First: think about how you want your wedding to look and feel! Do you picture yourself in a timeless elegant wedding dress, standing in front of a simple altar decorated with soft white flowers with natural hints of green? Perhaps a classic wedding would be perfect. If you love spending time outdoors or being in the country then you might want to consider a rustic barn wedding.
Second: think about what season you're getting married in! Your wedding season will affect many aspects of your event planning—from décor options to possible weather conditions on your big day. If you're getting married in the winter, maybe an ice castle is the perfect fit for you. In summer? Try something with lots of color and energy, like an outdoor wedding under a tent! The more time you spend thinking about these things now, the better prepared you'll be when it comes time to make decisions later on down the road.
Next, consider your budget. If money isn't an issue, then go ahead and book that castle! But if you're looking at more affordable options, there are plenty of ways to create a magical experience without breaking the bank.
Finally, think about what venues are available to you. If there's a location that holds special meaning for you or your soon-to-be spouse (perhaps it's where they proposed), then that could be a great place to start when brainstorming ideas for your theme. Or maybe there's an old barn nearby that would make an amazing backdrop for photos after the ceremony—you never know what might fit into your vision until you start looking around!
If you’re still having a hard time deciding which wedding theme is right for you, consider checking out the internet for some inspiration. Pinterest is a great place to look for creative ideas. Just punch in a theme like “rustic weddings” or “beach weddings” and you’ll have a great selection of ideas. Bridal magazines, blogs, websites are some additional places to get great ideas.
Visit JVCountryCreations.com to see our full collection of handcrafted wedding décor pieces that will make your wedding vision come to life including beautiful personalized birch unity candles and unique table number holders.
Remember your wedding day is all about your love for each other and celebrating your future as a couple. All the planning and the details that go into it might feel over whelming at times, but as long as you stay true to yourself and make choices that make you happy, your wedding day will be unforgettable.
]]>Rustic weddings are all about creating an atmosphere that is casual, unique, natural, elegant and sophisticated. Rustic design means pieces that are handmade, unique, and loaded with character. When it comes to rustic wedding décor, less is more.
1. Subtle, romantic lighting can make your wedding venue feel comfortable and cozy. Consider placing white birch candles on your tables to add a beautiful warm glow.
2. A lot of couples who are planning rustic weddings opt to have fewer flowers and more eye catching decor. These Table number holders are a perfect way to add a touch of elegance to your centerpieces.
3. No rustic wedding would be complete without wedding cake and a simple yet elegant cake topper like this Wire Monogram Cake Topper. JV Country Creations has many to choose from.
4. How cute are these birch wine charms? The perfect way to tag your glass. Don’t forget to order one for each person in your wedding party. A perfect little thank you gift.
5. Do you want to let your guests know what’s on the menu? These unique monogram card holders are perfect for that. Available in every letter of the alphabet and in 14 different wire colors.
There you have it 5 Must-have rustic wedding décor pieces that your guests will love. Be sure to visit JVCountryCreations.com to see our full selection of wedding décor items.
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When it comes to the décor, the number #1 thing is to make the most of the landscape. Let the greenery and growing grapes be the main focus and you won't need a ton of florals.
But for the top 5 vineyard décor ideas you need to steal, that's where JV Country Creations comes in...
1.) At a winery there is sure to be wine bottles around. Simplify your centerpieces, and let the natural elements be the focus by making double use out of the wine bottles. Our adjustable wine bottle table numbers fit just about any size wine bottle and won't distract from the beauty of nature.
2.) A subtle yet classic way to bring in the feeling of a winery into your décor is to incorporate wine barrels into your ceremony space, cocktail hour, or even cake display. This wine barrel set up made for the perfect display for our custom monogram cake topper.
3.) Another option for your table top wine bottles, is to turn them into card holders. Display your table numbers high above the table so guests can easily find their seats.
4.) Your unity candle ceremony is one of the most treasured moments of the entire ceremony. Use a wine barrel as the perfect display for your unity candle either during the ceremony or reception, or both! (Plus for a limited time only get FREE matching wine charms when you purchase a unity candle from JV Country Creations. While supplies last)
5.) The beauty is in the details. You're going to need a tag for your wine glass or else it's sure to get misplaced all night long. It doesn't get any more perfect than these Mr and Mrs wine charms!
For even more vineyard wedding décor ideas and inspiration visit www.JVCountryCreations.com
]]>1. The most important aspect of your boho wedding is the venue. This can be as unique and unconventional as the couple chooses. For an outdoor wedding the choices are limitless, from the mountains, to the beach, or even a farm. If the couple chooses an indoor venue, they might decide on a rustic barn, a Victorian estate or perhaps a winery.
