By Samantha Iacia

Finding a wedding dress should be exciting, not stressful. Bookmark these wedding dress shopping tips to stay on track and prep for all your bridal appointments.

The search for your wedding dress is definitely one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning. From bridal Pinterest boards, trend reports, and Instagram saves, to shopping with your BFFs and trying on a wedding dress for the very first time, there are so many OMG moments that happen as you look for your perfect dress. Because this decision is also an incredibly crucial one, we’re helping you through the entire process with this guide to wedding dress shopping that covers the most important steps—and fills you in on the details you might not have thought about yet. So whether you’re in the process of creating your wedding dress budget, vetting the best bridal shops in your area, searching for money-saving tips, or wondering how the alterations process works, start here.    

Our guide to wedding dress shopping will help you say ‘I do’ to the gown you’ve always dreamed of.

When to buy your wedding dress

Waiting until the last minute to shop for your wedding dress isn’t what we’d recommend, period. Even if you find your wedding dress on your very first shopping trip, it can sometimes take up to six months for the dress to be ready (especially if it’s made-to-order), so it’s better to start shopping as soon as possible—ideally, at least a year before your wedding. You’ll also need to factor in time for alterations and finding the right accessories to match your gown. Our wedding dress shopping timeline breaks it all down, step-by-step.  

How to find a wedding dress shop

When you’re on the hunt for your wedding dress, it’s best to visit bridal shops that match your style, budget, and desired experience. The shop(s) you choose should not only carry the designers and types of dresses you want to try, but the staff should make you feel welcomed, relaxed, and excited to find your gown. To help you and your loved ones have the best possible experience, we’ve pulled together our go-to rules for finding the best bridal shops for you.

Wedding dress questions to ask a potential shop

Another way you can make sure you’re visiting the best bridal shops is by asking about their policies and offerings in advance. Questions like, ‘Which designers do you carry in-store?’ or ‘What are your payment plans like?’ will help you determine if a potential shop is the right fit—without requiring you to spend time visiting those that aren’t.  

What to do if you need a last-minute wedding dress

Step number one: Don’t panic. You might be pressed for time, but all hope is not lost! First, try calling bridal salons in your area to ask if they have any dresses that are available for a rush order. Sample sales are another option—this is when bridal shops sell dresses off the rack, which means you can take your purchase home the same day. If you’re not able to buy a dress locally, the next best thing is a trusted online wedding dress retailer, like David’s Bridal or BHLDN. 

How to save money on a wedding dress

Falling in love with a gown that’s out of your price range can feel like your worst nightmare come true. You try on the dress, it gives you all the feels, and then your stomach drops at the sight of that price tag (cue crying emoji). But there are several budgeting hacks you can follow to help avoid sticker shock AND find a gown that won’t break the bank, such as visiting trunk shows or limiting customizations. Here’s how to be smart with your wedding dress budget while also getting everything you’re looking for. 

Wedding dress fabrics

We’re betting you already know the basics—tulle, lace, etc.—but many popular wedding dress fabrics can seem surprisingly similar upon first glance. Fabric can play a big role in how your wedding dress looks, feels, and costs, so we suggest taking a few minutes to familiarize yourself with some of the most common options.   

Wedding dress necklines

Each type of wedding dress neckline offers a different look and varying level of coverage, so whatever you choose should ultimately be based on your personal preference and what makes you feel the most fabulous. Whether you want a plunging v-neckline, a romantic strapless sweetheart neckline, or a modern one-shoulder neckline, this glossary explains all of your options to help prep you for that first wedding dress appointment.    

Wedding dress silhouettes

Ahead of your bridal appointment, there are six wedding dress silhouettes we’d recommend learning. Not only will this help you convey what you’re looking for when you talk to your bridal consultant, but you can focus on dresses with the silhouette(s) that you think best reflects your overall wedding vision. One last thing: Even if you know you definitely want a specific silhouette, it’s important to be open-minded if your consultant recommends trying on a variety of others, just in case. You might be pleasantly surprised!  

The best wedding dresses for every body type

It’s true, not every dress will be the perfect fit—and that’s okay! What’s most important is finding a gown that makes you feel like a million bucks, regardless of what you or someone else thought you should wear based on your body type (remember to keep these body-positive tips in mind during your appointment). But whether you’re looking to elongate a petite frame, draw attention to your waist, or enhance your curves, there are some tried-and-true ways to do it—and you can start by trying on wedding dresses that are typically flattering for your body type. In the end, there’s no right or wrong, so consider this as your general starting point.  

Wedding dress shopping etiquette 

You’ve done your homework budgeting for your dress, bookmarking inspiration, and researching bridal shops. Now, it’s time to visit a salon and try on a wedding dress (finally, the fun stuff!). But before you agree to a spur-of-the-moment shopathon with your MOH, there are some basic wedding dress shopping etiquette rules we’d recommend following, especially if you’re bringing a group of friends or relatives along. For example, did you know that an appointment is required at almost all bridal salons? Yup—unlike those scenes in movies and television shows where the bride walks by a dress shop and spontaneously decides to go shopping with her friends, you’ll probably need to call ahead. These golden rules will ensure your dress shopping experience runs smoothly and remains drama-free for all parties involved.

