First article;

The image of a beautiful bride walking down the aisle in a traditional white dress may be the ultimate dream of many girls, but tradition is apparently not as trendy as it used to be.

According to the Daily Mail, 27 percent of 18- to 24-year-olds would not get married in traditional white. In a recent study conducted by 3M, it was discovered that a quarter of young brides are now opting to wear red, pink or blue dresses instead of the traditional white.

Of the findings, nearly 10 percent of girls would choose red, a color associated with love, while 5 percent would choose pink and 4 percent would walk down the aisle in blue.

But that trend seems to apply to the younger generation. Of those surveyed who were 35-44, 85 percent would still choose to don a white dress.

“We all know what color tones we are drawn to and those we aren’t; it’s just a matter of trusting our intuition,” said Karen Haller of 3M. “Men will often choose their team’s color, as it gives them a sense of belonging. As human beings, we have an innate need to belong to a tribe. In essence, they are creating an emotional connection through color.”

Second article covers the hot new styles;

Here are the hot new wedding dress trends for 2013.
Beaded wedding dresses with serious Great Gatsby-style glam, utterly romantic cap sleeves and so much more. See what’s hot for fall 2013 and spring 2014!

Beaded Column Dresses
We’re totally obsessed with this Great Gatsby glam style. Designers Reem Acra, Maggie Sottero, Carolina Herrera, Theia and Kenneth Pool, to name a few, featured pretty dress designs with allover beading. This look by Monique Lhuillier is sophisticated yet flirty and just begs for a cocktail style wedding with a champagne tower and coupe glasses.

Cap Sleeves
Utterly romantic and soft, cap sleeves made a big appearance on the runways this season. Christos, Maggie Sottero, Monique Lhuillier, Temperley Bridal and Kenneth Pool, featured here, all included pretty sleeve styles in their collections.

Coverlets
Coverage with serious style hit the runways this season. Carolina Herrera, Vera Wang, Reem Acra and Ines Di Santo, featured here, all included pretty cover-ups in their collections.

Cowl Backs
Turn heads with an open back style. This gown by Maggie Sottero is sexy without showing too much skin. Also check out Temperley Bridal, Ines Di Santo, Pronovias, Theia, Carolina Herrera, and Reem Acra’s latest lines.

Glitter Tulle
The classic wedding gown fabric gets an upgrade with added shimmer and sparkle. Ines Di Santo, Pronovias, Reem Acra and Carolina Herrera, featured here, all showcased gowns with sparkly tulle this season.

Metallic Lace
Gold and silver metallic are hot for wedding reception décor and now bridal fashion. Designers like Reem Acra, featured here, are adding hits of metallic to lacey wedding dresses. Look through Carolina Herrera, Pronovias, Monique Lhullier and Kelly Faetanini’s latest lines for ideas.

Pearls
Designers are using this classic gem on wedding dresses for a look that’s unexpected yet timeless. Reem Acra, Carolina Herrera and Theia, featured here, all designed dresses this season with pretty pearls, large and small.

Sheer Straps
Barely there fabric makes for an incredibly sexy strap detail. Reem Acra, Marchesa, Pronovias, Christos and Amsale, featured here, are just a few of the designers who showcased the trend this season.

Textured Fabrics
Think layers, rosettes and lots of pretty embroidery. Monique Lhuillier, Ines Di Santo, Theia, Carolina Herrera and Vera Wang, featured here, all layered it on in their lines this season

Vine-Like Details
Ball gowns with nature-inspired beading and embroidery were all over the bridal fashion runways. Marchesa, Pronovias and Rivini, featured here, all showed off some serious stunners.

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2013 is putting on the glitz! “It’s a move towards sophistication,” says Alyssa Brown of Alison Events in San Francisco, the planners behind Seth Rogen’s recent nuptials. “For example, we’re planning an outdoor event right now, but there’s crystal on the table, and gold silverware and chargers,” Alyssa explains. “And black tie is playing a huge role right now. It’s full-length gowns for everybody!”

Tara Guérard of Soirée in Charleston agrees. She looks for modern ways to interpret the classic feel, like cream suede table linens edged with pink welting. “The welting gives a tailored look and makes the table skirt flow out like a ballgown. And the suede just feels ultra luxurious.”
The palette that pairs with the new formal wedding? Neutral, neutral, neutral. “I see grey and taupe with pops of black,” says Alyssa. Tara predicts that layers of blush will be big.

Photo Credit: Jessie Leake Photography courtesy of Alison Events;
Flowers by Brown Paper Design
Candles always have a major presence at weddings, but this year, look for them in showstopping chandeliers. “I like to incorporate chandeliers into my wedding design, especially in tents,” says Ivy Robinson of Ivy Robinson Weddings and Events in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Photo Credit: Sara Kathleen
An eclectic approach is taking hold, too, combining natural, outdoorsy details with elegant elements. “I’m currently working on a party where we are using grey leather lounge furniture, tree stumps as coffee tables and antler chandeliers over the tables,” says Ivy.
2013 weddings may be ultra-elegant, but they won’t get too serious. A trend Alyssa sees going strong is the playful photo booth. “We’ll either bring in a booth or have the photographer set up a backdrop. One look we like is different patterned fabrics.”
Low-slung couches are still in the picture, but 2013 will see more inventive furniture. “For one wedding, we’re having swings in the lounge area to replace where a typical chair would go,” says Ivy.
The wild-card trend of the year? Camping, says Alyssa. It started with Matthew McConaughey’s star-studded wedding, and now brides are loving the idea of a grown-up summer camp—hence the new term, “glamping.” Imagine ultra-luxe safari-style tents with heat, electricity and high-end linens. If the idea of overnight guests doesn’t work for you, some brides are using the tents as part of the reception. “You can have a tent with books and bourbon,” suggests Alyssa. “Or a kids’ tent.” Flowers
What’s In: The English Garden. With brides still in love with vintage but moving away from what Sayles Livingston of Sayles Livingston Design in Newport, Rhode Island calls the “weedy” informal floral decor of the last few years, they’re craving flowers that feel opulent but still natural. The look currently causing hearts to flutter evokes the feeling of flowers fresh-picked from the garden of a great estate. Alyssa agrees. “For one wedding, we’re using old brass vessels with a gold look, and the flowers are hydrangea, garden roses, and ranunculus. The look is lush arrangements.”
What’s Out: “Little bud vases lined up down the table,” says Alyssa.
What’s In: Peonies. Drumroll for the flower of the year—the peony. Soft, lush, romantic, the peony is the most requested wedding flower for two years running now, according to both Tara and Sayles. But with the bloom available for only two months out of the year, brides need a backup. Sayles recommends the garden rose, which has the same delicate petal feeling but is much more readily available.

