Wedding Planning - The Wedding Playbook Wedding Planning Ideas & Tips Fri, 18 Oct 2024 04:20:00 +0000 en-AU hourly 1 https://theweddingplaybook.com/wp-content/uploads/Wedding-Playbook-Favicon-2.png Wedding Planning - The Wedding Playbook 32 32 30 Important Details to Put on Your Wedding Website https://theweddingplaybook.com/wedding-website-details/ Thu, 17 Oct 2024 03:41:27 +0000 http://theweddingplaybook.com/?p=37334 What’s the best way to avoid being bombarded with wedding questions from your guests? Being able to tell them, “It’s all on our wedding website!” From the dress code to travel arrangements, catering options, wet […]

The post 30 Important Details to Put on Your Wedding Website appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

]]>

What’s the best way to avoid being bombarded with wedding questions from your guests? Being able to tell them, “It’s all on our wedding website!”

From the dress code to travel arrangements, catering options, wet weather backups and gifting, we’ve dug deep to bring you a comprehensive list of need-to-know details that help your loved ones prep for the party of your life. 

The lead up to your wedding feels much less frantic when you only have to write something once on your wedding website instead of fielding all the logistical questions on repeat. Plus, it won’t matter if your guests forget to bring their wedding invitation on the day, because you know they’ll never leave home without their phone!

Here’s absolutely everything you can (and should) put on your wedding website, so your family and friends have all the essential intel before the celebrations kick off.

Make a beautiful (and helpful!) wedding website with Say I do

Our story sponsor Say I do offers stunning wedding website designs that are easy for you to customise and even easier for your guests to use! 

You can add new sections as wedding details are finalised, transforming your website from a digital Save the Date into a fully fledged planning tool as you get closer to the big day.  

You can also create your guest list, send out digital announcements, collect RSVPs and then build your seating plan as the confirmations roll in. We love an all-in-one platform! 

They have a basic, free forever option with additional features available for a one-time-cost depending on what you need. (If you’re loading your website full of information for guests’ eyes only, the password protection alone is worth paying for!)

“We’re using Say I do and definitely recommend it! The templates they have available are very elegant and we love that when guests RSVP, their names go onto a confirmed section where you can set up tables.”

Why put a lot of information on your wedding website?

Here’s what wedding guests have to say:

“I find wedding websites extremely helpful! I almost always have a freakout moment when I’ve left the invitation at home and I’m like, “Wait, what time does the ceremony start? Where did they say the parking was? What’s the food situation?” It’s a relief to be able to pull up the answers quickly online.”

“As a guest, I love wedding websites. I’m a details person and want to know what to wear, what to bring, what I’ll be eating and how I’m getting home in advance, without having to bother the couple with a hundred questions.”

Your Wedding Website Checklist

Essential Details

  • Your names
  • Wedding date, time and location
  • Schedule of wedding events
  • Dress code
  • Guest contact person
  • Wedding gift preferences

Guest List Details

  • RSVP information
  • Children invited or adults only
  • Plus ones

Location Details

  • Transport tips
  • Navigation instructions
  • Nearby accommodation
  • Things to do
  • Places to eat

Personal Details

  • Your love story
  • Wedding party introduction

Wedding Day Details

  • Wedding day timeline
  • Wet weather backup
  • Virtual wedding information
  • Unplugged wedding information 
  • Social media sharing
  • Catering
  • Entertainment

Essential Information Every Wedding Website Needs

Don’t struggle with trying to squeeze every itty bitty detail onto your wedding invitation. Add a QR code to your stationery and put the extra information on your wedding website instead!

“Having a website was super helpful for us because the mail has been unreliable. Some of my relatives never got their invites, so it was easy for me to just send them our website for the info they needed.”

Who’s getting married, where and when

Putting your names, wedding date, time and location front and centre on your wedding website makes sure these key details are easy to find at a glance.

“As a guest, I use the wedding website to double check the addresses and ceremony time – usually when I’ve left the invite at home.”

A comprehensive wedding event schedule

Are you hosting a wedding weekend, rehearsal dinner or morning after brunch? Help your guests plan for these extra celebrations by including a timeline of all of the festivities taking place before and after the main event. 

Using a wedding website builder like Say I do will give you control over which guests can see which events on the schedule.

“I went to a wedding last year where they had a brunch the next day but didn’t mention it until after the ceremony. We had already booked a flight back home and I would have left later if I had known!”

What attire your guests should wear

The wedding dress code

This helps everyone understand the level of formality of your wedding. Dress codes can be hard to decipher at the best of times, so you can always add some clarifying details like “no jeans” or “ties optional” if you think your loved ones will have questions about the attire you’ve requested. 

You might also want to share multiple dress codes for different events (e.g. welcome drinks). Hard to squeeze all this onto a small card with your invitation! 

Typical seasonal conditions

What to expect climate wise for the time of year in your wedding location is super helpful, especially if guests are travelling from out-of-town or overseas. For example, “The mountains can get very cold at night, so we suggest bringing an extra layer.”

Wedding venue considerations

Also let guests know here if the ceremony or reception will be held outdoors, if you’re exchanging vows with the sand between your toes or enjoying an open air reception on a sprawling property. This will help them come prepared with the right footwear, outfit and accessories.

A contact person for guest inquiries

Who should your guests get in touch with if they have any questions in the lead up to your wedding or on the day? You might be happy to be the main contact during the wedding planning, but you’ll definitely want someone else to field the calls while you’re busy getting ready!

Your wedding gift preferences

Have you organised a wedding registry, honeymoon or house fund, charitable donation or simply prefer no gifts at all? Let your guests know the details here. You can also add a note if you would rather guests not bring their gifts to the wedding venue and what to do instead. 

“Our family is quite traditional, so we opted not to put registry information on our wedding invitation in case it suggested that we expected a gift. Instead, we just referred guests to our website for the details which made it easier for everyone.”

Manage the Guest List on Your Wedding Website

How should wedding guests RSVP?

Let your guests know how they should RSVP to your wedding and by when. Wedding websites like Say I do offer guest list tools so your loved ones can reply to your invitation at the click of a button and answer custom questions like dietary requirements and meal choices. 

Are children invited or is it an adults only affair? 

Will you be having children at your wedding? If yes, note any kid friendly arrangements for seating, catering and entertainment so parents know what plans are in place and what they need to organise and bring. 

If kids aren’t invited, there are plenty of ways to announce an adults only wedding for you to choose from. This is also where to let them know if you’re organising a babysitter or share details of childcare options available in the area. 

Who can bring a plus one?

No matter what you’ve put on your invitation, people sometimes gloss over your diplomatic wording and asks whether they can bring someone who isn’t invited. Or worse, RSVP with extra attendees! 

Mentioning on your wedding website that you can only cater for plus ones named on the invitation could save you from a difficult conversation or two. Or you can let your wedding website do the work for you by limiting plus ones, so your guests can only RSVP for the amount of people you’ve allocated for them. 

Help Guests Get to and From Your Wedding Location

Wedding invitations don’t usually go out until 2-3 months before the wedding. An FAQ on your website is useful for that time between sending a Save the Date and the invitation, which is when most people are looking to book their flights and accommodation. 

“I have a wedding coming up soon and need to buy flights, find accommodation and figure out whether I need to hire a car. I have a ton of questions and not much time, so I’d like to be able to get the answers when I need them, which is usually late at night!”

Transport tips for smooth arrival and departure

Make it easier on your guests by providing info on what apps they might want to download to make their trip smoother.

Public transport

If public transport is an option, share any recommended services and a link to their timetables.

Flights

Ease the logistical planning by letting them know where to fly into and how far the airport is from accommodation. 

Car

Don’t forget to include drop off and parking information for when they arrive, where they can park overnight and include any known costs or options.

Shuttle bus

If you’ve organised transport to help everyone travel from A to B, you’ll need to share details on the meeting point and departure time. Have a sign up section for any shuttle service you’re offering.

Rideshare and taxis

Any information on ridesharing and taxis to travel safely after last drinks are called will be much appreciated.

Navigation instructions to your wedding venue

Holding your celebration somewhere a little tricky to find? Detailed directions will help guests on their way and come in handy when the clock is ticking down to your ceremony time. 

If you’re tying the knot and partying in different locations, let guests know the estimated travel time between your ceremony and reception venues, as well as the best way to get there. 

Nearby accommodation options for travelling guests

Make it easy for guests to find somewhere to stay near your wedding venue by sharing accommodation recommendations. This is especially helpful if you’re getting married in a remote or overseas destination. 

If you’ve organised a room block, your wedding website is the perfect place to share all the details about the property and how your guests can reserve their rooms at the discounted rate. 

Local recommendations to make the most of their stay

Things to Do 

Help your out-of-town guests with a roundup of recommended attractions and restaurants in the area. A curated list of destinations for sightseeing is perfect if anyone is planning to stay longer.

Places to Eat 

If you’re getting married locally or have just finished researching all the hot spots at your wedding destination, let your guests know your picks for a cheap and cheerful feed, a must-visit bar or a good place to grab breakfast the next day. 

Add a Personal Touch to Your Wedding Website

Share your love story 

Maybe not everyone invited to your wedding has been there every step of your relationship. Share a little of your love story on your wedding website and bring your family and friends on the journey! 

Include how you met, when you knew you were all in, how the proposal went down and a few fun facts about each other, coupled with some of your favourite photos together or a showcase of your engagement shoot. This helps to personalise your website and lets your guests know they’re in the right place.

Introduce the wedding party

There’ll probably be a few people at your wedding who don’t know each other, so kick off the introductions with some insight into who is part of your wedding party and why you wanted them by your side. It will help your guests put names to faces and inspire some conversations as they mix and mingle! 

Let Everyone Know What to Expect on Your Wedding Day

Wedding day timeline 

Share when key events will take place during your wedding day, including the timing of things like your ceremony, cocktail hour, reception, speeches, first dance, cake cutting and exit so no one misses a thing! 

Wet weather backup

When everyone has their eye on the dark clouds rolling in on your wedding day, your phone starts to light up with messages just as you’re popping the champs: 

*ping* Looks like rain, what’s the plan? 

*ping* Will the ceremony still be outside? 

*ping* Should we bring an umbrella?

Including your wet weather contingency on your wedding website will help things go smoothly, even when they aren’t – and keep that blissful wedding bubble intact. You can share details of the alternate location, how guests will be notified of the change (“We’ll text you by 10am the morning of the wedding to confirm any change of location.”), and who to contact with questions (definitely not you!). 

Virtual wedding information

If you’re planning to live stream your celebration, your virtual wedding guests will need a guide on how and when to access the stream, and who to contact if they have trouble connecting. You don’t want grandma to miss out on witnessing your ceremony due to technical difficulties! 

Photography and video

Are you happy for your guests to capture photos and video at your wedding? Do you want to be the first to share the news on social media? Whatever your preference, let them know on your wedding website. 

Unplugged wedding details

If you want a device-free celebration, our list of unplugged wedding wording ideas will help you find the perfect way to say so. 