How to know you’ve found your wedding dress

As the saying goes, when you know, you know. When you finally find your dress, there might be tears involved—but if not, that’s okay too! While every bride’s reaction to finding her wedding dress is different, there are a few major giveaways that will let you know you’re ready to make it official.  

Wedding dress alterations

So you’ve found THE dress. Yay! But slow that bridal roll, because you’re not done just yet. Now it’s time to focus on alterations and fittings—two major things that will help your wedding dress fit like a glove. Even if your dress was made to your measurements, chances are it will still need a little bit of tweaking, such as raising the hem or taking in the waist if you lost weight. Regardless of your tailoring needs (minor or major), it’s a good idea to know what the alterations and fitting process entails before meeting with your seamstress.

By Kim Forrest

Our 2020 wedding trends are ideal starting points as you plan your celebration. Whether you’re into ‘90s nostalgia or going eco-friendly, these ideas can work for every wedding style and personality!

Here’s the thing about wedding trends—they don’t really matter all that much. We know, that may sound weird coming from a wedding-focused company, but it’s the truth. Yes, it’s nice to familiarize yourself with 2020 wedding trends if you’re getting married soon, but remember that your wedding should be all about you and your partner. If some of these trends resonate with you and you’d like to use them in your wedding, awesome. If not, no biggie. You’ll find that these 2020 wedding trends are less specific and more open to interpretation (no “pampas grass is the new greenery” here) so you can take your own spin on them. Because after all, the things that make your wedding unique are the things that make them amazing.

On that note, here are the top 2020 wedding trends to consider incorporating into your own celebration.

1. ’90s babies are getting married—and featuring unique nostalgic elements in their weddings.

The average age of a person getting married in 2020 is 33, meaning that many soon-to-be weds came of age in the 1990s. So it’s not too surprising that couples are looking to that decade to infuse their event with a dose of nostalgia. Some of the 2020 wedding trends that hearken back to the ‘90s include holographic and iridescent stationery elements (hello, Lisa Frank!), as well as celestial-inspired details (an updated take on those glow-in-the-dark stars every ‘90s kid had on their ceilings). From a fashion perspective, minimalist gowns a la the ultimate ‘90s bride, Carolyn Bessette, are trending, as are accessorizing with barrettes. For a #tbt-meets-wedding vibe, ‘90s babies are even including all-white moon bounces (an elevated take on the beloved birthday party entertainment) as a throwback activity guests will love.

2. The “grandmillennial” look is the new vintage.  

Today’s couples are embracing the look of yesteryear. No, we’re not talking about the 1920s Art Deco vibe or the early 20th century Downton Abbey style that gained popularity in recent years. We’re talking about a modern take on the looks our grandparents loved—putting an eclectic twist on super-feminine patterns and details (think The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel meets Glossier). For example, pastel hues like pistachio green, lavender, and butter yellow are popping up more than ever, as well as grandma-inspired décor elements such as dried flowers, wallpaper, and ribbon. We’re also loving how today’s couples are mixing and matching patterns popularized in years past, such as buffalo check, gingham, toile, bold florals, and Chinoiserie. Expect to also see richer textures, like velvet, on the rise as 2020 wedding trends for both wedding décor and attire.

3. Yes, Instagram-worthy wedding details are trending—but they have to feel personal, too. 

Here’s the ultimate challenge for today’s soon-to-be weds: Create an event that feels personal but that’s also good for the ‘gram. One of the best ways to do this is through food. From conveyer belt hors d’oeuvres to vending machine-style champagne stations, abundant charcuterie board centerpieces to unique non-cake cakes such as cookies, cinnamon buns, and pancakes, couples (and their caterers) are letting their creativity shine during every menu course. Unique escort cards provide another opportunity to surprise and delight—we’ve seen everything from coconuts to shots of liquor, baguettes to pins directing guests to their tables. Couples are even taking Instagram-worthy entertainment to the next level—in the bathroom, stationing tarot card readers, champagne stations, and other fun activities near or even inside the restrooms. Couples are also taking an Instagram-worthy yet personal twist with their wedding portraits—instead of taking romantic photos in picturesque gardens or parks, they’re heading to their favorite fast-food eateries or coffee shops to enjoy #eeeeats while wearing their wedding finery.

4. When it comes to wedding decor, the bolder, the better. 

If we could sum up our 2020 wedding trends in one phrase, it would be this: Go bold or go home. No longer are couples concerned about wedding details being “too much”—they’re embracing wow-worthy visual and tactile experiences like never before. Whether it’s donning a maximalist wedding dress with lots of embellishments, exaggerated sleeves, and ball gown skirts, including statement décor such as metallic spray-painted flowers or hanging floral centerpieces, or including sassier language or puns that would make Grandma blush on neon or letterboard signage or stationery (hello “drunk in love”, “sh*t just got real”, or “you guac my world”), couples aren’t afraid to take their wedding details to the next level.

5. Couples are thinking about the bigger picture—not just their wedding, but how it can impact the world.

Sustainability is not just a 2020 wedding trend—it’s a way of life, and that extends to planning a wedding with the environment top of mind. For example, the micro wedding trend is gaining traction as couples strive to create a smaller environmental footprint with their big days. Décor elements are being reused—from ceremony structures repurposed for the reception space to bouquets doubling as centerpieces. On the culinary front, we can also expect to see more meatless weddings, or weddings that feature inclusive menus that appeals to guests with different dietary needs and restrictions. Edible flowers are a no-waste way to adorn ice cubes, desserts, salads, and more. And charitable favors—allowing the couple to donate to a meaningful cause—aren’t going anywhere.