Photo Credit: Thayer Allyson Gowdy; courtesy Alison Events
Flowers by Brown Paper Design
What’s Out: Super-tall centerpieces placed in the center of every table. “It’s been overdone,” Sayles says.
What’s In: Garlands. 2013’s brides swoon for garlands—garlands with ribbon, garlands with paper, garlands hung from chandeliers. “We just did a wedding with one long center table and a garland of peonies and hydrangea running the full length of the table. It was 48 feet of full flower,” Sayles says.
What’s Out: The orchid. “The bloom doesn’t have that of-the-moment, freshly picked look,” says Sayles.
What’s In: Cascades. A vintage bouquet silhouette will make a big return, Sayles predicts. Expect to see cascades coming down aisles everywhere this year. The look is long and slender, with lush full flowers such as (no surprise!) peonies, tea roses and a few sweet tendrils of vine.
What’s Out: According to Sayles, bouquets heavy on the greens will be a no-go in 2013.
Invitations
Neon. The runaway fashion look last year was the pop of color, and now you’ll see eye-searing color peeking out on invitations, too. Melinda Morris of Lion in the Sun in Brooklyn, NY predicts more and more neon in 2013. Don’t go full neon, though: The look she recommends is a neutral invite with a hit of hot color, such as a neon orange patterned invitation liner, or a cream invitation with a neon watermelon edge.
3-D. Forget the flat card in an envelope. 2013’s brides are looking to three-dimensional invitations, with pocket-folds, boxes, and embellishments, says Nashville’s Amber Housley, a wedding planner and invitation designer. “A recent bride wrapped her invitations in vintage handkerchiefs and sent them in boxes. It really stands out to the recipient.”
Pattern. We’ve seen them on the backs of invitations, as a border on the RSVP card or as a flash of surprise on the invitation liner—playful patterns are still a major look as we head into 2013, says Amber. She’s predicting chevron, honeycomb and Moroccan patterns, or even a mix of several.

Photo Credit: Wedding Paper Divas
Illustration. In 2013, say it in pictures. This year, the chic way to capture your personal style is with a custom illustration on your invitation, says Melinda. An artist will create an image that’s unique to you—whether it’s a place you loved as a backdrop, a meaningful symbol to anchor your design, or even a sketch of your beloved pup as a sweet surprise on the envelope liner.
Gleam. The invitation look of the year? Foil stamping—glints of metallic gold, silver and bronzes stamped directly on the invitation. Imagine your names shining in silver against an illustration of the Brooklyn Bridge, or calligraphy scrollwork made modern in gold. “It adds a very fun pop without being too glitzy,” says Melinda
Food & Drinks
The 2013 catering trend of the year? The pros tell us it’s all about a return to formality. “A major trend is to do plated dinners now,” says  Elizabeth Creasey of Los Angeles-based Whoa Nelly! Catering, the go-to foodies for Hollywood A-listers. “We’re getting more requests for gold silverware, something more sophisticated.”

Photo Credit: Jenn Bartell for Sam’s Chowdermobile, Half Moon Bay, CA
But what about the food? Fresh and local are two of the most common requests from in-the-know brides, says Beth, who specializes in market-driven menus. “In spring we do vegetable ragus with asparagus and peas, or in the summer great corn, squash and cherry tomato succotash. And local—brides want to know that we’re working with local jam producers and coffee roasters, and to see that written on their menus.”
Move on over, cosmo girls—the martini bar gets a big yawn from Olivier Cheng of New York’s Olivier Cheng Catering and Events. Instead, he loves artisanal cocktails, like the champagne bar he did at a recent wedding. The bar featured oversized bottles of bubbly and all sorts of infusions, from lavender-lemon to candied ginger. “Make a statement with your signature drinks,” Olivier urges.
With a return to gilded-age glitz, Alyssa sees a resurgence of old-school barware and cocktails. Instead of the narrow flute, she likes the vintage look of a champagne saucer. And she prefers mint juleps served the traditional way: in polished silver cups with crushed ice and a fresh sprig of mint.
Wave your flag in 2013—spotlighting your culinary heritage gets a big yes from Beth. “We do a lot of it in the cocktail hour: little banh mi (mini French baguette) sliders for Vietnamese brides or braised brisket sliders for a Jewish wedding.”
The entrée of the year? Pork is having a major moment says Beth, who loves to surprise guests with a main course that veers away from more expected beef offerings. “We braise pork shoulder until it’s really tender, then slice and grill it with black-beans, citrus-pickled onion, and avocado salsa.” Brides are demanding unexpected, fun, and above all, restaurant-quality food.
The liquor of the year? “Tequila,” says Olivier.
Those with a sweet tooth, take heart. According to Beth, dessert bars are here to stay, but now they have a formal twist. “I’m getting requests for dessert bars by color. For a white one, we just did merengues, French macarons, fudge brownies topped with powdered sugar, and lots of desserts with vanilla-bean frosting.”

Photo Credit: Kaitlin Wallace Photography
Wedding Cakes
An oh-so-stylish wedding cake is just one easy recipe away (with a little help from baker extraordinaire Kate Sullivan of New York’s Cake Power).
First step: Pick your silhouette. Tall and slender is the look du jour, with a mix of single and double-height tiers.
Second step: Add a dash of flavor. Red velvet, chocolate and vanilla take the top spots, but 2013 brides will request filling  with mouth-puckering tastes like mango or passionfruit. And still in style? Requesting a different flavor for each layer.
Third step: Find your look. The first cake style that dominates right now is clean and modern with just one amazing pop of embellishment such as a bow, monogram or flower. The other major look takes the opposite tack, using eye-popping color or all-over appliqués. And finally, a traditional idea has come around again: Brides are loving cakes that mimic wedding-dress details like lace.

Photo Credit: Cake Power
The cherry on top: Look to see something unexpected nestled in among the sugar flowers. Kate predicts there will be more and more minisculptures on cakes (think little hummingbirds made out of modeling chocolate).
The Music Playlist
Remember when you’d only hear Motown, ’80s tunes and hits off the pop charts at weddings? That won’t be the case in 2013 says Rob Principe of Scratch Weddings, one of the country’s top DJ services. “It’s the iPod generation now: Brides have 5,000 songs on something the size of their thumb.”
The result? They’re demanding a more customized music experience. “They want electronic dance music, then Bruno Mars, Mumford & Sons, sexy Brazilian house or bossa nova,” Rob says. And don’t be surprised if you see live musicians that play along with the DJ. “At the cocktail hour, you can have a percussionist and the DJ together—like having live music embroider the DJ’s 1,000-song playlist,” Rob explains.

Going Green and DIY
Brides are planning green weddings in greater numbers than ever. Kate Harrison of greenbrideguide.com says the easiest way to go green is with your favors and invitations. Look for recycled, plantable, or tree-free papers, or even sustainably harvested wood-veneers on which to print your invites.

Photo Credit: GreenBrideGuide.com
For favors, Kate is seeing a lot of interest in seeds or organic edibles, and the move to skip packaging and instead put favors directly on each guest’s plate.
Which came first: The DIY movement or the ever-expanding number of blogs devoted to crafty brides in search of the ultimate personal stamp for their celebration? No matter. Between retail resources like Michaels Stores and Save On Crafts and sites like DIYbride.com, it’s never been easier to get crafty. More links: labellebride.com, ruffledblog.com, greenweddingshoes.com, weddingchicks.com and, of course, bridalguide.com.

