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Why You Should Hire A Wedding Planner

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Why You Should Hire A Wedding Planner

The cost of a wedding planner can be priceless if you arrive at your big day refreshed, excited and rested! There are many reasons why you might want to hire a wedding planner. The price of wedding planners vary, but you can find one on any budget. It just depends on what you want your planner to do and how involved you want them. Here is why you should hire a wedding planner:

A wedding planner can often save you expenses and are well worth the investment.

A good wedding planner will keep your budget in mind and do the legwork cost breakdowns. They are great at keeping you within your budget by coordinating your guest list with venues you can afford.
In addition to saving you money, a wedding planner will save you time. You’re probably both working full time to afford this amazing wedding. A planner will be the go-between to venues, bands, caterers and flower shops. They will leave the decisions up to you, but once you make a choice, the wedding planner will put it into action, which frees you up to do the things you need.

A wedding planner can be a great idea if you’re very detail oriented.

A planner pays attention to every little detail so you don’t need to. They will most likely have contacts in the industry. That will save time and energy if they know off the bat who will work within your budget. The wedding planner will keep your day organized as well, down to when it’s time to walk the aisle and wrestling your belligerent uncle in line. You don’t need to stress about forgetting cake toppers or favors when you’re planner is already on it.

They lend fresh eyes and ears to your dream wedding.

We all have a vision of our wedding day and a planner can help make it unique. They have the connections and knowledge of trends to help you plan a wedding just for you. We think a wedding planner is well worth the expense because you only get one day and why not make it as fabulous as possible? You don’t need it ruined because you forgot to schedule your wedding makeup or hair!



Did you use a wedding planner? Who did you use? Why did you love working with them? We would love to feature your wedding. E-mail credited vendors and photos to hello@chicagoweddingblog.com . For more wedding planning tips & advice check out more Chicago Wedding Blog posts below!

Wedding Decor Colors

How To: Choose Your Wedding Color Scheme

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How To: Choose Your Wedding Color Scheme

Often couples choose a trending color for their wedding color scheme. When wedding planning, there are no wrong choices. However, we do have some suggestions to choose your wedding colors in a different way. Trending colors come and go, but if you choose a color scheme that is so ‘you’, it’ll be timeless & unique. Here are five steps to choose a color scheme that is ‘you’!

First, Narrow Down Your Top Colors And Use A Layout App To Put Colors Together.

Start looking at color options. Then narrow down some of your favorites. Afterward, ensure all colors and textures knit together cohesively by using a layout app. You want to ensure the flowers, ties, suits, dresses, & shoes coordinate.

Second, Instead Of A Trending Color, Think Of Colors That Are ‘You’.

Next, from all those options think about which options are very ‘you’ and nix the excess options. We all can easily tell the year most weddings were by the color of wedding they chose. Navy, blush, burgundy, & gray/blue are all beautiful trending colors that have been widely used. That being said, if you love to wear black every day, black can be a great color for your bridesmaids. You do not have to choose a trending color. If you have a favorite color, say green, that is a color choice you know you’ll love for years to come. Choose colors that can complement each other and reflect your personal style.

Third, Check With Bridesmaids & Groomsmen Attire Designers To Ensure Your Colors Are Possible.

This is often a step brides/grooms forget. Not every designer has fabric in every shade of color you can imagine. Some colors are rotated in and out by year. So before you announce your color scheme; ensure it’s easily accessible to your bridal party. It’s not worth going on a wild goose chase for a color that doesn’t exist. That being said, there are hundreds of color options. You are sure to find at least one of your favorites from step two that you love.

Fourth, Gather Your Decor Ideas.

Now that you’ve narrowed down your colors, choosing coordinating decor is your next job.  When choosing decor you can use one of the coordinating colors you may have eliminated to be a pop of color, contrasting with your bridal party color. Looking at your wedding decor options will also help you solidify your overall color scheme as you keep in mind your venue and wedding flowers.

Fifth, Put It All Together.

You’ve chosen your ‘you’ color, found your bridal party’s attire, and put together your decor ideas and pops of color! Now it’s time to put it all together. At this point, it helps to print everything out so you can see it on paper. You can cut out pictures from magazines, or just print out the final version of the layout we discussed. Then you can present your scheme to your vendors so they can help you bring your ‘you’ wedding color scheme vision to life!



For more wedding planning tips and inspiration, check out more Chicago Wedding Blog posts below! Happy Planning!

Presentation Flowers

Wedding Flower Styles

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Wedding Flower Styles

Wedding flowers are one of the most important visual elements of your wedding. Consequently, it’s important to look determine your floral style. Once you determine your wedding flower style you can easily play with other colors and textures. To help you with this here are wedding flower styles to inspire you.