2. Once the venue has been confirmed, it is time to work on choosing the décor pieces for your wedding. Bohemian wedding décor tends to be unique and eclectic also incorporating vintage and shabby chic items. Many couples prefer to incorporate natural sustainable aspects and also DIY decorations to their reception décor. It is important to include items that represent their personality and interests. Personalized décor pieces, such as this Birchwood candle, also adds a great touch.
3. Like the rest of the theme, the flowers at your wedding tend to be more unconventional for a more casual look. They often include natural elements such as feathers, pinecones and sea shells. If your ceremony is happening under an arch, consider decorating it with wildflowers, macramé and other dreamy pieces.
4. Romantic lighting, fairy lights, lanterns and candles will add to the casual romance of a boho wedding.
5. Textiles like blankets, throw pillows and tapestries create texture and warmth for a welcoming feel for this style wedding.
As you can see, when planning a boho themed wedding, the sky is the limit. What matters most is creating a unique experience that represents the free spirit and love of the wedding couple.
For more wedding décor ideas, be sure to check out JVCountryCreations.com
]]>Starting about two weeks before the date of the wedding, the couple will begin to take care of a number of last-minute details such as calling vendors such as florists, limousine drivers and cake decorators to confirm all plans and deliveries. Most caterers require a final head count approximately two weeks in advance. The couple will also want to contact the DJ or band at this time to provide a song list. This will include song selections for the entrance and special dances as well as songs the couple would like to see included during the wedding. Two weeks before the wedding is also the time for the couple to complete seating arrangements. An often-forgotten but very important last-minute detail are table numbers and or table number cards with table number holders. JV Country Creations has several beautiful table numbers and card holders to choose from. Check them out at JVCountryCreations.com.
One week before the wedding the couple will still be rushing around taking care of last-minute details. The bride, specifically, will be particular busy. The bride and her bridesmaids should have their final fittings by this time and the gowns should be picked up. The couples will need to pack for their honeymoon and organize travel documents at this time. The week before the wedding is also the time to confirm the details for the rehearsal dinner and pay the balance on the reception hall.
The day before the wedding is a very busy one. Many couples have the wedding rehearsal and dinner on this day. The bride should get a manicure and pedicure and prepare her gown, shoes and accessories for the next day. The groom should also assemble his attire and may want to get his hair trimmed as well, if necessary. Both the bride and the groom should try to take some time to relax get a good night sleep in preparation for the big day ahead.
Finally, the wedding day is here but there is still a number of things to be done. Ideally, these wedding day details will be delegated to a wedding planner, trusted friend or family member. In addition to dressing for the wedding the bride will also have her hair and makeup done. There will also be a need to have someone check the reception hall to make sure everything is set up properly, someone should meet the florist and assure she has access to the reception hall to set up the floral arrangements.
Organized planning is the key to a beautiful, low stress wedding of your dreams. Click below to get the “Ultimate Wedding Planning Timeline” to be sure not to forget all the important tasks when planning your wedding.
https://jvcountrycreations.com/pages/ultimate-wedding-planning-checklist
]]>This ceremony can be done in a variety of ways. Perhaps the most traditional ceremony is for the mother's of both the Bride and Groom or another member of the wedding party to light a taper candle that is seated at either side of a larger pillar candle just before taking their seat at the beginning of the wedding ceremony. The candles remain untouched through the ceremony until the bride and the groom have exchanged vows. Then, together, the couple lights the center pillar candle using the flames of both candles that are already burning to represent both sides of their families. They then extinguish the taper candles to symbolize the united flame is stronger than the individual flames.
The Bride and Groom can choose to further personalize the Unity Candle Ceremony by having an instrumental playing in the background or better yet have the wedding officiant narrate the ceremony details. An example of a possible narrative is as follows...The two outside candles have been lit to represent both your lives at this moment. They are two distinct lights, each capable of going their separate ways. As you join now in marriage, there is a merging of these two lights into one light.
As you each take a candle and together light the center one, you will extinguish your own candles, thus letting the center candle represent the union of your lives into one flesh. As this one light cannot be divided, neither shall your lives be divided but a united testimony in a Christian home. May the radiance of this one light be a testimony of your unity in the Lord Jesus Christ.
Over the years, many variations of the unity candle ceremony have developed. Some couples prefer to have the three candles remain lit. A side taper candle for each of them, and the larger center candle for the unity of their new family, This symbolizes their commitment to each other and to a lasting and loving marriage. Some choose to have both mothers and fathers light the taper candles. Also many couples incorporate children into the ceremony by adding a taper candle per child.
Just as there are many varieties of Unity Candle Ceremonies, there are also many varieties of the Unity Candles. One very popular option for a rustic or woodland themed wedding is this handmade Personalized Birch Unity Candle set which features a center candle with wood burned initials of the Bride and Groom in a heart and two taper candles.
