The Bridal Expo Cornwall 2009

The Bridal Expo is a unique concept in Cornwall. The show is geared at the modern bride; but who is the "modern bride" anyway?

Well... here are a few tips for recognizing her: The modern bride is the bride who is taking control of her wedding (instead of handing the reigns over to her mother or mother-in-law); the modern bride is a do-it-yourselfer and has her hands in at least one creative project for her wedding; the modern bride is budget-conscious because she works and she's contributing a big chunk of her own money into her wedding; and the modern bride doesn't have time to mess around - she wants the best of everything she can afford and she has little time to find it all.

Do any of these descriptions sound like you?

This show is geared at helping brides set a path for their wedding to create the best possible event that they can with the resources at their disposal. The show boasts a roster of the Cornwall's top wedding vendors who you can interview and book at your leisure (this will cut back on much of the research time you would have spent on your wedding). But this isn't where the show is unique - the show is truly unique in it's presentations and seminars. This is where you'll have a chance to learn a bit of DIY info to really put you in the best possible shape to take on the planning ahead.

So keep your calendar open for Sunday, November 8 and ask a friend to keep her day free as well (or hey, you could take your fiance). Doors open at 12-noon.

For more information check out The Bridal Expo Website and Register today!

Cheers,

Sophie

Coverall Event Coordination

Escort Cards or Place Cards?

Some people use these terms interchangeably but there really is a difference between the two.

Escort cards are typically lined on a single table outside the dining room and are arranged in alphabetical order. You can use simple envelopes, with each guest's name on the outside and the table number on the inside (you could even add a nice note to each guest as an extra-special touch). You could also use any variation of pop-tent cards, or some other item or keepsake that ties in with the theme of the event - just make sure the guest's name is on there somewhere.

[Image from tm photography]

I LOVE this idea for an escort card set-up. Instead of cards, use individual votives with clear name labels. What a gorgeous effect!

The place card makes your guests' lives just a little bit easier by giving them an exact seating assignment. You can use these when you purposely want to sit couples together or apart, or if you want a particular person(s) facing the head table, etc. Again, you can use pop-tents or any other item for the place cards. You can even personalize the menu cards and use them as place cards instead.

It is also perfectly acceptable to use both types of cards if you wish. I would advise, however, to use at least one or the other. I have been asked whether using any type of assigned seating is even necessary; and in my personal opinion... yes, it is. It's easy enough to say "I just want my guests to interact and sit with whomever" but in reality you're adding a lot of undue stress. Not to mention that unless you've reserved a few tables you may have your parents sitting somewhere at the back of the room. The less thinking your guests have to do the better. If you take the time to sort out the seating beforehand your guests can focus on relaxing and enjoying the day.

Happy Planning!

Sophie

Coverall Event Coordination

Wedding Etiquette: Requesting Gifts & Cash

This topic is one that comes up with nearly every one of my clients. How do you go about letting your guests know what you want for your wedding gift? Many couples nowadays have been living together for some time before they get married. This means that when it comes to gifts they know what they want, what they need, and what they don’t. And it is often the case that they really don’t need anything at all… and so a cash gift is preferred to help pay for the wedding or perhaps a nice honeymoon.

There’s nothing wrong with knowing what you want… but there are a couple guidelines you should follow in ensuring that you get what you want without breaking some serious rules of etiquette. Here are two big tips to keep in mind:

1. Never inform your guests of your gift preferences yourself.

This is a big one… and it means “in any way, shape, or form”. When you register at some store they will offer you an invitation insert that will tell guests where you’re registered – don’t use these. If you do, you are telling your guests what you want. Don’t post an invitation to your wedding or shower on facebook indicating registered stores or any kind of gift preference (facebook is another matter altogether… but that’s a topic for a different post).

The proper way to let your guests know what you want is to tell your parents and your wedding party. They are the ones your guests will be most likely to ask and they can spread the word for you.

2. Prefer cash? Don’t register.

These days it’s really not uncommon for couples to prefer cash gifts over household odds and ends. So if you fit this category you’re certainly not alone. The best way to let your guests know about your preference for cash is to simply not register with any stores. This sends a clear message in a tasteful way.

However, remember that some people refuse to give cash as a gift and will bring a wrapped present (like it or not). So make sure to have a small gift table set up at the reception for those inevitable packages.

Many couples make mistakes when it comes to gifts… if you follow the guidelines above you’ll be fine.

Happy Planning!

Sophie

Coverall Event Coordination

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