How To Personalise Your Wedding For Your Guests

 As much as this is your day, and no one will take that away from you or upstage you, the one thing you shouldn’t place at the bottom of the list is your guests. After all, these people make the wedding what it is – with their presence, their energy, and hence deserve to be honored. They are there to celebrate and witness your commitment; therefore, their happiness, joy and of course, thoughtful party favors should be near the top of your priority list. 

Just in case you’re swamped planning all the other details of your wedding, such as the photography, the perfect venue, catering, décor and wedding attireand beauty department, we’re here with an incredible list of thoughtful ideas that will make your guests feel highly cherished. It’s time to show them how much their presence means to you. 

Starting before the beginning 

The best way to set a personal tone long before the wedding is with personalized save the date cards and/or invitations. Contrary to popular belief, this doesn’t have to break the bank. You can choose the cards and invites that speak to your personality, but you can perhaps include a hand-written note with an inside joke or something sentimental to each of your guests, or even include a photo in the envelope to show them that this particular invite was meant just for them. 

The mandatory step 

Instead of simply placing numbers on the tables, walk the extra mile and have individual place cards with everyone’s name on them. You may not think these things matter all that much, but they show your guests that you’ve thought of them and made sure they sit at the best place for them. Also, take your time with the seating chart and ensure that all the people who are placed together are in friendly terms. This will make the conversation flow, and people will have much more fun when they’re seated next to someone they know and love. 

The little things that mean the world 

Whether you are planning on a big or a small wedding, centerpiecesare a must-have. However, instead of the uniformed centerpieces, perhaps you can dig through your memories and think which flowers are your guests’ favorites. Of course, you don’t want to throw off the entire color palette by having completely different centerpieces, but compromise can always be found. If you’re for instance, going for white flowers, make sure you go for a variety in terms of the types of flowers so every table feels like you did something special for them. 

To cherish and to use 

Party favors should never be chosen at the last minute. Trust us, when you do something at quarter to twelve, it shows, and your guests will know it. There are tons of gorgeous party favor ideas, from personalized phone cases, magnets they can put on their fridge, a voucher for an upcoming event. Another amazing idea, that is both practical, useful and meaningful if quality cosmetics packages placed in gorgeous gift bags. 

If you’re throwing a French-themed wedding, for instance, the venue will probably have an abundance of French things like lavender, chic tablecloths, stemless wine glasses and all things French. To give them a little touch of Provence to take home, hand or facial creams, body mists or massage oils from the incredible L’Occitane linewill make for a perfect wedding memento. For the gentlemen, you can incorporate shaving creams or a fragrance – all depending on your knowledge of their taste. It will be a gift that will remind them of the gorgeous day every time they use it, and they will use it frequently. 

An extra dose of personalized fun 

Sure, eventually, when you get to it, you will send your guests your wedding photos via email. However, people love to have an instant memento they can take home, which is why renting out a photo booth is an awesome investment. They can take silly photos with different masks and goofy props, and even the two of you can pop inside the booth and be in the photos as well. Make sure you stock up on those masks and props, because trust us, there will be people who will want to take them home. 

Last, but not least 

Traditionally, weddings include a plethora of people from different generations and different tastes in music. We know it’s your day and you want the kind of music that the two of you can dance it out to, but don’t be oblivious to your guest’s desires too. If some oldies should be included for all the moms, grandparents and cousins, so be it. The playlist should include more than the top 50 dance hits. In this aspect, you should be a people pleaser and have everyone’s music taste in mind. In the end, you want a full dancefloor of happy people having fun, correct? Well, then pay special attention to your wedding playlist. 

Giving back to those who came to celebrate you on one of the biggest days of your life isn’t difficult. It simply takes a little consideration and attention to detail. If you can plan an entire wedding from scratch, you can include these little things as well. It won’t hurt you, but it will show your guests just how much you appreciate them being there.  

