Do you have a loved one or friend who will be retiring this year? A retirement party is an ideal way to help the retiree bid farewell to the workplace. Getting family, acquaintances, and co-workers together in one location to celebrate this special occasion, though, can be an immense undertaking. Here are three planning ideas to help you host an unforgettable retirement celebration.

1. Get Help

Don’t attempt to do all the planning without help. Organizing any event takes significant time and commitment, and retirement parties are more complex than other event types. This is why it’s a smart idea to have a small group of helping hands. Ask for assistance from at least one relative/friend and one co-worker to organize and coordinate appropriately.

2. Establish a Budget

Event planning can become pricey really quickly if you’re not mindful of your spending. Be sure you have a budget and don’t deviate from it even if plans change. Have a spending limit separated by category, such as food, entertainment, etc. Continue Reading →

First, congrats on your recent engagement! You’ve likely figured out the immense magnitude of the planning that lies ahead. A major aspect is deciding which colors you want for your wedding. If the ceremony is outside, consider these outdoor wedding colors for the best visual aesthetics.

1. Yellow, Silver, and Grey

Do you have your wedding planned for fall or winter? If you reside in an area with a mild climate, outdoor ceremonies during cooler months can be a pleasant experience for everyone. Aim for yellow, silver, and grey for the primary colors. The yellow will especially stand out and contrast with the natural grey of the colder seasons.

2. Navy, Blue, and Yellow

Aiming towards summer or autumn for your big day? Here’s a terrific color combo for your outdoor wedding! Navy, blue, and yellow are great together and exude a cheery ambiance. Think boats and sailors galore!

3. Pale Green, White, and Black

Here’s another combination workable for outdoor venues, regardless of the season. Pale green, white, and black work just as nicely in the winter as they do during the summer. Black is a bold contrast to the more subtle white and green color schemes, making the background a stand-out focal piece. Continue Reading →

Have you fantasized about getting married in the presence of fallen snow? A Winter Outdoor wedding can be complicated, but it’s possible to plan. If your mind is set, plan your special occasion the way you always envisioned—frosty weather and lots of snowflakes! Here are four ideas to ensure your guests have a blast in your wintery wonderland.

1. Inform Your Guests Early

If you’re planning a winter wedding in an outdoor venue, make sure you let your guests know your plans beforehand. Make suggestions for clothing and include a list of accommodations you’ll be providing (i.e. hot cocoa, blankets, and gloves).

2. Dress Appropriately

Clearly, the frigid weather will play a part in your choice of attire. The same goes for the celebration. Short, sleeveless dresses are likely out. It’s a wiser bet to select longer gowns that provide extra protection from the blowing winds. It may also be a bright idea to give the female guests matching shawls. Continue Reading →

Are you set on having an outdoor wedding but are unsure where to begin? If you want your special day to be themed, it’s a good idea to begin there. Once you have your outdoor wedding theme decided, factors like flowers, decorations, invitations, attire, and the cake become far easier to determine. To get started, here are five terrific outdoor wedding themes to consider.

1. Rustic 

Love the outdoors? If you selected an outdoor venue, it’s likely the answer is yes. A rustic wedding theme may be just what you’re seeking. By incorporating nature and outdoor-inspired decorations, you make a grandiose statement on your big day and look extravagant while doing it!

2. Vintage

Like all things old? Then a vintage wedding theme may be ideal for your upcoming ceremony and reception. Vintage weddings typically begin with the bridal gown, so if you’ve got your eyes set on an older fashion or family heirloom, you’re well on your way! Continue Reading →

Are you and your significant other planning an outdoor wedding? For more comfortable weather, many couples schedule their ceremonies and receptions after sundown. Not only does this help the guests stay cool, but it also provides a terrific opportunity for lighted decorations. Haven’t given lighting much thought yet? Here are five outdoor wedding lighting ideas to consider.

