Rebecca Calagna Events

Tori and Aaron's Wedding Photos {Deborah Tracey Photography}

2012-02-09T10:47:00.000-08:00

I honestly feel that God has a unique was of bringing me clients. He plays a role in connecting me with the families who will make the biggest impact on my life and in turn whom I will be able to touch with my work. Julie (Mother of the Bride) found my name on Simply Unique Invitations website... I am a dealer of the silk-box invitations they were looking for and that was the reason I first had them over to my home office. I felt a wonderful connection with this family and ended up designing Tori and Aaron's invitations (we didn't end up using the silk-boxes), whole wedding ensemble and had the honor of walking them through their precious day as their Wedding Coordinator. I hardly have words for how beautiful the wedding was and how blessed I feel to have been a part of it.

The fact that the emotions and details of this love-filled day was captured perfectly can only be because of an amazing photographer. Deborah Tracey, who is lifelong friends of the Bride's family, did a gorgeous job. She was kind enough to share the photos below with me. I can highly recommend her for your wedding, but I think her images speak for themselves.

Check Deborah out on her website and facebook.

David Tutera's Top 10 Money Saving Tips

2012-02-08T09:45:00.000-08:00

Every bride wants her wedding day to be the most beautiful day of her life—but there’s no need to land in the poor house in order to make this long-awaited dream come true! “My rule of thumb: There’s no need to spend a ton of money to have an elegant wedding,” states David Tutera, leading wedding and celebrity entertainment expert and star of WE’s My Fair Wedding. “You don’t have to buy a lot of things or have an abundance of trinkets to have a lavish, well-done wedding. Anyone on any budget can have a beautiful ceremony and reception. There is beauty in extravagance but there is also beauty in simplicity!”

David’s book, The Big White Book of Weddings: A How-to Guide for the Savvy, Stylish Bride, is dedicated to this very concept. Here are 10 of his money-saving tricks that will cut back on costs…but not class!

1. Create your budget before spending a dime Before booking or buying one thing for your big day, David strongly advises to figure out how much money is in your wedding fund. “Ensuring you have enough money to purchase what you want—and keeping you out of a disaster zone of debt to come home to from your honeymoon—is our priority here.” And while every bride’s budget is different, David offers these percentages as a guide on how your money should be spent: food and beverage 30%; flowers and decorations 15%; extra cushion 10%; entertainment 10%; venue rental 8%; lighting and sound 5%; tipping 5%; photos and video 4%; cake 3%; printed materials 2%; transportation 2%; hair and makeup 2%; dress 2% and accessories 2%.

2. Aim low on the guest list Guarantee your venue the lowest guest count possible. “You can always go up from there and you won’t ever be contractually obligated to pay for more people than you can guarantee,” says David.

3. Explore the drink options Beverages could run you a fortune, but the first thing to ask your venue is about special drink packages. David also suggests asking about the difference in price and quality between premium bar and a top-shelf bar, as well as asking if you can bring your own alcohol and pay a corkage fee.

4. Inquire about food choices Keep in mind that scaling down from a four-course dinner to a three-course dinner can save you money. Also, certain entrees and hors d’oeuvres may be priced lower than others, along with foregoing food stations and opting for passed hors d’oeuvres.

5. Think “variety” when it comes to flowers “To cut costs from having to pay for large arrangements for each table, ask for a mix of high and low arrangements or a variation of three correlating arrangement designs—varying in cost—mixed throughout the tables,” says David. “This will get you out of paying for all large arrangements and will also add aesthetic variety to the look of your reception on many visual levels.”

6. Find a “two-for-one” company when it comes to photography Some brides hire both a photographer and videographer, but if your budget does not allow to hire two professionals, search for a company that can offer you a package deal for both services. “Another way to save is to have your photographer put your wedding day photos into a video montage with music,” suggests David.

7. Go with one source for music “Have the same vendor provide you with music for each part of your wedding,” says David. “If you want a harpist for your ceremony, a trio for your cocktail hour and a band for your reception, keep it in the family. It will be more organized and you could potentially save money this way.”

8. Ask about bridal gown bargains When it comes to buying your dress, David suggests asking bridal departments and salons about upcoming sales and designer trunk shows. And he says that smaller boutiques may be willing to bargain. “If you buy all of your accessories in one place, they just may come down in price.”