A Family Birch Unity Candle set is also available. This set has a separate taper candle holder with the initials of each member of the blended family. Making each person an important part of the ceremony.
No matter how you choose to incorporate the Unity Candle into your wedding it will undoubtedly be one of the most beautiful and memorable parts of your wedding ceremony. ]]>Phase 2-Building Your Vendor Team
Once you’ve done your research, had the important conversations outlined in phase one and have set the foundation for your wedding, it's time to start digging in a little deeper. We highly recommend choosing your wedding venue first, as not only will signing that contract officially set your date, it will also set the tone for many other aspects of your wedding day such as the wedding décor and dress code. Choosing a barn venue for example will certainly set the tone for a rustic décor theme such as birch candle holders, Unity Candle sets and perhaps a beautiful vintage style wedding gown.
Your Venue is booked! Now you can start searching for your other wedding vendors. If you don't have the luxury of time, you’ll want to book all of your pros as soon as you can. Here's a checklist of the vendors you'll likely want to research.
Caterer, Photographer, Videographer, Florist, Officiant, Music (DJ, Band, Ceremony Musicians), Hair Stylist, Makeup Artist, Wedding Cake Baker, Invitations, Transportation, Wedding Dress and Tux retailer, Event Rentals Company, and lighting designer.
Now is also the time to get moving on the rehearsal dinner details. Typically, the groom's family plans the rehearsal dinner, but if that's not applicable to you and your wedding, you'll want to figure out who's putting together this night-before event. Planning a rehearsal dinner is a bit like planning a wedding on a smaller scale, so get started as soon as possible.
You may also want to start researching and planning your honeymoon. Whether you're opting for a small getaway or a full-on honeymoon, choose a destination so you can start researching accommodations and other important honeymoon details.
Should you hire a wedding planner?
One very important decision to make as soon as possible is to decide whether to hire a wedding planner. Not every couple has a budget to hire a planner but if your funds allow it, hiring one will undoubtedly make your whole wedding planning experience much easier. The key is to hire a planner that will accommodate your needs and will prioritize what you want. Be sure to ask around, perhaps a recently married friend may have a wedding planner they can recommend.
Here are some important factors when choosing a wedding planner.
Speaking of making your budget go further, with some ingenuity there are many opportunities to save money on your wedding. Here are a few examples. If you know anyone who has recently married perhaps, they have left over wedding items that they would be more than happy to get off their hands. Craft stores are a great place to find supplies to DIY some of your décor items and they often offer coupons. Also don’t forget to ask your friends and family to help with your DIY crafts. Some of them will surely be happy to help and you may just find they have some craft skills that you never even knew about!
Stay Tuned, Wedding Planning Phase 3 Coming Soon!
Want to stay on track when planning your wedding? Sign up to receive a free copy of The Ultimate Wedding Checklist here.
]]>THE RESEARCH PHASE
If you’re like most woman you have been browsing Pinterest for wedding ideas since you first realized that you had met the man of your dreams but now it’s time to really get down to business. You’ll want to make individual Pinterest boards for each aspect of your wedding like wedding dress ideas, venues, wedding décor ideas and don’t forget a honeymoon destination board.
YOUR WEDDING VISION
After several weeks or months of research you are getting closer to having a vision of what you want your wedding to look like. You have narrowed down a couple of dates (in case your first choice is not available), chosen the members of the wedding party, started working on the guest list and looking into venues. You’ve decided on some general aspects of the wedding such as spring outdoor wedding with a rustic theme and perhaps your color scheme, but you’re not ready to fully commit to venues or vendors until you have a better idea of your wedding budget.
YOUR BUDGET
Now that you have done some cost research it’s time for number crunching and to perhaps have the all-important conversation with your parents and future in-laws to determine if they are willing or able to contribute any funds to your wedding. Once your wedding budget is set, and you may unfortunately come to the realization that certain things on your Pinterest wedding dream boards might not be financially feasible. It is important for both you and your partner to determine your top wedding priorities and which items you are willing to do without.
Although it may not be easy, it is important to try to stay as close to your budget as possible. Stay strong and don’t fall into the trap of being coerced into a purchase you can’t afford. We have all heard the story of the bride-to-be who falls in love with a wedding dress that is way over her budget.
Want to stay on track when planning your wedding? Sign up to receive a free copy of The Ultimate Wedding Checklist here.
Once you’ve completed all these steps in phase one, you’re ready to move on to phase two. Stay tuned Phase two details coming soon.
