Tag: wedding

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love: weddings

5 Things Brides Regret Skipping at Their Wedding

Wedding planning is a lot… You’re constantly facing new decisions, and these decisions have so many factors (cost, timing, your happiness, happiness of your guests, etc.).

I have dug into various wedding-related social networking groups and rallied up 5 of the most common things that brides regret not doing at their wedding.

So, if you’re in the midst of your wedding planning, keep reading and make sure you give these 5 things a little extra thought before tossing them to the side.

#1… Not giving the photographer a must-have photo checklist

Your wedding photos are so important. Plus, you most likely end up spending a fortune on a wonderful photographer.

Not getting the fun photo of you and your partner walking down the aisle after the ceremony, or the sentimental photo of yourself with your grandparents, is a big deal.

Before the big day, send over a checklist to your photographer of any photos you absolutely can’t miss out on.

Consider the following:

  • Front and back pictures of you (just you) in your wedding dress
  • Group pictures if your bridal party, and 1 on 1 pictures of you with each one of them
  • Locations at your venue that you want a picture near
  • Special moments you want captured (dances, speeches, etc.)
  • Anything else that you must-have photographed, or not photographed at your wedding

#2… Not wearing comfortable Wedding Shoes

Of course, you want the dreamy bridal heels you’ve been eyeing up for months now.

Just keep in mind that you will be in these shoes all day, and night long.

Can you do it? You don’t want to sacrifice dancing the night away because the blisters on your feet are killing your vibe.

Consider getting a second pair of shoes to switch into after the ceremony. There are loads of beautiful bridal flats that are both comfortable and stylish.

#3… Not making a bridal emergency kit

It’s important to look your best and feel your best on your wedding day. I’m sure you also want your bridal party and close family to feel this way too.

Bring an emergency kit (or ask you MOH to help put one together) that is filled with everything you just might need on your wedding day.

Here’s some great examples of what to stock in your kit:

  • Bobby pins, hair ties, hairspray, curling iron
  • Chapstick and lipstick
  • Concealer and powder
  • Blotting paper – we don’t want oily foreheads in pictures
  • Tide-to-go
  • Gum or mints
  • Floss
  • Advil, tums, eye drops
  • Kleenex (lots of it)
  • Phone charger
  • Tampons
  • Bottles of water

#4… Not hiring a videographer

I contemplated this one for a while, and I’m soooo glad that I hired a videographer.

Think of all the amazing moments that you can capture on video…

The happy tears you and your best friend share while getting ready. The tears your mom sheds while helping you into your dress. Your first look, or you walking down the aisle and the look on your partners face when they see you. All of the speeches. Your first dance and all of the other special dances.

Many couples watch their wedding video together on their anniversaries as a tradition.

(Tip: Ask your videographer if they supply both an edited highlight video of the entire day and also the raw footage with speeches etc.)

#5… Not spending some alone time with your partner

Unless you and your partner do a first look, you most likely won’t get much alone time, if any.

Many brides recommend putting aside 10-20 minutes after the ceremony, before dinner, or after your first dance to run away with your partner.

You will be so busy all day, having some time to sit and soak it all in with your newly wedded is important.

There are so many guests to talk to, so many things to do and keep on schedule throughout the day… You might realize the end of the night is near and you’ve barely been able to speak with your new husband or wife.

Go hide in a closet somewhere and get some quality 1 on 1 time that you’ll remember forever.

This one is a bonus…

My biggest regret from my wedding isn’t on this list, so I figured I’d quickly share mine – just in case it helps any of you!

Squishing too much into too little time.

From the time that speeches and dinner started until I finished my first dance, I felt like I was constantly being pulled in different directions.

We had many speeches (each groomsman decided to surprise us with lengthy and very un-prepared speeches, when we were only planning on hearing a speech from the best man).

During dinner, my photographer pulled me to do sunset photos outside. This isn’t on her! I understand that sunset photos need to be done at a certain time to get them just right. I just didn’t plan for it being in the middle of dinner.