9. Buy a fake cake Believe it or not, you can rent a fake wedding cake—and no one will ever know! “Realistically decorated and beautifully adorned to match your wedding, these faux wedding cakes are made for display only, yet contain a small section to cut into for show,” explains David. “Hidden in the back, servers will pre-cut sheet cakes and serve for a dessert illusion that will save you hundreds of dollars.”

10. Choose a “full” venue Keep in mind that when you find a venue that is just one, big empty space, your budget will need to expand since you will have to bring in everything, from chairs to chinaware. “So look for a venue that has these items in stock, and you will save yourself a bundle in both money and effort,” David suggests.

Envelopments 2012 Wedding Collection - Week 3

2012-02-08T09:37:00.000-08:00

This weeks Featured Recipes showcase a beautiful pas de deux between paper and graphic design that will jumpstart the creativity and design process.

Are you ready for some Football?

2012-02-03T13:52:00.000-08:00

I just finished pinning many Superbowl Party ideas that will help you throw that perfect game day get-together! Enjoy the weekend and Happy Planning!

Tori & Aaron's Wedding Video

2012-02-01T13:37:00.000-08:00

I had the pleasure of working with Alan Larsen Films at Tori and Aaron's wedding in November 2011.

These video's of the Wedding (below) brought so many tears to my eyes. Truth be told, I fall in love with most of my couples. However, Tori and Aaron are so special. They are such a gorgeous God-fearing couple and Alan captured them perfectly. I know you will see why I was crying when you watch these films.

Take my advice, don't pass on the filming of your wedding day! I have watched my own video countless times - many with my own Children. To have those moments preserved and see the happiness and love all around is absolutely priceless.

Alan is an amazing Cinematography and would be perfect to capture your memories for you. Check him out on Facebook and his Website .

Envelopments 2012 Wedding Release - Week 2

2012-01-31T09:02:00.000-08:00

Some Brides come to an Invitation consultation equipped with magazine clippings, blog post print outs, fabric swatches and even some invitations they may have received in the mail. But, some Brides come empty handed? That is OK! My job is to Inspire that Bride with my work samples, creativity, design expertise and the vast collection of Envelopments Featured Recipes! Below are a few designs to get you jump started!

This just Pinned...

2012-01-27T13:41:00.000-08:00

I just pinned tons of Valentine's Party & Wedding ideas on Pinterest. Keep checking back for more...

Have a fabulous weekend and Happy Planning!

Envelopments 2012 Wedding Collection - Week 1

2012-01-26T08:56:00.000-08:00

Each week, over the next 5 weeks, Envelopments will be releasing 12 distinct samples. Below is a peak at the first Wedding release. With 250 card stock colors and 12 unique styles, I am confident I can weave the Envelopments brand and my design skills to make your perfect ensemble! Contact RebeccaCalagnaEvents@gmail.com for your Invitaiton Consultation...

Proudly Listed On...

2012-01-25T11:53:00.000-08:00

Rebecca Calagna {Events} and {Shop} Rebecca Calagna are now listed on Wedding.Planner.Love and Wedding.Invite.Love. These two awesome sites are part of Wedding Lovely. Wedding Lovely was founded by Tracy Osborn and is dedicated to showcasing the best boutique and independent wedding vendors and making the wedding process simpler and more fun. Wedding Lovely also hosts a site for Video, Photography and Venues. If you sign up on the Wedding Lovely site, you can get free wedding tips and reminders to help plan your wedding - who couldn't use that?

You can follow the Wedding Lovely Blog and become a fan on Facebook.

Are you Pinning?

2012-01-24T10:19:00.000-08:00

Have you heard of Pinterest? If not, checking it out is a MUST! Pinterest is a Virtual Pinboard that lets you organize and share all the beautiful things you find on the web. It is used by people to plan their weddings, decorate their homes and organize favorite recipes. Best of all, you can browse pinboards created by other people which is a fun way to discover new things and get inspiration from people who share your interests...

You can now follow Rebecca Calagna Events on Pinterest. I will be posting pictures of Wedding, Party and Holiday decor that I hope will inspire you and help you plan that perfect event!

