South Dakota Wedding Style » ADVICE

South Dakota Wedding Invitation Importance

admin — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:00:35 +0000

A few months back, I was in a meeting with a client. We were chatting about wedding plans and ideas. I asked, “Have you made your invitation selection?” The brides response was, “Oh, we are doing something cheap, everyone throws them away anyways.” As a wedding professional, and someone who whole-heartedly enjoys weddings, I was crushed with this response. The words “CHEAP” and “THROW AWAY” are two words that should never go together when discussing wedding invitations. I smiled politely and responded with this, “You are spending all this time and energy on the ‘feel’ and ‘ambiance’ of your wedding ceremony and reception, why wouldn’t you give the same consideration to your invitations? Don’t they set the tone for your entire event?” The long pause and “thinking” look on the brides face told me I had made a valid point, a point every bride should reflect on.

A wedding invitation is the first sneak peak into your big day. It is the prelude before the big performance.

The dictionary states the PRELUDE is:

1. An introductory performance, event, or action preceding a more important one; a preliminary or preface
2. A piece or movement that serves as an introduction to another section or composition and establishes the key, such as one that precedes a fugue, opens a suite, or precedes a church service.

When you look at this way, doesn’t it validate the importance of the invitation? Knowing the role it plays, why would you throw something together, keeping it cheap?

The invitation should do a handful of things. The most important, share all the details of the big day. Your names, dates, times, locations (ceremony & reception), directions, etc. If you work with a professional wedding planner or wedding printer, they will guide you on these selections. Next, it should mimic the style you plan to implement on your wedding day. If your invitation is formal and carries traditional elements, that should be carried through to your ceremony/reception. Look at this way, if your guest opens your invitation and says, “Wow, this is fancy”, then they should have the same response when they arrive at your ceremony/reception. Finally, this one is a must, ask for a proof (or make one if you are doing them yourself) and ask multiple people to read through the invitation to assure all is spelled correctly (as well as dates are correct, locations, etc.). I once received a wedding invitation and the word “love” was spelled “lvoe”. I was mortified for the couple and it made me question their level of commitment to the wedding; if they didn’t care to spell check then do they really care about getting married?
Classic spelling error from the movie MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING. Toula (the bride) has no idea her wedding invitations have been ordered (by her mother without her approval). Not only have then been ordered, they are all printed done and ready to go. Everyone is reading the invitations for the first time and an error is caught.

Ian (Toula’s groom): My parents’ names are Rodney and Harriet.
Toula (bride): [horrified, reading the inviation] Oh God, Rodney and HARRY!
Nick (Toula’s brother): We didn’t notice, so maybe they won’t.

In general, brides look at invitations as a “budget-eater” but instead, they should be allotted a reasonable budget. I have heard brides say, “these invitations are going to cost me an arm and a leg!” Really? You are willing to spend $25 a plate for meals, $23 a bottle for wine and even $1700 for the wedding dress of your dreams…but you won’t estimate $5.00 per invitation? Do the leg work, do the research, and find something that encompasses all the important elements of your wedding day…and remember, keep the words “CHEAP” and “THROW-AWAY” out of your invitation vocabulary!

Happy Planning!

Tina is a South Dakota resident with many ties and years in the SD wedding industry. Tina brings her passion for weddings to South Dakota Wedding Style in her monthly editorials and Do-it-Yourself Project Tutorials.

Personalize your South Dakota Wedding

admin — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 14:00:51 +0000

Celebrities may have the capability of changing or influencing wedding industry trends, but what stands true to the core are weddings are about personality, about the couple and why their love is what it is. We as a bridal nation are setting the tone and trend for what is the next big thing to come! Think about it, all it took was one couple to do a surprise hip-hop dance on their first husband and wife dance and the world went nuts! So where does the personality really fall at a wedding? Everywhere when you really spend sometime observing. It goes into the big things, the small things and everything in between.

Let’s start with the colors. Yes, we have all been to weddings that use the time of year as influence on color and décor; but we have also been to weddings where the color means so much more. I was at a wedding recently where the colors were purple and pink (simple enough), purple was the brides favorite but the pink was to honor her grandmother who had lost her battle with breast cancer (I know, a tear jerker through and through). When you are selecting your wedding colors, by all means, pick what you like! I do encourage you to take the time to really understand the color (maybe even look up their meanings, you might be surprised to find a deeper influence on your wedding décor and plans)!

