Cupcakes, Cookies, and Pie, Oh My!

The wedding cake: seen by most as one of THE focal points of the wedding reception (and a tasty one at that!). As appealing as wedding cakes are, not everyone starts drooling at the sight of a rich vanilla cake or even a three-tiered whimsical masterpiece. Cakes as the wedding dessert of choice have become the traditional pick, and even with the many options they can borderline the mundane. So, for those of you looking to veer off the typical eating path, even just slightly, here are some options to consider for your upcoming nuptials:


Pie in the Sky

 

With dozens of delicious flavors to choose from, there is a pie to satisfy almost everyone of your guests: vegan, meringue, chocolate, fruit filled, cream, etc. You can choose to have assorted pies on tiered cake stands or a buffet-style 'pie' table flanked with flowers, candles, or whatever form of decoration you choose. An added bonus is that pies are less costly than cakes.

Cupcakes Galore


Who doesn’t enjoy a cupcake? This treat is becoming quite the popular confectionery at weddings. Cupcakes can be arranged on a stand, stacked together to create a cupcake cake, and even spell out your wedding date. And if you choose to have a variety of cupcake options, your guests are more likely to find the cupcake that satisfy their sweet tooth. To give each cupcake a personal flair, how about personalizing each individual cupcake with its own special design, cupcake topper, flower….it’s up to you. When it comes to presentation and variety, the possibilities are endless.

Cake Pops


If you love a good wedding cake but want to put a twist on it, why not incorporate the absolutely adorable cake pops in the sweet portion of your reception. These bite size cake balls on sticks make for perfect finger treats. They’re just cute and sweet enough to tempt even those guests vowing to stay away. Simply put, they take the cake! .


Cookie, Cookie, Cookies


When you think of wedding sweets, cookies may not seem the go-to revolutionary and unique treat. But if you love a great cookie, it may be a good idea to share that love affair with your guests. You can arrange a colorful display of assorted cookie options that look as appealing as the cookies are tasty. For something a little different, have a giant gourmet cookie cake. You'd be surprised how a cookie can be transformed to fit your wedding. Never underestimate the power of a cookie.
 

Doughnuts

Mmmmm, donuts….at a wedding? It feels weird putting doughnuts and weddings in the same sentence let alone trying to picture them as a match made in heaven. But you have to admit, it makes your mouth water, doesn’t it? You can choose from a wide variety of doughnuts and mix and match them to create the ultimate doughnut cake.




Whether you’re looking to surprise your guests with something off-the-wall or simply compliment your wedding cake, consider having these treats at your wedding.

(Photo Credits: Brosnan Photographic, Weddingcollections, Bakerella, Eleni NYC, Wedding Bee, Budget Bride, Dog N Bird, East Side Bride, Yum Sugar, The Knot)

New Take on the Unity Candle Tradition

We’ve all seen it done before: the officiant says some words on two lives coming together and then the bride and groom each take a lit candle from their respective family candle and together light a "unity candle." The unity candle ceremony holds great meaning, symbolizing two families coming together and two individuals becoming one ‘unit.’ The problem is, nowadays this particular ceremony has become more of a routine custom and mostly goes unnoticed.

For those of you who want a unity ceremony at your wedding but one that will hold more personal significance, try putting a twist on the unity candle ceremony. Here are two alternative ideas that will get you thinking of how to incorporate the unity ceremony in a way that will make a more memorable impression at your upcoming nuptial.


Ring a Bell

An old wedding superstition regarding bells was that ringing bells at the ceremony would ward off evil spirits intent on wrecking havoc on the newlywed couple’s bliss. The bells were also thought to bring good fortune to the couple. Although this superstition has faded into the past, bells are still rung as a celebration of the couple's love, happiness, and union. 

A great way of incorporating the wedding bell tradition into your unity ceremony is by ringing bells. To start off the ceremony, the officiant can explain to your guests the symbolism of the wedding bell and walk them through the process: the bride and groom will each have a bell in hand and then after tying them with a bow, they will proceed to ring the bell together. If possible, another option is to ring the bell at the venue. This will represent the couple's commitment to work together to maintain their love through the good and the bad. After the wedding day, the bells can be placed in the wedded couple's home and whenever there is an argument, one of them can ring the bells, reminding them both of their wedding day bliss and their vow to work through the bad times, together.


Plant It Together


The planting of a tree sapling or a seedling of choice represents the start of your new life as a wedded couple. The planting ceremony works great for those who choose to have an outdoor wedding. To avoid a mess, have the sapling or seedling potted beforehand and two small hand shovels with a small scoop of soil in each. And during the planting ceremony, simply slide the scoop of soil into the pot. Another option is to just water the seedling during the planting ceremony.

This will be a constant reminder that like a plant in order for the couple’s love to stay alive and grow stronger, they will need to nurture it constantly and consistently. And as the couple works together to cultivate their relationship they will grow stronger in each other. For those who are passionate about the environment and love nature, this ceremony will hold an added meaning.



Whether you choose to include the above options in your wedding or come up with your own tradition, make sure your unity ceremony holds personal significance for you and your groom.


(Photo credits:  Shoponline2011.com, Illustrationsource.com, Micah Dahlberg Photography, 2000 Dollar Wedding)   

Food Trucks: Wedding Craze!?! or Just Crazy?