Bohemian Organic Flower Styles

This flower style has been popular for some time now. Different than the clean, classic style these looser bouquets have asymmetrical shapes and textures incorporated. One aspect of this style is flowing greenery, stalk, and cascading wildflowers. Some examples of bohemian, or organically shaped, bouquets are cascade or hand tied bouquets. If you like bigger bouquets with organic shape this is your wedding flower style.

Classic Circular Wedding Bouquet

This style is a great idea for those who like a clean symmetrical look. Typical classic nosegay or biedermeier bouquets look tighter than the bohemian style. Because of this, they’re usually rounder and incorporate less cascade elements. If you like a look that is smaller and less dramatic for your bouquet, look into classic, circular bouquets. This style is perfect for a classic wedding.

Angled And Horizontal Wedding Bouquets

If you don’t like the vertical look of flowers, a presentation style bouquet may be the perfect choice for you. Think of the bouquet given to beauty pageant queens. This shape is one with which they cradle in their arms. Typically longer stemmed flower are better for this choice. If you like that look, search into a presentation bouquet option.

Unique, Fresh Vintage Flower Styles

Some vintage shapes are slowly making a comeback. One idea we’ve seen used as decoration and as a bouquet is a hoop wedding bouquet. These flowers are attached to a metallic or plastic hoop. This style is perfect for you if you like to be one of a kind! Another circular shape option is the Pomander bouquet. This type of bouquet is a ball shape. This is attached to a ribbon or loop from which it is carried. If you like to be unique with a vintage flair, these flower styles are perfect for you.



For more wedding planning inspiration, tips, & ideas take a look at more blog posts below! We know there are so many places to look for wedding planning inspiration. Thank you for reading Chicago Wedding Blog. Happy Planning!

Micro Wedding Decor

Micro Weddings

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Micro Weddings

For the couple who are introverts at heart and want a small wedding we are loving the micro wedding trend! It’s as the name implies – only your nearest and dearest are invited to your big day and that makes it a great intimate gathering without all the decision fatigue. Planning a huge wedding is an event in itself and some couples just don’t have the time or will power to get through that. The answer is a micro wedding!

A micro wedding is not only less stress for you, but also nice if you’re on a tight budget.

The average cost of a wedding since 2017 is around $34,000. That’s money you could definitely be spending on your future together not just one day! The micro wedding is not an elopement. It has all the traditions of cake, dancing, wedding ceremony, flowers and speeches. The time allotted isn’t micro, just the budget and size of your wedding party.

The size of your micro wedding can range from 5 guests to 50.

Any more than that and the cost and constraints go up. Of course, having a small wedding means you get to lavish your closest friends and family like royalty. Typically the cost per plate goes up as much as $150 per person, but that’s still within a smaller budget since you’re only inviting a few people. Think Champagne and cocktails that you can customize, party favors that are more personal to the wedding guests, and getting to talk to everyone that comes. You don’t have to have wedding planning stress about making rounds in a huge venue, but instead will get to speak with your loved ones on a personal level for more than five minutes.

Since the size of your guest list is smaller you can consider smaller venues as well!

For micro weddings your venue selection isn’t as limited. You can find unique spaces like libraries or museums that only accommodate a tiny group of people. The venue for your micro wedding can enhance the vibe you’re going for immensely. Even if it’s a destination micro wedding, you can use the setting to decorate for you like a gorgeous sunset, mountain top or aquarium. A lot of venues will have special “mirco wedding” packages available as well!

Sustainable Wedding Decor

A Sustainable Wedding

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A Sustainable Wedding

More and more couples are becoming aware of how their big celebration will impact the earth. This year we will see an in increase in sustainable weddings. While it’s perfectly alright to want a big celebration; it’s also great to keep in mind everything that goes into it. From the caterers to florists, there a lot of waste that goes on with weddings. We have a list of things to consider if you’re going to have a sustainable wedding.

Choose your wedding venue wisely.

A destination wedding means a lot more carbon footprint from airplanes or car rides. Think about who you want to invite and perhaps pick a location that’s not too far for everyone to reduce the amount of travel involved. We’re all about getting married wherever you want, but if you’re thinking of the sustainability, keep travel costs/emissions in mind.

Ask your venues what their processes are for waste.

You have every right to ask potential venues about their green initiatives. How do they dispose of waste? Where do you source your food – is it local? What is your plastic policy? What kind of cleaning products do you use?

Find an eco-friendly caterer.

In this day it shouldn’t be too hard to find a caterer or venue that will be able to create a “green” menu. Ideally they will source local, organic produce and ethically produced ingredients. A vegan or vegetarian menu would also the environmental impact but we’re realistic and if that’s too much perhaps try at least half the menu be vegetarian. Getting your alcohol from local distilleries is also a great way to reduce your carbon footprint.

