Deciding Whether To Offer Alcohol at Your Wedding

One question you and your partner will need to tackle early in your wedding planning process is whether you’ll be offering guests alcohol.

In some cases, the answer may be a no-brainer. Maybe, because of your personal convictions, serving alcohol simply wouldn’t feel right to you.

Or, maybe the answer is a resounding, “Of course we will.”

If you’re somewhere in the middle, though, and are on the fence about offering alcohol at your wedding, we can help.

We’ve put together some plusses of offering your guests alcohol—and of skipping it.

Plus Sides of Offering Alcohol

To be blunt, if you’re planning an evening affair, many of your guests will be expecting alcohol.

And, there’s a reason couples serve alcohol at their weddings: It can contribute to a more festive reception, a greater sense of fun. Guests who’ve had a drink or two are more likely to mingle and get on the dance floor.

Along the same lines, a cocktail hour is a great transition from your ceremony to the celebrating that takes place during the reception.

You could say that offering drinks is a way of showing your bests you appreciate them. It goes hand-in-hand with serving excellent food.

And, if you’re interested in adding personal touches to your wedding, elements that reflect the personalities of you and your partner, creating a signature cocktail is a nice way to do that.

Alcohol also comes in handy when it’s time for wedding speeches and toasts. Yes, toasts can be done with sparkling cider or juice instead of Champagne, but some may find that non-alcoholic substitutes fall flat.

Serving alcohol can be a significant expense, but you do have options for reining in your costs. If your venue offers beverage packages, you can select the one that works best for your budget, possibly one with more affordable well liquors instead of premium liquor brands. Another option is to offer complimentary beer and wine and skip the liquor—or limit the liquor to one or two signature cocktails.

You also can offer a cash bar instead of an open bar, meaning guests will be expected to pay for their own drinks. A compromise would be to serve complimentary glasses of wine or champagne to welcome guests, or for your toasts, in addition to the cash bar.

Benefits of Skipping Alcohol

For one thing, drinking and serving alcohol may conflict with your personal or religious beliefs. If that’s how you feel, your friends and family will respect that.

And, as we mentioned, alcohol can be costly. Depending on the size of your wedding, offering a full open bar (allowing guests their choice of drinks at no cost to them) costs an average of $2,000 to $4,000. Skipping the alcohol saves you money and allows you to spend more on other areas that are important to you, from wedding videography to your honeymoon.

Other benefits of a dry wedding include:

If you know that someone on your guest list has struggled with alcohol, or is struggling with it now, a dry wedding will allow them to relax and enjoy your wedding without the tug of temptation.

You minimize the risk of alcohol-induced uncomfortable moments, from a tipsy toast-giver to less-than-appropriate behavior.

What’s more, you may not be going for a party feel; you may simply want to share one of the most important days of your life with your loved ones. You absolutely can do that without alcohol. And, if you’re concerned about disappointing guests, you can always hold a brunch wedding, when they’ll be more interested in coffee.

If you go with the no-alcohol option, be sure to offer your guests other beverage options including sodas, juices, iced tea, lemonade, and water. Fruit garnishes would be a nice touch.

Also, you always can offer a signature mocktail, from the Virgin Mojito (lime juice, lime wedges, sugar syrup, mint leaves, soda water) to the No Tequila Sunrise (orange juice and grenadine). Or, you can come up with something creative and unique to your wedding.

Ultimately, your wedding is about you and your partner. Yes, making your guests feel happy and appreciated is important, but you have many options for accomplishing those goals.

The Bell Tower on 34th is an elegant Southeast Texas-based wedding venue with customizable packages serving Houston and the Greater Houston area. Our central location is near The Woodlands, TX; Montgomery, TX; and Tomball, TX.

Contact us to learn more about our event packages.

9 Tips for Corporate Event Planning

Organizing a corporate event, from a party to a seminar, can be intimidating.

But, putting together a successful event is doable, even if this is new territory for you.

Detailed planning and organization will be important, along with consideration for your attendees and their needs.

While this article isn’t a comprehensive guide, we have some suggestions that can help you plan successfully.

Here are your nine tips for planning a corporate event.

1. Be clear on your event’s primary purpose. Is it team-building? Launching a new product or service? Helping employees feel appreciated? You’ll need solid objectives before you can start figuring out how to make them happen.

When you clearly identify your goals, you’ll be better able to manage your resources, stay on task, make decisions that support your primary purpose, guide your team, and measure your effectiveness.

2. Develop a comprehensive plan. Once have a big-picture view of your event’s purpose, develop your strategy for achieving it, whether that’s creating a fun, unforgettable party that your colleagues will never forget or finding a motivational speaker that will truly energize the company.

Then, map out your tasks—the building blocks of your event--from finding the perfect venue to ordering supplies.

Plan elements might include:

-A planning timeline

-A budget

-Specific tasks, who will be responsible for completing them, and deadlines for each

-Internal communications or marketing to get the word out about the upcoming event

-A chain of command for decision-making

-Venue research

-Your guest list

-An itinerary for the event

-Food and drink details

-Audio/visual needs

-Tech requirements

-Transportation/Parking

-Entertainment, if applicable

-Logistics for setting up and tearing down

3. Start your preparations as early and allow for interruptions and delays. Life happens, especially when you’re on a deadline. Giving yourself as much time as possible to pull your event together will help minimize your stress and increase the likelihood of success.

4. Select product and service providers carefully. Make sure they have experience with corporate and positive references.

5. Remember to have a contingency plan in place. Your Plan B may save the day if something goes wrong, whether it’s a miscommunication with your caterer that results in no lunch deliveries or a sound system refuses to cooperate.

6. Consider a rehearsal. Couples hold wedding rehearsals; why shouldn’t you? If your event has elements that need to come together without a hitch, possibly an award presentation or a snappy audio-visual presentation, having a run-through will give everyone more confidence and help you catch potential problems before the real event.

7. Depending on what you’re planning, a theme can be an effective way to add a sense of energy and excitement to your event. Aim for something fun, and look for creative ways to work it into the day, from food and drink offerings to signage. Humorous touches will help, as long as they’re not off-color and are appropriate for the type of event planned. (Humor is perfect for team-building, but may not land well at a shareholders’ meeting.) A word of warning, if you don’t have the time and resources to develop and execute a theme effectively, skip it. That’s better than a last-minute or cheesy theme, which will work against the positive energy you’re trying to create.

8. Don’t lose sight of your attendees’ needs. Whether you’re working on a party or a product launch, the goal should be to keep participants comfortable and engaged. Employees are much more likely to retain the information presented during a day of interactive, hands-on activities at a workshop, for example, than they will be after hours of PowerPoint presentations. Also, give attendees plenty of breaks and consider the temperature of your setting.

9. Don’t underestimate the importance of good food; it will shape participants’ overall perception of your event and add to the fun. Consider healthy options that will keep people energized or offer decadent comfort food and dessert stations (or both).

It also helps to consider what will be taking place as you make menu choices. Will attendees be hearing complex data that will require sharp focus? Consider proteins like lean meat, poultry, fish, and vegan options. Will the day be a bit of a marathon? Offer foods that will boost attendees’ energy like nuts, complex carbohydrates (whole grain breads and pastas, brown rice), and vegetables.

The Bell Tower on 34th is an elegant event space with valet parking and onsite security serving the Greater Houston area. Our central location is a short drive from the Galleria area and the Houston Heights area.

Learn more about holding a corporate event here.

Flower Girl Tips

It’s an iconic image: A little girl walking along a wedding aisle moments before the bride appears.

Flower girls add elements of sweetness and charm to the wedding ceremony. Maybe that’s why the tradition of including them has been such an enduring one.

Having a flower girl in your wedding is completely optional and depends on your unique circumstances and vision for your day. If the idea of a flower girl does appeal to you, there are some steps you can take to create a positive experience for her, your guests, and you.

Here are our suggestions.

Flower Girl Basics

Basically, a flower girl’s job description is to be adorable. Usually, flower girls walk along the aisle before the bride, tossing flower petals along the way to the altar.

After completing her walk, the flower girl can sit with her family, which should be seated near the front where she can see them. If your flower girl is older, you can invite her to remain standing with the bridesmaids.

Age recommendations for this young member of your wedding party range roughly from 3 to 8. Most importantly, the flower girl should be old enough to understand, and carry out, her duties. If you want a particularly young girl to participate, younger than 3, you can always recruit a helper to carry them or walk them down the aisle.

Fun fact: The tradition of flower girls at weddings goes back centuries. Early flower girls often carried bunches of wheat or herbs and sprinkled herbs along the path the bride would be walking. The wheat and herbs symbolized fertility for the married couple.

Selecting a Flower Girl

Couples who have a flower girl in their wedding usually choose a child that one or both of them are close with—or the child of a close friend or family member.

If you go this route, and you have a girl in mind, talk with her parents about the possibility of including the girl in your wedding. Discuss what the flower girl’s role entails, for both her and her parents. Her parents, for example, will need to talk with her about what to expect and buy her an outfit. The flower girl also, in many cases, attends the rehearsal dinner, creating another commitment for her family. You may be planning to hold a wedding after-party, which would mean a longer day or evening of celebrating (should the family decide to join you). What we’re saying is, be sure the parents feel like being a flower girl will be a positive experience for their daughter.

Creative Options

While we tend to assume flower girls will be sprinkling the aisle with flower petals, there’s nothing written in stone about that.

If your venue frowns upon throwing items on the aisle, arrange to have your flower girl simply carry a bouquet—or any number of creative alternatives. Possibilities include a pinwheel, a basket of pine cones (nice for a winter wedding), a single flower or parasol.

You also have flexibility when it comes to the number of flower girls in your ceremony. There’s nothing wrong with having several flower girls, and if they vary in age, the older girls can help the little ones.

Getting Them Down the Aisle

It will be important to talk with the flower girl about her part in the wedding. The more you build up her importance before the big day, the more likely she’ll be to cooperate when the time comes.

"Kids love knowing they play a big role in such an important event,” Kelly Dellinger, owner and principal planner of Kelly Dellinger Events, told MarthaStewart.com. The more you can do to get them to look forward to walking down the aisle, the more likely they'll enjoy it and really get into it."

Also, if you and the girl’s parents give her some chances to practice, she’ll be more confident at your ceremony. Give her parents the song that will play when it’s time for her to walk, and ask them to have a few trial runs (walks) with it at home.

Even if all of your preparations go off without a hitch, it’s possible that stage fright will strike at the ceremony. Talk with the girl’s parents about having a treat ready for her at the end of the aisle; it may be just the enticement she needs to start her walking toward it.

A parent stepping in to accompany the girl can help, too, but if the girl still refuses to begin walking down the aisle, it’s better to graciously let her bow out.

Thanking Your Flower Girl

Consider getting your flower girl a gift to express your appreciation for her. Select something age-appropriate that matches her personality and interests. Or, you can give her something she can use into adulthood like a necklace or earrings.

It also would be nice to write a special note for your flower girl to tell her how happy you are that she was part of your wedding.

The Bell Tower on 34th is one of the leading modern wedding venues in Houston and the surrounding area.

Contact us to learn how we can help you create an unforgettable event.

Picking the Perfect Wedding Date

Your wedding date is one of the key decisions you'll make when planning your big day.

Getting the date right sets the stage for a seamless and special celebration with the people you love most.

Here are some tips and key factors to consider when considering possible wedding dates.

Seek Expert Advice:

Consider hiring a wedding planner in the early stages of planning.

A wedding planner is likely to have insider knowledge and vendor relationships can be invaluable when exploring venue availability, pricing, and coordinating all the moving parts for date selection.

Think About the Season

Each season has its pros and cons for weddings. Spring and fall are popular for their mild temperatures. Summer wedding dates can take advantage of warm weather but the heat, especially in Texas, could be uncomfortable for guests. Wintertime brings holiday cheer and cozy vibes. Consider the climate and your preferences when narrowing down the season.

Pitfalls to Avoid Before You Pick a Wedding Date

It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of planning your wedding day and overlook some key considerations when cementing your wedding date. Steer clear of these common mistakes couples make when booking their big day:

-Forgetting to check school calendars: Your wedding day may need to take place when kids are out of school to make it easier for families to attend.

