More things to check off the to-do list? Yup. We know finalizing all the last-minute details before your wedding day arrives can be overwhelming, but worth all the effort to have everything lined up for the big day! Don’t forget to chat with your vendors and place your orders for these fun touches in plenty of time. These wedding essentials can add so much personality to help tell your story!

Calligraphy: Ladybird Paper Co. | Photo: Laning Photography

Programs + Order of Events Signage

Whether you choose to have individual programs printed, or a large order of events sign with all the details for guests to read as they enter, ceremony and reception programs are a wonderful way to share all sorts of details. Keep it simple with just the order of events, add pizazz with an illustration or make it fun with a thank you note or even fun facts about your bridal party!

Calligraphy: Ellis Page Calligraphy | Photo: Laning Photography

Place Cards

Place cards go hand-in-hand with your seating chart, denoting exactly where at the table each guest should sit and welcoming that person to their seat. A hand-calligraphed place card adds a touch of class!

Calligraphy: Hazelwood Paper Co. | Photo: Payge Stevens Photography

Escort Cards

What’s the difference between place cards and escort cards? While place cards are found on the tables, escort cards are another kind of seating chart where guests find their name and pick up their own place card from the wall (to then escort them to their table). We love both options!

Calligraphy: Lonestar Letter | Photo: Ryan Jordan Photography

Signature Drink Sign

Welcome guests to the bar and invite them to have a little fun by showing off your signature drinks in a fun visual way!

Other Day-Of Wedding Essentials and Finishing Touches

Signage and stationery (more than just the invitation – anything involving words on display!) are often-overlooked but oh-so-important wedding day essentials and contribute to the overall hospitality your guests feel as part of your big day. It’s the little things that make an impression! Overwhelmed by the options and not sure exactly what you’ll need? Reach out to a professional North Texas calligrapher to assist and make the details of your dreams come true. Cheers!

Saying yes to the dress is one thing – making sure it fits like a glove is another! Wedding gown alterations are a virtually inevitable part of being a bride and usually include tailoring your dress to your exact measurements and going over every detail of the gown’s construction to ensure perfection. How exactly do wedding gown alterations work? What should you know beforehand? Read on for our answers to your top FAQs!

Gown: Patsy’s, A Bridal Boutique // Photo: Bay Productions

Wedding Gown Alterations FAQs

Are alterations always done in-house at the boutique where I buy the gown?

Usually, but not always! Most bridal salons offer in-house alterations, but in certain cases, using an outside tailor may be necessary. If you do decide to use a tailor not affiliated with the bridal salon, make sure they have extensive experience with wedding gowns in particular. The fabrics and construction details are unlike any other type of garment!

What kinds of adjustments can be made to my gown via alterations?

The sky is the limit! Almost, anyway. An experienced tailor can transform your gown not just fit-wise, making sure it hugs your curves in all the right places and accentuates your features beautifully, but can also do things like add lace or tulle sleeves to a sleeveless gown, add built-in bra cups, add or adjust a bustle, remove potentially unflattering or uncomfortable pieces, add extra fabric or underwire to help add support or coverage in certain places … the possibilities are nearly endless! Of course, if you love your gown the way it is and just want to take it in, let it out or adjust the height/hem, these are basic alterations any wedding tailor should be able to do.

At your first appointment with the tailor, make sure you speak up about any aspects of your dress you don’t like or want to change. Articulate your vision: even if it can’t be done because of budget constraints or how the dress is made, it’s important for your tailor to have a complete picture of what you’re wanting to achieve.

How much can I expect to spend on alterations?

In this region, anywhere from $300 to $1500 is a common investment for wedding gown alterations, depending on your needs. If you’re making major changes like adding sleeves, rather than basic fit adjustments, you can expect that number to be on the higher end.

How much time should I allow for the alterations process?

Use the rule of threes as a *starting point* when considering time constraints for wedding gown alterations: three months, three fittings (at least!). At your first fitting, the tailor will mark and pin the dress where adjustments need to be made. At the second fitting, you’ll try on the dress again, evaluate the changes made and see what adjustments still need to be made. And repeat until it’s perfect! Because of the time needed to make the changes, most alterations processes average three to four months from start to finish.

If you have a long engagement, you don’t want to start the process too soon as your weight may fluctuate slightly during the wedding planning process, but you do want to give yourself a cushion of at least two months for final alterations before the big day.

What should I wear and bring with me for my wedding dress fitting?

Bring your wedding shoes and any undergarments or bridal shapewear you’re considering wearing to your fittings when possible. This will help the tailor adjust measurements accordingly. Alternatively, your tailor should be able to make recommendations for shapewear that will be most flattering, if needed, so don’t worry if you haven’t already purchased those pieces.

We hope we could help answer some of the biggest questions about wedding gown alterations! Haven’t found the dress of your dreams yet? Schedule an appointment with one of these North Texas bridal boutiques!

