A small detail: Weigh your invitations

Be sure to weigh your completed invitation before applying postage. You don't want your beautifully crafted envelopes returned to you. Keep in mind that if your invitation isn't a standard size you'll be charged more for postage.

Personalize your bridal bouquet

A simple ribbon around the stems of your bouquet will work, but you can add some extra flair by adding a vintage brooch, a couple pearl-studded pins or a simple strand of faux pearls for instant glamour. You could use lace from your mom's wedding veil, a locket with a photo of a loved one or a piece of heirloom jewelry. Your options are truly endless. *Photo courtesy of Square Root Designs.

Be my bridesmaid

The days of calling up a friend and asking them to be in your wedding seem to be fading fast. The new trend is sending elaborate packages or putting together neat surprises to request your friend's presence. Are you looking for something extra special to do?

I love the idea of sending a bridesmaid survival kit.

Some items you could include are:
Flip flops for when your feet get tired
Ear plugs for when you want to tune me out
Coffee for those late night projects
Bridesmaid tank top for the day of the wedding or the bachelorette party
Starburst for a burst of energy
Lifesavor because that's what you've been for me
Puzzle piece because you're an important part of the wedding and my life
Bandaids to mask all your boos boos from making invitations
Tissues in case you should cry
File if a nail should break
Calendar to keep us on track
Safety pins to hold your nerves

Include a note that says "I put everything in this handy pack so you'll know that this bride has got your back. Will you be my bridesmaid?" Or, you could stick with something more traditional like "You've been by my side through so much and I can't imagine you not being by my side when I get married. Will you be my bridesmaid?" *Photo courtesy of Better Life Bags.

Giving thanks for your attendants

Thanking your attendants should be at the top of your list. This group of individuals have likely helped you construct centerpieces, address invitations, package favors, plan showers and purchase wedding attire. Thank you gifts are typically passed out during the rehearsal dinner.

For your bridesmaids you could:

Plan a day at the spa. Treat everyone to a massage, facial or manicure and have lunch ordered in. You could set this up for a couple weeks before the wedding. *Photo courtesy of Etsy.

Instead of treating everyone equal why not give them a personalized goodie bag. Fill it with a few of their favorite things. *Photo courtesy of Jaylee Photography.

Give each one a monogrammed bathrobe that they can wear on the day of the wedding. *Photo courtesy of Etsy.

For the groomsmen you could:

Treat the guys to a day of golf, paintball or whatever they like to play or tickets to a local game. *Photo courtesy of Dinofa.

Personalized bobble heads are a unique gift that every man would love to display on their desk. *Photo courtesy of Bobblehead Customize.

Give them cufflinks that they can wear on the wedding day. *Photo courtesy of Mlive.

A small detail: Registering for sheets

Register for at least three sets of sheets. One for the bed, one for the linen closet and one for the hamper so you're not forced to do laundry when your sheets are dirty. *Photo courtesy of Valencia at Home

A small detail: Day-of gift for the groom

Are you looking for day-of gift for your groom? Find an old-fashioned photo booth and take four pictures holding up the words: Can't wait; to; marry; you! Then blow it up to fit a 16"x24" picture frame. It will look like a vintage piece of art. *Photo courtesy of Photography Cameras.

Off the cuff

Your groom can accessorize for the big day with selecting the perfect cufflinks. There are so many options available. There is something for the gamer, the hopeless romantic and the geek at heart.

Are you marrying a writer or someone with a love for the written word? These cufflinks offer the definition of forever. *Photo courtesy of Etsy.

Get a map of the city where you'll be tying the knot or the city where you met. *Photo courtesy of Mid South Bride.

Or, how about getting your initials and wedding date? *Photo courtesy of Etsy.

Golfers will love this option. *Photo courtesy of  Uncommon Goods.

These vintage game controllers are an awesome dud for the gamer. *Photo courtesy of E-Junkie.

*Top photo courtesy of Dhgate.

Cufflinks.com has lots of option to choose from.

A small detail: Bridesmaid totes

Write each bridesmaid's name on a cute bag that she can use to tote her primping essentials or order tote bags with their names printed on them. Nothing will get lost and clean up will be a snap. *Photo courtesy of Exclusively Weddings.

A small detail: Pay tribute to your parents

Ask your parents what their wedding songs were and play them at the beginning of your ceremony when people are arriving. Make a note about it in the program. *Photo courtesy of Ear Candy.

A small detail: Savor the moment

Carve out about 10 to 15 minutes to be alone after the ceremony. Sneak into the reception dining room for a preview before all your guests pour in. Or, use the time to drink a glass a champagne or give each other a small gift.*Photo courtesy of De Nueva Photography

Making the most of your honeymoon

8 ways to make the most of your honeymoon

1. Do research on your location. Find out the best places to visit, the local currency and the exchange rate, the local language and any local customs.
2. Tell everyone you're honeymooning -- your travel agent, hotel front desk staff, airlines, group leaders, etc. There could be "special treatment" or "extras" provided.
3. Before you leave, make two copies of your passport, travel documents, travel insurance policy and credit cards. Leave one copy safe at home and keep the other copy locked in your luggage or the hotel safe.
4. Leave a copy of your itinerary with maid of honor, best man or parent. Be sure to include the names of your hotels and any contact information along with your flight information.
5. Research if the water is drinkable and about the local cuisine to help you avoid sickness.
6. If you're traveling abroad write down the international numbers for credit cards and other important contacts because toll free numbers won't work.
7. Make sure you get any shots or immunizations that are necessary.
8. Determine where the closest medical facility is... in case of emergencies.

A cake for you & a cake for me

 

If you've been to a wedding in recent years then you'll know how much the cupcake craze has hit modern day weddings. Cupcakes are springing up at weddings across the country replacing the multiple layered traditional cakes. Many bakeries and guests alike with love the idea of an individual cupcake for everyone. Photo courtesy of Weddings by Lilly.

Mini cakes were popular for a number of years, but I think these have been replaced with the cupcake trend. Mini cakes were tedious because of the intricate details and decoration. And, transporting these mini sweets can be a feat. Photo courtesy of Pink Cake Box.

I've also seen cakes used for table numbers or centerpieces. With this method a one layer cake is placed on each guest table. While the bride and groom cut the cake... guests cut their own. Photo courtesy of For the Love of Beauty.

A small detail: Ordering your invitations

You should order your invitations at least six months before your wedding to give you plenty of time to assemble, address and get them in the mail. Remember that destination invitations must be sent out three months before the wedding.*Photo courtesy of B Wedding Invitations