-Choosing a friend's birthday: Avoid taking over someone else's special day or forcing guests to choose between events.

-Neglecting travel factors: Ensure your date works logistically for guests, especially if most are flying in.

-Failing to send save-the-dates: Send these six to 12 months in advance so guests can plan around your wedding.

By avoiding these pitfalls as you select your all-important wedding date, you can prevent unnecessary headaches down the road.

Check Your Wedding Venue Availability

Before falling in love with a date, make sure your desired wedding venues are available.

Your dream venue may book up quickly, so check its calendars and be flexible with your date range if needed.

Once you've settled on a particular venue, secure it by putting down a deposit before nailing down the exact date.

Know Guests' Schedules

You want your nearest and dearest to be there on your wedding day, so factor in their schedules during your wedding planning.

Check for conflicts with major holidays, school breaks, or annual events your guests attend. Weekends tend to work best for guest travel plans.

If planning a destination wedding, save-the-date notices should go out extra early.

Ask for the Preferences of Your VIP Guest List

It's particularly wise to get input about wedding day scheduling from your VIPs: These are the people who absolutely must be there for your big day.

Once you’ve narrowed down your wedding date options, do an informal poll among parents, wedding party members, close relatives, and your dearest friends. Ask for their thoughts on the dates you’re considering and find out what works best for their schedules.

Make it clear you’re only asking for input about the optimum wedding date, not permission.

But getting insider info from your VIPs can reveal any red flags, like conflicts with school events, vacation plans, or annual commitments. Knowing if certain dates make it extra difficult for key guests to attend allows you to make an informed decision.

Watch the Calendar

Before you choose your wedding date, be sure to look at what else is happening on or around your potential wedding dates that could be an issue.

Check for church events, local festivals, or busy travel days that could affect hotel room availability for out-of-town guests.

Consider the Symbolic Meaning

Some couples choose a wedding date with a special meaning, like an engagement anniversary, birthday, or meaningful holiday.

Or maybe a certain date has significance within your faith. This adds a personalized touch and deeper meaning to your big day. Just be sure the date also works well for your situation.

Mind the Details

Weekday or weekend? Morning or evening? How your wedding day falls on the calendar can impact details like your schedule, vendor availability, and costs.

Saturdays often book up fast and come with premium pricing. Friday- and Sunday-wedding dates tend to be more affordable.

Watch Out for Three-Day Weekends

Long holiday weekends may look enticing for a wedding date but can actually limit guest attendance, as people take mini vacations out of town.

Venues are also likely to charge more for popular three-day weekends.

Consider Travel Costs

Look at average airfare and hotel costs on your potential wedding date. Flights and rooms often cost more around holidays and other peak times.

This allows you to avoid dates that may be budget-busters for guests' travel.

Extra Date Considerations for Destination Weddings

Having a destination wedding comes with its own unique factors when firming up your date. Give yourself plenty of time and flexibility if your wedding requires long-distance guest travel.

-Research destinations’ peak seasons: You may save on costs by avoiding the high tourist season, but the weather could be iffy.

-Know the area’s rainy season: Tropical locales often see more rain during certain months.

-Check national holidays: You want vendors and services to be available for your wedding needs.

-Allow extra travel time: Give guests ample notice and time to book flights and arrange time off work.

-Have a backup rain plan: You'll need indoor options for the ceremony and reception in case of inclement weather.

-Make room blocks well in advance: Reserve a section of hotel rooms for your guests to ensure availability.

By factoring in these destination wedding considerations, you can select the ideal date for your overseas nuptials.

Is a Holiday Wedding Right for You?

Some couples opt to get married on or near a major holiday like Christmas, New Year's Eve, Valentine's Day, Fourth of July, etc. Holiday weddings can be beautiful and festive but also come with pros and cons to weigh.

Potential Perks of a holiday wedding date: Venues may already be decorated for the occasion. Guests are likely off work and in a celebratory spirit. The holiday symbolism can be meaningful to you.

Potential Pitfalls: Venues and vendors get booked up far in advance for popular dates. Prices are often higher. Guests may have competing holiday plans and getaways. Your anniversary could get overshadowed by the holiday each year.

Ask yourself what's most important—picking a special, meaningful wedding date or convenience and budget. Keep your must-have wedding vision and guest list in mind. A holiday adds fun flair but also limits flexibility. Make sure to give your VIP guests plenty of advance notice if you choose a holiday weekend wedding.

Don’t Compete with Sporting Events

If you or your future spouse are big sports fans, you’ll want to steer clear of major sporting events when picking a wedding date. Scheduling on a day when a huge game or championship is happening means you’ll likely have some no-shows from guests who can’t tear themselves away.

Do your research and check the schedules for professional sports leagues, major college athletics, annual sporting events like the Super Bowl or Kentucky Derby, and more. The last thing you want is guests sneaking away during your reception or anxiously checking scores on their phones.

If your wedding date happens to coincide with a can’t-miss game, consider setting up a viewing area where guests can discreetly keep up with the action. Or have fun with the overlap by incorporating sports themes into your decor, catering, and more.

With the right planning, you can accommodate both love and sports.

Set the Wedding Date ASAP

As soon as you settle on your wedding date, announce it to your VIP guests and wedding party. This gives them as much notice as possible to make arrangements. Then get ready to share the joyful news and your save-the-dates with all your guests!

Choosing your perfect wedding date requires factoring in many elements—the venue, weather, costs, schedules, and more. Start early, be flexible, and give yourself options.

With thoughtfulness and planning, you can find the ideal date to say your "I dos!"

The Bell Tower on 34th is one of the leading modern wedding venues in Houston and the surrounding area.

Contact us to learn how we can help you create an unforgettable event.

Wedding Color Schemes

One of the decisions you’ll need to make fairly early in your wedding planning is what your wedding colors should be.

You may be asking, how important is selecting a color scheme for wedding planning? Do we have to choose a wedding color palette? Our answer is, no, it’s not an absolute requirement, but it is highly recommended.

As Cindy Sanchez Lark of Detaille Weddings and Events in Connecticut told Wedding Wire, picking wedding colors provides couples with a blueprint, so to speak, for planning decisions about clothing, signage, your wedding reception table linens, floral arrangements, wedding stationery—even your signature cocktail. A wedding color palette helps pull everything together.

“I feel as though a wedding color palette gives everyone some direction and boundaries,” she said. “The most beautiful events are always those where there is cohesiveness in color, starting with the save-the-dates, which is the first glimpse of what the wedding will be like, to the thank-you note mailed after the fact.”

If you find the idea of selecting your wedding colors a bit daunting, don't worry. You're not alone. Couples stress about getting their color decision right, knowing that it will influence so many other decisions to come.

With that in mind, we've put together some color palette trends and tips to help you create the right color scheme for your wedding day.

Assigning Roles

A wedding color palette generally includes main colors, secondary colors, and accent colors. Wondering how this works?

Your main colors will be like leading actors in a movie. They might, for example, be the color of your invitation envelopes, bridesmaids' dresses, and most prominent flowers in your bouquet.

Your secondary colors will play supporting roles, such as smaller flowers in your arrangements, or an element in your groomsmen's outfits.

You also will have accent colors, which if we’re continuing this movie metaphor, would be like famous stars who make a cameo appearance. We only see a little of them compared to the rest of the cast, but they make a big splash. When it comes to your wedding color palette, accent colors might be used for shoes, linen borders, or napkins.

Pick Colors That Will Play Together Nicely

Your favorite colors may be beautiful individually, but when you put them together, not so much.

Wedding color coordination should be one of your considerations as you select your palette. To prevent jarring color contrasts we suggest selecting a couple of main colors for your palette, along with two or three complementary secondary colors that include at least one neutral. You also should consider an accent, maybe a metallic gold or silver, to use strategically.

Generally, hues of the same color go well together, along with combinations of warm and cool shades, and combos of vibrant colors with neutral tones. Cool colors include shades of blue, purple, and green. Warm colors are reds, oranges, pinks, and yellows.

Don't Be Overly Cautious

While you want to prevent your color combinations from clashing, you don't want to limit your wedding color scheme choices, either.

Then, as Tarrytown, New York-based event designer Michelle Edgemont explained in a recent blog, you run the risk of creating an equally unappealing effect.

“Choosing too few colors for your wedding color palette will create a really flat, almost boring, look to your decor," Edgemont wrote. "Say you love yellow and gray. Those are your wedding colors. All you’ve done is buy everything that is either yellow or gray. Suddenly, your wedding looks way too matchy-matchy without any depth to the decor.”

Trends This Year

Some of the more popular wedding colors in 2023 include dark shades of green, gold, navy blue blush pink, dusty pink, neutrals, and browns.

Wedding Motif Combinations

Rather than selecting colors, some couples are building their palette around a central wedding motif like "boho chic" or "woodland fairy tale." These motifs guide the color scheme in a cohesive direction. A boho chic wedding could feature bright jewel tones with intricate embroidery accents. Meanwhile, an enchanting woodland palette may use deep greens and laurel mosses paired with natural wood elements.

Most Common Wedding Colors

While unique color combinations can look beautiful and make a statement, there are still several classic color palettes that remain the most popular choices for weddings year after year:

-White and Blush: An elegant combination of crisp white and soft blush pink exudes timeless romance. White flowers mixed with blush bridesmaid dresses and table runners is a fail-proof pairing.

-Ivory and Gold: Ivory represents purity and pairs gorgeously with glamorous gold accents. Creamy ivory flowers paired with gold charger plates and Chiavari chairs make for classic luxury.

-Red and Black: Striking red and classic black prove a bold, dramatic pairing. Red roses combined with black linens and a black tuxedo evoke vintage Hollywood style.

-Navy Blue and Silver: Navy is a rich neutral that allows metallic silver to shine. Navy suits complement shiny silver jewelry and tableware for a polished, nautical vibe.

-Green and White: Lush green foliage and flowers popped against a clean white background feel fresh and natural. Great for garden weddings.

Use Your Wedding Venue as a Starting Point

Are you looking for some wedding color inspiration? Has looking at different wedding themes left you feeling overwhelmed?

The indoor and outdoor spaces where your wedding will take place could be a helpful place to find good wedding color combinations.

Maybe you’d like to select hues that complement the decorative features at your wedding venue, from decorative pieces in the ballroom to window treatments.

Walk around the wedding venue grounds. Inspiration for your wedding palette could come from flowers blooming in the garden or from a key element in the landscape like a fountain, a majestic tree, or a water wall.

Look to Your Wedding Theme

If you have a wedding theme in mind, it could be the key to selecting your wedding colors.

With a Harry Potter wedding, for example, you can always go with some of the colors associated with one of the four Hogwarts houses.

A Gryffindor color palette would be shades of red and gold. A Slytherin color palette would include green and silver; a Ravenclaw color palette would be shades of blue and bronze; and a Hufflepuff color palette would include shades of yellow and black.

One popular theme this year is the whimsical garden wedding. With this theme, potential wedding colors could include shades of lavender, mint, magenta, blush, pale pink, blue and yellow, and peach.

Colorful Table Decor

Don't forget about using color on reception tables to complement your wedding palette. Tablecloths, runners, napkins, and centerpieces present lots of possibilities for embellishing with main colors, secondary colors, or accent shades.

Some eye-catching tablecloth color combinations to consider:

-Pink tablecloth with purple napkins

-Navy blue tablecloth with coral napkins

-Green table runner with white tablecloth and blush pink napkins

-Gold tablecloth with red and green plaid napkins

-Black tablecloth with metallic gold charger plates and silver napkins

Mix and match colored linens from your wedding palette for a cohesive yet vibrant reception tablescape. Layer patterns and textures as well, like combining a sequin tablecloth with satin napkins. Don't be afraid to get creative! Your table decor offers lots of real estate to showcase your signature wedding color style.

Seasonal Suggestions

If you’re having trouble selecting your primary colors, you might be able to draw inspiration from your wedding season.

