This week we have decided to switch up blog post on our usual ~Wedding Question Wednesday~ and answer a question that we are always asked, no matter what the occasion. In honor of the holiday season which is filled with parties, dinners, and other festivities, there seems to be the burning question.
This Week's Question: Should I bring the host or hostess a gift?
Answer: It is always a lovely gesture to bring a small gift to someone who is hosting a dinner or small party. It does not have to be anything extravagant or expensive. Bringing a bottle of wine, flowers (preferably in a vase), or a speciality food item can go a long way. If you are close friends or family who dine together often, gifts are not required.
However, there are some things to remember when bringing a gift. When bringing wine, do not assume that it will be served that evening. The wine may have already been specifically chosen to go with the meal. Generally speaking, you should not bring cooked foods because your host may feel obligated to serve it, and it may upset her menu. Instead, bringing jams or jellies, specialty oils, or chocolates is more appropriate.
At a casual dinner party, small gifts like the ones listed above are appropriate. If you are invited to a large, formal dinner, hostess gifts are not expected, unless of course there is a guest of honor. On birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, or showers, you should bring a gift for the honoree. If you are the guest of honor, you should bring a small gift for the hosts of the party, and later on send a thank-you note. It is customary to bring a gift for a housewarming. It does not need to be expensive, however it should be lasting for the house. Guest towels, cheese knives, or even personalizing a small gift basket with restaurant menus from the area are all great ideas.
**For answers/advice regarding your own wedding, please email us at: info@infinite-events.com. We are happy to keep your questions anonymous if you prefer. Thanks for reading and we look forward to hearing from you!**
Wednesday, December 25, 2013
Wednesday, December 18, 2013
~Wedding Question Wednesday~ Gift Registry Info and Invitations
This Week's Question: Can we include our registry information on our invitation?
Answer: You should NEVER include information regarding a gift registry on your invitations, because it implies that the gift is more important than the company of the guest(s) that you are inviting. You should tell your wedding party, parents, and close friends, as your guests are likely to ask them.
It is becoming increasingly popular for couples to create websites or social media pages that include all of the information regarding their wedding. However, it is impolite to include registry information on a main page. It is acceptable to create a link that leads to a subsequent page that includes registry information, or directly to the online registry itself.
Answer: You should NEVER include information regarding a gift registry on your invitations, because it implies that the gift is more important than the company of the guest(s) that you are inviting. You should tell your wedding party, parents, and close friends, as your guests are likely to ask them.
It is becoming increasingly popular for couples to create websites or social media pages that include all of the information regarding their wedding. However, it is impolite to include registry information on a main page. It is acceptable to create a link that leads to a subsequent page that includes registry information, or directly to the online registry itself.
**For answers/advice regarding your own wedding, please email us at: info@infinite-events.com. We are happy to keep your questions anonymous if you prefer. Thanks for reading and we look forward to hearing from you!**
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
~Wedding Question Wednesday~ Frame Tent vs. Century Tent
~Wedding Question Wednesday ~ Our New Weekly BlogPost! A chance for all couples and/or wedding goers to get some real answers on some real life wedding situations.
This Week's Question: What are the pros and cons of a framed tent v. a century tent?
Answer: Century tents are more commonly used for weddings, and are more aesthetically pleasing. They have graceful peaks in their structure which not only is more attractive, it is the key element in the tent's strength. Century tents can to uphold against winds up to 70 MPH and can be decorated with many types of lights and draping. However, frame tents, which are just structured around frames on their perimeter, tend to work best when there is little anchoring is available.
This Week's Question: What are the pros and cons of a framed tent v. a century tent?
Answer: Century tents are more commonly used for weddings, and are more aesthetically pleasing. They have graceful peaks in their structure which not only is more attractive, it is the key element in the tent's strength. Century tents can to uphold against winds up to 70 MPH and can be decorated with many types of lights and draping. However, frame tents, which are just structured around frames on their perimeter, tend to work best when there is little anchoring is available.
