Using a Birdcage Card Holder - Wedding Reception Designed

With the spring season approaching, and the huge number of outdoor weddings being planned over the next few months, there are a lot of extremely adorable decorations available to the bride.  Weddings today are becoming cuter than ever before as new trends come into popularity.  There are things that people used to be worried about that aren’t a worry anymore - and other beautiful things that have come about because there used to be a worry.

 

At your wedding, you will find that a fairly large number of your guests don’t actually visit your registry, but rather bring you a card with some cash or a gift card stuffed inside.  For a lot of brides, this is actually preferred - that way you and your new husband can choose the exact items that you want in your home, and don’t have to risk people thinking that they know you well enough to pick something out that you will love.  The worry in the past has been that there is no place for cards to sit on the table.  The gift table might look cluttered if the cards are allowed to sit loosely across the table.  Some brides place a basic basket on the table intended for cards, but this doesn’t always match your theme.  If you are a spring bride, there is a good chance that your wedding will be decorated with gorgeous blooming flowers and other parts of nature.  With a birdcage card holder, wedding receptions have an added bit of vintage glamor - and a perfect place for cards to be placed throughout the celebration.

  

An additional benefit of using a birdcage card holder is that it locks.  You generally don’t have to worry about people stealing things off of your gift table - but this might be a concern for some brides.  When people see a lone card on the table, they can guess that there is either cash or a gift card inside, and that might be tempting to them.  Or if there is no worry for sticky fingers at your wedding, you may worry about small curious children swiping them off the gift table to play.  With a birdcage card holder, wedding reception cards and cash are locked safely away from any curious hands.  While you certainly don’t have to use the lock that generally comes with these bird cage card holders, it might make you feel better knowing that those things are locked up and that you hold the key.  

 

Take advantage of the gorgeous and functional decorations that are available to brides these days! This is a great time to get married because there is so much available to you - right at your fingertips.  Make your wedding as perfect as you have always wanted it to be! Visit Wedding Staples today to purchase a gift card holder for your special day.

Wedding Trend: Do-It-Yourself Invitations

The average couple spends over $650 on wedding invitations alone, which is quite an expense for crafty paper. Who wouldn’t rather spend some of that money on other things, like decorations, photography, or the honeymoon? With do-it-yourself invitations you can not only save money, but also create one-of-a-kind invitations that your guests will ogle over.

Do-it-yourself wedding invitations are significantly less costly than custom printed invitations, which can cost around $9 per invitation! DIY invitations cost around $1 each, a significant difference. Just imagine what you could use the extra money for…

In addition to being less expensive, DIY wedding invitations let you personalize the piece for a look that’s uniquely yours. Your custom invitations can include photos and wording that you choose, and you can print them with any font you want. For the scrapbooking bride, this can be a great opportunity to put your skills to use.

So you’re not crafty, you say? Do-it-yourself wedding invitation kits are easy to find, as well as easy-to use. Most come with or provide links to software that you can use to design your personalized invitations to your special day. These programs make creating beautiful designs simple, even for the artistically-challenged. These kits come complete with all the paper and envelopes you’ll need to print your very own wedding invitations and response cards.

Your invitations are a first-impression of sorts, and everyone knows the importance of first impressions. Your wedding invitations should accurately portray who you and your soon-to-be spouse are as individuals and as a couple. By creating your own invitations, you can use your own styles and preferences to send a message to your family and friends. DIY wedding invitations allow you to branch out from the strict regulations of many professional printers and express yourselves the way you want to be perceived. It’s your special day, and your invitations should be about you, not about what the stationery store says you have to print on them.

Visit Wedding Staples for a full selection of DIY Wedding Invitation Kits, Program Paper, and other accessories. Wedding Staples is a one-stop-shop for all your wedding planning needs. Browse our best-selling products and categories to find the perfect wedding décor today!

Wedding Tradition, Cake Toppers are the 'Cherry on Top'

Indisputably, the finishing touch on any wedding cake is the topper. This seemingly simple addition to your confectionary masterpiece is an essential part of not only your wedding cake but your wedding day as a whole.

The tradition of placing a decoration on top of the wedding cake started in the eighteenth century, when couples began putting wooden figurines on top of their cake to symbolize unflinching devotion to one another. These wooden figurines gave way to more modern plastic replicas of the bride and groom.

Today, figurines are still popular among many couples, but with many options out there, more and more people are choosing alternative cake toppers. The possibilities are nearly endless for what can function as your wedding cake topper. Your wedding should be focused on you and your new spouse, and your cake topper should reflect your styles and personalities, as well as your wedding theme.

There are no limitations on wedding cake toppers, however, there are some topper alternatives that are more popular than others. For example, a trend that is growing in popularity is using the couple’s new monogram as the cake topper, with simple or ornate letters stuck into the top tier of the cake.

