All Posts in “Wedding Tips”

15 TOP “FIRST DANCE” WEDDING SONGS

December 2, 2013 / no comments

15 TOP “FIRST DANCE” WEDDING SONGS

With the wedding season coming to an end, we decided to blog about the top 15 songs we heard as the “First Dance Song”. The New, The Old, The Best of the top “First dance” Songs!

Click the title for the video:

1. Marry me- Train

2. A Thousand Years- Christina Perri

3. Everything- Michael Buble

4.Marry you- Bruno Mars

5.Can’t Help falling in Love – Elvis Presley

*** Check out the UB40 version as well.

6. Endless Love- Diana Ross & Lionel Richie

7. Unchained Melody- The Righteous Brothers

8. A moment Like this- Kelly Clarkson

9.How do I live without You- LeAnn Rimes

10. God Must have spent a Little more time on you- NSYNC

11. I won’t Give Up- Jason Mraz

12. This I promise You- NSYNC

13. From this Moment- Shania Twain

14. Everything I do-Bryan Adams

15. Marry me- Jason Derulo

Happy Planning! Contact us today

Drinking etiquette at weddings

September 11, 2013 / no comments

Drinking Etiquette at Weddings

September is a busy month with weddings and RSVP would like everyone to enjoy it responsibly. As a couple, we would like for you to keep a few things in mind when entertaining your guests. As a guest to a wedding, we would like for you to be responsible. Enjoy the wedding with these simple things in mind.

Brides and grooms:

Control the amount of drinks your guests consume at your wedding. Even with an open bar, you can control how much a guests can drink. Have the bar open during the cocktail period for about an hour and half. Offer signature drinks if possible. This will limit hard liquor been consumed right at the very beginning of the event. Close the bar during dinner for a period of 2 hours. And open it up again after the dinner. We recommend offering your guests wine during the dinner.

Offer signature drinks during cocktail period

Offer Food during the cocktail period to balance the drinking. You can be creative with this and incorporate your wedding theme. Make it cute! Offer food again for a late night snack while the party is in full motion. Popular items for this is : Poutine, cocktail sandwiches, pizza, veggie platters etc.

Have a limited selection to your bar instead of a fully stocked bar. For example you can have one type of beer/ House wine (Red & White) and Pop. Which ever selection you choose to have, make it limited one. Do not allow your guests to do shots. Ask the venue or bar tender to monitor this.

Book your wedding reception preferably at a hotel so you can offer guests options to stay at the hotel, or choose a venue that is close to a hotel or some sort of accommodation. Ask your venue if they have partnered with hotels so you can take advantage of special rates. You can also call hotels directly to inquiry about special rates. Pass this information on to your guests when you have it. And on the night of the wedding ask the MC/ DJ to make an announcement about the accommodation arrangements that guests have. Your guests will appreciate it.

Use services such as Responsible choice! They will drive you and your car home! Make this number available to your guests as well as a taxi number!

Guests

Don’t drink and drive. Book a hotel room if you can.
Have a designated drive with you
Call a taxi to get you home (make this arrangement before you leave your house)
Control your drinking. It is a wedding, don’t do anything we wouldn’t do!

Photos: Pinterest

Happy Wedding! Call RSVP Events to plan your next event!

5 Reasons to Hire a Professional Vendor for your Wedding

June 14, 2013 / no comments

FRIDAY TIPS: 5 Reasons to Hire a Professional Vendor for your Wedding

Time and time again, we hear couples saying “I have a friend that can DJ for us”, or “I have someone from my workplace that is trying to be a photographer and we have seen what she can do. We will ask her to take photos on the day”. Does this photographer have the proper lighting equipment? Will they spend hours editing your photos? What if that DJ plays the wrong song while you are walking down the aisle? Too late!

We have several reasons why we recommend hiring a professional for any event. Here are our top reasons:

Newly Weds

1. Guarantee: With a professional vendor, you will get the guarantee of not only having the vendor show up for your wedding day, but they would also be delivering great service or products. If your friend suddenly becomes ill or is unable to attend your event due to personal reasons, what will you do? I have seen guests RSVP for a wedding, and suddenly something happens the day before or on the day and they can not make it. Most professionals have back up plans which are normally outlined on your contract. Don’t take a risk!

2. Peace of Mind: You will get the peace of mind knowing that everything will be taken care of on the day. This should give you a chance to relax and just enjoy the day. It will go by so fast, why not enjoy it. Remember why you are getting married in the first place. With the right team of vendors you can rest assured the cake will arrive on time, the right flowers will get delivered and that you will get quality service.

