Bride2BeUniversity

visit us::wedding world 2010

admin — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 16:03:00 +0000

If you’re in the St. Joseph/Benton Harbor area, you can come see us this Saturday, January 30th at the Wedding World bridal expo at Lake Michigan College. We’ll be presenting at 1:45 with some tricks to get your wedding planning on track, budget-saving tips, and an open Q+A session. You can also check out all of the booths and a fashion show that starts at 3:00. The show is open from 12:00-3:00 with the fashion show from 3-4:00 and admission is free! Stop by, we’d love to see you!

managing your budget

admin — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 01:44:44 +0000

(image source)

When planning weddings, I always have a budget to consider. Whether that budget be $15,000, $25,000, or $50,000, I have yet to meet a couple that doesn’t have some sort of pre-determined idea of their personal spending limit. Determining the amount you have to spend may be the easy part, but sticking to that magic number often poses a challenge once you become inundated with couture gowns, custom stationery, and every must-have wedding trinket under the sun. It’s easy to get carried away, and the longer you wait to set a budget, the more you will get pulled off track. So, first things first, sit down and determine how much you can spend. If parents will be contributing, ask them up front, and find out how much you can expect. You shouldn’t assume on a contribution unless you’ve already discussed it {trust me, you’ll be glad you did!}.

I read a great online article recently “Your Wedding Budget: 41 Ways to Save,” which offers great ways to trim your budget, and keep things on track.

Here are a few tips::

Time Is Money
The most important money-saving issue is time. And the less time you have, the more likely you are to make rash decisions and thus compromise your finances. Give yourselves enough time to shop around for the best vendor prices.

Keep it Simple
Forgo the personalized accents; napkins and matchbooks alone can cost several hundred dollars.

Consultants Cut Costs
Hire a wedding consultant. You will undoubtedly recoup his or her fee with the sound advice he or she can provide about getting more or better service for your money.

Limo Limit
Don’t get caught up in the idea that you need a wedding cavalcade to transport everyone to the reception. Limit the number of limos you use, or ask a friend with a vintage car to drive the two of you and book a mini bus or van to transport both the wedding party and your parents.

Learn More at Bride2Be 101!

fabulous frocks by lynn lugo

admin — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 01:34:52 +0000

If you’re looking for bridesmaids dresses with flair and style (not to mention the oodles of customization options) then check out the line of maids dresses by Lynn Lugo. Her custom dressmaker option allows you to choose your style, color, and extra options such as special hems, ruffles, several bows, and straps.

(the Custom Dressmaker, coutesty of Lynn Lugo.com)

I took a turn at designing my own custom creation, and here is what I came up with. It’s a strapless style in a shade called Autumn, with an Obi sash, and a flat hem trim. Not too bad for my first attempt at dress designing!
Lynn Lugo also offers some uber cute dresses that are a little less customizable (there are still an array of colors–and patterns!) but are still oh-so-cute!

(photo courtesy of Lynn Lugo.com)