Spring Wedding Colors

Lovely colors for spring could include earthy neutrals with accents of green; dusty blue; warm combos of pink, orange, and white; and bright pink.

Summer Wedding Colors

If you’re planning a summer wedding, for example, shades of orange, light pink, green, and blue can help set the tone.

Or, if there’s a summer flower you’ve been hoping to incorporate into your bouquet, like irises or orchids, you can use its color as one of your primary choices.

Fall Wedding Colors

Ideas for a fall wedding might include burgundy, mauve, pink, red, forest green, navy blue, gold, or maroon.

Winter Wedding Ideas

If your wedding will take place during a winter month, your optimum shades are cool, deep colors. Look at jewel tones like ruby red or emerald green. Other options include neutrals like black, white, and navy.

Unique Color Combinations for Weddings

Choosing the right color scheme for your wedding can be tricky. While classic combinations like black and white or red and gold are timeless, you may want something more unique for your special day. Here are some unique color palette ideas to consider for your wedding:

-Green and beige: One unique color combination gaining popularity is green and beige. The earthy tones pair nicely for a natural, organic wedding aesthetic. Different shades of green can be mixed with neutral beige in flowers, linens, and stationery.

-Yellow and Teal: Another unexpected pairing gaining popularity is vibrant yellow with refreshing teal blue. Together, the colors exude fun, playful energy for an upbeat event. Yellow tulips mixed with teal table runners and napkins keep guests smiling all night.

-Sage Green and Dusty Blue: A soft pairing like sage green and dusty blue evokes a romantic, vintage vibe. Accent with cream and white for a light and airy feel. These colors are perfect for a garden or farm wedding.

-Peach and Navy Blue: Bright peach has a cheerful, fun flair and navy blue is a bold accent. These colors are vibrant and eye-catching together. Peach bridesmaid dresses pop against dark blue groomsmen suits.

-Lavender and Gold: Regal lavender and shiny gold make an elegant and luxurious combination. Lavender flowers paired with gold flatware and accents give off glamorous Gatsby-style vibes.

-Mint and Coral: For a fresh, beachy aesthetic, try mint green with pretty peach coral. These playful pastels feel tropical and summery.

-Pastel Pink and yellow wedding colors: Soft pink and buttery yellow are a cute combination with a sweet, playful mood. Pastel pink bridesmaid dresses and yellow floral arrangements make for a bright, springtime pairing.

-Purple and grey wedding colors: Rich purple and silvery grey together create an edgy yet glamorous modern look. Purple calla lilies mixed with grey linens lend drama and sophistication.

-Orange and Plum: An unexpected pairing, plum and burnt orange can make a striking statement. Orange flowers glow against plum bridesmaid gowns for drama and flair.

Modern Wedding Colors

While white and pastels remain wedding staples, many contemporary couples opt for bold, vibrant color palettes for a striking celebration. Jewel tones like emerald, ruby, and amethyst lend rich, regal style to weddings.

Metallic accents including rose gold, copper, and gunmetal inject modern elegance. Neutrals like black, gray, and taupe paired with pops of color create a chic, neutral canvas. And shades of purple from lilac to violet provide a mystical, romantic vibe. Recently, bright, energetic hues like coral, yellow, turquoise, and fuchsia have become sought-after statement colors for the most playful, fun weddings.

Whatever palette reflects your personal taste, vibrant modern hues are an ideal way to make your wedding photos pop.

Be True to Yourself

As with many of the wedding planning decisions ahead of you, there's no need to stress out about making the wrong choices. Yes, some colors complement each other more than others, but really, the main goal is to select colors you love: hues that reflect your style and the tone of the wedding you're planning.

If you want your wedding colors to showcase your love for romance, your flair for the dramatic or whimsy (hot pink, anyone?), or any other number of qualities, those are the ones you should select.

The Bell Tower on 34th is one of the leading modern wedding venues in Houston and the surrounding area.

Contact us to learn how we can help you create an unforgettable event.

Wedding Planning When You’re Crunched for Time

When writer Camille Bautista learned her sister was engaged, it was a bit of a bombshell. Bautista and her family were thrilled about the news, not so much about the wedding date.

It was less than seven days away.

“Judge away, but they simply didn’t want to wait to start their lives together,” Bautista later wrote for Bustle. “After basking in the glow of my sister’s new bling, reality set in: We had to plan a wedding in a week. ONE WEEK.”

While a one-week deadline would be pretty intense, plenty of couples opt for short engagements (less than a year).

If you and your spouse are among them, don’t stress. It is entirely possible to create a wonderful wedding in a rush. (In fact, Bautista notes in her article that her sister’s wedding was beautiful.)

Here are some planning suggestions to get you started.

Effective Planning

Rushed wedding planning can lead to a frustrating cycle: Less planning time can cause stress; stress can lead to procrastination; procrastination heightens stress. We suggest giving yourself deadlines for individual planning tasks, but, don’t beat yourself up if you miss some of them. Think of your deadlines as motivators that can help you keep your planning moving.

Remember, you don’t have to do everything on your own. If your budget allows it, a professional planner will be a tremendous resource. See if you can find someone who has successfully organized weddings in short timeframes. Professional organizations like the Association of Wedding Planners (AWP) Houston are good starting places.

Friends and family can be helpful, too. They can brainstorm wedding ideas with you, and you can always see if some of them are available to take on small to-do items like a bit of online research on your behalf. Designate tasks fairly, without putting unreasonable burdens on others, and try to match jobs with volunteers’ interests and talents.

Another word of advice: It will be tempting to make quick decisions during your planning so you can move on to the next thing on your list. That’s why it will be very important to have a budget in place before you make any decisions. And, be clear about who will pay for what.

Inviting Guests

One of the first steps in your planning process should be deciding who you’ll invite. If you won’t be able to give your guests very much lead time—save-the-dates usually go out four to six months before a wedding, and invitations are sent six to eight weeks in advance—touch base with the people you want at your wedding about their availability as soon as possible. In other words, you may want to make sure your sister or your partner’s best friend can be there before finalizing your date.

And because time is of the essence, consider electronic save-the-dates and/or invitations instead of mailing print versions.

Selecting a Location

While you’re working out who can attend your wedding and when they can be there, you’ll also need to figure out exactly where the wedding will take place. Consider booking a venue on a day other than Saturday, when they’re more likely to have openings. You can reduce your research by selecting the same place for your ceremony and reception, assuming you want a reception. Or, you can get married in a private ceremony and hold a reception-only wedding ceremony.

As you speak with venues, ask if they can offer advice and resources for streamlining your planning process. They may be able to help with vendor recommendations, too.

The Rest of Your Checklist

Creating a list will be particularly helpful as you attempt to rush through your planning tasks. It will ensure items don’t slip through the cracks and give you a sense of accomplishment as you mark tasks complete.

Here are some items that should be priorities in addition to the to-dos mentioned above.

Find an officiant. Line up someone to conduct the ceremony.

Look into getting your marriage license, and ask about waiting periods. In Texas, or instance, couples apply for marriage licenses with their county clerk and, in most cases, have a 72-hour waiting period from getting their license to their wedding ceremony.

Decide if you want anyone to be part of your ceremony, from a maid of honor to a flower girl, and talk with them (or their parents) as soon as possible.

Consider a wedding website. With things moving quickly, a site that answers guests’ most likely questions will make everyone’s life easier.

Research rings, decide what kind of bands you want, and make your wedding ring purchases.

Get your outfits. Give yourselves as much time as possible to find something you like and get alternations made.

Line up vendors such as photographers, bakers, a caterer, entertainment, and florists, depending on your priorities. Don’t rush these conversations: Take time to ask your questions, and get everything in writing.

A few other decisions and to-dos:

Do you want engagement photos and/or bridal photos? Schedule sessions with a photographer.

Do you want to go on your honeymoon immediately after your wedding? Start making plans.

Would you like to have a rehearsal dinner? Work on selecting and reserving a location.

Schedule food tastings and select your wedding menu.

Depending on the size of your reception, create a seating chart.

Do you want to have pre-wedding parties? Talk with wedding party members, friends, or family members.

Are you interested in a wedding after-party? You’ll need to line up a location as soon as possible.

Throughout your planning process, remain in close communication with your planner, caterer, and venue, who likely will need information about your headcount, menu choices, vendor choices, and more.

Flexibility is Your Friend

Be flexible on items that require significant lead time. Instead of ordering an elaborate cake, for example, go with cupcakes. Instead of having a dress made, select something off the rack.

Be reasonable about your goals. Understand that if you want to add a special element to your wedding, like a sunset ceremony or a vegan menu, you’ll probably need more time for planning and preparation.

Above all, dismiss ideas of perfection. It’s not attainable, even if you have years to prepare. Instead of trying to plan a perfect wedding, aim for a joyful one. Focus on beginning a new journey with the one you love, surrounded by people you love. If you do that, you will be able to consider your efforts successful.

The Bell Tower on 34th is one of the leading modern wedding venues in Houston and the surrounding area.

Contact us to learn how we can help you create an unforgettable event.

10 Tips for Selecting Your Wedding Bands

Your wedding band can speak volumes.

It will represent the bond and commitment between you and your soon-to-be spouse.

And…depending on the rings you and your partner select, they can reflect your tastes and personalities.

A classic gold band, for example, can say that your focus is on romance and tradition. On the other hand, you may want a custom design that reflects your creativity, bold choices in metal and stone colors to show off your individualism, or a ring design—like connected waves—that reflects your strong commitment to everlasting love.

Because selecting your wedding rings is such an important part of your wedding planning process, we’ve put together some helpful information and guidelines for you.

 Here are your 10 tips for selecting a wedding ring.

1. Decide how much you want to spend. In 2023, the average price of wedding rings ranged from $1,000 to $3,000. Remember, those are averages. It is entirely possible to find a ring you love at an affordable price.

2. Don’t put off your search. Give yourself time to get the right size and find something you love enough to wear forever. If you’re interested in having the rings engraved, you’ll need even more time. Try to start shopping at least six months before your wedding date.

3. Have your finger sized. Take the time to visit a jewelry store and request this free service. You want your ring to be comfortable and to remain securely on your finger.

That said, size isn’t the only factor that impacts comfort. When it’s time to shop, consider the weight and overall feel of the rings you try on, too.

4. Don’t shy away from online retailers. You can find a variety of options, including designer brands and independent jewelers who can create custom designs, online. And, you’ll have the flexibility of shopping with your partner at odd hours, if necessary, to accommodate your schedules. Whether you shop in person or online, be clear on the vendors’ return policies.

5. Decide which metal you want. Possibilities include gold (yellow, white, or rose), sterling silver, cobalt, palladium, platinum, titanium, and tungsten. Each has something to offer in terms of visual appeal, affordability, and durability, depending on what your priorities are.

Gold, a popular choice, is available in a multitude of styles. While it is a “soft” metal, gold is strong enough for the average person. Gold alloys, 14-18 carats, are more durable than pure, 24k gold, but some people are allergic to other metals, such as copper or nickel, in the ring. You also should know that gold can be discolored if exposed to certain chemicals, including bleach, and it requires occasional maintenance.

Here are some of the pros and cons of other metal options.

-Cobalt: Strong; as a newer option, it can be harder to find; looks similar to platinum, but can be easier to scratch; can only be resized up to half a size

-Palladium: Resembles platinum but is more affordable; strong but not as durable as platinum; lightweight; resistant to tarnishing

-Platinum: One of the strongest metals in the world; one of the most expensive ring options; pure—hypoallergenic; will not corrode, discolor, or tarnish; one of the heavier ring options; can be scratched (true with all metals)

-Silver: An affordable option; some silver rings resemble platinum; requires more upkeep than other options—can tarnish

-Titanium: Mainly used for male bands; very strong; lightweight; available in a variety of shades; cannot be resized

-Tungsten: Extremely strong; more affordable than platinum; cannot be resized

6. Think about your engagement ring. Assuming you have an engagement ring, consider how your wedding band will feel and look with it. Some brides select matching metals and designs, but you also can select something different that complements your engagement ring’s look and color.  

7. Check out a variety of styles. Look at flat ring styles and round ones, simple bands along with twisted and woven designs. You may find yourself falling in love with an option you’d never thought about.