Another popular idea is to set a lightweight vase on top of the cake, and use flowers to mirror those of the other centerpieces at the reception. It is important that your vase not be too heavy, or it may sink into the cake!

Photos make a popular cake topper as well. With photo cubes and unique frames, you can have a picture of you and your new spouse as the focal point on your cake.

With the many options available (these are just a few) there is no reason for your wedding cake to be boring! Remember that your cake topper, just like the whole day, is about more than just ribbons and bows, it’s about starting a new life with a person that you love.

Visit Wedding Staples for a full selection of alternative wedding cake toppers. Wedding Staples is a one-stop-shop for all your wedding planning needs--whether you’re the planner or the bride or both--Wedding Staples is the only online store you need to find the perfect wedding and reception decor and accessories.

Wedding Garters are More Than Accessories

Wedding garters, and subsequently the wedding garter toss, is a tradition that has been carried out for centuries, but its practices and rituals have differed through different civilizations and different times.

In ancient times it was believed that a bride’s clothing would bring good luck to anyone who got a hold of it. This became a little upsetting to the bride, since her guests would demolish her dress in order to have a piece of it, and its presumed fortune.

Obviously over time, this tradition began to change. Soon the good fortune, it was only associated with the bride’s garter, which guests would fight over. This too turned out to be dangerous, as the bride would often be knocked over by drunken male guests trying to remove her garter. In current times, only the groom removes the garter, and then tosses it to the unmarried male wedding guests.

Of course this all is based on the process, but the tradition itself is steeped in symbolism. It’s an iconic emblem towards the surrender of the bride’s virginal girdle to the groom, the tossing away of a groom’s single life and embracing a married life, good luck for the guest lucky enough to catch the garter.

But why is the garter often blue, you ask? In several ancient cultures, the color blue was considered symbolic of wealth and prosperity, so both the bride and groom would have a blue band around the bottom of their garments. As style and tradition have changed, so has this custom, so that now the garter is often blue.

The most common garter practices involve two garters: one that is tossed away, and another above it that is for the bride to keep as a memento. These garters are a valuable keepsake, and can be kept as a reminder of your special wedding day for years to come.

So, whether you wear a garter out of tradition, duty or simply for fun, know that it can be tailored to you and an extremely fun part of the reception.

Visit Wedding Staples to shop for a full selection of wedding garters in a variety colors and styles, many with the option of complimentary personalization. Wedding Staples is a one-stop-shop for all your wedding planning needs. Browse our best-selling products and categories to find the perfect decor and accessories for your wedding today!

How to Make a Bridal Veil

Making your own bridal veil is easier than you may think. To get started, you will need the following materials; all of these items can be found at an art supply store or a fabric shop.

1. Tulle in 108" width - Tulle is sometimes referred to as "bridal illusion". Tulle is recommended because it requires no finishing. You can use other fabric, but you'll have to finish the raw edges. The length of tulle needed depends on your height and the style of veil. Use the following guidelines to get the perfect length, keep in mind you may want to purchase extra: Shoulder Length ("blusher") 18" - 24", Waist Length 30", Fingertip Length 38" - 40", Floor Length ("chapel") 60" - 72", Cathedral Length 108" or longer.

2. Needle and Sturdy Thread - Make sure the thread color matches that of your tulle.

3. Fabric Scissors

4. Dressmaker's chalk or a soft pencil

5. Weighted objects such as books - These will be used to anchor the tulle while you work with it.

6. An Attachment - This is a mechanism such as a comb, clip or headband that will be used to secure the veil.

7. Adhesive - This can be either a hot glue gun, glue sticks or fabric`glue.

8. Decorative Elements - Items such as pearls, beads, sequins and crystal can be used to make your veil beautiful and one of a kind.

To get started on making your veil, lay the tulle on a clean, flat surface. Fold the tulle in half lengthwise, and place weighted objects along its edges to keep it still. Use the dressmaker's chalk trace a curve along the bottom edge of the tulle. Use the fabric shears to cut along the line you drew, then unfold the tulle.
Next take the needle and thread, and sew the top straight edge using a running stitch across the entire length. Once you have reached the other end and stitched across the full length of the top edge of your veil, you want to cinch the two outer edges together by pulling the thread out and pushing the tulle in. After the tulle is cinched, knot the open end of the thread securely and cut off the excess. This step is important because it will make the top of your veil small enough to fit securely on your attachment comb or headband. The next step is to glue or sew the top of your veil to the attachment mechanism.

The structure of your veil is now complete, the final step is to decorate it! This is your chance to be creative and customize your veil. Save leftover material from your dress, if you have alterations, to decorate your veil; this will allow you to match your veil to your dress. You might also want to use a ribbon, fabric or extra beading to cover the comb or headband on your veil to make it look polished.

