave any suggestions in the comments below. I love reading through your replies! And you’ll likely be helping out future brides and grooms with their own dance.

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Mother Of The Bride Dresses Champagne Color Tea Length

Today, we’re going to be looking at Mother of the Bride Dresses champagne color tea-length. Tea-length Mother of the Bride dresses are the most popular length to opt for, for your daughter’s special day. Being a Mother of the Bride is something you’re likely extremely looking forward to, and a day you’ll treasure forever. So, of course, you’ll want to look your very best!

Full-length dresses give off a bridesmaid vibe, which is not what you’re looking for as MotB. And a short dress isn’t quite formal enough for you on your child’s wedding day. So what should you be wearing? Let’s a look at some easily accessible choices from Amazon.

What Is A Tea Length Dress?

A tea-length dress is an absolutely perfect option for a Mother of the Bride. It falls around 3 inches below the knee and is great for a classy, sophisticated look. Whether you’re opting for a traditional Mother of the Bride look, or something a little more casual, this length works for everything!

The tea-length dress takes it’s name from the 1920’s, as this was the style of dress that a woman would wear to the tea-table around that time.

Why Champagne Mother Of The Bride Dress Tea Length?

It’s important not to wear a color that’s not too much like the bridesmaids, as you want to look slightly different – you are the Mother of the Bride, after all. But you also want a color that doesn’t take away from your gorgeous bride. That is why champagne works beautifully. The color goes with almost any other color, as it’s seen as a neutral. It’s also seen a royal, elegant color – so will make your mom look like the Queen that she is.

It also works well with the color white, so if the bride is opting for a white gown, you’ll compliment each other perfectly.

Champagne Mother Of The Bride Dress Tea Length Options

While it may not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of searching for a Mother of the Bride outfit, you will be surprised at the amazing dresses you can find on Amazon! Amazon stocks a huge range of gorgeous champagne dresses, that will fit in beautifully for the big day. Let’s take a look at some of my favorites!

Alex Evening’s Women’s Tea Length Dress and Jacket (Mother of the Bride)

If you’re looking for a dress that oozes sophistication, look no further. The Alex Evening’s Tea Length Dress and Jacket starts at just $149.99 and comes in petite and regular sizes (Regular: 6-18 & Petite: 6-18). It comes in a range of colors, but the most striking is certainly the champagne.

The material is 98% polyester and 2% spandex. It closes with a zipper and is bra-friendly! It’s important to note that this dress is hand wash only, so be very delicate with it!

Adding a jacket really adds something to the outfit. It adds a touch of class and is great if the wedding is happening outside of summer – as you may become a little cold in the evening.

One thing worth mentioning: this dress is full of glitter, and you’ll likely be leaving a little sparkle wherever you go!

Women Prom Tea Dress Vintage Swing Cocktail Length (Mother of the Bride)

If you’re wanting to ditch the glitter and glam, and opt for simplistic elegance – this is the dress for you. And at the fraction of the price of our first choice, the Women Prom Tea Dress Vintage Swing is just $42.99. The sizes range from XS-3XL, meaning it’s perfect for women of all shapes and sizes.

The material is 94% nylon and 6% spandex. The lining is 100% polyester. It’s style portrays a soft and classy look, and will work great with a jacket in the colder months.

The decorative belt makes the dress look even more beautiful – and if you’re looking for a dress on a budget, this option is brilliant.

Alex Evening’s Women’s Tea Length Dress with Rosette Detail (Mother of the Bride)

Much like the first option we looked at, this dress comes in a range of sizes (Regular: 4-18 & Petite: 4-18). Some of these options are temporarily out of stock, so it may be best to keep checking regularly! The Alex Evening’s Women’s Tea Length Dress costs around $200, depending on the size you’re looking for – but it’s an absolutely dazzling dress.

The material is 50% nylon, 30% rayon, and 20% polyester. The lining is 100% polyester. It closes with a zipper and is also hand wash only – so be sure to be gentle.

The material is a stretchy lace-type material and you’ll certainly be shining bright in this dress on your bride’s big day. It’s described as very fitting and very modest.

Other Dresses

This is just a small selection of some of the champagne dresses you’ll find on Amazon. There are plenty of outfits that will work perfectly for the Mother of the Bride – so be sure to take a good look!

Conclusion

I hope you’ve enjoyed this article exploring Mother of the Bride dresses, champagne color, and tea length. Whether you’re looking for something simple and subtle, or glamorous and bold – champagne is the color to go for, and tea length is the style! They work well together and will make a memorable outfit for any Mother of the Bride.

What did your mom wear to your wedding? Or what is she planning to wear? I would love to hear any suggestions, so please feel free to leave them in the comments below.

The most important thing to remember is: find something comfortable! You may want to wear something memorable, but don’t sacrifice comfort for glam – you’ll be wearing this dress all day! And wear a color/design that matches your personality. If champagne isn’t for you, there really is no etiquette that deems you have to wear an outfit that color.