One of the trends we’ve loved most throughout 2020 – all the hype surrounding the Enneagram! More than a personality test, the Enneagram gives insight into not just who you are, but why you are the way that you are, and how you can improve your relationships with yourself, loved ones and your significant other. Haven’t explored the Enneagram yet? There are tons of free tests and resources available online worth checking out.

As a bride, knowing your Enneagram type can be helpful for you to recognize and anticipate stressors during the planning process and problem-solve in a way that suits you best. We had fun putting together these Enneagram Bride descriptors – enjoy!

Photo // Dyan Elizabeth Photography

Type 9 as a Bride: The Peacekeeper

May struggle with: Letting others’ opinions carry more weight than your own. Not voicing your preferences or concerns to your vendors.

Try this: Be nice to yourself! It’s your day and you have the right to say no. Be willing to stand up for the aspects that mean the most to you.

Type 8 as a Bride: The Activist

May struggle with: Letting little things become big things. Allowing your passionate spirit to become stressful to yourself and others.

Try this: Simmer down, friend! Give someone close to you permission to keep you in check.

Type 7 as a Bride: The Life of the Party

May struggle with: Wanting to focus on the fun aspects of planning while avoiding making tough decisions. Expecting everyone to share your same level of excitement.

Try this: Meditate. Take some time to relish in the solitude. There will be plenty of time to enjoy the party later on!

Type 6 as a Bride: The Realist

May struggle with: Being confident in your own decisions. Devoting too much time thinking about other options after a choice has already been made.

Try this: Be confident in your choices and try to take compliments at face value! Once a decision has been made, move along and don’t dwell on the what-ifs.

Type 5 as a Bride: The Analyst

May struggle with: Feeling anxious during the inevitable periods of waiting. Holding unrealistic communication expectations with vendors. Stressing about the budget.

Try this: Be okay with uncertainty. ‘I don’t know’ is an acceptable answer. Don’t fret about not having everything nailed down.

Type 4 as a Bride: The Daydreamer

May struggle with: Imagining and wishing for elements beyond your budget. Fretting over aspects of the day not coming together exactly as you envisioned.

Try this: Be realistic. Don’t fantasize about your wedding day. It likely won’t be perfect and that’s okay!

Type 3 as a Bride: The Multitasker

May struggle with: Taking on too many tasks at once. Dealing with subsequent planning burnout and apathy. Wanting to get it all done yourself, and quickly.

Try this: Take a timeout. Take time to breathe, be quiet and restore balance. Ask for help and delegate.

Type 2 as a Bride: The Helper

May struggle with: Not holding friends and vendors accountable. Dismissing mistakes that need to be addressed.

Try this: Prioritize self care. Ask for help and don’t put your own needs in last place.

Type 1 as a Bride: The Inner Critic

May struggle with: Putting pressure on yourself and your wedding day to look a certain way. Critiquing and stressing over things that are small in the scheme of things.

Try this: Be nice to yourself. Ignore your inner critic and try not to fixate too much on the little things.

No matter your type, remember to take advantages of the resources Brides of North Texas has to help you! From local wedding vendors in every category a bride could need to inspiration and advice galore on our blog, we’ve got you covered!

“Shot list” is a buzzword you’ll likely hear at some point during the wedding planning process and refers to a list of photos you want your photographer to capture on the big day. Not sure what to include on your list? If you’re thinking about a shot list in the traditional sense, let us shift your perspective and show you how to give your photographer something *truly* helpful to them and beneficial for everyone involved in your wedding. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t actually include specific shots! Keep reading for all the deets.

Photo: Outland Weddings // Wedding Planner: Artisan Rose Event Co. // Gown: Patsy’s, A Bridal Boutique

How to Create a Shot List for Your Wedding Photographer: The Do’s and Don’ts

Simply put, when you hire a professional wedding photographer to capture your special day, you’re paying them (and trusting them) to do a professional job. However, there are some details you can and should send your photographer that will help them capture your day in a way that most accurately tells your story and reflects who YOU are as a couple.

DON’T:

• Don’t instruct your photographer to capture standard wedding events (getting ready, walking down the aisle, the kiss, first dance, cutting the cake). They’re there to capture the day as it unfolds and these events are a given.
• Don’t give your photographer descriptions or screenshots of specific poses or shot setups to emulate. What you see on Pinterest and Instagram is meant to serve as inspiration, not something for your photographer to try and recreate or copy.
• Don’t expect your wedding photos to look exactly like any others you’ve seen. Lighting, location, weather, and endless other factors play into how your photos will turn out. It’s your unique day, after all!

DO:

• Make sure your photographer knows both who and what are most important to you to capture, outside of you, your fiancé and your wedding party.
• Make sure you have a photography timeline (typically created by the photographer with input from you and your main vendors) and that your vendors are on the same page, schedule-wise.
• Work with your photographer to create a list of the family groupings you’d like photos of.
• Do let your photographer know if you have a desire to have your wedding photos published. There are certain types of photos many publications look for, so your photographer will need to approach certain things with a keen eye.