Article By: Whitney Teal

Before you commit to a bridal ‘do, bookmark this list of zodiac hairstyles to consider for your wedding day.

If you’re a believer in astrology, you know that your zodiac sign can influence everything from your personality to your love life, career, and more—and if you’re getting hitched in the near future, it can also help you decide on a wedding hairstyle. There’s an ideal zodiac hairstyle for brides of every sign, whether you’re a get-down-to-business Capricorn or a statement-making Leo. If you’re still on the fence about choosing a wedding hairstyle, why not see what the stars have to say?

Here are the best zodiac hairstyles for every sign—see if yours matches your style! 

Aries hairstyle (March 21-April 19): Cotton candy hue

Your wild, creative spark need not be dimmed when choosing your wedding hairstyle, Aries. Marry your desire for a wedding-appropriate ‘do with your childlike imagination by donning a trendy braided style with a hint of bright color, like playful pink. 

Taurus hairstyle (April 20-May 20): Regal gathered curls

Your sign is associated with the gathering of crops and cashing in on a hard-earned harvest, so it’s no wonder that those born under the bull know how to live the good life. Your wedding day will be no exception, and your guests will no doubt be wowed by your glamorous fête. Create a wedding hairstyle that matches the event with high, gathered curls to elongate your neck and show off your shoulders. Finish with a regal headpiece or veil.

Gemini hairstyle (May 21-June 20): Braided crown with loose curls

It’s no surprise that you like to experience the best of both worlds, Gemini. Your twin sign will love this zodiac hairstyle since you’ll have a chic updo in the front while also channeling your more free-spirited side with loose curls in the back. Add a beaded crown for a bit of tasteful sparkle. 

Cancer hairstyle (June 21-July 22): Half-up, half-down

You’re already expecting your day to be filled with happy tears, so you’ll want your hair off your face when the waterworks inevitably start, Cancer. Don’t fight them—just prepare! A loose half-up, half-down style gives you the option to add curls for a romantic look while keeping strands out of the way for your all-day cryfest, er, wedding.

Leo hairstyle (July 23-August 22): Regal golden hues

You’re the only zodiac sign ruled by the fiery sun, and this association with warmth shows in your personality, Leo. Your ideal wedding hairstyle is as radiant and luminescent as the sun, so if you’re not naturally blonde, add gold highlights or balayage to your strands—or take the plunge and go full on Beyoncé with a honey-hued mane.

Virgo hairstyle (August 23-September 22): Bold flower crown

As an Earth sign, you appreciate the floral and the verdant, Virgo. Your sign is the ultimate Mother Earth figure, meticulously tending to nature’s bounty. That’s why a statement flower crown is the best zodiac hairstyle for you to serve up your goddess vibes.

Libra hairstyle (September 23-October 22): Balanced middle part with free-spirited texture

If there were ever a Libra mantra, it would be something like “free to be you and me.” Leave the blow dryers, curling wands and flat irons out of the equation for your wedding hairstyle, Libra. Rock your natural texture, whether pin straight, kinky coily, or somewhere in between. Balance your ‘do with a middle part to finish the look.

Scorpio hairstyle (October 23-November 21): Sleek ballerina bun

You’re smoldering, intense and calculated in your every move, Scorpio, so it wouldn’t surprise us if you plan to edit every detail of your wedding hairstyle. You’ll love a sleek and chic high bun—tell your stylist to skip the trendy flyaways, because you won’t want a hair out of place. Top it off with an elegant veil, spritz your wedding perfume and you’re ready for the big day.

Sagittarius hairstyle (November 22-December 21): Messy chignon

No one ever accused you of being too serious, Sagittarius. You know how to enjoy life and not sweat the small stuff, so a carefree updo with loose tendrils framing your face is ideal for your upcoming wedding adventure. Complete the look with an eye-catching comb or barrette that speaks to your artistic side. 

Capricorn hairstyle (December 22-January 19): Elegant low bun

The last thing you want is to spend your wedding day waving strands out of your face, Capricorn. A sophisticated low bun that shows off your texture and allows you to effortlessly add beautiful hair accessories will match well with your no-frills personality.

Aquarius hairstyle (January 20-February 18): Fishtail braid

Let your inventive and unorthodox nature shine on your wedding day, Aquarius. Opt for a head-turning zodiac hairstyle, like a mesmerizing fishtail braid accented with flowers or greenery. The otherworldly style will also leave your neck and shoulders bare for any eye-catching jewelry you have planned.

Pisces hairstyle (February 19-March 20): Old Hollywood waves

Caring, laid-back, and well-liked by all, you’re a sucker for romance and positivity in your daily life, Pisces. Your wedding hairstyle is the perfect place to really embrace your cheerful outlook, so ask your stylist for bouncy Old Hollywood-esque waves that will help you feel like your absolute best self without being over-the-top. (And, don’t worry if your hair isn’t naturally long or voluminous—no one will know if you add some extensions!). 

Article By: Kim Forrest

Just got engaged and not sure where to start? Here’s our step-by-step guide to planning a wedding to make it as simple and straightforward as possible, so you can keep stress at a minimum.

