Wedding Planning Archives - Page 2 of 4

When Does The Ring Bearer Walk Down The Aisle?: A Ring Bearer’s Guide

Today, we’re going to be answering the question: when does the ring bearer walk down the aisle? And also taking a look at everything you need to know about choosing a ring bearer for your special day and their role within the ceremony. Let’s take a closer look at all things ring bearers!

What Is A Ring Bearer?

You may already know what a ring bearer is, but if you’re unfamiliar, a ring bearer has a very important job! It’s a ring bearer’s responsibility to carry the rings down the aisle during the ceremony.

What Does The Ring Bearer Do?

As we’ve just seen, the ring bearer is responsible for walking the rings down the aisle. This is usually with the the bridal party procession. When they reach the end of the aisle, they usually give the rings to the best man. Or depending on their age, they can keep the rings themselves until the happy couple is in need of them.

Who Is The Ring Bearer?

The ring bearer is usually a child that is important to the couple. It can one of your own children, a friend’s child, or someone like a niece or nephew. The ring bearer can be a boy or girl – and in all honesty, the ring bearer doesn’t have to be a child! If you’re looking to give someone important in your life a role in your wedding, why not ring bearer? While traditionally it’s a child, it can be anyone! From aunts, uncles to grandparents.

When Does The Ring Bearer Walk Down The Aisle?

There’s a traditional order for the wedding procession. Usually, the bridesmaids and maid/matron of honor walk down the aisle first (alone or with the best man), followed by the ring bearer and then the flower girls. After this procession, the bride is ready to make her entrance.

Although it’s tradition for the ring bearer to make their entrance after the bridesmaids, they can make their entrance before, after – or even with the bride! Let’s be honest, it’s your wedding and the order of your wedding party can be whatever you choose.

Who Does The Ring Bearer Give The Rings To?

More often than not, when the ring bearer reaches the end of the aisle, they hand over the rings (usually on a pillow or in a box) to the best man. The best man will then look after the rings throughout the ceremony, and present them when necessary. However, if your ring bearer is older, you may want your ring bearer to present the rings to you – and that is completely okay!

Where Does The Ring Bearer Stand?

If you’re worried about their little legs getting tired, you don’t have to be! Ring bearers do not need to stand throughout the ceremony. Once they have delivered the rings to the best man, they usually sit with their family or a family friend. It’s highly unlikely that a toddler or small child would be able to stand still for that long! You can provide a seat for them at the front of the ceremony if you want them to have the best view of your marriage.

How Old Are Ring Bearers?

It’s common for ring bearers to be around the same age as flower girls. The average age of a ring bearer is around three to eight years of age. Although this is tradition, you can choose a ring bearer of any age. It’s understandable that you may not want such an important role to be entrusted to someone so small, so to save stress – it may actually be better to have a slightly older ring bearer!

In more recent years, it’s become popular to have children much younger than three take on the role of ring bearer. Although they won’t really have an idea of what’s going on, they do look super cute – and it makes for some adorable photos. However, if you choose this option, be sure to have someone available to accompany them down the aisle. And be prepared for tantrums, screaming, and crying – nothing is as unpredictable as a child!

What Does The Ring Bearer Wear?

There really aren’t any strict guidelines as to what the ring bearer wears. It’s down to the couple and ring bearer (or the ring bearer’s parents). You may want them to be wearing similar colors to the bridal party, as they will be joining in with the procession – but that’s just a recommendation, and entirely your choice.

You do not need to pay for the ring bearer’s outfit. However, if you want them to wear a particular outfit, it’s seen as polite to at least offer a monetary contribution towards it. Or you may like to provide an accessory for the outfit like suspenders or a flower crown.

What Can The Ring Bearer Carry The Rings On?

You can choose for the rings to be carried down on anything! Most couples opt for a ring pillow or small box. However, if you’re looking for a way to make the job fun – how about this Ring Security Set? It’s a lockable personalized briefcase, which comes with the case, a badge, sunglasses and an earpiece. At £60, it’s definitely pricey, but it’ll definitely make that special little one in your life feel super important!

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped to answer the question: when does the ring bearer walk down the aisle? If you’re looking for a short answer: it’s whenever you want! But if you like to follow as close to traditional as possible, it’s best to have them after the bridesmaids and just before the flower girls. If you have no bridesmaids or flower girls, the ring bearer can even walk in with the bride!

Did you have a ring bearer at your wedding, or do you plan to? When did they walk down the aisle? Please feel free to let me know any answers in the comments below.

Average Age Of A Ring Bearer: Are They Too Old?

Today, we’re going to be looking at the average age of a ring bearer and finding out if you can ever choose someone that’s too old for the job. But first, let’s take a look at what a ring bearer is – and even check out some tips to make the ceremony go as smoothly as possible for you and your ring bearer.

What Is A Ring Bearer?

A ring bearer has a very important job. Some might say, one of the most important jobs of the day! A ring bearer’s sole responsibility is to carry the wedding rings down the aisle; usually, in procession with the bridal party. Once at the end of the aisle, the ring bearer usually hands the rings over to the best man.

Who Is The Ring Bearer?

The ring bearer is often someone important to you as a couple. Whether it be one of your own children or a niece/nephew, it will be someone close to the family. You should choose someone who’s reasonably responsible (if they’re of that age), and if they can’t walk down alone, have someone like the Mother of the Bride/Groom walk with them/carry them.

The ring bearer can be a boy or a girl – the choice is entirely yours.

How Old Are Ring Bearers?

