The Bands

Not the music. The rings! Wedding rings should be stylized to the duo's tastes. Of course, I'm still waiting for feedback, but what I love is Rose Gold. Rose gold has a fire to it that shines in the light with a reddish tint. Traditionally wedding bands are just that, bands, but there have been rings with stones in them, typically for the lady.

Of course, there's no limit to the kind of ring you get. The engagement ring is meant to be the real shocker, but the wedding ring should be agreed upon for matching. Of course, some traditionalists tend to pass down heirlooms from kin to kin, and while it saves on cost, it's also a memento that has more than new value. The only issue is sizing, which is why some new couples choose to do their own wedding bands anyway.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with either way. Generally it's left up to the wedded to decide. I'm of the 'it never hurts to look' persuasion myself. Ideally, I lean towards the simpler styles, as I don't want something that will get hit too much, or cause a problem with daily wear.

A fun fact: In Hindu weddings, the bride is given a Mangalsutra that she will wear for the rest of her married life. It's kind of like our version of the wedding ring.

Research: Disney Weddings

The times have certainly changed. You can now have a 'dream' wedding at Disney World, Disney Land, Or on a Cruise Line. Playing around on the website, you're more than welcome to play with all the options and create your special event with a budget of "I'm Just Dreaming." 

With the selections you can choose from come numbers for amounts of guests, entertainment, venues, flowers, cakes, and addons. You're provided with a wedding planner to help you make your special day included in the cost of the entire event. 

Just to mess around, I picked Magic Kingdom and set the 18 guest option. Along with what's included you're able to add, for an additional price, band members, photo options, and specialty photoshoots, including a Trash The Dress album. Now that's dedication.

Your options for the wedding are available from loads of resorts, or for the right number of guests, the castle inside the park. Be warned, depending on your venue, you're going to pay for it. My base price of 4,800 USD jumped to 12,000 USD really fast with just a few photo add-ons, and a visit to the Gran Floridian. Included though, was 2 annual passes for the bride and groom. Pretty useless if you're from out of state, but still nifty.

All in all it's actually a pretty sweet deal all things considered. Weddings can cost upwards of 10,000 USD by themselves regularly. Now you're giving Disney the responsibility of the hassle, the wear and tear, and entertainment. So, I actually have to say it may be worth the ride. 

If you're curious and want to make your own dream, see what you can do.

The Setting

Weddings are always so meticulously planned. Like a good book the setting is everything to create a bigger picture. Some are held at beaches, outside, at recreational centers, at churches, even in rented mansions for the occasion. It all comes down to the price when you're planning your special day. One of the most expensive parts is going to always be planning the location, gauging how many guests you're going to need room for, deciding if the reception and ceremony are going to be in the same building, and even deciding if you want to take the chance in dirtying a dress by having an outdoor event.

Above are pictured two different settings. One is quite obviously a traditional Indian-style ceremony stage, while the other is a small recreational center. Both are indoors. Now, the perks of having an indoor ceremony are dependant on where you are. During the rainy, or snowy seasons you'll definitely want to keep your guests indoors to prevent any dresses from being ruined, and to keep any children satisfied long enough to sit through the event. If you're in a hot and muggy state, it's also probably better to stay indoors unless you're not worried about bugs or sweating makeup and hair out of your precious do's'.

If you want to be outdoor, there's always the option of a pavillion or setting some covering up depending on how much room you'll be needing. It's by far the cheapest way to go sometimes, because of the space being able to be rented or requested from a park, and the room for your guests is nearly limitless. The only considerations you'll need are how many tables and chairs you'll have to rent, and what the costs of building a covering will cost. You'll have to work with some time restraints with getting things up or down, but it really does 'set the stage'.

Alternatively, the church is always a consideration because of everything already being right there. You've got your minister, your pews, and usually some sort of piano or organ for the typical wedding march if that's what floats your boat. My only gripe is that I'm not religious. I'd of course go with whatever floats Tony's boat in this case, but different churches adhere to different traditions. It can have an impact on your ceremony if you choose to follow them. 

Being from Florida, an outdoor event is out. There's no way I'm getting my hair done only to have it turn to mush in less than an hour. Then there's the fact I'd like to have a train. It looks like my options are the church and the recreational center. Then again, we may be married somewhere else. It's still nice to dream. 

Alternatively, if you're feeling froggy you can also have the real 'fairytale' experience. Disney will do weddings and your honeymoon can be a ferry or monorail ride away. Good luck with the price. 

