Eastern Jackson County Wedding Guide 2019

SATURDAY, MARCH 2, 2019 - THE 2019 EASTERN JACKSON COUNTY WEDDING GUIDE

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Saturday, March 2, 2019

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THE 2019 EASTERN JACKSON COUNTY WEDDING GUIDE - SATURDAY, MARCH 2, 2019

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SATURDAY, MARCH 2, 2019 - THE 2019 EASTERN JACKSON COUNTY WEDDING GUIDE

Table of Contents

Wedding Expressions by Geri................................Page 2 What to Know About Ring Insurance................ Page 4 Kelly’s Posies Floral Shop................................... Page 4 The Luxor KC Party Bus Experience................... Page 4 What’s Trending in Bridal Flowers................... Page 5 Attendant Gift Ideas.....................................Page 6 & 7 Nadler’s Catering................................................ Page 7 Adam’s Mark Hotel & Conference Center.......... Page 7 Lace & Grace - On-Trend Gowns.................... Page 8-9 Picture Perfect.................................................. Page 10 Wedding Party Expenses.................................. Page 11 What the Smart Groom is Wearing.................. Page 12 Bridal Suite Essentials..................................... Page 13 Modern Wedding Traditions........................... Page 14 Southern Kitchen.............................................. Page 15 Blue Springs Golf Course/Great Life Golf......... Page 16

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THE 2019 EASTERN JACKSON COUNTY WEDDING GUIDE - SATURDAY, MARCH 2, 2019

What to know about ring insurance

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

CONTACT US Phone: 816-254-8600 ADVERTISING displayads@examiner.net The 2019 Eastern Jackson County Wedding Guide is created annually by GateHouse Media LLC, and is distributed with various newspapers across the country and by King Features. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is strictly prohibited. Opinions expressed in the publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of the management of the publication.

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hen you start rocking a ring on your left hand, the first thing you think about probably isn’t insurance, but an engagement ring is one of the most important and valuable items a person owns.

Most often consumers “are truly not informed of the implications of their engagement ring not being properly insured,” said Tyler Krowiorz, brand marketing manager at Jewelers Mutual Insurance Group. The average value of an engagement ring is $5,700, according to a 2017 The Knot survey.

“It makes sense to do due diligence around insurance options for that new engagement ring before making a decision,” Krowiorz said. “It’s worn every day, everywhere. And

the bride-to-be may not be used to wearing a ring. So the chances of it getting lost or damaged during day-to-day activities as seemingly benign as washing your hands, going to the gym or removing gloves

in cold weather are quite high.”

Policies vary from carrier to carrier, but an engagement ring is usually covered under a standard homeowners insurance or renters policy.

“However, the limits are what becomes important here,” Krowiorz said.

The standard limit ranges between $1,500 and $2,500.

“That means if your ring is over that value, and you lose it, you’ll be responsible for the balance out of pocket if you want to replace it,” Krowiorz said.

One option is to add a “floater” or “rider” to your policy that provides additional coverage specific to the ring and its amount, Krowiorz said.

The danger is if you make a claim on a lost, damaged or stolen ring, it could raise your rates, he said.

“An additional option would be insuring your engagement ring with a carrier who specializes in jewelry. This ensures you’re getting comprehensive coverage specific to your piece that would cover you against loss, theft, damage and mysterious disappearance,” Krowiorz said.

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What’s trending in bridal flowers

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By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

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hen it comes to wedding floral trends, engaged couples are making up their own traditions with everything from more-organic bouquets to floral statement walls.

“Bouquets have come a long way, and now people are choosing to go bigger with more elaborate flowers and bouquets that are so large they almost cover the whole dress,” said Audra Danzak, owner of A Garden Floral in Las Vegas.

“With their own personal style, brides can throw tradition to the wind.”

On the other hand, some brides are taking a note from the smaller bouquet Meghan Markle carried as she married England’s Prince Harry, said Diane Joyal, owner and head floral designer at Bowerbird Flowers in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

“Bouquets have evolved from tightly bound to a more organic free-flowing style featuring greenery,” said Danielle Gonzalez, spokeswoman for Blooms by the Box, an online wholesaler of wedding flowers.

“Dahlias and ranunculus are both on the rise, and with good reason. Dahlias come in wide variety of colors, from vibrant solids to a softer pastel, which makes them universally popular no matter your color palette. Ranunculus adds whimsy and romance with their paper-thin petals.”