]]>1. COLORS
Perhaps one of the first decisions when planning a wedding is choosing your wedding colors. Your color choices will be incorporated into just about every aspect of your wedding. Pastels are a popular spring wedding color scheme, but bold, bright colors can also add a beautiful touch to your spring wedding. Here to help you design the color design for your wedding is a list of the Pantone Color Institute’s Spring color choices for 2021.
2. VENUE
With the nicer weather comes more choices in picking a venue for your spring wedding with the additional option of perhaps having an outdoor wedding. Although spring brings warmer weather, it also brings the chance of rain. Remember the saying April showers brings May flowers? Having a tent and setting it up a few days in advance is the best option to ensure your wedding venue area will be dry even if your wedding day turns out to be a rainy day.
3. FLOWERS
Incorporating seasonal flowers to your wedding is a great budget friendly and eco-friendly choice. Depending on where you are located the seasonal choices are many, from peonies, tulips, calla lilies, hellebores, roses, cherry blossoms, zinnias, snap dragons, sweet pea, hyacinths, delphiniums and lilacs.
4. SEATING
Spring is the perfect time to celebrate outside since it’s not typically blazing hot yet. Line up hay bales and cover them with fun quilts or shabby chic blankets for inexpensive and clever outdoor seating. Another seating option is to set up a lounge area using garden furniture for a unique country garden vibe.
5. STYLE
Boho and rustic wedding themes are also complemented by wildflowers and baby’s breath flowers. Whether you add them to simple mason jar vases for your table centerpieces or perhaps hang them on your wedding ceremony seats for a beautiful décor accent.
6. ECO-FRIENDLY
Using natural elements is a perfect option for both indoor and outdoor weddings with a more rustic theme. These eco-friendly Birch Unity Candles and Table number holders add such a beautiful touch.
7. LIGHTING
Although wedding venues have been incorporating different types of lighting in wedding landscapes for some time, they have become even more popular over the last several years especially with outdoor weddings. You can wrap fairy lights around trees, string across courtyards and hang wedding décor items even create a curtain of them.
8. CAKE
One of the most important pieces at any wedding is the wedding cake and floral designs are all the rage for spring weddings. Ask your florist to set aside a few extra flowers that your wedding cake baker can use for decoration — roses, ranunculus, peonies, dahlias, and greenery are all beautiful options. Some wedding cake bakers will incorporate edible flowers to the wedding cake décor. If you don’t want to use actual flowers, sugar or gum paste flowers are also very pretty.
9. COCKTAILS
Refresh thirsty guests by serving up some delicious springy cocktails like mojitos with lime and fresh mint, margaritas with lots of strawberries or cucumber martinis. Add a special touch by freezing edible petals in ice cubes to garnish drinks. If you want to offer a non-alcoholic option and something for kids, offer a fruit water station. Fill several drink jars with ice cubes, water and your choice of fruits, like lemon and lime or watermelon. This is sure to be a big hit.
10. SERVING STATION
Wheelbarrows are great ways to serve bottles of beer and soft drinks. They can be painted to match your color scheme and filled with ice. Add some wooden signs and you are good to go. Slices of lime in a little dish are great for beers and sodas.
For more wedding décor ideas and inspiration from JV Country Creations click here.
]]>So there you have it, 10 beautiful ways to honor you deceased loved ones at your wedding. Hopefully one or two of these ideas will help bring you the comfort of knowing that although your loved one is not with you in person on your special day, they are definitely with you in spirit. No matter how you choose to honor your deceased loved one at your wedding, it is important to focus on the special details they would love and get a kick out of—not the fact that they're gone. Remember to focus on the happy times you had with them and how they would want you to continue to have happy times in your new life as a married couple.
]]>Valentine's Day 2021 is right around the corner, do you know what you're getting him yet? February 14th will be here before we know it, so before it's too late, here is your reminder to start thinking about the perfect Customizable Valentine's gift.for him.
This year most of us have been spending more time than ever at home with our significant others. In a world of social distancing, our partners or spouses have been around more, taken on more roles than ever before and helped us through a crazy year. They deserve a nice Valentine's Day present!
Let's face it, gift giving can be hard! Most adults buy themselves the things that they really need leaving very few ideas on anyone's gift list. So when selecting a Valentine's Day gift for your partner you may have to think outside the box. But don't worry, we've got you covered! Say Happy Valentine's Day with a Customizable Valentine's Day Gift idea that is handmade and personalized, a custom burned birch candle with your initials and anniversary date!
Our products are all handmade in Massachusetts and customizable. We specialize in personalized birch candles and wire gifts that make great conversation pieces for your home. Check out all the Customizable Valentine's Day Gift ideas here and if you don't see exactly what you have in mind, send us a message! We love working on custom orders.