Ring bearers are often seen as around the same age as flower girls. The average age of a ring bearer is around three to eight years of age. Some couples do prefer to follow tradition, but there’s really nothing stopping you from choosing a ring bearer of any age. As it’s such an important role, you may not want someone of that age entrusted with the rings, so go with whatever you feel comfortable with.

However, it’s becoming increasingly popular for children younger than three to take on the role of ring bearer. However, they’ll usually be accompanied by an adult. Let’s be honest, the younger the child, the cuter they look holding the rings. Although, it’s important to keep in mind, that the younger the child, the more prone they are to things like tantrums and crying. If you feel this is something that would hinder your wedding, it’s best to opt for a slightly older ring bearer.

How Old Is Too Old For A Ring Bearer?

You may be wondering if someone can be too old to be a ring bearer. There are many people that will say yes, but I’m here to tell you – you can never be too old to be a ring bearer! Some couples even choose to have their grandparents as ring bearers. If you’re having an adults-only ceremony, or you simply don’t want a child to fulfill the role, feel free to choose anyone!

It can be an aunt, an uncle – or even grandparents. It’s a great way to get someone special to you involved that doesn’t already have a role within the wedding. You can even have a pet carry the rings down the aisle for you – although I’m not sure all pets would be that cooperative!

The most important thing to remember is – there are no age limits for any role within a wedding. If you want to give someone a title for your special day, go for it. I’m sure they’ll be just as excited as you are.

Tips For A Ring Bearer

If you do opt for a young ring bearer, there are a few tips you can try to help the wedding go as smoothly as possible. Hey, we all know how unpredictable children can be! Here are a few points to consider before the big day:

Use a pillow that you can tie the rings to so that they’ll be as safe as possible – particularly if you’re worried they may fall off
Take your ring bearer for a visit to the venue before the ceremony. Show them what they’ll be doing and bring along props so they can practice. Not only will it be fun for them, but they’ll also feel more confident on the day
Sometimes the ring bearer will stand for the ceremony and hand the rings over when needed. If the child is particularly young, give them a seat with their family/friend and have them hand the rings to the best man
Use fake rings. If the thought of a toddler carrying your wedding rings down the aisle is causing you stress (understandable), buy fake rings for the ring bearer to hold. And keep the real rings with the best man!
If the ring bearer is slightly older, why not opt for a heart-shaped box or something a little more unique? There are some amazing original ideas on Etsy for ring-bearing boxes. It’s a great way to keep them protected too, throughout the ceremony.

What Does The Ring Bearer Wear?

You may be wondering what the ring bearer usually wears. If you’re not the parents of the ring bearer, it may be best to discuss the options with them. They usually wear the color of the bridal party, as they are part of the wedding party, after all!

You’re under no obligation to pay for the ring bearer outfit yourself, but if you’re being very particular with the outfit, it may be a nice gift. Or you may gift them an accessory to wear on your wedding days, such as a flower crown or corsage.

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you to become more familiar with the average age of a ring bearer. Although there’s an average age, there really is no age limit for your ring bearer. Whether they’re 0 or 100, it’s entirely your choice and they can be as traditional or modern as you’d like.

Did you have a ring bearer at your wedding? Do you think there’s an age limit on when you should be a ring bearer? If so, please feel free to leave any answers in the comments below.

How To Plan A Destination Wedding On A Small Budget: A Guide

Today, we’re going to look at how to plan a destination wedding on a small budget. Destination weddings have become increasingly popular in recent years. And whether you have an expensive wedding or a wedding on a strict budget – it’s still possible to have the destination wedding of your dreams. Let’s take a look at how to make the most of your budget when planning a destination wedding.

Why Have A Destination Wedding?

Make no mistake, it’s definitely more difficult to plan a destination wedding than a traditional wedding. Usually, everything is within a reachable distance, and it doesn’t take the amount of planning that a destination wedding requires. However, a destination wedding seems more romantic and not just a getaway for your guests, but for you too. Especially if it’s a place that’s special to you both as a couple.

Tips and Tricks To Utilize Your Wedding Budget

There are many ways to make the most out of whatever budget you have, so let’s take a closer look at our top tips and ideas for a destination wedding on a budget.

Decide on a Budget

The budget is, without doubt, the most important aspect of your wedding planning – and the first thing you should decide on. Without a budget price, it’s impossible to plan a wedding. Make a rough estimate of what you’re willing to spend on each section of your wedding (food, drinks, venue, dress, etc.) and go from there.

Choose a Location

A destination wedding cost will all depend on where you choose to get married. Destinations such as the Caribbean and Mexico will be more expensive as they’re sought-after locations. However, for cheap destination weddings, try looking for somewhere closer to home – or somewhere that isn’t typically known for being a wedding hotspot.

Plan Ahead with Plenty of Time

The more time you have to plan, the easier the process will be. And usually, the more in advance you book, the cheaper the deals you can obtain. Be sure to shop around and compare prices at different venues to ensure you’re getting the most from your budget. It’s much easier to make changes when things are already booked, so if you want to change anything nearer the time, you can.

Cut Vendors You Don’t Need

This may seem like a ruthless one, but it is an important one. Do you need a photographer and a videographer? Do you need a 3-course sit-down meal? The answers will be different for every couple, so choose what are the most important aspects of your day, and work from there. It’ll be easier to cut out certain vendors than you may think! And truly, you only need you and your partner to make your wedding day magical.

Choose a Date Wisely

If you’re traveling during the holiday season or peak wedding season, you’ll definitely be paying more – so try to book in quieter months. Or maybe even opt for a week-day wedding, this will cut the price dramatically, rather than having your wedding at the weekend.