Greenery and arches Something on-trend right now is bouquets with only greenery as opposed to flowers, said Samantha Rodgers, in-house florist for Vegas Weddings in downtown Las Vegas.

“Everyone is looking for oversized, boho-style bouquets with loose arrangements. When it comes to details, lace ribbon is the most popular and on every bride’s must list,” she said.

“When it comes to color palettes, pastels

have returned in place of blush. I’m seeing floral designers using a range of pastel colors to create a soft, but impactful, painted effect in bouquets,” Joyal said.

Also of-the-moment is fern greenery in garlands, bouquets and boutonnieres, and to add texture to any tablescape, Gonzalez said.

“Wreaths are a perennial favorite, but now they are coming at us in an unexpected way: Think mini wreath boutonnieres for the guys,” she said.

Circles are a symbol of eternal love, and a ring or hoop of flowers brings this message to life.

“If you truly want to make a statement, this is the pièce de resistance. A ring or arch of flowers makes a beautiful focal point, a great conversation starter and a photo backdrop everyone will be lining up for,” said Vito Russo, vice president and artistic director at Carl Alan Floral Artistry in Philadelphia.

“An archway dripping in layers of flowers and greenery, used for the ceremony and then moved to a reception space, is a wonderful way to create a photo op for your guests while getting more bang for your buck,” Joyal said.

“If you’re all about a statement wall, using tropical foliage in a living wall is something that will really impress.”

Pro tips • Don’t forget and order flowers at the last minute, Russo said. Florists and bridal experts recommend at least a month for basic bouquets, and up to nine months before the wedding for intricate, large-scale designs.

• Keep in mind what flowers will be in season so that you don’t break your budget. Ever-popular peonies can be sourced in fall and winter, but you will likely pay a premium, Gonzalez said.

• Be realistic about your budget. Do your research into floral designers and pick one whose work resonates with you, Joyal said.

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Anything goes

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THE 2019 EASTERN JACKSON COUNTY WEDDING GUIDE - SATURDAY, MARCH 2, 2019

Attendant

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

FREEPIK.COM

S gift ideas

tanding with you on your wedding day, attendants deserve your thanks and a thoughtful gift. Presents for bridesmaids and groomsmen don’t need to be expensive, but they should show a personal touch. Check out these ideas:

Briggs & Riley Express Toiletry Kit $55 Briggs-riley.com Whether they’re headed for a destination wedding or will use it for future travel, this unique toiletry kit has all the functionality needed. It features a spacious interior, wet and dry pockets and a hanging strap, with a unique cylindrical design to keep it compact. The round shape is convenient for packing purposes, and the kit is available in black or blue.

Tervis tumblers $16.99 Tervis.com Tervis is the perfect gift for your wedding attendants as they are reusable, insulated, unbreakable and come with a lifetime guarantee. These 16-ounce tumblers with lids are made in the USA. You can even have them personalized with names for your wedding party to add a more personal touch.

Marinella Fringe Drop Earrings $42 Baublebar.com Enhance the impact of her look with these trendy fringe earrings.

This collectable pair features a glint of gold to immediately elevate everything from favorite denim to a little black dress.

Pretty Plum Sugar robe $68 Plumprettysugar.com The Romantic Soul flutter robe by Pretty Plum Sugar is fun, flirty and so feminine. It features ruffle edging along each sleeve hem as well as along the bottom edge of the robe.

A little sash wraps around and ties the robe closed.

Jet Men’s Grooming Kit $35 Jet.com From great-smelling cologne to ultra-hydrating skin care, up your groomsmen’s grooming game with this kit that is valued at over $70. Kit includes: V76 energizing shampoo and detox bar soap, Bevel priming oil, The Art of Shaving sandalwood shave cream, Brickell face moisturizer and Eight & Bob The Original cologne for men.

SATURDAY, MARCH 2, 2019 - THE 2019 EASTERN JACKSON COUNTY WEDDING GUIDE

Chamilia Stained Glass earrings

Mitsuko pearls set $79 Stauer.com Fashion comes and goes, but no jewelry box is complete without a classy strand of white pearls. This set that includes a 26-inch necklace, 7.5-inch bracelet and drop earrings will add instant sophistication to any occasion. The complete set of organic orbs is hand-strung and double-knotted to keep every precious pearl secure.

$50 chamilia.com Chamilla, a Swarovski company, offers a Mother’s Day collection around the themes of nature, family and beauty. Like the sun coming through a stained glass window, these earrings feature four fuchsia marquis-shaped Swarovski crystals set in a quatrefoil pattern with yellow gold electroplating. Post earrings with butterfly clutch.