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A very good time to show off your dental work.

“It’s fine, he does this all the time.”

Mmmm….sensual.

99% sure that’s not a real castle…

They got the bottom of their pants wet, but it’s a small price to pay for true love.

“See what we did there?”

They obviously have a lot in common. Love the cargo capris, by the way.

“I’ll wear my favorite dress and you can wear your favorite shirt, honey!”

Nothing says “I love you” like paying for parking.

All natural.

Good luck.

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Pavilions and Group Use Areas

New Hampshire State Parks are the crown jewels of the state and are the perfect place to have a wedding, reunion, group outing, or any other sort of event. Listed below are the state parks that can accommodate large groups. To make a reservation, please call the number listed.

Please Note: Anyone wanting to plan an event at a State Park should contact that park directly and organize with the park manager to ensure the date and space is available, as well as to discuss pricing. A Special Use Permit will also be required for all events.

Seacoast Region

Seacoast Weddings, Meetings and Events Guide
Seacoast Weddings, Meetings and Events Brochure

Hampton Beach State Park Pavilion
Hampton Beach State Park - South Beach area  - Route 1A, Hampton, NH 03842; 603-227-8717
Located at the southeastern most tip of New Hampshire and renown for its beautiful sand dunes, sea grass and miles of sandy beach is South Beach State Park. With views of Hampton Harbor and a picturesque rock jetty, this park is a famous retreat for family gatherings and business outings. A private pavilion is available for any special occasion up to 250 guests.

Pavilion – Capacity: 250; Fee: $1,250.00.

The Seashell Oceanfront Pavilion at Hampton Beach State Park is now taking reservations!
This breathtaking venue is set in the heart of Hampton Beach State Park surrounded by miles of pristine white sandy beaches with the most spectacular panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Seashell Oceanfront Pavilion offers an all-in-one setting for your special occasion! Exchange vows in the sand with the sound of waves breaking in the background, have a prelude cocktail reception on the wrap-around Oceanfront Terrace, then proceed up to the stylish Seashell Oceanfront Pavilion which offers all the amenities that you would expect from a first-class wedding facility. The Seashell Oceanfront Pavilion provides elegance and ease for an indoor reception of up to 100 guests. 

Kingston State Park Group Use Area
Kingston State Park  - 124 Main Street, Kingston, NH 03848; 603-642-6571
The park is 44 acres in size, and includes fireplaces, picnic areas, a playground, softball field, and three game areas for horseshoes and volleyball. Two bathhouses with dressing rooms and flush toilets are available. Reservations are accepted for business parties, wedding receptions, kids groups, family functions, and other general gatherings.

Group Use Area – Capacity: 100; Fee: $400.00.

Odiorne Point State Park Group Use Area
Odiorne Point State Park - Route 1A, Rye, NH 03870; 603-227-8717
Surrounded by beautiful stonewalls and overlooking the ocean, Odiorne Point provides a natural backdrop and intimate setting for your next special occasion. Odiorne Point State Park offers one of the most beautiful and diverse natural settings along New Hampshire’s coastline with135-acres of rocky shoreline, sandy beaches, salt marsh, freshwater and salt ponds, dense forest , military and historical sites all connected by an extensive trails system.

Group Use Area – Capacity: 250; Fee: $1,250.00.

Rye Harbor State Park Pavilion and Group Use Area
Rye Harbor State Park  - Off Route 1A, Rye NH 03870; 603-227-8717
Known as one of the most picturesque harbors in the Northeast, Ragged Neck at Rye Harbor State Park is a peninsula of rocky coastline filled with lush green grass. Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean with a spectacular backdrop of the Isles of Shoals, Ragged Neck is earthly paradise! Rye Harbor State Park is the perfect setting for those seeking a unique, isolated location for gatherings of up to 200 people.  A smaller pavilion is also available for groups of 40 people or less.

Pavilion – Capacity: 40; Fee: $300.00. Day Use Area – Capacity: 200; Fee: $600.00.

Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion Group Use Area
Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion State Historic Site – Off Route 1A, Portsmouth, NH 03801; 603-436-6607
This State Historic Site is a great location for a wedding with it’s beautiful, sweeping view of Little Harbor and huge grassy lawn area overlooking Portmouth.The Mansion is the former home of New Hampshire’s first royal governor, Benning Wentworth, who served in office from 1741 to 1767. The rambling 40-room mansion which overlooks Little Harbor, is one of the most outstanding homes remaining of the colonial era. Amenities include boating, fishing, flush toilets and picnicking. Tours of the Mansion available for an additional cost.
Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion site rental information

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That’s right, we got real men to spill their actual feelings about their dearly beloveds. Turns out they’re pretty excited about being tied to someone in sickness and in health, for richer and for poorer — well, you know the rest.

“The first year of marriage is truly a great one. That feeling of new love permeates all you do with your spouse. Even things you’ve done together before feel special because you know it’s now part of a mutual life. This feeling of growth as one entity is both amazing and unique to this time. Plus all of that sweet, sweet action is hard to beat!”

Dean N.*, 34
*Name has been changed.

“The hard parts: Being a single guy is different from being a married guy, and patterns you know from before need to change. Also, the level of disclosure changes, and discussing everything from finances to hopes for the future becomes ‘we’ versus ‘I’.

“The great parts: Having a partner to discuss [the aforementioned] ‘we’ versus ‘I,’ planning for the future, knowing that someone is always there for you, seeing someone who supports you when you get home (especially after a really bad day), and having someone to take care of. One of my favorite parts of the first year of marriage was cooking for her all the time, and she would pretend it was great. (Most of the times it was, but she indulged my missteps.) I love being married and think the world of her. But it’s still scary, especially as I see so many friends and ex’s getting divorced. I don’t know if or when being married gets easy, but it’s exciting to be on this journey with somebody else.”

Brendan R., 34

“I remember thinking how blessed I was to be with my wife. We were engaged less than 10 months after meeting each other, and our relationship was filled with much hope and promise as we settled into an apartment in NYC. She was just starting her career in the federal government, and I was finishing my last year of law school, where we met.

“We thoroughly enjoyed our time together — dining out and traveling — with little to no pressure from work and kids. The best part about marriage is that it helps us be our true selves. The marital contract formed with a spouse (both legal and social) is powerful because the contract erects barriers to leaving the relationship. This helps couples feel more secure. Whereas most couples wouldn’t complain about ‘the little things’ (e.g. leaving water on the sink) married couples have the freedom to mention these types of nuisances knowing that their spouse won’t run for the hills. At first, these changes may feel trivial and nagging, but they’re ultimately the best thing for the relationship. After all, you will spend the rest of your lives together, so why deal with those pet peeves forever? In short, marriage injects more honesty, and that’s a plus in the long run.”