Check for Packages

Whether this is travel packages for you and your guests, hotel packages for your wedding party, or wedding packages in general – make sure you check for them! Package deals are always the best value for money, and most companies will offer them. Be sure to enquire as you may be missing out on a great deal that could save you thousands!

Think About Décor

Another way to be ruthless is with décor. Do you need all those flowers? Do you need oversized neon letters? Try to be simplistic with your decorations. They can become really expensive, very quickly. So focus on the most important decorations that you’d like, and go from there.

Keep the Guest List Small

This is a simple one, but the more guests – the higher the price. So if you try to limit your guest list as much as possible, it will help to reduce the venue and catering costs massively. Try to invite your nearest and dearest, and have a second celebration closer to home once you’re back. That way, you get the best of both worlds!

Consider Rate Variations

Depending on where you are in the world, and the time of year of your wedding will mean a real variation in prices. There are a few things to keep in mind, such as:

Big cities will be more expensive than towns or villages, so stay away from them if you can
During the week will always be cheaper than Friday, Saturday or Sunday
Always choose off peak seasons if you can
If the flowers you’re looking for aren’t in season, be prepared to pay significantly more than you usually would
Bar rates differ in every venue, so be sure to shop around
Photographers can be extremely expensive, so this is another aspect to be sure to shop around for

Buy in Bulk

The more of anything you buy, the cheaper it will be. Whether it’s plane tickets, hotel rooms, catering, cutlery – whatever you can buy in bulk, go for it! It’ll work out much better value in the long run.

If you’re looking for more tips to save on décor, food and drinks, outfits, etc., be sure to visit wedmegood, as they have some amazing advice for budget weddings!

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you to become more familiar with how to plan a destination wedding on a small budget. It’s definitely possible, so try not to get too disheartened if you don’t find what you’re looking for instantly. Shop around, as making the most of your money and finding cheaper alternatives can take time.

Did you have a destination wedding on a small budget? How did you navigate it? If you have any tips or tricks, please feel free to share them below. You may be helping out future couples with their destination wedding!

Wedding Halls Decorations: Ideas To Transform Your Venue

Today, we’re going to be looking at how to transform your venue using wedding halls decorations. There are so many ways you can use decorations to make your wedding banquet hall look beautiful – no matter what the size, or the budget you have. Here are some tips and tricks to make your wedding venue a show-stopping one. Let’s take a closer look at how you can do it.

Choosing Your Wedding Venue

Choosing your dream wedding venue is one of the hardest decisions you’ll make, in terms of your wedding. You want it to reflect the style of yourselves as a couple, be the right size for the number of people you’re looking to invite, and most importantly – keep it within budget! It’s important to set a budget for everything before you look around, as it’s very easy to get lost in the magic and spend over budget quickly.

Wedding Decoration Ideas

A banquet for a wedding is becoming increasingly popular and is usually already striking before you add any of your own flairs. But how can you highlight and accentuate a banquet hall, and make it your own? We’ll be covering it all in this article.

Fairytale Chandeliers/Lights

Usually, the first thing people do when walking into a hall is lookup. So decorating your venue with chandeliers or fairy lights that flicker and give off a subtle, golden glow, will make it feel utterly magical. And completely unforgettable.

Blossom Trees

If you’re looking for a romantic, sweet vibe – blossom trees are the way forward. Usually, halls have high ceilings and lots of space to spare, so it’s important to fill that space up. What better way than with gorgeous blossom trees? They’ll not only take your guests’ breath away, but they’ll also make your venue smell beautiful too!

Draped Ceilings

It’s a known fact that drapes make everything look bigger! Not only do they look classy and elegant, but they’ll be making your venue look even grander than it already is. It’s a win-win!

Hanging Floral Arrangements

As we mentioned earlier, looking up is usually your go-to entering a hall, so what better way to wow your guests than having flower arrangements hanging above the dining tables. It will make your guests feel like they’re entering an enchanted forest…and will make for gorgeous photo opportunities.

Choose Light

While you may be set on a darker color scheme for your wedding, opting for light colors is definitely something we recommend. It makes everything look brighter, bigger, and feels much less restricting. Lighter colors often make things look bigger too – which is great if you’re getting married in a hall. It doesn’t have to be white, it can be any pastel or light color!

Tall Centerpieces

Most tables at a wedding will have a centerpiece. And if accentuating the height of your venue is what you’re looking for – tall centerpieces are a great way to do this. The bigger and grander, the better (in my opinion!).

Bunting

This is such a basic idea – but it’s actually one of the best. Bunting is great for high venues and for showcasing how fabulous your venue is. The best part about bunting is that it’s usually very cost-effective, and can be reused afterward! Bunting can really make a color scheme pop.

Oversized Letters

This decoration can work almost anywhere, but it works particularly well in a hall. They come in a range of styles, colors, different bulbs, and different fonts – so you’ll definitely be able to find some that fit with the color scheme and vibe of your wedding. These are great for taking some memorable photos in front of.

Flower Walls

If you have a large hall, this may be quite expensive – but it will absolutely wow your guests! Feature flower walls look devastatingly beautiful, especially behind the top table. It highlights the happy couple, and will really make them feel the center of attention. It doesn’t have to be just flowers, it can be stems, greenery, vines – all of those will help to keep the cost down.

Paper Lanterns

I think you get it by now – hanging something from the ceiling is a great idea! If bunting or lights aren’t your things, another cheap alternative is paper lanterns. They look utterly dreamy and will give your wedding a real fairytale feel – anyone else loves Tanged?! (Tangled was actually the main theme of my own wedding!)

