How “Real” is Reality TV When it Comes to Planning Your Wedding

I love watching “Say Yes to the Dress” & ‘Four Weddings” as much as the next girl. WE TV can distract me for a few hours at a time as I watch couples navigate all of the decisions that go into wedding planning. However, as someone who works in the wedding industry I am watching from a different point of view than a bride-to-be or single girl daydreaming about her big day.

 

Reality TV does a great job of inspiring brides. The best, brightest and most cutting edge trends are highlighted for all to enjoy. Wedding related television shows have guided brides in their gown style, inspired décor and bridal party attire color selections and no doubt helped to create some fantastic celebrations.

However, I fear that reality TV has also given brides some unrealistic expectations when it comes to their big day. Many of these shows do not disclose costs, or at least the full cost of their wedding. For example, it is common to see a bride with a $3,000 budget for a wedding gown on television. Given that the gown is often budgeted at 5% of the total wedding cost, we can guess that this gown is part of a $60,000 wedding. The average wedding cost in the United States is $24,000, which creates an average gown budget of $1,200, quite a difference.

 

 

There are also costs that are unseen to the untrained eye. In addition to the base cost of any wedding related item you need to leave room in your budget to account for tax (often close to 10%), labor, shipping and/or delivery and service charges (most commonly found with your caterer or venue). These fees can range anywhere from 18% to 24% of your total bill. This will grow proportionally with your overall wedding budget.

 

Finally, for better or worse, there needs to be accommodation for the cost of living in different locations. The price of labor will likely be higher in a large metropolitan city (i.e. Chicago, New York) than it is in a smaller city. If you have your heart set on a product only available in a larger city you may end up paying more in shipping fees to get it to you. This information is not meant to scare you, rather provide you information to set realistic expectations.

 

 

Floral designers, bridal gown consultants, and wedding planners truly do love when an inspired bride comes in. It is lovely to work with a couple who know what they are looking for on their wedding day. So, watch all the reality TV you would like to, and keep notes on your favorite ideas. When it comes time to start your planning, be up front and realistic with your budget. Hire professionals you trust, and work with them to create the day that you have been dreaming of.

BBFN (Bridal Bliss for now),

Olivia

How to Write a Maid-Of-Honor Speech in 10 Easy Steps

                The moment you receive the exciting news that you have been chosen to be the Maid-Of-Honor, you are filled with so many happy emotions!  There are a lot of duties as a Maid-of-Honor that every girl looks forward to… helping choose her perfect dress, cake tastings, food tastings, helping her down the aisle and just being her emotional and supportive rock.  With this being said, there is an element of being the Maid-of-Honor that most are nervous about, and maybe even dread… The Maid-of-Honor Speech.  There is a lot of pressure that comes along with preparing and giving this speech, and I am here to make the process a lot easier!  Follow these 10 Easy Steps, and you will be writing a speech that you will be proud of, and one that might even bring a tear to the Bride & Groom!

1.       Do Not, I Repeat, Do Not Procrastinate

I know as the Maid-of-Honor you are busy with all of your fun and not-so-fun duties.  The Bride is counting on you to help her in every way possible, but she is also counting on you to write a meaningful and memorable speech.  With this being said… although you are busy, do not put off writing the speech until the week, or even the day before.  Trust me, when you have more time on your hands, the words will come together beautifully!     

2.       Know Your Audience

Knowing your Audience can be difficult, yet it is important to know the demographics of who you are speaking to.   Asking the Bride & Groom can be a great resource to review you on who will be attending the wedding, and what the best style of speech they would recommend.  Say your audience is mostly above the age of 50 and they are more of a serious group.  I would not recommend telling a lot of jokes, and I definitely wouldn’t recommend talking about those “good old college days”.  Knowing your audience will not only bring you a sense of comfort, but it will also help create a speech that the guests will appreciate.  