About The Author

Sophia Smith is a fashion and beauty blogger, a graphic designer and a DIY enthusiast. Design plays a huge role in her personal expression. Also, she focusing on minimalism and good quality. Sophia love sharing content that inspires people. She has contributed to a number of publications including: Viva Glam Magazine, Just Haves, Secret Garden, Cause Artist, How to Simplify and Carousel.

You can find out more about her writing by following her on: Facebook  Twitter  Google +

A Guide To Grooming for The Groom

As the groom, the effort you need to put into looking your best for the big day might not seem too stressful. After all, the focus of most of your wedding guests is going to be on your beautiful, blushing bride, who has no doubt read up on every beauty checklist she could find. 

However, while all eyes are going to be on her, it’s important to remember that she’ll only have eyes for you. It’s the moment that she’ll remember forever - the day that you both vowed to love each other forever, in good times and in bad. You’ll want to make sure that the picture she saves in her memory is a good one.

Here are some tips to make sure you look sharp. 

Get Fit

If you have a few months before your nuptials, set some fitness goals for yourself and get into a workout routine. Getting in shape does more than help you tone up or slim down, it helps to boost your confidence and works as an effective stress reliever. Your workout could be as simple as going for a walk on lunch, or as intensive as setting up time with a personal trainer. It all depends on the goals that you set for yourself. Plus, if your bride-to-be is looking for ways to slim down and fit into her dream dress, developing a fitness plan can be something you do together!

Take Care of Your Skin      

 Skincare is essential in looking and feeling your best. The last thing you want is to be dealing with a stress-induced breakout on the day of your wedding. Take steps to maintain a clear complexion by making sure to follow a regular skin care routine with a standard facial cleanser and moisturizer. If you can, try not to use any new products too soon before you say your ‘I do’s’, since a change in product can cause more breakouts.

For many men, shaving is another component in taking care of their skin. Since your bride-to-be probably doesn’t have experience in best practices for facial shaving, it’s mostly up to you to make sure that you shave properly. Improper shaving practices can cause you to breakout, so it’s important that you alternate out your razor every 6-8 weeks, store it in a dry place away from your shower to avoid bacteria build-up caused by water exposure, and properly navigate the grains of your facial hair. 

The Small Details Matter Most

As the groom, you don’t generally have to worry about a range of dress options since your go-to is going to be a simple black tuxedo. With your outfit pretty much decided, the small details in your appearance are what truly matters. This means making sure that your teeth, nails and eyebrows are all groomed to perfection. 

Imagine it’s time to complete your vows and have your bride put on your wedding ring only for her to see your dirty fingernails - yuck! Make a spa day with your bride-to-be and treat yourself to a mani-pedi. If you want to save money, try having a DIY beauty night at home. Also, consider switching out your toothpaste for one with whitening qualities or trying out whitening strips.

While everyone’s telling the bride she looks like a princess - you’ll look like the proper prince she deserves.

Perfect Presents for the Bridesmaids and Groomsmen

Planning a wedding is an overwhelming and high-stress few months. You become consumed by cake options, buying decorations, finding the perfect photographer and a lot of other small details. Luckily, you have a group of trusted friends and family members to help offer you support every step of the way. So, even if you are feeling the stress of planning, you cannot forget thank you gifts for your wedding party. After all, they organize and throw your bachelor(ette) parties and a wedding shower! So, we’ve put together a list of a few thoughtful presents for every budget, to help you show your appreciation to your wedding party.

 Accessories

Image by Dahlia & Grace Photography

Gifting your bridesmaids and groomsmen accessories that can be worn for your wedding day and long after, shows them that you put a lot of thought into thanking them. The last thing you want to do is give them something that they will feel obligated to hold onto but won’t want to use after your special day ends. 

Jewellery will always be a timeless gift for the bridesmaids. If you want to give your girls something that can be worn in the wedding, sticking with something simple is best. A pair of earrings with a matching necklace is a perfect and affordable present. Your girls will have plenty of options to wear this set long after your wedding. If you want to gift the bridesmaids something that they won’t be wearing for the wedding and get something more in line with their personal style, consider a charm braceletfeaturing their favorite quote, color or animal. Putting in a little extra care to get something you know they will love is perfect to show your appreciation.