Social media sharing

Keen for your guests to get snapping? Mention your wedding hashtag so they know what to use when posting to their socials. 

If you’d like everyone to share their photos from your wedding to a live feed so all the happy snaps are saved in one place, include those details too. This will also let your virtual guests to follow along from afar!

Catering

Give your guests a preview of your wedding menu! Can they expect canapes, a three course meal or food trucks? Will you be having a dry wedding, cash bar, open bar or BYO? Adding these details to your wedding website will let your guests know the vibe you’re going for and what if anything they need to bring.

Entertainment

Build anticipation for your big day by sharing whether there’ll be dancing, live music or other activities for your guests to enjoy. They’ll already be excited to see you get married, so any entertainment will be the cherry on top!

Make a Wedding Website Your Guests Will Rave About

We couldn’t imagine going over all these wedding details with every guest and trying to keep track of who knows what. Not only is a wedding website the quickest and easiest way to communicate with your guests, most importantly it lets them access your wedding information when and where they need it. 

Thanks again to Say I do for sponsoring this story. Not only can you create a beautiful and helpful wedding website that’s personalised to your style and celebration, you can manage everything from RSVPs to FAQs. We think you and your guests will be impressed by the wedding planning features Say I do has to offer!

Want to help our readers plan awesome weddings by partnering with us on content like this? Find out more about our editorial opportunities.

The post 30 Important Details to Put on Your Wedding Website appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

]]>
The Best Men’s Wedding Ring Metals Compared: Gold, Platinum, Tungsten, Titanium & More https://theweddingplaybook.com/best-mens-wedding-ring-metals-compared/ Thu, 30 May 2024 03:46:36 +0000 https://theweddingplaybook.com/?p=41917 Confused about which men’s wedding ring metal is the best fit for your life and style? Let’s clear things up!  From the timeless appeal of gold and platinum to the modern strength of tungsten and […]

The post The Best Men’s Wedding Ring Metals Compared: Gold, Platinum, Tungsten, Titanium & More appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

]]>
The Best Men's Wedding Ring Metals Compared: Gold, Platinum, Tungsten, Titanium & More | Men's Rings Online

Confused about which men’s wedding ring metal is the best fit for your life and style? Let’s clear things up! 

From the timeless appeal of gold and platinum to the modern strength of tungsten and titanium, we’re comparing the most popular metals to make choosing the right wedding band simple.

Whether you’re indoorsy, outdoorsy, tinkering in the garage or tapping away on a keyboard, we’ve got recommendations for every requirement thanks to Mens Rings Online

​What are the most popular metals used in men’s wedding rings?

The most popular metals for men’s wedding rings are gold (yellow, white and rose), platinum, tungsten and titanium. Each offers its own unique symbolism, durability and style. 

Here married men share why they chose a particular metal, what it represents to them and how it has weathered life’s adventures so far. 

Gold: The Timeless Classic

Since the first civilisations, gold has been a precious commodity. Generations have invested in gold jewellery to be passed down as heirlooms, which speaks to its timeless quality.

When men’s wedding rings were first popularised by Western soldiers during World War II to remind them of their loved ones back home, 9ct gold ‘Utility’ wedding bands went into production

Gold is also traditionally gifted on the 50th wedding anniversary. So the exchange of a gold ring on your wedding day not only symbolises the beginning of your journey together, but the promise of an enduring love.

What men wearing gold wedding bands say: 

“I wanted a classic, no-frills look. Gold is always appropriate, complements nearly everything and never goes out of style.”

“My father and grandfather both wore a gold ring, so it feels like a connection to my family and a promise of continuity.”

“I don’t see the need for anything more durable than my gold ring. It does get scratched, but that gives it character. I like the idea that each scuff or ding represents a part of our journey together.”

“I’m not a jewellery kind of guy so I just wanted something subtle. Gold is lightweight so I barely notice it’s on.”

“As a chemist, I wear gold because it cannot be dissolved by most acids and is not magnetic, which makes it ideal for my work.” 

“I’ve been wearing my gold ring for almost 20 years and trust it will last a lifetime.”

The Best Men's Wedding Ring Metals Compared: Gold, Platinum, Tungsten, Titanium & More | Men's Rings Online

Platinum: The Ultimate Luxury

Historically reserved for the wealthy, platinum is the definition of luxury. Cartier innovated platinum jewellery design in 1890 and it soon became synonymous with high-end fashion. 

Just like your relationship, this metal is built to go the distance. Linked with the 20th and 70th wedding anniversaries, platinum symbolises the strong and rare nature of a decades-long union.

Unlike gold, a platinum wedding band doesn’t weaken from scuffs and dings. As platinum becomes timeworn, the metal only displaces instead of reducing in thickness. It also develops a coveted satiny appearance known as patina.

What men wearing platinum wedding bands say: 

“I think of my platinum wedding band as an investment. I preferred the colour to white gold and like that it’s incredibly durable.”

“I was looking for a long-lasting, silver-toned ring, so platinum was the best choice.”

“It was important to my partner and I that our bands were made out of the same metal, so we picked platinum.”

“I wanted my wedding band to change and reflect what we’ve been through together. After 15 years my platinum ring has a nice patina of nicks and scratches, which is a good visual metaphor for our relationship.”

Tungsten: The Durable Powerhouse

Tungsten is known for its high resistance to scratching and deformation, symbolising permanence and resilience. 

Considered the strongest metal used in men’s wedding rings, tungsten has a hardness rating of 8-9 out of 10 on the Mohs scale that’s second only to diamonds. 

Able to hold their shape and shine longer than most rings, this strength also makes it brittle, meaning it can crack on hard impact. So while not indestructible, it’s still tough enough to handle everyday wear and tear. 

With a similar weight on the hand to gold, its durability and affordability have made it a popular option for men’s wedding rings in recent years. 

What tungsten wedding band wearers are saying: 

“I’ve gone for tungsten as I like the industrial look. Simple, sleek and virtually unbreakable.”

“It’s nice and heavy, never scratches or gets dirty. It still has a mirror finish like the day I bought it years ago.”

“I’ve been camping, biking and canoeing with my tungsten ring and it still looks flawless.”

“I chose a tungsten wedding ring as it was inexpensive for the look I wanted.”

“As an engineer who designs components using tungsten carbide, I had to go for it.”

Titanium: The Modern Marvel

Lightweight but incredibly strong, choosing titanium for your wedding band represents the solid foundation your marriage is built on.

A modern metal choice used in everything from aerospace components to surgical implants, it’s ideal for men who don’t usually wear rings or aren’t keen on bulky bands. It also has the unique ability to be anodized to almost any colour.

Like tungsten, titanium is more durable than gold and platinum. With a Mohs hardness rating of 6 out of 10, a titanium wedding ring can withstand all the stresses of life without weighing you down.

What titanium wedding band wearers are saying: 

“I’ve worn a titanium band for at least 10 years. I use it to open beer bottles and you can’t even tell.”

“I don’t wear other jewellery and didn’t want anything valuable I might damage or lose. Titanium’s affordability made it the best choice for me.”

“My titanium band is understated and minimal. It’s taken its share of scratches but is still in great shape and cleans up well.”

“Titanium’s lightness won me over. I did consider tungsten but having never worn a ring, it felt too heavy.” 

“My titanium ring gets scratched, but I love the brushed metal look. It has character.”

The Best Men's Wedding Ring Metals Compared: Gold, Platinum, Tungsten, Titanium & More | Men's Rings Online

​What are some alternatives to metal men’s wedding rings?

Men’s rings made from ceramic and silicone are proving popular wedding band alternatives due to their unique advantages. 

Ceramic: The Innovative Alternative

This isn’t your grandma’s fine bone china! 

The high-performance ceramic used in men’s wedding rings is also known as titanium carbide, which has a similar hardness to tungsten but is lightweight like titanium. 

Symbolising modernity and innovation, its sleek appearance and unique properties make it ideal for anyone who likes the metal look but needs a hypoallergenic or non-conductive alternative. 

If you’re considering a black ring, ceramic is a fantastic choice as it’s a uniform colour all the way through. That means if it does scratch, it won’t reveal anything different underneath. 

What men wearing ceramic wedding bands say:

“My ceramic ring is unique without being flashy. It’s surprisingly strong and has survived being smashed, thrown and dropped.”

“I like that I don’t have to worry about bridging circuits when I’m working on electronics wearing my ceramic band.”

Silicone: The Practical Choice

Representing practicality and safety, silicone wedding rings are often chosen as a secondary band by men with active lifestyles or professions where traditional metal rings might pose a risk. 

Durable, flexible and almost undetectable on the finger, silicone needs little care. Any water, sweat or dirt buildup can easily be cleaned – just throw it in the dishwasher!

What men wearing silicone wedding bands say:

“My silicone ring has worked well for my outdoor activities and hands-on career. I like that I don’t have to remember to remove it for certain jobs.”

“I always wear a silicone ring. It simplifies life by removing the worry of damaging a metal ring.”

The Best Men's Wedding Ring Metals Compared: Gold, Platinum, Tungsten, Titanium & More | Men's Rings Online

What is the best metal for a men’s wedding band?

So we know the popular picks for men’s rings, but which one comes out on top? We’ve rated each metal on a bunch of lifestyle factors so you can find a wedding band that ticks all the boxes.

Best for scratch resistance

Don’t want your wedding ring to show its age or rough-and-tumble life? Keep your band looking brand new by choosing a metal with superior resistance to surface abrasions. 

  1. Tungsten: Extremely hard-wearing and virtually scratch-proof​. 
  2. Ceramic: Highly resistant to scratches, maintaining a pristine appearance​ over time. 

Best for crack resistance

Limit the need to replace or repair your wedding band after hard knocks by choosing a metal with high tensile strength. 

  1. Platinum: Very high crack resistance due to its density and malleability.
  2. Titanium: High crack resistance with an outstanding strength to weight ratio.

Best for low-maintenance 

Regular polishing or rhodium plating? You haven’t got the time! 

If you want a no-fuss wedding ring that looks as good as the day you bought it, here are three metals we recommend. 

  1. Tungsten: Will retain its lustre even when worn everyday. 
  2. Titanium: Resistant to tarnish and requires minimal upkeep.
  3. Platinum: A white metal that doesn’t need to be buffed, polished or replated. 
  4. Ceramic: Excellent corrosion resistance, maintaining its colour and shine. 

Best for resizing

Our fingers don’t always stay the same size as we age. Metals like titanium and tungsten aren’t solderable or resizable, so you’d need to purchase a replacement wedding ring if the original no longer fits. 

Not keen on the prospect of trading in this sentimental band? Two time-honoured metals are your best choice. 

  1. Gold: Easily resized by jewellers to accommodate changes in finger size over time​. 
  2. Platinum: Can be resized, though it’s more costly compared to gold​. This is because it has a higher melting point and requires a separate set of abrasives and buffs used only on platinum to get the best finish. 

Best for removing in an emergency

It’s an urban legend that a tungsten or titanium ring can’t be removed without taking your finger with it (ouch). 