Once I got back from sunset photos, my DJ was pulling me saying we’re behind schedule and dances need to start…

Basically, I crammed too many things into too little time. I barely got to eat any of my dinner.

The worst part… we purchased cupcakes for all of our guests, and spent a good chunk on a beautiful cake that was meant for the head table and all of our closest family.

Guess what? With all the craziness going on, not a single person, not even myself or my husband had a piece of this cake… not one single piece all night long. It was completely forgotten about.

Thanks for listening to my little vent sesh (lol).

Just remember to plan a schedule with the times that each “event” at your wedding with start and end – but add LOTS of wiggle room in between. Things will run behind schedule.

Categories
love: self-care

Get FLAWLESS Skin

Check out Farmhouse Fresh for my #1 recommended skincare products to give you the best skin of your life.

Are you a bride trying to prep and prime your skin for your big day?

Maybe you’re not a bride… But are you someone who is sick and tired of using expensive skincare products that lack real results?

If you answered yes to either of those questions, this post is exactly where you need to be.

Did you know it typically takes 6-8 weeks to see real results with a new skincare routine? That being said, now is the time to begin a fabulous skincare routine to prep yourself for your big day.

Skincare routines aren’t one size fits all… Everyone has a different skin type: combination, oily, dry, or normal.

Not only are there different skin types, but each person has their own skin concerns as well: acne-prone, aging, wrinkles, dark spots, etc.

I am a skincare fanatic – honestly, skincare psychopath is probably a better term. I am PASSIONATE about my skincare, and I have been since I was a freshman in high school 15 years ago.

The amount of medicated creams, gels, home remedies, and expensive skincare products that I have tried in the past is, quite frankly, ridiculous.

But in that same breath, I have been able to find out what works and what most definitely does not. (Insert sad face emoji… you live and you learn.)

There is one skincare brand that I can honestly say I have loved every product that I’ve tried…

Farmhouse Fresh.

real results

for real people

with real skin concerns.

Aside from that, their products are all natural and organic. You’ve heard the term “farm to table” when eating at a restaurant? What about “farm to face”? If you care what you’re putting in your body, you should also care what you’re putting on your face and absorbing into your skin.

The feel, scent, packaging, and price point of this skincare and bodycare line is incredible. You’ll feel like you’re using the most expensive, luxury products, getting real results, but with spending only a fraction of the price as you would with other “popular” skincare lines.

WAIT, there’s more 🙂

(Yikes, I sound like an infomercial… but seriously I’m just obsessed with these products.)

Each purchase you make from Farmhouse Fresh literally saves abused and neglected animals. :*)

There’s even a way that you can track the product that you purchased to see which animals you helped… Whether it’s a horse that was left starving to death at a sale barn, or abandoned dogs waiting at a euthanasia shelter.

Okay, I could go on and on about the goodness of this company forever, so I’ll try to stop here and instead I’ll rant about the amazing products I’ve incorporated into my skincare routine, the results, and hopefully you’ll give them a chance in your own skincare routine, because I promise you… you’ll be obsessed with them all.

New Groove Hemp – Gel Cleanser

I’ve used all sorts of facial cleansers – but this one takes the cake.

Benefits:

  • Deeply purifies skin
  • Easily removes makeup, dirt, and oil
  • Fights signs of aging and delivers firmer skin
  • Naturally brightens and smooths skin instantly
  • Cannabinoid full spectrum hemp oil
  • 60mg of CBD helps achieve a perfect complexion
  • Leaves you with firm, bright, calm, matte skin

Best for:

All skin types. Especially oily skin, acne-prone skin, or aging skin.

Timescape – 2 Minute Renewing Face Polish Exfoliator

Fans of this product literally call it the 2 Minute Age Eraser.

Benefits:

  • Tiny plant-based fibers create a microdermabrasion effect with spending $300 on a microdermabrasion service
  • Wipes away imperfections and shows real results in only 12 days
  • Super preventative care! The sunflower oil protects skin prevents moisture loss, keeping skin hydrated (but not oily) all day
  • Infused with vitamins and antioxidants that improve the look, feel, and texture of your skin – Giving you an amaaaazing complexion
  • Leaves you with instantly glowing, smooth, healthy, younger-looking skin

Best for:

All skin types. Especially aging skin.

