For a mere $999 starting bid, you could own a piece of pop culture history, y’all. Someone is auctioning off an invitation and wedding favor candle from Britney Spears-Federline’s wedding.
Posted in Pop Culture at June 3rd, 2006. No Comments.
The 2nd DIYBride audio podcast of 2006 has been released and is available via iTunes
Khris gives an DIY invitations 101 presentation. Topics include:
* The importance of your invitation
* What your DIY options are
* The four essentials of invitation design
* Anatomy of an invitation
* A paper primer
* Invitation trends
* And, finally, a few tips and hints to set you on your way to awesome invitations
Posted in Podcasts at May 24th, 2006. No Comments.
In our first episode Khris introduces DIYBride.com, talks about how it got started, and shares her background.
The US Postal Service released two new stamps last month designed specifically for wedding correspondence. The stamps are available in lavendar (39 cent) and light green (63 cents). Hopefully they’ll follow up with a corresponding stamp for post cards (great for RSVPs).
Read More…
Posted in Swell Products at March 11th, 2006. No Comments.
Favors are meant to be little tokens of appreciation from you to your guests. Whether they are elaborate or simple, what you give your guests should reflect your gratitude and be something most of your guests can appreciate.
Before you spend countless hours and lots of money on favors that will be ignored or thrown away, we’d like to offer you some hints to make your favors a hit.
1. If it’s not edible or useful in everyday life, you’re likely wasting your time and money. The idea of a favor is to give your guests a little “thank you” for sharing your day. Most guests are appreciative of the gesture, no matter what it is. However, not everyone wants to cart home little trinkets to clog their junk drawers, memory boxes or garbage cans.
2. Find favors that will appeal to MOST OF YOUR GUESTS. You may find lacey, highly scented potpourri sachets to be the veritible cat’s meow, but the 50% of your male guests, 2% of your highly allergic pals, and 30% of your friends who have very different decorating ideas will not be as charmed by them as you. You’ll likely end up with lots of left-overs.
3. Forget monogrammed items. Frames, glassware, trinkets with your initials are likely candidates to get left behind. Why? Who wants someone else’s initials on their glassware? It’s kind of creepy. Want to put your monogram on something? Attach a little card or ribbon with your names/initials to the favor or put your monogram on the packaging, not the item itself.
4. You’re an adult. The majority of your guests are adults. Please distribute favors that (a) look like something an adult would appreciate OR (b) appeal to the kid in all of us. Nostalgia toys (Legos, Pez dispensers, Pla-Doh) are big hits for kids and adults alike because most of us can relate to them. Frilly, girly things are better saved for 7 year old girl guests or for your bridal showers, if you’re into that sort of thing.
5. Inexpensive doesn’t have to look cheap. Chances are if the favor looks cheap, it’ll get left behind or will get tossed.
6. Make certain guests know they exist. We’ve attended many receptions where the favors were hidden in a basket next to the door. Putting favors next to each guest’s place setting is ideal or personally handing them out to each guest during the reception is a nice way to greet each person and thank them individually.
So, what are the favor “shoulds”?
- They should appeal to most adult guests, male and female.
- They should not be highly scented.
- They should be useful or edible.
- They should given with love and gratitude.
Read More…
Posted in Planning Advice at January 10th, 2005. No Comments.
On average, a wedding in the U.S. will cost $20,000. The factors that most affect how much a couple will spend on their wedding are number of guests, geographical location, and availability of funds or credit. If a couple puts the full cost of a wedding on a credit card and pays only the minimum allowable payment per month, that couple will, literally, NEVER get out of debt.
Traditionally, the bride’s family bore the bulk of the financial burden for their daughter’s wedding expenses. This has changed dramatically in the last decade or so as the groom’’s family is contributing more to help out the couple. However, many couples - especially those into and past their mid-20’s - are paying for their own weddings with modest or no help from relatives.Because the pressure to throw a huge, pricey wedding still exists, many couples find themselves turning to credit cards to pay for wedding expenses. These couples will begin their married life together deep in debt that will haunt them for years to come.Some numbers for you to consider
We used the Credit Card Payoff Calculator from Genus Credit Management to do some quick debt calculations.
* A credit card debt of $20,000 with the average interest rate of 18% will take you 219 YEARS to pay off with a minimum allowable payment of $325 per month.
* A debt of $10,000 with an “good” interest rate of 14% will take you 32 Years 2 Months to pay off using the minimum allowable payment of $200 per month.