Rodrigo F., 28, CEO of SpiceGuides.com

“Marriage requires constant communication and attention, but the reward is unmeasurable happiness. My sun still rises and sets with Aimee, and I still get all tingly every time I see her. It’s the greatest feeling in the world knowing that you always have someone in your corner.”

Justin G., 34

“Since there are no more long-term question marks in our relationship, there’s a rhythm that was unknowingly missing before we got married. We have each quickly assumed our apropos roles in our relationship and are constantly working together to achieve common goals. Decisions are always made with both of us in mind, and the dependency on one another is really comfortable.

“Getting married also popped a life milestone off the stack for us, and now we get to focus on new future events like children and building a home, which has been lots of fun. I try not to focus too much on expectations and, instead, take things day by day…We have worked through some tough moments over our first year of marriage and always come out with a stronger relationship. I certainly expect that to continue! I’ve learned that] it’s possible to love my wife more with every year.”

Daniel I., 29

“Wedding cake is not as good a year later!”

Paul D., 30

“After five years of marriage, I can say that I love my wife more than ever. Our relationship is the thing I’m most proud of in my life and we still work at it daily. I think of marriage as a competition to see who can serve their partner better. Some days I feel like I’m falling behind and I’ll make sure to do something nice or unexpected. It keeps it fresh and keeps us both very happy.”

Judd H., 35

“We’re in the middle of raising two gorgeous girls, four and 19 months. I am so thankful that my wife and I have always been able to laugh with and at each other, at the sleepless nights of teething and fevers, at the tantrums, at the marvelous honesty of our kids. Humor has often been our savior. I am a lucky guy for finding an amazing woman, and a remarkable mom.”

Scott H., 38

“No comment…Just kidding! I’d do it all over again if I had the chance.”

William M., 29

“Being married for 10 years is awesome. I spent the first 23 years of my life concentrating on finding potential hook ups, so I missed out on so many wonders that the world has to offer. Now that I’ve been married for so long, I don’t need to worry about that stuff anymore, and instead it’s like, ‘Wow, look at all the amazing things I missed before.’

“For example, I saw a Great Blue Heron while I was jogging yesterday. A Great Blue Heron is like a flying dinosaur, and I totally would have missed that before I had gotten married because I would have been completely focused on how to approach and talk to the sorority girl in a sports bra and short shorts doing calisthenics by the running path. Now I’m just focused on the Great Blue Heron. It’s beautiful.”

Aaron T., 34

“I can’t believe she still things my quirks are cute. I’m lucky to have such a wonderful person to share life with. Who came up with the stupid anniversary gifts?”

J. S. Cash, 36, Author of Save Your Finances

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It’s inevitable that you’ll spread the excitement of your wedding to everyone in your social media network, so follow these rules to avoid a Facebook faux pas when it comes to sharing your wedding day details.

But respect their request if they ask you not to post photos before they do.It’s great that you want to show what a great wedding the couple threw and Instagram the cake and the flowers. Some couples may want to wait to share photographic details of the wedding until they have photos from their professional photographer, so you should respect their choice.

If you’re worried about whether you’re in the clear with posting photos, then wait until a close friend or family member of the couple does so first. Then you’ll know if it’s okay to post away!

–Simone Hill

For the guests: Private message any wedding planning questions

It can be awkward for the couple’s other Facebook friends who weren’t invited.

If you want to discuss wedding plans with the bride or groom, then it’s polite to do it in a private way. The couple may have hundreds of Facebook friends who aren’t on the invite list, and it’s not fair if each and every detail comes up on their news feed. Brides especially love to share wedding planning details, and she’ll appreciate a friendly ear to listen if you call to find out how it’s going. This is a busy time for the couple too, so don’t be offended if they don’t keep you up to date on every single detail!

For the guests: If the couple hasn’t made the announcement, then you shouldn’t spill the big news for them

Your close friends and family will want to hear it straight from you first.

It’s exciting when you’re the first to find out your best friend or sister is getting married, but hold off on the public congrats until they’re ready to share the news themselves. They might be waiting for an important reason (like they haven’t even told their parents yet!), and there could be hard feelings involved if others find out they weren’t in-the-know first.

For the guests: Leave the phone in your purse or pocket

Posting occasionally is okay, but the couple invited you to celebrate their day, not sit there on your phone.

The couple spent a lot of time planning an event that you would enjoy, so don’t spend the entire time on your phone posting about the wedding — go have some fun! It’s okay to share the love a few times, but you shouldn’t opt out of hitting the dance floor in favor of tweeting a play-by-play. Plus, having a phone or tablet out all the time can get in the way of photos, and no one wants to look back on their wedding day to see a guest more engaged with a device than their reception.

For the guests: Follow directions for the RSVP

The couple’s inboxes are already full of wedding-related details; a text, email or DM is likely to get lost in the mix.

Most paper invitations will include an RSVP card with an addressed envelope to send it back in, and couples will look for and expect responses by mail (before the deadline!). If you lose the card, then it’s okay to call and find out how the couple would prefer you to RSVP once you know whether you’ll be attending

For the bride and groom: Call your parents before pressing ‘post’ or ‘tweet’

Your close friends and family will want to hear it straight from you first.

A Facebook status or tweet might be the most efficient way to get the news out, but it’s not the most personal. You know which friends and family members would appreciate to hear the news directly from you; plus, it’s likely that older family members (like your grandparents!) don’t have Facebook or Twitter accounts and could miss the message altogether.

For the bride and groom: Change your relationship status in minutes or months…it’s up to you!

There’s no wrong or right time — some couples even do it at the altar!

Once you tie the knot, it’s up to you and your new spouse to decide when to change your relationship status or last name on your social media sites. For some couples, this can be a very important moment; for others, it’s no big deal. So if and when you’re ready to make the change, go for it!

For the bride and groom: Post pics of your engagement ring

But keep the nitty-gritty details like cost and carat to yourself.

After you post your “engaged” status, your friends and family will be dying to find out what the ring looks like, so indulge them with a photo (you may want to prep with a manicure first!). It’s not bragging to share a pic with the exciting news. Leave out the other details, because how much it cost isn’t anyone else’s business — the point is that it symbolizes the commitment you’re making. Everyone’s going to be checking out your hand for the first few months anyway, so make it easy for friends and family to admire from afar.

For the bride and groom: Stay off your phone – designate a ‘tweeter of honor’ instead

Enjoy your day and stay off your phone while still keeping everyone updated.

Your wedding day will fly by, and if you’re focused on your phone or tablet the whole time, you’ll miss out on what’s important. Enjoy the guests who have come to celebrate with you, instead of everyone in your social media circles. Strike a balance and designate a tweeter of honor — it could be another bridesmaid who isn’t your maid of honor (she’ll have plenty of responsibilities already!) — to keep your social networks updated throughout the day so you won’t have to. Another option is to schedule tweets beforehand so they’re ready to go without the hassle.

