Be Unique (It's All in the Details)

You’ll probably attend several weddings before you get to plan your own, so take note! Those weddings are an excellent resource of which you should make use: Remember the things that you thought were delightful, and emulate them. Recall the things that you felt weren’t as good as they should have been, and improve them. After thousands of weddings have taken place over thousands of years, there truly is “nothing new under the sun.” Your big day doesn’t need to be unique to be wonderful — it’s already special because it’s yours. So make it the best it can be by paying special attention to details.

Addison asks: “I know how much I disliked the dresses I wore when I was a bridesmaid. Can you offer an alternative?”

Dear Addison: You can honor your attendants by steering away from “regular” bridesmaids’ gowns and, instead, allowing them to select dresses in the same or matching colors. This way, they’ll be wearing something that suits each woman’s individual style — and they may actually be able to wear the gowns again after your wedding.

Jessie asks: “Is there an order for who picks a gown first? I want to pick my wedding gown, first, and then have everyone else pick a style that ‘matches’ mine.”

Dear Jessie: Traditionally, the bride gets to pick her gown first and it is her gown that sets the style for others to follow. The mother of the bride gets to selects her gown, next. The mother of the groom gets the next pick. If you can arrange for your mom and your mother-in-law to-be to go shopping together, that creates an opportunity for the two moms to get acquainted. The degree of formality and colors are the bride’s choice and the moms need to make their selections based on the bride’s wishes.

Judith asks: “I’m having my wedding on the beach, but I’m concerned about the wedding party and guests wearing high heels. Any suggestions?”

Dear Judith: Take the scare out of footwear by offering flip flops to everyone at the wedding. They may not be elegant, but they are certainly more comfortable!

Sherry asks: “I’ve found the gown of my dreams, but it’s too simple for the very formal wedding I am planning. Any suggestions?”

Dear Sherry: This is where an expert seamstress can help you to personalize your dress. Consult a professional, explain the look you want, and let her/him weave the magic!

Readers, have you done (or seen) anything particular at a wedding that made it unique? What kinds of details caught your eye? Let me know by writing in the comment box below. Or, submit your own questions to “The Wedding Guru” by e-mailing judy@hvmag.com.