Limit stationary.

You can completely side-step this by going digital and only do email wedding invites, but we love just one statement wedding announcement piece. You can ask that it be printed on recycled paper. It’s also worth trying to get the printer to add extra signage like seating arrangements and directions/schedule to save paper.

No matter how you celebrate your big day it’s possible to have a sustainable wedding! You will not only feel great surrounded by your closest friends and family, but also love knowing you’re helping sustain the environment for future generations.

Spring Blue Table Inspiration

Blue Spring Wedding Inspiration

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Blue Spring Wedding Inspiration

One way to get out of the winter wedding planning blues is to look forward to spring. You have heard of the proverbial something blue, but this blue spring wedding inspiration goes further. Here is some unique blue spring wedding inspiration that will get you spring wedding ready!

Blue Marbled Trends

You can incorporate this design to save the dates, invitations, wedding cake, or flowers. A marbled design brings together multiple hues of blue. For the more indecisive couples, you don’t have to choose choose one shade of blue if you go with this marbled trend!

Fifty Shades Of Gray/Blue

A pretty way to soften a blue color scheme is to add grays, whites, and different shades of blue. We recommend you choose a few areas to add strong color. Then, you can balance the more pungent colors with soft grays and whites. The easiest way to do this is with the bridal party or flowers. Men can wear any blue, gray, or black color to coordinate.

Light Blue Spring Bridesmaids Dresses

One trend we love for 2020/2021 spring weddings is a return to light blue bridesmaids dresses. A soft blue says spring without being too overdone. Your bridesmaids love that many shades of light blue are flattering on all skin tones. We all look forward to lighter hues of spring clothes after a long midwest winter. Don’t you?

Blue Spring Wedding Decor

We love dramatic tablescapes with mixed textures and shapes. This past year hanging canopies of glass baubles and flowers have been popular. You can use different shades of blue fabric as a table runner. There are plenty of light blue glass ornaments that can add a whimsical touch to your wedding. Another trend for this year is velvet. You could tie blue velvet ribbon to a lantern, or centerpiece. Keep in mind it is important your guests can see each other to speak across the table. Avoid going too big or tall with centerpieces. Sometimes the simpler the better.

Are you having a blue spring wedding? We would love to share your photos! If you would like to share, please e-mail us (at hello@chicagoweddingblog.com) your photos with vendors credited. In the meantime, share this post with your engaged friends to inspire them! Happy wedding planning!

Wedding Dress With Pockets

2020 Wedding Dress Trends

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Before you begin your wedding dress shopping process for your 2020 wedding, take a look at the 2020 wedding dress trends for the year. Bring photos with you to make your shopping easier. These trends will give you a vision to inspire your wedding day attire. Here are five 2020 wedding dress trends to look for as you go shopping.

Trend #1- Bows, Bows, & More Bows

Bows are not just for little girls anymore! They are back for bridal, and in a big way. These bridal bows come large or small and in many fabrics too! Bows can be the straps on a gown, on the back of the gown, or on the front. Either way, you cannot choose wrong with a bow gown.

Trend #2- Plunging Necklines

Plunging necklines do not need to make grandma nervous anymore! This new trend is done in a tasteful way. It doesn’t make you nervous about slipping out anymore either! The support and beauty of the designs are purposefully placed to be supportive, yet sexy.

Trend #3- Pockets

We think this trend should never go away and should be in all outfits ever! Who doesn’t love pockets? Women’s clothing designers, take note: women need pockets! Pockets in a wedding dress are perfect for tissues & mints to ensure you’re wedding day ready!

Trend #4- Detachable Trains & Overskirts

We love a good bustle! But, if you are not a fan of taking up some of your wedding day timeline to have your bridesmaids or loved ones bustling your gown, never fear! This year’s trend of a detachable train or overskirt is exactly what you need. Rock your beautiful flowing train for pictures, then take it off for your night of dancing at your reception.

Trend #5- Straight Across Necklines

This classic is a classic for a reason! This neckline is timeless, feminine, and flattering especially for taller brides. You cannot choose wrong with this timeless option. If you want to embrace some elegant, Audrey Hepburn vibes, here’s how you do it!

Did you use these trends to find your 2020 wedding dress? We want to hear from you! Comment below, or send your 2020 wedding photos (with vendor credits) to hello@chicagoweddingblog.com! We’d love to share your story. For more wedding planning tips and tricks, check out the suggested blog posts below! Happy wedding planning!