For the bride and groom: Send out traditional paper invites for the main event

Email invites are totally okay for pre- and postwedding parties!

Paper invites are the way to go for the actual wedding day. In today’s technology-based world, where your guests receive hundreds of emails a day, a physical invite has become that much more special. That doesn’t mean you have to go over the top with an invite that sings and shoots confetti either. Simple card stock and laser printing will do the trick. A paperless invite for the rehearsal dinner or morning-after brunch is a great option (especially if you want to cut down on stationery costs). Just because the invites are electronic doesn’t mean they won’t have style or be personal to you. There are plenty of sites that let you customize e-invites so that they’ll look beautiful and unique to you.

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Travis Harris Photography

With plans for June weddings in full swing we thought you would like to see what we feel are the best and worst wedding destination during that month and why. There is a New England State and anyone of the New England states could have been listed. After all, June is one of the peak times of the year for outstanding weather in New England. I can also personally vouch for the Kona Coast on The Big Island as a prime location to hold your wedding outdoors. We would like you June brides out there to give us your June wedding indoors or outside.

By: Casey Morris weather.com | Lead Picture By: Travis Harris Photography

Why June?

June has always been a popular month for weddings. Named after Juno, the Roman goddess of marriage, the ancients believed that June weddings would bring the marriage prosperity and happiness. However, there are more modern reasons why so many women choose to be “June brides”.

Having a wedding in June can come with many benefits. Schools are out of session, making travel easier for guests. A variety of in-season flowers and outdoor venues are also available during this month. June can also have great weather that is not too hot or cold, and a lower likelihood of spring showers. But not all locations are ideal for outdoor weddings during this month.

We searched for some of the best and worst places for outdoor weddings in June. You might be surprised with a few places we think would be great for an outdoor wedding, while others known for having beautiful weather might not be the best choice for June.

Jesse Schloff/Spruce Peak Realty, LLC.

• Stowe Mountain Resort

Best – Stowe, Vermont

A popular skiing destination in the winter, Stowe also offers a beautiful retreat in June. With lush landscapes, golf courses, mountain top and mountain side wedding sites, and mild summer weather, Stowe is a perfect location for an outdoor wedding in June.

“People have been coming to Stowe in summer to escape the heat since the mid 1800′s. That’s when the area was established as a resort town,” explained Jeff Wise, Marketing and Communications Director for Stowe Mountain Resort. “We only average a handful of days above 80 degrees all summer, usually in August. June’s weather is just perfect–it’s hard to do anything indoors knowing just how beautiful it is outside here in June.”

Stowe wedding tip: Why not take advantage of one of the local golf courses? The groom and groomsmen might enjoy a round of golf before the wedding, or the bride and groom can sneak in a few holes (and some down time for two) after pictures and before the reception.

Photography by Gary Concoby

• Alohaceremonies.com

Best – Kona Coast, Hawaii

Hawaii is one of the most popular locations for destination weddings. With such a beautiful backdrop, it is almost unthinkable to have an indoor wedding on the island state. But not all areas of Hawaii are created equally, and the geography of the Kona Coast allows for particularly nice weather, especially in June.

“We have been officiating and photographing weddings on the Kona Coast of Hawaii’s Big Island for over a decade,” said Rev. Barbara Concoby of Alohaceremonies.com. “Through our years of experience, with only one very mild rain event, we have found that with our island’s coastal consistent 83 degrees plus trade winds conditions, Hawaii is the best place to get married ever–spring, summer, fall, and winter.”

Not only does Hawaii provide a beautiful and romantic landscape, but the summer weather is particularly nice because the northeast trade winds dominate, helping to keep unwanted weather away from the coast. “By the time these trade winds reach the Kona Coast, located along the western edge of the Big Island, they’re dry winds, moving down the slopes of the island’s mountains,” explained Sr. Meteorologist Jon Erdman. (Follow Jon on Twitter.) “The precipitation is deposited along the windward (east-northeast facing) slopes of the Big Island’s mountains. This occurs in other locations in the Hawaiian Islands as well.”

Kona Coast wedding tip: Incorporating Hawaiian wedding traditions is a great way to make the ceremony unique for both the couple and the guests. At the beginning of the ceremony, a traditional Hawaiian lei can be exchanged between the bride and the groom. Much like the wedding ring, the lei represents an unbroken circle that symbolizes the couple’s eternal commitment and devotion to one another.

Island Photo

• Island Photo

Best – Mackinac Island, Michigan

Michigan is known for having some pretty brutal winters, but luckily there are three more seasons of the year. Mackinac Island, located on Lake Huron, is less than four square miles wide, but more than 80 percent of the island is preserved as a state park. Immense natural beauty and great weather make Mackinac Island a great location for outdoor weddings, especially during the month of June.

“You can’t beat daytime highs typically in the low to mid-70s,” said Erdman. “But bring warm clothes for the cool mornings with temperatures averaging in the mid-40s to low 50s.”

Mackinac’s June weather also allows brides a greater variety of choices when it comes to wedding flowers. “Spring flowers, such as tulips and roses, open up in the summer heat and don’t look as good, so June is a great month to use those,” explained Fawn Whelahan, Floral Designer at Beth’s Flowers. Other in-season flowers Mackinac brides opt for are peonies, Indian River hydrangeas, and irises.

Mackinac Island wedding tip: Since 1898, motorized vehicles have been prohibited from the island, giving couples the perfect excuse to take a horse-drawn carriage after the wedding.

The Worst Places for Outdoor Weddings in June

Llanes Weddings

• Llanes Weddings

Worst – San Diego

San Diego is world-renowned as a city with beautiful weather. The Mediterranean climate has average high temperatures that only vary about 10 degrees, from the heart of winter in the mid-60s to the heart of summer in the mid-70s. But due to something called “June Gloom”, this mid-year month is one of the worst times to have an outdoor wedding in San Diego.

“‘June Gloom’ is a phenomenon caused by the desert heat being mixed with the cool Pacific Ocean water, which helps drive low clouds and fog to coastal areas,” explained Erdman. “Most days, this low cloud deck thins out to sunshine by midday. However, some days have thick fog and drizzle lasting into the afternoon, particularly in June.”

San Diego wedding planner Aleah Valley of Valley & Co. noted that her San Diego resident clients often opt for outdoor weddings in March through May. But for the 65% of her clients planning a destination wedding, the weather doesn’t seem to matter as much. “For them,” she said, “even if it’s gloomy, it’s still beautiful. San Diego is amazing.”

Of course indoor weddings are always an option. But for a bride whose heart is set on a San Diego outdoor wedding in June, a little creativity can make all of the difference. One way Valley combats the “June Gloom” is with the use of globe lights and by dressing up the area with colorful swatches of fabric to make everything feel warm and sunny. “The focus should be on the celebration–not the weather.”