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THE 2019 EASTERN JACKSON COUNTY WEDDING GUIDE - SATURDAY, MARCH 2, 2019

Lace

&

On-trend gowns reflect a bride’s perso

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

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PHOTOS: MASATO ONODA, COURTESY WATTERS BRIDAL

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rides should embody their personal best on their wedding day, whether that means taking the royal route in a princess-worthy ball gown or wearing a trendy jumpsuit or something with a touch of color.

“Brides are now getting their inspiration from a variety of places, everywhere from celebrity weddings to traditional magazines,” said Cassandra Sethi, New York City personal stylist and founder of Next Level Wardrobe. Pinterest and Instagram are major sources of inspiration, said Sethi, who offers personalized wedding styling services from engagement shoots to the big day and brunch after.

Embellishments and accessories Options abound in gown styles, from conventional to fashion-forward.

“While weddings are an exciting time in one’s life and a major moment, it can be a nod to traditions within their culture and family,” Sethi said. “They may choose to wear traditional outfits from their culture and do traditional religious ceremonies.

For those brides that want to be more fashion-forward, I noticed that they usually experiment with incorporating some color and/or choose a design that may not be as traditional, such as cutouts, 3-D applique and super-intricate beadwork.”

Designers are going bold w Sethi said.

“The 3-D applique is a deta your gown stand out. It is als incorporate additional colors into your gown,” she said.

Gold, pink, mauve and lave bridal colors, but maybe tha so good.

“I advise for brides that wa somehow to think about how do. Some want full-on color touch of it. What’s most imp amazing in whatever they ch Beautiful bows are on tren “From small, large, multip out there,” Sethi said.

Sequins add sparkle and a f traditional white dress.

“My wedding gown was all outdoor wedding and was the bling for me. I was also (pleas cover that it was very lightwe feel weighed down as I greete for dinner or danced the nigh Intricate lace and beading c the next level.

“Berta Bridal is the top exam falls within this world. Their stunning and for the woman w

grace

SATURDAY, MARCH 2, 2019 - THE 2019 EASTERN JACKSON COUNTY WEDDING GUIDE

onality, from traditional to daring

with embellishments,

ail that will really make so a great way to s or metallics

ender may not seem like at’s why they look

ant to incorporate color w much they want to and some just want a portant is that they feel hoose,” Sethi said. nd. ple — you name it, it is

fun twist on the

l-white sequin for my e perfect amount of santly) surprised to diseight to wear so it didn’t ed guests, sat down ht away,” Sethi said. can take a gown to

mple of a designer that gowns are absolutely who wants to create

an unforgettable look through intricate beading details and interesting lacework,” Sethi said.

Capes are giving wedding gowns a regal vibe, and the longer the better.

“The cape look is more modern and has an edge to it. Capes can also serve as an alternative to a veil and adds dimension to your gown,” Sethi said.

Gown alternatives Some modern brides are looking for an alternative to tradition when it comes the wedding and their gowns, but Sethi advises first considering the season and context.

“I would highly recommend a jumpsuit or pantsuit when in doubt about what to wear,” she said. These are comfortable and look elegant and sophisticated on many body types, Sethi said. Plus, it’s a great trend if you have multiple wedding events and want to switch up your looks throughout, and better for a destination wedding from a packing perspective, she said.

“At the end of the day, this is your special day along with your partner’s. It is important to feel beautiful, comfortable and authentic in whatever you decide to wear,” Sethi said. “Also, remember that there will most likely be a lot of video and photos taken, so it is worthwhile to make sure every little detail is taken care of, from your clothing, coordination to your partner, hair, makeup and everything in between.”

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10 THE 2019 EASTERN JACKSON COUNTY WEDDING GUIDE - SATURDAY, MARCH 2, 2019

mashed together and can be looped forward or backward into a two- or three-second clip that can be shared on social media or by email or text.

In the same vein but opposite direction, slow-motion photo booths can dramatically capture signature wedding elements such as a champagne pop or a crowded dance floor.

Picture perfect Photo booths offer more options than ever

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

“For example, we recently worked with two unique photo booths, one a super-cute trailer and the other a vintage Volkswagen bus. This unique twist on the photo booth has definitely helped it stay current and keep guests excited for something a little different.”

Stephanie Brown

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n the age of selfies and Instagram, where almost every guest has the ability to take and share digital pictures, photo booths continue to be a popular addition to weddings.