Your wedding will likely be the biggest party you’ll ever throw—and figuring out how to plan a wedding step by step can feel pretty daunting at first. Whether you have over a year or just a few months to plan your big day, focus on one task at a time so you don’t get overwhelmed by the planning process. If you’re in a time crunch, go ahead and delegate some of these responsibilities to family members and friends—they’ll likely be glad to help you as you navigate this process. If you find a wedding checklist a bit overwhelming, here’s a list of the basic steps you’ll need to complete to ensure your big day is a success. Of course, there are more tasks you may want to tackle, but we’re just talking the must-dos here. Ready to go into planning mode? Here’s how to plan a wedding step by step.

1. Set a Wedding Budget

When it comes to figuring out how to plan a wedding—you’ll need to decide how much you can spend on your wedding. It might not be the most fun part of the process, but it’s a task that really needs to be completed first. The last thing you want is to fall in love with a venue, vendor, dress, etc. and realize it’s completely out of range. So sit down with your parents or other potential contributors to come up with a total budget, and then divide it up by vendor or service accordingly.

2. Get Inspired

One of the most fun parts of planning a wedding step by step is gathering inspiration. Think about how you want your wedding to look and feel. Are you going for a super-classic and formal vibe? Or perhaps a wedding style that’s more relaxed and rustic? The choice is yours, but it’s a good idea to start perusing Pinterest, Instagram, and wedding websites to start considering wedding colors, décor ideas, and more. We recommend starting this process early on, but kicking it into high gear once you’ve selected your venue and set a date.

3. Start Your Guest List

While you don’t have to have a final guest list until a bit later, when thinking about how to plan a wedding step by step, coming up with an estimated guest count early on is important. There’s a big difference between a 50-person wedding and a 300-person wedding, particularly when it comes to your venue options. So before you start browsing wedding venues, get an idea of how many guests you’ll host. 

4. Pick Your Wedding Party

How that you’ve got your guest list, it’s time to choose the people who will stand beside you on your big day—your wedding party. So go ahead and select your bridesmaids, groomsmen, groomsladies or bridesmen (or anyone else you want in your bridal party) and ask them to take on this important role. Check out our favorite bridesmaid proposal ideas to get started.

 5. Narrow Down the Dates

You won’t officially “set a date” until you book your venue. But, we recommend choosing a few potential wedding dates before you start looking at venues. First, think about the season in which you’d like to wed—and if a Saturday night wedding is a must (convenient, but potentially more expensive and competitive) or if you’re open to a wedding on a different (perhaps less in-demand) day. Then, take a look at the calendar, taking into account work schedules, holidays, family conflicts, etc., and narrow things down to a few choice dates. Having some potential wedding dates in mind will be very helpful during the venue selection process.

6. Choose a Venue

Now that you have a budget, an estimated guest count, and a few potential wedding dates in mind, you have all the information you need to book a wedding venue—one of the most important parts of our how to plan a wedding guide. Read online reviews of wedding venues near you, visit a in person, and work with your partner to find your dream wedding location. Once you’ve thoroughly read your ceremony and reception venue’s contract and signed on the dotted line, you’ve officially set a date for your wedding—and the real fun begins!

Note: Some couples hire a wedding planner before choosing a venue, others wait until afterwards—it all depends on the type of assistance you need.

7. Start Your Wedding Registry

Pretty much immediately after you announce your engagement, your loved ones will ask: “Where are you registered?” When thinking about how to plan your wedding step by step, it’s a good idea to create your wedding registry relatively early on in the process. Your family members and friends may want to purchase engagement gifts—you can always make changes and additions to your registry later on. Use our wedding registry checklist to get started.

8. Create a Wedding Website (and Wedding Hashtag!)

Setting up a wedding website is the easiest way to do keep your guests in the loop, and one of the most important steps to planning a wedding. Make sure to include all of the important information about your big day on your website—date, location, travel information, room block details, and more. Now’s also the time to create your wedding hashtag to use on social media leading up to your wedding day.

9. Book Vendors

The average couple hires 13 vendors to help create their dream wedding day. That may seem like a lot, but it’s important to hire the right people to ensure that your big day runs smoothly. We recommend following this vendor booking timeline to figure out when to book each pro, from your wedding photographer or videographer to your florist and DJ to your officiant, and reading online reviews to help choose the best of the best.

10. Finalize Your Guest List

If you haven’t already, it’s time to create your final wedding guest list. Remember that if your parents are contributing financially to your big day, they’ll get a say in who’s invited. Be sure to keep your venue’s capacity in mind as well, and don’t invite more people than the space can handle. Even though you’ll likely receive regrets from some guests, you don’t want to risk it.

11. Send Save-the-Dates

It’s time for your guests to mark their calendars! Save-the-dates should be sent as far in advance as possible to ensure that your loved ones can plan accordingly.

12. Purchase Your Wedding Dress and Other Attire

Give yourself plenty of time to find the perfect outfit for your wedding day. Particularly when it comes to wedding dresses, it can take months from the time you purchase your attire until it’s properly tailored and ready to go, so don’t wait until the last minute.

13. Figure Out Rehearsal Dinner Details

The rehearsal dinner, which usually takes place the night before the wedding, requires some planning as well. Traditionally, the groom’s family plans the rehearsal dinner, but it’s important to figure out who’s planning (and paying) for this event well in advance—and make sure a venue is booked and details are hammered out in a timely fashion, about six months before the big day.