Ironically I'm always pining for a disney wedding.

The Veil

The veil, though now not used quite as often anymore is a staple of the traditional wedding. Usually it's worn walking down the aisle, and is lifted once at the end. Most of the time it's made of lace and can have some pretty fancy trims or designs in it, range from two-to longer than ten feet, and can act as a train instead of the dress itself. 

What I've got my sights set on here is a veil sheer enough to not hide any of the dress in the back, have some sort of color to it, and to have some pretty nice embroidery. It's been pretty agreed on by both of us that the cathedral length is what we should be setting our sights for, because hey, even a medium veil will probably hit the floor for me anyway. 

Though again, the veil color and design heavily relies on the color and cut of the dress, it's actually pretty easy to find a veil to match whatever you're looking for. They can also be purchased from a place such as David's Bridal and have the trim dyed to match whatever you're looking for. Though, I wouldn't rely on anything like that for any kind of extravagant trim unless they've already got it in stock. 

Let's talk about: The Culture Red

Red is a very traditional color no matter where you go. It has deep symbolism in every country for very different things.

In India, the red dress is symbolic of luck and a sacred color to the Hindi religion. It is very much like white is for the traditionalist church-going wedding. Some of the indian sari are beautiful in their vibrancy, and the wedding can truly feel like a royal affair with the colors of gold, red, burgundy, and earth tones.

A little further East, China uses red as their wedding color of choice because of the symbolism of joy, love, and prosperity. In most Chinese traditions, the wedding envelopes are red, baskets are red, and gifts are given in red. These days, some traditions have westernized and utilize the white dress. Once again gold is a heavily used color in the designs.

It is much the same in Japan, where the red-lined kimono means new beginnings and happiness. Most kimono are very heavy, having so many layers that all must be put on with help, and again have the traditional headpiece. The ladies who wear them tend to almost look ethereal. Though the tradition is red and white, I found the one below too gorgeous to pass up.

Korea and Taiwan also use the traditional Asian red, but the note here is the symbol of the color. In America red can be said to be love, passion, or ferocity. On the other hand it is associated with anger, fury, or fire. The color has a very regal look to it to me. Perhaps not as much as purple, but it stands that the color is beautiful and should be used, not shied away from.

Let's talk about: Corsets

Corsets have been a huge influence on the wedding dress look. A corset slims the brides' waist and allows for a second skirt to be used during the reception so that transferring from ceremony to reception is less of a problem.

A lady with an hourglass figure may find it easier to wear a corset top to keep the pains of having the dress seriously altered off the playing field. Some dresses are just not made for a woman with a larger bust, and larger hips. This is also true for bridesmaids. 

Corsets not only give the front of the dress a bit of interest, but give the bride or dress-wearer the option of choosing a colored lace for the back of the dress and add some beautiful interest to the back of a gown. Of course, the usual perks of wearing a corset apply. The curves are accentuated, and torso is thinned out so that the wearer has a more interesting shape, and no shapewear needs to be worn beneath. The corset also gives the wearer bust support, which is incredibly important for the woman with a larger bust. 

Of course, the corset also gives the bride options for a two-toned dress as well, and the base of the corset may either be hidden by a slip-over cover or a sash to make the dress look more like one piece. Some corsets are made to be shown off, and have no need to be hidden at all. The possibilities of the corset are endless, and can really add to a classy look when paired with a lace sleeve-jacket, or worn with the proper skirt.

The Dress Part 2

Scouring the internet for a red and white dress that doesn't look cheap or trashy is hard. Therefore, these dresses below are dresses that will all work with a separate, custom red sash that can be tied up into a bow before the ceremony, and still add to the image instead of taking away from it. Some of them have sleeves, some of them do not. My personal favorites are the second and last image. I feel the lace sleeves are beautiful with the open neck in the second, and the entire lace top is absolutely stunning.

The Bridesmaids

I know the traditions. The bridesmaids should all be the same, and wear boring dresses to not take away from the bride. I don't agree with this tradition. I invited a select few people to stand with me so that they would be noticed, and would feel beautiful and special. Therefore, this tradition is made to be broken.

It would be best if I could find a specific dress that came in a number of styles, short, medium, long, sleeveless, sleeved, to fit the wearer's needs or body type. They shouldn't feel uncomfortable standing at the front, or be judged for anything. Below are a couple of dresses I've picked (assumedly they will be red) that have something to them that makes them interesting. Of course, the bridesmaids will all carry their flowers, and all be allowed to pick their shoes (whether they be flats or heels) as long as they get the correct color.