Whether using a ring cutter or vice grip locking pliers, emergency responders and hospitals are generally equipped to cut or crack your ring off no matter the metal. 

The difference is repair after the fact. While tungsten and titanium rings will be shattered and need to be replaced, gold and platinum rings can be cut and remolded. 

Best for sensitive skin

If you have a metal allergy or struggle with temperamental skin, hypoallergenic alternatives mean you can still wear a wedding ring without the reaction. 

These three materials are known for their skin-friendly properties. No itchiness, redness, bumps or blisters here! 

  1. Titanium: This metal’s biocompatibility makes it the go-to for medical-grade applications like implants and plates. 
  2. Platinum: 85% to 95% purity makes this precious metal naturally hypoallergenic​. 
  3. Ceramic: Guaranteed not to react with the skin as it doesn’t contain any metal alloys like copper, nickel or cobalt.

Best for hands-on jobs

Men working in trades, hospitality, medical, personal training, law enforcement and emergency services may prefer a wedding band that’s less likely to damage or deform under stress. 

  1. Tungsten: Extreme wear-resistance suitable for heavy-duty work environments. 
  2. Titanium: Strong but light, offering durability and comfort for physical jobs.​
  3. Ceramic: Tough and non-conductive, making it a top choice especially for electricians. 
  4. Silicone: Often designed to break away at a certain amount of pressure.

Ultimately, safety is the key priority here. 

When using tools or machinery, it’s best to remove your wedding ring or swap it for a silicone band. You can always wear it on a necklace chain or clip it on a carabiner when doing anything that calls for no jewellery. 

Best for office workers

You don’t need to worry about wear and tear from work tasks, so your choice of wedding band will depend on personal taste and how it goes with other accessories like watches and bracelets.

  1. Platinum: Offers a high-end look that complements formal attire.
  2. Gold: A classic choice well-suited to a corporate environment​​. 
  3. Titanium: Lightweight and durable, providing a balance of style and practicality. ​

Best for gym workouts

Pinched skin, swelling hands, scraping or warping of your band…there are a few unique hazards to your wedding ring and finger when working out. 

Reduce the risk of injury and ring damage at the gym with these three options. 

  1. Silicone: A comfortable and safe choice, especially when lifting weights. 
  2. Tungsten: Strong and sturdy, there’s no need to worry about scratches and dents.
  3. Titanium: Won’t get bent out of shape and is barely detectable on your finger.

Best for outdoor activities

Want a truly go-anywhere, do-anything ring to suit your active lifestyle? These wedding bands are a robust and reliable choice for exploring the great outdoors.

As less expensive materials, they’re also less stress to replace if your ring decides to go off on its own adventure. 

  1. Tungsten: Unlikely to scuff even when worn in rugged environments​. 
  2. Titanium: Its lightness makes it ideal for active use without discomfort.
  3. Silicone: Reduces the risk of injury during more intense physical activities like rock climbing and mountain biking. 

Best for water exposure

If you’re not one to take your wedding ring off to shower or swim, you’ll want to pick a material that will resist tarnishing when exposed to fresh water, saltwater or chlorine.

  1. Titanium: High corrosion-resistance prevents it from degrading when worn for water activities. 
  2. Platinum: A durable choice that doesn’t tarnish from water exposure. 
  3. Ceramic: Can withstand harsh conditions and corrosive environments.
  4. Silicone: Naturally waterproof, inexpensive and easy to clean​.
The Best Men's Wedding Ring Metals Compared: Gold, Platinum, Tungsten, Titanium & More | Men's Rings Online

Can a man have multiple wedding bands?

Absolutely! There’s nothing wrong with getting multiple wedding rings, especially if you want the best of function and style. 

Your ‘forever band’ is usually an investment piece made from premium materials. Worn on formal occasions or in professional environments, it can also be passed down as a family heirloom.

If you want an alternative ring for physical jobs, travel, outdoor activities or gym workouts, you can opt for a cheaper metal band or fit-for-purpose material like ceramic or silicone. 

Which men’s wedding ring is right for you? 

As I’m sure you can tell, there’s not really one ring to rule them all (sorry Frodo). 

Whether you like the timeless appeal of gold, luxurious elegance of platinum, rugged durability of tungsten or lightweight strength of titanium, there’ll be a perfect metal to match your personal style and daily routine.

Thanks to Mens Rings Online for making this article possible. They offer the largest range of mens wedding rings in Australia to suit all tastes and budgets.

The post The Best Men’s Wedding Ring Metals Compared: Gold, Platinum, Tungsten, Titanium & More appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

]]>
The Best Wedding Planning Advice from a Just Married Wedding Blogger https://theweddingplaybook.com/wedding-planning-advice-from-a-just-married-wedding-blogger/ Tue, 10 Oct 2023 02:20:39 +0000 https://theweddingplaybook.com/?p=41097 When it was my turn to walk down the aisle, I’d been lucky enough to interview hundreds of newlyweds about their wedding planning advice. Their candid sharing of what they’d do the same and differently […]

The post The Best Wedding Planning Advice from a Just Married Wedding Blogger appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

]]>

When it was my turn to walk down the aisle, I’d been lucky enough to interview hundreds of newlyweds about their wedding planning advice.

Their candid sharing of what they’d do the same and differently if they could hit replay on their big day helped my partner and I decide what we wanted for our celebration.

Now I’d love to return the favour by sharing the biggest learnings from my own wedding planning. Here’s what a wedding blogger, qualified event planner, chronic overthinker, creative soul and work-in-progress perfectionist thinks you should know before you tie the knot! 

Focus your budget and time on the wedding details that mean something to you.

Besides cultural or religious considerations, there’s nothing you need to do or have on your wedding day except a legal ceremony. 

Start by stripping back everything you think a wedding should be and exploring what holds meaning for you. You want to have a good reason why you’re including particular details and traditions because it all costs money and it all takes time!

That way, if you need to make any compromises to keep your wedding budget in check, the stuff you really care about will already be noted as non-negotiables and first in line for funding. 

Wedding planning is much more fun when you’re not just organising things out of obligation!

How to Plan the Wedding You Want - Instant Download

How to Plan the Wedding You Want – Instant Download

$9.00

This essential guide is filled with thought-provoking questions for you and your love to answer together to create a picture of the wedding you really want. It will help you set your top priorities, discover your dream wedding venue, reveal your unique wedding style and gather all your ideas in one place so you’re ready to share with your family, friends and suppliers.

Decide what to plan together with your partner and what you’ll divide and conquer.  

There are lots of ways to share fun wedding planning experiences with your partner – organise engagement portraits, take dance lessons, listen to musicians live, enjoy cake tasting and menu sampling. So chat about what you’d like to do together (and separately) before you get started.

If there are aspects of the wedding you or your partner aren’t as interested in, that’s ok! You don’t both need to be involved in every decision. In fact, it will make the list of tasks feel less overwhelming if you’re each researching different details and then sharing your finds with one another.

Encourage creative input from your wedding suppliers. 

Something we hear all the time from newlyweds is to book wedding suppliers whose work you love, and then let them do their thing. I’m a big advocate for this too!

Be open to hearing your suppliers’ ideas as they can come up with things you didn’t think were possible or that are even better than your original plans. You’re collaborating with very clever people, so giving them some creative freedom can also help you get the most out of your budget. 

If I’d tried to specify which blooms my florist used in her arrangements, I would’ve either gotten exactly what I expected, been disappointed if they weren’t seasonally at their best or surprised by how little bang I got for my buck. Instead, her artistry ran wild throughout our venue and it was the most special reveal when we saw the enchanting space she’d created. Sometimes it’s nice to be surprised!

Build some flexibility into your wedding day vision.

Inspiration boards are a fantastic wedding planning tool but there may be times when you need to adjust your vision to suit what’s available, affordable or achievable.

The wedding styling I had in mind couldn’t be perfectly replicated as I needed to work with what local suppliers had in their collections. Understandably, it’s not possible for them to have every Pinterest-worthy detail in their inventory!

The end result looked a little more rustic than I initially envisioned, but no less beautiful. And given the time and cost of finding exact matches, this was one thing to let go. Because even though some elements were swapped out, we added others that were unique to our suppliers and that made our wedding decor even more magical.

Try not to second guess your decisions, even if they’re quick ones. 

Once you’ve made a decision, don’t keep shopping around. There’s enough on the to do list as it is! If you’re like me, you might end up asking yourself multiple times whether you’ve made the right choice. My epiphany was that the other options weren’t necessarily going to make our day better, just different. 

So my advice is to take the win! Stop looking and don’t second guess. There’s always a hundred different ways you could plan your day, but you have to choose one.

Personally, I found a wedding dress I loved, but I also felt like I couldn’t be sure if it was ‘The One’ after visiting only one store. With just four months until the big day, I had to be decisive. If I walked away from it and it wasn’t there tomorrow, would I be disappointed?

I’m the kind of person who will research absolutely every option before making a decision, so it was a big leap for me to commit with still so much unknown. But did I ever regret my choice? Absolutely not!

Take a step back to see the big picture if you start feeling overwhelmed.

Wedding planning is a massive job. It’s likely the largest event you’ll ever plan! There’ll be times when you’ll wonder whether it’s even possible to get through the seemingly endless list of tasks. How does another job get added every time you cross one off?

If you’re stressing about something, ask yourself whether it’s an essential part of your big picture. If not, ditch it and don’t look back! If the answer is yes, take a break and tackle it again later, or seek some help to share the load. You’ll need to step away sometimes and that’s ok.

There’s really no such thing as perfect, so don’t put that pressure on yourself. Do the best you can and know that’s enough. As long as you enjoy your time with your partner and loved ones on your wedding day, that’s what will stay with you.

Choose how you want to involve loved ones in your wedding planning.

It’s wonderful when friends and family are keen to be involved in the wedding planning. But some may offer help that isn’t quite what you need or want. Rather than saying no, think about how best to include them and redirect their enthusiasm!

As for anyone who tends to offer their not-so-helpful opinions on anything and everything? Don’t feel guilty about holding back on details that may start a debate. Instead, keep the specifics to your inner circle and let everyone else be delightfully surprised on the day!

I think my grandma might have questioned us breaking tradition by spending the night before the wedding together, so I didn’t bring it up. However I knew she would love going wedding dress shopping with me, and now it’s a special memory I’ll always cherish. 

Be ready for anything on your wedding day by planning for the worst case scenario. 

It’s not fun to think about what could go wrong on one of the most special days of your life. Unexpected costs, bad weather, equipment failures, delayed arrivals, mud on your outfit…no wonder those wedding fears keep you awake at night! But if you’ve thought about it and made a plan for it, nothing can get in the way of a positive experience.

We woke up to the most dreary of days on our wedding morning, but it didn’t burst our happy bubble. Couldn’t we see the pouring rain outside? Yeah, but we’d already prepared for wet weather and all that was left to do was make the best of it!

And when the power went out before the caterers had made dinner? That wasn’t on our list of nightmare scenarios! We’ve never been more grateful to be working with the pros when they said, “Don’t worry, we’ll sort it.”