Best time for an outdoor wedding in San Diego: September or October. It is before the rainy season, and there are fewer cloudy and foggy days along the coast. Tourism also drops off during these months, making it easier to get beach permits for weddings and receptions, and there are less people on the beaches.

Travis Harris Photography

• Travis Harris Photography

Worst – Miami, Florida

Miami is a tropical paradise, but even paradise can have its downfalls. June is one of the wettest months, with 9.66″ of rain on average. Measurable rain falls at least every other day during the month, and even weak tropical waves can bring heavy rainfall. Add highs near 90 and that classic Florida humidity, and you have a combination for a uncomfortable outdoor wedding.

But sometimes the rain can be a good thing. “It’s a common misconception that bright, sunny days are great for photography,” said Miami wedding photographer Travis Harris of Travis Harris Photography. “Dealing with the harsh sun, it’s more difficult than on a cloudy or even rainy day. The sun creates hard shadows and gives people squinty eyes.”

Instead of shying away from the rain during an outdoor shoot, Harris finds some nook or cranny for cover, even if it’s just for the bride and groom. He then uses off-camera lighting to make the rain seem more like a graphical element. “Rain is definitely something that you have to embrace.”

Perhaps it’s Harris’ attitude toward the rain that has earned him fans of his photography in the particular weather element. “The joke now during any of the weddings I have in the rainy season is that they say, ‘I hope it rains,’ because it gives them something new and different for their photos.” They do say that rain on the wedding day is good luck! Best time for an outdoor wedding in Miami: Mid-late November. This is when the first cold fronts of the dry season arrive and sweep away the humidity. The frequent sea-breeze thunderstorms also end during this time, and the hurricane threat is low. Highs can still reach the low 80s, but this temperature is much more bearable for those not used to the heat.

Cate Eighmey Photography

• Cate Eighmey Photography

Worst – Kansas

There’s no place like Kansas for a wedding. Last month, an outdoor Kansas wedding made national headlines when a pair of uninvited guests showed up: two tornadoes. While tornado tracker and groom Caleb Pence might have shrugged off the cyclones, his bride did not share his enthusiasm.

“While May presents the greatest threat for tornadoes in Kansas, there is still a significant threat in June, mainly early in the month,” said Erdman. So unless the couple really enjoys the thrill of possible tornadoes, having a June wedding outdoors might not be the best idea.

In addition to the chance of tornadoes, June also tends to be the wettest month for Kansas. Thunderstorm clusters are common particularly in the evenings to mornings. “Even in the absence of thunderstorms, June can still be very hot and often humid, with highs in the 90s on one out of every two to four days in June,” noted Erdman.

With all of this crazy weather, what is a June Kansas bride to do? “Hairspray!” answered Ali Ternes, hairstylist at Beau Monde. “I always carry extra hairspray and have the bridal party carry extras with them as well.” She also suggests brides opt for a ‘messy do’ versus a sleek look, which can easily be foiled by the weather. “With the humidity here, texture is in this season, so rock out and be natural,” suggested Ternes.

Best time for an outdoor wedding in Kansas: Early October (Much lower severe threat than late spring, much less rain, lower humidity, highs in the low-mid 70s).

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Timing isn’t usually the first thing that comes to mind when one thinks about the traditional cutting of the cake at a reception. For most of us it conjures up an image of a couple feeding cake to each other with their hands. Cutting the cake does provide an unspoken signal to guests: namely, that it’s okay to leave without being thought of as rude. In days past, the cake was cut at the very end of the reception, and for some guests it was the magic moment that meant they could leave what was usually a long evening. Today, as a courtesy (especially to elderly guests), the cake is cut early on during the reception so that guests are free to leave when they are ready. The cake is typically cut after dinner is over and before the dancing gets in full swing.

I want a non-white wedding dress: how do I convince my traditional mother?

I want my wedding dress to be a color other than white. My mother, a traditionalist, is having a fit about this. She’s footing the bill, so how can I make her understand that times have changed?

Start by arming yourself with the facts. Tell your mom that colorful dresses are a sizzling hot trend in bridal wear. In addition to being quite fashionable, colorful dresses can also be very meaningful. Yes, white represents purity, but so does blue. All the other colors of the rainbow have their own significance, too. For example, purple symbolizes spirituality and yellow represents joy and happiness.

You may even be drawn to a color because it makes you feel great, or it has something special to do with your relationship with your fiancé (it’s the color of the shirt you wore when you first met, or the precise shade of pink of the first roses he sent you). After you explain your desire for color, offer to take your mom out dress shopping with you. She may need to see for herself just how beautiful colorful wedding dresses are. When you find the right one for you, she’s sure to be wowed by how radiant you look in it.

What does the wedding party actually do?

The honor attendant is usually a close friend or family member who not only organizes and hosts a shower for the bride, but also helps her get ready on the wedding day. She wears a dress that she usually pays for, which matches or coordinates with the other bridesmaids, and she sometimes carries a slightly more elaborate bouquet than the other attendants.
The bridesmaids are select friends and family, who are usually about the same age of the bride. They attend pre-wedding parties and also help out with some wedding preparations. They wear matching or coordinating dresses (usually paid for themselves) to the ceremony and are customarily given a gift by the bride as a token of appreciation.

The best man is often the groom’s best friend or a close family member. His formalwear matches the ushers’ and he pays the rental fees himself. He hosts the bachelor party, holds the ring during the ceremony and leads the other men in the well-wishing.

Ushers are also close in age to the groom. They are usually chosen by the groom, and their primary function is seating guests at the wedding. They each wear and pay for matching formalwear, and the groom usually gives each man a present as a thank-you for participating in the wedding.
Children between the ages of 9 and 14 are best suited for the duties of candlelighters, junior bridesmaids or junior ushers. These attendants wear coordinating dresses or formalwear. Parents pay for their children’s attire when asked to be in a wedding, unless otherwise notified by the bride or groom.

Do I need place cards at my reception?

Place cards, which are found at each place setting, are not required, and eliminating them is an easy way to save time and money. Seating cards, however, are another matter. They assign guests to a particular table, and I highly recommend them if you want to prevent a free-for-all (12 guests fighting it out at one table; two lonely souls at another). Creating a seating chart is never fun or easy, but it is preferable to listening to your mother-in-law complain about her table by the buffet line for the next 30 years.

I hate my engagement ring? what do I do?

You must absolutely tell him how you feel! And together you can pick out an engagement ring of equal or lesser value. Most guys will understand that your opinion counts for a lot, since YOU are the one who will be wearing the ring—and literally wearing it every day! And guys are cautioned all the time to discuss ring styles with their partner before making a purchase, so you have good reason to speak up.

However, it is NOT okay to say you want a different ring because you think the stone is too small or of poor quality. Because that’s like saying, “You didn’t spend enough money.” You would never want him to feel that his choice was inadequate in that regard—surely he bought you the most beautiful ring he could afford, so if everything else about the ring works for (metal, stone shape, style) then hold your tongue. Five years from now you can discuss upgrading to a diamond of better quality.