For a wide selection of wedding ceremony accessories, be sure to visit Wedding Staples! Wedding Staples is a one-stop-shop for all your wedding planning needs. View our beautiful selection of bridesmaids gifts, cake toppers, ring pillows and unity candles, and find the perfect accents for your wedding today!

How to Address You Wedding Invitations

Addressing your wedding invitations can be a tedious and time consuming task. It is best to start the process about 3 months before your wedding date, and possibly earlier if you are using a calligrapher or have a guest list above 200. If you are not planning on using a calligrapher, it is appropriate to ask your bridal party for help with addressing your wedding invitations. This can be done in a party format, where you serve snacks and beverages. You can also ask your wedding consultant for help with this task.

There are typically 2 types of envelopes that need to be addressed in a wedding invitation, an outer envelope with a guest name(s) and full mailing address, and a smaller inner envelope with only the guest name(s). The inner envelope, which fits inside the outer envelope, remains unsealed and is positioned with the flap away from the person inserting. The inner envelope contains the wedding invitation and all of its enclosures facing the back flap.

The following details are a guide for addressing the inner and outer envelopes of your wedding invitations for your different guests.

Husband and Wife with the Same Surname

Inner Envelope
Mr. and Mrs. Smith

Outer Envelope
Mr. and Mrs. John Smith

Husband and Wife with Different Surnames

Inner Envelope
Ms. Johnson and Mr. Smith (wife's name first)

Outer Envelope (wife's name and title first)
Ms. Emily Johnson
Mr. John Smith

Husband and Wife with Children Under 16 Years of Age

Inner Envelope (list children in age order)
Mr. and Mrs. Smith
John, Richard, and Mary

Outer Envelope
Mr. and Mrs. John Smith

Single Woman of Any Age

Inner Envelope
Miss/Ms. Johnson

Outer Envelope
Miss/Ms. Emily Johnson

Single Woman with Guest

Inner Envelope
Miss/Ms. Johnson
Mr. Smith or "and Guest"

Outer Envelope
Miss/Ms. Emily Smith

Single Man

Inner Envelope
Mr. Smith

Outer Envelope
Mr. John Smith

Single Man with Guest


Inner Envelope
Mr. Smith
Miss/Ms. Johnson or "and Guest"

Outer Envelope
Mr. John Smith

Unmarried Couple Living Together

Inner Envelope (list names alphabetically)
Ms. Johnson and Mr. Smith

Outer Envelope
Ms. Emily Johnson
Mr. John Smith

Two Sisters Over 16 Years of Age

Inner Envelope
The Misses Johnson

Outer Envelope (list names in age order)
The Misses Emily and Elizabeth Johnson

Two Brothers Over 16 Years of Age

Inner Envelope
The Messrs. Smith

Outer Envelope (list names in age order)
The Messrs. John and Michael Smith

Brothers and Sisters Over 16 Years of Age

Inner Envelope (list girls in age order first, then boys in age order)
Mary, Jane, John and Richard

Outer Envelope (list girls first)
The Misses Smith
The Messrs. Smith

Widow

Inner Envelope
Mrs. Smith

Outer Envelope
Mrs. John Smith

Divorcee

Inner Envelope 
Mrs. Smith

Outer Envelope (list maiden name first, then former husband's surname)
Mrs. Johnson Smith

Visit Wedding Staples for a full selection of beautiful Do-It-Yourself Wedding Invitation Kits, Wedding Stationary, Wedding Gift Card Holders and other accessories for your wedding ceremony and reception! Wedding Staples is the only site you need to visit for all your wedding planning needs. Browse our product selection today!

Wedding Toasts and Selecting the Perfect Bride and Groom Wedding Champagne Glasses

Speeches and toasts are a key component of any wedding reception. Classic wedding toasts are often rousing, funny, thoughtful and sentimental. As you are planning the sequence of events at your wedding reception, keep in mind that you will want to allow time for at least one of the following toasts.

The Best Man's Toast: The best man's toast is a wedding staple. If you only want one speaker at your wedding, it should be the best man. The best man should try to make people laugh a little bit, and maybe even cry, as he talks about how much he loves the couple and adds some wise thoughts and hope for their future.

The Maid of Honor's Toast: It has never been traditional for the maid of honor to speak at a wedding, however, it's becoming increasingly common for both the best man and the maid of honor to offer a toast. The maid of honor's toast is similar to that of the best man, but may include some unique anecdotes about the couple.

The Parents: If the bride's father pays for the wedding, as the host he should offer a brief toast to welcome everyone and thank them for attending. If both families contributed to the wedding expenses, both sets of parents may stand together as one of them offers a welcome on behalf of all of them. If the couple has paid for the wedding entirely, then they can give a welcome without toasting.

