Wedding Planning Ideas by WeddingFanatic — Style. Design. Inspiration.

5 Simple but Beautiful Wedding Dresses

by Katie on May 13, 2013

At some point, most women will have their perfect wedding dress in their mind. Often times it’s an elaborate design with plenty of embellishments and sparkles. However, sometimes the wedding dress just needs to be simple and couldn’t be any more beautiful than it is. Here are 5 simple but beautiful wedding dress designs.

Soft and Flowing

This breathtaking dress features a “criss cross” bodice with just a little bit of sparkle. It then flows out into a truly princess-style dress that will make any woman feel gorgeous. It’s very simple yet unbelievably beautiful.

Alfred Angelo Disney Princess Cinderella Wedding Dress

Photo Source: alfredangelo.com

Textured

This strapless dress has a very elegant, simple bodice and a textured skirt that is extremely interesting to the eye without being complicated. This would pair well with elaborate or heavy jewelry.

Photo Source: wedspace.tumblr.com

Calf-Length

Perfect for an outdoor or beach wedding, this calf-length dress also has a criss-cross bodice as well as a large flower embellishment and a simple ruffle. It’s very simple and would be look outstanding on any woman.

Photo Source: weddingtonway.com

Soft Ruffled Dress

This dress is ruffled from the waist to the toe in soft, simple waves. The waist tie is the only embellishment, making the dress irresistibly simple but oh, so beautiful!

Photo Source: freshwedding.net

A-Line One Shoulder

This A-line, one shoulder dress flows and elongates. It’s incredibly simple, with only a bejeweled waist cinch, but looks absolutely fantastic.

Photo Source: barbaradress.com

As you can see, dresses don’t have to be elaborate to be gorgeous. Use these as inspiration when choosing your own simply beautiful wedding dress.

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Wedding Planning: Should You Tip Your Vendors?

by Katie on May 6, 2013

Have you ever wondered whether you need to budget for tips? Should you tip your caterers? Should you slip your DJ a little something extra after he entertains your group? Here are some important tips for tipping on your wedding day.

Caterer

Ask whether gratuity is included in the overall catering bill. If not, then tipping is a good idea. Think of your servers as waiters at a restaurant. Most people would tip between 15 and 20%, so figure up what you’d give the caterer based on that.

Caterer

Transportation

When determining whether or not to tip your limo driver or other chauffer, find out whether gratuity is included. If it not, then go for about the same as you would tip the caterer, or 15 to 20%.

Photo Source: royalaustin.com

Band/DJ

If you’ll have a DJ or band at your reception, you should tip based on how they perform. If you are totally impressed with the service they provide, giving them a tip can let them know how much you appreciate them.

Photo Source: cyndihardy.com

Officiant

Most people prefer to give a donation to the church or spiritual sanctuary that loans them their officiant. The usual rate for the donations is about $100 to $500.

Photo Source: lacymariephotography.com

Stylist

Most people find that it is appropriate to tip their stylist. You should go for between 15 to 20% of the charge for hair and makeup.

Photo Source: totalbeauty.com

Photographer/Videographer

Most brides and grooms feel that it’s more appropriate to present the photographer and videographer with personal gifts to thank them for their service, along with the payment for services.

Photographer

This handy guide can help you determine what to budget for tips.

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Wedding Theme: Steampunk

by Katie on April 30, 2013

What could be greater than a steampunk wedding? If you never thought you’d see the day, well think again. A steampunk wedding theme can be highly entertaining and a ton of fun for you and your guests! Here are just a few ideas for your steampunk wedding.

The Cake

No doubt you’ll need to interview several bakers and line up one of the best, but this steampunk wedding cake is totally worth it. It features cogs and gears and is done in shades of gold, bronze and “wood.” It’s absolutely remarkable and beautiful.

Photo Source: aweddingcakeblog.com

Wedding Invitations

These super adorable wedding invitations are totally steampunk, and feature a zip drive that contains the details for the wedding. This is truly unique and sure to make an impression on your guests.

Photo Source: trendhunter.com

The Bouquet

This unique bouquet holder is absolutely gorgeous and holds your wedding flowers for the big day.