Leave space for last minute tasks in the final weeks before your wedding. 

Try to have the majority of your wedding planning finalised a month before. Those last four weeks will fly by and little extras tend to pop up that you’ll need to find time for. 

If you can, take a couple of days off work before the wedding to get all the last details finalised and savour the experience. It makes setup so much less stressful, and for us it meant we didn’t go into the day already exhausted. The final build up to your big day is surprisingly tiring! 

Hire a wedding day coordinator to manage the logistics so you don’t have to.

The only thing you should be busy with on your wedding morning is enjoying getting ready with your loved ones. You’ll be watching the clock enough already!

If you don’t have an on the day coordinator, you’ll need help from someone who is not in your wedding party to be a point of contact for suppliers and guests, managing set up, answering queries and troubleshooting any issues. 

When a glass sign smashed in a sudden wind gust, the DJ was missing a table, the candles needed lighting and the heating needed turning up, my family of practical planners helped out. I thought we had everything covered – and technically, we did. But in hindsight, we really should’ve hired a wedding coordinator who could’ve managed any unexpected issues for us behind the scenes. Then none of our guests would’ve been pulled away from the experience, even for a moment.

Express what marriage really means to you in personalised wedding vows. 

Personalising your wedding vows is so worth it. It gives you an opportunity to really think about what you value in your partnership and want to promise to each other. It’s the foundation of your commitment to one another and what you wish for your future together.

I loved working with my husband on our vows. It was an important reminder of why we were planning the wedding in the first place and made our ceremony even more intimate.

How to Write Your Personal Wedding Vows - Instant Download

How to Write Your Personal Wedding Vows – Instant Download

$9.00

Want to write your own wedding vows but don’t know where to start, what to include and most importantly, how to make it sound good? Our step-by-step guide How to Write Your Personal Wedding Vows contains EVERY vow starter and thought prompter you need to draw the words out of your heart and on to paper (no generic promises here!). In an hour you’ll have your own heartstring-tugging wedding vows that will make you both laugh and cry. “I’m SO happy with the vows I wrote using this guide. I loved that the words were coming from me, instead of the internet.…

Enjoy planning what matters to you, even if it doesn’t matter to others. 

Many newlyweds say the little things don’t matter, that no one will notice them, so don’t waste time worrying about them. While these are wise words when you’re agonising over tablecloth lengths (yes, I went there), if there are details that will make your heart happy, you should make them happen! 

We had guests compliment the flowers, lighting, food, music and family wedding photo gallery on the night – the gold cutlery we used even inspired someone to purchase their own set! Different people will appreciate different things. All that really matters is that you enjoy the process and are excited to see the end result. 

Give yourselves time to rest and reflect on your honeymoon.

Please don’t feel like your honeymoon has to be a huge overseas holiday to be special. If your wedding is the reason to plan the trip of a lifetime, go for it! But relaxation and romance can be enjoyed in any destination. 

My partner and I spent a week sequestered away in a luxury villa only a few hours from home and it still felt like a blissful escape from the everyday.   

On the other side of the emotional high of the wedding day can be the need to do…not very much at all. I’m usually always up for an adventure, but in hindsight definitely didn’t have the energy for jet lag, packed itineraries or city hopping logistics. 

Plus, if you’ve felt like your wedding day has gone by in a blur, a lower-key honeymoon gives you and your partner time to enjoy reflecting on the day, looking through photos and savouring the moment before you begin the next chapter together. You might even feel some sadness that your wedding day is over – there’ll be time to acknowledge that too.

More and more couples are opting for minimoons and replenishing their bank accounts before jetting off to their next bucket list location. But there’s no right way to getaway, just your way!

NOW READ: Top 5 Honeymoon Mistakes to Avoid

Say thank you to your guests at your earliest opportunity. 

Thank you cards are a small gesture with big meaning to the people who have joined you on your wedding day and thoughtfully given gifts. 

It can feel like a mission to write handwritten notes for each of your guests, but it leaves a lasting impression. Record who gave which gift as you open them and make it your first priority after the wedding or honeymoon to start working your way through the list. 

To streamline the process, we asked our wedding stationer to design thank you postcards at the same time as our invitations with our names and address printed on them. This saved on postage costs, helped us keep our messages short and sweet and meant we didn’t have to write out our contact details every time. I also liked that the wedding experience started and ended the same way for our loved ones – with a special delivery in the mail! 

Finally, we prepared a few common lines to begin every card that we then paired with a personalised note to show our appreciation for their attendance, gift or congratulations. I still got the occasional hand cramp, but I enjoyed signing off our wedding day this way. 

I hope this helps you with your wedding planning as much as those who got hitched before helped me!

Danielle x

The post The Best Wedding Planning Advice from a Just Married Wedding Blogger appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

]]>
What is pre-marriage counselling and do we need it? https://theweddingplaybook.com/what-is-pre-marriage-counselling-and-do-we-need-it/ Tue, 05 Sep 2023 01:49:58 +0000 https://theweddingplaybook.com/?p=41040 I must admit I’ve always been on the fence about relationship counselling. I wasn’t sure how I felt about someone poking around in my personal business. And as a couple with a few years behind […]

The post What is pre-marriage counselling and do we need it? appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

]]>
What is pre-marriage counselling and do we need it?

I must admit I’ve always been on the fence about relationship counselling. I wasn’t sure how I felt about someone poking around in my personal business. And as a couple with a few years behind us, haven’t we discussed the big ticket items already? Where we want to live, work and travel, whether we want kids, how we’ll manage money and support each other’s dreams? So chatting with couples counsellor Emanuel Perdis was a bit of an eye opener.

We all have stuff we bring into a relationship. Some we’ve dealt with, some we’ve parked and some unpacks itself when we least expect it. And your partner has their stuff, some you know about and some you don’t. Then there’s your relationship and what you’re making together.

What if you could address concerns and resolve arguments before they happen? That’s where pre-marriage counselling comes in. Instead of waiting until a big bust up, when feelings are hurt and tensions are high, you could avoid it altogether – or at least know how to work through it together. 

Emanuel Perdis has had many brides share their anxiety and stress with him during wedding planning, which inspired him to offer pre-marriage counselling online. Now he helps couples gain the insights and tools to manage whatever life brings and make the most important partnership of their lives even stronger. 

Here he answers all of your biggest pre-marriage counselling questions, from what it is to how it works and whether you really need it. 

What is pre-marriage counselling?

Pre-marriage counselling is about making sure your relationship, like a home, is built on strong foundations.

That it’s constructed mindfully from the ground up, taking into account the inherent weaknesses of the home’s site. These weak points may be past traumas, wounds or sensitivities acquired through temperament, personality or experiences.

You want to make sure you’re double bricking this home and building in those supports from early on. So when the big bad wolf huffs and puffs and tries to blow it down, it will stand. 

There are a lot of pre-nuptial pressures that turn up the heat on the relationship. Couples have a lot at stake and they’re juggling so much, but they can leave it too late to get help.

Pre-marriage counselling is about nipping things in the bud before they become a bigger problem. Instead of suffering years of arguments, issues can be discussed openly and worked out early.

How do I broach the idea of pre-marriage counselling with my partner?

I would simply put it that, hey, getting married is a big commitment and there’s a lot at stake. So why don’t we try it and see if it helps? 

That way, you’re not setting up too much expectation, you’re allowing them to just give counselling a go.

It also depends on what issues you may have. Maybe the wedding planning has turned one partner into a zilla and they’re kind of shocked at themselves and want to look at their patterns of how they cope with stress, concerns and worries.

Or they may want to get some help on their own first. Once the relationship with the counsellor is strengthened, the other partner joins and it becomes a resource to the marriage that they can both lean on.

That’s exactly what happened for my wife and I! 

A bride wearing a low back wedding dress and textured chignon rests her head on her groom's shoulder. His arm is wrapped around her and they hold hands behind her back. Photography: Kaley from Kansas
Photography: Kaley from Kansas

When should we start pre-marriage counselling?

I would say when you’ve paid the deposit for your venue, because it’s gotten real. You can lose that money if something happens between the two of you at the 11th hour because things haven’t been dealt with sooner. 

How do we know we’ve found the right couples counsellor?

They’re qualified and experienced. 

Besides the relevant qualifications, the most important factor would be experience specifically counselling couples. 

It’s not an easy thing to work with two people at the same time. It’s a unique skill set and a knack that you develop. 

It doesn’t really matter what kind of counselling approach they use, as long as they take you through their process so you feel comfortable with how it works. 

They’re easy to talk to.

The three of you become a team working on your relationship, so it’s essential that you feel a connection with your counsellor. It’s a good idea for you both to speak with them before your first session.

Their gender isn’t always a consideration, but it can sometimes make it harder for one partner to open up, especially if there’s a sense that they’ve been made to feel wrong in the relationship.

You should each feel that they’re fair, reasonably wise and able to adjudicate. Like you’ve got somebody in your corner you can turn to that’s impartial, helpful and supportive.

They’re invested in your relationship. 

While it’s possible to work on what you’re each bringing into the marriage through individual sessions, couples counselling isn’t about one partner or the other.

Ultimately the counsellor should treat your relationship as their client. Rather than taking sides, they should be seeking whatever remedies are needed from either partner to nourish it.

They’ve walked the talk.

My wife and I used to snicker at the fact that our counsellor had been married three times. Well at least he knows what goes wrong! 

We’re personally going for our 25th anniversary this year, so having a relationship that’s worked but has also been through the pain points means I can bring a unique perspective.

I think lived experience brings a lot of value to couples counselling.

Two grooms wearing suits embrace one another during their wedding portraits, resting their heads on each other's shoulders. | Photography: Alen Karupovic via Junebug Weddings
Photography: Alen Karupovic via Junebug Weddings

How does an online couples counselling session work?

The value of counselling lies in the connection, relationship and process, so online sessions work no differently and are just as effective as face to face. 

If you’re feeling a little bit raw, there can be an advantage to not having a counsellor in your face.

The added flexibility and convenience is also helpful for busy couples as their schedules don’t impede the commitment to counselling.

What can be discussed in a pre-marriage counselling session?

I like to always start with what keeps rearing its head as an unresolved or repeat argument.

If they haven’t experienced that, I take my couples through a stress test of common scenarios and see what they’ve discussed, agreed upon or arrived at. That always tends to shake the tree and bring a number of fruits to the ground.

And last but not least, I help them see what their strengths and weaknesses are, what to beware of and what resources they can use to counter that.

Do we need pre-marriage counselling if we feel like our relationship is fine? 

I’m sceptical of relationships that haven’t had many arguments. Because I feel like they’ve either had the blessing of fair weather or the couple may be conflict avoidant. 

There’s nothing wrong with calm seas, but then you don’t know what the storms hold for you. Life circumstances like an engagement, a change of job, a child or moving house stress test the relationship and help it grow and adjust.

You also can’t have two individuals who operate as whole people with their own wishes, tastes, preferences, needs and interests agree on everything. So the question is, “Why haven’t there been arguments?” 

It’s often someone giving in and giving up and that’s going to catch up with you at some point.