Interactive Desserts

These are becoming increasingly popular and are perfect if you’re getting married in a hall! You’ll likely have plenty of space, and it’s a lot of fun for the guests. So why not have a donut wall? You can usually rent a donut wall for a reasonable price and stock up on budget-friendly donuts the day before the wedding!

Needing More Inspiration?

If you’re still looking for more ideas, websites like Pinterest are a great way to ignite the inspiration flame. This Banquet Hall Pinterest board from Chandra Martin is beautiful, and you’ll see how beautiful some of our ideas look – as well as some new ones too!

Conclusion

I hope this article has given you lots of ideas for wedding halls decorations and helped you to see how easy it is to make your venue a show-stopping one. Whether your budget is strict and small, or unlimited and extravagant, it’s easy to make your venue look as beautiful as possible – especially if it’s already somewhere grand, like a hall.

However you decide to decorate, make sure the decorations reflect you and your partner – and go as crazy, or as tame as you feel comfortable with.

Did you have your wedding in a hall? What decorations did you opt for? Please feel free to leave any answers in the comments below, especially if you have any new ideas that we can add on. You may be helping out future brides and grooms with their own wedding decorating!

Wedding After Courthouse Marriage: What You Need To Know

Today, we’re going to be looking at having a wedding after courthouse marriage, and everything you need to know about courthouse marriages and the celebrations you can have after. One thing is for certain, weddings are becoming more and more expensive. A courthouse marriage is a great way to be married as soon as possible but to save the celebrations for later. There’s a range of reasons why you may want to do this (and we’ll be looking at those later too!). So let’s take a closer look at courthouse weddings.

What Is A Courthouse Wedding?

A courthouse wedding, put simply, is a marriage in a courthouse. Courthouse weddings go by a few names that you may be more familiar with, including civil weddings or civil ceremonies. It’s nonreligious but is a legal ceremony of marriage which is overseen by a government official.

Courthouse Wedding Requirements

It’s not as simple as rocking up to your local courthouse and getting married. Depending on where you are, there will be different rules and regulations for every state (or country). Generally, you’ll need the same information and requirements as a religious wedding. You’ll need ID (of course). And many states require you to obtain a marriage license (which is usually obtainable for a fee). And some states also require a witness or two at the ceremony. It’s important to check out the rules and regulations of where you are before you make any commitments.

How Much Is A Marriage License Fee?

It all depends on where you are in the world. However, in the United States, it can be anywhere from $20-$120. It’s safe to say, that this is the cheapest and easiest way to get married! It’s also a great way to keep the ceremony intimate, but at a far more reasonable price.

Why Would You Want To Get Legally Married Before The Big Day?

Getting legally married before the wedding is far more common than you may think! Especially in the last few years, with the global pandemic affecting the wedding industry so massively. Having a marriage may be the most important aspect of the wedding to you, so many couples are opting to get legally married and worry about the celebrations at a more fitting time.

Here are some reasons some couples opt to have a courthouse wedding and celebrate their wedding later.

Postponing Weddings

In light of recent events, some couples are having to reschedule their wedding for the second, third, fourth time (my sister being one of those people!). Some couples simply want to be married and aren’t happy to wait any longer to call themselves Mr. and Mrs., Mr. and Mr. or Mrs. and Mrs. This is completely understandable. So many couples have chosen a small, intimate courthouse wedding and will focus on the celebrations once the pandemic is over.

Destination Weddings

As wonderful as destination weddings are, you’ll need to apply for a marriage license in your hometown and have your legal ceremony before you depart for your destination wedding. Every state (and country) has a different set of rules, so be sure you’re following the right procedures and requirements before jetting off for your destination wedding.

Anxiety Relieving

There’s such a pressure to have “the perfect day” on your wedding day, and sometimes that’s not always possible. The anxiety I felt on my wedding day was debilitating and it really ruined the lead-up for me as I was so frightened to be the center of attention in front of so many people. Having a small wedding in a courthouse will definitely relieve this pressure and enable you to enjoy the ceremony more if you suffer from anxiety…and then focus on the celebrations after!

Intimate

It’s definitely a more intimate affair. Whether it’s just you and your partner, or a small gathering of friends and family to witness, having a courthouse wedding really gives you and your partner the chance to focus on each other. There’s less pressure if you mess up, stutter or cry. And it won’t feel anywhere near as overwhelming. The vow exchange will be intimate and memorable for you both.

More Time To Save

This is one of the most common reasons! Your wedding day will be expensive – there’s no doubt about it! So some couples opt to have the ceremony as quickly as possible in a courthouse; which really doesn’t cost much at all. And then save up for a bigger day with bigger celebrations in the future. There’s no unspoken rule that your ceremony and reception need to be on the same day – so have them separate and enjoy two special days!

How To Make It Special

It may feel as though your courthouse wedding can’t be special, especially if it’s a choice that has been thrust upon you because of the pandemic – but that is absolutely not the case! You can still have a perfect day, no matter how small your wedding is. Here are a few tips from Brides.com on how to make your courthouse wedding special.

Invite your nearest and dearest. Whether that’s 2 people, or 10 – it’s not the quantity of people at your wedding that matters.
Book a Photographer. You want some photos to remember your special day for and as there won’t be many guests to take snapshots, hiring a photographer is the best thing to do.
Plan a Small Celebration After. Whether that’s a drink in the local bar or a meal at your favorite restaurant – go for it!
Look Forward to the Traditional Wedding in the Near Future!

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you to become more familiar with having a wedding after courthouse marriage – and everything you need to know, before and after. Whenever you have your wedding and however you have your wedding, the most important thing is that you’ve chosen to share the rest of your life with that special someone.