Photo Source: blog.fiftyflowers.com

The Attire

The great thing about a steampunk theme is that you have a lot of choices when it comes to attire. You can go with several different looks. Check out what these couples did:

Photo Source: epbot.com Steampunk Wedding Dress

Photo Source: jaimayhew.com Steampunk Wedding Attire

Photo Source: angelicapeady.com.au

As you can see, there are many different directions you can go in!

Accessories

Have your hubby wear these creative steampunk wedding cufflinks to make the ceremony even more special.

Photo Source: ellendean.hubpages.com

If you’re really dedicated, you can go with a super unique steampunk wedding ring:

Photo Source: etsy.com

This is a fun theme that is admittedly not for most couples, but those who love the steampunk theme will absolutely adore these elements.

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6 Popular Wedding Flower Choices

by Katie on April 22, 2013

If you’re trying to determine which flowers to choose for your wedding, look no further. These popular wedding flowers have been carried by brides and used to decorate tables for generations. Here are 6 popular wedding flowers.

Tulips

Tulips are the perfect spring flower and they’re versatile because they come in a variety of colors. Brides adore them and they are gorgeous whether they’re in a bouquet or in a centerpiece.

Photo Source: hendcyber.com

Calla Lilies

Calla lilies are another very popular flower, and they can come in a variety of shades. These violet shaded calla lilies are beautiful.

Photo Source: fabulationflowers.com.sg

Roses

Roses, of course, are popular and have been popular for centuries. Roses can be used by themselves or as parts of other bouquets and come in a wide range of colors.

Photo Source: theknot.ninemsn.com.au

Peonies

This bouquet is made from peonies and roses, but peonies also look beautiful by themselves. They are large, rotund flowers that are absolutely gorgeous.

Photo Source: hendcyber.com

Lily of the Valley

Lily of the valley is a spectacular flower that gives bridal bouquets a unique look. They have lots of greenery that looks great against a white dress.

Photo Source: theknot.ninemsn.com.au

Ranunculus

These round, many-petal flowers are gorgeous and come in a huge variety of shades. They have a similar look to roses and peonies and provide a great splash of color.

Photo Source: theknot.ninemsn.com.au

These are just a few of the most popular wedding flowers, and look great in bouquets and centerpieces.

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Engagement Ring Purchasing Tips: Your Guide to Color and Clarity

by Katie on April 15, 2013

When it’s time to pick out your engagement ring, it’s important to know more than just how pretty a ring is. The color and clarity often divulge how valuable and flawless a diamond is. By knowing these things, you can get the best value for your money.

Clarity

The clarity rating of a diamond marks how flawless it is. Most diamonds have naturally occurring inclusions that you can see with a jeweler’s magnifying glass and sometimes with the naked eye. If a diamond is rated I1, I2, or I3, it means that the diamond is imperfect. These will usually be the most affordable diamonds. They’re great for a budget, and still beautiful.

Photo Source: jckmarketplace.jckonline.com

Diamonds marked with a SI1 or SI2 are “slightly included,” meaning they have slight inclusions that are probably not noticeable to the naked eye. VS1 and VS2 are “very slightly included” meaning the inclusions are not visible to the naked eye and the diamond is more valuable than the SI1 or SI2 diamonds. VVS1 and VVS2 diamonds are “very, very slightly included” and this means that there are barely noticeable inclusions in the diamond, barely visible even under a jeweler’s magnifying glass.

Photo Source: michaelcfina.com

If diamonds are “internally flawless” and these are more expensive than the other clarity ratings. There are no inclusions in the diamond. There may, however, be slight surface markings. Finally, a diamond rated FL is a flawless diamond, free of internal inclusions and surface markings. This will be the most expensive diamond.

Photo Source: diamondsnewyork.tumblr.com

Color

Diamonds have natural colors to them which typically range from colorless to light yellow. The colorless diamonds are the most desired and therefore, the most expensive. Diamonds rated D, E, and F are colorless and will be expensive. Diamonds rated G, H, I and J are near colorless and almost as desirable as the colorless diamonds.