Having had couples counselling with my wife, I know the immense value it’s had in making our life together happy but also making us happy as individuals.

A newly married couple is seated at their reception listening to speeches. The bride leans into the groom as he kisses her on the temple. | Photography: Sarah Falugo via Brides
Photography: Sarah Falugo via Brides

Do we need to come with a question or problem to our couples counselling session? 

No, because one of the first things I always ask is, “What has happened in your lives the last few weeks?”.

Because that proves to be a microcosm of the relationship. There’s so much to unpack from any recent disagreements as you can see the stress points and seeds for future arguments.

Are we talking about one partner’s perfectionism? Are we talking about another’s  insecurity? 

There’s a lot of things that little spats reveal once you put the magnifying glass on, like issues of self-worth, dominance and power patterns. 

So the small fights in between sessions prove to be most helpful because they provide really fertile opportunities to fix things.

How many pre-marriage counselling sessions do we need to commit to?

I usually work in blocks of six to eight sessions at a time. 

If a couple is troubled with particular issues, we’ll do weekly sessions. Otherwise we’ll do fortnightly and review at the end of the block.

If they need another few sessions before the wedding, we can add that in. And then we’ll usually do a post-honeymoon catch up to see if there’s anything they’d like to work on.

You then join the ranks of their speed dial for when they hit a bump or a snag, because you’ve built that relationship and they trust you.

How can pre-marriage counselling benefit our relationship? 

Pre-marriage counselling means your relationship is supported, strengthened, mindfully protected and cared for.

You’ll feel heard.

It can be helpful to have yourself translated to your partner so they can understand you better, especially if you’re finding it hard to communicate effectively with one another. 

The mediating influence of a counsellor can be really therapeutic if you feel like you’re speaking different languages. 

You’ll feel connected. 

We have so much technological distraction in our palms and pockets that can negatively affect the way we engage with one another. 

Making it a habit through counselling to connect on an emotional level and nurture that intimacy will benefit you now and in the future. 

You’ll feel confident. 

I think it takes a couple of decades to really know each other. 

But if you invest time in those early days to have deep conversations and explore hypothetical scenarios, it can build your confidence in your ability to navigate the trials of life together. 

Having a clean bill of relationship health can be really affirming.

Two brides wearing wedding dresses embrace one another while seated on a clifftop overlooking the mountains. | Photography: Henry Tieu
Photography: Henry Tieu

Why are you passionate about counselling couples? 

As a counsellor, you’re able to influence so many people generationally.

Not only are you helping the couple navigate the choppy waters that come with any relationship, but their friends and family have something to look towards as a model of a healthier relationship. Their kids get the benefits of having happier parents. 

I’ve seen the effects on adults of growing up with parents who didn’t have healthy relationship patterns and behaviours and what it’s done to them and how it’s impacted them.

That’s why I feel couples counselling is really amazing because I can help the greatest amount of people for the longest period of time.

Thanks to Emanuel Perdis for answering all of our pre-marriage counselling questions! You can book an online session (with a money back guarantee) here.

The post What is pre-marriage counselling and do we need it? appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

]]>
What Makes a Bad Wedding? These Are the Biggest Wedding Guest Complaints https://theweddingplaybook.com/wedding-guest-complaints/ Fri, 26 Aug 2022 06:32:47 +0000 https://theweddingplaybook.com/?p=40761 Your loved ones would probably NEVER tell you if there was something they didn’t like about your wedding. And even if they did (looking at you, Aunt Edith) there’s not a whole lot you can […]

The post What Makes a Bad Wedding? These Are the Biggest Wedding Guest Complaints appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

]]>

Your loved ones would probably NEVER tell you if there was something they didn’t like about your wedding. And even if they did (looking at you, Aunt Edith) there’s not a whole lot you can do about it after the day. 

But the grumbles of disappointed wedding guests can still be heard out of earshot of the happy couple. And sadly, some of those complaints can get brought up for YEARS (let it go, Uncle Rodney). Here are the things wedding guests hate and how to avoid them! 

What Makes a Bad Wedding? These Are the Biggest Wedding Guest Complaints | The Fox and The Hare Photography via Rustic Wedding Chic
The Fox and The Hare Photography via Rustic Wedding Chic

1. Not planning for the weather 

“It was absolutely freezing, so a lot of people left early.”

“We got completely soaked because there wasn’t enough undercover shelter.”

“It was so hot, one poor guest fainted.”

Planning for the seasonal conditions of your wedding is not only a matter of enjoyment for your guests, but of safety. 

Shade and water in summer, heating in winter and a wet weather backup that adequately caters for all of your guests will help everyone have a good time on your big day, no matter the forecast. 

What Makes a Bad Wedding? These Are the Biggest Wedding Guest Complaints | Taryn Grey Photography via Martha Stewart Weddings
Taryn Grey Photography via Martha Stewart Weddings

Yes, your loved ones should hopefully bring their own umbrellas or coats if the radar dictates it. But they’ll also remember the thoughtful details you organised to ensure they felt comfortable and cared for. 

“They had a box of blankets and a fire pit, so we were nice and toasty.”

“It poured with rain, but we were all inside so it didn’t really bother us.”

“The ceremony was outside, but they set up a ‘Hydration Station’ which I thought was a great idea.” 

How to Plan the Wedding You Want - Instant Download

How to Plan the Wedding You Want – Instant Download

$9.00

This essential guide is filled with thought-provoking questions for you and your love to answer together to create a picture of the wedding you really want. It will help you set your top priorities, discover your dream wedding venue, reveal your unique wedding style and gather all your ideas in one place so you’re ready to share with your family, friends and suppliers.

2. Too long between the ceremony and reception 

Formal portraits of the newlyweds, their family and wedding party are usually taken between the ceremony and reception, because the light is at its best and no one’s got spinach in their teeth yet. But this can mean a long wait for the guests before festivities really kick off. 

If you’ve already planned for cocktail hour with drinks, nibbles and some entertainment, your guests will feel well looked after while you’re away. 

What Makes a Bad Wedding? These Are the Biggest Wedding Guest Complaints | April and Paul via Ruffled
April and Paul via Ruffled

But there’s another reason they might not be too fond of a big gap between the ceremony and reception: they’re there to see you! Besides a brief moment for a hug, a kiss and congratulations after the ceremony, your guests haven’t really gotten to celebrate your marriage with you yet. 

We know you want to preserve these special memories on camera, but you also want to spend time with the people who have made the effort to be there with you. So aim to fill your guests’ bellies and glasses in the meantime and not let too much of the party happen without you! 

What Makes a Bad Wedding? These Are the Biggest Wedding Guest Complaints | Leah Nicole Photo via The Magnolia
Leah Nicole Photo via The Magnolia

3. Awkward seating plans 

There’s not much worse as a wedding guest than seeing where you’re seated at the reception and knowing you’re in for a dull night. 

The newlyweds are good friends of yours, but you’re pretty sure they considered putting you on the kids table before squeezing you in next to cousin Felix instead. 

What Makes a Bad Wedding? These Are the Biggest Wedding Guest Complaints | Ali Bailey via Hello May
Ali Bailey via Hello May

We know seating plans can be hard, but it’s worth spending the time to get them right as they can make or break the experience for your wedding guests. A common misconception is that people can always move around if they want, but for a sizeable chunk of a seated reception, they’re stuck in place.

So how do you keep your guests happy? Group together people who know each other and then add who you think they would get along well with. Resist any urge to mix everyone up so they’ll have to meet new people. If your friends and family wanted to spend the night breaking the ice, they would’ve boarded a ship on the Baltic Sea! 

What Makes a Bad Wedding? These Are the Biggest Wedding Guest Complaints | Heirlume Photography
Heirlume Photography

A well constructed seating plan means all you’ll hear is the satisfying sound of guests chatting and laughing amongst themselves. 

4. Not enough seating 

It’s time for another truth bomb. If there are no chairs to sit in at your wedding unless you’re Nanna, things might wrap up earlier than you expected. It’s not that your loved ones haven’t had a good time, it’s just that standing for hours in heels is tiring, and no one is keen to sit on wet grass or grubby carpet in their wedding finery. 

What Makes a Bad Wedding? These Are the Biggest Wedding Guest Complaints | Meg Smith Photography via Martha Stewart Weddings
Meg Smith Photography via Martha Stewart Weddings

You don’t need to be old or have a medical condition to want a moment off your feet. The dance floor devotees will appreciate the break, especially after an enthusiastic Nutbush rendition. And a little further away from the music, others will enjoy hanging out and swapping stories on cosy lounges. 

While your guests might not rave about the fact that you had a heap of seating available at your wedding, they certainly won’t complain there wasn’t enough! 

5. Not enough food

You hear that? That’s the sound of your guests’ stomachs rumbling after the grazing board that was meant to tide everyone over for three hours got demolished in 30 minutes. 

What Makes a Bad Wedding? These Are the Biggest Wedding Guest Complaints | With Megs
With Megs

We’ve heard more than one story about wedding guests making a desperate pit-stop at McDonald’s on the way home to fill the void left by five teeny tiny canapes. The rest got snaffled by the other starving guests who strategically stationed themselves next to the kitchen doors. (Uh, guilty. Desperate times and all that.)

We really don’t like telling couples what to do for their wedding, but we’re going to make an exception this time. Don’t. Skimp. On. The. Food. All your wedding guests will remember is how hungry they were and that’s a real shame when you’ve gone to so much trouble to pull this amazing event together. 

What Makes a Bad Wedding? These Are the Biggest Wedding Guest Complaints | With Love from Near + Far via Nouba
With Love from Near + Far via Nouba

No matter your style of wedding, it’s important to include some more substantial menu options – basically anything that’s served in a box, bowl or on a plate. And if you’re having a buffet, make sure that guests at the back of the queue aren’t left with small, stone cold portions because the first few tables loaded up. More dining means less whining!

6. Long speeches and too many people giving them

Speeches are a time honoured wedding tradition, but if we’re honest, the only people who really, truly enjoy them are the newlyweds. The reason? When it’s time for the first toast, the food is cleared away, the music is turned off and the conversations are put on hold – talk about a bit of a buzzkill.

What Makes a Bad Wedding? These Are the Biggest Wedding Guest Complaints | Carla Penoncelli via Junebug Weddings
Carla Penoncelli via Junebug Weddings

Now, people are used to sitting through speeches at weddings, so why the complaint? Because they can often drag on and on, with too many people speaking and too much time per speaker. Inside references and inappropriate jokes can also quickly turn things cringey. 

Here are our top tips to keep your wedding speeches streamlined. 

  1. Invite one person from each side of your wedding party and each side of your family to speak. You can also opt to share some brief words of thanks as a couple. 
  2. Ask your loved ones to limit their speeches to a maximum of three minutes.
  3. Don’t encourage a free-for-all by offering up the microphone to (usually drunk) spur-of-the-moment speechmakers.
  4. Keep the total time for speeches to under 20 minutes, so we can all get back to partying with you!
What Makes a Bad Wedding? These Are the Biggest Wedding Guest Complaints | Alli Woods via The Asia Collective
Alli Woods via The Asia Collective

7. Not enough free time for socialising

In our next chapter of Good Vibes and How to Kill Them, we’re covering the worst offender: a packed wedding reception timeline.  