Frame Tent
Century Tent
**For answers/advice regarding your own wedding, please email us at: info@infinite-events.com. We are happy to keep your questions anonymous if you prefer. Thanks for reading and we look forward to hearing from you!**
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
~Wedding Question Wednesday~ Receiving Wedding Registry Gifts for Christmas
~Wedding Question Wednesday ~ Our New Weekly BlogPost! A chance for all couples and/or wedding goers to get some real answers on some real life wedding situations.
This Week's Question: Are wedding thank you notes expected if a Christmas gift comes from the registry? Are you expected to not use the gift until the wedding? (I've read that shower gifts should not be used until after the wedding).
Answer: If you receive a wedding gift from your registry at Christmas, the same rules of etiquette would apply as if you were to receive one in the mail before the wedding. You should still send a thank you note and it should be sent one-two weeks after it’s received. As for using gifts, you can absolutely open them and use them – your guests will love knowing you are happy with them and you can even mention that in your thank you note!
This Week's Question: Are wedding thank you notes expected if a Christmas gift comes from the registry? Are you expected to not use the gift until the wedding? (I've read that shower gifts should not be used until after the wedding).
Answer: If you receive a wedding gift from your registry at Christmas, the same rules of etiquette would apply as if you were to receive one in the mail before the wedding. You should still send a thank you note and it should be sent one-two weeks after it’s received. As for using gifts, you can absolutely open them and use them – your guests will love knowing you are happy with them and you can even mention that in your thank you note!
**For answers/advice regarding your own wedding, please email us at: info@infinite-events.com. We are happy to keep your questions anonymous if you prefer. Thanks for reading and we look forward to hearing from you!**
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
~Wedding Question Wednesday~ What to Include in Your Wedding Invitations
~Wedding Question Wednesday ~ Our New Weekly BlogPost! A chance for all couples and/or wedding goers to get some real answers on some real life wedding situations.
This Week's Question: What What is everything that should be included in the invitation?
Answer: Wedding invitations are extremely important not only for inviting your guests and giving them all of the correct information, but also because they set the tone for your wedding day. There are many ways to send out invitations, and not all couples choose to go with the traditional route with everything included. However, invitation suites typically include the following:
- Invitation
- Reception Card
- RSVP Card
- RSVP Envelope
- Directions Card
- Accommodations Card
- Outer Envelope
- Inner Envelope
*Rehearsal Dinner invites can be included for the guests being invited to that (if they're ready and from the same suite)
This Week's Question: What What is everything that should be included in the invitation?
Answer: Wedding invitations are extremely important not only for inviting your guests and giving them all of the correct information, but also because they set the tone for your wedding day. There are many ways to send out invitations, and not all couples choose to go with the traditional route with everything included. However, invitation suites typically include the following:
- Invitation
- Reception Card
- RSVP Card
- RSVP Envelope
- Directions Card
- Accommodations Card
- Outer Envelope
- Inner Envelope
*Rehearsal Dinner invites can be included for the guests being invited to that (if they're ready and from the same suite)
**For answers/advice regarding your own wedding, please email us at: info@infinite-events.com. We are happy to keep your questions anonymous if you prefer. Thanks for reading and we look forward to hearing from you!**
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
Wedding Question Wednesday ~ When and How to Tip your Wedding Vendors
~Wedding Question Wednesday ~ Our New Weekly BlogPost! A chance for all couples and/or wedding goers to get some real answers on some real life wedding situations.
This Week's Question: Which vendors are you supposed to tip, and how much?
Answer: When you hire multiple people for wedding day services, it is always tricky to figure out who you should tip, and how much. Because we're asked this question so often, we have created a Tipping Cheat Sheet for our clients, and we are sharing here in hopes to make tipping easier for every couple!
**For answers/advice regarding your own wedding, please email us at: info@infinite-events.com. We are happy to keep your questions anonymous if you prefer. Thanks for reading and we look forward to hearing from you!**
This Week's Question: Which vendors are you supposed to tip, and how much?