8. Decide if you want to add diamonds (or other precious stones like sapphires or rubies). The number of diamonds—five small stones or diamonds that encircle the ring—will impact your price, along with the quality of the diamonds.

If you want small stones to line the band, there is a risk of a stone falling out or snagging on something. Another option is a channel setting, meaning the jeweler sets the stones into a small channel cut into the ring.

9. Decide if you want your ring engraved. You can have your ring etched with a design or have letters or words engraved into it. Etched and engraved rings are harder to clean, though.

Engraving costs about $25 for machine-carved characters, according to Brides magazine, and $75 for eight hand-engraved characters.

10. Make sure you understand your warranty. Talk with your jeweler about what’s covered. Ask about cleaning services, changes, and repairs—and if these services last for the lifetime of your ring.

The Bell Tower on 34th is one of the leading modern wedding venues in Houston and the surrounding area.

Contact us to learn how we can help you create an unforgettable event.

Maintaining Reasonable Expectations For Your Bridesmaids

When you ask the people closest to you to be your bridesmaids, in most cases, they’ll be honored and happy to be a source of support for you.

Ideally, those positive feelings will be just as strong when their time as your bridesmaids draws to a close.

But, without meaning to, you can put a serious strain on your relationships and inflict damage that will be felt long after your wedding day by making your bridesmaids feel uncomfortable, unappreciated, or just plain unhappy.

Generally, this happens when brides ask too much of their bridesmaids.

Are you wondering how much is too much? Here’s a look at what you reasonably can expect from your bridesmaids.

It is reasonable to ask for help with your wedding preparations—as long as you respect your bridesmaids’ time.

If you ask them to take on a major undertaking, like decorating your venue or baking your wedding cake, you’ve transformed them from bridesmaids to unpaid vendors. You don’t want them to feel like your personal servants.

Even in the case of tasks you consider relatively small, like checking out a florist near their office, make sure the bridesmaid feels comfortable with what you’re asking them to do—and your timeline for accomplishing it. If they have a concern, let them off the hook graciously.

If your bridesmaids have agreed to help you with a wedding to-do, make it easy for them.

What we’re saying is, don’t procrastinate, so your bridesmaids are forced to scramble with you to stuff invitation envelopes or assemble your wedding favors.

Make a plan for any task they’re helping with that includes who is doing what, along with the timing and location. And when you schedule the work session, allow time for it to be rescheduled—just in case life happens—without creating a stressful, rushed situation for everyone involved.

Ask your bridesmaids to wear the outfit you’ve selected, not to get a complete makeover.

It’s fine for the bride to select her bridesmaids’ dresses, and maybe even to request a specific hairstyle or shade of nail polish. But you’ll be crossing the line if you pressure a bridesmaid to lose weight or make a permanent change to the way they look.

A tip: Even though you, as the bride, can select your bridesmaids’ dresses, at least consider their preferences. Let them make suggestions that factor in what they find flattering, comfortable, and within their budgets. They’ll be happier and more confident during your wedding, and that only will enhance the day.

Bridesmaids are a source of emotional support and advice, but they’re not responsible for keeping the peace.

We realize that family drama is one of the last things you want to deal with when you’re planning your wedding, but expecting a bridesmaid to step in and smooth tensions is asking far too much. 

"The only time bridesmaids should be tasked with conflict management is when a situation only encompasses the bridesmaids’ group, and it would be better for a bridesmaid to handle than the bride," MarthaStewart.com writes. "A bridesmaid should never be responsible for clearing up an issue between a bride and her future mother- or father-in-law, for example."

Being a bridesmaid involves expenses, but they should not be asked to spend more than they can afford.

Don’t forget that your bridesmaids already will be paying for their dress, and they’ll probably be chipping in for bridal shower and bachelorette party costs and buying wedding gifts. That doesn’t even get into potential travel costs and missing work to attend your wedding (and possibly, your wedding after-party). Keep that in mind before asking for an out-of-town bachelorette party or luxurious extras like a day at the spa that will add to your bridesmaids’ expenses.

Bridesmaids will help organize pre-wedding events, but they should be able to bow out of activities when necessary.

Expecting your bridesmaids to attend each pre-wedding event, from wedding dress shopping to your bridal shower, is a great way to cause resentment. It implies that you don’t respect their work and personal responsibilities. Show gratitude for what they help with, and let everything else go.

Basically, as long as you make a point of considering your bridesmaids’ needs and feelings, your bridesmaids will feel valued, and your relationships with them will remain strong as ever.

The Bell Tower on 34th is one of the leading modern wedding venues in Houston and the surrounding area.

Contact us to learn more about how we can help you deliver an unforgettable event.

Event Planning: When Something Goes Wrong

In event planning, it’s practically a given that something is going to go wrong sooner or later. Whether it’s a minor hiccup like on-site registration that drags out longer than expected, vegan attendees with no menu choices, or a full-scale disaster like a missing keynote speaker, problems come with the territory in this field.

Yes, you absolutely can minimize the risk of problems with strategic planning, but some things will be outside of your control.

When things do go wrong, your response will shape your client’s perception of you and your services. A prompt, honest, and professional reaction will earn respect much more than placing blame or a panicked reaction.

We’ve put together a few guidelines and suggestions that will help you respond effectively to unwanted situations at your events.

A Few General Rules

Don’t panic. If your client, or their guests, see you lose your cool, the magnitude of the problem will seem much, much bigger. Besides, worry and panic are contagious—try not to spread them.

Be accountable. When something goes wrong, be it a missing delivery or a climate-control malfunction, don’t make excuses. Instead, work on resolving the situation. Communicate clearly with your client, and be honest if the situation can’t be fixed.

Consider resources that can help. In a recent blog, Reinventing Events recommends evaluating your resources when things go wrong. “If the badge vendor didn’t send enough badges, is there a FedEx Print Center you can call to see if they can do a quick print? If a sudden storm is knocking down your outdoor signage, is there a volunteer who can help you pick them up?”

Make sure your team is prepared, too. Make time to train your staff on how to respond when something goes wrong. Not only should they be focused on remaining professional and taking good care of event attendees, but they also should know what steps they should take. Maybe you want them to contact a specific manager to ask for instructions. Or, maybe you’ll want certain staff members to step in to help resolve a problem, possibly by fixing malfunctioning equipment or bringing in backup supplies.

Be Your Own Best Friend

One of the best things event planners can do for themselves and their clients is to have just-in-case plans, processes, and tools in place.

Each event should have a custom contingency plan, which should be completed in the earliest stages of your planning. You can’t prepare for everything, but start your plan by asking yourself what are the most likely, or most devastating, scenarios.

One example could be the possibility of a no-show, or extremely late, guest speaker. Your contingency plan should include professional speakers who can fill in on short notice. Your plan also should have information about the event attendees: In an article for Associations North, business speaker Thom Singer suggests pulling together an expert panel of four or six subject matter experts or admired people attending your event. He also encourages planners to find the best emcee they can to moderate. “Have the moderator interview all the panelists about their best ideas in regards to an important industry topic, then allow the audience to participate in Q&A with these masters of knowledge,” Singer writes. “With four or six on the panel no one individual needs to carry the whole presentation.”

Another logical topic to address in your plan is the possibility of severe weather or a natural disaster: Be prepared to move to another location, reschedule, or—if possible—shift to a virtual event. Speak to your venue in advance about severe weather policies. Have contact information on hand for area airports, public safety officials—even hospitals. (Along with your plan, consider getting event cancellation insurance.)

As you develop responses to potential problems, think about who will be responsible for which measure. Will you call the caterer when they misunderstand your order, or do you want another team member to take charge? Who will call the valet service if you need a larger parking team? Who will handle your Internet connectivity issues? After selecting the best team members for each responsibility, make sure they understand exactly what you want them to do. Provide detailed written procedures for them and talk it over to make sure there are no misunderstandings.

We also recommend creating an emergency kit. It is not unusual for brides to pack items that will help save the day when (not if) minor mishaps like a stained dress or broken heel occur on their wedding day. You should do the same with your event in mind. Events company East of Ellie wrote in a blog that they always bring a bag of random supplies to live events.

“A laptop, printer, and laminator on site for any last minute jobs is a must.  We also have post-it notes, sharpies, pens, rubber bands, binder clips, a hot glue gun, paper, and anything else that can fit for event day.”

Along the same lines, insist that the vendors you work with, from your venue to entertainers, take the same approach. They should have backup equipment and supplies in place and ready to go when they’re needed.

One more thought: Try to remember that event mishaps aren’t failures on your part. The best you can do is prepare for as many possibilities as possible—and be calm and professional about situations you couldn’t control or anticipate.

The Bell Tower on 34th is a Houston-based venue for weddings, corporate events, parties, and other gatherings.

Contact us to learn more about how we can help you deliver an excellent event.

12 Tips for Selecting Your Wedding DJ

You’ve decided you’d prefer a DJ over a band at your wedding or wedding after-party, and now you need to hire one.

This will be one of the more important decisions you’ll make while planning your wedding. A DJ is much more than an affordable alternative to a live band.

A good DJ can really help set the tone of your wedding reception and impact your guests’ experience. They likely will be your master of ceremonies, too, keeping your wedding flowing and making key announcements.

So, how do you find the right person?

Here are 12 suggestions to consider.

1. Seek recommendations. Ask friends, colleagues, and family who’ve hired DJs if they were happy with their choice and why. Your wedding venue, planner, and other vendors may be able to make suggestions, too. If you’re based in Houston or the surrounding area, from The Woodlands to Katy, specify that you’re looking for someone who can help with a Houston-area wedding.

2. Consider agencies. You have the option of working with wedding entertainment agencies that, in addition to connecting clients with DJs, also help customers find bands, magicians, and other entertainers. One of the plusses of an agency is they can help you zoom in on the type of DJ you have in mind. That said, just like screening potential DJs to ensure professionalism, make sure you’re working with a reputable agency with good customer reviews.

3. Speaking of reviews…take the time to read DJ reviews and testimonials in more than one spot. Look for social media reviews — and comments on DJs’ business posts — and check sites like Yelp and the Better Business Bureau.

4. Consider personality. Do you want someone who weaves humor into their routine and has a knack for getting people out on the dance floor? Or, would you prefer someone who is known for being polite and polished? Look for someone who will complement the atmosphere you’re trying to create.

5. Select an experienced professional. Your cousin may take occasional DJ jobs, but that doesn’t necessarily make them a good fit. Look for a full-time professional with experience and references. You want someone who will be professional and contribute to a successful event, someone who will keep your guests happy and work cooperatively with the other vendors.

6. Make sure they have liability insurance. A professional DJ will invest in liability insurance, which means they won’t be held legally responsible if they accidentally damage property or cause an injury—and neither will you. Ask them to show a certificate of coverage.

More on Insurance

While you’re researching DJs, you also can look into the possibility of hiring someone with hourly DJ insurance. While most professional DJs have general liability insurance, they may also opt to have DJ insurance. This could provide an extra layer of protection for them and for you.

DJ insurance refers to policies that protect professional DJs against business losses related to claims. DJs can work with an insurance company to get coverage by the month, and some companies offer daily and even hourly DJ liability insurance.

A number of DJs opt to get DJ insurance to make sure the expensive equipment they use is protected. They might combine that with professional liability insurance and even workers’ compensation insurance.

7. Consider their ability to play an eclectic mix. Ask prospective DJs what kind of music they play. For a wedding, ideally, they should be willing to satisfy a wide variety of tastes.

8. Watch them in action. See if candidates can provide videos of their work.

9. Have a conversation. Ask candidates about some of their favorite experiences as a DJ and what made them memorable. Ask about awkward moments, too: What went wrong and how did they handle it? As we mentioned, your DJ likely will be your reception’s master of ceremonies. You should know how they handle the unexpected.

10. Additional questions include:

How long have you been a DJ?

How often do you work at weddings?

Tell us about your style.

Have you worked with our venue?

What will you wear?

Are you prepared to be our master of ceremonies?

How do you get people out on the dance floor?