The Receiving Line has been a long time custom for the newlyweds to greet and thank their guests for coming to the wedding and for the guests to congratulate the newlywed couple. One of the key rules for safety during Covid-19 is “Social Distancing”. Instead of the traditional receiving line couples may consider a “gesture line”. In short: no hugs or cheek kisses, but maybe wave, a verbal exchange of congratulations or thank you, and air kisses from a safe distance.
Dancing, perhaps one of the most loved parts of a wedding celebration has recently, been a big NO for Covid-19 weddings. Hopefully with a little resourcefulness dancing will be back. Outdoor weddings mean more room for a larger dance area and social distance dancing. Another idea may be to leave a larger distance between tables to allow people to dance near their tables with people in their own household.
The bouquet toss is a long-time tradition. Instead of having a tight gathering of people to catch the bouquet, perhaps the bride can present the bouquet to a pre-selected person, a sister or maybe a best friend.
Group photos are a fun part of weddings but probably not a safe option for now. Many photographers and videographers now offer the option of a drone to capture some great large group shots.
Another tradition that has seen great change is Bachelorette parties, bachelor parties and Bridal showers. Many Bach parties usually consist of vacation trips to faraway places. Due to travel restrictions, these plans have been forced to be postponed if not cancelled until travel is an easier option. When it comes to Bridal showers an outdoor party with a limited number of guests or perhaps a drive by shower where people drive up, drop off a gift and have a short social distant visit from their car are some alternative options.
Although having to adjust one’s wedding plans may not be the ideal situation, couples still have the control to make their wedding day, and the special occasions leading up to their wedding, beautiful and memorable. Couples should make their wedding their own by incorporating unique personal touches, and décor pieces. A special wedding cake topper, beautiful wedding table number holders, or a custom birch wood candle, are just a few example pieces that can represent their style and personality.
With an open mind and the willingness to compromise couples can still have the wedding of their dreams.
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The story of every birch candle starts the same. We harvest our birch logs from our property in Northern Maine in the summer and fall. Once they are cut we allow them to dry for at least 9 months prior to use. After the drying time is complete, Dad gets to work cutting. He considers the diameter of each log and then decides which type of candle is the best fit. He then cuts and drills each log. After cutting it's my turn to take over with an inspection, quick sanding and fireproofing spray, all before we get to the real FUN part, customizing!
I customize the birch candles using a classic pen style wood-burning tool. Each customization is designed on the computer, printed out and then transferred onto the birch bark using lead paper. I then follow my guide with the burning tool and complete the design by hand. The greatest part of this means that I can burn just about ANY font and ANY svg file onto your candles.
Our original design is what has really become our signature, a heart filled with initials and wedding date. We sell these as a single birch candle and part of our unity sets. While wedding dates are not as guaranteed as they used to be with the onset of covid, many couples are opting for just the initials in the heart. Recently I have added some font designs to the shop with the advent wreath, New Date Same Love corona bride gift candle and last name design.
But the truth is the design possibilities for birch candles is limited only by your imagination. Memorial candle, nursery décor, mantle accent piece, flower vase, dining table centerpiece, event tablescapes, every candle is unique and so much fun to make! Do you have an idea or a design you would like hand-burned onto a birch candle? We want to hear from you and create a one-of-a-kind piece for you! Send us a message to get started on your project now.
See more designs here.
Have these designs sparked an idea for your next custom birch candle? Leave a comment to let us know your favorite projects and what you'd like to see next!
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On a rainy day in 1997 our family drove 7 hours from our home in Seekonk, Massachusetts to a small town in Maine in search of a place in the woods where John could build a family cabin. Janet was in the passenger seat, while 6 year old Vanessa and her two brothers were in the back. Flash forward 23 years, and the entire family has since grown a love for all things rustic. Our cabin is by no means anything fancy, there is no electricity or running water, but it has taught us that the simple things in life are most often the best things in life. Although our lives have changed and the kids have grown, getting to spend time together at the cabin is still one of our favorite things to do.
In 2014, Vanessa got engaged and we knew right away it would be a rustic themed wedding. Together, we spent many hours making crafts for the wedding including birch candle holders, a wire cake topper and a beautiful cedar cupcake stand to name a few. The wedding was on May 2, 2015 in Westport Massachusetts and it was a perfect day. We received so many compliments on the wedding décor that shortly thereafter, we decided to continue our love for crafting together and sell our creations online. On June 2, 2015 we officially opened JV Country Creations and since then we have never looked back.
Even though many things have changed since opening the shop, one thing that has stayed constant is the bond between our mother-daughter duo. Not only do we spend countless hours together crafting and perfecting our shop and products, but we now also have three babies/grandbabies to look after.