3.       Keep It Short & Sweet

Unfortunately, we see this mistake all of the time.  The Maid-of-Honor’s Speech is way too long, and you can tell she has lost the audience.  There is not a need to tell every moment you two had together...  You are standing there as the Maid-of-Honor, they all know how close you are.  So make it short and sweet and try to keep it at the most 2 to 3 minutes!

4.       Take This Seriously

Your Best Friend/Sister/Cousin/etc. has put you in this position because they trust you to take this speech seriously.  Be completely mature about the whole thing, and remember who is counting on you.  Although it may seem like a quick little speech, it is something the Bride is really looking forward to!

5.       Start with a Story

Starting with a quick story will set the mood for the rest of your speech.  If you would like your speech to be upbeat and funny, start with a silly (and appropriate) story of you and the Bride.  If you want the speech to be emotional, start with one that maybe brought you both together or a moment where you truly bonded.  Whatever this story may be, remember your audience, and make sure that it is one the couple will truly enjoy. 

6.       Go Down Memory Lane

Included with your initial story, also tell another story of a funny and/or touching moment you had with the Bride or with the couple.  This could be childhood memories, how you first met, when they first met, or a time you spent with both of them together.  Make it one that will touch their hearts and possibly make them laugh.  Whatever it is, make it a memory that they will appreciate reminiscing with you and their guests. 

7.       Why They’re Meant To Be

This is critical to any Maid-of-Honor Speech.  Letting them know what you see in both of them and how it makes them perfect together, can truly be a tear jerker.  This could be a story on how they met, a story on how they act together,  or maybe even the time that she came to you and told you he was the one.  Validating that they belong together is a beautiful moment for the couple and for your audience.

8.       Stay Calm, Cool & Collected 

Although you may feel a lot of pressure to deliver the perfect speech, just remember… there is no such thing as a perfect speech!  All you need to remember is to express your emotions, let them know how much they mean to you, and hey, if you’re confident in your humor, throw in a good joke or two.  Whatever your style may be, just stay calm, cool & collected, and know that the Bride has given you this position, which means she completely believes in you!

9.       Practice, Practice, Practice!

You may feel confident in your speaking abilities… or you may not… either way, practice is key!  Standing in front of a mirror, or speaking to your family/friends beforehand, will help tremendously, and can only boost your confidence!  If you have gone over it many times and still don’t seem to have grasped it completely, it doesn’t hurt to make notecards.  Notecards can be there for you as an outline and help guide you throughout your speech!  Whatever your style may be, practicing will go a long way, and you’ll be glad you did

10.   Most Importantly… Be Yourself!

The Bride loves you for who you are; so remember when writing and presenting your speech to be your complete self!  This is the most important advice I can give you when writing and giving your Maid-of-Honor speech… Give it your all and have it come from your big heart!  If you at least follow this step, I promise, it will come together perfectly!

BBFN (Bridal Bliss For Now),

Olivia

Top 10 2014 Unique Catering Trends

What you are serving and how you are serving it, is still a major decision regarding your Wedding.  Although this is a major decision, today’s brides are more concerned with the party then having a formal sit-down dinner.  Having your food match your theme, the atmosphere and the décor can be difficult, but here is the top 10 Unique Catering Trends of 2014, that might be what you’re looking for! 

Vegan and Gluten-Free Bars

                Not only will you be accommodating to your guests who may have food allergies or preferences, you are also giving them a healthy and unique alternative.  As the world is focusing on a more “green” way of life, this is a perfect addition that fits just that.  Examples of a vegan and gluten-free option are sushi stations, salad bars, and a Mexican station featuring guacamole with tortilla chips and Pico de Gallo.

These Sweet Tables are on Another Level

                Cake does not seem to be enough this year!  2014 is bringing sweet tables to a whole new level, and it looks delicious!  Incorporate your themed décor to your sweet table by making the candies match your colors!  This is not only a great opportunity to shower your guests in yummy treats, but it is also a way to show your fun personality! 