Tell us about your rates. Do you offer packages? Is there an overtime fee?

11. Generally, the average cost to hire a DJ for a Houston wedding is $800 to $1,000, but don’t make getting a bargain your top priority. We understand the importance of staying within budget, but when you focus on low prices for a wedding DJ—or any other vendor—you could be setting yourself up for headaches. Not only does your risk increase for a meh or less-than-satisfactory performance, a bargain DJ might be using how-quality equipment, increasing the risk for poor sound and malfunctions. A cheap DJ also is less likely to be reliable, and there’s even a chance they won’t be in business when it’s time for your wedding.

12. Talk about your tastes. If you want to hear a lot of Country Western music—or you want music that will complement your event’s theme, be sure to hire a DJ who can help you. Along the same lines, if you want modern music, make sure your DJ stays on top with top hits.

Contact us to learn more about the Bell Tower on 34th, one of the most sought-after modern wedding venues in Houston.

How to Word Your Wedding Invitation

At first glance, coming up with wedding invitation wording seems fairly straightforward. All you need to include is the who, what, when, and where, right?

That’s essentially true, but now that it’s time to work on your invitations, you may have questions.

Should we mention each of our parents? What if they’re divorced? How formal do we need to be?

We’ve answered those questions, along with a few others we commonly hear, in the article below. Happy writing!

Open With the Hosts

As a general rule of thumb, your invitation will open with the names of the hosts, which usually will be the bride’s parents.

A few examples:

Mr. and Mrs. John Paul Brown (This highly formal option includes a middle name.)

Mr. and Mrs. John Brown (still formal)

Mr. and Mrs. John and Cynthia Brown (still formal with both first names)

Cynthia and John Brown (not so formal)

If a parent is deceased, try starting with the couple’s names.

Elizabeth Cohen, daughter of Mr. Mark Cohen and the late Judy Cohen, and Brandon Adams, son of Mr. Douglas and Susan Cohen

If parents are divorced, put each parent on a separate line. Put step-parents on the same line as their spouse.

Mr. Randall and Ann Thompson

Mr. James and Greta Smith

The same rule of thumb applies to hosts who are not married: Put them on separate lines.

Minted.com notes that if you and your partner are paying for your own wedding, you do have the option of skipping the host line of your invitation.

Or, if you’re receiving financial contributions from parents on both sides of the family, you can list all of the parents’ names…or start with the names of you and your partner and add a phrase that says, “Together with their parents” or “Together with our families.”

Ask Your Guests to Attend…

Next, the invitation should have a request line that essentially says “please come.”

The way you put this will vary, depending on how formal you’d like to be. A few options include:

request the honor of your presence

would love for you to join them

invite you to celebrate with them

Your Wedding

And then tell people exactly what you want them to attend. You might write:

at the marriage of their daughter

at the marriage of

as our children tie the knot

as we exchange vows

Add the Couple’s Names

Now, if you haven’t mentioned it yet, it’s time for the names of you and your partner. You can put your names in a point size that’s larger than the rest of the text or use a different font, if you’d like, to make them stand out.

If you’re taking a formal approach, start with the bride, with her first and middle name, followed by the groom’s full name and, if appropriate, title.

You also can list names in alphabetical order, or for a more casual approach, stick with first names.

Tell Guests When to Arrive and Where They Should Show Up

Now, list that all-important date and time, which will be spelled out on a formal invitation.

Be sure to include the day of the week, especially if you’re planning a Friday or Sunday wedding.

Saturday, the twentieth of June, two thousand twenty-two, at half after five in the afternoon.

If you would like a more casual invitation, numerals are fine.

Follow with the location, complete with the city and state. For a destination wedding, you should include the country.

Invitations usually don’t include addresses and ZIP codes of wedding venues, but you should add them for a private residence.

Move on to Reception Information

End with information about the reception: Will it be at the same location as your ceremony? If so, you can write, “Reception to follow.”

If not, include full details: reception start time, location name, city, and state.

If space allows, or if you’re including an insert card, include the dress code.

Reservations

A formal invitation most likely will include a separate response card.

Or, you can ask guests to RSVP on your wedding website.

State Decisions Clearly

If there’s a detail that could cause confusion or be awkward, try to be very clear and open about it in your wording.

For example, maybe you’re planning an adults-only wedding. State that clearly on the invitation.

We kindly request this be an adult-only wedding.

Adults only affair.

If you don’t plan to serve dinner, make that clear as well. Try writing:

Hors d’oeuvres and cocktail celebration to follow the ceremony.

A Few More Thoughts

Your invitations aren’t a depository for all of your wedding details. Provide your registry information on your website.

Whether you’re opting for formal or casual invitations, be concise.

Also, aim for clarity. Read what you’ve written and ask yourself, could anything here confuse a reader?

Proofread. Proofread again. Ask friends and family to take a look, too. Double-check the spelling of all proper names, from your venue to your future in-laws.

If you’re asking yourself if you’d prefer formal wording, that decision is entirely up to you. One factor to consider is the formality of your event. Do you plan to go with a black-tie evening event or a more casual brunch wedding? Your invitation will give guests a feel for what they can expect.

Learn more about holding a wedding at The Bell Tower on 34th.

Your Guide to Selecting a Houston Wedding Venue

Two of the first decisions couples typically make after getting engaged are when they want their wedding day to be and where they want their wedding to take place.

In some cases, it can be easier to nail down the "where" first, even before finalizing the "when," though not all couples have that luxury. Maybe they need their wedding to take place on a certain day to accommodate career demands, ensure out-of-town guests can be present, or align their wedding with honeymoon travel plans.

In any case, selecting the right wedding venue will be one of your most important shared decisions as a newly engaged couple. Your wedding location will help set the tone of your big day, impact the experience that you and your guests share, and shape your other planning choices.

This guide is intended to help. We have included tips on venue research, factors to consider, and questions to ask as you begin your search for the best venue choice for you and your spouse-to-be.

We also have information for couples based in greater Houston, from Spring, The Woodlands, and Conroe to Bellaire, Meyerland, and Sugar Land.

Start Your Venue Search Early

Give yourself plenty of time to find and line up a venue. Consider it a favor to yourself: Giving yourself time will help minimize your wedding-planning stress. You can find a wealth of information online and even use a wedding venue finder app to create a list of possibilities to research.

Remember, it’s not at all unusual for couples to book a venue more than a year in advance, especially if they’re interested in a Saturday wedding. (You can buy yourself some wiggle room if you’re open to a Friday or Sunday wedding.) So you'll need to do the same if you don't want to miss out on your dream venue.

Plus, finding what you consider the perfect wedding venue, one with all of your wedding venue must-haves, is a time-consuming process. You want the freedom to research ideas and potential venues more thoroughly instead of scrambling to find a place, any place, with an opening on your wedding date. You also want time to talk with your partner about your priorities and your thoughts on what makes a good wedding venue.

Know What You Can Spend

Developing a wedding budget should be high on the list of wedding planning to-dos, too. While it may take time to factor in all of your costs, you can always start by coming up with the total amount you and your partner can spend.

From there, you can estimate the amount you'll be able to devote to your wedding venue.

Generally, a wedding venue will represent one of your largest wedding expenditures. According to Investopedia, about 40% of your budget should be set aside for your venue and catering.

Make Some Decisions About Your Wedding Day

We also encourage you to figure out what you and your partner want your wedding day to look like. We're not talking about your decor; we're asking about the kind of wedding you want.

Are you thinking about a private wedding ceremony followed by a celebration with guests? In that case, you can focus on finding a wedding reception venue.

On the other hand, you may want a venue that includes wedding ceremony space.

Or...you may want a setting ideal for a micro wedding, something with a more intimate feel.

Once you know what will be taking place on your wedding day, you can start figuring out what kind of setting you'd like.

Consider Your Priorities: What Is Your Dream Venue?

The wealth of wedding venue options available today is a mixed blessing. Odds are good that the dream event venue for you and your partner is, indeed, out there. But wading through the sheer volume of venue options can be challenging.

Before you begin your Google search for “Venues in Texas,” or “Wedding Venues Near Me,” or “Modern Wedding Venues in Houston,” take some time to figure out exactly what you’re looking for.

Yes, you want a wedding venue, but what qualities are particularly important to you? A beautiful setting? An ambiance that supports your wedding vision? A specific feature like lush gardens or a dramatic staircase? Or maybe your primary focus is finding a historic wedding venue or an affordable wedding venue.

Discuss your hopes with your partner and try to rank your priorities in order of importance.

Come up with an estimated guest count

Beyond the preferences that will guide your search for the perfect wedding venue, there will be some practical matters to consider. For one thing, your wedding venue must be big enough to meet your needs.

Don't worry, you don't have to send your invitations just yet, but we do encourage you to figure out how many guests could be there on your wedding day.

Sit down with your partner and discuss who you both hope to invite.

If your parents are helping with your wedding, and you are giving them the option of inviting a few people, be sure to talk with them as well.

In addition to the people you're inviting, don’t forget to add their spouses/partners and children (if you’re including little ones). A good rule of thumb is to expect about 85% of the local people you invite to attend, along with about 55% of your out-of-town guests (possibly more if they’re close family members).

Finalize a General Location

Generally, for a local wedding, it’s considered reasonable to ask guests to drive an hour to an hour and a half to your venue. That gives you a fairly large radius to work with.

That rule of thumb applies to weddings where the ceremony and reception take place at one site.

If you’re planning to have separate locations for your ceremony and reception, don’t ask your guests to make a long trek from one to the other. Ideally, the travel distance from your ceremony to your reception location should be less than 20 miles.

Ask for Recommendations

As you strive to choose a wedding venue, remember, the task of finding your dream wedding venue doesn't have to rest on your shoulders alone. Ask others for recommendations. Be specific about what you’re looking for, from recommendations for affordable wedding venues to outdoor wedding venues near your home.

If you’re working with a wedding planner, they can be an invaluable resource. Advice from your wedding planner could be particularly helpful in terms of helping you match your priorities (from photography friendly to a great dance floor) with venues in a specific geographical area.

You also can get helpful input from friends and relatives who have gotten married in the city you’re interested in. If someone had a negative experience, it would be worthwhile to know about that, too.

Read Reviews

Checking reviews is common practice now, whether you're considering going out for dinner or buying a pair of shoes.

It definitely would be worthwhile to get input on the locations you're considering for one of the most important days of your life.

But, keep in mind, some reviews are more helpful than others. Go beyond the headlines and number of stars people have given venues and consider the details that influenced their decisions, including quality of service, responsiveness, food, and hidden charges.

Reach Out to a Few Venues with Basic Questions

You've done some online research, gathered some recommendations, and now you need to decide where you want to book site visits.

Things to ask about include:

-Their availability on the wedding date you’ve chosen—or dates they’re available during the month or season you’re thinking about.

-Their guest capacity

-Their rental fees and what’s included

-Additional fees

-Deposits and their payment schedule

-Their cancellation policy

-Time restrictions

-Contingency plans for outdoor wedding spaces

-If they have liability insurance

-Local/neighborhood laws and rules that could impact your plans, such as sound ordinances.

Consider Your Guests' Experience

As you consider wedding venues, think about the people who will be attending.

Are the wedding venue options on your list accessible to everyone who will be attending, including guests who are wheelchair-bound or at risk of falling?

How convenient is the parking? Are bathrooms easy to find? What do your prospective venues do to ensure guests are comfortable, from sound to temperature control?

How Many Wedding Venues Should You Tour?

The number of venues you tour is entirely up to you and what your tie and energy will allow.

As long as each wedding venue you visit has the potential to satisfy the priorities you've set, you’re on the right track.

Questions to Ask When Touring a Wedding Venue

Here are some more questions for you to ask as you start touring wedding venues.

-Do you provide in-house catering?

-Do you allow outside caterers?

-Can we do a food tasting before making our menu selections?

-Is there a cake-cutting fee?

-Is there a corkage fee?

-Tell me about your alcohol prices. Is there a bar minimum?

-Are there staffing charges?

-How many bathrooms do you have?

-Do you provide sound equipment?

-What security services do you offer?