Introducing Envelopments Trellis Collection

2012-01-24T09:46:00.000-08:00

With bated breath, we’re proud to introduce the Trellis Collection featuring the hand-painted artwork of Kristy Rice. Our newest collection of Envelopments Patterns available in enclosures, cardstocks, papers and liners. With our upcoming 2012 Wedding Release, we will be debuting ten different Trellis prints.

We feature Trellis in the Vivienne & Miles wedding ensemble, as seen in the Winter 2012 edition of Martha Stewart Weddings magazine, currently in circulation. The beautiful latticework of the pink floral pattern wraps the invitation in a 6×9 Pocket Folds enclosure. We highlight the tones of the delicate flowers with Boa and Tourmaline card stock backing layers and emphasize the hand-drawn stems with Belluccia, a calligraphic font.

Use any of the Trellis patterns to match the invitation, or use coordinating colors like Boa, Napa, Green Tea, Graphite, Raw Silk Gold or Raw Silk Ecru-SWI73 to create an eclectic color scheme of Favor Containers. Incorporate Envelopments Original Artwork (30 hand-painted floral elements to choose from) onto personalized band wraps.

Custom-scored folded cards make beautiful place cards, layered card stocks hang beautifully from topiaries as table numbers, and Envelofolds® enclosures work great as escort cards.

{Credit: Envelopments Blog}

Tropical Save The Date

2012-01-19T09:57:00.000-08:00

I just finished these very cool Save The Date invitations for a couple getting married in June on a Yacht out of Newport Beach. I used Envelopment's 4x8 Abaca pattern cut stock with a printed layer of Ecru Micah. I pulled the Abaca leaf pattern to flank both sides of the wording. Lori also wanted a pop of blue (her wedding color), so we used a Zircon blue envelope and matched the LOVE and names to that color.

These can be found in my Etsy store.

Better Late Than Never?

2012-01-19T06:30:00.000-08:00

Sometimes life throws you a curve ball. My family and I lost a great man this past December. Needless to say, it has been a hard month and a half and I am just now getting back into the swing. I am hoping that wishing you all a Happy New Year will be accepted and come to you "better late than never".

Thank you to all my 2011 clients - It is you and your gratefulness that make my work worthwhile. I look forward to what 2012 has to bring for Rebecca Calagna {Events} and our family.

Finally! An Etsy {Shop}!

2011-11-12T17:32:00.000-08:00

I am very happy to say I finally opened an Etsy site. It might seem a little redundant to have an actual online store and an Etsy site, but Etsy is a wonderful community of handmade vendors and I am happy to be a part of it.

Please visit out our {Shop} Rebecca Calagna Etsy store by clicking the link below. Check back often for additions including Christmas cards, Save the Dates, Wedding Invitations, Birthday Invitations, Seating cards and Menus.

RCE {Information}

2011-08-02T09:02:00.000-07:00

I recently created these Rebecca Calagna {Events} mailers to send out to venues/professionals around the Southern California area. They have been created with Envelopments Brocade pocket, black satin ribbon, Aquamarine border for the front monogram tag, and crystal detail {my signature}! The staggered inserts include information about Rebecca Calagna Events, the Shop, the Blog, Contact information and Recommendations.

If you would like to receive one or know someone who could benefit from my help, please email RebeccaCalagnaEvents@gmail.com with the contact name and address!

Custom Wedding Invitations {Just Finished}

2011-08-02T08:56:00.000-07:00

I just finished these gorgeous (if I do say so myself) invitations for a couple getting married at Summit House in Fullerton. While the color scheme of black, white and hot pink is not traditional by any means, I was still able to put my classic twist on it. This is an Envelopments 5x7 Signature pocketfold with black satin ribbon around the inside layers, directions and RSVP inserts, and cutom monogram on the front with Rose crystal detail. What I really love is that the envelopes (both RSVP and Mailing) are hot pink to match the border!

Email RebeccaCalagnaEvents@gmail.com for more information on pricing or to set up your Invitation consultation!

{Day # 30} WHAT NOW?

2011-08-02T08:48:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends! I am apologize for the lack of blogging. This past month seemed to fly by so quickly -with my daughter home from school, vacation and strep throat {yuck} for myself and my husband being sick. Well, I could go on and on. BUT...here is the final day of my 30 day blog challenge!

Day # 30{Wedding Planning is over, WHAT NOW?}

Can you believe it is over? In the blink of an eye, all of the planning for that one special day ends. But you are left with such wonderful memories and now you have your new life to start!