The Bride and Groom: This should be a brief speech, that allows the couple a chance to thank everyone for coming, and to thank their family and friends for their love and support.

Be sure to ask anyone you would like to speak at your wedding far in advanced. This will allow your speakers time to prepare their toasts and practice orating. You might also want to request that they bring a hard copy of their speech with them to your reception, so that each speaker has something to reference.

You will also want to invest in a nice pair of champagne glasses for your wedding reception. Bride and groom champagne glasses are a traditional part of most wedding celebrations. These glasses make wonderful keepsakes that can be used in anniversary celebrations for years to come. These are sometimes thought of basic and traditional, but modern bride and groom champagne glasses come in many styles and themes to provide the perfect accent to the rest of the wedding reception decor.

As you are preparing for your wedding day, be sure to visit Wedding Staples! Wedding Staples is a one-stop-shop for all your wedding planning needs. Whether you need a few last minute wedding gift table decorations or everything from bridesmaids gifts and cake toppers to ring pillows and unity candles, you'll find everything you need for your dream wedding in our selection.

Create the Perfect Website for Your Wedding

While creating a website for your wedding is not mandatory, in today's digital age it is a great way to keep your guests informed of details for your ceremony and reception. You also don't need to be a technical genius to create a wedding website; there are many web services, such as Wedding Wire, that will provide website templates and hosting for free.

Below is a summary of content to include in your wedding website; organizationally, each of these items can be on a separate page of your site.

Date and Time - Include a separate for the wedding ceremony and reception

Ceremony Location - Be sure to include a street address, directions, and any requests you may have for your guests. If your ceremony venue has a website, you might also want to include a link to it on your website.

Reception Location - Like the Ceremony Location page, be sure to include the full street address and directions to the Reception Location. If your reception venue has a website, add a link to the site on your wedding website. If your wedding ceremony and reception are at the same venue, you can combine the content in one web page. You can also inform guest of the attire for your wedding reception here.

Hotels and Accommodations - Most couples have out of town guests attend their weddings, however, it can be confusing for guest who don't know the city where the wedding is taking place. Help them out by posting travel details (i.e. how to get to your wedding by train, bus or plane), and which hotels are close by the wedding venues. If you have arranged for a group rate at a certain hotel, be sure to inform your guests here.

Bridal Registry - While it is not good etiquette to include details of your registry in your wedding invitation, your wedding website is the perfect place for it! Most retail sites have online registries where gift availability is current; be sure to include links to all the stores you are registered at here.

About The Bride and Groom - Personalization is always a nice touch. Consider including something about you and your partner, such as how you met. You may also want to include some photos of the two of you together.

Be sure not to include anything too personal in your wedding website. Remember it can be viewed not just by all your family and friends, but anyone in the world can access it.

The last thing to consider is that you need to find a way to inform your guests of the address of your website. You might not want to use social media to inform people of your wedding website, as it may reach too wide an audience and you can risk offending people who are not invited to your wedding. An easy alternative is to include the URL to your wedding website in either your Save the Date or as an insert in your Wedding Invitation.

Whether you are looking for beautiful Do-It-Yourself Wedding Invitation Kits, Save the Date Cards, or other Wedding Stationary, be sure to visit Wedding Staples today! Wedding Staples is a one-stop-shop for all your wedding planning needs. Browse our online selection today!

How to Make the Perfect Wedding Gift Card Holder

Having a gift card holder at your wedding reception is vital. Without one, you can be stuck carrying and keeping track of cards throughout your reception, or worst, you could risk losing your wedding gifts.
Gift card holders can take on many forms, but using an actual box is most common. If you chose to go that route, make sure to use a box that has a minimum depth of six inches. Remember, wedding cards tend to be large, and if you choose a box too shallow you can risk cards not fitting or overflowing from your card holder.

Another thing to consider is that you can easily make a gift card box to use at your wedding. Making your own gift card holder is not only inexpensive, but will allow you flexibility in color and design. Follow the below steps to make your own card box.

1. Find the right box - When choosing a box, consider color, shape and size. A craft store is a great place to look, since craft boxes can easily be transformed into a box for your wedding cards. When selecting a box color keep in mind that traditional white will always work, but you can also use a color that is in your wedding.

2. Measure a slit in the top of your box - To do this, first find the center of your box lid (if you are using a square or rectangular box trace 2 diagonal lines on the top of the box from opposite corners - the center will be where the lines intersect). Then measure a straight horizontal line that goes through the center of the box; this line should be 1 inch long, such that it is above the center by half an inch and below the center by half an inch. This 1 inch line represents the height of your slit. Now you can measure the length of the slit, by lining a ruler perpendicular to the width line you drew, and tracing a 6 inch line so that the center of your box lid hits in the middle and 3 inches are on either side of the center line. The final measuring step is simply extending the 1 inch height on either far end of the width line. This will allow you to easily draw a straight length line above and below the width. The final result will be a rectangular slit that is 1 inch in height by 6 inches in width that falls in the center of your box lid. Use the below diagram as a reference.

