Make Memories With Mother-Son dances
There is nothing quite like the love a mother has for her children. When it comes time for a son to get married, Mom has already seen him through plenty of milestone moments like birthdays, proms, graduations, and other achievements that showcased his transition from boy to man.
A wedding is a momentous occasion in a family’s life. During a wedding, couples opt to show their love and gratitude to their parents or guardians in many ways, including through traditional dances. The mother-son dance gives the groom an opportunity to honor the special woman in his life who saw him through thick and thin. Much like the father-daughter dance, the mother-son dance traditionally takes place during the reception after the newlyweds take their own first turn around the dance floor. However, this spotlight dance also can occur at other times during the festivities. Typically the groom chooses a song with the right sentiments, but the decision also can be a joint effort. There are no right or wrong answers when it comes to song selection. However, for those who need some inspiration, certain songs are tried-and-true options.
· “How Sweet It Is,” James Taylor
· “You Raise Me Up,” Josh Groban
· Time After Time,” Cyndi Lauper
· “Letter to My Mother,” Edwin McCain
· “Mother Like Mine,” The Band Perry
· “God Only Knows,” The Beach Boys
· “Beautiful Boy,” John Lennon
· “Wonderful Tonight,” Eric Clapton
· “The First Lady in My Life,” Paul Todd
· “Because You Loved Me,” Celine Dion
· “You’re My Best Friend,” Queen
· “Thank You Mom,” Good Charlotte
· “The Wind Beneath My Wings,” Bette Midler
· “Forever Young,” Rod Stewart
· “You’ll Be in My Heart,” Phil Collins
A Feast for the Eyes and Palette
This fall, expect to see wedding cakes that are more colorful than ever.
Departing from traditional white confections, couples are opting for bold and eye-catching cakes that serve as stunning focal points of their celebrations. From rich jewel tones to whimsical pastels inspired by the season’s palette, these colorful creations are redefining the art of wedding cake design and adding a touch of personality to every sweet moment of the day.
Kelsey Connely, owner of Downey Street Events, says 2024 wedding cakes are bigger and better than ever, becoming true conversation pieces at weddings. “Wedding cakes have been making a comeback after taking a backseat in the last few years to dessert displays and other unique types of dessert offerings. However, with many recent celebrity weddings showcasing gorgeous, multi-tiered wedding cakes … statement cakes that are still classically beautiful are definitely going to be a trend in 2024.”
FLOWERS
Dulcerella Cakes said vibrant-colored flowers on wedding cakes are becoming more and more popular in 2024, especially when framed by buttercream. The Knot concurs saying fresh flowers are going to make plenty of appearances to provide organic and abstract looks.
“Instead of meticulously placed clusters of blooms or elaborate flowers cascading down fondant tiers, the concept of this wedding cake trend is to use florals in a way that feels like they sprouted directly out of the cake,” wrote Samantha Iacia, editor at The Knot.
She does warn that you need to consult with your wedding cake baker and florist to choose food-safe flowers.
CELEBRATING THE SEASON
Fall’s kaleidoscope of colors are inspiring couples to infuse their wedding cakes with color. Deep burgundies, rustic oranges and golden yellows evoke the warmth and richness of autumn, while shades of emerald green and sapphire blue pay homage to the lush foliage that surrounds them.
For couples seeking a more whimsical and playful aesthetic, pastel hues and creative patterns are stealing the spotlight. Soft blush pinks, mint greens and lavender purples add a touch of romance and whimsy to wedding cakes, while playful patterns such as watercolor washes, marble swirls and geometric designs create visual interest and intrigue.
The colorful wedding cake trend opens up opportunity for personalization and self-expression. Couples are collaborating with talented cake designers to bring unique visions to life, sometimes by incorporating meaningful motifs, monograms or even handpainted scenes that reflect their love story.
Each cake becomes a work of art that tells a story, allowing couples
to share a piece of themselves with their loved ones in the sweetest way possible.
DECADENT FLAVORS AND TEXTURES
Beyond their striking appearance, colorful wedding cakes are delighting taste buds with decadent flavors and textures that complement the season. From spiced pumpkin and caramel apple to decadent chocolate and red velvet, couples are embracing rich and indulgent flavors that warm the soul and satisfy cravings. Meanwhile, textured buttercream finishes, edible gold leaf accents and cascading sugar flowers add depth and dimension to each slice, creating a sensory experience that is as delightful to behold as it is to taste.
Trending Bridesmaid Palettes
Autumn is a season full of color with changing leaves and falling seeds.
Many brides take inspiration from the colors around them as they plan their autumn weddings, embracing the rich and warm hues that define the season.