14. Plan the Honeymoon

You may be thinking a lot about how to plan your wedding step by step, but don’t forget about the honeymoon! If you’re planning on jetting off on your honeymoon shortly after your wedding, it’s time to choose a location, book your travel and accommodations, and start planning an itinerary.

15. Attend Those Pre-Wedding Events

Engagement parties, the bridal shower (or a co-ed wedding shower), the bachelor and bachelor party, and more—your schedule will likely be jam-packed with pre-wedding events. While the soon-to-be married couple usually has little role in planning these celebrations, you’ll need to clear your calendar to attend as guest of honor.

16. Send Wedding Invitations

Wedding invitations are usually sent six to eight weeks before the big day—and the RSVP deadline is typically about two or three weeks in advance. Sending your invites on time is one of the most essential steps to planning a wedding.

17. Buy Wedding Bands

An important symbol of marriage, be sure to browse and purchase your wedding rings a few months before your nuptials. Pick a wedding band that matches your engagement ring, is comfortable (you’ll be wearing it pretty much all the time!) and suits your personal style.

18. Create a Wedding Reception Seating Chart

Work with your venue and planner to determine how many tables your wedding reception venue can accommodate. Then, use an online tool to figure out who sits where—keeping relationships and family dynamics in mind. Once you’ve finalized your seating chart (usually a week or so before your wedding), be sure to send to your caterer, venue, and stationer so that escort cards can be created.

19. Get a Marriage License

If you’re thinking about how to plan a wedding step by step, remember one of the most important tasks—obtaining a marriage license so that you and your partner can actually get legally married! Every state has different marriage license laws, so be sure to study up beforehand. Make sure that you get your marriage license at the right time—in advance if there’s a waiting period in your state, but not too far in advance if the license expires after a certain amount of time. If you’re interested in changing your name after the wedding, that marriage license will be a critical step in the process.

20. Confirm Wedding Details with Vendors

In all likelihood, you’ve been in close contact with all of your wedding vendors in the days and weeks leading up to your big day. Make sure that you’ve tied up any loose ends and all of your vendors have all the information they need (and have been properly paid!). Wedding planners are super-helpful in this regard, and will assist you in making sure your vendors know where and when to be present for your wedding ceremony and reception.

21. Get Married!

The big day is finally here! You, your partner, your families, and your vendors have worked hard to follow all the steps to planning a wedding—so enjoy every minute!

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Article By: Joyce Chen

The couple married in Lake Como in September 2013.

Chrissy Teigen’s wedding to John Legend was the stuff dreams are made of—on the surface, at least. The couple, who will soon be celebrating seven years of marriage, dealt with a lot of unplanned surprises (including a ceremony that was four hours delayed). But in typical Teigen and Legend fashion, they rolled with the punches and turned the negatives into positives, enjoying their destination wedding in Lake Como, Italy, to the fullest. 

The pair, who initially met in 2007 on the set of Legend’s music video for “Stereo,” got married in September 2013 at the luxurious Villa d’Este overlooking Lake Como, a sentimental spot for the two of them given that they had vacationed there many times throughout their courtship. Together with 125 of their closest family and friends, the couple celebrated a love seven years in the making. “12 years ago today, I met the man of my dreams. And 5 years ago today, we got married,” Teigen captioned a throwback photo of the couple on their fifth wedding anniversary. “We have two babies and some pups and a life I am grateful to have. My everything, I love you and am so proud of the story we’ve created.”

Here, we take a look back at the couple’s wedding day, and all the perfect imperfections that made theirs one to remember.

Chrissy Teigen Bought Five Wedding Dresses

Teigen, who is the first to admit that she is an “anxious” person, admitted in a tweet in early May that she actually bought five wedding dresses in the lead-up to her wedding. The unexpected admission came after a fan tweeted that she once saw Teigen at a Barneys store buying a Celine bag so she “wouldn’t feel guilty about asking to use the bathroom.” Added the fan: “I knew I loved you before but that solidified it.” Teigen responded in the affirmative. “Wowowowow anyone that knows me knows this is very true all too often,” to which her friend pointed out on Instagram another point. 

“Sort of like that time you bought 5 wedding dresses you knew you would never actually wear because you felt guilty about ‘just trying on dresses’ which is precisely the point of TRYING ON wedding dresses I love you,” Teigen’s friend chimed in. The Sports Illustrated model responded, “THOSE WENT TO GREAT HOMES.”

In fact, at their wedding, Teigen ended up wearing a total of three different Vera Wang gowns: a full-skirted ballgown for the ceremony, a figure-hugging mermaid silhouette for the dinner, and a red trumpet dress for dancing at the reception.

The Ceremony Was Delayed Four Hours

Throwing a destination wedding was a challenge for a number of reasons, but one that Teigen did not expect was that some of her and Legend’s family members were hours delayed due to travel issues. Consequently, the couple decided to hold the ceremony until their loved ones could make it—which, naturally, had a domino effect on the rest of the wedding day. 

“[The guests] had a lot of cocktails, because the ceremony was running about four hours behind,” Teigen previously told The Knot in 2017. “Yeah… [some of our] family missed their flight. The flight was canceled, and I wasn’t even aware of it because everyone wanted to keep it a secret from me. They didn’t want to stress me out. So whatever it was, it was a lot.”