 
3. Cut the slit - Use a box cutter here for best results. Start by poking a hole with the box cutter in the center of your slit outline. Then slowly drag the box cutter to the edge being careful not to go outside the slit outline. Finally use the box cutter to trace the full outline of your slit.

4. Decorate your box - This is the fun part. You can be creative here, using wrapping paper, lace, ribbon, beading or sequins. These are items that can easily be found in either a craft shop or party supply store. A few details to consider when decorating:

• If you are using a gift box with a top and bottom, and want to decorate it with wrapping paper, you might want to wrap each part separately. This will allow you to easily dismantle the box after your wedding reception. 
• Whether you are wrapping your box or using another decoration, be sure to cover all the visible edges, making extra effort to ensure that the edges around the slit are not seen.
   

If you would rather not make a gift card holder or use a box, think creatively. Everyday items such as a vase with a wide opening or a simple silver tray can be used as gift card holder. If you are looking for something more unique, you can even use a birdcage card holder for your wedding reception.

If you are shopping for the perfect wedding gift card holder be sure to visit Wedding Staples! Wedding Staples offers a variety of wedding gift card holders at newly reduced prices! Wedding Staples is a one-stop-shop for all your wedding planning needs. Visit Wedding Staples to find everything for your wedding day!

How to Use a Unity Candle for Your Wedding Ceremony

There is no recorded history of when unity candles were first used in wedding ceremonies, but its use gained popularity in the mid to late 20th century. The unity candle was first used in wedding ceremonies when the bride and groom are of different religions, where the candle is symbolic of the unification of the bride and groom despite religious differences. In modern wedding ceremonies, it can also be symbolic of the bride and groom family's joining together in unity to become one family. Alternatively, some couples may use it to symbolize their love and commitment to each other, as their two lives become one.

A unity candle is a larger candle with a wide diameter, that is often decorated to match a wedding theme, or personalized with the names of the bride and groom. A complete set includes two tapers (or smaller candles) and a base for the unity candle.

Including the use of a unity candle during a wedding ceremony is simple, however you should talk to the person officiating your vows about it beforehand. Many religions do not allow the inclusion of a unity candle during the marriage sacrament. This is commonly the case with Christian religions, as the marriage ceremonies in Christian churches use their own symbolism.

To use a unity candle for your ceremony, first have the candle with base arranged on a table in front of the alter or space where the ceremony will be conducted. Depending on the base, the tapers should also be arranged on the tables. All candles should be unlit. At the beginning of wedding ceremony, a representative from both the bride and groom's side of the family should approach the table to each light one of the tapers. Later in the ceremony, often after the exchanging of rings and vows, the bride and groom will light the unity candle together, each using their family's respective tapers.

Over time, this tradition has taken on many other forms. Alternatively, the candle can be used to represent a blended family. This is typical when both the bride and groom have prior marriages and children, and they want to show the unity in their new combined family. In this case, the base candle is often personalized with the names of the bride and groom and each of their children. Another use of candles during a wedding ceremony is a memorial candle. This is used to symbolize the spirit of family members of the bride and groom who have passed on, but are remembered.

Be sure to visit Wedding Staples if you are looking for a unity candle to use in your wedding ceremony. Wedding Staples is a one-stop-shop for all your wedding planning needs. Wedding Staples offers a wide selection of unity candles, memorial candles, and other accessories to make your wedding day special. Browse our selection today!

How to Create the Perfect Scene for Your Outdoor Wedding Ceremony

Outdoor wedding ceremonies have gained popularity in recent years. Locations for outdoor weddings range from beaches, to mountaintops, to gardens. Once you have found the ideal location for your wedding, you need to determine if it is the right space for your wedding ceremony. When planning an outdoor wedding, consider the following.

1. Is the space large enough for the number of guests you are expecting? Also determine if there is enough space to set up chairs for your guests, a place to make an aisle, and also a spot for the ceremony to be conducted. You will need a personalized aisle runner for outdoor weddings to complete your wedding ceremony decor.  You can ask your guests to stand if you are planning a short ceremony and you are not expecting any elderly guests, or guests with disabilities.

2. Is there a spot on site you can use as a backup in case of rain or bad weather on your wedding day? If not, you might want to consider another location, or see if you can set up a tent at the site you have selected.