Wedding Shoppe tracks what colors are selling each season to identify top wedding color trends. For fall 2024, it invites people to embrace dark and warm colors, with some of their favorite standout colors that are stealing the spotlight being olive green, classic black and burnt orange.
OLIVE GREEN: EMBRACING NATURE’S PALETTE
Olive green exudes an earthy elegance that perfectly complements the natural beauty of autumn. Symbolizing
peace, harmony and growth, this versatile hue brings a sense of tranquility to any bridal party. Whether paired with rustic barnyard settings or lush outdoor venues, olive green bridesmaid dresses effortlessly blend with the autumn landscape, creating a seamless connection with nature.
This sophisticated shade flatters a variety of skin tones and can be styled with gold or copper accessories for an extra touch of warmth and luxury.
CLASSIC BLACK: TIMELESS SOPHISTICATION
While black may seem unconventional for a fall wedding, its timeless appeal and understated glamour make it a perennial favorite among brides. Contrary to popular belief, black bridesmaid dresses can enhance the cozy ambiance of an autumn affair, adding a touch of drama and sophistication to the bridal party ensemble.
Paired with metallic accents or rich jewel tones, black creates a striking contrast that highlights the season’s opulent beauty. Whether opting for sleek silhouettes or romantic lace details, black bridesmaid dresses exude effortless chicness that transcends trends.
“We mostly just love the sleek look of black bridesmaid dresses with lots of greenery, black ties for the groomsmen and a beautiful white wedding dress as the star of the show,” Wedding Shoppe wrote.
BURNT ORANGE: A TRIBUTE TO AUTUMN’S SPLENDOR
Embrace the fiery hues of fall foliage with burnt orange bridesmaid dresses that capture the essence of the season’s vibrant palette. Radiating warmth and vitality, this bold color infuses weddings with a sense of energy and excitement.
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Whether adorned with delicate floral patterns or embellished with metallic accents, burnt orange bridesmaid dresses evoke a sense of autumnal romance that is simply irresistible. Pair with rustic bouquets featuring sunflowers, dahlias and dried foliage for a cohesive look that celebrates the beauty of nature in all its glory.
Wedding Shoppe recommends pairing the burnt orange bridesmaid dresses with navy groomsmen suits.
WELCOMING THE WARMTH OF FALL
Incorporating these trending bridesmaid dress colors into your autumn wedding palette is a surefire way to create a memorable and visually stunning celebration. Whether you opt for the earthy allure of olive green, the timeless sophistication of classic black, or the vibrant splendor of burnt orange, each hue offers its own unique charm and elegance.
The Tradition Behind Bridal Veils
Though couples can plan wedding ceremonies and receptions how they see fit, many weddings are steeped in tradition, some of which may be more subtle than others. One longstanding wedding tradition revolves around a bride’s attire. Historians differ regarding the origins of the bridal veil, but some trace this tradition all the way back to Ancient Greece. Others suggest bridal veils were first popularized within the Roman Empire by people who believed that the veil protected the bride from evil spirits as she walked down the aisle. Traditions surrounding bridal veils even differ within various faiths, so the veil may signify one thing at a Jewish wedding and something entirely different at a Christian ceremony. Veils also have long been seen by some as symbolic of purity. Despite their long-held position in wedding lore and tradition, veils are no longer seen as a must-have. Nor are brides who choose to wear a veil beholden to having it cover their face as they walk down the aisle. In fact, many modern brides now flip their veils over their head as they walk down the aisle en route to saying, “I do.” Regardless of how brides who opt for veils choose to wear them, there’s no denying the enduring popularity of this tradition.
Did you know?
Getting engaged is an exciting moment in the lives of a couple. One might think that excitement would lead to couples hurrying their way down the aisle to tie the knot, but studies have shown that couples spend a significant amount of time between getting engaged and saying, “I do.” According to The Knot 2021 Real Weddings Study, the average engagement length among couples in the United States is 16 months. Though those figures are likely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, which undoubtedly contributed to longer engagements as couples waited to get married until large gatherings were deemed safe, it’s worth noting that lengthy engagements are not specifically a COVID-related phenomenon. In fact, The Knot reports that the average length of engagement in 2019 was 14 months. Taking more time to get to know one another also seems to be a popular approach among modern couples, as The Knot Jewelry and Engagement Study found that three-quarters of all couples who wed in 2021 had dated for two or more years prior to getting engaged.
Honeymoon Registry
Many couples who are planning to get married have lived together during the engagement period or even longer. A Pew Research Center study found that about two-thirds of married adults who lived with their spouses before they were married say they saw cohabitation as a step toward marriage. According to Brandon Gaille Small Business & Marketing Advice, 65 percent of couples who get married live together at some point before their weddings. Individuals who live together must outfit their homes with furniture and other essentials, including kitchen supplies. That means that couples may already own traditional wedding registry gifts like kitchen and bath items and accessories. Brides- and grooms-to-be can think creatively when registering for gifts if they already have many of the items found on traditional registries. Target has partnered with HoneyFund, a free honeymoon registry and cash wedding gift registry, to allow couples to register for honeymoon travel and other experiences. Honeymoon registries can be great ways for couples who already own household items to simplify the process of gift-giving for their wedding guests.