Let your photographer know if there are any special moments you’d like to happen, like a first look with your bridesmaids or your dad, a letter or gift exchange, touching or talking to your S.O. prior to the ceremony without seeing them – it’s totally okay for you to tell your photographer about things like this you’d like included in your day. They’ll make sure these events get captured beautifully!

Your wedding photographer does need to be made aware of special personal details to which they may not otherwise pay special attention. Are you wearing any special jewelry? Including any family heirlooms in your ceremony? Highlighting something borrowed or blue? Let them know about these items so they can be sure to capture them!

Do you have any extra-special family members or friends you’d like to make sure to get a photo with? Definitely tell your photographer! Think about your VIPs and give your photographer a heads up so they’re sure not to miss those people.

How to Make a Family Shot List for Your Wedding

The one actual checklist your wedding photographer WILL need is a list of family groupings with first names listed out for each set. Your photographer should have a template or suggestions of groupings to help you get started, but if you’re stuck, we have a few pro tips!

The family groupings usually include three segments: your family, your fiancé’s family and both families combined. Depending on the timeline of your day and whether or not you choose to do a first look, some of these groups may be captured before the ceremony and some after. To make it easier to think about who should be included, start with the biggest group (i.e. extended family with aunts, uncles and cousins) and have your groupings get smaller from there.

IMPORTANT TIP: Be sure to let your photographer know about any potentially awkward family dynamics. Divorced parents, estranged relatives, someone recently passed away – knowing any details like this ahead of time can help your photographer avoid having to ask uncomfortable questions or say the wrong thing in front of your family on the actual wedding day. Remember: your photographer knows you, but they’ve most likely never met your family!

What to Give Your Photographer Instead of a Traditional Shot List

In sum, your wedding photographer doesn’t need a checklist or collection of shots for “inspiration”. But DO let your photographer know about special items, personal details and special people they’ll want to highlight. Get specific with your family groupings list and include as much helpful information as possible.

Trust your wedding photographer to capture your day’s events as they unfold in a way that reflects their creativity and style as an artist (remember, you hired them because you liked their work) and that also reflects you, your family and your story. Your love is like no one else’s, so your wedding photo album shouldn’t be, either. Cheers to beautiful photos of the most special day!

When your wedding day arrives, you want to not only feel beautiful, but look your very best, too! That’s why it’s important to find a professional wedding hair and makeup team you trust to help make sure you look incredible. Most beauty teams offer both hair AND makeup, while others specialize in one or the other. Regardless of whether you book them separately or together, you’ll want to keep these tips in mind when booking your Dallas wedding hair and makeup pros!

Hair + Makeup: Tease to Please Hair and Makeup // Photo: Alexis Danielle Photography

When to book wedding hair and makeup

If you have your heart set on a certain hairstylist or makeup artist, it’s never too early to reserve your date! Many artists book out a year in advance. Beauty companies with several stylists on their team can often accommodate multiple weddings per date, so depending on who you’re booking, you could book 3-6 months out from your big day. We don’t recommend cutting it too close, though – have someone booked by 3 months out!

Get our beauty appointment timeline here!

What to consider when choosing a bridal hairstyle and makeup look

• Hair length and texture – certain hairstyles work best on longer hair, fine hair or hair that holds curl extremely well, while others are best for thick or textured hair. Your stylist can help determine if the style you’re considering is realistic for your hair type.
• Dancing – do you plan to dance the night away and get crazy on the dance floor? You’ll want a hairstyle that can withstand those moves!
• The weather – are you having an outdoor ceremony with potential for wind or humidity? Keep that in mind when thinking about your bridal look.
• Your dress – your hair and makeup look should not only compliment your natural beauty, but the style of your gown, as well! Whether you’re going for boho, glam or classic, you’ll want to have a cohesive aesthetic.

Trust your stylist(s) and ask for their advice when it comes to styles, color palettes and more. They’re the experts, and can offer insight you may not have considered!

Find the best makeup look for your undertone here!

Consider these details when it comes to wedding hair and makeup

• What will your number of attendants be and who will be getting which services done? Don’t forget moms, grandmas, junior bridesmaids, house party attendants and flower girls.
• Will you’ll want your bridesmaids to have half-up/down hairstyles or an updo? Updos often take longer and that time needs to be accounted for. some brides prefer their bridesmaids to have a uniform look when it comes to hair and makeup, others aren’t picky – either way is fine, you’ll just need to decide before it’s time to finalize hair and makeup plans and costs.
• What time your ceremony will start and what time photos need to start? Your hair and makeup artists will need to know what time they’ll need to be finished by in order to calculate their start time.
• If you don’t have access to your venue until a certain time and hair and makeup will need to start before then, you’ll need to have another location in mind for getting ready. A hotel is a common, convenient option – consider a home rental, too! They often offer much more space to move around natural window light than hotels, which also makes for beautiful photos!

Connect with Dallas area hair and makeup vendors here!