Guac Star – Avocado Mask

I truly recommend alllll of the Farmhouse Fresh face masks… but because I’m such a huge avocado fan, I decided to first recommend the Guac Star mask.

Benefits:

  • Avocado provides key fatty acids and vitamins that are vital to your skins health
  • Protects skin from oxidative stresses like UV lights and pollution
  • Delivers instant COOL hydration (this is a god send if you’re sunburnt)
  • Reduces redness, inflammation, and dryness

Best for:

Dry or dehydrated skin. Sunburned or sensitive skin. Acne-prone skin.

Wine Down – Overnight Recovery Serum

This serum is the best of the best! I haven’t met a person who didn’t absolutely LOVE Wine Down.

Benefits:

  • Works while you sleep – Shows results after just 2 HOURS!
  • Clinically tested peptides that totally reduce dark circles under your eyes and dark spots throughout your face
  • Makes pores VISABILY smaller – it’s amazing
  • Intensely hydrates and fills in any fine lines
  • Best seller for complete skin repair
  • Fans say they wear way less makeup now all because of this product
  • Wake up with silky, smooth, bright, happy skin

Best for:

Literally every skin type – Everyone should have this product in their skincare routine.

Vitamin Berry – Facial Tonic Mist

Instantly flawless complexion in a bottle.

Benefits:

  • Alcohol-free. How many other toners can say that?
  • Natural filter effect makes pores disappear
  • With pristine rose water for a light, long-term exfoliation
  • Boosts moisture with vital nourishment from aronia berries – a miracle fruit with one of the highest antioxidant contents every recorded
  • Visibly reduces the look of fine lines
  • Spritz in the morning or throughout the day for instant refreshment and ultra-minimized pores

Best for:

All skin types

Watermelonaid – Silky Gelee Serum

Delivers the most transformative results yet with watermelon extract, full spectrum hemp oil, and top performing all natural active ingredients.

Benefits:

  • Contains hyaluronic acid to visually fill fine lines and wrinkles after the FIRST use
  • Incredible smoothing effect
  • 170mg of calming, complexion perfecting CBD
  • Fixes skins uneven texture and uneven tone

Best for:

All skin types. Especially aging skin or for someone looking to prevent aging skin.

Each of these products can be used together! I hope you trust my reviews and try these out for yourself!

Once you get your order, check the bottom of your product bottle for a batch number. Type the number into the Farmhouse Fresh website, and it’ll let you know which animals you helped save with your purchase.

Stay glowing, lovely!

Categories
love: weddings

DIY: Bridesmaid Proposal Boxes

Getting engaged and beginning to plan your wedding is so exciting. One of the first things you might do is consider who will be in your bridal party… Whether it’s your sisters, best friends, childhood friends, cousins, or co-workers, asking someone to be your bridesmaid is so special! Many brides choose to amp up the fun a bit by proposing to their bridesmaids with a gift or a ‘proposal box’. This can be such a fun way to get your ladies involved and let them know how much it means to you to have them standing by your side on what will be one of the biggest days of your life.

Okay, so what even is a bridesmaid proposal box??

Typically, a bridesmaid proposal box is filled with a variety of small health, beauty, and lifestyle items. These items can be the same for each bridesmaid, or you could customize based on what each bridesmaid might like. You can get super creative or stay as basic as you’d like, and you still will end up with an amazing bridesmaid proposal box no matter what. The options are endless!

Putting it all together

Of course, you can use any type of box that you prefer, but I definitely recommend these simple boxes from Amazon. I used these same boxes when I proposed to my bridesmaids, and they worked wonderfully! Good price, sooo easy to put together, and the perfect size. You can spruce up the outside of the box by tying a ribbon or some twine around it. Adding a little filler to the bottom of the box is a nice touch; you can find this at the dollar store! Once you have your box ready, it’s time to figure out what you want to put in it…

Fill that box, girl

Like I said, you can fill your proposal boxes with whatever you’d like, but here are some fun items I chose to add to my boxes and some other cute suggestions that are worth checking out to fill up your box!