Answer: When you hire multiple people for wedding day services, it is always tricky to figure out who you should tip, and how much. Because we're asked this question so often, we have created a Tipping Cheat Sheet for our clients, and we are sharing here in hopes to make tipping easier for every couple!
**For answers/advice regarding your own wedding, please email us at: info@infinite-events.com. We are happy to keep your questions anonymous if you prefer. Thanks for reading and we look forward to hearing from you!**
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
Wedding Question Wednesday ~ Inviting Guests who can not attend...
~Wedding Question Wednesday ~ Our New Weekly BlogPost! A chance for all couples and/or wedding goers to get some real answers on some real life wedding situations. From etiquette, unique ideas, and even family drama, let us help you become an expert. Follow us now and check back every Wednesday for tips, tricks and guidance to help you throughout your planning process.
This Week's Question: "Speaking with one of my friends last night that I had intended to invite to our wedding, I found out she was going to be in a wedding in VT the same day as ours. So she won't be able to make it. What is the proper protocol here? Do I still invite her even though I know she won't come?"
Answer: For guests that you know can not attend your wedding, you do not have to send them invitations if they have told you they can not attend. Sending an invite anyway can imply that the guest still has to send you a gift so just a verbal "we wish you could make it, we would have loved to have you there" is completely acceptable.
**For answers/advice regarding your own wedding, please email us at: info@infinite-events.com. We are happy to keep your questions anonymous if you prefer. Thanks for reading and we look forward to hearing from you!**
This Week's Question: "Speaking with one of my friends last night that I had intended to invite to our wedding, I found out she was going to be in a wedding in VT the same day as ours. So she won't be able to make it. What is the proper protocol here? Do I still invite her even though I know she won't come?"
Answer: For guests that you know can not attend your wedding, you do not have to send them invitations if they have told you they can not attend. Sending an invite anyway can imply that the guest still has to send you a gift so just a verbal "we wish you could make it, we would have loved to have you there" is completely acceptable.
**For answers/advice regarding your own wedding, please email us at: info@infinite-events.com. We are happy to keep your questions anonymous if you prefer. Thanks for reading and we look forward to hearing from you!**
Thursday, June 27, 2013
Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue
The “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue” tradition is one that we’ve all heard of but where does it come from? It hails from an Old English rhyme that actually says: "Something olde, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a silver sixpence in your shoe." These items were given to the bride on her wedding day (before she walked the aisle) for good luck.
As planners, couples often ask us whether they should follow this tradition and/or if it's still commonly followed. Our answer is always the same - it's truly a matter of preference and about half of our couples choose to embrace it. Before deciding whether it's right for you, we thought we would provide a better explanation on the meaning behind the words.
"Something Old" represents the past moving into the future. Some of our favorite "old" items we've seen incorporated include heirloom jewelry from a bride's relative, a piece of a grandmothers/mothers dress sewn into the bridal gown, and a locket with a relatives photo inside hanging from her bouquet wrap.
"Something New" represents optimism for the future life the couple will share together. This is typically the easiest option of the tradition as it can be a new dress, new jewelry, a garter or lingerie.
"Something Borrowed" represents borrowing happiness, usually from another happily married couple or a friend or relative who symbolizes happiness in the couple's eyes. Some of our favorite borrowed items include an aunts gorgeous cathedral length veil and even using a parents first dance song.
"Something Blue" represents love, good fortune, and fidelity. Some of our favorite blue items included bright blue shoes, a blue sapphire necklace, and a headpiece lightly embellished with blue gemstones.
The sixpence is still a widely performed custom in Britain but not so much here in the U.S. It is placed in the left shoe before walking down the aisle and represents prosperity for the new couple.
Whether you decide to embrace this tradition or not, we hope this helps you in making your decision!
As planners, couples often ask us whether they should follow this tradition and/or if it's still commonly followed. Our answer is always the same - it's truly a matter of preference and about half of our couples choose to embrace it. Before deciding whether it's right for you, we thought we would provide a better explanation on the meaning behind the words.