Each with our own specialty within the shop, (Vanessa tackles the birch designs, while Janet does the wire creations) we have worked for 5+ years on perfecting our roles within JV Country Creations to ensure that every customer gets the best product and purchasing experience possible. Having been featured in over 2,000 weddings, it is an honor to have the opportunity to work with you in designing products that will help make your wedding day the best day of your life. We hope you enjoy our products as much as we enjoy creating them!
]]>While the coronavirus outbreak might have pushed pause on the entire wedding industry in 2020, many couples were forced to postpone their weddings to 2021, 2022 and beyond.
As expected, 2021 was a record year for weddings. Squeezing 2020’s rescheduled weddings in with already existing 2021 nuptials, and you had lot of couples competing for vendors and venues. This resulted in more and more couples choosing weekday weddings to avoid an even longer delay to their big day.
By now we know Covid-19 isn't going anywhere soon. Many feel that big weddings and gatherings are still not safe. Because of this, smaller (therefore safer and easier to plan) weddings will likely be the norm for some time to come. Incorporating guests virtually will become a large part of the planning process. Planners will need to go through all the options with their couples to ensure they have the right streaming software setup. Couples can also work with their videography team to make sure high-quality video from the entire wedding is streamed for their guests.
Not only are couples facing a different look for their wedding, they also have a new set of health and safety standards for guests and event partners. Face masks and hand sanitizing stations will likely be the norm for sometime. Outdoor weddings are expected to surge in popularity as couples follow social distancing advice and try to keep their guests safe. Outdoor weddings provide a lower-risk environment and allow for the appropriate social distancing which will also help people feel at ease and able to enjoy themselves.
Another way weddings may look quite different is in the seating arrangements. You may expect to see fewer people sitting at each table. Couples could go even further by choosing to only sit guests at tables with members of their own household. Although fewer guests per table will increase the cost of an event with more tables and linens being required, most couples feel the additional cost is worth the wellbeing of their loved ones.
Although no one can be sure exactly what the future will bring with weddings, one thing for sure is that love conquers all and one way or another couples will get married. It may not be the wedding they always dreamed of, but it will be special, and it will be a wedding they will never forget.
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Since the Coronavirus pandemic has forced so many couples to move their wedding to next year or beyond, the micro wedding is the star of 2020. If you are an engaged couple that still wants to get married in 2020, the micro-wedding is for you. So many couples are choosing to have two ceremonies, a small intimate "micro-wedding" or "mini-mony" and then a larger wedding of their dreams in the future when social distancing restrictions are finally a thing of the past.
Micro weddings, also known as mini-monies, are generally attended by less than 25 guests, all who are the most important people in the couple's lives. With such a small group, it helps allow everyone to keep their distance but still celebrate with the new Mr and Mrs. Could a micro wedding be your solution to make the best of a difficult situation? Get married now with a small group of guests, then celebrate later with everyone you love at a larger wedding.
"we are all already home, so why not have a micro-wedding in your backyard!"
The most popular micro wedding choice is the backyard wedding because well, we are all already home! But also, hosting in your own backyard gives you the ability to build the venue the way you want it. While it seems like wedding planning for a micro-wedding would be easy, there are still elements you may forget or find overwhelming which would make having a wedding planner a huge help to take the stress off you.
"a wedding planer will save you a HUGE amount of stress"
Having the wedding in your backyard will instantly save you on the site fee, but there are still plenty of other expenses like renting tables, chairs, lighting, tents and heaters or fans. While we all hope for sunny weather that is not always the case. A tent is highly recommended not only for the possibility of rain but it will also provide much-needed shelter on a very sunny day. Another way to help deal with weather factors is to rent a heater or fan depending on the conditions. If it’s hot serve your guests iced tea or lemonade and place paper fans on each chair. If it’s chilly offer blankets or shawls and serve hot chocolate or hot apple cider.
Many people think of BBQ food when they think of backyard weddings, but the food choices are really up to you. Depending on your budget you can have food as simple as hot dogs and hamburgers with corn on the cob or as extravagant as filet mignon and roasted vegetables.
An altar set up to designate your ceremony area will help your space feel more like a wedding venue. Consider having an arbor of some sort. This could be as easy as draping fabric over a branch of a large tree or attaching lights and a beautiful array of flowers to a birch wood arbor. Place your chairs in a circle in front of the alter to give a more intimate feel while saying your vows. Be sure to check Pinterest for hundreds of ideas proving the sky is the limit when designing a backyard wedding.
A separate lounge area will elevate your cocktail hour or reception and can easily be achieved with outdoor furniture you already own or by creatively repurposing indoor furniture. You can even cluster mismatched furniture in various textures or tones for a more eclectic take.