Add Your Favorite Breakfast Items

                Breakfast… it’s what’s for dinner!  Breakfast items, such as waffles, pancakes, French toast and more, are turned into mini bites and are being served for both dinner and appetizers this year!  The most important element to remember is to make it unique, and make it look like it belongs amongst your other food options.  Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so why not incorporate it into your Wedding!

Staying Classy: Add A Cheese Station

                Yes that’s right; add a cheese station for one of your appetizer choices!  Wine, cheese and grapes have become one of the most popular food stations at a wedding!  This element would go beautifully with a rustic or vintage theme, and do not forget to hire a cheese connoisseur for a special touch! 

Food Trucks are here to Stay

                In 2012, we wrote a blog about how food trucks were the latest trend for catering a wedding!  Well here we are in 2014, and the food truck is still a unique catering trend!   When using a food truck, you can incorporate your favorite foods & restaurants in a fun and stylish way! 

Oldies But Goodies: Incorporating Your Childhood Favorites

                Go back in time, and think about your favorite childhood foods, and then add this to your menu!  Incorporating childhood favorite foods has become quite the trend this year, and we cannot deny how much we love it! From Ho Hos and Twinkies, to Pop Rocks and Lunchables, these items would make your Wedding one your guests will love and remember!

Incorporate A Lot by Adding Mini Options

                You cannot go wrong with mini food options!  You can turn your favorite meals into bite-size, adorable creations that your guests will enjoy!  The most requested items that we have seen is mini French fries, sliders, mini grilled cheeses with a cup of tomato soup, mini popcorns, mini pizzas and much more!  The Mini options are perfect for appetizers and late night snacks! 

“Create Your Own” Stations

                This has been very popular for quite some time now, but is still going strong in 2014!  “Create Your Own” stations allow your guests to create exactly what they want to eat!  These stations can range from a Smore or popcorn station, to creating their very own tacos, sliders and pastas.  Give you guests plenty of options to choose from, and it will definitely be a hit! 

Make It Your Own: Signature Cocktails

                Signature Cocktails is one of my favorite catering trends!  This is a fun & unique way to add your very own touch to the bar!  Mesh your favorite drink, with maybe your name, your new last name, or something that is special to you and your fiancé.  Examples of this would be the “Michelle Martini” or the “Maulik Mule”.  What ever you decide, it will be fabulous!    

Pass It Around: Family Style

                Since you are surrounded by loved ones, why not make your wedding dinner like the ones you had at home!  Family style is a brilliant way to serve your food, and we are glad that this is trending!  Instead of having a buffet or plated meal, why not make bowlfuls of each of your favorite items and have your guests serve themselves and pass it along?  This style of service is also a nice way to have your guests determine what and how much they would like to eat.   

BBFN (Bridal Bliss For Now),

Olivia

What Are You Holding Down the Aisle?

The Wedding Bouquet is a very important detail that you will want to put a lot of thought into.  Your bouquet will not only compliment your dress, but it will show off your personality and of course tie yourself into the Wedding Décor.  In 2014, we are seeing a lot of new and exciting Wedding Bouquet Trends that you should consider when ordering your floral masterpiece!

Neutral Toned Bouquets

This year, neutral tones are taking over regarding Wedding Décor, and it doesn’t fall short with Wedding Bouquets as well.  Pastel pinks, purples, greens, yellows and creams really compliment each other well, and there is no denying how romantic they are.  For you Vintage/Country/Boho Brides, this color scheme would be a perfect choice for your Bridal Bouquet!

Bling, Bling, Bling

This trend is absolutely fabulous!  We are loving the incorporation of bling into the Bride’s bouquet!  There are many different ways to enhance your bouquet; it is up to you and your florist which choice you would like to go with!  You can sprinkle glitter over your bouquet, incorporate glittered flowers throughout, or even stick gems/diamonds throughout the bouquet, whatever you choose it is going to be stunning and will definitely stand out! 