Who pays for bridesmaids’ hair and makeup?

Generally speaking, bridesmaids are responsible for paying for their own hair and makeup, as long as they have the option to do their own. If you as the bride are requiring your bridesmaids and attendants to have their hair and makeup professionally done, it’s generally expected for you to cover the cost. Again, if you’re giving them the option to do their own hair and makeup OR have it professionally done, it’s acceptable within modern wedding etiquette to expect your attendants to pay for those services. That said, how much should you budget for wedding hair and makeup?

How much should I budget for Dallas wedding hair and makeup?

Beauty services will vary from region to region and company to company, but generally speaking, brides can expect to spend anywhere between $200 and $600 total on their wedding hair and makeup. If you’re wanting special services like airbrush makeup, false lashes or an intricate hairstyle, expect for that cost to be higher. Bridesmaids’ and other attendants’ hair and makeup costs are often slightly lower than the bride’s. Remember, you’re paying for your artists’ time, talent and product. And don’t forget you’ll need to tip for a job well done!

Do I really need to do a hair and makeup trial?

If a trial isn’t included within your bridal beauty booking, you’ll absolutely want to invest in both a hair and makeup trial so you can make sure your look is spot-on for the big day. You may discover that the hairstyle you had in mind doesn’t work as well as you thought with your particular hair type – or maybe the makeup color palette you were considering doesn’t look quite like you expected. This is the time to be honest with your stylist(s) – speak up if there’s something you don’t like! The trial is the perfect time to make adjustments or to go in another direction if you don’t feel comfortable with the look.

Pro tip: many brides have their stylists coordinate with their photographer so their hair and makeup trial can take place on the same day as their bridal session!

Prep for your bridal trial with wedding self care tips here!

What other beauty treatments should I consider as I plan for my wedding beauty look?

Having a good spray tan as a base for wedding hair and makeup is crucial. It provides a radiant and healthy glow to the skin, creating a flawless canvas for makeup application. It evens out skin tone and minimizes the appearance of blemishes, ensuring smooth and seamless makeup in photographs. Additionally, it enhances the overall appearance of your hair and makes makeup colors pop more vibrantly, resulting in a stunning bridal look. The Spray Spa and Tray Chic Glow offer the best services to enhance your natural glow and create a great base for your amazing beauty team to work with.

Don’t forget your brows & lashes, too!

Why worry about crying your falsies off when you could invest in stunning lash extensions that will last beyond the big day? We love the way lash extensions look with glamorous and natural wedding makeup, and your bridal makeup artist will appreciate the time it saves them on your big day. Want even more bonus points with your professional wedding makeup artist? Have your brows waxed and ready to be glammed to see the best results with your bridal makeup look. Find your one-stop brow, lash shop, and facial bar below!

Ready to get wedding hair and makeup on the books? Peruse our recommendations for North Texas beauty teams ready to rock your big day!

If you can envision your sweetheart getting down on one knee and saying YES to forever with your favorite person, you’ve probably already started thinking about your dream engagement ring. Rocking that sparkly new ring is oh-so-exciting, but the choices can be overwhelming!

If you’re not sure which style would suit you best, scroll through our handy (no pun intended) guide for more info on all the most popular engagement ring and wedding band styles. Whether you plan to go ring shopping together at a local North Texas jewelry store or just want to give subtle hints and let your S.O. surprise you, we hope this guide helps!

The Most Popular Engagement Ring Gemstone Cuts

Round cut: a classic circle shape also known as “standard round,” this cut flatters all fingers and because of the cuts made to the diamond and the way light reflects off those facets, is also the most sparkly!

Cushion cut: somewhere between a circle and a rectangle, the cushion cut has rounded edges and corners and offers exceptional brilliance with a vintage aesthetic. This style is flattering on wider fingers.

Oval cut: a universally flattering cut for any hands, ovals have great brilliance and uniqueness.

Princess cut: the square shape that looks great on any hands, the princess cut can be both classic or contemporary, depending on how it’s set.

Emerald cut: with its mirror-like, elongated rectangular cuts, the linear facets on emerald-cut diamonds create eye-catching flashes of light rather than a typical dazzling sparkle. This cut is totally vintage in nature and has a finger-elongating effect.

Asscher cut: known for its exclusive X shape, the Asscher cut is similar to the emerald cut because of its mirror-like, step-down facets and overall brightness, rather than sparkly brilliance. This cut is perfect for the bride who appreciates Gothic or Art Deco style.

Pear cut: another elongating style, the pear cut resembles a teardrop and offers a dainty, timeless look.

Marquise cut: similar to a football shape, the marquise cut is less popular and a great choice for the bold, one-of-a-kind bride!

PRO TIP: Keep in mind that elongated cuts like oval, pear and marquis will offer more bang for your buck, as the surface area is large compared to the actual carat size. You’ll be able to get a larger-looking diamond for a lower price.