You don't need a ton of decorations when you have an outdoor wedding because the natural scenery is so nice! Consider planting some extra flowers and adding several planters. You can also easily make affordable decorations to hang from trees, chairs, etc.
Two very important contributors to the mood of a backyard wedding are music and lighting. You need lighting so that the party will go on into the night and perhaps, add a little romance. Music adds atmosphere so be sure to choose the perfect reception playlist to complement the ambiance you are looking for.
Regardless of the number of guests at your wedding, it’s still a momentous occasion that your going to want photographed so remember to budget for a professional photographer. If some of your friends have recently married ask them for recommendations. When considering a photographer be sure to ask for references and a portfolio to ensure they are a good fit.
There's nothing better than some old-fashioned lawn games at an outdoor wedding. Set up a couple of corn hole boards, a giant Jenga game or maybe a game of ladder golf to keep your guests busy. They can play while they wait for you to finish your photos and have a cocktail.
Whether you have decided to make a backyard micro wedding your one and only celebration or you plan on having a bigger wedding in the future, remember to make the most of what you have. Your wedding day is absolutely a special occasion, but its also just the beginning of your journey and you still have forever to write the rest of your love story.
Cheers!
]]>Have a Commitment Ceremony-Although it might not be legal, a commitment ceremony can signify your wedding date without the formal ceremony. Celebrate with just you and your partner or invite just a few extra guests. You could get dressed up and recite your vows, dance to your wedding song, exchange gifts, or even light your unity candle.
Have a mini Ceremony-This one is legal and is something many couples are opting for during the pandemic. Hold the ceremony which can include an officiant and whatever the total number of people that your state guidelines are allowing, just don't forget to follow social distancing. Many elements of your original wedding plans can be used in this ceremony just in a much smaller version. Then, when you can finally gather with friends and family again, throw the party or reception you originally envisioned—and bonus, you'll already be married when you do! Don't forget to send your guests a Change the Date card!
Have your cake and eat it too-So many bakeries would love your business right now! Support your local shop during these tough times by ordering a smaller version of your wedding cake to enjoy on what was supposed to be your wedding day. Don't forget to order the cake in the same flavor of your wedding cake and indulge!
Host Virtual Drinks with Your Wedding Party-Share the recipe for your signature drink with your wedding party, family, and friends, send out a Zoom link, and plan a Virtual happy hour. Make sure everyone comes prepared with a toast (or two) to keep things fun.
Have a Date Night In-Support local businesses by ordering your favorite takeout and planning a date night on your original wedding date. Make it extra special by popping a bottle of your favorite champagne. While you might not have envisioned celebrating your wedding with takeout it'll create a special memory you'll never forget.
Indulge in a movie marathon- Snuggle up on the couch to watch some upbeat wedding-themed movies. Father of the Bride, Wedding Crashers, The Wedding Singer, and Bridesmaids are just a few classics. While there really is no movie to describe this crazy 2020 wedding season we are having, sometimes a good laugh is all you need to have a new perspective.
Treat Each Other To A Pre-Wedding Gift – You were probably thinking about buying each other a little something for your wedding day, so why not agree to treat this like a special occasion it is and get each other a little gift for this day also. The coronavirus pandemic is one for the history books, and planning a wedding during it is no joke, so try for a COVID keepsake that will help you remember these crazy times.
Remember, although your wedding plans may not have turned out the way you imagined, you can still have the wedding of your dreams eventually and it will be beautiful. The silver lining? You can celebrate two anniversaries each year!
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Right now, this pandemic has everything up in the air, from the date you can get married, to whether the groomsmen's suits will be ready, to how many guests can come. Here are a few things to keep in mind while adjusting your wedding plans that will still allow you to make the most of your upcoming nuptials.
Downsizing your wedding guest list.
The general consensus in our area of Southern New England where we have been hit pretty hard, is that late summer weddings will be limited to less than 50 people. So, if you have decided to go ahead with your summer wedding with a downsized guest list of 50, one of the most difficult tasks will be figuring out how to cut your wedding guest list. Downsizing it—say from 250 people to just 50—may seem impossible. However, it is absolutely doable—and if you handle the situation tactfully, you won’t hurt any feelings in the process.
Instead of worrying about who you should cut from your wedding guest list, think about who must be included. Start with your parents and immediate families, then your wedding party members (plus spouses and significant others!) Now, how many spots are left? If you are able to accommodate your closest relatives and friends, add them. Build on this initial list, adding loved ones until you hit the max number of guests you can accommodate. If you and your partner are having trouble making decisions, ask your parents or siblings for help.