"Something Old" represents the past moving into the future. Some of our favorite "old" items we've seen incorporated include heirloom jewelry from a bride's relative, a piece of a grandmothers/mothers dress sewn into the bridal gown, and a locket with a relatives photo inside hanging from her bouquet wrap.
"Something New" represents optimism for the future life the couple will share together. This is typically the easiest option of the tradition as it can be a new dress, new jewelry, a garter or lingerie.
"Something Borrowed" represents borrowing happiness, usually from another happily married couple or a friend or relative who symbolizes happiness in the couple's eyes. Some of our favorite borrowed items include an aunts gorgeous cathedral length veil and even using a parents first dance song.
"Something Blue" represents love, good fortune, and fidelity. Some of our favorite blue items included bright blue shoes, a blue sapphire necklace, and a headpiece lightly embellished with blue gemstones.
The sixpence is still a widely performed custom in Britain but not so much here in the U.S. It is placed in the left shoe before walking down the aisle and represents prosperity for the new couple.
Whether you decide to embrace this tradition or not, we hope this helps you in making your decision!
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
The People You Will Always Remember, On the Day You Will Never Forget
Your wedding day is undoubtedly one of the
most special days you will experience in this lifetime. It is a day you hope to
share with some of the most important people in your life. But, unfortunately, some
of our most loved family and friends are unable to be with us on the big day.
Many couples will incorporate a piece of clothing from their loved ones into
their gown or suit to symbolize their presence on the wedding day. Whether you
wish to use a piece of your grandmother’s dress as your own or sew your
father’s favorite handkerchief onto your gown, these seemingly small gestures
have a much bigger sentimental meaning behind them. Here are some creative and
thoughtful ways to incorporate your loved ones into your special day.
This bride had her father’s favorite
handkerchief sewn on the inside of her dress.
Some couples use a piece of their loved one’s
jewelry on the ribbon of their wedding bouquet.
Credit: Shannon Lee Images
Credit: Shannon Lee Images
Credit: Janis Foley Photography
Sunday, May 5, 2013
Unique Ways to ask your Maids!
Your fiance popped the BIG question, now it's time to ask your bridesmaids to join the party!
Consider asking them in a most memorable
way. Whether it is sentimental or humorous, these great ideas will surely have your bridesmaids ready to bustle your dress on command!
Grab their favorite wine and add custom labels (example shown from My Own Labels)
These fun cards above can be found on Zazzle
A custom frame with a sentimental note is something they'll cherish for a long time after the wedding.
A Gift of Custom Jewelry {these beautiful examples can be found on BuySomeLove's Shop on Etsy}
Friday, April 26, 2013
Venue Spotlight ~ Alden Castle, Boston, MA
If you have dreamed about your fairytale wedding since you were a little girl, Alden Castle may be the perfect fit. The venue is located in Brookline, MA, just minutes from downtown Boston. It was named after John Alden who traveled to America on the Mayflower and was built in 1925. At the time, this breathtaking castle was one of the most prestigious luxury residence hotels in the world. As far as hosting weddings, Alden Castle has a lot of offer; the vintage ballroom can fit up to 200 guests comfortably and for smaller guests counts, the modern club is one of a kind, with an intimate setting. Alden's vintage decor features royal Tudor architecture, ecru Becara chandeliers, silk champagne drapery and large windows which fill the ballroom with natural light. Alden's modern club plays up it's dramatic mahogany walls, stunning gold leafed fleur-de-lis ceiling, and breathtaking original glass chandeliers. Did we forget to mention they both have amazing balconies and the castle has a terrace that overlooks a gorgeous rose garden? Absolutely a site to see!
Not only does the Alden Castle have two amazing event spaces but they are also known for great food! Everything is prepared on-site by their in-house chef who supports local farmers by using their produce. Their cuisine is to die for.
One of our own event planners, Christine Mansella, was lucky enough to have the opportunity to recently take a tour of the castle. "{Alden Castle} greatly exceeded my expectations! Michelle there is truly a pleasure. She has a very upbeat personality and really knows what it takes to run a successful event!"