Photo Source: goldstockjewelers.com

Those rated K, L, and M are light yellow in color and still valuable and beautiful. Those rated N, O, P, Q and R are very light yellow. These diamonds are more affordable but still beautiful. Finally, those rated S, T, U, V, W, X, Y and Z are light yellow, also called fancy yellow. These are the most affordable but still really beautiful. Color is more a matter of taste, and many people prefer the light yellow diamonds.

1.51 carat Oval Fancy Light Yellow Diamond Engagement Ring in 18k White Gold

Photo Source: goeldiamonds.com 2.08 Ct. Canary Fancy Light-Fancy Yellow Cushion Cut Diamond Engagement Ring

Photo Source: kingofjewelry.com

By using this guide, you can determine whether you’re getting a great value for your money or need to shop around a bit more.

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Finding the Perfect Piece of Bridal Jewelry

by Katie on April 8, 2013

Your bridal jewelry is nearly as important as your dress and will serve to accessorize your dress. It’s important to choose the perfect pieces to work with your overall ensemble. Here are a few tips for choosing the best possible jewelry on your big day.

Bridal Jewelry

Choose Versatile Pieces

Many brides will change from their wedding gown into a more comfortable gown that will be worn during the reception. If you don’t want to spend the time changing out each piece of jewelry, choose something versatile that will work with the more formal gown and the less formal reception wear.

Bridal Jewlery Set

Traditional Bridal Jewelry

If you want the traditional look, go with something classy and elegant like pearls, diamonds or cubic zirconias. Women who don’t often wear jewelry can go with single pearls or diamonds on fine chains to avoid the heavy, over-dressed feeling. There are some dresses that larger, more elaborate jewelry works very well with. Don’t be afraid to browse until you find something that speaks to you.

Bridal Necklace and Earrings

Non-Traditional Bridal Jewelry

It’s becoming more and more popular for brides to wear jewelry that isn’t as traditional. Copper and brass are both big right now, as are enameled jewelry types. Geometric shapes and sparkling aurora borealis are also very popular. If you’re wearing a non-traditional dress there are so many different choices available to you.

Non-Traditional Bridal Jewelry

Take your time and look through pictures and different combinations until you find something perfect. It will be very worth it, especially considering it will be memorialized forever in your wedding pictures and video. When you consider the different possibilities, it will be easier to find bridal jewelry that suits you perfectly.

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How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Rings

by Katie on April 1, 2013

Your wedding ring will be on your finger for many years to come, so it had certainly better be one you love. Here are a few simple tips for choosing wedding rings that you will love more with each passing year!

Photo Source: everwhimphotographs.com

Use Your Existing Jewelry as a Guide

When trying to come up with the perfect wedding rings, think about your existing jewelry. What precious metals do you wear most often? Is it yellow gold? White gold? Platinum? Do you prefer highly embellished jewelry or simpler, elegant items? Use your existing jewelry to help you choose the perfect wedding rings.

Wedding Ring

Photo Source: brilliance.com

Your Budget

You will have to use your budget when trying to find the perfect wedding rings. In fact, it’s best if you don’t even look at rings that are outside of your budget. Checking for previously owned wedding rings can be a great way to get higher quality rings on a smaller budget. You can also compromise; for instance, if you love the look of platinum but it’s just not in your budget, go with white gold.

Photo Source: etsy.com

Browse

You should spend a lot of time browsing through different pictures of wedding rings. This will give you the chance to see many different styles and find something that you simply can’t live without. When you take the time to really look, you’re sure to find a style that speaks to you.

Photo Source: generalvalentine.com

Wedding Ring

Make sure you begin looking for wedding rings well in advance so you have time to select the perfect rings without being pressured to do so. This will allow you to take into account all of the points above and choose something that you’re going to adore.

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6 Wedding Aisle Ideas

by Katie on March 26, 2013

The wedding aisle is your path to the future; a beautiful walk that symbolizes your life together with your new spouse. There are a variety of ways to decorate the aisle, so if you’re looking for something different, you’ve come to the right place. Check out these fun ideas for wedding aisle décor.

1. Printed Wedding Runners

If you want something personalized, you can order a printed wedding runner that includes your name and your soon-to-be spouse’s name as well as the date. Themes (including seasonal themes) are available so you may be able to match the runner to your theme.