Chrissy Teigen on What She’d Change From Her Wedding

When asked, Teigen told The Knot that the one thing she would want to do differently if she could turn back time is to have more time to pen more meaningful vows. “I swear to God. I really want to get married again, because I really want to do my vows the right way,” she said. “I was very anxious. I know I’m a good writer. That’s what I take pride in, and I feel like I was so nervous and so rushed, that I didn’t really write them the way I would normally write.”

“When I do it the next time,” she joked, “I’m ging to make sure that they’re very heartfelt and not generic, and really from the heart.”

The Couple Had a Lot of Help From Local Wedding Vendors

Teigen and Legend tried to incorporate as much local fare as possible to make their wedding even more meaningful for their guests, many of whom flew from out of town to attend. “Make sure to dine at small, little, local restaurants,” the model advised. “Not only do your guests appreciate it a lot, but it makes it seem very cozy, relatable, cool and fun—as opposed to going to some ballroom where you have this huge catered affair. I think people really prefer going to some local little Italian spot and being amongst the people in the area. I think people really appreciate that.”

The couple also worked with local vendors and a planner on the ground in Italy, which Teigen told The Knot was crucial to the overall execution of their big day. “Make sure to get a planner that is versed in a destination wedding, because obviously, there are so many language barriers,” she said. “It’s really tough to get vendors, and you can get so many more discounts if you know somebody within the area who’s able to get those discounts for you. If someone is coming into a new city, there’s no way that they’re going to have that kind of relationship that’s able to get you the discounts on the florals and the tables. I think when you know somebody, you’ll end up saving a lot of money.” 

Floral and event designer Mindy Rice outfitted the Villa d’Este (where John Krasinski and Emily Blunt also married) with lush floral arrangements and hints of copper that created the ideal backdrop for the supermodel’s three different wedding dresses. Photographer Aaron Delesie documented the day. The couple also hired planner Lisa Vorce to help them with more local vendors and details.

The Cookbook Author Loved Their Wedding Cake

The Cravings cookbook author had a random hankering for the couple’s wedding cake in April 2018, and shared a stunning image of the massive creation. “Someone tagged me in a photo of my wedding cake and my fatass wants cake so bad now so here is a pic of my wedding cake,” she captioned the photo. “It was carrot with cream cheese frosting and it was awesome. I miss you, giant cake.”

The impressive cake appears to be largely naked, standing four tiers tall, with fresh flowers and greenery eucalyptus leaves acting as sweet decor between layers. Teigen previously told People magazine that she worked with her pastry chef and design team to come up with the show-stopping design. “I’m not a big sweets person, which is why I’m really specific about the cake, which is going to be a really multi-layer cake,” she told the magazine a few months before the wedding.

Teigen Advises Brides to ‘Laugh at Everything’

One of the biggest takeaways that Teigen took from her experience was that brides and grooms will ultimately have to live and let live with some of the finer details of the day. “I’m a very anxious person by nature,” she told The Knot. “I’m very shaky and I really hate planning. … I think wedding planning is having a good core group of friends who love you and are willing to take it on. But also, to be okay with the surprises that come along with everything. Let your planner do it. S–t’s gonna happen, laugh about it. You’re not going to care after that day. It’ll be funny to you. So you really have to be able to shrug things off and just enjoy it. Laugh at everything!”

Article By: Samantha Iacia

Your flower girl is bound to steal the show at your wedding—here’s everything to consider when asking her to be a part of your special day.

If you’ve ever attended a wedding, you know that the flower girl’s entrance is always an adorable moment—even when it doesn’t go perfectly. Whether it’s walking down the aisle, dancing with bridesmaids at the reception, or cracking silly faces in wedding party portraits, flower girls bring plenty of spunk and cuteness to the day, and if you’re planning to have one for your wedding, there are several details you’ll want to consider. This guide will help you choose your flower girl, understand her role, and get you up to speed on flower girl etiquette (such as who pays for the dress). 

Keep reading for all the important flower girl basics and duties. 

Choose a flower girl who falls in the right age group.

Traditionally, a flower girl should be between the ages of three and eight years old, with a little wiggle room for slightly younger or older children. This ensures that she is mature enough to handle the responsibility of walking down the aisle while still being young enough to differentiate from a bridesmaid. Two-year-olds and infants are more likely to need a parent to escort (or carry) them down the aisle, and younger children might feel especially overwhelmed in the moment. If your flower girl is 10 or older, consider making her a junior bridesmaid instead—you can even involve her in some of your planning process, such as shopping for dresses or getting your nails done together.

Think of siblings, friends, or relatives who are parents.

Choosing your flower girl might be an easy decision—maybe you have a daughter of your own, or maybe one of your siblings, best friends, or close relatives has a young daughter you’re close with. In any case, your flower girl should be someone who’s part of your close family or friend group. If you barely know her or only see her once a year, it may seem like a random choice.

Don’t be afraid to get creative if there’s not an immediate flower girl choice on the horizon. Are there young boys in your family who could handle the responsibility instead? (Yes, you can totally have a flower boy if you want!) Or maybe your cousin’s pre-teen daughter would be willing to fill the role of flower girl-meets-junior bridesmaid. If all else fails, you can ask one or two of your adult attendants to toss flowers as they walk down the aisle—it’s a funny and unexpected way to personalize your ceremony.