Your groomsmen will look dapper with a matching tie bar and cufflink set, get yourself a set as well, and the whole crew will look on-point! Plus, you can personalize these ones with their first initial, this will offer them a gift that they will want to wear to every formal occasion from now on.

If you want a fun and casual photo opportunity for your whole wedding party, then look into getting sunglasses for everyone by ordering in bulk. This will save you money and time, by making one simple purchase for every person in your wedding. And you will be bringing the whole group together by giving them a matching gift that can be worn for a fun photoshoot.

Outings 

Image by Dahlia & Grace Photography

To thank your wedding party and show off just how well you know them, gift them each an experience you know they will enjoy. After months of helping you plan, maybe a few out of your crew need a relaxing spa day. You can head to a local spa and get gift certificates for massages, manicures or pedicures. Or if your wedding party is full of foodies, then grab certificates at a new local eatery for them to try. This is another idea that has endless options, although it may be more pricey, it is thoughtful and will take very little time out of your planning schedule to achieve! 

Gift Baskets

If you and your fiancé are frugal and crafty, then look no further than Pinterest. The options are truly endless here and give you the perfect opportunity to get personal and thoughtful. So, have a fun night in with your fiancé crafting each bridesmaid and groomsmen their own gift basket. Maybe your maid-of-honor loves to be in her kitchen, cooking and baking any chance she can get. Throw together a basket full of tea towels, measuring cups, a rolling pin and spices! Or if one of your groomsmen is a movie buff, make a basket full of DVDs of current releases and popcorn, candy and soda to set him up for a night of binge watching.

Thanking the wedding party is a necessary task, but it doesn’t have to add any more stress to you or blow out your wedding budget. The bridesmaids and groomsmen support you from the moment you are engaged until the minute the reception ends. By giving them a thoughtful present you are thanking them for their hard work and friendship over the months leading up to your special day. 

The inside life of a Chef at Boulevard Gardens

Here at Boulevard Gardens, we pride ourselves on not only our providing our lovely couples and guests with beautiful locations for their special day, but also on the quality of the food we produce. Not long ago we sat down with Vincent, the chef here at Boulevard Gardens, to talk about all things food.

How long have you been a chef for and where did you complete your apprenticeship? 

After graduating high school in my hometown - Malaysia, I decided I wanted to pursue my career as a Chef, as cooking is something i've always had a passion and talent for. I was lucky to receive a full-time apprenticeship straight after high school. With all of the sweat and tears (only from cutting onions...) came a tonne of knowledge, and I graduated as a Chef when I was 19 years of age. After my apprenticeship I was lucky enough to score a position at a 5 star hotel in Malaysia. I gained a lot of knowledge, tips, experience, and tricks from the best in the Industry. I say the "best" in the industry, as the Executive Chefs came from Europe to work with us from the very beginning. With a lot of hard work, a lot of competition and a lot of hurdles to overcome, I ended up excelling in my career and have continued to succeed ever since. 

What are your top 3 favourite dishes from Boulevard Gardens?

I think that's a very difficult question, as every single dish at Boulevard Gardens is mouth-watering, fresh and unique. A lot of time, effort and love goes into each dish at Boulevard, but if I had to choose, I would say: 

1. Wild Barramundi; topped with macadamia nut and pesto crust. 

2. The Vegetarian Risotto. 

3. Either the Chocolate Mousse; topped with raspberries OR the Baked New York Cheesecake. 

What is your favourite ingredient to work with? 

Growing up, I thought salt belonged in a shaker at the table, and nowhere else. I always used to think that salt was the strangest, most unusual thing in the world. Since working as a Chef, and experiencing first-hand the transformative power of salt, that's when I realised that it is an essential ingredient whilst working in the kitchen. Like I tell my colleagues, "No salt, no cooking". 