Next up on the potential “personality” wedding chart, the ceremony. Ceremonies are the perfect time to load up on the couple’s personality! It seems, no matter what, some how some way, something special sneaks into everyone’s ceremony. We have all seen the crazy dances into and out of the church. One of my all time favorites was at a friends wedding ceremony. Traditional in all the sense of traditional, until the couple kissed and walked out, blasting into the speakers was the famous song from Shrek 2, Accidently in Love! Why was it so cute? The couple watched the movie on one of their first dates (and little did they know they were going to fall in love and get hitched)! Perfect for them in every way!

The reception is really the big chance for personality to be busting at the seams! Couples can show their personality in their entrance, in their video, in their thank you or speeches, tons of opportunity. So what really stands out? What makes it noteworthy? When it is about who you are! I had a bride recently tell me they weren’t doing a wedding cake at their reception, they were doing packages of powdered white donuts. Why you ask? It is the couple’s favorite (and who doesn’t love those little what powdered donuts, yummy)! Another couple had shared they weren’t doing what was considered the “normal” wedding video. Instead, they had complied pictures and videos from their grandparents and parents weddings and were surprising everyone with the collage of memories! I hope their favors are packs of tissues (everyone will need one)!

Trends will be trends and what is in “style” will only be in “style” for that time. What really stands out is you (as in the two of you). You make your south dakota wedding day what it is! Take the time to personalize it in a big way or small way (or everything in between)!
Happy Planning!

Tina Beal

South Dakota Wedding Advice – Host Bar

Style — Wed, 11 May 2011 12:00:15 +0000

We have touched on this subject muliple times in the past year with several different etiquette posts, however, we feel that it is important to do so again! In order to reduce expenses, many South Dakota couples are opting for what is known as a “cash bar” at the wedding reception, also called the “no-host bar”.

Brides, as well as prospective wedding guests, often wonder about the appropriateness of having a cash bar at a wedding.In the world of wedding etiquette, the cash bar is the ultimate no-no. Therefore, if observing complete social correctness is of importance to you, you’d better put this notion out of your head.

The main reason people contemplate the cash bar for their wedding receptions is obviously the issue of cost. You should realize that this will probably be apparent to your wedding guests if you choose a cash bar. Realize too that people may mumble under their breath that it looks “cheap” and there likely will be some discussion among some guests who will conclude that you couldn’t afford an open bar. As many guests may be accustomed to the cash bar concept, please remember that you are hosting this event and as you wouldn’t ask your guests to pay for their meal, you shouldn’t ask them to pay for their drinks.

One thing to consider when budgeting for the host bar, is to eliminate the liquor and simple provide wine, beer and soda. As these usually cost less than a mixed cocktail. You could also serve signature mixed cocktails for cocktail hour and wine for dinner. Again, keeping with the beer and wine combination for the rest of the evening.

South Dakota Reception Idea – Lounge Seating

Style — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 13:00:11 +0000

A growing trend for any South Dakota wedding reception is to have a lounge or seating area for guests to sit, visit and enjoy the reception festivities. You could include seating within cocktail tables at cocktail hour, or a seperate lounge area at the reception facility for guests to chat and break away from the dance. Some Sioux Falls weddings have had an after-party event following the reception which will include lounge furniture, detailed lighting and drapery for a more club feel. For an outdoor event, haybales covered with quilts and pillows pair perfectly with the South Dakota scenery. Lounge furniture can be made from beds, benches, mattresses or old couches. There are also Sioux Falls rental companies that have lounge furniture available, which you can find on our vendor listings above. Here are some great ideas for incorporating lounge seating into your South Dakota reception decor.

Hay Bales, White Cocktail Hour, Bed and Club Room

SD Wedding Ceremony – Unity Candle Alternatives

Style — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 13:53:05 +0000

Looking for an alternative to the traditional unity candle? We have some great ideas to spice up your South Dakota wedding ceremony!

Sand Ceremony – This is perfect for a destination wedding or blending of families. You could use very unique vases, nesting vases or containers that match the ceremony details. The Unity Sand Ceremony represents the coming together (or unity) of the bride and the groom, and their two families, to form a single, indivisible whole.

Wax Beads – Similar to the Unity Sand Ceremony, this is the mixing of different color wax beads to create a candle in which you can burn in remembrance of your wedding vows.

God’s Knot/Cord of Three Strands – “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” This passage from Ecclesiastes 4:12 illustrates the importance of Christian companionship. Two Christians that are bound together in Christ are stronger than the individuals themselves. We believe that Christian marriage is about more than the union of one man and one woman. The Bible teaches us that God performs a miracle in our marriage, uniting us together in a covenant relationship with Him as one. The Cord of Three Strands is a symbol of that sacred union created on your wedding day. Use colorful ribbons or rope for this uniting ceremony tradition.