Davids Bridal offers what I look for in dresses, however have the option of dying the shoes Apple, to fit the needs of the Wedding Party. That will probably be what happens.

Of course, the maid of honor is the star of the show, the cream of the crop, and I'd be speaking with her about everything she'd be wearing. I want her to give me as much input as I'm telling you guys. She will have the option of choosing her dress from a number, depending on what I feel she looks the best in.

It all comes down to the fact she should look the most interesting. Though compared to the chosen dress some of these have more interest, keep in mind the 'chosen' dress isn't final, and depending on the bridesmaids and maid of honor, I may decide just to change it altogether to fit.

The Groom

One thing Tony and I agree on completely is that bow ties are absolutely idiotic. The tie is the way to go, giving the groom the opportunity to bring more color to his outfit as well. While we haven't actually looked at tuxedos yet (I'm leaving that to him,) we have looked at some sample vests.

the color will be dependent on the wedding dress accent, but it would be nice if the tie were two-toned as well. I'd like him to be the talk of the wedding, after all it's his day too.

The Nails

The fastest way to scare Tony is to show him nails that can destroy him. Remember, my goal is to keep everything solid or simplistic. The design below caught my attention, of course without the hearts, but the nails are far too long to even consider when getting into the dress.

The shine is interesting, and the bows are absolutely adorable, but they're way too long, and the design can absolutely not be transferred to the toes, especially in closed toe shoes.

On the other hand, these have a very light design that doesn't overpower the fingers, look gaudy, and can have more done to them if desired. The nail length is short but sweet, keeping the nails from tearing the dress or veil by accident while dressing or moving around. 

The Dress

I've gone back and forth with various people about the dress. White, while in the theme, is not my thing. I do not like pure white at all. It's bright, you can hardly see detail, and as explained in my first post it is a symbolism for something I shouldn't be feeling on my day.

After going through hundreds upon hundreds of dresses in pure color, or touches of this and that, I decided on a couple of criteria that NEED to be met in order for me to be fully satisfied with the dress. Tony insists that the dress is custom, which would probably be around the same price as the amount of alterations I'll need for it anyway.  I insist on a more modern look, with the body fit around the top, and maybe if I can get away with it, ruffles.

The dress is required to have at least a bow, two tones, and a train. Those three things are what I look forward to the most when it comes to my dress. Every little girl wants the big fairy tale wedding, I just want mine with a bit more of a touch.

The dress that finally managed to do it for me was so simple, it was surprising. There are no frills, hardly any ruffles, but a big red bow around the waist that doesn't over-do the entire red detail. It still manages to remain traditional, satisfy my desire for a big dress, and gives me more ideas than satisfies. This will probably not be my only dress post.

The Shoes

Beneath the wedding dress it's perfectly acceptable for the bride to wear flats, considering she's going to be walking and doesn't want to trip, along with the fact that with specific kinds of dresses you can't actually SEE the feet.

Of course, being as pocket sized as I am, I don't foresee that being a possibility. I also quite enjoy heels when given the chance to wear them, providing they have the proper support.

These are quite pretty and fit the theme should they be seen, however sport a very thin heel and near-closed V toe. The colors, though what I am looking for, are the only thing I could come to love about this kind of shoe.

These two are a more realistic choice. The wide heel on the first shoe provides balance that I will desperately need, while the second set has a thinner heel and ankle support. The fronts of the shoes, though closed, are rounded out for comfort. The only issue is that my foot will probably suffer from slipping out of the first shoe and crushing the sides down. I'm as graceful as a walrus.

The Hair

The one and only thing I was able to get out of Tony without a prompt was about hair. Hair is of course a big thing. It decides how your veil will work, or what kind of dress back you should have. I'm not fashion lady, but I have heard from multiple sources that it's "down or nothing."

Though I agree with my roommate that some of it is a bit much, I do really like this messy, stylized look. The flowers would have to go, but the ribbons could be done in either white or red to match the theme. The only question is if I would have enough hair to do it. I'm sure it could be modified to fit my needs.

The front hair is pulled away from the face, and rest of it is curled, something I'm not used to with hair that goes from fluffy to flat faster than I can put the hairdryer down. This compromise could work with a long veil, which is what the current debate is.