Pearl Wedding Gown

Wedding Year Of Pearls

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Wedding Year Of Pearls

2019/2020 is the wedding year of the pearl. Bridal fashion is always a combination of new and unique with classic and timeless. Pearls fit into that perfectly! From gowns to shoes, pearls are a classic back on trend. Because the pearl trend is back and better than ever, we will show you our favorite pearl ensembles.

Gowns

2019/2020 wedding dresses have a range of pearl options. Some wedding gowns have pearls sewn onto the dresses. Other wedding gowns have accessories, such as a wrap or cape, to add pearls to your wedding attire. The gown below, by Allison Webb, has both! How amazing is that?

Veils

Veils add classic drama to your wedding attire. There are many ways to incorporate pearl details to your veil. One option is to have a pearl embroidered edge to the veil. Pearls on the edge of a veil gives fun movement to your look. If you choose a pearl speckled veil, pearls will spread throughout the veil. Are you a fan of polka dots? If polka dots are your thing, you will like speckled veils. Nomatter which pearl veil you choose, it will match your wedding dress.

Hair Accessories

The easiest way to incorporate pearls into your wedding day is your hair accessories. There are so many options for hair accessories. If you want a small hair accessory, they make pearl embossed bobby pins. If you prefer to have a slightly larger accessory, look for pearl hair barrettes. Similar in size to hair barrettes, you could use a hair vine or comb. These accessories work with any hairstyle.

Shoes

Your wedding shoes are a unique way to add pearls to your wedding. Whether you’d like heels or flats, there are many pearl options. If you like a boho-chic look, a cute pair of pearl sandals are just for you. But, never fear, if you love the formality of heels there are plenty of styles for you too. Many brides are erring on the comfy side of shoes for their wedding day. Because of this, many designers make pearl embossed sneakers!

Did you embrace the pearl trend at your 2019 wedding?! Are you planning to incorporate them into your 2020 wedding?! Send us your photos with vendors credited and we’d love to feature your wedding. We hope these tips and trends help you prepare for your wedding. For more wedding planning advice check out the blog posts below! Happy Planning!

Wedding Trends 2017

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Welcome to 2017 brides to be!

With a new year come new trends – or possibly repeats of old trends. Either way let’s take a look at some of the awesome wedding trends 2017. One of the first is color. This year color pops seem to be the way to go versus an all white wedding. Take a look at the Knot for some ideas on color combinations! Depending on the time of year you can custom create colors that will wow your guests.

 

 

A second wedding trend 2017 we’re seeing is elaborate entrances! Go wild with over the top decor and impress guests on their way to the reception. You can organize a flash mob with your wedding party, arrive in a helicopter or boat, arrive in a shower of rose petals or stage a grand entrance in your venue! The possibilities are endless. You can even think about using unique entertainment at your reception like a fire starters!

 

And finally for wedding trends 2017 we are seeing a rise in destination weddings! Try getting away from your hometown and go someplace exotic like California, Hawaii, Alaska or anywhere that’s out of the norm. You can also try off the beaten path places like Italy or Iceland. Depending on how many guests are important to you to attend, a destination wedding can be fun for everyone and let all your guests enjoy a mini vacation as well!

Bride On A Budget

Bride On A Budget

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Bride or not, finding chic outfit choices at amazing prices is ALWAYS an appealing headline. Here are our picks for great resources when it comes to summer dressing for the Guest and Bride that will make you and your wedding budget very, very happy for years ( or seasons) to come.

 

Bride On A Budget

Photo Credit: Old Navy

Old Navy: If you are a big blog reader, you know that pairing affordable items from Old Navy with your closet staples is a no-brainer especially for summer. And when they rolled out their summer dress collection full of crisp whites perfect for pre-wedding events, we just about fell over. Whether you are packing maxi dresses for your Honeymoon or simple white minis, they have you covered. Plus, their online summer sales are no joke. Most days of the week you can checkout with a code for 35% off your entire order!

Bride On A Budget

Photo Credit: The Loft

Loft: Best known for their smart wear-to-work pieces, Loft is upping their game for incredibly priced summer wear. Thanks in part to their partnership with the ultra chi line, Lou& Grey, their fun skirts, jumpsuits, and crazy chic beachwear will take your from rehearsal to sipping cocktails oceanside for your Honeymoon.

 

Bride On A Budget

Photo Credit: Chicwish

Chicwish: A newbie, but a goodie. Chicwish has also become a major name in blogger favorites. Mostly because of their CRAZY good prices and trendy pieces. Full midi skirts in fun florals, and bright prints for wedding guests, they have pretty much every aspect covered. For lace detail that would cost you hundreds at Neiman Marcus, Chicwish lets you explore trends that are within budget and gives you options for all of your upcoming events. Join their email list and get 25% off your order too!