Ideas on Selecting Your Special Wedding Date

What does it mean to have “the perfect wedding date?”  To each couple this will likely mean something very different.  Some couples opt for days that have a special significance to them, while others choose the date based on a specific month or season.  No matter the reason for the date you choose, it’s important to keep many aspects in mind before signing contracts. 

Special Significance

Is there a specific event or occasion that occurred, or does occur, on your wedding date?  Or does it just hold significance to you as a couple?  Many a times couples would like to get married around the day they met, or the anniversary of their first date.  This way it will make the past memory even more significant.  It is important to realize that your “special date” may not be available, or may not fall on the particular day of the week you hope to host your wedding. Be prepared to make compromises.  Sometimes you will have to settle for a wedding date that is close to your “special date.”  If you are lucky enough to have your wedding on a significant date to you and your fiancé, then it will the celebration even more special. 

The Four Seasons

            Some couples know a particular season in which they would like to get married, but not necessarily a particular month or date.  Each season does come with its own advantages and disadvantages in regards to hosting your special day.  For example, if you want rich colors to be a part of your wedding, then you are an autumn bride.  However, daylight begins to decrease in these months, so if you want outside photographs be sure to schedule accordingly for these pictures.  Of course, this will also impact you if you want an outdoor ceremony or receptions.  If you are interested in a fall wedding, then try November.  Fewer couples choose to get married then, which could mean more openings at your desired venue.  Of course, avoid Thanksgiving for increased rates and as you know our Chicago weather is quite unpredictable during this time.

 

 

            So you’re interested in an elegant white winter wedding?  During winter you of course will have to be conscious of the limited daylight hours.  Prices may be cheaper in months like December, January, and February since fewer couples tend to get married during these times.  Do keep in mind that there are exceptions to these price breaks, Christmas and New Years are often more expensive in terms of locations and vendors. Out of town guests will also likely have increased travel costs.  In addition, some of your out of town guests may have their own vacations that they have already planned during the holidays.  February can also be more expensive for flowers, especially roses, since vendors see an increase around Valentine’s Day.

            If you have always wanted a fresh feel to your wedding, full of pastels, then a spring wedding will fit the bill.  Do remember that if you want an outdoor ceremony/reception, Chicago’s weather can be unpredictable again to say the least, which could mean snow for your March wedding!  The benefit of having a spring wedding, especially April or May, is that many flowers are in season, which could help in the overall look you are trying to achieve.

 

 

            Who could forget about summer?  It is the most popular time to get married!  Since the summer months are in high demand, especially June, August, and September, the prices for vendors can be higher.  However, the benefits of beautiful weather, long days with lots of sunlight, and endless amount of available flowers may just make the extra costs worth it.  Do remember that not everyone likes the sticky heat and summertime bugs if an outdoor wedding is what your heart desires.

 

Make the day about you, but keep your guests in mind

            The wedding day should be all about you as a bridal couple.  The date you choose will likely affect your dress style, your flowers, the lighting, and possibly even your venue.  While it is your wedding day, it is important to talk it over with immediate family, as well as close friends (such as those whom you wish to have in your bridal party), to ensure they can attend.  It is your day, but you want to be positive the people you want there to celebrate with you are present.

 

            Selecting the date for your special day can be more complicated than you originally thought, but as with all aspects of wedding planning, if you think it through you are sure to find the perfect fit.  This is your fairytale…dream as large as you

BBFN (Bridal Bliss For Now)
Olivia

I've been Asked to be a Bridesmaid, Now What?

Whether it’s your sister, grade school friend or college roommate, some important woman (or man) in your life has invited you to be a part of their bridal party. If you’ve ever been part of a wedding party you know this role comes with fun times, and responsibility.

Here are our top 5 tips on how to best support your bride to be:

1. Start Saving – There is no getting around it, standing up in a wedding is going to cost some money (dress, shoes, showers, etc.). If you say yes to being in a wedding, you are saying yes to the cost of being in the wedding as well. Be realistic about your budget, and if you have any concerns talk to the bride to be before accepting the role. Once you’re on board, spend with a smile. This is someone you love, and she would do (or has done) the same for you.

2. Offer an Opinion – when asked to do so. Respect the decisions the bride feels confidence in making on her own, and offer honest opinions when she asks for them (also remember that she may not take ALL of your suggestions)

3. Lend a Helping Hand – A bride’s to do list is never-ending, or so it seems. As her big day approaches reach out to her, see what you can do. It may be tying ribbons, sorting through contracts to make a contact info. sheet, or going out for a glass (ok, bottle) of wine to de-stress. The bride might not want to ask for help, since you’ve done so much already, but she will appreciate you offering more than you know.

4. Run Interference – Unfortunately there are always going to be people involved in a wedding who cause a bit of trouble. We all have the complaining cousin, opinionated sister-in-law or friend who forgets this day is not about them. Be a buffer between the troublemaker and bride. She has enough to worry about. You may end up with a headache from listening to all that complaining, but someday karma will send the favor back to you.

5. Have Fun – Be her right hand (and left, when necessary), through her wedding day prep, ceremony and all of the formal activities. When it comes time for the reception, kick back and have fun. The bride will most likely be most relaxed during this time, and will take away many happy memories of her guests celebrating the love between her and her new husband.

Abide by all of these guidelines and you are sure to win “Best Supporting Bridesmaid” in our book!

BBFN (Bridal Bliss for Now),
Olivia