It can be tempting to plan out every minute of your wedding and drip feed events throughout, especially if you’re worried about keeping your guests entertained for so many hours. 

But that’s forgetting one thing: that your loved ones are going to be perfectly happy eating, drinking, dancing and catching up with one another. And every planned event interrupts the fun party atmosphere you’ve gone to a lot of effort to create. 

Weddings and traditions go hand in hand, but if you finish up the formalities earlier, you can all enjoy the rest of the celebration without watching the clock. 

What Makes a Bad Wedding? These Are the Biggest Wedding Guest Complaints | Lacie Hansen via Ruffled
Lacie Hansen via Ruffled

Any happily married couple will tell you that a little bit of flexibility and spontaneity goes a long way, so why not build that into your wedding day? It’s often how the best memories are made.

How to Plan the Wedding You Want - Instant Download

How to Plan the Wedding You Want – Instant Download

$9.00

This essential guide is filled with thought-provoking questions for you and your love to answer together to create a picture of the wedding you really want. It will help you set your top priorities, discover your dream wedding venue, reveal your unique wedding style and gather all your ideas in one place so you’re ready to share with your family, friends and suppliers.

The post What Makes a Bad Wedding? These Are the Biggest Wedding Guest Complaints appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

]]>
The Best Online Shops for Bridesmaid Dresses Everyone Will Love https://theweddingplaybook.com/best-online-shops-for-bridesmaid-dresses/ Sun, 03 Apr 2022 10:21:34 +0000 https://theweddingplaybook.com/?p=40570 You want to dress your bridesmaids in outfits they look and feel amazing in. But matching your wedding style, palette and season with the personal budgets and tastes of your besties can sometimes make this […]

The post The Best Online Shops for Bridesmaid Dresses Everyone Will Love appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

]]>
The Best Online Shops for Bridesmaid Dresses

You want to dress your bridesmaids in outfits they look and feel amazing in. But matching your wedding style, palette and season with the personal budgets and tastes of your besties can sometimes make this fun experience trickier than expected.

Here’s our review of the best online shops for bridesmaid dresses delivering both on-trend and timeless designs, so you can enjoy exploring ideas with your wedding party and finding looks everyone will love!

Hey nearlywed! This article is sponsored, but we only recommend businesses we believe are doing great work with great style. Whether they’re a household name or a hidden gem, we bring you the best to save you the search! Thank you for supporting The Wedding Playbook and these wonderful suppliers.

AW Bridal  

The Best Online Shops for Bridesmaid Dresses | AW Bridal

Shipping to USA, Canada, UK, Australia, France, Germany and Italy | Bridesmaid dresses from AW Bridal are a beautiful and affordable option for your wedding! This curated online shop lets you explore their gorgeous range by colour, silhouette, fabric and details. Running extended sizes, they also offer a free customisation service for their gowns. Not sure which colour to go with or want to check your fabric choice? For a nominal fee you can order swatches to feel totally confident in your chosen looks.

Anthropologie

The Best Online Shops for Bridesmaid Dresses | BHLDN

Shipping worldwide | Anthropologie knows how to take it up a notch for your bridesmaid dresses! Their online shop is filled with fashionable looks in lush fabrics like velvet, crepe and satin charmeuse. Whether your heart is set on sleek modern or relaxed bohemian styles, BHLDN’s inclusive sizing and practical fit guide eliminates the guesswork for your wedding party. If you don’t want to miss out on the boutique experience, you can also book a virtual appointment for tailored advice from their expert stylists.

Cicinia 

The Best Online Shops for Bridesmaid Dresses | Cicinia

Shipping worldwide | Your ‘I Do’ Crew is guaranteed a seamless online shopping experience with Cicinia. Create a mix and match look all of your bridesmaids will love with personalised styles in your desired palette. They make it easy for you to search dresses by colour, length, silhouette, neckline, sleeve and fabric and their measurement guide will help you find the perfect fit for everyone. Best of all, Cicinia dresses are budget friendly without compromising on quality!

For Her and For Him

The Best Online Shops for Bridesmaid Dresses | For Her and For Him

Shipping worldwide | Want your besties to look like the goddesses they are and be comfortable in their bridesmaid dresses without the exxy price tag? For Her and For Him is definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for classic, elegant and romantic gowns. Equally suited to a garden party as a glamorous black tie celebration, you can pick your colours and let your bridesmaids choose their own styles.

Dessy

The Best Online Shops for Bridesmaid Dresses | Dessy

Shipping worldwide | Dessy’s huge catalog of bridesmaid dresses means you’re spoiled for choice on everything from formal full-length gowns to party-starting cocktail dresses. They’ve got your entire wedding party covered including junior bridesmaids, flower girls and bridesmaids with a baby on the way! Filter by your favourite details and select from up to 70 stunning colours to create a cohesive look. 

Shona Joy

The Best Online Shops for Bridesmaid Dresses | Shona Joy

Shipping to Australia and New Zealand | Looking for chic, modern dresses your bridesbabes will definitely want to wear again? Shona Joy captures the essence of an effortlessly stylish wedding party in their expert draping of luxurious silk touch and soft matte fabrics. With new silhouettes in trending tones added regularly to their collection, you’ll find a fresh take on bridesmaid style here.

Do you know an amazing online shop for bridesmaid dresses that’s not on this list? Send your tip to team@theweddingplaybook.com!

Want to be part of this story or partner with us on content like this? Find out more about our editorial opportunities.

The post The Best Online Shops for Bridesmaid Dresses Everyone Will Love appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

]]>
How to Write Personal Wedding Vows That Say Everything You Feel https://theweddingplaybook.com/how-to-write-your-own-wedding-vows/ Sun, 23 Jan 2022 05:11:26 +0000 https://theweddingplaybook.com/?p=39907 Lots of couples leave writing their wedding vows until the last minute because let’s be honest, it’s not easy! Trying to express just how much you love this person and the ‘us’ you make with […]

The post How to Write Personal Wedding Vows That Say Everything You Feel appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

]]>

Lots of couples leave writing their wedding vows until the last minute because let’s be honest, it’s not easy! Trying to express just how much you love this person and the ‘us’ you make with them…it can be hard to find the right words.  

Here we cover everything you need to know to turn your thoughts and feelings into deeply personal vows that celebrate the past, present and future of your relationship. 

Whether you work on your vows together or individually, we’ll help you create a stress-free plan to get them done and make them sound as good out loud as they do on paper.

Want to write your own wedding vows but don’t know where to start, what to include and most importantly, how to make it sound good? Our step-by-step guide How to Write Your Personal Wedding Vows contains EVERY vow starter and thought prompter you need to draw the words out of your heart and on to paper (no generic promises here!). In an hour you’ll have your own heartstring-tugging wedding vows that will make you both laugh and cry. 

“I’m SO happy with the vows I wrote using this guide. I loved that the words were coming from me, instead of the internet. I felt like they couldn’t have been written for anyone else but us. And best of all, they made my partner laugh!” 

1. Decide whether your wedding vows will be the same or different. 

You may value each having your own voice, or prefer to speak shared promises. 

My husband and I did a combination of both for our wedding ceremony! 

To acknowledge our partnership, we chose to make the same commitments to one another by exchanging the same promises. And to acknowledge our individuality, we each expressed what we valued most in each other and our relationship from our own perspectives. 

How to Write Your Own Wedding Vows | Photography: Halle Morgan via Engaged Life
Halle Morgan via Engaged Life

2. Discuss whether you’ll write your wedding vows together or separately. 

It does take some pressure off and make for a memorable experience to work with your partner on what you’re going to say in your vows. But there’s also less of a surprise as to what words of love will be spoken, which adds its own special aspect to your ceremony. 

If you want the best of both worlds, you can always write your promises together and declarations of love separately. 

How to Write Your Own Wedding Vows | Photography: Jeff Brummett
Jeff Brummett

3. Choose whether to show your vows to each other before the wedding or keep them secret.

There are a few things you need to think about for this one!

If you’d like your vows to be similar in structure, length and tone, you might want to see each other’s vows before the wedding. This also gives you an opportunity to help each other out if you get stuck.

But there’s a chance comparing vows might make you second guess what you’ve prepared. In this case, it’s important to remember that the words you’ve written represent your genuine feelings and experiences, so they can’t be wrong!

If you do want to keep your vows a secret, you can always share them with your officiant or a loved one who can review both and provide some feedback individually so your vows come together harmoniously on the day. This option means nothing is given away. 

Sharing your vows with each other before the wedding might mean you miss out on the big reveal, but not that the moment will be any less emotional during your ceremony. So this decision really depends on what matters most to you both. You know each other best!

Shop Wedding Vow Books

How to Write Your Own Wedding Vows | Photography: Kayla Esparza
Kayla Esparza

4. Choose how you’ll share your vows during your wedding ceremony. 

There are three main ways your personalised vows can be shared during the ceremony:

Reciting them yourself

No, you don’t need to memorise your vows! It’s totally okay to have a written copy of your vows in hand as a prompt. Even if you’re usually uber-calm or an experienced speechmaker, it’s a highly emotional day, so taking the back up security of notes is a great idea.

Repeat-after-me

This is when your officiant states the vows you’ve written line-by-line so you can repeat after them. Perfect if you still want to say all of your own vows but are worried you’ll spend more time looking at your notes than your partner if you have to read them.

Call-and-response 

This is when the officiant reads the vows you’ve prepared and you confirm your commitment to them by saying, “I do” or, “I will”. A great option if you’re both uncomfortable with public speaking or concerned the emotion of the moment will overwhelm you. 

Many couples worry about how they’ll get through their vows on the day without the tears rolling, but these are a natural reaction no one should feel embarrassed about. They show how much you care about this special person and the promises you’re making to them. 

Even if you need to pause part way through your vows to gather yourself, it’s a beautiful thing to be vulnerable in this moment. When you’re looking into your partner’s eyes as you share your heartfelt words, I guarantee you won’t be thinking about anyone else.

How to Write Your Own Wedding Vows | Photography: Henry Tieu Photography
Henry Tieu Photography

5. Discuss when to have your wedding vows written by to avoid last minute stress. 

Whatever you do, don’t leave writing your vows until the last minute or try to wing it on the day! 

Many couples have stared at a blank page until the morning of their wedding thanks to writer’s block. But no one comes up with their best vows on their first try with a looming ceremony start time. You need time to think, jot down your initial thoughts, turn these notes into vows, review them to make sure you’re happy and read them out loud to see if there are any difficult combinations of words to say. Then you can feel confident you won’t stumble over your words on the day. None of this can happen without at least a couple of weeks to prepare. 

Having them finished at least two weeks before your wedding day means you’ll have enough time to transcribe them into a beautiful vow book. You’ll also be able to practice a couple of times so you’re completely comfortable saying your vows on the day. 