* A $5,000 debt with an interest rate of 21% will take you 73 Years 2 Months to pay off with a monthly minimum payment of $100.
Scared? This is serious, life-long debt for ONE DAY of celebration.
Don’t let the credit card companies fool you
Many couples get giddy when they see credit card offers for zero percent interest. While it may seem like a great deal, it’s important to read the fine print.
* Some zero percent offers are an introductory rate meaning that the zero percent rate is guaranteed for a limited amount of months before they raise it. Expect it to go to at least 7%, but, more likely, 14% - 18% after the introductory offer expires.
* Zero percent may apply to only balance transfers from your other credit cards, leaving you to pay a hefty percentage on any new purchases you make. Or, conversely, you may pay zero percent on new purchases and a high percentage rate on balance transfers.
* Another issue with zero percent cards is you must pay on time each month. One late payment - even by a single day - can cancel the whole 0% deal and you’ll end up paying high interest rates… some over 24%! And don’t forget the late fees. One company we know of charges an extra $35 on top of a higher interest rate for late payments.
You may be better staying with a low interest, guaranteed rate card in the long term… and don’t use it for wedding expenses.
Always read the agreement and look for the annual percentage rate, annual fees, late fees, and any other fees or rate changes that may affect you.
Where to find the money
If you find that you need extra funds for your wedding celebration, you have few options.
* Personal Loans - Your bank or credit union may have decent rates on personal loans.
* Credit Cards - As stated above, this is a bad, bad idea. Resist at all cost.
* Donations From Family - You may be surprised at the generosity your families may bestow upon you. Graciously accept financial help they may offer, but don”t demand or expect them to shell out big bucks for your celebration.
* Extra Jobs - You and your fiance can take on extra jobs for a few months to generate extra income. This is probably the best way to get the money you need. If your own wedding isn’t worth working extra-hard for, think about your plans and re-budget for something within your means .
Your best chances of beginning a debt-free married life is to live - and create a wedding - within your means. There’s no shame in creating an inexpensive, affordable wedding!
Posted in Planning Advice at January 10th, 2005. 2 Comments.
The U.S. Postal Service charges extra for letters that are square or have an unusual shape. At this writing, it’s $0.12 more for a letter of 1 ounce or less. Their defined dimensions for square and unusual can be found online at USPS.Com.
I strongly recommend that you take two of your finished invitations and ask your post office to weigh them and quote a price so that you know for sure before you affix your stamps to them. Why two? Differences in the weight of paper, ribbon, glue, embellisments, etc. can vary from card to card. By taking two samples, you can get an idea if there are any variances in your designs, saving you a major headache of returned invitations . If you base your postage on an 1.0 ounce letter and all of your invitations actually weigh 1.1 ounces, the PO will not deliver the invites with insufficient postage.
The US Postal Service is also proposing a postage increase this year. If approved, the rates won’t actually increase until 2006. However, expect a 10%-15% increase.
Read More…
Posted in Planning Advice at January 4th, 2005. No Comments.
1. Do Your Research. Spending a little time early in your planning stages comparision shopping, checking vendor references, and exploring all of your options are guaranteed to save you time, grief, and expense in the long-run.
2. Get It In Writing. We cannot stress how important this is. For every vendor you hire, you should have written a contract outlining in the minutest of details what you’re hiring them for. Be sure to include things like scheduled breaks for DJs, Photographers/Videographer, and Musicians. Include specific set lists for DJs, exact flowers or combinations of colors for florists, a written copy of your ceremony or vows for clergy, timelines for photographers and DJs, etc. Document all fees, fee schedules, and compensation requests. You can never have too much documentation. All of this will help ensure nothing goes wrong during your wedding and, heaven forbid, should something bad happen, you”ll have legal documents to help recoup any expenses or damages should you need to take legal action.
3. Keep Detailed Records. Directly related to #2 above. Whatever you get in writing, keep copies of all contracts, receipts, quotes, credit card statements, cancelled checks, etc.
4. Never Pay With Cash. Why? Because there will be no traceable record of it. Use checks or credit cards whenever possible. This will guarantee a paper trail of some sort in case there’s ever any question of payment. Remember to get receipts for every transaction!
5. Delegate. This is possibly the most difficult thing for brides to do. We understand how hard it is to put absolute faith in other people to carry out your wishes exactly as you want. We also understand that being a control freak will cause you nothing but added stress and unwanted heartache. Whether you hire a wedding consultant or gather your most trusted friends to help, do get help. You’ll be happier, less stressed and more radiant come your wedding day.