-What time can my vendors start setting up on my wedding day?

-Are there any limitations on what we do to decorate?

-When do we need to have our space cleared out?

-What is your policy for bad weather?

-How do you prepare for power outages?

-Do you have an emergency plan?

-Do you provide tents, space heaters, or umbrellas for outdoor weddings?

This is not a comprehensive list, but hopefully, these questions will give you some ideas for additional ones of your own.

Finding a Houston-Area Wedding Venue

Houston is one of the largest wedding markets in the country and has no shortage of wedding venues for you to consider.

One reason our wedding and event venue, The Bell Tower on 34th, is one of the most popular Modern Wedding Venues in Houston is our centralized location, a short drive from downtown Houston, the Galleria, and George Bush Intercontinental Airport.

As a result, the venue is convenient for out-of-town guests, including those who want easy access to Houston-area attractions, restaurants, and hotels. The spot, just off the I-610 Loop, is also an easy commute for residents throughout Houston, along with Montgomery County and Fort Bend County.

In addition to offering a gorgeous building and grounds, we provide a dedicated team committed to excellence.

Schedule a visit to The Bell Tower on 34th.

Pros and Cons of Drone Wedding Photography

You could argue that a well-orchestrated wedding has elements of a film or stage presentation including gorgeous settings, anticipation, romance, and powerful emotions.

And now, thanks to drone photography, you can add a cinematic feel to your pictures of your big day, whether you’re planning a large formal affair or more of an intimate, reception-only wedding.

Drone photography refers to images taken by a remote-controlled or autonomous unmanned aerial vehicle equipped with a high-resolution camera. Using drones, photographers can capture stunning scenes from overhead.

This approach to wedding photography has become highly sought after by couples, but it’s not for everyone.

Below, you’ll find some of the pros and cons of drone wedding photography so you can decide if getting shots from above is a good fit for you. But first, for those of you already interested in drone photography, we have a few tips for getting the best possible results.

Tips for You

Select your photographer carefully. You want a photographer who’s experienced in drone photographer and has Part 107 certification from the FAA to fly drones. They also should be insured.

Less will be more. While drone photography can contribute amazing shots to your collection of wedding photos, you’ll want a variety of shots. We recommend encouraging your photographer to use their drone strategically—and sparingingly.

Also, keep in mind that drones make a sound. So, you may want to talk about optimum moments for using drones and when it would be best to stick with traditional photography.

Talk with your wedding venue. Make sure drones are allowed to be flown at their location. If the venue is near an airport, for example, drones may not be an option.

Now, on to the pros and cons of drone photography.

Benefits

If you’re planning an outdoor wedding in a scenic spot, drone photography is a highly effective way to capture the natural beauty surrounding you, from mountains and lakes to colorful garden scenes.

You have an opportunity to capture truly creative shots with a drone, and it can add a unique feel to images of key moments like the couple’s send-off.

Drones, even from their vantage point high above, can capture surprisingly intimate scenes as well. One of their strengths is their ability to help brides and grooms witness touching moments from a unique perspective.

Drones can transform traditional group shots into something special. You also can use them to capture the sense of fun and excitement at your event.

Drones may not be ideal for severe weather (see more below), but they can handle cold temperatures. If you’re planning a winter wedding and want some lovely outdoor shots, drones can get the job done.

Drones also help you capture the beauty of your venue and the surrounding grounds. And if you’re marrying in a unique location, like a theatre or historical building, a drone is an ideal way to take exterior shots.

Drawbacks

Between engine noise and their propellors, drones can be noisy. Depending on when your photographer uses them, they can be distracting. If you do opt to use them, talk with your photographer about running them strategically.

Drone photography can be expensive. Wondering how much you can expect to pay? According to wedmegood.com, the average cost for drone photography at a wedding is $10,000 to $15,000 per day. If you’re looking for an affordable way to capture the fun and unique moments at your wedding, in addition to your photographer’s on-the-ground shots, you might want to go with a considerably more affordable choice like a photobooth.

There is also a bit of a risk factor. While it’s unlikely, a drone—like any aircraft—could crash. Ask your photographer about their drone experience.

Some venues prohibit drone use. If getting spectacular drone shots is a priority, ask your venues if they have any policies or restrictions you should know about.

Like many aspects of your outdoor wedding, drone photography can be impacted by weather. Yes, many drones are water-resistant and can even handle a windy day. But, if the weather is more severe, your chances of getting good shots are reduced. Of course, at that point, you may be moving your wedding indoors. We recommend talking to your photographer about how they adjust pricing when drone shots have to be canceled.

Drone photography is a popular wedding choice for good reasons: it can add a unique element of beauty and drama to your pictures. But, it certainly isn’t a must for an incredible photo album.

Contact the Bell Tower on 34th to learn more about how we can work with your photographer to help you get the beautiful wedding shots you’ve been envisioning.

Cool Wedding Cake Ideas

One of the stars of the show at most weddings—in addition to the couple, of course—is the wedding cake.

Not only is the cake an iconic wedding symbol that you and your guests can enjoy together, but it is also a great way to showcase your unique sense of style and personality.

Cakes are such a deeply entrenched tradition that even when people have a private wedding ceremony or elope, they still try to have a wedding cake.

These days, wedding cake trends range from small, simple creations perfect for small weddings to highly creative, edible works of art.

You can find a sampling of some of the wedding cake trends we’ve been seeing listed below.

Going All Out

Show-stopping wedding cakes that reach dramatic heights or feature elaborate designs are big (no pun intended) this year.

These cakes often go above and beyond the traditional three tiers for weddings and sometimes tie in with couples’ wedding themes.

Bas Relief Designs

More and more bakers are using are incorporating a carving technique known as bas relief into their wedding cake creations.

According to Cake-Geek.com, bas relief refers to “a pattern that is raised up from the surface of a piece of art.” And until recently, it was a term associated with sculpting.

“It's a beautiful method—one that translates just as prettily onto the blank canvas that is your wedding cake,” Sarah Schreiber wrote for MarthaStewart.com.  “It's also relatively subtle, which makes it a perfect option for couples who want to add refined, elevated detail work to their big-day dessert.”

Bold and Bright

If you believe your wedding should be an expression of joy and fun, you may want your cake to express those sentiments. 

The good news is, cakes in show-stopping colors—from blues, greens, and plums to primaries like blue, red, and yellow—are in hot demand.

Bakers are adding color to wedding cakes with colored fondant, dyed frostings, sugar art, hand-painted artistic touches, sprinkles, gold accents, and according to MarthaStewart.com, they’re even creating naked cakes “with splashes of dyed batter or layers of frosting.”

Marble Cake

These modern cakes are loved for their beauty, elegance, and modern vibe.

“The marbling is created by partially kneading a little colour into fondant and rolling it out,” Elizabeth Solaru wrote for Wedding Forward. “Most marble wedding cakes tend to be unadorned, but marble cakes work well with metallics such as gold or silver and also with geodes to create a stunning impact.”

Naked Wedding Cakes

What these cakes lack in frosting, they make up for in flavor and moisture.

Naked cakes were a big trend in 2013 and have been evolving since then.

"Most of our clients choose a naked or semi-naked design simply because they love the look and it fits the rustic or sometimes industrial theme of their venue and wedding reception," Ashley Lattier of Ashley Cakes told Brides Magazine. “A semi-naked cake follows the same style, with a bit more frosting on the cake. For this style, the baker typically adds a very thin layer of frosting to the cake, scraping the edges to let the cake layers show through.”

Pressed Flowers

The trend of pressing edible flowers into cakes didn’t get its start this year, but it is going strong.

To be clear, we’re not talking about flowers made of fondant or sugar—these are real flowers, and their visual impact is stunning.

“I love how they all range in color,” Janderyn Makris, owner of Earth and Sugar, told Brides magazine. “And, because it is particular in style, it doesn’t have to match the wedding decor. It is its own style that reflects ethereal beauty, and best of all, it can be done on a buttercream cake.”

Ruffle Cakes

Ruffle wedding cakes are a wildly popular trend these days, Alice Prendergast wrote for WeddingWire Canada.

“They’re classic, romantic and can be made to fit just about any wedding theme with just a few tweaks,” she added.

As with many wedding cake styles, ruffles lend themselves to a wide range of options, from traditional (with thin, horizontal lines of buttercream), to oversized to a more modern design with vertical lines.

Contact the Bell Tower on 34th to learn more about how we can help you create an excellent event that no one will ever forget.

18 Podcasts Packed with Wedding Planning Advice

Wish you could ask other couples what they learned from their wedding planning experiences?

Would you like to pick the brains of experts in the wedding industry?

Or…do you simply need more hours in the day to research wedding planning ideas?

If any of these scenarios apply to you, podcasts could be a great resource to add to your planning tools.

Wedding-planning podcasts introduce you to a wide range of perspectives, from everyday couples to nationally known wedding industry experts. Their insights can help you with the many decisions in your future, from picking the right dress to creating your wedding dinner menu. And you can listen while you’re walking your dog or commuting to work.

Podcasts have their limitations, especially if you prefer to take in information visually or would rather have the details you gather in writing, but they can offer inspiration, solutions, and at times, a much-needed laugh or two.

Here’s a list of some of the many wedding podcasts available to you.

1. The Bouquet Toss

This podcast explores the history behind wedding traditions and trends and shares resources to help couples decide what to keep and what “to toss.”

Episodes also share practical planning advice.

Recent topics include “Time and Money Hacks for Wedding Planning and Beyond” and “Why You Should’t ‘Toss” Pre-Marital Counseling.”

2. The Stars Inside: The Wedding Podcast

This podcast shares real wedding stories, planning tips, and advice for working successfully with wedding vendors. Recent topics include budgeting, adding meaningful touches to a bridal outfit, and budgets.

3. Every Day I’m Bustlin’: A Wedding Planning Podcast

Husband-wife team Ryan and Samie Rogers, co-founders of online wedding-planning service, Bustld, guide couples through “all things wedding planning.” Recent episodes include “Planning Your Wedding Day Timeline” and “Combining Finances as a Couple with Guest Alli Williams.”

4. His and Hers Foto

During this Houston-based wedding podcast, a husband-and-wife team talk about photography, weddings, and life. One of their episodes, “Things we have learned on the road,” covers “things to avoid or to be ready for, things that go wrong and vendors that fix them.”

5. Hue I Do

Two brides, Ashleigh Coffie & Toniah Paryo Gray, who each was the other’s maid of honor, talk weddings with other brides, couples, and vendors. Recent topics: “Inviting Kids to the Wedding” and “Dissecting Imposter Bridal & Wedding Syndrome.”

Indian Wedding Podcast

This show describes itself as an effort to introduce brides, grooms, and their families to exceptional people in the Indian wedding industry. The podcast shares insider tips on photography, planning, catering, jewelry, catering, wardrobe, and more.

7. Planet Wedding

Hear tips, tricks, and advice from a professional wedding photographer. Recent podcast topics include “Should You Have an Unplugged Wedding Ceremony,” “How Many Wedding Photos Should You Get,” and “5 Tips for Planning Your Dream Wedding.”

8. So You’re Engaged, Now What?

This podcast is a production by wedding services company, Live Picture Studios. During each weekly episode, hosts Jean and Natasha interview guests about budgeting, planning, selecting vendors, and couples’ wedding-planning experiences.

9. The Big Wedding Planning Podcast

Launched by wedding planner Michelle Martinez in 2016, this podcast emphasizes “heart, humor, and honesty,” and is for anyone involved in planning a wedding. Recent topics explore print materials, bromance among grooms and their friends, and destination weddings.

10. The Itty Bitty Wedding Committee

Your hosts for this broadcast are friends and longtime wedding industry professionals, Kate Reavey and Alyson Thompson. The Wedding Chicks blog describes this program as “the NSFW (not safe for work) wedding podcast the world didn't know it needed.” The podcast, rich in humor, tackles a different wedding planning topic every week.

11. The Jewish Wedding Podcast

The videographers at Creative Image Productions, which has been filming Jewish weddings and events for a decade, bring in former clients and wedding professionals to share stories, answer questions, and enjoy a few laughs.