Here are my suggestions on what to do now...

Enjoy your Honeymoon! Those are memories and times you won't get to experience again.

Don't forget your Thank You cards!

Pick out your Wedding Photos right away (take it from someone who waited 2 years!)

Arrange your house with your new presents!

Put your new party planning skills to good use and host a Holiday Party!

Start a Blog of your married adventures for family and friends!

Get your dress cleaned and packaged {Or have a Trash the Dress photography session}

Simply relax!!

{Day # 29} - Wedding Menu

2011-07-11T07:31:00.000-07:00

{Sit-Down Dinner}

Who should choose it: Couples celebrating at a catering facility, club, or ballroom, as well as oenophiles who want to pair each course with wine.

Who should avoid it: Party animals. Dinners take time―spent eating, not dancing or clinking glasses with anyone beyond your table.

What to ask: The real price difference between seated dinners and buffets. You may assume plated dinners are pricier, but often they are not, because the caterer knows exactly how much food to order and prepare, whereas buffets have to accommodate multiple trippers.

{Buffets}

Who should choose it: Those who want to offer several entrées. Planning a day wedding? Brunch dishes like muffins and fruit platters look lovely on a buffet, and omelets can be made to order.

Who should avoid it: Couples with a 100-plus guest list (lines will form).

What to ask: How long the food will sit out. Typically, buffets have a shelf life of about 2 to 2½ hours―for both taste and health reasons. Also ask how the wait staff will direct buffet traffic (it's best to invite tables to head to the buffet one at a time) and clear dirty plates.

{Cocktail Party}

Who should choose it: Duos on a budget. You can offer hors d'oeuvres for less money than a sit-down meal. (Just be sure to keep the party under three hours. If you go longer, the cost difference between the two parties is negligible.) This may also appeal to couples with a 300-plus guest list and second-time-arounders.

Who should avoid it: Brides seeking the spotlight. Cocktail parties tend to skip introductions of the couple, first dances, and dances with parents.

What to ask: The best time to schedule it. An 8 p.m. reception clues in guests to grab a bite before, whereas a 5 p.m. start time signals supper.

{Casual Barbeque}

Who should choose it: Couples with close-knit friends and families who would enjoy the informality of a backyard, a barn, or a park wedding.

Who should avoid it: Control freaks. If your friends are firing up the park grill themselves, burgers may be burned, food may go cold, and wayward Frisbees might come your way. You could hire a caterer, but staff may be trampling through your kitchen if you host the barbecue at your home.

What to ask: Will the caterer have to bring in a cook tent? Even if you have access to a great gourmet kitchen, it might not be up to catering standards.

{10 Ways to Make Your Wedding Reception Menu Memorable}

by Amy Gordon @ The Knot

1. {Dream Up a Theme}

One of the most fun (and often easiest) parts of developing a theme wedding is deciding the menu. From a traditional New England clambake to a spicy Southern barbecue, theme-wedding menus create a fun, exciting, and memorable event. It might even be the way you eat the food that stays in your guests' minds -- cracking crabs at a Maryland riverside wedding, nibbling satay at a Thai-inspired city garden reception, or roasting marshmallows over the flaming bonfire at a wedding "campsite." See real casual, elegant weddings.

2. {Go Regional}

There are many people who take culinary vacations, traveling through countries in search of the local fare. Turn your wedding reception into its own culinary vacation by creating a menu featuring regional specialties. It may be foie gras from the Hudson Valley, spicy chicken wings in Buffalo, or even the largest cheese spread ever seen in Wisconsin.

3. {That's Entertainment}

Who said that food only pleases the palate? You can devise a wedding menu where the food preparation is as flavorful as the food itself. Consider a sushi bar complete with professional sushi chef -- the performance of slicing and rolling turns simple ingredients into works of art right before your guests' eyes. Or perhaps French chefs donned in aprons and hats will create flaming crepes tableside. Find a wedding caterer who can pull it off!

4. {All in the Family}

Something in between a sit-down meal and a buffet, family style offers a natural way to get tables of guests talking while creating a very festive and homey atmosphere. Each dish is delivered to the center of the table and guests pass them politely (or grab and hoard, depending on your family). Italian food might be an obvious choice, but Asian, Mexican, and Indian cuisines work well here too.