How To Make A Map For Wedding Invitations

Today, we’re going to be looking at how to make a map for wedding invitations. Usually, when sending out invitations, there will be a map insert inside to help guests locate the venue, and also highlight any hotels or accommodation nearby to give guests an idea of where they can stay. Maps for wedding invitations are extremely popular and we highly recommend you include one with your invitations.

It can be as basic or extravagant as possible. We’ll be covering it all in this article.

DIY Wedding Map

DIY wedding map doesn’t have to mean something difficult – it just means something you do yourself, either by hand or on a computer. A map for wedding invitation insert is one of the easiest things you can do yourself for your wedding, and it can give the invitations a real personal touch. Let’s take a look at your options.

Written Directions

If you’re not great with technology, you can be as traditional as you’d like with your directions! Something as simple as typing up or writing directions by hand is perfectly okay to do.

For example,

“*Your Wedding Venue*

Head north on 1st St. toward Tiffany St.
Turn left at Tiffany St.
Turn right at Napa Rd.

etc. And just add the addresses for the wedding on the invitation. It really can be something as simple as that. Then you can choose to print it yourself (if typing) or photocopy copies if you’ve chosen to write the directions by hand. And then pop the inserts into your invitations – and your maps are good to go. This is no doubt one of the quickest ways to do it – but also the least creative.

Copy A Google Map Image

Another simple way (but requires some basic technological skills) is copying a google map image. If you’re familiar with Google maps and are good on a computer – copying a map image couldn’t be simpler. Follow these simple steps to find out how:

Find the address on Google Maps and get an image of the location you require on your screen
Zoom in or out, depending on the level of detail you need on your map
On your computer, locate the “snipping tool” (this may be different depending on your computer)
Select “New Snip”
Drag the box around the area you want to copy. An image will pop up of the area you have selected
From the file menu, save the image as a JPEG
Your insert is ready to print and add to your invitation!

Trace A Map

Another idea is to trace the map. Whether you have a traditional map book or you print off an image from Google maps, you can trace the map yourself and add your own cute designs to the map. Use markers to highlight key places and add your own drawings. This feels really personal and is a lovely touch to your wedding invitations.

You can then scan or photocopy your map as needed. This tutorial from eHow is great if you’re a visual learner and want to trace your own map.

Check Your Wedding Venues Website

This may seem like a basic idea, but it’s proven to be successful many times! Many wedding venues will have a “locate us” or “how to get here” section on their website. And some even have a list of local hotels. It’s definitely worth checking your venue’s website, as it could be something as simple as a copy and paste from their website. That will save you a lot of time and searching!

Freehand

If you’re creative with your hands, but not so much on the computer – why not draw your own map? This idea is very similar to tracing, but there’s a lot more freedom involved and everything is done freehand. It can be illustrated as and how you’d like. Freehand maps are a perfect way to really personalize your wedding map and add your unique style to your wedding invitations. But if like me, you’re terrible at drawing – this may not be the best option!

Once you’re happy with the design, scan and save it as a JPEG or simply photocopy and include it as an insert.

Hire A Designer

This may seem like a cheat way out of doing it yourself, but if you aren’t creative at all, or simply do not have the time – hiring a designer may be the best option for you. And there’s no shame in that! You may just want it to be as perfect as possible. Some invitation makers do wedding map inserts too, so it may be worth asking yours before you hire a wedding map designer.

But be prepared, this will not be cheap and may take an unnecessary chunk out of your budget, so only opt for this option if you have to.

Marketplace sites such as Etsy and eBay have a great selection of designers to choose from. Many of which you can order samples from to determine whether you’re happy with it before you commit. Online stores such as Mustard and Gray LTD are a great starting point if you’re unlikely to design your own.

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you become more familiar with how to make a map for wedding invitations. Whichever way you choose, it really doesn’t matter! As long as your guests know where they’re going, that’s the most important thing. And if all else fails, as long as they have the address for the venue – most people have satnavs or Google Maps on their phones nowadays!

Did you make your own map for your wedding invitations? How did you do it? Was it one of the ways listed above? Please let me know any answers or suggestions in the comments below. You may be helping out future brides and grooms with their own wedding maps! Sharing is caring.

Wedding RSVP Wording For Limited Guests (Polite Ways!)

Today, we’re going to be looking at wedding RSVP wording for limited guests, and polite ways to do this when addressing your wedding invitations. For whatever reason you decide that you want a limited number of guests – you’ll still likely have people asking if they can bring someone with them. However, there are polite ways to address this on the invites to avoid any awkward conversations! It may feel uncomfortable, but remember that it’s your wedding and your decision!

Why Have A Smaller Guest Count?

There’s a range of reasons why you may want a smaller wedding. Here are some of the most common reasons.

Budget. Allowing guests to bring a plus one of their child(ren) can add a hefty sum to the bill of your wedding, so usually monetary restrictions are the main reason for a smaller wedding.
Seating/Venue Size. The chosen venue may simply not have the space for guests to bring plus ones, or child(ren). Especially weddings that are particularly intimate and don’t have much seating.
No Children. Lots of couples choose to have no children at their wedding. It gives parents a chance to relax and makes for a more peaceful wedding day.
Personal Choice. Some couples just want an intimate wedding. Although I had a bigger reception, my ceremony was very small, intimate and I only had my nearest and dearest. This was my personal choice, and it worked out perfectly for me.

Invitation Wording For No Extra Guests

Wedding invitation wording can be a minefield for many reasons, but we’re here to make it as easy as possible. There may feel like no polite way to say no to extra guests – but there is!

