Wedding Question Wednesday~ How do I address my wedding invitations?

How do I address my wedding invitations?

After checking and re-checking your guest list, it's finally finalized! What a relief... right? Now it is time to send the invites off to your calligrapher and get them in the mail. There is proper, formal etiquette in addressing your envelopes to your guests, and we're here to give you a hassle-free guide on how to do it. Here is a list of categories to help you determine what is acceptable when sending invitations:

Married Couple

When sending an invitation to a married couple, its proper to use "Mr. and Mrs." You must spell out the husband's first name. For example the card would read, "Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Ruppert"

Hyphenated Last Name

If your guest is a wife who has chosen to keep her maiden name, then she should be addressed using "Ms." (if you prefer "Mrs." you can choose that option as well). Start with the husbands name, then use "Ms. or Mrs." (your preference) + her first name + maiden name + married name. For example: "Mr. Jim Smith and Ms. Ashley Greene-Smith."

Single Female

In this situation, age is a determining factor in the way the envelope is addressed. If she is over the age of 16, it is proper to use "Ms"., but if she is younger than 16 "Miss" is the acceptable option. 

Same Sex Couple

In this case, you have much more freedom of how to address the card. There is no proper order of the guests, it is your discretion. If you can't chose, then address the guests in alphabetical order. For example: "Mr. Nathan Brown and Mr. Nicholas Crosby."

Widow

Generally, a widow keeps her husband's name unless she remarries, but there are cases in which the widow prefers to use her own name. In order to be certain, it is best to ask her personal preference. You could address the card as either "Mrs. John Dunlop or Mrs. Ashley Dunlop."

Married Couple, Both Doctors

Some occupations require a proper introduction to their name, just make sure to be aware of that. In this case of married doctors where the wife took her husbands name, it is the most proper to use "The Doctors Smith". If you don't feel comfortable doing so, another option is "Drs. Ashley and Jim Smith."

Married Couple, One spouse is a doctor

The partner who is the doctor in the couple has a professional title that "outranks" other social titles. With that being said, if the wife is the doctor then address the envelope by writing  "Dr. Ashley Smith and Mr. Jim Smith". If the husband is the doctor, then his name should be presented first, "Dr. Jim Smith and Mrs. Ashley Smith."

2014 Trend Alert: Marquee Letters

We're always searching for the newest trends, and when we find something GREAT we love to share it with you! This new idea can certainly be used at your reception, but we think it works great at your rehearsal dinner! As wedding planners, we notice that couples always plan out every detail to make their reception flawless that some forget about decor for their rehearsal dinner. Well no fear, we're here to tell (and show) you about the newest trend of Marquee lettering.

Marquee letters are a special and personalized accent that literally lights up the room. Why we love them so much is that they are customized to each couple! Of course you could do a more generic "Mr. & Mrs.", but we've found a variety of options that will appeal to everyone!

You could use any word as well... and since you're celebrating your wedding... why not use a little love? 

Using "Mr. & Mrs." and "LOVE" help emphasize the celebration of marriage, but by using your initials, they could serve as a dual purpose to decorate your house as well. 

Marquee letters bring a Old Hollywood theme with collaboration of a contemporary design. These letters come in any font or size of your preference. They could serve as a focal point, or act as a 

highlighting accent in any room!

Wedding Question Wednesday: Escort cards vs. Place Cards: How can they be coded for guest meal selections?

Question: What is the difference between a place card and an escort card?

Its a common misconception that those two cards can be interchanged, but in reality both serve a different purpose. An escort card's purpose is to inform the guest of which table they are sitting at. Escort cards are at the entrance of the venue where a guest can take their specific tag with them to their table.

The use of the place card takes it one step further. The place card will be at the place setting for the guest upon their arrival; it informs them what chair they are assigned to. By assigning guests to chairs, waiters can more easily distinguish which guest selected what entrée based on a list given to the venue prior to the event.

In recent years, it has become a more common trend to only use escort cards and allow the guests to choose what seat they prefer. What is great about escort cards is your guest can sit next to whomever they like. You can also code the escort cards so the waiter knows what entrée your guest have chosen by coding the back of the them with colored dots. For example, blue could be for steak, and red could be for fish.

This simple solution reduces confusion and makes a more comfortable environment. It doesn't mean that the waiter isn't going to double check, especially for allergy purposes, and ask your guest what they are having for dinner, but it helps the fluidity of the service. It gets you through your meal quicker so you can hit the dance floor sooner!

Popular wedding flowers for Spring 2014!

Hellooo Spring!

As the snow begins to melt, and trees begin to blossom, we move into a new season for weddings, Spring brings a change of colors and flowers!  We've complied a list of elegant, yet modern flowers that create stunning bouquets and centerpieces. We've captured a variety of flowers for all of our Spring bride's, so find the one that's perfect for YOU!

Thistle is a fun and modern flower that comes in a lot of varieties. It can be used for a textural aspect, but can also give off the natural, wildflower feel in any wedding. This flower is perfect for an outdoor wedding.