1. Candle or Luminary Walkways

Every outdoor venue is different, but it’s likely that there will be a walkway of some sort. One way to awe guests as they arrive is to literally light the way to their seats and reception area with candles or luminaries. If your ceremony takes place in the evening, think about placing similar lights along the aisle.

2. Hanging Lanterns

If you prefer the look of hanging lights, you can aim for lanterns strung up in the tree branches or canopy top. Choose either a structured or sporadic hanging pattern that suit your preferences.

3. Wrapped Trees

Are there trees scattered around the venue? Consider wrapping strings of white lights around the base and lower branches. This has a stunning ambiance that lights up the reception area. Continue Reading →

Your wedding venue is more than the place where you’ll get married; it’s potentially where you’ll get ready to be married as well. While you want the setting for your ceremony and reception to be unforgettable, it’s also important that you and your bridesmaids are comfortable while making preparations. That’s why it’s important to ask your outdoor wedding venue the right questions about the bridal dressing room.

1. Is There a Place for You to Prepare?

It may surprise you how many venues don’t provide a bridal dressing room. If your chosen venue happens to be one of these, don’t get discouraged. You can always get ready at a separate location and relocate just before the ceremony.

2. Does the Bridal Dressing Room Have Air-Conditioning and Heat?

This may seem obvious, but some special occasion venues don’t provide heat and air in their dressing room. Be sure to ask this question before booking; otherwise, you and your bridesmaids may be in for a blistering hot or chillingly cold day.

Continue Reading →

An outdoor wedding arch is a really important focal piece for any wedding, but deciding on the perfect one for your ceremony can be overwhelming. There’s a lot to consider, and you want to be certain you get it right because it will appear in the background in the hundreds of photos that will be taken. Here are a few helpful tips to find the ideal arch for your outdoor wedding.

1. Keep the Setting in Mind

Where is the wedding taking place? It’s often best to select an arch that matches the venue’s theme. Seashells and sand don’t exactly fit with green grass and trees. Use the natural beauty of your venue to decide on an appropriate arch for your ceremony.

2. Decide on the Mood 

Think about the purpose your arch is intended to serve. Do you want your arch to be beautiful, but not so lavish that it becomes a distraction? Or do you want your arch to make a statement that leaves your guests in awe? It’s important to select an arch that fits your personality and sets the right tone for the occasion. Continue Reading →

There’s just something about the great outdoors that soothes the mind and soul. Not only can it provide a picturesque, natural backdrop for virtually any event, it’s also versatile with something for everyone. Aiming for an outdoor venue for your upcoming special occasion may be the perfect decision. Here are four excellent events to host outdoors:

1. Weddings

This one may be a no-brainer, but if you love being outside, choosing to have your wedding outdoors will add a little something extra to your big day. Aside from the potential for a breathtaking ceremony and reception, there will be some stunning photo opportunities!

2. Bridal Showers

Many people consider outdoor weddings, but outdoor venues are also ideal for bridal showers. Not only is there ample space for guests, but these venues offer an array of setup options to accommodate any theme. Continue Reading →

If you’ve been to an outdoor wedding, you know it’s breathtakingly beautiful and incredibly memorable for everyone involved. When you’re planning such an event, you may find there’s more to it than hoisting up a tent, arranging some chairs, and waiting for the guests to arrive. The outdoors can wreak havoc with your plans if you’re not prepared. Here are four outdoor wedding tips for your special day.

1. Think about Comfort

If you’re planning a winter wedding, speak with your venue about space heaters or consider bringing some of your own portable units. By contrast, if your wedding is set for July, you may want to provide guests with handheld fans and/or sunscreen as party favors.

2. Dress for the Occasion

Obviously, you’ll be dressed for your big day! But does your tux or gown really fit the season? It’s easy to select a season-appropriate wardrobe for your wedding party, but you can also use accessories to your advantage. Consider whether shawls, umbrellas, or gloves would add class and function to your attire. Continue Reading →