Here are a few generic ways to point out that there are no extra guests:

We have reserved (number) seats for your presence. And leave a space below for the wedding guest to respond as to how many of those spaces will be needed. The problem with this can be that guests may think it’s an open invitation to add guests – so be sure to add something like this at the end of the invite:

Our wedding will be an intimate one and we cannot accommodate guests not included in this invitation.
We politely request only those included in the invitation can be accommodated. You will be seated with people you know and we hope to have a bigger celebration after the wedding.
Our strict budget means that we can not accommodate extra guests at our wedding, but you will be seated with other guests you know and love.
The size of our venue means that we have to keep guests to a minimum, so we are only able to accommodate guests that are named on this invite.
We would love to accommodate all of your friends and family, but we would like a small, intimate ceremony. We hope to have a bigger celebration in the future.

No Children

If you’re planning to have a child-free wedding, and have parents in attendance that will expect their children to be invited too, here’s a few ways to address this on the invite. It’s best to be upbeat and positive, rather than focusing on the point that children are not permitted. For example:

“We know how much you love being a parent, but we thought you might like the night off to enjoy our wedding. Our special day will be adults only so they’ll be no need to worry about little eyes and little ears.”

Limited Number Of Children

You may want to limit the children at your wedding and be unsure on wording. For example, you may have flower girls and page boys but request that no other children are present at your wedding. Here are a few polite ways to inform guests of this:

Due to guest restrictions, we can only accommodate the children of immediate family on our wedding day. We hope to have a celebration after the wedding – with all the children!
Due to the size of our venue, the only children we are able to accommodate are those in the wedding party. We hope you understand.
Beyond our flower girls and page boys, we are unable to accommodate any other children on our special day.

When you are limiting children or having a child-free wedding, it’s important to give guests as much notice as possible to find childcare – so be sure to send invites out with plenty of time to spare. Some couples even arrange childcare for their guests if they’re hosting an adults-only wedding – but that will take off a large chunk of your budget!

Personalize The Invitations

If you’re still concerned, another foolproof way to ensure there are no extra guests is to personalize the invites with each named guest. Usually, there’s a blank space for the guests’ names but you can fill out the space with only the guests you would like to invite. If some guests are permitted a plus one, you can write “& Guest” to make it abundantly clear.

If you’re searching for the perfect wedding stationery for your invites, The Wedding Blogger has a great Wedding Stationery post which will make designing your invites (and the wording) as easy as possible.

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped with wedding RSVP wording for limited guests. It can feel uncomfortable but please remember that it’s your wedding and you’re entitled to keep it to the size that you want. For my own ceremony, only 30 guests were in attendance. But the evening was a much bigger celebration! I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.

Did you decide on a more intimate ceremony? Or a child-free wedding? If so, how did you word your invitations? Please feel free to leave any answers in the comments below. You may be helping out future brides and grooms with their own wedding invitation wording. Sharing is caring!

Traveler’s Joy vs Honeyfund: Best Honeymoon Registry Websites

Today, we’re going to be comparing Traveler’s Joy vs Honeyfund and looking at Traveler’s Joy and Honeyfund alternatives. Traditional registries were great for couples just starting out decades ago. But most of us having weddings now are already living together and don’t need much for our homes. In recent years, it’s become increasingly popular to ask wedding guests to help with honeymoon costs.

It’s worth noting that you may still want to make a small list of traditional gifts, as some guests will prefer to buy a physical gift. However, the choice is entirely yours, and how comfortable you feel asking for monetary help.

So you’ve decided to ask for help towards your honeymoon – which sites should you use? Let’s compare some of the best choices available.

What Is A Honeymoon Registry?

A honeymoon registry is usually online and is set up to offer guests of the wedding a chance to help financially with the happy couple’s honeymoon. This is usually in place of a traditional gift registry. Although, often couples will set up a small gift list for any guests who prefer physical gifts.

Honeymoon Registry Choices

Let’s compare some of the key features from some of the most popular choices on offer for honeymoon registry websites.

Traveler’s Joy

Traveler’s Joy was of the first honeymoon registry websites to appear and they’ve been around since 2004. They’re currently one of the most popular choices in the US! It’s modern and easy to use, so it isn’t hard to see why it’s one of the more preferable choices on offer.

While the design choices are quite limited on Traveler’s Joy, it’s free to set up your account. All gift redemptions in the US are free, but using credit will incur a 2.95% additional fee. It’s simple to use, mobile-friendly and you’ll be able to make your contribution to any honeymoon in no time at all.

It’s important to note that contributions over $1000 will need to be verified by Traveler’s Joy.

You can find out more about Traveler’s Joy and find answers to any burning questions you may have here.

Honeyfund

Launching in 2003, Honeyfund is another honeymoon registry website that has been around for a while! Honeyfund is a little more unique than most other registry websites because it’s not just for weddings. You can even contribute towards someone’s home, charities, or travel.

You can choose a free or paid-for account. When paying for an account, you’re paying for the design and to add photos, etc. It’s a one-off payment of $39.99. Depending on country and payment method, fees range from 2.8% – 3.95% plus $0.30. Payment options available for guests are WePay and PayPal.

One of the perks of Honeyfund is that there is live chat available. This means that if you have any queries or issues to raise – it’s easy to get sorted into time at all.

Hitchd

One of the newer honeymoon registry websites is Hitchd. It’s quickly becoming a popular choice for newly married couples for a few reasons. The main reason being – there is just a one-time fee, rather than guests (or the couple) having to take a hit from every contribution.