  • Personalized scrunchies or hair ties
  • Face masks
  • Nail polish (maybe your wedding color?)
  • Jewelry to wear at the wedding
    I got my girls personalized bracelets from Accent Culture and they were SO cute. Each bracelet had their initial on it, and they were all a rose gold color (which looked great with their dresses at the wedding).
  • Mini bottle of champagne or wine
  • Personalized wine glass or champagne flute
  • Scented candle
  • Bath bomb
  • Their favorite candy
  • Picture of the two of you

Don’t forget the card

Adding a cute card or note front and center in the box is important! Your girls are probably wondering why you’re giving them this adorable box with gifts inside; have a card situated on top of the gifts asking them to be your bridesmaid. Check out these cute cards on Amazon:

Now you’re ready to meet up with your best gals and ask them to be a party of your big day. Be prepared for some tears!

Categories
love: weddings

What To Wear To A Wedding

woman standing in front of door
Photo by Godisable Jacob on Pexels.com

Did you know that “what to wear to a wedding” is the most commonly searched wedding-related topic on google?

If you’re anything like me, you’ll stand in front of your closet for ever, staring at your clothes and saying, “I have nothing to wear”. Then you’ll search multiple boutiques and online stores trying to find the perfect outfit.

You’ll order 5 dresses, return 4, and still not be certain about the 1 dress that you kept… But it really doesn’t have to be that stressful!

Check out LYIMI’s Pinterest for inspiration on adorable wedding guest attire and where to find them.

Ask about the dress code

Weddings are all so different. Some might have strict dress codes and others might not have even put a minute into considering asking guests to abide by a dress code.

It’s necessary to check in with the bride-to-be on what the dress code for the wedding will be.

Many brides will list the dress code right on the save the date or the invitation; but still, understanding the dress code language can be tricky to decipher.

Black-Tie

This is the most formal wedding dress code that you will see.
Men: Tuxedo (black tie, black vest, and black leather shoes are also recommended.
Women: Formal floor-length dress or gown. Another option is a formal jumpsuit that covers your ankles.

Cocktail

Cocktail attire is usually the most popular dress code at a wedding.
Men: A Tuxedo is not required, but men must still wear a suit and tie.
Women: Rather than a floor-length gown, women should wear a midi dress or a knee-length dress. Think classy but still comfortable.

Semi-Formal / Dress Casual

In this dress code, take the venue, the time of day, and the season into account to help you decide on what to wear. Light colors and fabrics for a daytime wedding; more formal, darker colors for an evening event.
Men: Slacks and a dress shirt (wearing a tie is optional).
Women: A dressy skirt and top, a pretty dress, or a classy pantsuit. Floor-length gowns are inappropriate when it comes to this dress code.

Casual

Casual attire weddings are usually much more laid back. That being said, jeans, baseball caps, shorts, and tank tops are still inappropriate unless otherwise announced.
Men: Khakis or dress pants and a collared shirt. Absolutely no tennis shoes or t-shirts.
Women: Sundresses! This is your opportunity to wear an adorable sundress – whether the wedding is outdoors or indoors. Or you could opt for nice pants and a cute top! Dressy sandals or wedges are perfect.

What should I NOT wear…?

The first and most obvious: Absolutely do NOT wear a white dress. It’s a common rule of thumb that you should just never wear white to a wedding unless the couple requests all-white attire.

No matter the dress code, you should also never wear jeans or sneakers to a wedding as a guest.

Lastly, try not to match the bridal party! You don’t want to be wearing a dress that is the exact shade of the bridesmaid dresses…. awkward.

Where to shop

The most fun part; shopping!

I love supporting small businesses, so if there is a local boutique near you, I’d recommend checking them out first! Many local boutiques offer super unique and adorable pieces that just might be perfect for wedding guest attire.