“Photo booths are guest entertainment,” said photojournalist Dave Tamez, owner of Snap Me Crazy Photo Booths in Edmond, Oklahoma. “Not everyone likes to dance, but when they see a photo booth people of all ages get in line. And usually they don’t mind waiting. It breaks the ice and gets people talking and mingling.”

The traditional photo booth is still a novelty, Tamez said.

“With selfies and Facebook, people just don’t print pictures anymore,” he said.

A 2-by-6-inch strip or postcard-sized photo printout is so old it almost seems like a fresh idea.

“People really like to bring them home, put them up on the fridge or on their desk at work. Not only is it fun, it’s a great keepsake of the day,” Tamez said.

Video enhancements Photo booths have become an integral part of weddings, but they’re not simply four-walled booths where guests can duck in for a few shots and a keepsake strip of photos to take home.

“Besides static photos, GIFs and boomerangs have become very popular. These videos can be projected onto walls, or shared via social media with the wedding’s hashtag,” said Brooklyn, New York-based wedding photographer Diana Zapata of Bluespark Photography.

Fun and shareable on social media, animated photo booth creations offer guests something a little different.

More of an investment for photo booth operators, these upscale booths have a camera or cameras that take a burst of photos, Tamez said. The images are

Props and keepsakes Another alternative to the nostalgic photo booth is one that doubles as a photo op.

“For example, we recently worked with two unique photo booths, one a super-cute trailer and the other a vintage Volkswagen bus. This unique twist on the photo booth has definitely helped it stay current and keep guests excited for something a little different,” said Stephanie Brown, owner of Off the Beaten Path, a full-service wedding/event planning company with in-house photography services in Napa, California.

The classic photo booth can also serve as a scrapbook station. A double of each photo is printed, then compiled into a keepsake for the bride and groom, Tamez said.

An attendant can even ask guests to sign or comment on the pages to make it more personalized, he said.

Photo booths can even serve as the distribution point for a couple’s wedding favors.

“As guest pick up favors they can stop in at the photo booth and use the favors as props. Unique favors like custom sunglasses can be a unifying factor in your photo booth images to bring out your color scheme or theme,” said Rachel Stephens of Totally Promotional, an online retailer and manufacturer of custom printed promotional products and wedding favors.

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Wedding party expenses What to consider, when to communicate

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

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eing an attendant is not only a big responsibility, it can be a huge expense.

“Finances are always a touchy topic, so it’s important to have conversations about expectations early on to avoid any tension or surprises between to-be-weds and their wedding parties,” said Maggie Seaver, assistant digital editor at The Knot.

Wedding party members spent an average of $928 on gifts, travel and accommodations, attire and accessories if they traveled for a wedding, according to The Knot’s 2018 Wedding Guest Study.

“It’s no surprise that figuring out where that money is coming from can be stressful and a sensitive topic among members of the wedding party,” Seaver said. “While being a wedding attendant can be an expensive honor, couples typically are very understanding and sensitive to the financial constraints of being in a wedding party, especially if they’ve had the honor of being in a wedding party themselves.”

Discuss expectations Most couples choose wedding details that are budget-friendly or give wedding party members the option to participate in an expensive hair and makeup treatment or destination bachelor or bachelorette party, Seaver said.

“If they don’t, then the wedding party members can kindly discuss their thoughts and potential solutions with the couple directly,” she said.

Who pays for what is a common cause of confusion. Agreeing to be in the wedding party means a person is agreeing to some level of financial commitment, often including costs for attire, travel (if needed) and a gift for the newlyweds.

“In fact, wedding attendants often spend much more on the wedding gift than other guests. Additionally, members of the wedding party are also oftentimes expected to cover the costs of bridal showers, bachelor and bachelorette parties,” Seaver said.

But every wedding and wedding party is unique.

“While some to-be-weds expect their wedding party to help plan various pre-wedding events like bridal showers and bachelor/bachelorette parties, and at times cover the costs of those events, others may be more laid-back with their wedding party’s involvement,” Seaver said. “We definitely encourage couples to maintain open lines of communication with their wedding party and discuss expectations for who is paying for what as early as possible.”

Typical costs Tension arises when the bride selects things such as dresses and jewelry that are on the pricier side, said certified wedding planner Kevin Dennis, owner of Fantasy Sound Event Services in Livermore, California.

Typical costs covered by an attendant include attire, shoes and accessories, Dennis said. The bride will often cover the bouquet and transportation on the wedding day, he said.