The Most Popular Engagement Ring Settings

Solitaire: the most popular, classic style where the diamond shines alone on a simple metal band and is held up by metal claws known as prongs (typically 4 prongs, but for larger stones, 6 prongs is a great choice and offers extra security).

Cathedral: in this style, the metal of the ring swoops up on each side to “meet” the diamond, accentuating the height of the stone and offering a gradual ascension, rather than the striking-ness of a pronged solitaire.

3-Stone: a timeless setting for the classic bride, 3-stone can work beautifully with round cut, princess cut or emerald cut stones, featuring 2 equal-size smaller stones flanking a larger stone in the center. Extra-dazzling!

Channel Set: similar to the pave style with tiny diamonds all in a row along the band, the channel setting has a line of small stones set in between metal “walls”, so the top of the stones are flush with the metal and the sides of the diamonds are protected.

Baguette: a twist on the 3-stone style, the baguette is a vintage-inspired style where tapered, horizontal stones flank the center stone.

Halo: with an outline comprised of either pave-set or channel-set smaller stones around the main stone, a halo (or double halo, or triple halo!) is a great way to create the appearance of a larger diamond without the price tag.

Alternative Gemstone Colors for Your Engagement Ring

Wanting something that feels more like YOU and less like everyone else? Consider a colored stone instead of a diamond! Show off your personality – there are no rules when it comes to your engagement ring!

Sapphire: the royal weddings of years’ past have inspired many brides to choose this dreamy deep blue stone. If timeless, classic and feminine describe your personal style, a sapphire might be for you!

Emerald: striking and bold, an emerald green stone is both unique and durable and perfect for the bride who appreciates an artsy, vintage style.

Topaz: this light blue stone also comes in a white variety, which can mimic the look of a diamond for a fraction of the price.

Ruby: a wonderful selection for the boho, romantic bride, a ruby red stone evokes feelings of a fairy-tale love as well as a vintage feel, especially with a gold band.

The Most Popular Wedding Band Styles

Once you’ve honed in on an engagement ring, it’s time to pick a coordinating wedding band. Gone are the days where wedding bands have to match as a perfect set with your engagement ring. Many brides are choosing a more mix-and-match style when it comes to wedding bands, and stacking various bands together is also a popular choice! For the guys, picking a durable material is as important as picking the color, finish and thickness. Your jeweler can help you decide what’s best based on your lifestyle and needs.

Classic: It doesn’t get classier or more timeless than a simple gold or silver band accompanying your engagement ring.

Pave: Pronounced pah-vay, this French word literally means “to pave” and the idea is that the ring resembles a street paved with diamonds. The space between the tiny stones is so minimal it’s hardly noticeable, which means the sparkle factor is unreal!

Eternity: On an eternity band, the stones go all the way around the band in an “infinite” circle, symbolizing endless love. Eternity wedding bands are popularly worn as standalone rings for those who choose to forego an engagement ring altogether.

Contour: A contoured wedding band fits snugly around an engagement ring, hugging its curves and completing a matching set. This style is great for oblong stones like marquis and pear, as well.

Ready to narrow down your engagement ring search? Head to your local fine jeweler and try a few styles on, but remember, it’s smart to try on multiple ring styles. You may end up loving a style you wouldn’t have expected. Happy ring shopping!

You’ve got the ring, a venue booked, a photographer picked out, a planner hired, checking big things off the list – it’s time to start thinking about your Dallas wedding florals! We’ve got the 411 on booking your blooms: everything you’ll need to know about when to book, where to look and important things you’ll want to consider when thinking about flowers for your wedding. Let’s get started!

Florals: Vella Nest Florals // Photo: Chua Lee Photography

When to book your florist

In the past, it was more common for florists to work on more than one wedding per day, but today, with florals being a huge part of a wedding’s design and blooms being so integral and time-intensive, many florists only book one wedding per day, which means you don’t want to wait! You’ll need to have a date set and ideally a venue (having your planner booked is also helpful), but 9-10 months out from your date is ideal, especially considering your florist will likely need to order your flowers wholesale and needs ample time to place those orders. If you’re planning on getting married during “busy season” (June-October), you’ll want to book your florist even further in advance (12-15 months). Don’t wait!

Who to book for your wedding florals

This all depends on your vision. Take a look at several local florists’ work and decide which styles you’re drawn to most. Do you like tall, formal arrangements? Loose, organic and freeform bouquets featuring unique blooms? Monochromatic? Colorful? Whimsical? Nailing down your personal style and knowing which florists specialize in that style can help you know who to reach out to. From there, inquire on their website and be prepared to tell them your floral budget. As a rule of thumb, devoting 10% of your overall wedding budget to florals is common, but if you want to go all out with florals, go for it! Or if minimal blooms is more your thing, that’s ok, too – it’s just important to be up front with your florist about your desires.