3. Is there any natural shade at the location you selected for your outdoor weeding? It is understood that most outdoor weddings take place during summer months, however you should be sensitive to the fact that your guests may have to endure hot weather conditions while you exchange vows. If you are set on a space without any shade, there are ways to work around it. You can offer a water bottle to each guest as they approach your ceremony site, or you can simply place a water bottle at the foot of each chair for your guests to enjoy. Another great idea is using a wedding program in the shape of a fan, rather than the traditional paper program.

4. What is the texture of the ground at your outdoor wedding location? If the ground is uneven or wobbly, you might need to consider installing a wood floor over the ground of your site to avoid any injury. You should also explicitly state the site of your wedding ceremony on your wedding invitation or save the date card. This will allow your guests to prepare ahead of time and dress accordingly.

5. Are there restroom facilities close by? Will they be easily accessible to your guests? If not, you should inform your guests ahead of time. You can do this by simply enclosing a pamphlet of your site with your wedding invitations. If your site does not have a pamphlet or website, consider creating your own to include with your invitation or on your wedding website.

6. Is parking easily accessible? If there is a long walk from the parking lot to the site of you wedding ceremony, you might want to consider an alternative location, especially if you are expecting elderly guests, or guests with disabilities.

7. Is there access to electricity at your location? This is important for two reasons: lighting and sound. If you are planning a daytime wedding ceremony, the former may not be relevant, however for an outdoor evening ceremony, you might want to line to aisle and ceremony area with lights. Another option here is to use battery operated candles to line the aisle. These are plastic and come in a votive, and can be used regardless of whether power is available. Do not use real candles! Someone could get hurt, and there is a chance they will not stay lit for the entire ceremony. Sound is also important. You want to ensure you can have microphone and speakers for your ceremony. This will ensure that all your guest can hear you exchange vows during your wedding ceremony, and also that the music you selected will be heard (if you use a live band for your ceremony they might require amps). Do not forget that you will need a minimum of 3 songs at your wedding ceremony, a prelude which will play as guests enter the ceremony area, a processional which will play when the bridesmaids and bride walk down the aisle and the recessional, which will play when the bride and groom are officially married and walking down the aisle after the ceremony is over.

Accessories will also be a key component in your outdoor wedding ceremony. Accessories are a great way to add a touch of elegance and personalization to any wedding. Whether you are looking for a personalized aisle runner for your outdoor wedding, or a complete set of beautiful coordinating wedding accessories, be sure to visit Wedding Staples! Wedding Staples is a one-stop-shop for all your wedding planning needs, visit WeddingStaples.com today!

How to Make a Table Runner and Use a Table Runner As a Decorative Element in Your Wedding

Wedding table runners are a great way to add a touch of elegance and personalization to the decor at your wedding ceremony and reception. A table runner is a long narrow table linen. Its main purpose is to add an accent to table, and can be used over a table cloth or on a bare table. It should be centered perfectly on the table, so that the same amount of fabric hangs off either end of your table length wise, and that there is the same amount of space on either end of the table width wise.

A table runner can be used in many places through out your wedding. If you are having a religious ceremony, a runner can be used over the altar table. Also, if you have a table set up at the entrance to your wedding ceremony for programs or rice (or birdseed or bubbles to use when the ceremony is over), try decorating it with a runner. During your wedding reception, you can use a runner as decor on your wedding gift table. You may also want to use the same table runner as decor on either your dining tables or food service tables.

When choosing a table runner as part of your wedding decor, you should consider size and color. To determine the dimensions of the table runner you require, measure the width and length of a table you are using in your wedding. The length of your table runner should be the length of your table plus a 12 to 18 inch over hang on either side (some experts advise that a 15 inch over hang is perfect). The width of your table runner should be a minimum of 14 inches, and a maximum of one-third the width of your table. The color of your runner should either be a color used through out your wedding, or a color that blends in or accents other colors used in your existing decor.

Making a table runner is a fairly simple project, and can be a great way to cut costs in your wedding decorating budget. Start by shopping for fabric. Be sure to bring any color samples you are using in your wedding when you are browsing at a fabric store. Avoid any fabric textures that are sheer or delicate, you want your runner to stand out and be sturdy enough to endure a full day and night of use. After you have found the perfect fabric, calculate the number of yards needed based on your measurements of the table and the number of tables you are decorating. Be sure to add in an allowance to hem the fabric and to account for any cutting errors.

To finish the project at home, follow the below steps. You will need an iron, an ironing board, fabric scissors, pins and hem tape to get started.

1. Set up the ironing board and set the iron on to the setting that coordinates with the fabric you selected.

2. Measure out the dimensions for 1 table runner. Make sure to add an extra inch around the entire perimeter of the runner you originally measured. The extra fabric is needed to hem the runner. When measuring, stay as close to the fabric edge as possible; this will ensure you maximize the use of your fabric.

3. Cut the fabric based on your measurements in step 2.

4. Fold the fabric 1/2 inch around the edges, using a pin to secure the fold. Make sure your fold is on the backside of the fabric.