Shop Wedding Ring Boxes

How to Write Your Own Wedding Vows | Photography: Wild Connections Photography
Wild Connections Photography

6. Set a word count for your wedding vows to keep timing even. 

Personally, I think if one person is a born poet and the other just gets to the point, there’s no need to force a partner to say more or less than they want to. As long as it’s from the heart, the length doesn’t really matter. 

You may want to set a maximum amount of words though. Usually a 300 word limit or about two minutes long is a good guide for this part of your ceremony. 

Going through the process of writing your own vows can call out a huge number of things you wish to tell your other half. If you feel like it’s getting too long for the ceremony, or there are some things you’re not comfortable sharing publicly, consider writing it in a letter to give to your partner the morning of the wedding. 

How to Write Your Own Wedding Vows | Photography: Kayla Esparza
Kayla Esparza

7. Chat about what tone your wedding vows will take. 

Again, I’m in the camp that vows should naturally be different in style if they’re being written by different people. 

If one of you is known for their witty jokes and the other for their sentimentality, you don’t want to feel like you need to be someone you’re not and say something you wouldn’t just so your vows are similar. 

But I do get that some couples might be worried they’ll give their guests emotional whiplash if it’s all belly laughs for one and all seriousness for the other.

It’s about finding a balance that feels right for you. Just like there will be highs and lows in your journey together, you can have some light-hearted words amongst more solemn ones in your vows.

How to Write Your Own Wedding Vows | Photography: White On Black Studio via Ruffled
White On Black Studio via Ruffled

Jokes are a great way to share the fun side of your relationship, show how well you know your partner and bring a smile to their face, which can help relieve any nerves! But all things in moderation. If you choose to use humour in your vows, here are some things to think about:

  • While your vows are exchanged in front of friends and family, don’t feel like you need to put on a show to draw laughs from the crowd. Put that quick wit to work for the speeches instead!
  • Always keep in mind where hilarious ends and embarrassing starts. Consider whether your partner would want that funny anecdote shared with everyone, even if you laugh about it together in private. 
  • If you’re getting to some third-tier inside jokes that no one else will follow, or starting to make not-so-subtle references to your bangin’ sex life, that might be better saved for a letter to your partner the morning of the wedding.
  • You still want your partner to know the promises you’re making aren’t a joke. It’s a good idea to finish with a final heartfelt promise that reflects your sincere, unwavering commitment to them.

There are certain phrases you must say verbatim during your ceremony to make your marriage legally binding or reflective of your faith. If you factor these into your vows as you’re writing them, they will flow more naturally. 

How to Write Your Own Wedding Vows | Photography: Phan Tien Photography
Phan Tien Photography

9. Create a structure for your wedding vows to make them easier to write. 

If you want to keep your vows under wraps until you speak them at the ceremony, creating a structure for both of you to follow is a simple way to keep the length and tone similar between your words. 

Like all great stories that finish in “Happily Ever After”, your vows should have a beginning, middle and end:

The Past: How We Got Here

What brought you together and what experiences you’ve shared since that have strengthened your bond. 

The Present: Why I Choose You

What you love about your partner and what they bring to your life. 

The Future: What I Promise You

What your hopes, dreams and commitments are for your future together and what everyday actions you promise to take to nurture your relationship. 

10. Start writing your wedding vows.

When you finally put that pen to paper, don’t overthink it at the start. Everyone communicates how they feel in a different way, and you shouldn’t be afraid to share your story in your own voice.

Your vows also don’t have to be completely original to be personal. Songs, movies, books, poems, quotes and other couples can all be sources of inspiration for your wedding vows.

It may be that not every word they’ve written is the right fit for your relationship, but if a sentence or two really speaks to you, use it as a starting point for your own vows. If you feel like you couldn’t have said it better yourself, don’t try to! 

How to Write Your Own Wedding Vows | Photography: Joe+Kathrina
Joe+Kathrina

What should you say in your wedding vows?

Your wedding vows are a public love letter to your partner. It doesn’t matter if the words you choose are serious, sentimental or a little bit silly. What matters is that they’re true to your personality and relationship. 

Whether you’re inspired to write a few sentences or a few paragraphs to convey what this next step in your journey together looks like, we can help you get those words flowing freely. 

How to Write Your Personal Vows Ebook

The hundreds of questions, prompts and ideas in How to Write Your Personal Wedding Vows will help you tell your love story in your own words to make your vows truly special. There’s no other guide that makes it THIS easy to express what you’re feeling in your heart. 

“I wish I had this guide when I was writing my vows! It’s super easy to follow and there are so many great ideas. They would’ve taken me way less time to write and been even more personalised.” 

You’ll revisit cherished memories from your relationship, revel in the love that brought you to this point and explore your hopes and dreams for your future together. How to Write Your Personal Wedding Vows will take you on this journey and bring you to your destination, your wedding day, where you share your promises with the one you love.

The post How to Write Personal Wedding Vows That Say Everything You Feel appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

]]>
A Jeweler’s Guide to Buying Your Diamond Engagement Ring Online https://theweddingplaybook.com/jewelers-guide-to-buying-a-diamond-engagement-ring-online/ Wed, 27 Oct 2021 15:21:07 +0000 https://theweddingplaybook.com/?p=39835 Shopping for your engagement ring should be fun and exciting, but can often be confusing and stressful – especially if you’re not sure what to look for! Trawling through jewelry shops trying on an endless […]

The post A Jeweler’s Guide to Buying Your Diamond Engagement Ring Online appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

]]>
A Jeweler’s Guide to Buying Your Diamond Engagement Ring Online

Shopping for your engagement ring should be fun and exciting, but can often be confusing and stressful – especially if you’re not sure what to look for!

Trawling through jewelry shops trying on an endless number of designs (all pretty), examining a bunch of very similar looking diamonds (all sparkly) and feeling the pressure to make a purchase on the spot (all pricey) can leave you overwhelmed and empty-handed.

So why not consider buying your diamond engagement ring online? Our guest author and expert jeweler Stefano Navi knows a thing or two about that! Here they share their insights on the difference between lab-grown and mined diamonds, what you really need to know about cut, carat and clarity, and the services on offer to help you select the perfect ring.

Deciding between lab-grown and mined diamonds

If the ethical history and sustainability of your stone are important to you, lab-grown diamonds are the best place to start. Lab-made diamonds are eco-friendly, using less energy and water to produce. They’re also considered real diamonds, being physically and optically identical to a mined diamond, all while being up to 40% more affordable. For example, a 5 carat lab-created diamond costs the same as a 2 carat earth-mined diamond of the same quality. So a lab-grown diamond engagement ring can be a good choice for both your wallet and your conscience!

A Jeweler’s Guide to Buying Your Diamond Engagement Ring Online

Selecting the carat and cut of your diamond engagement ring

If you know you want a standout centre stone for your engagement ring, carat and cut will be important factors in your decision, especially for a solitaire setting. Carat refers to the weight of the diamond you are buying. The larger the carat, the more expensive the diamond will be.

One trick to get a larger stone for less is to consider different diamond shapes beyond the classic round cut. For example, an oval diamond will look larger than a round diamond of the same carat weight because of its elongated shape. An encircling halo of smaller diamonds will also increase the perceived size of any stone.

A Jeweler’s Guide to Buying Your Diamond Engagement Ring Online

Choosing a diamond clarity that suits your engagement ring budget

If you are sticking to a strict budget for your engagement ring, the clarity of the diamond should be your top priority. Clarity measures the stone’s structural flaws or inclusions and is one of the most important pieces of information when pricing the stone. The more obvious an inclusion is, the less expensive the diamond will be.

An FL (flawless) stone will have no inclusions, making it rare and heavily priced. But there are other kinds of diamonds that will look just as beautiful on your hand as a flawless stone. VS (very slightly included) and SI (slightly included) stones will have inclusions in the diamond which may not be visible to the naked eye. A VS or SI stone can be a budget-savvy option as well as a beautiful one.

A Jeweler’s Guide to Buying Your Diamond Engagement Ring Online

Picking the perfect engagement ring style and size

There’s nothing more anti-climactic than being told that your partner wants to swap the engagement ring you’ve chosen for something else – or needing to resize it immediately after the proposal because it’s slipping off their finger. Fortunately, there’s a simple solution!

Some online jewelers offer an engagement ring home try-on kit that takes all the stress out of choosing the perfect ring. A try-on kit gives you the opportunity to see what looks and feels right on your hand from the comfort of home, so you can be confident in your decision before you buy.

A Jeweler’s Guide to Buying Your Diamond Engagement Ring Online

Some companies also offer free ring sizers as a complimentary service. Using this accurate and simple tool will help make sure that any ring you purchase is crafted to the perfect fit first time.

Buying an engagement ring is a big moment, and shopping online doesn’t mean you’ll be going it alone. If you’re unsure about any aspect of your ring selection, don’t be afraid to reach out to customer service. They will be happy to answer any questions you may have, or connect you with someone who can help you. Your experience should still be special, with all the support you need to make choosing your diamond engagement ring easy and enjoyable.

A Jeweler’s Guide to Buying Your Diamond Engagement Ring Online

Thanks to Stefano Navi for sharing these tips with us! They offer eco-friendly, budget friendly and sustainable lab-grown diamond engagement rings from their online store based out of New York.

The post A Jeweler’s Guide to Buying Your Diamond Engagement Ring Online appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

]]>
Superfood Skincare Secrets for Glowing Skin on Your Wedding Day https://theweddingplaybook.com/superfood-skincare-secrets/ Fri, 02 Jul 2021 06:32:01 +0000 https://theweddingplaybook.com/?p=38794 Every good makeup artist will tell you the same thing: flawless wedding makeup starts with skincare!  If your skin needs a little lovin’ before the big day, there are some grocery staples that offer just […]

The post Superfood Skincare Secrets for Glowing Skin on Your Wedding Day appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

]]>
Superfood Skincare Secrets for Your Wedding Day Prep

Every good makeup artist will tell you the same thing: flawless wedding makeup starts with skincare! 

If your skin needs a little lovin’ before the big day, there are some grocery staples that offer just as many perks in skincare as they do in smoothies! These superfoods are packed with nutrients that nourish your body and skin so you’re glowing inside and out. 

Whether you’ve got intimate or extravagant plans for how you’ll tie the knot, our guest author Raww Cosmetics will have you looking and feeling your best with this deep dive into four sensational superfoods and their secret skincare benefits.

Hey nearlywed! This article is sponsored, but we only recommend businesses we believe are doing great work with great style. Whether they’re a household name or a hidden gem, we bring you the best to save you the search! Thank you for supporting The Wedding Playbook and these wonderful suppliers.

What is superfood skincare?

Superfoods are natural ingredients loaded with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Much like how acai berry and poke bowls are popular thanks to their health benefits, skincare infused with these nutrient-dense foods can address concerns like acne, dryness, redness, pigmentation and fine lines. 

For example, superfood skincare products can help reduce the signs of ageing with Vitamin C, lock in moisture with Vitamin E, and protect your skin against environmental stressors with antioxidants. And we’re just getting started!