Inspiration Cake

3. Knowledgeable: The right team will know exactly what to do should a crisis arise. If one of your vendors does not show up, a wedding planner will be able to find a replacement because of the large network they have. A professional will also have a detailed time line that will outline the step by step plan of the day. This will ensure a smooth day.

4. Friendship: Say you didn’t like the work your friends produced or the DJ played the wrong song for your first dance. Its now after the wedding and you are not sure how to approach them because you are too upset or just do not want to hurt their feelings. You do not want to make the friendship you hold with your friend seem awkward. Avoid this by hiring a certified professional.

Inspiration Flower

5. Enjoy your wedding: Let your friends enjoy your wedding too. The reasons you invite someone to your wedding is to share the special day with them. Relax and enjoy the day with those that you love.

Happy Planning.

5 Common Budget Questions

June 3, 2013 / no comments

5 Common Budget Questions

Source: Photo

Here are a list of 5 common questions most couples tend to ask in regards to their Wedding.

1. My Parents and future in-laws wish to contribute to the wedding financially. Do they have the rights to say how I spend the money they give me?

The answer is yes. Most parents will decide not to say anything but others will want to be involved. Here are a few tips to work with and guide them through the process. This will also reduce any tension during the planning process should you have any disagreement. If your parents are paying for the entire wedding, provide them with a list of your top 2 vendors in each category. Include all the pros and cons of each vendor so they have a better understanding to why you are choosing them (this should include quotes, the style of wedding that you prefer, what is included in each vendor package and which items are not included.) This will make them feel included in the decision making.

If your parents are providing a set amount, lets say $5000.00, please thank them and ask them where they would like you to spend this money. This will also make them feel as though they were involved in the decision making.

2. What if my family members do not come through with the finances that we were promised?

We suggest asking for the money when you are ready to make a purchase. You can also have your parents send the money directly to the vendors if this will make it comfortable for them. You can also let them know that you have started the wedding planning and budgeting process and would like to know when to expect their part of the checks for deposits. Always have a back up plan in case your parents finances change and they are unable to come through. Things do happen. If you were really counting on their help and they are not able to provide, be prepared to change your wedding vision to meet your new budget.

3. How can I avoid going over budget?

We highly recommend hiring an event planner as they have great relationships with vendors that can save you a lot of money. Keep track of everything you are spending. This can quickly add up. The number of guests you have at your wedding can affect how much you spend. Look out for hidden fees or fees that you were not aware of, as this may not have been included in your budget (Tips, gratuities, taxes, etc)

4. Is it okay to negotiate a price or ask vendors for discounts?

You can always try. Some vendors do run specials in the low season, take advantage of this. Always tell your vendors what your budget is! They may be able to customize a package that works within your budget. Some vendors may not necessarily reduce the price or give a discount, but they may be able to add value. For example, a Photographer may include a $250.00 engagement shoot with a purchase of a full photography package worth $2500.00.

5. What is the Most expensive time of the year to get married?

Summer is the most expensive time, with weddings taking place between May and October. Lots of Brides are competing for venues and vendors around this time. Still want to have a summer wedding? Opt to have your wedding on a Thursday, Friday evening or a Sunday.

Happy Planning!

Cheers!
RSVP Events | Ottawa Wedding Planner
c: (613) 807-7787

Silk Flowers

May 30, 2013 / 3 comments

Silk Floral- Wedding Bouquets

Why are so many Brides turning to silk bouquets? Well there are a few easy answers to this question.

Firstly it’s the cost, Silk floral arrangements will cost you 50% less or more than it will to buy fresh flowers from a florist. Its not a secret that the economy has been hurting us for sometime and when it comes to a wedding, finding ways to cut down some costs just about anywhere in the entirety of the wedding is a must.

Another reason is that they last forever, just like the love for your new husband. Silk floral arrangements or a bouquet is like adding another keepsake element for those in your wedding party and parents. After the wedding is over, each bouquet gets to travel home with its owner and spice up a nice living room or bedroom for an adding décor element. Rarely a Bridesmaid will throw out her silk floral bouquet, instead she keep it as a keepsake or memory of your special day.

You don’t have to worry about your floral arrangements losing color, petals or looking like they are dying by the end of the night or next day. Silk floral will remain fresh and beautiful until your entire wedding is complete regardless if it lasts over 7 days down south or for the 2^nd day during your trash the dress photo shoot. The floral will outlive any extra time added to your special day.