6. Be Thankful. We are horrified by the amount of stories about Evil Brides. Weddings are voluntary events for your attendants, parents, friends, and guests. None of these people are obligated to participate but are doing so out of their love for you. No one owes you presents. No one should have to sell their soul or jeopardize their own personal lives to be in your wedding. Send thank you notes promptly, do not be a dictator, be understanding and respectful of other people’s time and commitments. Treat those around you with respect and dignity, please.7. Make It Personal. This is the one time in your life that you are able to create an unique statement about your love and your relationship. How you celebrate this day is entirely up to you and your fiance, so use this opportunity to say something meaningful and personal about your love. Whether your day is staid or whimsical, put something of yourself into it. It’ll be more interesting and inviting for your guests and you’ll always remember your day as something unique and special because it reflected who you are.8. Nuture Yourself. Weddings are stressful events that require enormous amounts of your energy and sanity. Don”t forget to take time for yourself to de-stress, collect your thoughts, and nuture yourself as you move forward. Get massages, go to therapy, treat yourself to a manicure… whatever it takes to put some focus on your well-being, do it.
9. Include The Groom. Guess what? Most grooms want to be involved in wedding planning. Afterall, it is their wedding, too. Encouraging them to select tasks, asking for their input, and sharing ideas and opinions insures they get to help create their dream wedding. This will be good tests of how well you work together, how well you collaborate, and how well you work through problems.
10. You’re Not Alone. Sometimes the stresses of weddings can make you feel isolated and alone. Not everyone understands the trauma of not finding the perfect gown or how discovering that you’re $1100 over budget is causing major headaches at home. You have outlets and resources online and off - make use of them. There are dozens of online communities, message boards, chat rooms, etc full of other couples having similar experiences. Most are great havens for brides-to-be.
Posted in Planning Advice at January 4th, 2005. No Comments.
Easy ways to cut back wedding expenses
1. Do your research. Give yourself plenty of time to research wedding expenses in your area. Be aware of costs before you set a budget so that (a) your budget is realistic which aids you in not overspending and (b) helps you be a better bargain shopper.
2. Comparison shop. Take time to interview as many wedding vendors as you can. Ask about any specials or discounts they may have available. YouÃŒd be surprised at how much you can save simply by asking for discounts. Use the internet to search for the best deals on gowns, accessories, stationery, and favors.
3. Avoid impulse buys and pressured purchases. DonÃŒt fall prey to pushy salespeople and donÃŒt make hasty purchases without evaluating how the item or service fits into your budget and overall wedding scheme. Even if you’re on a tight time schedule, give yourself a dayÃŒs cooling off period to really think about the purchase.4. Be flexible. Your ability to save money is directly related to your ability to be flexible. Prioritize which things you are willing to negotiate and which are absolutes. For example, you absolutely must have a June wedding. You are willing to get married on a Friday night or Sunday afternoon to get a cheaper venue rental rate.5. Streamline your guest list. The more people you invite to your wedding, the more invitations, postage, favors, drinks, meals, table settings, etc., you”ll need. By eliminating only 5 - 10 people from your guest list, you”ll save significant amounts of money from the very beginning. Example, by cutting back 10 guests:
- 10 x $40 per person catering = $400
- 10 x $8.00 per person beverages = $80
- 10 x $4.00 for invite & postage = $40
- 1 x $45 for 1 table, 10 chair & linen rentals = $45
- 10 x $1.50 for favors = $15.00
Total Saved = $580.00
6. Buy a white bridesmaid’s dress - many bridesmaid designers offer their gowns in white or ivory. For around $250 or less you can find gorgeous gowns in a multitude of sizes and styles.
7. Keep the embellishments simple - the more beading, lace, embroidery on your gown, the more expensive it will be.
8. Ask if the gown is made in another fabric - some designers offer the same gown in a choice of fabrics. Satin is cheaper than silk and still looks great.
9. Shop around for the best alterations pricing - though your bridal salon may offer an alterations service, they may not offer the best deals.
10. Use a buying service, such as Discount Bridal Service, who buy the gown for you at a heavily discounted rate. [update 7/25/05: DBS has filed for bankruptcy!]
11. The internet is your pal - shop online for your gown. You may be surprised at the discounts online shops can give you.