Remember that her parents will also be involved.

When you’re choosing your flower girl, remember that her parent(s) will also need to be involved, especially if she’s very young. They’ll be doing most—if not all—of the work leading up to your wedding, from purchasing her outfit to helping her understand exactly what she’s supposed to do on the big day. They’ll also be responsible for attending many of your pre-wedding events, such as your bridal shower and rehearsal dinner, in addition to arriving early on the day of the wedding. It’s important that you’re on good terms with your flower girl’s parents and that they’re comfortable dedicating time and money to their child’s involvement. If you’re unsure, just ask them!

Ask your flower girl in a thoughtful way.

Once your flower girl’s parents have given you the green light, it’s time to think about how you’ll ask her to be part of your special day. Many couples choose to surprise their flower girl with a thoughtful, age-appropriate gift, like a stuffed animal, keepsake jewelry, or a music box.

Save meaningful roles for other littles.

While it’s definitely an option to have more than one flower girl, you can also designate special roles for kids who won’t be part of your actual ceremony. Consider giving them other duties, such as walking behind the flower girl and/or ring bearer with a banner, passing out programs to guests, or blowing bubbles during your wedding recessional.

Flower girl FAQs

• What is the role of a flower girl?

The flower girl traditionally follows the last bridesmaid or maid of honor in the wedding processional, right before the bride makes her entrance. She often scatters flower petals, herbs, or confetti as she walks—centuries ago, this symbolized good fertility for the bride. Once your flower girl reaches the altar, she can either stand with the rest of the wedding party or return to sit with her parents. During the reception, your flower girl can be announced with the rest of the wedding party entrances if she’s comfortable enough (if not, you can enlist a bridesmaid or parent to walk in with her).

• How old are flower girls?

The best age for flower girls is between three and eight years old. Depending on your situation, she can be slightly younger or older. If she’s between the ages of 10 and 16, you can designate her as a junior bridesmaid instead.

• What does the flower girl wear? 

Traditionally, the flower girl wears a white dress with similar features to the bride’s attire, such as lace, beading, or floral appliqués. Alternatively, she can match the bridesmaids by adding a colored sash or wearing a similar dress style. Tutus, pink dresses, and sequins are also popular (and adorable) options. Flower girl dresses can be purchased online or at many bridal and formalwear boutiques. Comfortable shoes, like sandals and ballet flats, are best for younger flower girls, while older flower girls often wear shoes with low heels. Stockings, hair accessories, and jewelry are optional depending on your wedding style. 

• Who pays for the flower girl dress?

The flower girl’s parents are traditionally responsible for purchasing her dress. If you’re able and willing to pay as the couple, it’s a nice gesture.

• How much should a flower girl dress cost? 

The cost of your flower girl dress will vary depending on where it’s purchased, the style of the dress, and the age/dress size of the flower girl. On average, you can expect to spend between $50 and $150 on a flower girl dress, but you’ll also need to consider the cost of alterations, shoes, stockings, and other accessories. 

• Do flower girls wear veils?

Flower girls often wear veils, headbands, flower crowns, or tiaras that resemble the bride’s accessories.   

• How many flower girls can you have? 

There’s no rule stating how many flower girls you can have, but we recommend sticking to three or four flower girls at the most to prevent your wedding party from becoming too big. 

• Does the flower girl get ready with the bride?

Depending on her age, the flower girl often gets ready with the bride. If you would like her to have her hair professionally styled, you should offer to cover the cost, especially if you are doing so for the rest of your wedding party. If your flower girl gets ready on her own, she should arrive to your venue early enough to take group portraits before the ceremony. 

• Does the flower girl have to throw petals? 

While the flower girl traditionally throws petals, some wedding venues do not allow real petals or confetti to be tossed along the aisle. If your flower girl isn’t throwing petals, she can blow bubbles, carry a small bouquet, basket, pinwheel, or a sign instead.

Article By: Kim Forrest

Combine a date night in with gearing up for your big day with these romantic wedding-planning activities you can do at home.

Engaged couples who are spending a lot more time at home these days are often stretched pretty thin—between working, cleaning, cooking, exercising, and yes, wedding planning, finding time to enjoy some romantic activities at home can feel near impossible. But, turns out there are ways to combine a date night with checking a few items off your wedding planning checklist (and we’re not talking about working on your guest list). Of course, we encourage you to take breaks from wedding planning as needed, but if you’re in the mood to have a fun night with your spouse-to-be, and do something wedding related, we’re totally here for you.

Check out these romantic activities you can do at home that are totally wedding-planning approved.

Practice your first dance.

We all know that exercise boosts your mood, and one way to get moving and get ready for your wedding is by practicing your first dance. Whether you want to plan an intricate choreographed number or are okay just holding each other and swaying, it’s a good idea to practice your moves so you’ll feel extra-comfortable on the big day. And, dancing together is a super-romantic way to spend some time—bonus!

Test out signature cocktails.

Enjoying a favorite beverage with your love is a romantic activity you can do at home—so why not experiment with some fun signature cocktails that you can eventually serve on your big day? Ask your caterer or bar service to provide some cocktail recipes that you can create at home—and then have a taste test to pick your favorites. You can even brainstorm some creative signature cocktail names to personalize the drinks even more.

Enjoy an at-home cake tasting.