Another good reason for some is that you don’t have to worry about the color, you can choose any PMS color under the sun you would like. So whether you want, black, silver, grey, mauve, purple, brown, and even Tiffany blue, you don’t have to worry about finding the closest color to your theme colors or substitute another color into your wedding.

And of course, if you are big into DIY weddings, you can even have a girls’ night and everyone can try and make their own!

RSVP events will help your with all your floral needs

WAIT….I cannot end this blog before discussing some benefits to having fresh floral.

Of course one of the most wonderful things about having fresh floral is the smell. The beautiful smell of fresh floral can add so much beauty and happiness to a room. Another nice thing about fresh floral is that you can buy them just about anywhere. You are not limited to where and how to receive them.

Many Wedding couples are concerned about the appearance of their Silk Floral, but this should not be a worry. Artificial flowers can come in very rugged looking like the ones you would buy at the dollar store but silk flowers is very different and most of the time, no one will even notice the difference.

What do you think? What would you prefer? Call RSVP today for all your silk flower needs! We will have a quote ready for you!

Source: Kate Said yes/ Wedding Flowers/ Silk Flowers

Yoga for the Bride

May 27, 2013 / no comments

Yoga for the Bride to be!

Wedding season is now in full play. We believe that every bride should take a deep breath and relax before the wedding. Feeling overwhelmed or stressed? Why don’t you enjoy some yoga to relax? We would like to thank Andrea Lee from Andrea Lee Photography and her team of vendors for sharing this fun style shoot based on yoga.

Vendor Love:

Happy Planning!

Wedding Day Coordinator, Why do I need one?

April 29, 2013 / no comments

Wedding Day Coordinator, Why do I need one?

Wedding season has begun. We know you are running around, trying to get last minute tasks done. You planned everything right up to now, that’s fantastic! You are very creative and have always dreamed of planning your own wedding. And you want all your plans to come together as envisioned, on your actual wedding day. Your guests are usually unaware of everything going on behind the scenes to make sure everything is running as smoothly as planned.

Who is that person doing the running around? Who is giving direction to all the vendors making sure the right song is been played at the right time, that dinner is ready to go out for 6:30pm, or making sure the microphone is working for the Father of the Groom’s speech? You need someone to manage the day, making sure the caterer, the DJ, the decorators and photographers are all in place. Wait, where is the wedding cake?

So do I need a certified Wedding Coordinator?

You are now thinking a friend or reliable family member can coordinator your wedding. Why not? You are saving money right? That family member or friend was invited by you to enjoy the wedding day. Not to work. You don’t want them leaving at the end of the evening, feeling like they just worked a 12 hour shift, missing out on your first kiss, the cake cutting, group photos and much more. Sure they will say yes to help you. What friend would say no?

My venue has a coordinator?

Unless you have paid your venue coordinator extra to make sure they are coordinating your wedding day, they are most likely not going to do this. We mentioned earlier, this is a 12 hour or more job, (since we have to meet you up to a month before to ensure all contracts are revised and in place). The venue coordinator is there to ensure the venue is delivering what they promised. Which is the food and beverage, the setup of the venue (based on the floor plan you provide) and in most cases scheduling staff. They are not there to call the cake person, or the DJ to make sure they are coming to set up on time. Before assuming that the venue coordinator will coordinate your wedding plans, make sure you ask them before signing the contract. The venue coordinator and a wedding planner work together to ensure your wedding runs smoothly!

Does the wedding coordinator need to be professional or certified?

A professional and certified wedding planner is a trained person that has the background in wedding planning. They have either gone to school for this or have years of experience. They are well trained to take action in various situations that may occur, should anything happen. This makes them trustworthy to plan the one big day of your life. They are a neutral person at the wedding and do not need to worry about hurting anyone’s feelings if something does go wrong.

RSVP Events is certified through the Wedding Planners Institute of Canada and ABC.

Are you still asking whether you should hire a wedding planner?

The answer is yes! If you can’t hire a wedding planner for the full planning, at least get someone professional for the wedding day Coordination. This will give you peace of mind and you will look cool! You hired a wedding planner after all.

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Source: Society Bride

BRIDAL BEAUTY: Manis & Pedis

April 19, 2013 / no comments

BRIDAL BEAUTY: Manis & Pedis

You have your hair stylist booked, your makeup trial done! Don’t forget those nails! On your wedding day, your hands will constantly be on the show. The photographer will take close up photos of you holding the bouquet, the exchange of the wedding bands, the signing of the registry; nothing worse than seeing a chipped nail. Don’t forget to moisturise your hands. When it comes to wedding manicures, we prefer looks that are clean and simple. That should not stop you from adding some art if that is what you like.