Florals: Blushington Blooms Luxury Floral & Events // Photo: Kelly Costello Photography

Communicating your vision to your florist

Speaking of your desires, how do you communicate your vision to your florist? A mood board can help! Before your initial meeting with your florist, use Pinterest or gather photos of elements that FEEL like your ideal wedding. These photos don’t have to be just of blooms! Let fashion (wedding gowns and bridesmaids dresses) inspire you, let color swatches inspire you, let photos of gorgeous venues inspire you. Photos can help communicate your vision well when you don’t necessarily have the words to describe precisely what you’re wanting.

That said, if you don’t have a specific vision for your wedding florals, it’s important to have an open mind and let your florist take the creative reigns! That’s why you’re hiring this person: for their talent, expertise and creativity! Give them a starting point plus the freedom to create something uniquely beautiful and you’ll be amazed.

Remember, certain flowers are only in season during certain times of year, so if you had a certain bloom in mind, it may not work for your wedding date. Let your florist make suggestions for alternatives and trust their expertise!

Hiring a planner-florist versus florist only

It’s common these days for wedding planners to also double as florists and vice versa. Floral design and overall wedding design go hand-in-hand, and many of these vendors have incredible expertise in not only designing and planning the blooms, but the whole bash, too! Because floral design is such a large part of the event design, you’ll want to make sure your planner (who should be one of your very first, if not the first, hires you make) and florist are comfortable working together if you do book two separate vendors for these tasks.

Hint: Many times, companies that specialize in both floral design and wedding planning will have “events”, “event planning” and/or “design” in their company name. That’s often a clue as to who can do both!

Florals: Dr Delphinium Designs + Events // Photo: Allen Tsai Photography

Where to spend and where to save on wedding florals

Before hiring a florist for your wedding, you’ll want to ask a few helpful questions. Do they have a minimum spend you’ll need to meet? Do they have a separate delivery charge? What’s the latest you’ll be able to make changes to your order? After these questions have been answered, you and your florist should be able to have a much clearer picture of the total amount you’ll be spending.

At the very minimum, you’ll want to invest in bouquets for you and your bridesmaids, boutonnieres, corsages and perhaps an accent piece for the altar. Beyond that, you’ll be looking at table centerpieces, a large floral install for your altar area, accent pieces for various parts of the venue, blooms for the cake and cake table, floral walls, hanging florals and more! The options are truly endless when it comes to the ways florals can make a visual impact.

If florals are top-priority for your wedding, be prepared to spend upwards of 10% of your overall budget on blooms. Remember that larger installs also require more labor – often a team, not just one person – and will affect the price you pay. If you’re looking to save money when it comes to florals, you’ll need to scale down on size and intricacy. You can also save by using blooms that are in-season and more commonly grown/easy to order.

Curious about using fake flowers to cut down on costs? This is certainly an option, but keep in mind the high quality faux flowers that will make someone look twice to figure out if they’re real, are often more expensive than the real flowers themselves!

Floral trends to watch

Floating florals – coming down from the ceiling, seem to float above your tables in mid-air, hanging floral installs are guaranteed to make jaws drop!

Dried florals – becoming more and more popular, especially for brides with a boho style, dried florals make a unique statement and can be used in tons of different ways.

Immersive installations + photo backdrops – think full-size tunnel walkthroughs, arches and walls, immersive installations allow your guests to experience the flowers, rather than just look at them!

Bold, joyful colors – with everything going on this year, brides are looking to express joyful, exuberant, bold and colorful vibes to share an optimistic vibe for their long-awaited celebrations.

Urns and pots – the classic and traditional urn is getting a makeover, being used with statement florals but in less stuffy ways, and potted plants allow for reusable decor pieces once the day has come and gone.

Sustainable florals – it’s not just a buzzword. Sustainable practices in the wedding industry are becoming standard, and even more so within florals! Foam-free floral design, locally harvested blooms and recycling efforts are just a few ways wedding florists are making sure their practices are more eco-friendly.

Ready to get your blooms on the books? Let us recommend a fabulously talented DFW wedding florist to make your floral dreams come true!

As if choosing a wedding dress wasn’t hard enough, brides also face a plethora of choices when it comes to options for bridal shapewear and lingerie. Trust us, what’s underneath the dress can make a major difference in how your gown fits and in your overall comfort level for the day. And remember: comfort translates to confidence! Wearing the right pieces beneath your wedding dress can help you feel your absolute best on your big day. Below, we’re covering the basics of everything from slips to corsets (no, we’re not talking the restricting medieval-like torture devices of the past) to full body slimmers, as well as some of the staple pieces in bridal shapewear, lingerie and accessories (what’s the point of a garter, anyway?). Keep reading for all the deets!

The Best Bridal Shapewear for Underneath Your Wedding Dress

Corset: a corset cinches at the back, often with laces that tighten, to help slim your waist. For ladies wanting tummy control and muffin top control, a corset may be a good option. Modern corsets are made with enough stretch to not be restricting so you can still breathe normally.