Handfasting - Handfasting is the tradition of lightly binding the hands of a couple together using a cord, rope, ribbons, a scarf, tartan or strips of fabric. It is meant to signify a couples coming together as “One”. Whatever it’s original intention, it has become a popular new tradition for today’s couples seeking new and Spiritual ways to honor their love.

Chemistry Inspired – This would be perfect for a “Pure Chemistry” themed wedding ceremony. Maybe you met the love of your life in science class or is one of you a science teacher? For this unique unity ceremony, you’ll mix two chemicals to create a chemical reaction. The easiest is mixing for a glowing color or bubbling effect. Use test tubes for the chemicals and a beaker for the mixing…

Dutch Tradition – All you need is a wooden box, bottle of wine and 2 wine glasses. Then write a letter to your significant other explaining their best qualities and why you fell in love. Then seal them in envelopes and put them in the box. During the ceremony the mothers, groom and the bride nail the box shut. If the marriage ever comes to a point where one or both of you wants to throw in the towel, open the box, drink the wine, and read the letters and make your decision following.

Planting a Tree - This is a perfect ritual for any outdoor South Dakota wedding ceremony. The symbolism behind the planting of a tree is that together you will have to nurture this tree, just like your marriage.

Watering a Plant- Using a fun jar, filled with soil, pour into a potted plumeria tree or plant and then water together with a small watering can, symbolizing the roots of yourt relationship and the growth that was sure to come with the nurturing of your new marriage. The love plant, now in your home, serves as a daily reminder of the vows you made to each other.

Tree Ceremony, Cord of Three Strands and Handfasting

Cake Design Trends

Style — Fri, 25 Feb 2011 17:25:25 +0000

Trend 1: Mixed Shapes

Say au revoir to the classic stacked square or round wedding cake. For a truly modern look, couples are going for cakes with with added shape. For a classic cake with a twist, have your cake baker make a three-tiered round cake finished off with a petal-shaped bottom layer. Or, mix-and-match square and round for a bold and funky look.

Trend 2: Tons of Texture

Cake designers are experimenting with allover texture. A big idea: frosting embossed with unique designs, such as the motif from your wedding invitation or the lace from your dress. Also consider a white-one-white cake with simple allover buttercream dots, or a pleated design in your wedding day colors.

Trend 3: Bold Graphic Flowers

Flowers will always be a classic, but trendy to-be-weds and cutting-edge cake designers are rethinking floral cake add-ons by going beyond the classic cascade. The most of-the-moment cakes are accented with supersized blooms — think anemones, dahlias, and mums. Have them clustered on the first tier for a showstopping topper or used as bold accents on each and every tier.

Trend 4: Creative Cake Toppers

These days, the cheesy bride and groom cake topper just doesn’t cut it. Instead, cake jewelry, such as floral pins and heirloom brooches; chocolate molds with your monogram or wedding day motif; and antique cake toppers, like the ones your parents used on their cake, are making their way to the tops of cake tiers. If you’re looking for something a bit more funky, consider a bride and groom on a bicycle cake topper, or a kitschy topper with two love birds.

Trend 5: Calligraphed Cakes

Pretty scrollwork and delicate design isn’t just for stationery. The most experienced cake designers are turning out cakes with beautiful designs, reminiscent of the most formal wedding invitations imaginable. The key to a stunning scrollwork cake is in the color — this design works best with light hues and little contrast. Choose a light blue fondant base for the cake and have your cake baker add scrollwork in white. Or, go for an ivory cake with light brown frosting. While you’re at it, have your baker add sweet nothings to the your cake, like “love,” and “promise” in the same scroll-like style.

Wedding Tradition – Grooms Cake

Style — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 20:59:45 +0000

The Groom’s Cake is a tradition that was prevalent in early American ceremonies, but seems to have fallen from favor in most contemporary weddings. The groom’s cake was usually dark (e.g., chocolate) to contrast with the bride’s cake. The groom’s cake appeared at the reception along with the wedding cake. The origin of this tradition is unclear. Some believe it was to be served by the groom, with a glass of wine, to the bridesmaids. Others believe it was to be saved and subsequently shared with friends after the honeymoon. Today, most grooms cakes are made in honor of the groom and are designed to represent a hobby, past-time or career. Here are some samples of neat grooms cakes…

Credits: Motorcycle, Man Cave, Fish, Armadillo, Coors Light, Rock Climbing and Tree Stump

Edible Wedding Favor Ideas

Style — Sat, 22 Jan 2011 00:34:36 +0000

Family-friendly

Package a collection of family recipes in a small box with your names and wedding date printed on the back.