Food Truck: A new wedding trend that is catching some speed in 2011.

100layercake.com

Whether it is used as a catering alternative during cocktail hour, the wedding after party, or even (gasp!) the main course, food trucks are popping up at weddings and special events. This may come as a surprise since food trucks used to conjure the image of greasy food and workers with questionable hygiene - not anymore. With the increasing popularity of The Great Food Truck Race on the Food Network, gourmet food trucks are becoming more than just an LA thing.  People are starting to take notice and are incorporating them in a big way on their big day.
 

Associated Press

For those looking for something different and unique at their weddings, using food trucks to cater their event is an option to consider (seriously). They offer a wide range of food choices from tacos, escargot, waffles, gourmet ice cream, cupcakes — the hardest part may be narrowing down your options. With food trucks, you can go for casual food options are something more upscale. The concept is quirky and fun. This tasty novelty can be a great talking piece and makes for an interesting photo op.

Jihan Abdalla Photography via Wedding Chicks

The idea of using food trucks at weddings or any special event could seem a little bit too off kilter for most. In fact, as interesting as the concept sounds on paper, it may not be a practical choice for every wedding or event. Even if you don't think food trucks will work for your big day, you have to admit, they sure look like a lot a fun!

Please be Seated

Often times while planning people use the words escort cards and place cards interchangeably.  However, they serve two totally different purposes within your wedding or special event.   Take a few moments to discover what their differences . 

                                         (Preston Bailey)

Escort cards -  Most often set-up outside the main ballroom of an event and direct guests to their assigned table.  The escort card will list a guest's name and the number/name.  The cards are usually listed in alphabetical order most commonly by last name.  For more formal events  you would list the name with the respective titles (i.e. Mr. & Mrs. John Doe) for informal events you would list only the first names (i.e. John & Jane Doe).  The escort card is the most common option used at weddings and special events.

                                         (http://www.weddingbee.com/)

Place cards - Are set at each place setting to inform guest where they are to be seated(place) at the table.  The place card will have the name of each guest on it.  Titles used for a formal event (i.e. Mr. Doe). For more informal events no title  & last name isn't needed (i.e. John ) If there are two people with the same first name seated at the same table then the last name can be added.

                                                    (Craftgossip.com)

So at your next event go the extra step and add escort and/or place cards to your decor. Its sure to make a lasting impression with your guests.

                                         (http://www.blisstree.com/)

New Take on Wedding Guest Books

Capturing moments allow us to treasure memories for a lifetime.....

You spend months planning every last detail of your wedding, making sure that your big day will be a great memory treasured by all who attend. However, when your wedding day finally arrives, everything happens so quickly, almost as if it's a dream.  As much as you want to have every detail of your wedding day branded into your mind, over time even the most precious moments can began just a blur. Besides, on your wedding day, you will be so busy focusing on each other that you may forget certain details like all the well wishes from your guests.

To help avoid that, newlywed couples usually incorporate a wedding guest book. Traditionally, guests leave a nice little note and their signature for the married couple in a nicely designed guest book. Booooring. Tradition is nice and all, but how about trying a more modern and unique approach that will stand out and make for a much more fun experience for you and your guests.

Take a Picture, It'll last longer

They say "a picture is worth a thousand words." Just imagine how much more of an impact your guest book can have, in years to come, if you add pictures. Polaroid guest books are becoming an ever increasing trend at weddings because of their ability to capture more than just faces but the emotions in that moment. And when you go through your guest book thirty years from now, it'll take away the guess work of trying to visualize who wished you "a lifetime of great memories together." Polaroid guest books are a great way of involving guests in capturing spontaneous and candid memories for the bride and groom. And they're quick and easy to use.

Captured E-Motion

Who doesn't love photo booths. Well, there is a new and popular trend at weddings with an interesting take on the photo booth idea: Video Booths. Think video confessionals - reality TV style! Video Booths are a fun way for your guests to leave spontaneous, fun, and personal video messages. This is a creative alternative to the traditional guest book that will be as fun to watch as it was for your guests to make. And for those of you who love to share your every moment with the webiverse, you can easily upload your guest book online via the social media platform of your choosing.

Writing on the Quilt

For those looking to immortalize their big day and also pass down the memory from generation to generation, the quilted version of a guest book is the way to go. All you need are permanent markers and fabric squares to create a uniquely personalize "guest book." Guests will definitely feel like they are sharing a big part of your history, knowing their words will be woven together to create a touching memento: the wedding quilt.




For your upcoming nuptials, take a more personalized and fun approach to capture memories from your big day.

(Credits: Beau Coup, Suite101.com)

Ringin' in the New Year!

Happy New Year!  We are soo happy to be able to start a new year off with such great supporters. 

With so many people becoming engaged over the holiday.  We thought it would be fun to take a look at some rings.. Napkin rings that is.

                                                 (Etsy:Tradewind Tiaras)


We personally think that napkin rings are like the shoe of the table, if you find the perfect one,  it takes your whole table to a different level.

                                                      (Faberage Napkin Holders)

If your budget allows splurge a little on buying, renting or making your own napkin rings.  Your table will thank you later. 

                                           (Kremjo.com)
So if you are looking to add a little spice to the tablescape at your next event, why not put a ring on it!

 Have a great weekend!

Happy Planning!

Your Big Day
(http://www.yourbigdayllc.com/)