Bustier: a bustier (pronounced boost-ee-YAY) is the same shape as a corset but without laces in the back; rather, the bust area is defined and lifted for support and shape. A bustier can help girls of any chest size have a more defined bust and help to make sure everything stays in place.

Bodysuit: similar to the shape of a one-piece swimsuit, a bodysuit covers your midsection from the chest to the hips and eliminates panty lines while smoothing out curves and helping to create a lovely hourglass figure. Bodysuits can be have a briefs, thong or shorts cut.

Waist-only slimmer: for ladies wanting the illusion of a flatter tummy, wearing a waist slimmer under the dress can keep things tighter and smoother without constricting your legs in any way.

Waist-thigh slimmer: for the best midsection coverage and slimming effects, a waist-thigh slimmer goes all the way from beneath the bust to above the knees, helping to tone the entire midsection and smooth any bumps and curves beneath the dress. You’ll want to try on waist-thigh slimmers and make sure the tight pant legs don’t ride up, as the bunching of the material can be obvious under certain dress styles. Look for full shapewear with a strategically placed hole to make going to the bathroom a breeze!

Depending on your specific dress and on your body, your bridal boutique or seamstress may recommend simply sewing built-in bra cups on the inside of your dress rather than have you wear a separate undergarment. Wearing regular underwear may be an option for you, as well – you’ll just want to make sure they’re a nude color and won’t bunch up or show any lines if your dress is tight-fitting through the waist.

Do You Need to Wear a Slip Under Your Wedding Dress?

Why wear a slip beneath your wedding dress? SHAPE. Not only does a slip help to smooth out any lines and ensure your dress flows beautifully along your skin without bunching, for fuller dress styles, a slip is imperative for the material to keep the desired shape (a.k.a: the poof!). Wedding dress slips are lightweight but wired so the material will flare in all the right places, and they also ensure that your dress doesn’t bunch between your legs in the front or between your cheeks in the back – not a good look for any bride!

Fitted/Sheath: the simplest style of slip for the slimmest-fitting of dresses. Fitted or sheath slips usually do not have any shape-holding wires and simply serve to smooth things out so the material of the dress can stay smooth and elongated.

Trumpet: a trumpet (or mermaid) slip flares out below the knee to help these styles of dresses hold their iconic shape at the bottom.

Ball Gown: a ballgown slip will flare out dramatically from the highest point in the midsection to create dramatic lines.

A-line: a-line dresses typically have more flowy skirts that gradually flare out from the hips, so these slips will have wiring that starts up higher to accommodate this shape.

Not sure which fit would be most flattering on your body type? Our guide to wedding dress styles and fits can help!

Boudoir Shoots

Are you searching for the perfect ensemble to wear during your bridal boudoir shoot? Or perhaps you’re new to the boudoir photography scene and want to know all the particulars that might help ease your mind? Find everything you need to know about boudoir shoots at the link below and read on to see (and even shop) some of our top lingerie recommendations for the occasion!

• Everything You’re Too Scared to Ask About Wedding Boudoir Photography

Bridal Lingerie Options

Last but not least, you’ll want to think about investing in some bridal lingerie! These pieces are extra dainty and oh-so-delicate, helping you to embrace your bridal beauty beyond just your wedding day. Plus, they don’t have to come in only shades of white. Go for a bold tone or a cute pattern as a way to infuse some color into your day, and get some extra mileage out of these pieces by doing a boudoir session or bringing them along on the honeymoon!

Robe/Kimono: get ready in style on your wedding day with a silky soft robe, which can serve a dual purpose by allowing for easy on-and-off so as not to mess up your hair and makeup once your stylists get it perfect!

Babydoll Negligee: a classic cut for bridal lingerie, the babydoll top is flattering on nearly every body type and makes for a fun, feminine and flirty piece.

Garters: what’s the point of a bridal garter? Well, these days, they don’t truly serve a purpose other than being a meaningful piece many brides look forward to wearing as a part of a longstanding tradition. Centuries ago, garters were connected to stockings and worn above the knee to help keep the stockings from slipping down. The garter toss tradition emerged as a way to share good luck with one lucky guest by sharing a piece of the bride’s clothing. Do you have to do a garter toss at your wedding? By no means! If you’re not into it or not comfortable, many modern brides are choosing to forego this tradition. However, if you do want to wear a garter and plan on doing a garter toss, look for a garter set that includes a thicker, more intricate garter along with a thinner, simpler garter: the smaller to toss and the larger to keep! The smaller one will go below the larger one on your leg (remember to put them on before your shoes!). Which leg to wear a garter on is totally up to you. There’s no right or wrong!

Your local bridal boutiques should carry several options for bridal shapewear and slips, and many also carry lingerie, garters, robes and more. You may find it easiest to order several varieties online and see what you like best if you aren’t able to try on different options in-store. Here’s to comfort and confidence as you rock your own unique bridal look!