Japanese Mums can be considered a more "traditional" flower for Spring weddings, but what is great about them is their availability in bright colors. These mums are a full bodied flower, without being too fluffy.

 

Like Japanese Mums, Celosia comes in radiant colors that serve as a perfect accent to each arrangement. Alone with these bright hues, Celosia has a soft and velvety feel that textually acts more as a feather than a flower.

This flower could possibly be the most popular of the year. Why? Because it comes in this years radiant orchid, the 2014 Pantone Color of the Year. South American Vining Jasmine flower brings an exotic feel to your wedding, and on top of that it's extremely fragrant. Use this flower to feel like you're in paradise on your special day.

Want to change it up a bit? Try Green Trichelium it's the perfect choice for you! Include this in your arrangements to break up all the flowers and give it some texture. This deep emerald green is perfect for any season, but its a hot commodity this Spring!

Real Wedding: Jean & Bill at Squantum Association

For our last wedding of 2013, we had the pleasure of working with Jean and Bill Dolan on their amazing ceremony and reception at Squantum Association on November 30th. Upon meeting the couple, it was clear to everyone around them how in love they were! Their love radiates and can light up any room; we knew it was going to be a beautiful union.

It was a gorgeous, crisp, fall day outside and the ceremony was held facing the water during the sunset. 

Jean is a musician, so it was essential that their music played an important role throughout the day. The ceremony processional was timed perfectly to a song played by the New England String Quartet; it was a great personal touch.  

The ceremony had many other personal touches such as a Musical Mediation and a unity candle ceremony. Jean and Bill also brought tears to the eyes of their guests when they said a Reflection towards one another, that were so beautifully written and very well said. 

As the evening progressed, guests walked over to the Bakehouse; an incredible room on its own but with the help of the gorgeous flowers provided by Stoneblossom, the amazing cake by Confectionary Designs, and decor that they chose, it was a truly elegant event.

 During the reception, music was provided by the band Total Groove, which was a total hit. Guests danced all night and had a wonderful time.

The evening was a beautiful reflection of their love for each other and we are so glad we could be apart of it!

All pictures thanks to Nicole Gesmondi Photographer, LLC. 

Jean & Bill's Wedding Vendors:
Wedding Coordinator: Infinite Events
Venue: Squantum Association 

Photographer: Nicole Gesmondi Photographer, LLC

Ceremony & Cocktail Music: New England String Quartet

Florist: Stoneblossom

Band: Total Groove

Baker: Confectionery Designs
Tuxedos: Anthony's House of Formals
Hair & Make-up: Salon KG
Bridal Accessories/Hair Piece: Perception Jewelry

~Wedding Question Wednesday~ Unique Ways to "Pop the Question"!

Question: What are some unique and creative ways to propose?

Answer: During the winter months, it's cold, it's dreary, and most people are sitting and dreaming of warmer weather and fun times to come. But for us "wedding people", we like to think the opposite! This is the time of year we like to call "Engagement Season", because statistics show that many people pop the big question during these months. Want to make yours unique? It is important to remember that this moment is about your partner, and you two as a couple. After all, it's the little things that count, so be sure to pay attention to the details to make this moment extra special! Here are some fun and unique ideas we love:

Scavenger hunts that involve your favorite places, hobbies, friends and family! 

In her (or your!) favorite book, and when she opens it there is a hallowed out heart with the ring inside! (Can be purchased on Etsy!)

Pour her a cup of Joe with a little surprise on the mug!

You can even incorporate your favorite four-legged friend!

Photobooth surprises are an easy way to make it in intimate moment, but still have pictures to keep forever.

**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!**

~Wedding Question Wednesday~ Best Indoor Photo Locations in the RI/Boston Area?

This Week's Question: What are some indoor engagement photo locations in the Rhode Island/Boston area?

Answer: There are many beautiful locations throughout Rhode Island or in the Boston area that are suitable for engagement photos. Whether you are looking for casual photos at a local spot, or a more formal location there are plenty to choose from. Although, be mindful that most locations require permission for photography and some charge a fee. Some of our favorites are: The Providence Public Library (1 hour for a fee of $150), the Rhode Island State House (3 hours for a fee of $200), and the Isabella Stewart Gardener Museum (fee TBD).  Engagement photos do not always need to be formal, why not take them in your favorite restaurant or place to visit? Just be sure to check with the management to make sure its okay.

Providence Public Library 

Photo Credit: Allegro Photography

**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!**

Should I Bring The Host A Gift?

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!**

~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.

**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!**

~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. 

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!**

~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!

**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!**

~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)

**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!**

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!**

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!**

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!

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.

 Credit: Kevin Trimmer Photography

Some couples use a piece of their loved one’s jewelry on the ribbon of their wedding bouquet.
Credit: Shannon Lee Images

You can use the cuff links of someone special as your own on your wedding day.
Credit: Janis Foley Photography

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.

Creative Poster Idea above by Kendra Joy

 

 A Gift of Custom Jewelry {these beautiful examples can be found on BuySomeLove's Shop on Etsy}

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.