5. Iron the material flat around the edges and remove the pins.

6. Fold the fabric again 1/2 inch around the edges, in the same direction as done in step 4. Use pins to keep the fold in place.

7. Cut a piece of hem tape the same size of each edge of your runner.

8. Place the hem tape under one side of the fabric, under the folded edge. Iron the hem tape in place according to manufacturer's instructions.

9. Repeat step 8 for the other 3 sides of your runner.

If you are running short on time, consider purchasing a table runner for your wedding. Wedding Staples offers a variety of wedding table runners for sale, that can be customized by color and personalized. Wedding Staples is a one-stop-shop for all your wedding planning needs. Visit our online store today!

Wedding Gift Table Decorations

Decorating the gift table at your wedding reception can be easy and fun. To begin, make sure you have access to a table that can be used for wedding presents. Rectangular tables usually work better than round tables, because they can be pushed against a wall without disturbing the flow of your wedding reception. The size of the table you will need depends on the number of guests you are expecting. However, keep in mind that even if you are planning a large wedding, you might not receive a large number of gifts - many people ship presents before or after the wedding, and many guests will prefer to give a monetary gift. In most cases, a standard rectangular table size of 30 x 72 inches should work.

The next thing to consider is decor. When selecting elements for your wedding gift table make sure to be consistent with any themes or colors used in other places in your wedding; the items on the table should be cohesive with the overall mood of your wedding. You may also want to consider the following details in your wedding gift table decorations.

Table Linens: If you are using a certain color or patterned tablecloth for your wedding reception, you may want to rent or buy extra to use on your wedding gift table. Also consider a wedding table runner for a personalized touch.

Centerpieces: If you have extra centerpieces used on the dining tables at your wedding, you may want to add one to the gift table. Keep in mind, you may want to offset this centerpiece to the side of the table so that your guests have space to place their presents.

Framed Picture: A framed picture from your engagement is a nice alternative to a centerpiece for decorating your wedding gift table. A portrait will also add a personal element.

Guest Book: Keep a guest book towards the front of the table, so that all of your guests will be sure to sign it. Keep in mind, guest books have come a long way. One unique alternative is to make use a signature frame.

Gift Card Holder: Don't forget a gift card holder, or you can be stuck carrying around and keeping track of cards throughout the duration of your reception. A gift card holder can be a nice hat box a slit cut on the top, a simple silver tray or even a birdcage.

The final thing to consider is the placement of your wedding gift table. Make sure the table is in place where all of your guests will see and have access to it. A good place is either at the entrance to the cocktail hour or the reception.

Wedding Staples is a one-stop-shop for all your wedding planning needs. Visit WeddingStaples.com to find everything you need for the perfect wedding gift table decorations. Wedding Staples carries a wide variety of wedding table runners, centerpieces, guest books, and gift card holders. Browse our selection today!

Elements to Include in Your Wedding Invitation

Your Wedding Invitation is an important part of the wedding planning process, and is something you will want to prepare once you have set your wedding date and secured the location. If you are planning to have out of town guests at your wedding, or are planning a destination wedding, it is also best to send a save the date card 4 to 6 months prior to your wedding date. This will allow your guests plenty of make their travel arrangements, and will ensure more of your family and friends are in attendance. Your save the date card does not need more detail than the date, location (even a city and state will do), your wedding planning website (if applicable) and a note that a formal invitation will follow. Your formal wedding invitation should be sent about 8 weeks prior to your wedding, and you should request RSVP replies 3 weeks prior to your wedding date.

A formal wedding invitation should include the following elements:
- Wedding Response Cards: This will tell you who will and will not attend your wedding reception. The do not forget to include a stamped return address envelope with the response card. Note that the response card should be that of the person hosting the wedding.
- Directions and Maps: This is an important element, especially if you have out of town guests attending. Note that these should be printed individually and not photocopied. Most reception halls will have this information available to download off their website just be sure to double check the details for accuracy before you start printing copies.
- Accommodation Cards: Like the directions and maps, this is another important element if you are planning on inviting many out of town guests. You should include nearby airports, hotel options, area attractions and rental car agencies. If you have booked a block of rooms in a nearby hotel or you have reserved rental cars in their names, you would provide this information as well.
Optional elements for your wedding invitation include:
- Reception Cards: Reception cards should be used if you are planning on having different guest lists for your wedding ceremony and wedding reception. The reception card is used to include details about the wedding reception such as the time and venue.
- Website Links: Some couples have a wedding website to post details about their wedding. If you would like to include a website, a simple card with the web address can be included in the invitation.
Keep in mind that any extra inserts included in your invitation should be printed on a high quality paper that is the same thickness and color as your actual invitation if you do not have coordinating stationary in the same pattern.