Printed Aisle Runner

2. Boho Wedding Aisle

This beautiful outdoor aisle is very Boho-inspired, with lots of pretty color and natural elements. Can’t you just imagine the bride having a feather in her hair and the groom wearing a slouchy hat?

Photo Source: ourblogoflove.com

3. Floral Wedding Aisle

If you want something simple and beautiful, decorate your wedding aisle with flowers that lead up to a flower-covered arch. This is perfect for an outdoor wedding and really beautiful with any wedding theme.

Flower Petal Wedding Aisle

4. Flower Designs

If you want your wedding aisle to be fancy, why not have it decorated with flower petals? As you can see, this particular one has been decorated with a scroll design. It’s beautiful, although the bride may be a bit hesitant to walk down it and scatter the petals.

Photo Source: lifewithdirection.blogspot.ca

5. Formal Aisle Décor

This beautiful outdoor aisle décor is very formal, and features a white carpet flanked by gorgeous flower arrangements. At the end of the aisle stands the highly decorated arch and table.

Photo Source: weddingphotography.com.ph

6. Feathered Aisle

If you want to lend a bit of angelic beauty to your wedding, cover the aisle in fluffy white feathers. It’s an ethereal look that is perfect for many different themes.

Photo Source: abeautifulmess.typepad.com

These different ideas will serve as great inspiration and can help you select the perfect wedding aisle décor for your ceremony.

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How You Can Use Social Media to Help Plan Your Wedding

by Katie on March 19, 2013

While you’re busy thinking of dress styles and color palettes, you can utilize the power of social media to help you plan your wedding. Here are a few ways that social media can make things easier for you as you plan the perfect wedding.

Ask for Ideas

Use your Twitter page or Facebook page to ask for ideas or recommendations for things you’re stuck on. People are typically more than willing to share information about vendors that they really love, venues that are gorgeous, etc. You can get a wide range of ideas that will help you select the perfect elements for your wedding.

Photo Source: twittertoolsbook.com

Create Special Groups

You can create special groups for your wedding guests or wedding party to keep them informed of the wedding progress, their jobs, etc. This is a fun and easy way to get information out to those people quickly without having to contact each one individually.

Photo Source: webreignited.com

Post Updates to Your Wedding Website

You can post updates to your wedding website via your social networking profiles. This will help notify your guest list or wedding party of when to check the website for news, etc.

Photo Source: eWedding.com

Share Fun Wedding or Engagement Photos

If there are family members or friends you couldn’t invite or those who couldn’t make it to your wedding, social networking sites are a wonderful way to share wedding or engagement photos. This allows those people to be a part of your wedding and engagement even if they can’t physically be there.

Photo Source: praisewedding.com

Even if you don’t partake in social media on a day to day basis, you might want to consider creating profiles for the purpose of wedding planning. It can be a great communication and sharing tool.

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The History of the Bridal Shower: Where the Celebration Comes From

by Katie on March 11, 2013

Today, the bridal shower is a wonderful time to bring the whole family (or just the girls) and friends together to celebrate the upcoming wedding. It’s full of joy and fun, and a great celebration before the wedding.

Photo Source: lanedittoe.com Bridal Shower Decor

Photo Source: catchmyparty.com

The Origins

The bridal shower dates all the way back to the 1800’s, and the purpose wasn’t necessarily to help provide household goods that the couple would need, but to ensure the wedding could take place. Guests would bring money or other gifts that were to help provide funds or supplies for the actual wedding. This helped the bride and groom (as well as their families) prepare for the wedding. It’s a bit romantic the way the tradition is said to have started.

Long ago, fathers would reserve dowries for their daughters; gifts of money and land that would be given to the groom if the father blessed the wedding. However, if the father did not approve of the groom, he would withhold the dowry, which often meant he would not pay for the wedding. In times like this, the friends of the bride and groom would come together to try and help them have a wedding without the bride’s father’s support.

Modern Times

These days, we don’t worry about things like dowries, and the purpose of the wedding shower isn’t to collect money for the wedding, but we still love our bridal showers. Modern celebrations often include brunches or dinners and each guest brings a touching, fun or useful gift for the bride. While things have certainly changed, one thing about a bridal shower still remains the same: friends and family show up to show their support for the soon-to-be bride, and have a ton of fun together.