Some wedding cake bakers are creating at-home cake testing kits for couples, allowing you and your future spouse to have all of the fun of a cake tasting from the comfort of your own home. Your cake baker will pair different cake and filling flavors so that you can enjoy the sweet treats—and decide which one is best for your wedding-day dessert. For more of a risqué touch, try blindfolding and feeding each other the treats.

Try out ceremony readings.

Planning your wedding ceremony is definitely a task you can check off your list from home. If you’re interested in including some ceremony readings into your ceremony, pick a few favorites and read them to each other. The readings can be funny, emotional, sweet, or unique, but reading them directly to your partner, looking into each others’ eyes, turns this wedding-planning task into a totally romantic activity.

Try on wedding attire.

Yes, tradition dictates that you’re not to supposed to see your future spouse in his or her wedding attire until the big day. But times have changed, and particularly if your wedding plans have been postponed, you might want to give your partner a sneak peek. Not into doing a pre-wedding first look? Put on your rehearsal dinner attire or other clothing you were supposed to wear to pre-wedding events for a fancy dinner for two.

Pamper each other.

If you and your partner are in need of a little self-care (who isn’t these days?), create an in-home spa for a little pre-wedding pampering. Yes, face masks and mani/pedis are nice, but indulging each other in a little massage (complete with oils and candles to set the mood) can turn this spa experience into a sexy good time.

Plan your dream honeymoon.

Many couples have placed their honeymoon plans on hold for the time being, but that doesn’t mean you and your future spouse can’t start to research locations and think about lodging, restaurants, activities, and more. While right now you and your partner may be stuck at home, there’s nothing wrong with dreaming about the future when you’re able to take that trip of a lifetime.

Article By: Maddy Sims

Wondering to yourself, “Should I propose before or after dinner?” We have the answer for you—plus other information to help you plan the perfect restaurant proposal.

If you’re planning a dinner proposal, you’ve likely picked the restaurant, found the engagement ring and thought through what to say. But nailing down the timing can be tricky. If you’ve been wondering to yourself, “Should I propose before or after dinner?” there are several factors to consider. Everything from the food you’ve ordered to your personality can help inform your decision. For example, if you’ve ordered a six-course prix-fixe meal, you might want to hold off on proposing until the end so you can fully enjoy the food. However, if you get extremely nervous, it might be better to pop the question first so you don’t spend the entire night stressing.

Below are the pros and cons of each option so you can make the best decision for you. No more tossing and turning at night wondering, “Should I propose before or after dinner?” After reading this, you’ll be able to make your decision confidently. Plus, we include other proposal night information you’ll need (like how to pick the right place and what to wear) as well as a few creative proposal dinner ideas.

Below, see everything to know about planning a restaurant proposal—including if you should propose before or after dinner.

How do I pick the right proposal dinner restaurant?

So you’ve settled on a proposal dinner at a restaurant. Now comes the fun part: picking the place. There are two different ways to settle on a location for your special night.

One way to decide where to eat is to think about your love story. Maybe you can revisit the Italian bistro where you had your first date or the sushi spot where you first said you love each other. Or, turn to your go-to date night restaurant (like that little taqueria down the street or the pizza place around the corner). If none of those seem right, consider your partner’s favorite foods or restaurants for more inspiration.

Some people want the proposal to be extra special, so they might look for an upscale restaurant instead of something familiar. If that’s the case, spend time researching different places so you’re confident in your decision. Think about what kind of food your partner likes, read reviews and look at pictures. You can also ask your friends and family for recommendations if you’re struggling with the search.

Should I propose before or after dinner?

There’s no right or wrong answer. Below are pros and cons of each option so you can choose what works best for you and your partner.

Proposing Before Dinner

Think of this approach as “ripping the bandaid off.” If just the thought of sitting through dinner stresses you out, you might want to propose before the meal. That way, you’re not feeling anxious the whole time. It also allows you and your partner to celebrate the engagement together over a delicious meal. Proposing before dinner can also help give you a buffer if you’re planning on meeting up with friends and family later. You can enjoy the meal together and then celebrate with your loved ones afterwards.

Proposing After Dinner

On the other hand, if you’ve paid for an expensive meal, you might want to hold off on proposing until the end. Getting engaged is super exciting, which means your partner (and you) might be too amped to truly enjoy the food. Additionally, proposing after the meal means you can go somewhere a little more private to celebrate if that’s what you and your partner would prefer.

What to Wear to a Proposal Dinner

If you’re wondering what to wear to a proposal dinner, think about the restaurant you’re going to. A five-star tapas bar might call for a more formal look (think black tie or cocktail) while a laid-back pub would lend itself more to a business casual outfit. Research the restaurant ahead of time and look into the suggested dress code they have. Remember you’ll likely be taking pictures after you propose, so you’ll want to make sure you dress nicely. After all, you’ll treasure those pictures for years to come.

What are some dinner proposal ideas?

Racking your brain for the perfect way to propose? Here are a few ideas to get you inspired. Once you’ve decided, make sure to coordinate with the restaurant so they can help you pull it off seamlessly.

• Place the ring at the bottom of your partner’s champagne glass—just make sure your partner sees the ring before taking a sip!
• Have the waiter place the ring on your partner’s plate
• Leave a note in your partner’s napkin
• Leave a note in your partner’s menu
• Propose to them at the table
• Have the restaurant band serenade your partner