Do you have to serve dinner at your wedding reception?

Our ceremony starts at 7:30 p.m., and the reception will follow directly at 8:00. Do we have to serve dinner?

In most parts of the country, eight o’clock is a reasonable dinner hour; realize that guests will have spent their normal dining period getting ready for and driving to the wedding. If cost-cutting is your motivation for skipping the meal, remember that the food doesn’t have to be elaborate. Instead of pricey filet mignon or lobster, go with a less expensive chicken or pasta dish. Talk to caterers about your budget and your options. You might be pleasantly surprised.

Can we only let some guests bring their children to our wedding?

A lot of our guests have kids, but we don’t want our wedding to feel like a circus. We plan to write “Adult Reception” on the invitations, making exceptions for the flower girls and their brothers, and for children of people who are flying in. Will other guests be insulted?

Once you open up the guest list to kids outside of the wedding party, you’ve got to invite all guests to bring their offspring (though not everyone will want to) or make a strict age-related cut-off (no children under five, for instance). Set up an on-premises nursery overseen by a baby-sitter recommended by a friend or by your officiant. You won’t save any money (you’ll have to pay the sitter and feed the tots), but you will take a load off guests’ minds and preserve the atmosphere you’re after. When you write out the invitations’ inner envelopes, list the names of every person who is invited, including the children. Include a printed card that says there will be a supervised children’s room.

Can my fiancé ask two friends to be best man?

It’s perfectly fine for your fiance to have two people stand up for him. His friends can split the best man duties and even do a tag-team toast.

Should we offer non-cake desserts at our wedding reception?

A slice of cake is the perfect way to end the meal, and you’re not obligated to provide your guests with other selections to choose from. Sure, some couples opt for a dessert table to accompany cake service, but rest assured your guests aren’t counting on it.
However, if you’re looking to add a little variety to dessert, here are a few options that won’t break your wedding-planning bank: You could arrange for plated truffles or chocolate-covered strawberries to be placed on each reception table. Folks who don’t have room for a big slice of cake (go figure!) at the end of a filling meal might still want a little something to satisfy their sweet tooth. Another idea is to set up a fruit station after dinner. It’s a refreshing addition to dessert—especially on a hot summer’s night. Whether you decide to add extra sweets for dessert or not, just remember that as long as guests get their coffee and cake, they’re good to go.

Should my bridesmaids’ dress color be season-appropriate?

Unfortunately, too many people fall prey to the idea that there’s only one “proper” way to do a wedding and you’ll be laughed at if you don’t serve the right meal and wear the right color. But that’s just not the case. Your bridesmaids can wear any color you love, no matter what the season. They should, however, stick to materials that are appropriate for the weather. While some fabrics transcend season or climate, others might look wrong next to the clothes the guests wear. Flimsy chiffon in December would seem odd among the wool coats of Minnesota but would be perfect in balmy southern Florida. And heavy velvet in July is downright mean pretty much everywhere. So go on and pick your favorite shade, whether it’s ice blue or hot pink, and find a great dress in that hue. Trust us—it’ll look just as great in summer as it does in the dead of winter.

Is 11 a.m. too early to serve drinks to my wedding guests?

For some guests, it probably is; for others, a party’s a party no matter what time of day, and they’ll be happy to raise a glass or two. Instead of stocking the bar with hard liquors, though, take a lighter route. “You could do a bubbly bar, with champagnes and sparkling wines, or pass around Bloody Marys, in addition to serving wine and beer,” says Laura Weatherly, owner of Engaging Affairs in Alexandria, Virginia. Fruity alcoholic drinks can be both pretty and punchy, like pomegranate margaritas. Have juices and sodas on hand too, plus iced tea and flavored lemonade in summer or mulled cider in winter.

Is five bridesmaids too many for my wedding party?

I wanted to ask five of my good friends to be bridesmaids, but my fiance says that’s way too many. Now, so as to avoid hurting anyone’s feelings, I’m thinking about not having any attendants at all. Does that make sense to you?

If your fiance is worried that he’ll have trouble coming up with five groomsmen, tell him not to worry—bridal parties don’t have to be symmetrical. However, you can certainly skip the tradition of having bridesmaids and groomsmen and just ask your friends to attend the wedding as guests instead.

Is five bridesmaids too many for my wedding party?

Having your reception start immediately after the ceremony is ideal, which is possible if you’re holding both at the same place. If not, don’t let guests languish for more than an hour between events. Try to choose venues that are no more than half an hour’s drive apart.

Can each of my bridesmaids wear a different color?

The key to pulling off a multicolored bridal party is unity, meaning your bridesmaids should all wear dresses made of the same material in a similar tone. If you’re opting for jewel colors, choose shades like emerald green, sapphire blue and plum—all of which look good together. If pastels are your passion, try dusty rose, pale gray and sage. Flowers should coordinate with each dress, meaning each bouquet should be a different color. But unless you want your party to look like a dance troupe, don’t play mix-and-match with the guys. Have them go with a uniform look—navy suits, black tuxedos or white tie.

Should we send both save-the-dates and wedding invitations?

Do I have to send someone a wedding invitation if I sent them a save-the-date?

It’s an absolute must to send a wedding invitation to anyone who received a save-the-date announcement. There’s a clear expectation when a save-the-date card is received that an invitation will follow; failing to send one is essentially the same as uninviting a guest—which is unacceptable. If finances have become an issue to the planning since the save-the-dates were sent, the answer is to cut back on the scale of catering, music, flowers or invitation—instead of on people already planning to come.

Who should plan my bridal shower?

Let’s start with who should not do it. Traditionally, close relatives (your mom and sisters) do not host the bridal shower, as this can be perceived as the family asking for gifts. But it doesn’t mean that they can’t help organize it—just make sure their names aren’t on the invitation. Your bridesmaids and sisters should join forces, choosing one person to spearhead the shower effort. Enlist your mom to nudge the proceedings along, so that you can retain an air of blissful ignorance.

When should the flower girl and ring bearer walk down the aisle?

In most ceremonies, the ring bearer and flower girl make their entrance (either single file or together) right after the groomsmen and bridesmaids. Then it’s your turn. If you feel they’re mature enough to stay still for the whole ceremony, they can stand directly in front of the wedding party at the altar. Otherwise, have them sit with their parents after their duties are completed. Just be sure that Mom and Dad are seated up front for easy access!

If I went to her wedding, do I have to invite her to mine?

There is no reciprocation rule. Smooth feathers by inviting them to a casual celebration, or get together when you get back from your honeymoon.

Can I mix fake flowers with real flowers?

Absolutely. However if the cost is a concern, good artificial flowers (usually silk) can be more expensive than real blossoms. So unless you’re allergic to the real deal, consider forgoing the faux in favor of in-season blooms or affordable picks like carnations (which look great in a tight bunch) and gerbera daisies. Another great way to save? Consider repurposing your ceremony flowers at the reception. Assembling simple, small arrangements into centerpieces is a great cost cutter and can be a fun DIY project for you and your bridesmaids. That said, if you do decide to go faux, beware of long plastic stems—they’re a dead giveaway and can cheapen the appearance of an otherwise lovely arrangement.

