What Should a Fashionable Groom Wear?

Even though traditionally the focus tends to be on a bride’s wedding dress during the ceremony, that doesn’t mean that the groom’s attire should be neglected or considered less important. Looking stylish on your wedding day doesn’t have to be about the latest trends or a specific dress code – it should be the perfect time to get creative with your personal style and take groom suiting to the next level. 

So, here are some things any modern groom can consider to look fashionable, sleek and polished on his big day:

Investing in a bespoke suit

No matter what you decide to wear or how many components of your outfit you choose to change, fit is always the most important thing. That is why you should treat yourself for your wedding and visit a great tailor, who will sew the best possible suit for your build and your personal taste. If you opt for a bespoke suit, it would be a good idea to choose the 3-piece. That way, you can have a suit jacket when you walk down the aisle, but at the reception when you want to take your jacket off and dance, you will still look elegant and put-together in a vest.

Standing out from the crowd

While your outfits should be complementary, they shouldn’t look like exact copies of each other, so don’t worry too much about matching with your groomsmen. When it comes to you and your entourage, your look should be easily and unmistakably distinguishable from the rest. You can easily achieve this by choosing different accessories, a bold suit color, or even by subtly varying the outfit. For example, you can opt for a suit jacket, while your best men can rock a bow tie and suspenders instead.

Opting for personalized accessories

An easy way to inject some personal style into a wedding ensemble is to choose an interesting and unique accessories to spruce up your overall look. For example, if you opt for a pocket square, make sure it contrasts, instead of matching your neckwear, or if you prefer eye-catching footwear, choose a pair of socks or shoelaces that highlight your personal style best. If you want something less prominent that still reflects your personal style, you can also choose fun cuff links or dainty jewelry pieces. It would be a great idea to consider elegant Japanese watches, as not only are they the ideal accessory to complete any stylish outfit, but they’re also synonymous with high quality, and will last a lifetime.

Experimenting with patterns

Prints and patternsdon’t have to be off-limits, as long as you choose them carefully and tastefully. If you opt for a solid-colored suit, consider adding some personality to your look with a patterned shirt or a printed tie or bow tie. If you decide to be bolder and choose a patterned suit, try pairing it with something classic, such as chalk stripes, or even subtle pastel shades. Regardless of where you incorporate a pattern, offset your look from the rest of the groomsmen by having them wear solid variations.

Elevating your neckwear

As already mentioned, there’s no reason you should confine yourself to solid, one-shade neckwear; you can just as easily opt for textured or patterned pieces that match the color schemes of your wedding. As you consider alternatives to traditional colors, you can also think about different necktie shapes. Even though a classic tie might be the preference for many men, a lot of modern grooms will find that a skinny tie, bow tie, ascot or even a tie-free ensemble suits them better. It truly all comes down to your personal taste and style.

Considering a boutonniere

An accessory you quite probably haven’t seen since your senior prom, boutonnieres are truly classy, elegant and timeless. If you want to add an interesting touch to your outfit with a boutonniere, but you don’t want to look outdated, keep your other accessories minimal and skip the pocket square. Opt for small, dainty flowers, leaves or vines, or even an option that isn’t based on flora, to make it more modern and sleek, while opening up a whole world of opportunity to get creative and express your personal taste.

Instead of sticking to traditional options and what is usually considered the norm, focusing on putting some thought into your wedding day attireand choose an outfit that makes you feel comfortable, confident and like the best version of yourself, because that is truly what you deserve on this very special day.

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 + 

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. 

Aussie Bride Beauty Checklist

Nothing like a wedding to make us want to indulge in a ton of pampering and make sure we look our best. It’s our big day after all, and a bride knows how important it is to feel good in your own skin if you want to shine on all the wedding photos and have a truly memorable ceremony. But how do we prep for the event and what will we need to look spectacular? For Aussie brides and those inspired by their beauty, here’s a list of exactly the things you’ll need to make sure you are gorgeous, relaxed, and totally ready. 

Image: Omar Lopez

Start a workout challenge

Now you have the perfect thing to motivate you! The sooner you start, the better results you’ll get, and if you want to get all firm and toned, pick a workout challenge that you can easily fit into your daily schedule. 

Try cooking more often

Same as with exercise, the sooner you start, the better you’ll feel when the big day finally comes. Also, if you’ve got pounds to shed, it’s much better to do it slowly and steadily than to starve yourself a month before the wedding. Cut down on sugar and processed junk, eat a ton more veggies and cook whenever you can to make sure you always have a healthy meal on your hands.