Cascading Bouquets

Containing flowers into a bunch is not your only option… let your floral flow!  This new trend of Cascading Bouquets is beautiful and also adds a touch of romance.  Once again, for you Vintage, Country/Boho Brides, this trend would be perfect for you to consider!  As you can see below, cascading bouquets are gorgeous and absolutely unique!

Variety Flowers

Do not just pick one flower and stick to it!  Choose a mixture of different flowers for your bouquet and let it become your very own!  Some trending flowers to consider are Hydrangeas and Peonies!  Hydrangeas add volume and a modern touch!  Peonies are for you summer brides and run a little bit on the expensive side, but they are absolutely breathtaking!  Incorporating these and other flower options into one bouquet will be stunning and purely yours!

The Ombre Bouquet

The Ombre is not just regarding hair anymore!  From the Bridesmaid dresses, to the linen and the Bridal bouquet, the Ombre has incorporated itself into all parts of the Wedding Décor!  Ombré is the unique effect you see when colors gradually fade into each other!  It is eye-catching, memorable and will definitely enhance your beautiful wedding!

BBFN (Bridal Bliss For Now),

Olivia

My Engagement Ring, It is Perfect!!!!! Maybe…

Have you fallen in love with your engagement ring?  Or do you love it, but you’re not quite in love with it? 

It took all the Groom’s courage, and months of saving for that special ring, which will forever represent his love and devotion to you.  The ring will symbolize his commitment to happily ever after.  After the euphoria of the proposal, engagement announcement and the solicited approval from your BFF, you sit back and wonder, “Would I have picked this ring?” After all, you have to wear it everyday.  You are not the only one out there pondering this question.

Before you decide to share your feelings with your new fiancée you might consider the following:
Do you really hate it?
Is it that he just didn’t listen to your subtle hints or taking you shopping for the ring?
If it really clashes with your jewelry collection and you will constantly think of it as your “not so fabulous ring,” then tell you partner.  In a gentle way explain to him how happy you are to commit yourself to him for the rest of your life.  Tell him, even though you were ecstatic that he put so much time and effort into buying the ring, maybe you can exchange or redesign the ring.  If he gets offended by this don’t be surprised.  You just told him that he can’t pick the right ring and doesn’t understand your taste.  But these few minutes of emotional awkwardness may turn into a day of blissful ring shopping.   
I, being a Type A personality, had the same situation and hated the ring.  The funny part is that I helped pick the ring.   So I hated what I had picked, and wanted to redesign mine one month into our engagement. I felt bad, but after few glasses of wine I found the courage to tell my fiancée that I was wrong.  Confessing I was wrong was enough to make my fiancée decide to upgrade my ring. A confession I will never admit to.  But I love my ring now, and love to show it off. 

One possible catch, is the ring a family heirloom?
Has the ring been handed down generation after generation? Does the family have deep emotional ties to it? Have they told you how lucky you are to receive the ring?  It is rare in this day an age that heirlooms are passed down as engagement rings, but it does happen.  What do you do?? Many brides wish for a ring that is uniquely theirs, and chosen just for them.  Conveying this sentiment to your fiancée, and his family, might be tricky.  Express to your fiancée and the family how honored you are to receive such a ring, and to have been bestowed the caretaker of the ring as it passes from generation to generation.  Ladies, this will be a battle, you must pick and choose.  Could the heirloom ring serve as a commitment ring while you select a ring that reflects your lifestyle?
Greeks believed that the diamonds were precious splinters of stars that had fallen to the Earth. Diamonds have a unique status as the ultimate symbol of love.  If you have fallen in love with your ring, or are about to fall in love with it, do know that engagement rings have strings of your heart wrapped in your fingers.

BBFN  (Bridal Bliss For Now)
Olivia


If you are a bride that got her “Perfect” ring, would love to know how did you drop those subtle hints?