5. {That's So You!}

The wedding day is all about the bride and the groom, so why not plan a menu that has special meaning to the two of you? Perhaps your first date was at a baseball game -- why not serve hot dogs? Or maybe the two of you love to fly fish -- highlight freshwater fish on the menu. Or he proposed over a romantic picnic lunch -- recreate the magic by recreating the meal. When your guests think about what they ate, they will automatically think about the couple of honor.

6. {Presenting...}

The eyes have it -- when it comes to remembering things, that is. Your guests will very likely recall a fabulous-looking buffet table before they remember what foods it featured. Be creative -- instead of serving soup in a bowl, have it ladled into a hollowed-out acorn squash. Or have asparagus tied up like a present with leek leaves. You could even serve coconut shrimp inside a coconut and garnish with a tropical flower.

7. {Less is More}

Sometimes the simplest foods presented in an elegant, bountiful manner have a more memorable effect than a wide variety of offerings. Colin Cowie offers this advice in his book For The Bride: "You can make a statement of style with one or two spectacular dishes. For example, instead of having ten different tray-passed appetizers during the cocktail hour, serve mountains of jumbo shrimp or sliced smoked salmon." Remember, KISS -- keep it simple, sweetie.

8. {Ride with a Trend}

Trends come and go and if you can jump on one before it's passé, all the more power to you. Ask your caterer what's up and coming. Perhaps she's got some unusual idea that will make the kind of memorable statement you're looking for. It might be something as homey/funky as a mashed potato bar, complete with your choice of spuds and toppings, presented in a martini glass. Or maybe a true Belgian treat -- pomme frittes served with the traditional mayonnaise in paper cones. Just remember -- they're trends, so plan accordingly if you're setting up your wedding menu a year in advance.

9. {A Honeymoon Preview}

Don't worry-we're not suggesting anything X-rated here! Just that you consider planning a menu based on your honeymoon spot. If you're off to Venice, serve a spread one could imagine eating in a gondola. Or if Hawaii's your destination, feature luau fare (without the flame-eaters) -- perhaps even the spit-roasted pig. Maybe it's Japan where you'll be spending the week -- how about a Tepanyaki station (Japanese barbecue), where guests choose raw meats, shrimp, veggies, noodles, and sauces and watch it get stir-fried. Get honeymoon ideas, if you're not sure where you're off to.

10. {Five-Star Elegance}

If dining out in the fanciest of restaurants is your idea of luxury and you happen to have a lot of dough, treat you and your guests to gourmet, white-glove-service dinner. Plan a multi-course meal, complete with a refreshing intermezzo (with hot lemon-scented towels after the fish course, of course). You can choose from French or Russian service: With French, the waiters prepare food on stands set up next to the table and then serve individual plates; Russian service features white-gloved waiters who carry each course on a large tray and serve guests directly from it. For that added touch, offer a different complementary wine with each course.

-- Amy Gordon

{Day # 28} Wedding Speech Etiquette

2011-07-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

At weddings where Tradition still resonates the most, the expected toasts are to be given from the Best Man, Maid of Honor and Father of the Bride. The Father of the Bride will go last so he can announce the commencement of activities and blessing of the food (or hand off the microphone to the person whom will do the blessing).

Besides making the toast heartfelt and keeping it (reasonably) clean, guests should follow the guidelines below.

Etiquette from Southern Living regarding Toasts at Weddings:

Giving a Wedding Toast
Rule #1: Be brief
It's best to stay under two or three minutes.

Rule #2: Rehearse
Sometimes even spontaneity requires a little forethought. Practice out loud in the mirror a few times.

Rule #3: Get (and keep) the Crowd's Attention
Avoid tapping your glass; simply stand and speak loudly and clearly.

Receiving a Wedding Toast
Rule #4: Don't Drink To Yourself
Avoid raising your glass, and remain seated when the toast is offered to you.

Wedding Toast Rules for Guests
Rule #5: Let the Host Toast First
Champagne glasses on the table indicate toasts will be made, usually with the dessert course.

Rule #6: Never Refuse to Participate
If you're a nondrinker, it is courteous to raise an empty glass, rather than none at all. If you're nervous about public speaking, have a couple of short toasts committed to memory in case you're unexpectedly called upon.