However, there are some blurred lines when it comes to who pays for what.

“Professional hair and makeup can be tricky. If it’s optional, then the bridesmaid can decide whether or not she wants to invest in it, and the bride will want to be upfront early about the costs. If the bride is requiring it, then she should foot the bill,” Dennis said.

Bachelorette parties have evolved with increased personalization and destination events, which raises the stakes financially, the experts said.

“If you’re concerned about the cost to be involved with being a member of the wedding party, you should be honest and upfront with the couple to-bewed about what you can commit to, both financially and with respect to your time,” Seaver said.

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What the

SMART GROOM

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

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hile all eyes tend to be on the bride, a groom’s style needs to be on point, too.

“While the bride will be stunning, the groom should feel just as special on his wedding. A well-tailored suit or tuxedo will surely turn some heads as well,” said Joseph Abboud, chief creative director at Men’s Wearhouse.

Start by thinking about what the ideal wedding looks like, said Brice Pattison, fashion director at The Black Tux, a suit rental company with store and online options.

“If the vision is formal, wear black tie. If not, wear a suit,” he said. “Once that is determined, then I would suggest considering set and setting — meaning rural versus urban, day versus evening, spring versus autumn — and opting for color, pattern and material that complements.

A simple rule of thumb I use is the more sunlight there is at the event, the lighter the color of suit.”

“While tuxedos and suits are the most popular attire for a groom, they don’t always have to be black,” Abboud agreed. “They can be navy, charcoal or light gray and are all equally

as elegant, but offer an unexpected twist.”

Non-tux options A suit is a great choice for a wedding.

“Dress it up by adding a vest or take a non-traditionalist approach by pairing it with a fun bow tie, a sweater or a pair of suspenders. This is the perfect choice for those who are looking for a more modern option,” Abboud said.

“We are also seeing a lot of mixing and matching with different patterns and texture, with beautiful dinner jackets on the red carpet.”

“If you can’t decide between tux or suit, there’s a third option that’s been gaining popularity in recent years,” said Chris Easter, co-founder of The Man Registry. “A tuxedo-suit hybrid is perfect for grooms who want a formal look but love the feel of a suit. This hybrid features aspects from each style, boasting satin on the lapels and cloth buttons down the front of the jacket.”

One big question to be answered is, rent or buy.

“Budget always plays a factor. It will be cheaper to rent, although you may get long-lasting value out of purchasing,” Easter said.

A well-tailored garment is the most important

PHOTO COURTESY THE BLACK TUX

is wearing

fashion trend, so consider having one custom made if possible, Abboud said.

Personalize it Men shouldn’t be afraid to stand out.

“We have seen more wedding couples opt for bolder outfits for the groom than in past years, such as wearing a rose shawl collar tuxedo,” Pattison said. “Additionally, more grooms are changing into a new dinner jacket from the wedding ceremony to the reception, which aligns with many brides changing their dresses for the reception.”

“My favorite way to add a dash of personality to a suit or tux is to accessorize the lapel,” Easter said. “Lapel decor can range from the basic boutonniere to a pin that represents the groom’s personality, interest or family. Think guitar, airplane, deer antlers, sports team insignias, etc. This is instant personality that’s subtle enough to not take over the look.”

Just don’t wait until the last minute.

“The groom should complete his suit or tuxedo fitting no later than 60 days prior to the wedding,” Abboud said.

SATURDAY, MARCH 2, 2019 - THE 2019 EASTERN JACKSON COUNTY WEDDING GUIDE

Bridal suite

essentials

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

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or the best wedding day, don’t leave anything to chance.

Stock the bridal suite with the essentials to be sure you look good, feel great and head to the altar relaxed and in style.

Pamper yourself pretty Freshen up quickly with express teeth whitening kits, essential oils and skin lotion, said Wendy Dahl, president and principal planner at Chic Productions, a wedding and event planning company with locations in Huntington Beach and Palm Desert, California.

“Be sure you are not in your gown when using any beauty product,” Dahl said.

An amenity kit with nail files, fashion tape, mints and any other type of item that wouldn’t typically be included with the use of the suite is also a great idea, Dahl said.

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Be ready for emergencies Items that can save the day are safety pins, heel protectors, shoe insoles, moleskin bandages for blisters, petroleum jelly for anything that rubs against your skin and baby powder to protect against chafed skin under tight gowns, Dahl said.