– We recommend getting your manicure done a day or 2 before your wedding day. Not only will it give you time to get other things done, but it will look newly done.

– Getting your hands and nails well taken care of weeks before your wedding day, will go a long way. You can do this at home, by constantly moisturising your hands, ensuring your hands are not dry, eating healthy and drinking lots of water.

– We recommend going to a nail salon you’ve gone to before. If you don’t go to a salon often, look up a few places, try one and see how it goes.

– You have brittle nails? Try having gel nails applied, this usually helps to strengthen and protect the nail from damage.

Oh, don’t forget the pedicure!

Source: Pinterest

Source: Weddbook

Source: Ivillage

Source: Pink Chocolate Break

Source: Weddbook

Source: Louboutin Nails

What kind of nails are you planning on rocking on your big day?

Happy Planning! @divineplanner85

Shopping for a Wedding Dress

April 5, 2013 / no comments

Shopping for a Wedding Dress

Congratulations on your engagement! Shopping for your wedding dress should be fun and stress free. Who doesn’t like to shop? Brides tend to feel overwhelmed while shopping for their wedding dresses because it is a big deal!

One of our brides recently shared some Fab news with us, she found “The Dress!” We are extremely excited for her and we are currently counting down the days to her wedding day. Before going out shopping , here are a few things we suggest you do.

Research Wedding Gowns! – Do some research prior to going out, this will give you an idea of what it is you are really looking for. Attend a bridal show; they usually put on fashion shows that will give you a better idea of what it is you may want. Wedding blogs, wedding magazines, all provide a wealth of knowledge about dresses- styles, pricing, designs and what not to do. Know what you are looking for before going to any bridal shop. We recommend taking a magazine clip or a few photos of wedding dresses that you like. This is a good start…

Wedding Style! – A few factors can affect what dress you choose to wear on your wedding day. A very formal ceremony normally calls for a floor length gown and sometimes a long train. If you are doing a destination wedding, a shorter gown is most appropriate. Are you looking for a pure white wedding dress? We are seeing a lot of wedding gowns that range from pure white to ivory to champagne to blush pink. Choose a color that you feel most comfortable in.

Decide on the shape of your dress. Wedding dresses are made in several different silhouettes; Ball gowns tend to have a fuller skirt, A-lines usually have a fitted bodice with a skirt that flares. An empire waist gown has a skirt that falls from just below the bust line. Sheath is usually long and straight and is best worn on a fit bride. A mermaid shape hugs the body and flares at the knees. Choose something that flatters your figure and brings out the best in you.

Budget! – Even if you are not sure how much the dress will cost, just having a general idea of what you would like to spend always helps. 8% to 10% of your wedding budget is what we recommend setting aside for your wedding attire (Wedding dress, wedding shoes, jewelry etc.). Try to stick to your budget.

Looking for a place to shop in Ottawa? Here are a few bridal shops we love:

Dominique Levesque Bridal

Luxe Bridal Boutique

With Love Bridal Boutique

The Handmade bride

Mia Bridal Co.

Happy Planning!

Recently Engaged? Now what?

April 1, 2013 / no comments

Recently Engaged? Now what?

You recently just got engaged. Congratulations! You are now asking yourself, “What should I do next? “

1. Share the news. We suggest sharing this wonderful information with your close friends and family.Let them enjoy this delightful news with you.

2. Determine your wedding date . You need to lock your wedding date. Choosing a date is a big deal. Once you get this booked, get an event planner that will help you lock in your amazing team of vendors, keep you on track and provide you with advice and ideas. Oh and they will also execute the big day for you, so you, your fiance, friends and family can enjoy the day.

3. Decide on the number of Guests! You will need a rough estimate of the number of people you wish to invite. This will determine a number of things, like the venue & your budget. Start a list, ask both sets of parents for their list. From there, decide if you want to invite everyone on that list.

4. Budget, budget, budget! You will need to decide how much you want to spend on your wedding day and stick to it. Be reasonable when setting your wedding budget. Keep in mind the number of guests, the style of wedding you wish to have and the time of year you are planning on having your wedding (on or off peak season!) will greatly affect your wedding budget.

Happy Planning

Cheers!
RSVP Events | Ottawa Corporate & Event Planners
c: (613) 883-5745

For more information please contact info@rsvp-events.ca

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