Choosing Your Wedding Day Menu
French queen Marie Antoinette is credited with a phrase that loosely translates to “Let them eat cake.” Guests at a wedding certainly will have their chance to enjoy cake, but it’s likely that wedding planners will need to offer a bit more sustenance to guests than this confectionary creation to keep them happy.
Many things stand out as memorable on a wedding day: the dress, the music, the adorable children who trip up or do some sort of zany antics down the aisle, and the food. Guests often look forward to a wedding to wish a couple well in their new lives together, but also to enjoy a great meal. Couples should give careful consideration to their wedding reception menu so everyone ends the night with great memories and full bellies.
DECIDE ON THE TYPE OF SERVICE
Buffet, plated dinner, server-passed foods, or food stations are the options at couples’ disposal when planning reception dinners. The type of service often dictates the formality of the event. For example, a cocktail party where guests mingle and sample small bites throughout the night may be a more casual affair, while a plated multi-course meal is much more formal. Couples can decide which type of service fits their budgets and ideas of for the reception.
EXPAND YOUR OPTIONS
Largely gone are the days when guests select dishes on the R.S.V.P. months in advance and then are locked into their choices. Now guests have more options and flexibility, particularly because couples and catering venues offer greater variety. A buffet-style meal gives guests chances to sample various foods in one sitting. However, even if couples choose a plated meal, they can select packages that offer guests the greatest number of options. Be sure to include a vegetarian or vegan option, a fish option, and a standard beef or chicken option to appeal to most.
CONFIRM FOOD ALLERGIES OR SENSITIVITIES
It’s likely someone on the guest list will have a food allergy or sensitivity. Making sure there is no cross-contamination is a serious consideration for such guests. The person or persons should be consulted about what the person can and cannot eat, and then those requirements should be conveyed to the catering manager.
Certain people with food allergies are so leery about eating out that they may prefer to bring their own food to ensure it is safe. In this instance, ensure that the kitchen staff will be able to safely heat up or plate the food.
Food will likely be on the minds of wedding guests. Couples can ensure that their guests are satiated by making food a priority at their events.
How to Tame Wedding-Related Jitters
Nerves are to be expected when getting married. It is exciting to be engaged and realize you have met that special someone with whom you want to share the rest of your life. But anxiety may creep in as the big day draws closer.
A lot of planning goes into a wedding, and often the pressure that comes with trying to create the perfect day can overshadow feelings of love and excitement. That is when wedding jitters may crop up. Couples must recognize they’re not alone if they feel a little uneasy as their wedding day draws closer. However, there are ways you can address and tame jitters both before and during the wedding.
STEP AWAY FROM WEDDING-RELATED TASKS
Chances are you have spent months with the wedding on your brain. In fact, it likely has consumed your daily life. Take a day or two to do something unrelated to the wedding, whether you’re alone, with friends or with your future spouse. Attend a fun event, go out to dinner, queue up several movies for a night in, or take a small trip. Keep wedding details out of the picture while you’re enjoying yourself.
FORGET ABOUT BEING PERFECT
Wedding jitters often stem from being nervous about everything going to plan. You may put undue pressure on yourself to ensure everything is perfect. But perfection is impossible, and the sooner you accept that a thing or two will likely not work out, the less stressed you may feel. You’ll be surrounded by family and friends who will help you roll with the punches, whether that’s a torn hemline or a missing buffet item. Guests are here to celebrate you, not pass judgment.
DISCUSS LARGE CHANGES TO COME
Some couples feel jittery because they haven’t spoken about all of the changes ahead. These can include relocation, merging of finances and whether or not children are in your future, among other things. Stress can be tamed if you take a break from wedding planning and discuss these important topics.
LEARN RELAXATION TECHNIQUES
Learning to relax is important when dealing with anxiety. There are many different relaxation techniques to explore. Some include meditation, yoga, deep-tissue massage, exercise, or immersing yourself in a peaceful spot outdoors. Some people turn to reading or other hobbies to relax. Do not look to alcohol or medication as an outlet to alleviate stress.
TALK TO SOMEONE
If anxiety about the wedding is eating you up, consider speaking with a professional therapist or even a close friend or family member. Sometimes a new perspective is all you need to calm the jitters.
Nervousness when planning a wedding is understandable. However, couples can take steps to tame jitters so they enjoy all that goes into tying the knot.
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