Many times, its acceptable to invite more guests than they’re able to accommodate, expecting that some of the guests will RSVP no. But if there is a strict guest limit like this, it’s best to stick to that number of invites as well. Remember you have revamped your guest list to include the closest people in your lives, meaning it is more likely that all invited guests will attend.
Once you have decided who makes the final cut, you will need to share the news with your previously invited guests. If possible, we recommend reaching out to your guests by phone or perhaps e-mail. If calling all your guests feels overwhelming, ask your parents and in-laws to help out. Be honest and polite, while simply telling them the situation. Everyone knows of the “new normal” the pandemic has brought upon us, so everyone should .
One way to include as many guests as you like is to livestream your ceremony or host a Virtual Wedding. Ask a friend to help set it up and then share all of the details and links to everyone you want to be a part of the celebrations! If livestreaming isn’t your thing, you could take advantage of your wedding hashtag. Ask your invited guests to share photos and videos on social media so that loved ones can follow along with the event as it happens.
Remember that although it may be a new date or a new plan, it’s still the same love. In the end, it is all about marrying the person you are going to spend the rest of your life with. This is a huge day in your life no matter the size of your wedding celebration. Someday when you look back you will be able to say your wedding was part of history because this Pandemic is definitely going to be one for the history books.
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This is a HUGE decision that comes with many emotions. Option 1 would to forego the vast majority of your original wedding plans but keep the date. In most situations, you can still get married on your original date with a ceremony that only includes you and your spouse, the officiant, and perhaps a couple of your very closest family (Keeping in mind that states are constantly changing the rules on limits to group gatherings). Once getting married “in the books” you could then plan to do a reception for some time in the future or even forgo your original wedding plans altogether.
If your date is still a little way out and on the border of needing to be rescheduled, you could choose to move forward with planning as scheduled, and then if things, fortunately, settle in time, you will be all set and among the lucky group! On the other hand, if you do have to move your date, at least all the details will be set and you can take a much-deserved breather before the new wedding date!
The other option (maybe the more popular of the two) is, of course, choosing a new date for your postponed wedding, but this is NOT a simple task. If this is the route you need to go, keep in mind that you are not alone. There are tons of couples doing the same thing! The best course of action will be to act quickly and ask each of your vendors as well as your venue for their remaining available dates in a certain period for your new date. Inquire with each individual vendor about their policies on rescheduling and canceling if absolutely necessary. Aim to be as flexible as possible to ensure you can find a new date using your original vendors to avoid cancellation fees. Many wedding vendors are willing to work with couples because they truly empathize with your situation and want you to still have a beautiful wedding day.
You’ll want to take a close look at your contracts to see what could happen in the case of a cancellation, especially on short notice, or reach out to the vendors to see if they are able to waver from their original policies for this unique situation. Canceling your event completely could really cause some financial pain, so do whatever you can to reschedule with as many of your original vendors as possible. If you can find one date that overlaps the most with your vendor team, you should try to lock it down ASAP.
If you have already ordered customized details for your wedding with the date on them such as invitations, signs, cocktail napkins, favors, or unity candles, we suggest reaching out to the company directly to see if they are willing to work out a deal. Many shops like JV Country Creations, who specialized in customized wedding décor, are working with each bride to provide solutions.
Everyone is aware that the status of this Pandemic is rapidly changing, and your wedding guests may already be expecting some sort of announcement from you. A great way to keep guests informed is to update your wedding website with a statement or share an announcement of your wedding changes via social media or even a new "save the date" in the mail. You could also send an email to your guest list.
Confirm that each guest has received your message by asking them to respond acknowledging your note. You’ll also want to make sure you have communicated the changes with anyone who was planning to travel, especially if it’s short notice.
Another disappointing reality is that you will likely have to cancel or reschedule your honeymoon plans if you were planning to travel within the next few months. Be sure to reach out to your airlines and hotels or other accommodations to cancel your travel arrangements.
Most companies are being generous with their policies at the moment, in light of this unprecedented situation and many airlines are being more flexible with their typical policies as well. Of course, this all depends on the type of tickets you bought, so you will have to reach out to find out for sure.
While it probably wasn’t your responsibility to plan the events, your bachelorette party and bridal shower could be affected as well. Remember that communication is key during any change of plans. So keep in touch with those who were involved in those events to give your input on how you’d like to handle postponing or canceling each event since the timing will severely depend on the new wedding date you select.
As difficult as it can be to reschedule a wedding, it is so important to stay positive and know that you are going to have an incredible day no matter when or how it takes place. This is such a personal decision and each couple needs to decide based on their own circumstances and family situation. At the end of that day, you will be married to the person you love and will be starting a beautiful life together. Not to mention the crazy story you will be able to tell your future children about having to re-schedule your wedding due to the global pandemic of 2020!
Stay safe everyone!
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