How do I handle an uneven number of groomsmen and bridesmaids?

The good news is this isn’t a problem at all! Lots of couples have an uneven number of attendants. For the processional, tradition dictates that the groomsmen stand with the groom before any of the women in the bridal party walk down the aisle. (Remember Harry standing next to Prince William, whispering how beautiful Kate looked as she made her way toward the altar?) Follow this rule and the uneven number is of no consequence.

Can we have a cash bar at our wedding?

Guests shouldn’t have to shell out for anything at a wedding reception. But there are ways to serve liquor without getting soaked. Lisa Harris, director of catering at the Wyndham Miami Beach Resort, suggests limiting the time the bar is open—you could close it during dinner or an hour before the reception ends, offering just house wines, beer, and soft drinks. Other cost-savers: Pass up expensive premium liquors (you’ll save about 15 percent), and have a sparkling-cider toast instead of passing champagne. If your caterer will allow it, buy your own liquor—that way, you can stockpile during sales and return unopened bottles for credit.

Can we ask for money for our honeymoon instead of gifts?

Registering for gifts is de rigueur, so you probably should register for a few items (surely you can use another carafe or picture frame?), just to give your guests the option. Wanting cash is fine, but banks don’t offer cash registries yet, as far as I know. Instead, have friends direct your guests to sites like honeyfund.com and honeymoonwishes.com, which allow you to register for your big trip. Don’t forget to share pictures when you return!

How do I invite only certain coworkers to the wedding?

This is tricky—especially if you plan on returning to your job after your honeymoon. If you work with 10 or fewer coworkers, you really ought to invite all of them. But if you work at a large company, get the message out that you have to keep the list small, and invite only those you actually spend time with outside of work. The other option is to invite no one from your office other than your boss and your assistant, who (if you have one) most likely licked envelopes or covered for you when you were at a dress fitting. Inevitably, someone who considers you a close work ally might be wounded by not being invited. But there’s a silver lining: This may be an opportunity to establish some boundaries at the office. Worst-case scenario, you won’t get invited to said colleague’s boring holiday party—but did you really want to go anyway? I didn’t think so.

– By Anna Post

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How to renew your wedding vows in a personal way

Renewing your wedding vows is a wonderful way to celebrate and reaffirm the love you have for your partner. When you renew wedding vows, you tell your spouse that you still feel the same strong love for them that you felt when you exchanged vows for the first time.
Wedding vow renewals are becoming more and more popular these days with couples of all ages. Check out our vow renewal ideas and get your questions answered about tying the knot for a second time with the same bride and groom.

Ideas for Your Wedding Vow Renewal
Since your vow renewal can be anything you want it to be, you can go unconventional or traditional. Here are some ideas to make your vow renewal special.

Have a Retro Themed Vow Renewal

Depending on when you got married, there may have been a few centuries between your original wedding date and the date for the renewal of your vows. To make your wedding celebration extra fun, do a retro theme. Whether you got married in the 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, 80’s or 90’s, you can use the timeframe to give personality to your wedding vow renewal. The happy couple can be dressed in clothes from the time period, the décor, music, transportation, food and drinks can also be retro themed. Ask guests to play along by also wearing period clothing.

Involve Your Family

Because you are completely acquainted with your in-laws by now and you may also have children at this point, your wedding vow renewal is the perfect time to get the whole family together and involve them in the ceremony. There are numerous ways to make family members a part of your vow renewal. You can ask them to do readings or even recite special family vows with you.

Another way to bring family into the event is to feature your original wedding photos and family photos at the wedding reception. You can set the photos up at a table for viewing or create a slideshow that will play throughout the event. Family and friends will enjoy looking at the photos and it will add a very personal touch. If you’re still at a loss as to how to involve the family in your wedding, ask your officiate for some suggestions.

Do a Destination Vow Renewal

To make the occasion a little more adventurous, do it at a far flung destination. Because wedding vow renewals are typically more intimate than traditional weddings, the guest lists are smaller and it’s easier to whisk guests away to a location other than your home town. Also, since most vow renewals take place during wedding anniversaries, you can combine the destination wedding with an anniversary trip. You can renew your vows in any number of destinations, the Caribbean, Hawaii, Las Vegas or even Europe. Let your personal style and budget be your guide.

However you celebrate your renewal of vows, be sure to have fun and make it personal. The reception portion of the wedding can be as casual as a backyard barbeque or as formal as a reception at a luxurious banquet hall. Just get together lots of friends, family, good music, food and cake and you’ll be on your way.

What Else You Need To Know About Wedding Vow Renewals
When to Renew Your Wedding Vows

You can hold your vow renewal whenever you’d like, but most vow renewals take place on the couple’s anniversary date. That way, you only have one anniversary date to remember for the future. Vow renewals are definitely more popular for couples that have been married many years, but they are also appropriate for couples who never held a large wedding at the original time of their marriage.

Most vow renewals take place during special anniversaries like a couple’s 10th, 25th or 50th anniversary. Another significant time for vow renewals can be when a couple has come through a challenging time in their relationship, these couples want to celebrate that they’re still together through the good times and bad.

Registering for Gifts

So, you are technically getting married when you renew your vows, does that mean that you get to receive wedding gifts all over again? In short, the answer is no. While guests can bring gifts to the wedding if they decide to on their own accord, you shouldn’t give any indication that guests are expected to bring gifts. Also, it isn’t appropriate for you to register for gifts or have a wedding shower for your vow renewal. If the vow renewal is part of a large anniversary celebration, some guests will bring gifts to commemorate your anniversary.

Vow Renewals are for All Couples

Although vow renewals are a very popular way to celebrate a milestone wedding anniversary, these days vow renewals aren’t just for 50th anniversary couples. There is a big trend for couples who originally married in civil ceremonies to renew their vows in a large traditional wedding. Many couples that opted for a small wedding or elopement due to monetary reasons are using vow renewals as a way to have a complete wedding experience even after they’ve been married for a few years. Now that they are older and are making a little more money, these couples can go all out and have the wedding that they’ve always wanted.

What to Wear

For your vow renewal, you should wear whatever fits the occasion and makes you feel comfortable. Many brides choose to wear their original bridal gown or a newly purchased wedding dress. Though white on a wedding dress once symbolized purity, it is still very appropriate to wear a white gown for vow renewals. If the occasion is a more casual affair, a pale colored suit or informal dress is a good way to go.

Rings for Vow Renewals

Since your vow renewal will likely involve exchanging rings, should you get a new wedding ring or should you use your original wedding jewelry. This is completely up to you as there are no standards to go by. It is acceptable for you to use your original wedding rings in the ceremony, or if you feel like it’s time for an upgrade, a vow renewal at your anniversary is the perfect time.

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