There’s no stress like wedding planning stress, and add in a worldwide pandemic to throw a wrench or two in your plans? Yeah, that can make a joyous season a whole lot tougher. Dealing with bridal stress can feel overwhelming, lonely, misunderstood and frustrating. It’s incredibly important for those in the midst of wedding planning to prioritize mental health and set aside time to do things that make you feel good! It’s no secret that physical health and fitness directly correlates with mental health and a more positive mental state – we’ve got a few fun ways for you to tackle both at once! Keep the bridal stress at bay, clear your mind and get your heart rate up by engaging in some of these stress-reducing activities.

Pump It Up with Friends

Try a high-intensity workout with friends. There’s strength in numbers – especially when you’re pumping it up with your pals! You’ll leave a Pure Barre Coppell class feeling sore and renewed in the best way. These targeted workouts offer an encouraging, supportive environment to work on your fitness and sweat it out with friends!

Explore your town in a new way. Get outside and get moving! Rollerblade, scooter, skateboard, hike, or just take a long walk! Challenge yourself to outside for some fresh air and move your body just 2 or 3 times a week to start and see how your mood can change.

Turn Off the Noise

Watch your screen time. As you’re scrolling Instagram, Pinterest and the ‘net for inspiration galore, make sure you’re setting healthy screen time boundaries, too. It’s easier than we realize to get sucked into unhealthy phone habits. Try the Moment app to help reduce mindless scrolling and get up and move your body, instead!

Try a yoga or pilates class. A quiet, low-impact workout is the perfect way to find your zen zone, clear your mind and work your body at the same time. You’ll focus focus on lengthening and strengthening your muscles while emphasizing controlled breathing, too. Relieve stress and boost your confidence? That’s a win-win!

Prepare for your “me time.” Scheduling out time for your mediations or workouts is a MUST. You will be less likely to watch just one more episode of Queer Eye when you’ve allotted this time for yourself already. Write it in your calendar if that’s helpful and schedule it directly before or after work or right before bed so it’s less invasive to your free time. Be prepared for your workout by investing in gear you enjoy using – shop our Amazon faves here – and if you’re anything like us, you’ll be way more inclined to get to the mat.

Find a Cheerleader

Work with a nutrition coach. If bridal stress has you shoveling anything and everything into your grocery cart or developing unhealthy habits with food, you’re not alone. No matter your current size or your goal size, working with someone who’s qualified to develop an eating plan tailored to YOU can reduce stress and set you up for success long after the wedding day is over.

See the difference a personal trainer can make. There’s no better time to invest in a personal trainer – someone who will really understand your needs + what works best for you and can tap into that inner confidence to help you feel your fiercest! Bells & Barbells offers personal one-on-one training sessions along with nutrition counseling and with the goal of helping you look and feel your absolute best.

We hope these ideas can help you on your way to keeping bridal stress at bay. Remember, it’s normal to feel extra stressed during this season of life, but if you’re feeling too overwhelmed or not like yourself, it’s more than okay to ask for help! No matter what you need before the big day, our trusted local wedding vendors are ready to help. You got this!

Photos courtesy of Unsplash

Whether you’re concerned about the pandemic encroaching on your wedding plans, or an intimate celebration with only your closest loved ones is right up your alley anyway, you may want to consider planning a micro wedding. Technically defined as an intimate wedding celebration with 50 guests or fewer, a micro wedding contains all or most of the aspects of a traditional wedding, just on a smaller, condensed scale. In contrast to a minimony (a super small ceremony with 10 guests or less), a micro wedding still includes the important wedding day events and details – just with a smaller guest list.

With the present state of things and with restrictions on larger gatherings extended indefinitely, micro weddings are becoming a popular option for many couples who simply don’t want to wait to marry their best friend, yet still want a good group of loved ones in attendance. The extra-enticing aspect of micro weddings? Convenience. 

Many venues are now offering all-inclusive micro wedding packages, with everything a couple could need to host a joyous celebration and begin their union with a beautiful day full of love. These packages include everything from florals to cake to an officiant, with minimal planning left to think about so the couple can truly focus on the most important thing: officially starting their lives together!

Photos // Bertha Torres Photography

Hotel Crescent Court in Uptown Dallas, for example, now offers a micro wedding package for modern couples that includes over a dozen aspects like wine service, a champagne reception, a cake, floral arrangements and even a wedding coordinator. As a collaborative effort with other North Texas bridal vendors, Hotel Crescent Court wants brides and grooms to be able to leave the details to their team of experts, enjoy an effortless wedding planning process amidst uncertain times and say I do to their sweetheart with ease. 

With gorgeous options offered in a neutral color palette, couples may sacrifice extensive customization but can reap the benefits of convenience and savings. In fact, Hotel Crescent Court’s micro wedding packages range from only $2750 to $4500 – with so many details included and a beautiful celebration without a bunch of fuss, going the micro wedding route can be a no-brainer!

For more information on hosting a micro wedding with Hotel Crescent Court’s Current Affairs, reach out through their Brides of North Texas vendor profile! See more of this incredible wedding inspiration from the hotel here.