12. Skip the favors. While they’re a lovely way to give a little thanks to your guests, theyÃŒre totally unnecessary. Few people will notice or care that theyÃŒre missing.
13. Forgo buying special bride & groom toasting flutes. Simply use the same champagne flutes your guests use. Have the caterer tie a simple ribbon around the stem of each if you want to dress it up a bit.
14. DonÃŒt buy a special bridal purse or handbag. Chances are you’ll never open it on your wedding day, let alone carry it around during your ceremony/reception.
15. Fancy ink pens for your guest book can be pricey. Simple, regular ink pens are just fine - and better guaranteed to work. And, really, no one cares what your pen looks like.
16. Take Advantage of Your Season. By using “in season” items, you save money by not buying harder-to-find items. This is especially true for flowers and food. Tulips, for example, are a spring crop and are cheaper from February through April. You can still get them in August, but you pay a premium price. The same is true for vegetables. If your heart is set for asparagus in December, you’ll generally pay more than you would in May, at the height of asparagus season.
17. Do-It-Yourself. There are a multitude of wedding projects you can do yourself that will help save money. Creating your own invitations, favors, and decorations, for example, are great ways to control costs. Visit http://www.diybride.com for great craft ideas and instructions.
18. Cut bar costs - Champagne toasts, wine with dinner and an open bar can ratchet up the reception costs. A champagne-punch fountain is considerably cheaper than glasses of champagne all around. Limiting the alcohol choices to beer and wine can also save money.
19. A DJ can be a less-expensive alternative to a band, which can cost $3000 to $10,000 for a Saturday night.
20. Transportation costs can be cut by renting a limousine for the bridal couple only and having the rest of the bridal party use their own cars.
21. Cut decorating costs by using candles instead of floral arrangements on the tables.
22. Let your floral arrangements do double duty and move them from ceremony to reception instead of purchasing arrangements for both sites.
23. Don’t assume you’ll save on wait staff if you choose stationary hors d’oeuvres like crudites and cheese and crackers. Talk with your caterer about cost differences between stationary and passed hors d’oeuvres, and more affordable ingredients.
24. Limit the number of attendants you have. This will reduce your flower bill (bridesmaidÃŒs bouquets can be very expensive), the number of attendant gifts that you’ll have to purchase, the of cost of the rehearsal dinner, transportation costs, etc.
25. Don’t get into debt for this day. Though you’re looking for ways to save money now, this will save you money for the rest of your married life. While using credit cards is a great idea for deposits, using them to pay for all of your expenses and not paying the total balance each month is the wrong way to begin your married life. If you put $25,000 on your credit card with the average 14 percent interest rate and only pay the minimum payment of 1.5 percent required each month, it will take you 100 years to pay it off!
Posted in Planning Advice at January 4th, 2005. No Comments.
The do-it-yourself wedding is an attractive option to many. But is it really for you?
In 2003, we polled just over 100 recently married couples about their DIY experiences. Their responses yielded some excellent advice and wisdom for anyone contemplating a DIY wedding.
As with any decision, there are pros and cons to going the DIY route. Based on the comments from real brides, this handy little list offers some important things to consider before you commit to doing it yourself.Benefits of DIY:
• You control the design or concept
• You control the quality of product or service you create for yourself
• You control the pricing/budget
• Each project you make is uniquely yours
• You get to excerise your creative talentsNegatives of DIY:
• It’s not always cheaper than having someone else do it
• Creating your own projects can take a long time
• DIY may be intimidating if you’re not crafty or are in a creative funk
• There’s often a huge time commitment involved
• You’ll likely need reliable help to complete projects
• You may need to buy a bunch of expensive supplies just to get started
• It may be difficult to find inexpensive, quality, or unique supplies
Tidbits from our poll:
• 57% said they’d go DIY all over again
• 66% said they’d scale back their DIY projects if they did it again
• The average budget for DIY supplies was $800
• 84% said they went over budget
• The average amount of hours spent on DIY projects was 200+ (that’s over 25 8-hour days)
• 89% said they underestimated the time needed to complete their projects
• 45% said they didn’t have enough help
• 55% said they couldn’t find the right supplies
• The most popular projects were:
- invitations, rsvps, maps
- programs
- favors & gifts
- table cards/seating cards
- bouquets & flower arrangements
- centerpieces & decor
-
About The Book
Available at your favorite craft stores and booksellers.
Important notes about the book.
Book #2, The DIY Bride's Crafty Countdown, coming Spring 2010. -
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