Wedding Toast Rules for Hosts
Rule #7: Inform Guests if You Would Like Them to Toast
If you're hosting a formal party or wedding and would like for certain guests to toast the honorees, it's polite to call them a week before the party to let them know.

{Day #27} Thank You, Merci, Dankie, Grazie

2011-07-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

Sending a Thank You note is important! It lets your guest know that you appreciate not only their gift, but the time and effort they spent in picking it out and also sharing your special day with you.

Etiquette says you have NO LONGER than 3 months to mail your Wedding Gift thank you notes out. Ideally, you will do them within 2-4 weeks of returning from your honeymoon! For Engagement parties, Bridal Showers and Pre-Wedding gifts you have 1-2 weeks to get those notes outs.

And wouldn't it be so nice to send those Thank You notes that match YOUR wedding ensemble and leave your day complete in your guests mind? Thank You Notes are one of my favorite things to create because I know that so many good thoughts will be written inside.

{Day #26} Change my Name, Change my Name

2011-07-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

Article by -- Cindy Hobson {TheKnot.com}

To change your name or not to change your name, that is the question. Before you decide, read up on all of the options and learn what you need to do to make it legal.

Reasons to Change Your Name

Let's face it: The evolution of women's roles aside, many traditionalists still expect married couples to have the same last name. So, at least convenience-wise, taking his name will make your life easier, especially if you have children. You won't have to explain to that perfectly annoying stranger at the kids' school that you two really are Beth and Sam's parents -- and you are married -- even though your names are completely different. Another potential upside of taking his name: It might be better than yours. If your family stubbornly hung on to Skunkowitz for generations -- or your parents thought it would be cute to name you Jackie Mackey -- this is your opportunity for an upgrade. Other pluses: no arguments over painting the mailbox, easier monograms, and less complicated dinner reservations. Plus, it's kind of nice sharing a name with the man you love. There's something very "connecting" about it.

Reasons to Resist Changing Your Name

These days it's perfectly acceptable for a woman to keep her own name. After all, you've had your name your whole life, and, if you're like most people, it's pretty much your identity. Taking his name may feel like you're losing you -- as well as perhaps being unnecessary, overly traditional, and even sexist. The change may also mean people you've known throughout your life won't recognize your name or know how to find you -- a good or bad thing, depending on who they are. Perhaps professionally you have made a name for yourself, and you sure do like the way it sounds when your assistant answers the phone "Ms. Schmidt's office."

How to Change Your Name

If you've decided to change your name, after the wedding it's time to make it official. (By the way: Contrary to popular belief, obtaining a marriage license that uses your new last name does not automatically mean you've changed it.) Start with your Social Security card and driver's license: Without these, you won't get very far down the list of other important changes. Here's a list of four basic steps to new-name bliss.

1. Get Proof
Arm yourself with a certified marriage license -- be sure it has a raised seal, which means it's authentic. Call the office where your license was filed to get copies if they aren't automatically sent to you.

2. Set Social Security Straight
Contact the Social Security Administration at (800) 772-1213; an automated system will talk you through the name change process. Your new card will be free -- if you're contacted by a company that claims to do this for a fee, don't buy it. These companies have nothing to do with the SSA and should be reported to authorities.

3. Motor on Down to the DMV
Visit the Department of Motor Vehicles, which requires you to make a personal appearance (read: wait in line). Bring a book to read and every form of identification you can lay your hands on. No matter what, do not forget your certified marriage license.

4. Fill in the Blanks
Once you have a social security card and driver's license in your married name, other changes should be fairly easy. Some institutions only require a phone call; others may ask for a copy of your marriage certificate or social security card. Be sure to notify:

Friends and family

Employers/payroll

Post office

Phone company and other utilities

Banks and other financial institutions

Credit card companies

Schools and alumni associations

Voter registration

And don't forget to get your new name on these documents as well:

Passport (Do not do this before the wedding -- your passport name must match the name on your ticket and all other travel documents! It's easier to take your honeymoon with your maiden name.)

Mortgages and leases

Wills

Insurance policies

To help you some more, you can find many handy name change kits online!

{Day # 25} License to Wed

2011-07-02T08:00:00.000-07:00

Obtaining your {marriage license} can very well be one of the easiest things you have to arrange in your planning process. Remember to keep in mind...