12. The Tea on Weddings

Hosted by Mark and Emily Photography, this wedding-planning podcast features guest interviews with brides, vendors, and other wedding experts. Recent episodes include “Next Steps After Getting Engaged,” “Wedding Horror Stories,” and “Choosing Your Ceremony Music.”

13. The Wedding Biz - Behind the Scenes of the Wedding Business

Andy Kushner, the founder of The Wedding Biz Network, brings other industry pros to the podcast to share behind-the-scenes insights and planning advice. Recent interviewees have ranged from Anna Price Olson, editorial director of Brides magazine, to Tom Kehoe, CEO of event design and decor company, Kehoe Designs.

14. The Woman Getting Married Podcast

Lindsay Jones, the founder and editor of WomanGettingMarried.com, and her husband, Cory, take on tricky wedding-planning questions. Recent episodes include “How to Make Wedding Guests Feel Welcome” and “Wedding Q&A: Bachelorette Party Etiquette, Black Tie & Pizza, and Choosing Which Kids to Invite.”

15. This vs That, Wedding Decisions with Kelly McWilliams

Host Kelly McWilliams, a wedding planner and designer, helps engaged couples work their way through the many choices in their path. Should they have toasts and speeches at their wedding? Do they want flowers or greenery? Should they hire a band or a DJ? McWilliams tries to provide the information couples will need to make informed decisions.

16. Wedding Confessionals - For Brides, Grooms & More

Hosts Pam and Brooke chat with guests about their “crazy, intense, and ridiculous wedding experiences;” share anonymous confessionals from listeners; and offer advice intended to ease wedding-planning tension.

17. Wedding Planning Collective

Host Kate McClellan, in her podcast description, says her program is for anyone with questions about planning their wedding, from making menu choices to selecting the right venue. “Each week I'll be sharing my planning tips, inspiration, and sanity savers to keep you from losing your mind while planning your wedding,” she writes.

18. Wedding Planning Podcast

This series promotes itself as a new way to thrive throughout engagement by “embracing who you are, prioritizing what you value, and ultimately designing an unforgettable wedding celebration.” Recent episodes range from “Wedding Contract Essentials” to “Zero Stress Wedding Dress Shopping.”

Learn more about The Bell Tower on 34th and how we can help you create an unforgettable wedding.

Surviving Uncomfortable Wedding Moments

In 2020, when BuzzFeed asked readers to share their most awkward wedding moments, the responses ran the gamut, from a case of uncontrollable laughter during a couple’s ceremony to a flying shoe. One person even had a tale of accidentally setting her veil on fire as she attempted to light a unity candle.

We’re not mentioning this to worry you, only to make the point that life happens, even during weddings.

The good news is that a less-than-ideal moment doesn’t have to dampen the joy of your big day. If an awkward moment does occur, you’ll be among many couples who’ve encountered similar situations.

We’d like to help. Below, we’ve listed some of the most common causes of wedding embarrassment, along with our suggestions for getting through those moments.

Someone wrongly assumes they are invited.

This is one of those awkward moments that probably will take place before or after your wedding. If a friend or colleague asks when they should plan to attend your wedding—or why they didn’t get an invitation— begin the conversation by telling them you appreciate the fact they want to be there for you.

In an interview with Brides magazine, etiquette expert Heather Wiese-Alexander suggested explaining the number of people you could invite was limited.

Then make plans to meet for dinner, or something you typically enjoy together, after the wedding planning is through, Wiese-Alexander said, and thank them for being a part of your life.

Your flower girl or RING bearer does not want to walk the aisle.

Maybe you’ve planned to have a child in your ceremony, a flower girl or ring bearer, and when the moment comes, they refuse to cooperate or have a tantrum.

Don’t try to force them to participate—Just move forward with your ceremony without them. Have their parent or a close relative on call to watch them and bring them to the ceremony once the child is calm.

Guests are late to the ceremony.

This is a job for ushers, or designated volunteers to handle. They can stand at the venue entrance as the ceremony takes place and help late arrivals find seats when the timing is right. (Be sure to talk in advance so you’re all on the same page when it comes to appropriate times to seat late guests.)

A guest drinks too much at the reception.

This is not necessarily a situation where you should confront the guest. A good bartender should be able to help, though it might be worthwhile to have a conversation with them in advance about how you’d want over-imbibing handled. You also can enlist help in advance from your venue, a trusted family member, or even line up security.

An unexpected guest attends.

We encourage you to touch base with your venue and caterer in advance about their policies for unexpected guests. They probably will be willing to accommodate these situations for an additional charge. Generally, it is not good etiquette to turn people away—unless the unexpected guest’s presence is likely to lead to tension or a conflict with other family or friends. If that’s the case, this is another situation where you can ask a planner, security, or a trusted family member to take charge of the situation.

A phone rings at the wrong time.

In this era, a ringing phone is a fairly common wedding occurrence. In most cases, your officiant will be prepared to make a joke and keep the ceremony moving when the theme song to a guest’s favorite TV show starts playing in the background.

There’s a dance music glitch.

Every now and then, a DJ or band will play the wrong song for your first dance. The best thing to do is politely ask them to switch to the song you had in mind. If there’s a problem, WeddingWire suggests winging it and focusing on having fun. If you planned to present a choreographed dance, you can always ask the DJ or bandleader to get the correct song ready and announce your special moment later in the reception.

A toast goes wrong.

Maybe a speaker has started sharing TMI about an ex-partner, or the best man cracked an inappropriate joke. The best response is to laugh, smile, and keep the moment positive. Your guests will follow your cue. If someone’s toast starts running too long, your bandleader, DJ, or emcee can offer a silent signal that their time is up.

Guests Don’t Like Each Other

Not everyone that you want at your wedding necessarily wants to spend time with one another. Your guests could include, for example, two people who used to be a couple, relatives who aren’t on great terms, or people who just rub each other the wrong way.

Good communication can help here. Speak to guests who may have issues with other guests in advance. Assign them to different tables at your reception so they can avoid one another. And, if possible, ask a trusted neutral guest to be on call to try to step in to diffuse drama before it can start.

Corporate Catering Trends

While the pandemic is now behind us, its impact on corporate events lingers on. Companies and event planners working on their behalf are continuing to work to make guests feel safe and welcome—and to accommodate the public’s growing interest in staying healthy

If you will be attending or planning a corporate event this year, here are some of the catering trends you can anticipate.

Serving and Sizes

When it comes to food, caterers are responding to increased requests for individually sized portions. What does this look like? It can range from miniature food items (sliders and desserts in shot glasses) to individual cheese and charcuterie boards.

That’s not to say customers are turning their backs on buffets and food stations.

“I believe that the buffet will continue to exist, and it’s going to evolve in the way that it’s serviced,” Lenny Talarico, chief experience officer at Lental Productions, told video teleconferencing software provider, hopin.

Buffet and food stations are accommodating corporate customers by organizing serving tables to minimize crowding and long lines, individually wrapping snacks and desserts, and offering pre-plated entrees upon request.

Healthier Choices

Customers, now eager to go a step beyond healthy foods, have been requesting immunity-boosting selections for their corporate events.

These requests include probiotic foods that support good bacteria in the gut and bolster our immune systems. Examples of probiotics include Greek yogurt, which caterers can offer in parfaits, dips, and dressings; artichoke, perfect for meat and vegetable dishes, even bruschetta; and cabbage, which can be part of salads and vegetable dishes.

We’re also seeing growing interest in “prebiotics,” foods that set the stage for a beneficial probiotic environment by feeding the friendly bacteria in our gut. Many prebiotics are good fits for catered dishes, either on their own or as ingredients, including asparagus, blueberries, cranberries, cashews, edamame, garlic, onions, leeks, bananas, oats, and apples.

 Also high in demand for their immunity-boosting qualities are:

-Dishes made with açaí berries, which are considered a superfood for their immunity-boosting properties (and other benefits). At corporate events, caterers are serving açaí bowls, açaí smoothies, even açaí ice cream.

-Citrus fruits, which are loaded with immunity-boosting Vitamin C. Think fresh fruit juices, fruit and green-leaf salads with citrus, and elegant vegetable dishes complemented with citrus.

(Other ingredients high in Vitamin C include red bell peppers, think salads, chili, and hash browns, and spinach, perfect for salads, spinach quesadillas, and Chicken Roulade Florentine.)

-Garlic, which contains allicin and is known for strengthening immune systems. Caterers are adding roasted garlic to salads, vegetable dishes, and meat entrees.

-Elderberry, which is loaded with antioxidants and vitamins that help boost immunity. Caterers are delivering it in smoothies and elderberry-infused waters.

Flexitarian and Vegetarian

While offering plant-based options is hardly a new catering trend, it’s going strong.

This includes an interest in “flexitarian” diets, which include vegan (no animal products) choices along with meats and other animal products in moderation. To keep flexitarians happy, caterers are offering high-quality meats, so flexitarians feel their splurge is truly worth it, and creating delicious, outside-of-the-box plant-based selections.

“The rise in demand (for planted based food) is most noticeable on the corporate level,”  Fia Pagnello, founder and CEO of Kiss the Cook Catering, told CFE (Catering, Foodservice & Events). “Offices are increasingly focused on sustainability, and this is now starting to impact their purchasing when it comes to food.”

Caterers also are offering plant-based versions of non-vegetarian menu items like lasagna, and their vegan and vegetarian selections include international cuisine and dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Mushrooms: The New Kale

Mushrooms are a huge trend in corporate catering this year, possibly because of their taste, versatility, and nutritional value.

Most of the mushrooms being incorporated into caterers’ menus are white button mushrooms. Other popular choices are flavorful cremini mushrooms (young Portobello mushrooms), which make an excellent meat substitute, and shitake mushrooms, known for their light, woodsy flavor.

For a catering menu, think vegetable skewers with mushrooms, sautéed mushrooms with fresh herbs, wild mushroom soup, mushroom quesadillas, fillet mignon with mushroom sauce, braised lamb shank with mushrooms…and a multitude of other options.

Guests Want Creative Mocktails

Mocktails, non-alcoholic drinks that mimic their alcoholic counterparts, are always a great choice for corporate events. Attendees enjoy them, and the drinks don’t interfere with their ability to remain professional or focus on the information being shared.

With interest so high in healthy choices, high-quality mocktails are in especially high demand these days, and caterers are happy to accommodate.

“We’re better than Shirley Temples,” Jesse Hawkins, founder of Louisville-based The Mocktail Project, told PCMA (founded as the Professional Convention Management Association).

Guests at corporate events are enjoying unique takes on alcohol-free margaritas, mint juleps, and mojitos along with caterers’ and bartenders’ signature creations.

More Creativity on the Horizon

It has been encouraging to see companies return to live events, and their ability to make that transition, at least in part, is due to accommodating and innovative catering services.

We’re confident that the catering industry will continue to evolve to satisfy corporate clients and the people who attend their events.

About the Author: Roger Igo is the founder and CEO of wedding and special events venue, The Bell Tower on 34th. He is the author of “Keep On Going, The History of The Bell Tower on 34th,” a former radio host, a graduate of CEO Space International, and an alumnus of The Disney Institute.

Using Rentals to Infuse Personality Into Your Wedding

When you think about wedding rentals, do images of tents, tables, and linens come to mind?

That would only make sense: Those are some of the most commonly rented items at weddings, and rightly so, since they can save you the expense of buying and transporting them, along with storing them after the event.

But wedding rentals and venue upgrades also offer an opportunity for you to add creative touches to your wedding that are undeniably you—or to go a bit grander with your décor.

“That's the thing about rentals—they can make your big-day dreams come true, without the commitment of a one-time purchase,” Chloe Gorman wrote for MarthaStewart.com.

With that in mind, we’ve put together a few suggestions for using rentals to satisfy your creative wedding visions.

Pro tip: The sheer volume of rental options can be overwhelming. We suggest starting your planning by establishing a color scheme and/or theme, and then you can start looking for items that will support your vision.

Table Elements

Since your wedding guests will spend the majority of their time at their reception table, this is a perfect place to incorporate your unique style, beginning with your table linens.