A Decorators Perspective

Who lights the candle?

It is hard to be invited to a friend or family members wedding as a designer, I am always working on the weekend. On a rare occasion few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of attending a wedding as a guest. It’s a different world when you get to be a guest, enjoying a Raspberry Lime martini and tenderloin on a crostini, with a dollop of crème fraise.

Oliveaire Design Studio

I heard a chime signaling me up into the ballroom, and as I entered I was……… not sure what I was.

There were beautiful flowers, the lighting was just perfect and linens had set the stage for an elegant dining experience. But, the candles surrounding the centerpieces and floating in the tall cylinder were not lit. At that moment I saw the bridesmaids and the Banquet Captain approach each table to light the candles. Unfortunately not all of the wicks were to ready to be lit, so the whole process was a bit challenging. 

Oliveaire Design Studio 

This experience got me thinking about the pampering each of our Event Designers and Creative Director at Oliveaire strives to provide for our brides and grooms. We work to make each wedding a perfect day for our clients, and how this is truly an “Oliveaire experience”.  But enough about that. 

Oliveaire Design Studio 

I want to share some tips for the brides who are interviewing florists, or already working with a florist, to prevent some of the issues that may potentially arise on the day of your wedding:

1. If you have candles that are part of your centerpiece, and they are being provided by the florist, ask them who will be responsible for lighting them, and when they will be lit. You want to make sure that they are lit in your room photo shots, but are not lit so early that they burn halfway down by the time your guests enter the room.
2. The glass container that these stunning floral centerpieces reside in, are they yours to keep, or for guests to take home? Most of the time, unless written in the contract, glass containers are a rental item, and they are picked up at the end of the night.
3. Will the florist come back at the end of the wedding night to pick up all the glassware?  Your venue may dictate this policy.  They may want all vendors to clear out all items and inventory by certain time.
4. Will the boutonnière include two pins, and will there be extra pins sent? Also, will they be individually labeled with the bridal party members’ names on it?  This will avoid any confusion as to whom the flowers belong too.
5. Is a sample floral centerpiece included?  This will give you the opportunity to admire your vision, as well as make any changes to your floral design in advance.

All you brides to be, your day will be breathtaking.  At the end of the day you will have transitioned from Miss to Mrs.

BBFN (Bridal Bliss for Now),

Olivia

For our Bride: The Balancing Act and Making Your Dream Wedding Come True

Being a bride is a balancing act in many ways. One of the toughest jobs you have is to keep all of the decision makers involved in your wedding happy. You have to establish priorities as a couple, and decide on what means the most to you. Then…

You need to figure out who else will be contributing to your wedding budget, and what spoken or unspoken expectations come with that financial contribution. Even if there are not immediately spoken expectations, they are there. Your father may be making a small contribution and seem laid back (but he assumes you want him to walk you down the aisle), your grandmother may want to pay for your gown (as long as it’s not strapless), mother may tell you that she trusts you to select a menu (as long as it doesn’t include fish), and his mother may make a passing comment that she knows a photographer (but what she is not saying is that she fully expects you to use said photographer).

Here are a few tips to help you navigate these tricky waters:

• Start the conversation early – the earlier you start to talk about each person’s vision for your wedding, the better. This gives you the most amount of time to find common ground.
• It is your day, be careful how often you assert that – everyone wants you to be happy with your wedding day. The memories will be most vivid for the two of you. BUT, you will surely earn the title of Bridezilla if you overuse that statement.
• Be prepared to make concessions – as you and your fiancé decide what is most important to you, also start to think about areas that you are willing to bend to keep people happy.
• Listen to others’ wishes – while you may be exhausted of listening to others opinions, you never know when someone will offer up a suggestion that you truly are excited about.

The old cliché is true, you can’t keep all of the people happy, all of the time. It is definitely in your best interest to figure out which people are most important for you to please, at least some of the time.

BBFN (Bridal Bliss for Now),

Olivia