If you're venue shopping in the Boston area, definitely put this on your list and check out some of these amazing photos and Alden Castle's website for more information.
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Get Creative with your Valentine's Day Gifts!
If you're tired of the same old box of chocolates and flowers for Valentine's Day, check out these unique gift ideas. It's time to think outside the little red box!
Map Art - a super thoughtful gift from hubby to wife! Celebrate not only Valentines Day with this cool gift but also memories, vacations, family, etc. Perfect to hang in your home as a constant reminder of what's important in life. {find it at Wandering Fables on etsy.com}
For the man who is business by day but rocker at night, what's better than guitar cufflinks?
{find these on Beluga Home Studio on etsy.com}
Customize your other half's phone case with your wedding photo or a family pic!
{find it at TinyPrints}
{find it at TinyPrints}
Message on a Bottle; Personalized Moët & Chandon with your very own love note this year!
For the man who loves beer and leaves rings on your coffee table
{find these at Gorgeous Glassware on etsy.com}
And last but not least, something for the couple with a good sense of humor
{find it at Signature Tshirts on etsy.com}
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Why we toss wedding garters...
Ever wonder where the wedding garter tradition came from??
The garter tradition originated in France during the 14th Century. In Europe, many people believed that receiving a piece of the bride’s clothing meant that they would have good luck. Because of this, people would often tear off pieces of a bride's wedding dress. To avoid this, brides began throwing their garters to the guests but it still wasn't enough; guests then started rushing brides at the altar! Eventually, that tradition also changed; grooms began stepping in and performing the same tradition we have today. He would remove the garter (protecting his bride) and then toss it to the guests. Whomever catches the garter is still thought to receive good luck. And lucky for today's brides, your dresses will stay in tact!!
{Beautiful garter above can be found at 'Little White Dress' shop on etsy.com}
Friday, January 4, 2013
UPCOMING Bridal Shows that you don't want to miss!
Here is a list of amazing Bridal Shows that our located in the MA/RI area and are coming up quickly!
- THIS Sunday, Jan. 6, 2013 - Southern New England Wedding Expo at Rhode Island Convention Center in Providence, RI from 10-5pm.
http://southernnewenglandbridalexpo.com/ - THIS Sunday, Jan. 6, 2013- Hawthorne Show in Dartmouth, MA from 12-3pm.
http://hawthornecountryclub.com/events/ - Jan. 13, 2013- Grand Wedding Expo at Venus De Milo in Swansea, MA from 11:30-4pm.
http://www.grand-wedding.com/home.html - Jan. 27, 2013- Grand Wedding Expo at Rhodes on the Pawtuxet in Cranston from 11-4:30pm. Come and meet Randi Fanoli from Say Yes to the Dress!!
http://www.grand-wedding.com/home.html - Feb. 3, 2013- Cherish the Moments Wedding Expo at Jacky's Galaxie Restaurant in Bristol, RI from 11-4pm.
http://www.cherishthemoments.net/ - Feb. 10, 2013- Lafrance Hospitality Bridal Show at Rachel's Lakeside in Dartmouth, MA from 12-3pm.
http://eventsbylhc.com/weddings/2013-lhc-bridal-show/ - Feb. 16, 2013- Newport Bridal Show at the Rosecliff and Oceancliff in Newport, RI at 11am.
http://www.newportweddingexpo.com/ - March 24, 2013- Rhode Island Wedding Group Get Pink Show!! This is held at the Newport Marriott in Newport, RI. This is one show you will NOT want to miss and is very different than all other Bridal Shows! There is a Silent Bridal Auction and Walk the Runway Contest! You can book your wedding vendors there for an amazing price! ALL proceeds go to Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation!!
http://www.facebook.com/events/291883554199191/ - April 7, 2013- The Original Wedding Expo at the Twin River Casino Event Center in Lincoln, RI from 11-3pm.
http://www.originalweddingexpo.com/weddingexpo.html?show.id=916