· Laws vary by State and Country

· It is NOT proof of your marriage

· You can't get married without one

· You both need to be present to obtain

· You will need to provide valid photo ID and a birth certificate

· It is only valid within the state you got it

· They do expire, so get married before it does so!

· There is a fee when applying

· If you are getting married for the 2nd time, you might need to provide proof of dissolution.

If you are in Orange County, below is your link for the OC Clerk and online appointment maker.

https://cr.ocgov.com/marriageappointment/

{Day # 24} Practice Makes Perfect - Rehearsal Dinner Do's and Don'ts

2011-07-01T11:13:00.000-07:00

The purpose of the Rehearsal dinner is to properly thank everyone involved in planning your wedding. Mainly, your wedding party and immediate family. Traditionally the Groom's parents will host the dinner and it is somewhere where that will provide little effort or clean (there will be enough the next day)! It is a time to enjoy yourselves, however don't go overboard on the fun and remember to relax and get a good night's sleep! Here are a list of Do's and Don'ts related to the Rehearsal Dinner...

{DO}

Make life easy on yourself. Plan the dinner somewhere there is little clean up.

Plan for some downtime and make it early enough to get a good night's sleep.

Be creative and have a fun theme.

Invite all your wedding party and any out of state guests who have traveled just for your wedding.

Have a different menu than will be offered at your wedding.

Make sure to thank the people that got you there.

{DON'T}

Over do it with the alcohol.

Forget about the Toasts. This is a nice time for you as the couple to thank everyone.

Forget about the gift giving (parents and bridal party).

Forget to take LOTS of pictures.

Check out this FUN Rehearsal BBQ here at SnippetandInk.com

{YourWedding101.com, SnippetandInk.com}

{Day # 23} Just You & I - Keeping Weddings Small

2011-06-30T08:00:00.000-07:00

One of the biggest trends is weddings right now is small guest lists and here are 10 of the main reasons why...

{Rush Order} You now have the option to get married in a shorter amount of time. With fewer people and details to oblige you can cut down the timeline.

{Spare Feelings} You will only be surrounded by those people that love you. You have an easy out to tell people that they are unfortunately not invited.

{Lavish Honeymoon} You are saving money with fewer guests and can put that toward the honeymoon of your dreams.

{Destination Wedding} You now have the option for a Destination Wedding with only close family and friends.

{A Moment Alone with Your Spouse} Stop. Soak it in. It’s not something many couples get to do on their wedding day because of stress, obligatory conversations and details they have to manage and take care off.

{No Small Talk} With smaller guests lists your guests will feel at home and have more time to mingle. You as well won't have to catch up with that Facebook friend.

{Keepsake Photos} With too many guests it can be hard to gather together to get keepsake photos.

{Go Green} There will be less waste period in smaller weddings. Less paper, less food, less trinket favors, etc.

{Cut Loose} Being surrounded by only those you love mean you will feel more relaxed and comfortable. You will be able to cut loose and dance the night away.

{Wedding, Not a Reunion} There is no need to spend $100 a plate to rekindle old friendships. Again, the whole point of smaller weddings is to be around those who love you and will be in your life 5-10-20 years from now!

{IntimateWeddings.com}

{Day # 22} Honoring Family/Friends No Longer With Us

2011-06-29T08:00:00.001-07:00

As your wedding approaches, it is only natural to think of those who couldn't be there. There are simple things you can do to honor those who have passed. But keep the remembrance upbeat because their death should not be dwelled upon on your day of celebration and happiness.

1. Have their favorite song played

2. Light a candle

3. Take your bouquet to the grave site after the ceremony

4. Have a memorial charm attached to your bouquet

5. Put the loved ones pictures on a ceremony table

6. Memorial candle engraved or floating candles

7. Include their favorite flower in your bouquet

8. Leave an empty chair where your Mother/Father would be and stop to place a flower on that chair as you walk down the aisle

9. Honor these people in your program

10. Create a unity bouquet with a flower for each person that has passed

11. Have a picture of that loved one wrapped in the stem of your bouquet

12. Picture locket attached to bouquet

13. Butterfly or dove release

14. Wedding invitation wording - Daughter of "the late"

15. Prayer of the Faithful

16. Donation box for the charity of which that person's ailment was

17. Carry something special from that person (i.e. the Rosary your grandmother gave you)

{Photo Credits: offbeatbride.com, getmarried.com, marrymakingevents.blogspot.com}