Candy Bar

Give out Chinese take-out boxes or small kraft paper bags, stamped with your new monogram, and let guests fill up their own with sugary sweets of their choice — from Old-fashioned button candy to colorful gumdrops, chocolates to gourmet jelly beans — from a penny candy cart.

Wine Connoisseur

Send guests home with mini wine bottles of the same vintage served with dinner and adorned with a personalized label. Spend a little extra and top off each bottle with a silver or crystal wine stopper.

Hometown Pride

Hometown goods such as locally baked cookies, South Dakota inspired goods, candies, or anything sweet that originated in the city where you’ll wed always make memorable favors.

Lakeside Inspired

Saltwater taffy is not only fitting for a summer wedding by the water, it will also make a colorful statement at your reception. Pack taffy into cellophane bags and add a monogram sticker and ribbon for a nicely packaged takeaway treat.

Something Sweet

Send guests home with a jar of honey from a local farm, pinned with a personalized tag saying “Meant to Bee” or “How Sweet it is to Bee Loved by You”

Coffee Lovers

Gourmet chocolate-covered coffee beans packaged in cello bags or patterned organza bags will give guests an end-of-the-evening boost.

Baked with Love

Mini cupcakes — made to look like a part of your wedding cake — are the perfect treat. Get cupcake boxes and let guests package them up or enjoy them right there on the spot.

Seeds of Love

Give out salted sunflower seeds, or roasted pumpkin seeds packaged in tiny tins or bags, and personalized with your monogram and a thank-you.

Credits: Wine Bottles, Cupcakes, Candy Buffet, Taffy, Tins and Jam

Bridesmaids Gift Ideas

Style — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 00:34:16 +0000

Bridesmaid Gifts

We’ve compiled a useful bridesmaid gifts guide to steer you through the gift-giving process. Your attendants will surely appreciate your thoughtfulness!

They have done so much for you, not only as a part of your wedding party but also as a friend and confidant over the years. How to even begin to say thanks? Start by presenting your wedding attendants with heartfelt gifts to express your gratitude.

Bridesmaid Gifts – What to Spend

Consider both your budget and the amount that each bridesmaid must spend to be in your wedding. In the end, it’s always the thought that counts, but giving movie passes may seem a tad ungrateful if your ‘maids had to shell out $300 each for those couture bridesmaid dresses you insisted upon. Get something that lets your attendants know how much you appreciate them. Generally, spending $50–$150 each is a good amount.

When to Give Bridesmaid Gifts

You can present the gifts during any private moment with your ‘maids. Many brides give them during the bridesmaid’s luncheon or tea. You can also hand them out at the rehearsal dinner, when your closest friends and family are gathered together. Consider presenting them along with a toast, thanking them for their support and friendship over the years.

Bridesmaid Gift Ideas

Spa certificates: Or plan a trip to the spa, and treat everyone to a massage. Your ‘maids will appreciate the special pampering.
Personalized picture frames: Including an individual photo of you with each bridesmaid.
Jewelry: It can be something to wear at the wedding, but also try to choose something they will wear again. You want a gift they will enjoy that will often remind them of you.
Shawls and wraps: Give them in the wedding colors so they can use them to stay warm the day of. Consider fur or fake fur stoles if you’re planning a winter wedding.
Makeup: Have their makeup done for the wedding, then purchase a few items for them to keep. They will feel fabulous for the big day and will also have something to take with them that they picked out.
Mixed CDs: Full of tunes that hold special meaning, a great extra that can add a nice touch to another gift.
Monogrammed totes: Can’t decide on one thing? Give a fun canvas bag and fill it with several of the great ideas listed above.

Credits: Shawl, Canvas Bag, Necklace and Frame www.elegala.com

South Dakota Wedding Idea – Address Guest Book

admin — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 14:46:44 +0000

A great alternative to a traditional guest book is to use an address book. To make it even better, look for an address book that has space for birthdays.

We recommend finding an address book that has refillable pages so you can keep it updates throughout life. There are plenty of styles of address books to choose from. You can choose one to match your wedding theme:

(Source – Amazon.com CR Gibson)

Or go for a more traditional book:

(Source – Amazon.com CR Gibson)

Of course, the best guest book is a used guest book! A guest book attendant who will encourage people to fill out their information will help ensure you don’t miss anybody.