Forget the printer, consider printing your own Wedding Invitation! Wedding Staples has a wide selection of DIY Wedding Invitation Kits in a variety of colors and themes. Kits include blank invitations with envelopes, response cards and coordinating envelopes, test printing sheets, instructions and template information. Find the perfect invitation for your wedding today!

How to Word the Perfect Wedding Invitation

There are a few different formats for wording a wedding invitation. The format you use for your wedding invitation is dictated by two things: who is hosting the wedding and the type of ceremony you are having.
The first lines of your wedding invitation, and thus the first names that your guests will read, should be the person or people hosting your wedding. Traditionally, this has been the brides parents, but today it is often both families or the couple themselves. This is followed by the request that your guests attend. The wording here is dictated by whether you are having a religious wedding ceremony or secular wedding ceremony. Therefore, there are four ways in which the first lines of your wedding invitation can be worded.

Style 1: One or both sets of parents are hosting a wedding with a religious ceremony. This should be worded as:

Mr. and Mrs. John Doe
request the honour of your presence
at the marriage of their daughter

or

Jane and John Doe
request the honour of your presence
at the marriage of their daughter

Note that the word "honour" is intentionally using the traditional British spelling. Also, the example is written assuming the bride's parents are hosting. The wording can be modified if the groom's family or both families together are hosting the wedding.

Style 2: The couple is hosting a wedding with a religious ceremony. This should be worded as:

Ms. Sarah Doe and Mr. Steven Smith
request the honour of your presence
at their marriage

or

Together with their families,
Sarah Doe and Steven Smith
request the honour of your presence
at their marriage

Style 3: One or both sets of parents are hosting a wedding with a secular or civil ceremony. This should be worded as:

Mr. and Mrs. John Doe
request the pleasure of your company
at the marriage of their daughter

or

Jane and John Doe
would be delighted for you to attend
the marriage of their daughter

Again, the example is written assuming the bride's parents are hosting. The wording can be modified if the groom's family or both families together are hosting the wedding.

Style 4: The couple is hosting a wedding with a secular or civil ceremony. This should be worded as:

Ms. Sarah Doe and Mr. Steven Smith
invite you to join them at the celebration of their marriage

or

Together with their families,
Sarah Doe and Steven Smith
invite you to join them at the celebration of their marriage

Rest assured that this is the most confusing part of wording a wedding invitation. If the bride and groom are not hosting the wedding and your invitation is modeled after Styles 1 and 3 above, the following lines should introduce the couple. Traditionally, this is done with the bride's first and middle name first, followed by the groom's title and full name, and should read:

Sarah Elizabeth
to
Mr. Steven Evan Smith

For a less formal wedding, feel free to use both full names, such that the invitation reads:

Sarah Doe
to
Steven Smith

The next step is to list the date and time of the wedding. Again, there is a traditional and informal way to do so. For a traditional wedding, etiquette dictates that the full date should be spelled out as follows:

Saturday, the thirteenth of November
two thousand and ten
at half after two o'clock in the afternoon

For a less formal wedding, the date and time can be written in the traditional manner, to read:

Saturday, November 13, 2010
at 2:30 p.m.

After the date and time, you should list the location of your wedding. This should include the name of the venue, the street address, city and state.

The final piece of information you include on your wedding invitation should be regarding your reception. If you have a different guest list for your wedding ceremony and reception, you should include the details of your reception on a reception card that is enclosed in the same envelope as the formal invitation. If you choose to include the reception information in the invitation, an example of the wording would be:

Reception to follow at the Plaza Hotel

If you prefer to have a reception card, the card should read:

Reception
8 o'clock
The Plaza Hotel
Fifth Avenue at Central Park South
New York, NY

In addition to the above, some couples opt to add the following details to their wedding invitations:
- A note on attire - Depending on the venue of your reception, you may have a dress code; if this is the case for your reception hall, be sure to add a simple line at the bottom of your invitation in a slightly smaller type face such as "Black tie".
- A request not to bring children - While this is generally understood, a note reading "Adult reception" can be printed on the bottom of your wedding invitation again in a smaller type face.
As a finishing touch, be sure to enclose a separate response card with self address stamped envelop for guests to R.S.V.P.

If you want to include additional information, such as directions and accommodations, it should be on a separate piece of stationary and enclosed with your formal invitation. Keep in mind it is generally bad etiquette to include any details about your wedding registry in your invitation. Your gift preferences can be posted on your wedding website, and you can include a separate card in your invitation with your website URL.

Now that you have learned how to write a wedding invitation, why not forget the printer and try it yourself! Printing your own invitations will save you money and time, DIY Invitation Kits make it easy with their user templates, and Wedding Staples offers a variety for every type of wedding. Get yours today!