What's the most important part of your job?

There are many "important" parts of my job, especially as a Chef! However, the most crucial elements of my work are timing and accuracy. 

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Written by Chloe. Produced by Jessica Kennedy. 

The Wedding of S & S

Greenery and Blush

The Love Story

It was a sunny Autumn day here at the Boulevard Gardens when S & S celebrated the beginning of their lives as a husband and wife. The love and happiness on their special night was captured by Justin Taylor from Chris Hall Photography. Here is a little sneak peek in to our lovely couple's Wedding day.

At Boulevard we know that it has to be true love to move across the world for the one you love. This is how the love story of S & S began and nestled away in the hidden, enchanted garden, was where they looked in to each others eyes and said, “I do”. 

The Wedding

The Wedding of S & S was styled with the elegant combination of greenery and pink details. The stunning bride arrived in a convertible car wearing a gorgeous lace dress and beautiful pale pink heels. Different shades of pink on the bridal bouquet as well as on the grooms tie, pocket square and boutonnière tied the adorable details together. 

The ceremony was held in our magical Wedding garden followed by an intimate reception for 30 guests. Our stunning couple chose a trendy long table for their little pop up wedding and it was styled with the same whimsical theme of blush and greenery. Lanterns, pink details and a lush garland across the table, is all you need for an elegant reception. The simple place cards and the little olive branches were a cute addition to the styling. Safe to say that we loved everything about this adorable and intimate Wedding.

Congratulations S & S on your special day. We wish you love, laughter, and happily ever after. 

Written by Anna Vitikainen. Images by Justin Taylor, Chris Hall Photography.

Top 3 Tips for Planning Your Dream Wedding on a Budget

Breaking down your wedding budget can be hard, and sticking to it - even harder. But we've got some expert advice for couples who want to hear wedding bells while staying within budget. 

Whether you're planning an intimate elopement, or a sizeable celebration, our top three wedding planning tips will ensure your big day will be beautiful and budget-friendly. 

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1. Decide Upon Your Budget First

Before couples begin their wedding planning, we recommend that they first sit down and decide upon the amount they would ideally like to spend on their wedding day. If their parents wish to contribute to the wedding, it is a good idea to speak about how much they would like to pitch in before the planning begins. 

By settling on a budget early, it will help guide the decision making throughout the planning process. It will also allow couples to calculate a savings plan, so that they can successfully fund their special day (sans the added interest from credit cards).

2. Prioritise What Matters Most

Take time to consider which aspects of the wedding day are most important to you both. Write down the aspects that matter most, and note the things you are both willing to be flexible with. 

Would you be happy to walk the aisle without a live musician, but would love some ceremony styling? Or maybe you'd love to host more guests at your reception, so you would be happier for a more affordable menu option - or vice versa. 

Keeping a list of priorities on hand throughout the planning process will help guide couples when they are settling any conflicting costs. By compromising on some aspects of their wedding, they allow themselves to invest in the elements that matter to them most. 

3. Weigh In On Your Venue Options

Statistics show that a wedding reception accounts for roughly 50 per cent of the overall wedding cost. It's important that couples assess which wedding venue will be the best fit for their style preferences and their budget.  

Pay particular interest to what the venue can offer within their package inclusions, as these small extras can lead to big savings. For example, what decor and styling does the venue offer in-house? Do they include centrepieces, tea lights, mirror bases, or chair sashes? Is there a room hire or cleaning fee? Is AV included, or will you need to hire a sound system and microphones? 

If you are flexible with your date, many venues offer special packages for off-peak seasons such as summer and winter. On a similar thread, if you are open to a range of catering options, many venues can also offer more budget-friendly menus; such as a high tea menu, or a two course dinner menu with your wedding cake served for dessert. 

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We hope our these tips help you plan the wedding of your dreams, without the hefty price tag. 

Until next time... 

Written by Rachel Westbury. Image by Jason Briscoe.