It’s super affordable and there’s a range of options to choose from including:

£69 – this enables 25 individual contributions
£99 – this enables 50 individual contributions
£169 – this enables unlimited contributions

They also offer a free trial so you can explore the website before making a commitment. It’s available in a staggering 25 countries, so wherever you are in the world, it’s easy to set up your honeymoon fund.

Hitchd is also becoming increasingly popular because it accepts a range of payments including, PayPal, Venmo, CashApp, Bank Transfer, and Credit/Debit Cards. Not only that, but it has over 1 million photos to use to make your website as beautiful and aesthetically pleasing as possible.

Zola

Another popular choice is Zola. Zola is another website that has been around for a while, and one you may be familiar with. Zola enables the couple themselves to pay for the processing fees, rather than the guests – which is a great option if you’re the one contributing to the honeymoon.

The processing fee is 2.5% with no hidden fees, which is reasonably low compared to some of the other options we’ve taken a look at today.

However, this website isn’t one of the most mobile-friendly options. Plus, as it’s predominantly a physical gift registry, it’s easy to veer away from the task at hand. There are constant ads for invites, checklists, etc. (which are other services they offer), so it can become a little confusing.

Other Honeymoon Registry Websites

The options we’ve seen today are just a few of what’s on offer. Some other popular choices include Blueprint, Honeymoon Wishes, Wanderable, and Thankful Registry. Be sure to shop around before making any final decisions, as what works for one couple may not work for you.

Or you may want to go old school and simply accept cash. This is what I did for my honeymoon fund and I found it the easiest way – however, it probably wasn’t the safest! But it all depends on the size and vibe of your wedding; always do what is best for you.

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you to see the differences between Traveler’s Joy vs Honeyfund and a range of other options you may like to choose too. Ultimately, they all do the same job and if you’re looking for my personal recommendation, I would now opt for Hitchd. But the choice is entirely up to you and what your needs are!

Did you use a honeymoon registry website for your wedding? Or do you plan to? Let me know which company you chose and what your experiences have been like. Whether positive or negative, I would love to hear them! So please feel free to leave any answers in the comments below. You may be helping out future couples with their own wedding.

Cost Of Wedding Cupcakes For 100 Guests: How Much?

Today, we’re going to be looking at the cost of wedding cupcakes for 100 guests. Cupcakes are becoming increasingly popular at weddings. Whether you’re having cupcakes as a replacement for a wedding cake, or you’re serving cupcakes in the evening as an extra dessert – they’re a great dessert.

Most people like cupcakes and ordering a few different flavors is the perfect way to cater to as many guests as possible. But how many do you need? How much should you be setting aside from your budget? Let’s take a look.

Wedding Cupcakes Price – How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of cupcakes entirely depends on the style and flavor of your cupcakes of choice. On average, if you’re looking at mini cupcakes, it will be around $1-$2 per cupcake. And for standard-size cupcakes, it can be anywhere between $2-$4 per cupcake.

If you opt for a standard vanilla cupcake with frosting and no decoration, you’ll be looking at the lower end. However, if you’re looking for a vegan red velvet cupcake with edible glitter and decoration – of course, it’s going to cost more.

It’s important to note that when ordering in bulk, some bakeries will offer a discount if you order over a certain amount. That discount can range anywhere from 5% too much higher – so it’s definitely worth asking. The price will also depend on the bakery you order from. If it’s a well-established bakery, expect to pay more.

TOP TIP: When ordering your cupcakes from a bakery, try to avoid telling them it’s for a wedding. Once you mention the word “wedding”, the price tag is often much higher than if you tell them you’re ordering for another occasion, like a birthday.

How Many Cupcakes For A Wedding?

Again, the answer to this all depends on how many guests you’re having. And you’ll also need to take into account if you’re having any other desserts, how many flavors you’re having, and what time of day you’re choosing to serve them. All of these factors will affect how many cupcakes you will need.

On average, it’s predicted that you’ll need 1.5 standard-size cupcakes per guest or 3 mini cupcakes per guest. However, if your budget simply can not allow for that, one cupcake per guest (plus a few spares) and 2 mini cupcakes per guest are certainly doable. Just don’t expect any leftovers at the end of the night!

Calculate This has an amazing Cupcake Calculator, which enables you to enter how many guests you’re having, how many cupcake flavors, and if you’re having any other desserts. It then predicts a figure based on your answers. For example, 1 flavor, for 100 guests, with no other desserts – they predict you’ll need 150 standard size cupcakes. However, if you’re having more than 1 flavor, for 100 guests, with no other desserts – they predict you’ll need 200 standard-size cupcakes.

Do I Need More Than One Flavor?

It’s advised that you have more than one flavor, in fact – the general advice is to have 3! But it’s a personal choice and if you only want to have one flavor, that’s also okay.

An important note to bear in mind is dietary restrictions. It may be best to have a gluten-free/vegan cupcake option available if you have any guests with those restrictions. I’m gluten-free myself and I like to enjoy cupcakes too!

TOP TIP: If you can not afford more than one flavor, have a few different colors of frosting to make it appear as though the cupcakes aren’t the same.

How Far In Advance Shall I Book My Cupcakes?

I can not stress enough that bakeries fill up early! Especially for items like cupcakes. And with the volume you’ll likely be ordering, the more notice you can give, the better. It’s recommended that you start your research at least 6 months prior to the wedding and secure them with a deposit or contract with at least 4 months to go. However, if you’re able to lock in your vendor earlier, go for it! Most couples also like to have a tasting session before they make any final decisions, which most bakeries should offer.

How Far In Advance Can You Make Cupcakes?