Go for less stress “If gowns have a lot of buttons down the back, bring a crochet hook and leave it for the couple at the end of the evening. A portable steamer is also a good idea to have on hand to get rid of any wrinkling that happened during transport,” Dahl said.

Have fun “I love when I see bridesmaids set up mimosa bars or champagne service. They bring everything from the champagne flutes and all of the drink ingredients to photoworthy trays and vintage props,” Dahl said.

One of her favorite ideas came from a bridesmaid who added flowers to the floral order to make the bridal suite super-girly.

“Music sets the tone in the room, so a portable speaker with a fun playlist is always a good idea. You can use music to calm down nerves or get everyone excited before you head out for the day,” she said.

Keep the energy up The wedding day can be so busy a bride may not even have time to eat, so set up a brunch to be served in the suite.

“Wraps and sandwiches work well because you don’t need plates. Cheese boards and charcuterie boards are also great to have on hand because they are easy to eat a little here or a little there,” Dahl said.

Work like a pro Beauty teams work in front of windows to create the best look in natural light, so power strips are always a great idea to allow more mobility in the room, as are directors chairs so you sit higher and closer to the stylist, Dahl said.

“If the room doesn’t have a full-length mirror, I’d request one to be brought in along with a rolling garment rack for all of the gowns,” she added.

Good advice “Never hang your gown on the sprinkler heads in the room. You could set off a fire alarm, and everything you brought with you will get soaked in water,” Dahl said.

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14 THE 2019 EASTERN JACKSON COUNTY WEDDING GUIDE - SATURDAY, MARCH 2, 2019

Something old, something new

Modern weddings blend traditions, personal touches

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

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“The first dance is a perennial favorite. It’s such a great way to start off the reception. You really can’t beat that initial excitement as the couple is introduced for the first time onto the dance floor.”

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Kylie Carlson, International Academy of Wedding & Event Planning

hen it comes to the special day, a wedding should be what the couple wants it to be, not what tradition requires.

Rather than doing things by the book, today’s brides and grooms tend to take their own individual needs and circumstances into account, said etiquette expert Lizzie Post, host of the Awesome Etiquette podcast and co-president of the Emily Post Institute.

“Do what makes sense to you,” Post said.

Couples are moving away from formal affairs to create weddings that truly represent who they are as a couple, said Kristen Maxwell Cooper, editor in chief of The Knot. Couples want to bring their personalities into the wedding and choose to tie the knot in nontraditional venues such as barns and farms, historic homes and wineries, museums and parks, according to the The Knot 2017 Real Wedding Study. Additionally, many are nodding to cultural and religious traditions and adding flavor with elements such as a Chinese tea ceremony or traditional Horah Jewish dance, The Knot survey found.

“The good news about wedding parties these days is that there are no rules,” said Kylie Carlson, owner and chief executive officer of the International Academy of Wedding & Event Planning.

Unique, but cohesive Having honor attendants of the opposite gender is no big deal, but they still need to coordinate.

“Couples should have whomever they want on ‘their side.’ Stick with a similar color palette, even if that means just elements for a tux or the dress,” Carlson said. “Make sure the level of formality is consistent with each of the members of the wedding party. Work with your florist so that the boutonnieres and

bouquets have complementary blooms.”

Mix-and-match attire is a nontraditional look couples are embracing. Focusing on a color palette will keep the wedding party look cohesive, Carlson said.

“Decide early on how much the hues should impact clothing selections. It may not make sense, for example, to have everyone dressed head-to-toe in teal, so instead, see if there are accessories that can be incorporated to complement one another,” she said.

Letting attendants choose their own outfits allows them to show off their personal style, but you’ll want to communicate the level of formality so everyone complements one another in that manner, Carlson said.

Traditional for a reason However, some traditional elements will never go out of style.

“The first dance is a perennial favorite.

It’s such a great way to start off the reception. You really can’t beat that initial excitement as the couple is introduced for the first time onto the dance floor,” Carlson said.

Registries are traditional, but an invitation should not include registry information or what gifts are wanted, Post said.

“The focus always should be on inviting guests to celebrate the event with you — not for an expectation of a gift,” she said.

“Honeyfunds” have been embraced by wedding guests because they want to give couples the gift of a vacation together or an activity, Post said.

“Experiential registry gifts are quite popular right now,” Carlson said. “Memberships to museums (art, science, etc.) are a great addition to any wedding registry. They typically last a full calendar year and include a number of perks, giving you plenty of excuses for a regular date night. We’re also seeing tickets to events, wine of the month clubs and gift certificates to have one’s house cleaned.”

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