If you’re an online shopping queen like myself, check out Lulus.com! They usually have an entire section specifically for wedding guest attire. Their outfits are so pretty, great material, and usually offer free returns (so there’s no hurt in trying). Take a peek at the reviews before ordering; they’re usually super helpful.

More of an in-person shopper? Try Express! Express has men’s and women’s clothing for all types of dress codes. They have a huge selection of dressy-casual and classy outfits. You’re sure to find something you love.

Categories
love: weddings

The Ultimate Nashville Bachelorette Party

Before we dive right into all of the goodness that is Nashville…

Planning a wedding doesn’t only consist of planning for the actual wedding; lots of planning goes into hosting the ultimate bachelorette party. Most brides look forward to a weekend of crazy fun with their closest gals – dancing and partying the night away for one last hoo-rah before saying “I do”.

Majority of bachelorette parties are hosted by the maid of honor and the bridesmaids; however, some are thrown by the bride! If you’re a bride wanting to throw yourself a bachelorette party, that is a-o-k, but I recommend kindly suggesting your maid of honor and bridesmaids to host the party for you… after all, it is a party for you.

That being said, I’m writing this post and aiming it towards the sisters and best friends of the bride, tips and tricks on how to host the ultimate bachelorette party for the bride to be.

Bachelorette parties come in all different themes, sizes, and locations. It’s crucial to gather a little information from your bride before you start planning so you know what she wants and what’s totally off limits. This is when you can determine if the bride wants a low-key day of shopping and brunch, a cozy weekend at the cabin, or a wild night out complete with barhopping, pole-dancing, and bull-riding.

Find out who your bride wants at the party and get any contact information you might need for the rest of the bridesmaids and all the guests that you should be inviting.

Speaking of the guest list, consider the size of the list… Aim for at least 4 ladies, but no more than 15. Taking an uber, finding an Airbnb, and making dinner reservations will start getting really difficult if you have more than 15 ladies to include. Plus, imagine keeping track of 15 women on a wild night out downtown! Yikes, lol.

Wooo! You got some information from the bride. She wants a fun-filled party weekend with her bridesmaids but requested to go somewhere different rather than hit up the usual bars in her hometown. If it’s within everyone’s budget, go to Nashville!

I’m telling you; Nashville is the bachelorette capital of the world. Don’t believe me? Google it and you’ll be told the same exact thing. Nashville is a beautiful and fun city with so much to see and do, making it the ultimate destination for a bachelorette party with your favorite girls.

Keep reading and you’ll learn some of the best places to stay, best spots to eat, and the best bars to hit up on Broadway.

Choosing Your Bachelorette House in Nashville

When looking for the perfect place to call home for the weekend, check out Airbnb or Vrbo. Use the filters to narrow down your search and consider things like: how many beds, how many bathrooms, how close to downtown, etc.

Nashville’s Original Bachelorette House

Sleeps up to 12 guests comfortably
Only 1.4 miles from downtown Nashville
3 bathrooms to get ready in
Truly not just a place to stay, but an experience…

Food Food Food!

There are so many cool places to try in such little time! Here are some of the most unique places that are definitely worth checking out.

White Limozeen

This place boasts as a one-of-a-kind, indoor-outdoor restaurant and bar, with a beautiful rooftop pool. That being said, White Limozeen can be really hard to get into. Reservations are a must, and you have to book your reservation 2 weeks ahead of time. (Literally 2 weeks ahead, they only book out 2 weeks in advance… and those spots fill up fast.)

Hampton Social

A first-floor “Rose All Day” lounge, second-floor dining, and a new rooftop terrace make the Hampton Social a stunning spot for your lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch. Don’t forget to take a moment for some totally Instagram-worthy pics in front of their signature signs.

Pinewood Social

Whether you’re just wanting to chill out and eat delicious food, do a little bowling, or partake in some fun outdoor games, Pinewood Social is a sure spot to have a blast.