Superfood Skincare Secrets for Your Wedding Day Prep with Raww Cosmetics

Antioxidant-rich berries

As one of the most powerful superfoods, the flavonoids found in berries can help protect against inflammation, lower blood pressure and lessen the risk of diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and cancer. 

When used in skincare, these antioxidant plant compounds can also help keep our skin cells healthy and protect against environmental aggressors like pollutants.

In Australia, we have our own outback berries like pepperberry, riberry and muntries, which we’ve blended together into what we call the Wildberry Harvest. They might not taste as sweet as their supermarket compatriots, but these traditional medicinal fruits still pack a potent punch in skincare! 

Clinically proven to triple skin hydration, you can find Wildberry Harvest in products like our Purify-ME Gentle Cleanser and Polish-ME Face Exfoliator. Ideal for sensitive skin, this perfect pair gently removes impurities without irritation to help you avoid any big day breakouts.

Superfood Skincare Secrets for Your Wedding Day Prep with Raww Cosmetics

Vitamin C packed citrus fruits

Citrus fruits are one of the most well-known superfoods due to their high Vitamin C content. They also contain potassium, calcium, phosphorus, and various B Vitamins, giving you loads of immunity benefits. 

What you might not be aware of is that the Kakadu plum is considered the richest source of Vitamin C in the world. This native Australian fruit contains up to 100 times more than the humble orange! 

In skincare, Vitamin C boosts collagen production which improves elasticity. It also works to reduce the appearance of dark spots and blemishes for a more even complexion. This will help your wedding makeup glide onto the skin and lessens the need for colour corrector or concealer.

We’ve harnessed the power of Vitamin C by formulating our Smooth-ME Fine Line Serum with Kakadu plum. Ideal for plumping and firming, the reviews confirm this radiance-restoring serum is glowing skin in a bottle!

Superfood Skincare Secrets for Your Wedding Day Prep with Raww Cosmetics

Hydrating coconut water

Want something with a bit more flavour than water but without the added sugar? Coconut water is super hydrating, naturally sweet and high in potassium, making it an effective (and delicious) way to replenish fluids and electrolytes. 

When applied topically, coconut water gives your skin the drink it needs! Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties also make it a must-have for those struggling with sensitivity. 

Our Super Hydrate-ME Day Cream is infused with coconut water. Its lightweight and non-greasy formula makes it perfect for use underneath your wedding makeup. Plus, it will help to reduce redness and prevent breakouts when part of your regular skincare routine. It’s time to say “I do” to this moisture-boosting cream! 

Superfood Skincare Secrets for Your Wedding Day Prep with Raww Cosmetics

Nourishing avocado oil

Who doesn’t love a bit of smashed avocado on toast? A pinch of salt and pepper, maybe a splash of olive oil, and you’ve got yourself a superfood snack. 

Avocados have long been heralded for their healthy fats and high fibre content. They even contain more potassium than bananas!

However, it’s in skincare products where avocado truly shines. The essential fatty acids and vitamin E you’ll find in avocado oil help to maintain a healthy skin barrier by locking in moisture for lasting hydration. They also work to shield your skin from damaging free radicals like UV rays and calm inflammation. 

Before you start mashing a homemade mask, there’s an easier way to absorb all of this goodness. Avocado oil features in our Recover-ME Face Oil to moisturise and smooth the skin. Say goodbye to dry and hello to glow!

Superfood Skincare Secrets for Your Wedding Day Prep with Raww Cosmetics

Thanks to Raww Cosmetics for sharing their secrets to glowing wedding day skin! Their range of cruelty-free skincare made with superfoods and natural ingredients will help you shed the chemicals from your beauty routine and treat your skin the way it deserves. 

Want to help our readers plan awesome weddings by partnering with us on content like this? Find out more about our editorial opportunities.

Photography: Raww Cosmetics

The post Superfood Skincare Secrets for Glowing Skin on Your Wedding Day appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

]]>
Changing Your Name After Marriage: Everything You Need to Know https://theweddingplaybook.com/changing-name-after-marriage/ Fri, 25 Jun 2021 09:17:12 +0000 https://theweddingplaybook.com/?p=38697 Do I have to change my name? What can I change my name to? How do I make my new name official? Who needs to be notified and when? Changing your name after your wedding […]

The post Changing Your Name After Marriage: Everything You Need to Know appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

]]>
Changing Your Name After Marriage: Everything You Need to Know

Do I have to change my name? What can I change my name to? How do I make my new name official? Who needs to be notified and when? Changing your name after your wedding is a big decision and the process to make it happen is even bigger!

Our guest author Genevieve Dennis from Easy Name Change is answering these questions and more for couples getting married in Australia, USA, Canada and the UK to help you make the best choice for you and your family. 

Hey nearlywed! This article is sponsored, but we only recommend businesses we believe will add to your wedding experience. It also contains affiliate links, so if you choose to make a purchase, we’ll receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Does my name automatically change when I get married?

No it doesn’t, but that would certainly save a lot of paperwork! 

What’s the process for changing my name after marriage?

There are two parts to the name change process. 

1. Get proof of your entitlement to be known by a new name. 

For anyone married in Australia, that’s just your marriage certificate (the one issued by Births, Deaths and Marriages, not the ceremonial certificate). 

If you live in the USA, Canada or UK, you can use a legal marriage certificate issued by any recognised authority worldwide. 

2. Update your personal records with government agencies and organisations. 

This can be very time consuming because every business has a different process and it can be hard to find this information. You’ll need to send a range of forms, letters and emails, visit two or three places in person and log in to a few online accounts. You’ll also need to provide some photocopies, certified copies and scans of your marriage certificate, as well as photo ID where required. 

Do I need to change my surname after marriage?

There’s no legal requirement for either spouse to change their name after marriage. No matter if you live in USA, Canada, Australia or the UK, both spouses have the right to take the other’s surname and to not have the same surname. 

Can I get married and change my name later?

You can use your marriage certificate to change names no matter how much time has passed since your wedding.

What are the options for changing my name after marriage?

There are a number of name change options you can consider, depending on how you wish to identify yourself and the new family unit you’re establishing with your partner. 

1. You take your partner’s surname or your partner takes your surname

This comes down to the attachment you each have to your respective surnames. Cultural heritage, family lineage, professional identity, personal experiences, spelling and pronunciation are all factors in choosing one surname over another. 

Even if you take your partner’s surname as your married name, it doesn’t mean you have to use it everywhere. You may still use your former surname in any setting, including at work, even if all of your identification and accounts have been changed. 

2. You hyphenate both surnames

Connecting your present surname with your partner’s surname may offer the best of both worlds, though it can get a bit lengthy at times! If you’d like to take your partner’s name but you’re not ready to give up your own name, this is a great way to honour both families. The only decisions you need to make are which name will go first and if the two surnames should be separated by either a space or a hyphen.

3. You blend your surnames to create a new family name

If neither of you wish to retain your present surnames, you can create a new name to mark the beginning of this next chapter of your lives together.

The process for this type of name change is a little different. One partner will need to undertake a legal name change to the blended name before applying for a wedding license. Then when you receive your marriage certificate, the other spouse may assume the new surname without any extra red tape.

4. You keep your present surname as a middle name

If you live in the US, then you’re in luck! This is the only country allowing spouses to move their surname to become a middle name, but there are slight differences between jurisdictions. Some states may require each spouse to list their future married name on their wedding license, so you need to be prepared before applying. 

Washington is the only US state not allowing newlyweds to move their present surname to become a middle name. This is also the case for Canada, Australia and the UK. As a result, you’ll need to apply for a legal name change in these locations. 

5. You use your present surname publicly and married name privately 

If you have an established professional profile that could be impacted by a name change, you may prefer this option.

If you are in Australia, Canada or the UK, a married name is an assumed name, meaning the name on your birth certificate, or your legal name, never changes. 

Even if you have taken your spouse’s surname, you can go back to your former name at any time and for any reason, no matter what your personal situation. This is why it’s perfectly legal to be known by your birth name at work, even if you have updated all your records.

It’s a bit different for couples living in the US. Once you have your marriage certificate, you can request to change names on all your records, however you can’t change back to your former name without either being divorced or filing for a legal name change. This means once you take your married name, it becomes your only legal name.

What are the benefits of changing my name after marriage?

Though there’s no tangible or legal benefit from having the same name, it can make it easier for you to be identified as a family unit without having to pull out the marriage certificate! And there can be some small wins, like getting a room key from the hotel front desk because you can show ID in the same last name as the booking. 

What are the negatives of changing my name after marriage?

A common concern is the loss of individual identity. And understandably, there is some resentment for the administrative hassle of changing names. You have to find a bunch of forms, wait on hold, visit banks during office hours and find someone who can provide certified copies of your ID. It’s not fun or sexy! (Thankfully, Easy Name Change can help with all this.)

How soon after getting married can I change my name?

You can start changing names as soon as your marriage certificate arrives. Most couples complete the name change process within a few months of their wedding.

What order should I change my name after marriage?

If you live in Australia or the UK, there’s no specific order you need to follow for changing your name. Photo ID can be done first, last or anywhere in-between. 

Couples in the US will need to send in the SSA name change form first, wait for proof of the change, then attend a DMV location in person to update their driver or non-driver ID card. 

Newlyweds in Canada will need proof of their name change on any provincial ID (e.g. driver license or heath card) before updating their passport. 

Aim to have all name change requests sent out within a few weeks so you don’t run into trouble proving your identity or get frustrated by the process dragging out for too long!

Who needs to be notified when I change my name after marriage?

You need to notify every organisation where you have an account, membership, policy or identification, which can be anywhere from 10 to 60 different places. 

Common organisations include the tax office, driver’s license, passport, health care, banks, credit cards, insurance, pension plans, subscriptions, utilities, phone, internet, loyalty clubs and more. Click on your country to see the full range of companies as there’s usually a few that are forgotten!

Changing Your Name After Marriage: Everything You Need to Know | Photography: Jenny Smith & Co. via Ruffled
Photography: Jenny Smith & Co. via Ruffled

How long does it take to process a name change after marriage?

It all depends on how organised you are, as well as the processing times of different organisations. Some companies update your name on the spot, while others can take weeks! 

Research and paperwork takes around eight hours to complete, or a service like Easy Name Change can help cut this down to about 15 minutes. You’ll also need a few hours to visit your bank and state licence issuing centre. 

If you live in Australia, you’ll also need to get certified copies of your marriage certificate and then make scanned copies, unless you purchase a certified kit which takes care of all that for you. 

Thanks to Easy Name Change for these invaluable insights. If you’re planning on changing your name after your wedding, they can help you cut through all the form-filling red tape so you can keep enjoying your newly wedded bliss! Don’t forget you can save 20% off their standard kit or the same dollar value on any other kit with the code WEDDINGPLAYBOOK, valid until 31 December 2022.

Want to help our readers plan awesome weddings by partnering with us on content like this? Find out more about our editorial opportunities.

The post Changing Your Name After Marriage: Everything You Need to Know appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

]]>