If you’re making your own cupcakes, you won’t have the worry of having to book! And the wedding cupcake pricing will definitely be much lower if you’re making it themselves. However, you will still need to use the cupcake calculator to ensure you’re making enough.

Betty Crocker has a great timeline if you’re making your own wedding cupcakes! Her countdown looks similar to this:

3 Months Prior. Start testing recipes. Practice at least a few times and taste the results. Once you’re happy with the recipe, make sure you test how they taste after being frozen, and then thawed.
1 Week Prior. Bake the cupcakes. Cool, wrap, and place them in the freezer, ready for the big day.
2 Days Prior. Take them out of the freezer and leave them to thaw.
1 Day Prior. Frost and decorate in any way you choose.
The Big Day! Transport, display and serve to your guests.

You’re probably going to need some help with every step of the way if you’re making 100 plus cupcakes, so don’t be afraid to ask for support from your family and friends!

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped with the cost of wedding cupcakes for 100 guests and answered any other questions you may have about wedding cupcakes and their pricing. If you’re already having a wedding cake or other desserts, it’s not expected to have wedding cupcakes at all, so there is no pressure to have them – but they do make a tasty treat; especially in the evening.

Did you have cupcakes at your wedding? Or do you plan to? If you’re happy to share prices, please let me know in the comments below. You may be helping out future brides and grooms with their own cupcakes. Sharing is caring!

Catholic Church Wedding Costs: How Much?

Today we’re going to be looking at Catholic Church wedding costs and how much a church wedding will be likely to set you back. There are quite a few factors to bear in mind when it comes to the cost of a wedding and we’ll be covering them all.

What Is A Catholic Church Wedding?

A Catholic Church wedding is just like any other marriage but is often known as holy matrimony. At least one member of the couple should be a Catholic Christian. And the wedding should be held in the parish of either the bride or the groom. Before a Catholic Church approves your wedding, you’ll often need to submit specific documents, partake in activities more often at the church and have regular meetings. Marriage preparation can take anywhere from 6 months to one year.

How Much Do Churches Charge For Weddings?

It’s a well-known fact that weddings are expensive. Between the food, the drinks, the dress, the flowers – the prices rack up quickly. And many couples spend thousands on their wedding. However, if you or your partner (or both) are religious and marrying somewhere important to your faith is an option for you both – the cost will often be much lower.

The cost of a church wedding will depend on many factors. The main factors you’ll need to consider are:

The size of the church
The location of the church
The church you wish to get married in

These factors will mean a significant difference in the price. Most churches consider the price a donation, and some may not even specify a donation price. But the average cost you’ll be looking to pay in the US is anywhere between a few hundred dollars, to $1000. However, these prices are not firm and it will be different for every church. If you have a church in mind, it may be best to ask.

Church Of England Weddings

Church of England weddings are different and can be much more expensive. For example, in the UK, the minimum fee in 2021 is £495, providing you marry in your home parish. This does not take into account additional fees such as heating, an organist, bell ringers, flowers, etc. So be sure to keep this in mind if you’re planning a Church of England wedding. You can find out more about Your Church Wedding here.

How Much To Donate To Catholic Church For Wedding?

In theory, a Catholic Church wedding costs nothing. The sacrament of marriage is free and has no price tag. However, a donation should be made if you’re having a Catholic Church wedding. Your church may already have a set price they share with you, or they may leave the donation cost down to you. If you grew up in the church, the price is likely to be much less than if you’re not a member.

The average price if you grew up in the church is around $200. And the average price for non-members can be anywhere between $400-$2000! But again, this all comes down to the church, where it’s located, and how many guests you’re having. It’s best to ask if you’re unsure. If the donation is left for you to choose from, I would recommend following the average guidelines above.

Additional Costs For Catholic Church Weddings

It’s important to note that the donation cost is just for the church itself and the ceremony. But there are many additional costs that the donation will not cover and you need to bear these in mind; as these can really take a lot out of your wedding budget!

Some additional costs to bear in mind are:

Organists/Musicians. Some Catholic Churches may offer this as part of your wedding package. However, more often than not, it’s an additional fee. If you ask your church, they’ll likely have some recommendations for you. If the organists/musicians are extra, the average price is around $300-$900. This will all depend on their experience and how many you’re looking for.
Bells. Most couples like the church bells to announce their wedding. However, this is not often free! And can set you back anywhere between $100-$250!
Décor. While some churches may already be perfect as they are, at others you may wish to decorate yourself. This is something you organize yourself. However, check everything with your church before you make any decisions. This will include items such as flowers for the pew, signage, candles, etc. The Bridal Association of America predicts it will cost around $391 for these additional extras.
Deposit. This may not be at every church, but sometimes you may be asked to pay a small deposit. This will be refunded after the wedding but is taken in case any damage takes place throughout the time that you’re there. On average, this may be around $200.
Flowers. Of course, the church will not provide any flowers. So if you’d like flowers down the aisle or any kind of decoration which involves flowers – this will often take out a large chunk of your budget. Particularly fresh flowers.

There may be other additional costs, depending on what you’re having at your wedding. But these are all things you can discuss with your church once you’ve set your heart on a location.

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you to become more familiar with Catholic Church wedding costs and what is seen as an appropriate donation to give if you’re unsure. A church wedding cost will vary massively depending on the size and location – and also if it’s the church you’ve grown up in. The best course of action is to book a meeting with your church and discuss everything that you’re unsure of.

Did you have your wedding in a Catholic Church? If you’re comfortable sharing your donation or how much you paid, please feel free to let us know in the comments below. You may be helping out future brides and grooms with their own weddings.