Hittin’ Up Broadway

If it’s a Friday or Saturday night, you’re likely to wait in line at the most popular bars on Broadway. But seriously, all of these bars are so. much. fun. Skip the long lines and check out the place next door! Though they’re all great, here are some of the bars that I loved checking out during my bachelorette party in Nashville.

  • Tootsies
  • Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row
  • Tin Roof
  • Jason Aldean’s Rooftop Bar
  • Honky Tonk Central
  • The Stage on Broadway
  • Kid Rock’s Bar
Categories
love: weddings

Setting Your Budget

As much as we might not like to think about it, setting a budget for your wedding is one of the first steps you need to complete before really getting into the planning process.

Sure, you can find a beautiful venue, the perfect dress, and a DJ that you absolutely love… but what happens if you don’t consider your budget first?

Wedding planning can be stressful enough already, you don’t want to realize months into planning that you can’t afford it all and you need to look for more budget-friendly options.

WHAT AN AVERAGE WEDDING BUDGET LOOKS LIKE…

50 Percent: Venue + Catering

In most cases, at least half of your budget will go towards your venue and catering expenses and your venue.

Renting your venue can be pretty spendy; talk to your venue about pricing for the different seasons of the year, and the pricing for weddings on a Friday or Sunday versus a Saturday wedding.

Depending on the number of guests you’re planning to have at your wedding, catering is usually the highest ticket item.

Some couples decide to do a buffet rather than a plated dinner as it might be a little less expensive.

It’s also common (but not necessary) for couples to provide appetizers, dessert, a late-night snack, and sometimes beverages throughout the night.

15 Percent: Photography + Videography

Many brides and grooms don’t realize how expensive photography and videography for their wedding day can be. Do your research on different professionals in your area.

I booked a high schooler for my wedding videography; his pricing was very low compared to others I had found because he was so young and just getting started. However, he had been doing wedding videography for a few years already and other types of videography for a long time; it was his passion. I watched some videos from his portfolio, and they were amazing! I saved over $1,000 by taking a chance with a new up-and-coming videographer.

That being said, don’t totally skimp out on your wedding photographer and videography. After all, these are the photos and videos that you will look back on for years to come to cherish the best day of your life.

12 Percent: Bride + Groom Attire

Make sure you set aside at least 12% of your budget for all things wedding attire.

This will include your dress, tuxedo, shoes, jewelry, veil and tie. A dress and suit for your rehearsal dinner, bridal showers, and bachelorette/bachelor parties might also be needed.

You can also add any grooming services you might be interested in such as hair and makeup, manicure, pedicure and waxing.

10 Percent: Decor

When couples think of the decor needed for their wedding, some might say “centerpieces… what else?”

There are actually many other items that tie into the decor category. Decor can include flower arrangements, tablecloths, seat covers, event lighting, signage and more.

8 Percent: Music + Entertainment

Whether you’re interested in a DJ or a live band, the entertainment and your wedding is super important!

In my opinion, interactive DJ’s are fantastic at keeping guests engaged and having fun. Depending on your venue, you might also need to rent a dance floor.

5 Percent: Miscellaneous Spending

Okay… this can include so many things, but mostly the low-ticket items.

For items in this category, include your wedding bands, transportation (if necessary), stationary for your save the dates and invitations, and an officiant.

Tip: Save $400+ by getting a close friend or family member ordained (usually free) to officiate your ceremony for you.

BEFORE SETTING YOUR BUDGET, ASK YOURSELF THESE IMPORANT QUESTIONS….

Questions to Consider When Setting Your Budget

Who (if anyone) is helping you pay for the wedding, and much are they offering to contribute?

How many guests MUST be in attendance at your wedding?

What is most important to you?

What are you willing to splurge on?

What can you do without?

What is your budget?

How will you keep track of your budget?

AVOID THESE BUDGETING MISTAKES…

Oops! Top Budget Mistakes

Not being realistic

Not having a discussion with each person contributing to your wedding and determining who is paying for what

Not keeping track of your spending throughout the planning process

Not making decisions on what must be part of your wedding day versus what you could go without having