Consider laser hair removal

This is definitely optional, but it’s a very, very popular procedure in Australia and it’s worth it in the long run. We recommend that you start doing it at least six months before the wedding because it actually takes several treatments to get full results. That way you won’t have to fuss much with unwanted hair and you’ll feel more relaxed both on your wedding day and on your honeymoon. 

Visit your dermatologist as soon as possible

Image: Davids Kokainis

If you’ve got any skin issues, it’s important to address them early so you’d have enough time to deal with them. Acne and wrinkles can be made a lot better if you’re given the proper treatment to deal with them, so schedule an appointment with your doctor and see what they can recommend. In Australia, sun spots are a common problem, so getting professional pigmentation treatment in Sydney is something brides always do before the big day. If you’ve got scarring or spots that you want gone, this can help you out a lot. You can also consider chemical peels and microdermabrasion as a way to smooth out texture and have taut, glowing skin. 

Get regular with your skincare

Now that you’ve got your doctor prescribed treatments and recommendations, it’s time to put it all to good use. Nothing will work unless you are consistent, so forget about lazy days where you go to bed with makeup still on and skipping on moisturizing and cleansing. Seriously, a regular skincare routine is all you need to look radiant, and it will help if you incorporate a good vitamin C serum and remember to wear sunscreen every day. 

Waxing on time

If laser hair removal wasn’t within your budget or you just didn’t have time for it, remember to wax about a week before the wedding. You should also get your eyebrows done around this time as well.

Dry brushing and tanning

Once hair is out of the way, you can apply self-tanner in case you want a summery glow on your skin. Before you do that, we recommend exfoliating with a brush. Do this before you take a shower, just slough away dead cells while the skin is still dry. Once you’re done with the shower, make sure to take proper steps when applying self-tanner so you wouldn’t end up looking patchy. You can renew your tan two-three days before the wedding.

Manicure and pedicure

Do this a few days before the wedding so you won’t have to rush it. Pick some nice, natural shades and make sure that the manicure is long-lasting and that it won’t chip easily.

Image: Allef Vinicius

Hair and face

The evening before the wedding is the perfect time to grab a good hair pack and nourish your hair, and to sit down and relax with a good sheet mask on your face. Rub in a body lotion into your skin and simply take some time to really let go of the stress and feel happy about what’s coming tomorrow. 

A little note about makeup

If a professional is doing your makeup, then make sure you have try-out sessions so you could really pick the look that suits you the best. If you plan to do it on your own, then start practicing months before so you could get the look down perfectly. 

One last tip before we go would be to pay attention to stress management. A big, happy event is coming your way, and stress will only mar the joy of it. So, get regular massages, do yoga, meditate, and start looking forward to the wedding! 

This article is written by Brigitte Evans from highstylife.com

A Beginner's Guide to Wedding Planning

Wedding's can be overwhelming. There is a lot to do, a lot to plan, and even more to worry about.   Wedding planners can assist wherever possible, and make the bride and groom's lives much simpler. But before you can get to that stage, it is important to be prepared and at least think about certain aspects of your wedding. 

Photo by Starlight Productions

The dream

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Some brides have been planning their weddings since they were children. They probably have countless Pinterest boards, follow every wedding Instagram account available, and have a scrapbook of ideas at home that they've been filling up for years. Perhaps you are not one of these people. Regardless, it's important to know what you want before you talk to a wedding planner, because they won't be able to tell you what you want.

The guests

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Other than the bride and groom, the next most important people at any wedding are the guests. Generally close family and friends of the couple, the guests make up the majority of the party, and will determine the size and rowdiness of the ceremony. It's a good idea to at least know the number of guests you intend to bring, if not the exact names, before heading to a wedding planner.

Photo by Chris Hall photography

Photo by Chris Hall Photography

The budget

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One of the biggest worries about planning a wedding is the overall cost. Most people know that weddings are expensive, but it's useful to know how much you would like to spend. Even if it's only an estimate, and it does change as time goes on and plans change, it's better to know what your limits are at the beginning.

The ceremony

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Do you want a large ceremony, or a small one? Do you want it to be a grand, sweeping epic, with dramatic music and thousands of flowers, or a more low-key, intimate event, with a minimalist style and only your very closest friends and family members? Before you start talking to the professionals, try and get an idea of what you picture the ceremony will look like, so once the wedding planner starts asking questions, you can at least answer some of them.

Photo by Angelic Studio

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Written by Jessica Kennedy.