“The napkins, tablecloth, and runner are additions that can showcase your creativity. Rebecca O’Dea of BBJ Linen told Brides magazine.” You can mix and match colors and fabrics to create a customized look.”

You can find linens in a huge variety of colors, patterns, fabrics, and textures—your artistic tools for expressing yourself.

And your options don’t stop there. Even your chargers, holders for the plates holding meal courses, can serve as creative elements. Use chargers to add a luxurious feel to your tables, or add fun by creating a mix of materials and colors. Chargers are also a great way to make other table elements shine. Gold chargers, for example, with gold flatware, can make the colors pop on your tablecloth or other decorative items.

Additional possibilities include renting China pieces for vintage, rustic or Victorian themes—or mixing pieces to add whimsy and color to your place settings.

Flatware and stemware offer additional options for infusing your personality into your wedding, vintage or special theme

Pro tip: As you consider your table options, try to keep the big picture in mind. For example, if you’re going to display mismatched China or chargers, you’ll also want some neutral elements—possibly your table linens—so items aren’t competing for attention.

Lighting

Your wedding lighting choices are another way to let your personality shine at your wedding.

Using rentals, you can create hang fairy lights for an enchanting effect, put out lanterns for a rustic or vintage feel, or display chandeliers for a touch of glamour.

If you want a whimsical effect, consider hanging rice paper lanterns over your dance floor—or go all out and bathe the entire reception area in light from a glowing overhead canopy.

Create Your Own Lounge Area

Another popular trend, and option for wedding personalization, is the lounge area.

While many venues offer areas where you and your guests can sit and relax, you always can create a lounge of your own—or add some special touches to what’s there.

Possibilities include:

-Renting sofas, loveseats, and chairs that support your wedding theme—or simply offer comfort

-Going a step further and renting side or coffee tables, where you can display signs, photos, and other personal touches

-Throwing in some pillows or rugs for extra pops of color and personality

-Enhancing the room’s appeal with rented live potted plants. (Rented plants and silk flowers also can be arranged along your aisle and displayed on reception tables.)

Some rental businesses specifically offer lounge packages. Borrow My Vintage in West Branch, Iowa, for example, invites customers to select from a wide variety of items, from blue-velvet couches, rugs, and pillows to signs, lanterns, and terrariums.

Mirror Rentals

Mirrors have become a popular way to add beauty and elegance to weddings.

One option is to transform them into customized signs: Use them to display seating charts or your signature cocktail.

Mirrors also can enhance the atmosphere you’re aiming for. You can find modern, artsy mirrors, antique mirrors; mirrors in dramatic frames. They’re a great tool for adding more personality to your event.

Whether you want to add dramatic elements to your wedding or a few strategic, creative touches, renting is a helpful—and often affordable—way to achieve your goals.

18 Wedding Favor Ideas

Wedding favors—gifts for guests—may have evolved over the years, but the practice of giving them is alive and well.

Most couples present favors during their reception, but you also can include them in hotel welcome packages or distribute the favors during a next-day brunch.

Event planner Summer Newman told Brides magazine she sees favors as a tangible symbol of thanks from a couple to their guests.

“It goes back to gracious hosting,” Newman said. “Favors tell your guests that you appreciate them coming out to celebrate you.”

The goal is to select items guests actually will want to keep—or enjoy in the moment, Alyssa Brown wrote for MarthaStewart.com.

“Gone are the days of monogrammed candies and wasteful tchotchkes that'll end up in the garbage,” Brown said. “Now, couples are more interested in giving their guests something meaningful that'll remind them of the experience they had at your wedding, or else something edible they can enjoy right away.”

If you’re leaning toward offering favors, you may be wondering how much to budget for them. In her interview with Brides, Newman recommended $10 to $20 per guest. For food items, though, you can go as low as $5 per guest.

Fun fact: Wedding favors date back at least as far as 16th-century England, when couples gave love knots made of lace and ribbon to their guests. The love knots symbolized the couple’s bond.

A bit later, European aristocrats began the trend of giving each guest a small gift known as a “bonbonniere.” These gifts, also given at other celebrations, were small boxes made of porcelain, crystal, or metal. They were filled with confectionaries. You could say the bonbonniere set the mold for the gift-wrapped boxes of sweets some couples give guests today.

Now all you have to do is select your favors. Here are your ideas.

1.     Packets of seeds for herbs or flowers in customized packaging

2.     Packages of coffee, whole or ground beans

3.     Brides magazine suggests filling test tubes with cocoa mix and adding customized tags. You could take the same approach with tea leaves.

4.     Speaking of chocolate, it’s hard to disappoint with chocolate favors. Try engraved bars, packets with a variety of treats, or s’ more kits.

5.     Give mini bottles of wine, Champagne, or liquor. Or… give guests mini cocktail kits.

6.     Soaps

7.     Give packets of seasoning blends, meat rubs, or spices.

8.     Frosted sugar cookies

9.     Butterfly garden kits

10.  You also can go with favors that tie in with your theme. Are you planning a movie-themed wedding? Give guests gourmet popcorn kernels. Will your wedding have a disco vibe? Give guests disco ball keychains. Are you thinking of a summer wedding? Give guests travel-sized sunscreen, sunglasses, and flip-flops in a cute beach bag. Another summer option would be s’more kits.

11.  Luggage tags

12.  Engraved shot glasses

13.  Jars of honey, jam, or maple syrup

14.  Go Texas with Lone Star magnets, barbecue sauce, hot sauce, pecans, Texas wildflower seeds, or mini bottles of tequila.

15.  Wine charms

16. Small bottles of olive oil

17. Unique bottle openers

18. Tiny succulents

Note: If you find the idea of favors wasteful, consider donating to a charity or nonprofit that resonates with you. If you’re passionate about animals, for example, contribute money to a local rescue organization. If your wedding has a theatre theme, donate to a local performing arts organization. You can put the donation information on your wedding website and invite guests to make donations of their own.

You can also use your wedding’s photo booth prints as wedding favors, which would be meaningful to guests and help you manage expenses.

About the Author: Roger Igo is the founder and CEO of the special events venue, The Bell Tower on 34th. He is the author of “Keep On Going, The History of The Bell Tower on 34th,” a former radio host, a graduate of CEO Space International, and an alumnus of The Disney Institute.

The Ins and Outs of Matching Wedding Bands

Matching wedding bands for the bride and groom are making a comeback.

True, this choice isn't for everyone, and some people prefer to select a unique wedding band for themself that expresses their individual personality.

But for others, opting for a pair of wedding bands that match is another way to symbolize a couple’s union and the lives they will be sharing.

Do Wedding Bands Need to Match?

If you haven't had an opportunity to see matching wedding bands, also known as couple wedding bands or paired wedding rings, the bride’s and the groom’s wedding bands are not necessarily identical.

Instead, these wedding ring sets complement one another: They feature the same metals, stones, and colors.

If this idea intrigues you, you can find more details below, along with tips on selecting rings that not only match one another but also your tastes and budget.

Does the Groom Buy Both Rings?

Wondering who buys the groom’s ring or if couples pick wedding rings together? When it comes to selecting wedding rings, there are no hard rules on who should purchase them.

Traditionally, the groom will buy the bride's engagement ring and wedding band while the bride will buy the groom's wedding band. However, more couples today are breaking from tradition and shopping for rings together.

The Appeal of Wedding Rings that Match

Why opt for matching wedding bands? It can be a meaningful way to express your shared journey ahead.

Coordinating your rings helps tell the story of your relationship and provides a physical reminder of your love and partnership.

Bands that match also can showcase unity on the wedding day and in everyday life.

For many couples, these ring sets represent the start of a new chapter, visually cementing their changed relationship status.

Beginning Your Search

When searching for the perfect wedding bands for the two of you, keep the following tips in mind.

Cost Considerations

First, set a budget that works for both of you.

The price of wedding rings can vary greatly depending on several key factors. First, the metal you choose will affect the cost significantly. Precious metals like platinum and gold are the most expensive, while silver, tungsten, and stainless steel are more budget-friendly options. The karat or purity of the gold also impacts the price. 24K gold is the purest and priciest. 14K and 18K gold offer an alloyed mix that is less expensive.

The style and intricacy of the wedding band design are additional cost determinants. Simple unadorned bands are generally cheaper than highly detailed rings with multiple stones or embellishments. The number, cut, clarity, color, and carat size of any diamonds or gemstones will drive up the price as well. Larger center stones and multiple smaller accent stones increase the overall cost.

You'll also want to consider the brand and jeweler you purchase from. Well-known designers and luxury jewelry retailers charge more compared to online vendors or independent local jewelers. Custom-designed rings usually cost more than pre-made options too. Extra engraving or resizing services can add to the total price.

Talk About Your Preferences

Next, have an open conversation about the style you both envision. Look through inspiration images online, on social media sites like Facebook and Pinterest, or in magazines, and talk about your preferences in metal, width, and embellishments.

You should also talk about the number of rings the bride will wear: Some opt to wear an engagement ring, a wedding band, and a third ring that celebrates the couple’s first year together, a child, or a shared future.

(You may be wondering how to keep three rings together. One solution is to use ring guards, which prevent rings from knocking into one another or moving.)

In any case, if your tastes differ significantly, you can always opt for wedding band sets that share a common element, like a type of metal or a stone, but have their own styles.

Do Your Research

It's wise to research options thoroughly before purchasing. Explore jewelry stores together and shop around virtually to get a sense of what's out there. Don't feel pressured into making a decision. Take your time, weighing the pros and cons of different metals and designs.

More on Metals

When choosing metal for your wedding rings, there are a few key considerations.

Gold is prized for its beautiful yellow tone and longevity. Yellow gold or white gold alloys (mixed with silver or nickel) reduce cost, but may cause skin reactions for those with allergies.

Rose gold is another option that offers a unique romantic hue. An alloy of gold and copper, rose gold gets its warm reddish-pink tone from the copper content. Compared to yellow and white gold, rose gold is trendier and a bit more affordable. The pinkish color is flattering on many skin tones and ideal for those who want a wedding band that stands out.

Platinum rings are extremely durable, naturally silver-white, and hypoallergenic but come with a higher price tag.

Silver is affordably priced, but requires more maintenance since it tarnishes over time.

Palladium offers customers a more affordable alternative to platinum. Tungsten and titanium are budget-friendly metals praised for strength and scratch resistance, but resizing these contemporary metals can prove tricky.

For green-minded couples, recycled metals are a sustainable option. Rings made from antique gold or reused materials reduce environmental impact.

Vermeil rings have a sterling silver base plated with gold for shine.

A Note About Ring Sizes

As you're doing your research, take the time to make sure you know what your ring sizes are.

You'll want to get sized properly so your rings will fit comfortably and won't require resizing. Schedule ring sizing as one of your first appointments when shopping together. Most jewelry stores offer complimentary sizing. The jeweler will use a thin metal sizer to determine your current size. For the most accuracy, they may measure both your ring and middle finger.

If visiting a jeweler isn’t feasible, you can print a free plastic ring sizer online to measure at home. Slide different sizer strips through the opening until one fits snugly without constricting. Measure the circular sizer opening with a ruler to determine your approximate size. Keep in mind your ring size may fluctuate slightly over time or in different seasons.

Trying on potential wedding bands gives you the best sense of fit. Pay attention to comfort and ensure the band moves smoothly along your finger but does not slip off easily. A properly fitted band should feel secure without feeling too tight.

The Final Stretch

Once you've narrowed down the selection, schedule appointments to see the potential rings in person.

Try them on and pay close attention to comfort and visual appeal. Engravings inside the rings can be a nice touch, but make sure the text aligns with your style.

Team Effort

Remember, you'll wear these rings every day, so choose something meaningful that excites you both.

With teamwork and good communication, you'll be able to select wedding bands that reflect your love story.

Roger Igo is the founder and CEO of special events venue, The Bell Tower on 34th, which delivers weddings and corporate events. He is the author of “Keep On Going, The History of The Bell Tower on 34th,” a former radio host, a graduate of CEO Space International, and an alumnus of The Disney Institute.