The Tables

Of course, you have to have table setups. Because of the red being accentual, I would prefer ivory table cloths, with things on the table taking the rest of the palate. The tables will be dependant on where the reception is held, so I have no control at this point over the shape, however I can plan for either way.

The cake table should be the most stylized, as it serves as the center for the attention. Knowing my family guests will probably be ready for cake as soon as they see it. I would like for there to be ruffles in the cloth, with red accents of roses tied to hold up the edges and lace underneath. Of course, the lace isn't a requirement and may be a bit too much for the modernization type, so I may go with a red underskirt instead.

Ivory tablecloths (not pink) are prefered, however this picture caught my attention with the edge of the tables having the ropes and ruffles. The chairs could have beautiful red bows on the back with ruffles of white and red, really bringing together the look with the centerpiece of flowers.

It's quite hard to find a napkin I like, though I know I would prefer red napkins with ivory bows. No crystals or little rhinestones. I find those things to be gaudy.

Champagne flutes are the easiest part. Little red bows and maybe some small markers for guests. The toasting glasses will be the only ones tied, with a white lace rather than black.

If done correctly the entire dining room will be bright, and feel welcoming. Red as the main color would be too rich, and make things feel crowded or dark. My guests should feel welcomed to the reception, not overpowered by strong color or be reminded of Valentines.

The Cake

Of course, the cake will be custom, and I would like to ask my friend Sara if she would like the honors of doing it. With the theme, the most sensible thing would be red velvet, however I'm not very fond of how sweet it is myself. Chocolate again is questionable, and it's been considered that the cake have multiple layers with different flavorings for different guests needs and wants.

Vetoes:

• Ice cream
• Carrot
• Red Velvet
• Lemon

Though Carrot Cake has to be one of my all-time favorite things, I'm not quite sure it would be a good idea. 

I want the cake to follow the theme as much as possible, and would like for it to have a very symmetrical, or vintage look to it. Red icing doesn't suit my fancy, but instead I would like adornments of flowers to bring the color to the cake. The group will most likely not be very big, so the cake doesn't need to be enormous, but it would be wonderful to have enough for people to come back for a second piece if they really want to.

I really find this cake to  be a wonderful choice. Fondant always gives a perfected look, and serves as an extra layer of protection so that it's a bit harder to hurt should anything happen.

Another consideration for the cake includes a flowing ribbon over a square cake, with small lilies made of fondant or frosting adorning the edges. I really love modernized looks at this cake would be perfect if it were ivory. 

Post any flavoring ideas in the comments section!

The Flowers

I've always had a soft spot for stargazer lilies. The innards can easily be removed to prevent pollen from ruining dresses, floors, and tabletops, and the flower itself is obtainable in white, leaving the red for bouquets of roses and babies breath.

For the table spread, a centerpiece of white stargazers and roses can sit in the middle, laying low enough to not be distracting and yet retaining the theme. Ribbons can be mixed in with the assortment and bows can adorn the middle to cut back on the costs of so many flowers.

Bridesmaids can carry smaller groups of these flowers as well, with a draping, flowing form. The circular, stiff, unmoving bridal bouquet is a thing of the past to me. I want the flowers to move as the dresses do, for a flowing feeling. I would like to add a splash of pink or calla lilies to the mix, just to provide more of a color-change to the mix and not quite so contrasting. Ribbons again can be added to these. 

Of course corsages can be the lilies for the women with red bows, and red roses for the men with ivory bows.

The Invitations

Not usually the first place to start, but when you've got mostly everything planned out there's nothing with building your way up to the fun stuff. For the invitations, I'm looking at following the ribbon and bow theme, with ivory, or red coloring and calligraphic writing. We've agreed on one thing so far, the envelopes will be wax sealed with a custom press. As for what it will say? Probably our first initials,  or maybe something else. We haven't gotten that far.

Many invitations that have to do with red are gaudy and absolutely cheap looking. The ones I've chosen have a vintage charm and don't go too overboard.

These two are easily my favorites, the ivory following more with the theme and offering a more coordinated look, while the red being a bit too much, yet still a consideration.

This invitation has a bow as well, and rounded corners which really flow with the vintage look that I'm going for. Again, I feel the red may be too vibrant and too much.

These envelope choices both have a lovely vintage appearance to them, with the red following the theme, yet the ivory feeling more classy. It's still undecided, but again both have a certain appeal I like very much, as long as the postal service can keep their stuff together. Considering we're discussing a red wax seal, I feel as if the ivory will work better.