Our Chicago partner, David Rothstein wrote this fun blog post and encouraged us to share with our readers. It’s about “10 simple ways to have great momentum for your wedding.” Being from Chicago, David originally focused on “Chicago Weddings” yet we think it’s good info that can be appreciated by anyone.

Wedding bandleader or wedding planner. They will keep all your vendors on schedule and in the right place at the right time. This leadership will keep the energy of your Wedding moving along. The larger the crowd the more crucial this is.
Photos Courtesy of David Rothstein and Scott Hagar Photography
Finding tidbits of information for the groom or from the groom’s perspective can be tricky. We wouldn’t even know where to begin to write from a man’s point of view. So when we came across this article from www.manregistery.com on “What Grooms Won’t Do,” we had to share…
1. Say “Fab” – No matter how “fab” something is … no matter how hard you try to drill it voodoo-style into our vocabulary … we’ll never say it. There could be a million Swarovski crystals hanging from a single centerpiece … we still won’t say it. It’s not you. It’s us.
2. Multitask At Your Level – Somewhere in our DNA we lack the chromosome that allows us to have six browser windows open while simultaneously emailing our wedding party, texting the photographer, faxing contracts, and phone conferencing with vendors. So pat us on the head and let us work at our own pace.
3. Cry Over Minor Milestones – We may tear up on the day, but don’t expect us to cry when we book the old school photo booth. We’re excited about it, too, but our lacrimal glands are limited — we need to save up our tears for the big day. We do that for you.
4. Help Plan Your Bachelorette Party – This doesn’t apply to every bride … but some do like their man’s advice when planning their last night of single womanhood. We won’t do it. It’s not that we’re uncomfortable with the idea. And we’re certainly not jealous, no matter how many police officers in tear away pants you may hire. We’re just afraid that you’ll want to reciprocate and help plan our bachelor party. And that’s just not an option.
5. Admit How Involved We Are – We know. You’re just thrilled that you are the one bride among all your bride friends who has the guy who’s involved. And, without hesitation, you’ll announce this at social gatherings, game nights, double dates, shindigs and soirees — but we won’t admit to it. We’ll laugh and deny it and quickly change the subject, especially in mixed company. So let’s keep our enthusiasm between us.
Source: ManRegistry.com
Photograph courtesy of Jai Girard Photography, Chicago
Looking for that “something” that will really make your wedding feel like a fairy-tale? Look no more, lighting is the answer! This luxury is a small price to pay for a big and bold statement. Whether you’re having an afternoon reception of hors d’oeuvres and mimosas, or a seated dinner affair at 8, the simple addition of lighting can be transformational. Lighting can be used to give a cold room a sense of warmth and glow, or change an elegant ballroom into a personal fashion statement for you and your hip groom.
This couple used Jordan Payne Events to transform The Worthington Hotel in Fort Worth, Texas into an exotic lounge. Fun, Flirty, Creative…Clearly, this was an event no one could forget with such stunning lighting. Absolutely an art form!
Jordan Payne Events provided this classic wedding look shown below as well. Here is an example of more subtle lighting, a look well suited for the simple and elegant bride. With warm golden tones, this lighting will surely make your guests feel welcome, invited and comfortable. Beautiful with all wedding colors, especially those in the warm color family (reds, gold/yellow, browns, etc.), and complimented by the beautiful chandelier in Arlington Hall at Lee Park in Dallas, Texas. Timeless!
Next time you’re brainstorming ways to add that “special touch” to your reception, remember, don’t skimp on lighting. It’s worth every penny!
Source: Katy Brooks
Photography by Gary Donihoo of f8Studio
Photography by Joseph Ellis of Joseph Mark Photography
StrictlyWeddings.com was contacted by Gilles Montezin a New York designer, originally from Paris, who wanted to be one of our exclusive bridal gown partners. We’re still in the building stage for New York, but wanted to share some of the designer’s work from his Opera Collection with our fans.
The Gilles Montezin bridal collection pays homage to the art form of opera by bringing together a complex combination of drama, sensuality, femininity and emotion; all of the characteristics found in the most beloved operatic productions. Based on a design philosophy that focuses on the curvature of the female body this collection features classic couture tailoring. This collection also introduces an optional body shaper Le Cinch™; an abbreviated interpretation of the traditional corset that nearly doubles its predecessor’s figure-enhancing effects. Le Cinch accompanies every dress in the collection so every bride can achieve the perfect hourglass silhouette with unprecedented comfort. The fabrics of each dress are manipulated to produce textures and opulence rarely found in bridal attire. The romantic silhouettes are designed to accentuate and celebrate the female form.
Keeping within the tradition of Gilles Montezin ready-to-wear, signature details for each dress include antique lace linings, intricate hand stitching, elaborate construction and lush fabrics. Creative Director, Gilles Montezin believes everything touching a woman’s body must be beautiful inside and out. The collection is designed for the discerning, sophisticated bride. Sizes are available up to 18W. Larger sizes are available via special order.
And now for something completely different in the world of wedding invitations!
Two betrothed German geeks/gamers just upped the ante when it comes to wedding invitations.
The pair, who shared their story with Offbeat Bride, programed two versions of a Mario-inspired 8-bit video game as their wedding invitations and sent them out to friends and family. Guests are also challenged to beat the game should they wish to unlock the wedding details.