Style Tips #6 through #10 on Favors, Décor, Music Entertainment & more…

# 6 RECIPES FOR FAVORS
Gather together the favorite recipes that you remember as a child. They could be special family recipes, holiday menus, etc.  Have them bound in small books, affix a wedding label on the front with your monogram and date that you were married. And there you have it, a unique favor that your guests will use again and again. Also, it is a wonderful way to acknowledge grandmothers and mothers.
Melissa Lee, Events of Santa Barbara  

# 7 PLAYING DRESS UP
Entertainment is becoming popular at receptions.  Whether it’s a live act, such as Salsa or Tango dancers, or a dress-up area by a photo station to take fun photos with your friends, create something unique for your guests during your celebration.  If you have an outdoor garden wedding, play some champagne croquet or have a wedding piñata.  You can still have an elegant event with a bit of good fun thrown in!
Jill La Fleur, The Wedding Planner 

# 8 WEDDING DECORATIONS
Matching is out when it comes to wedding décor. The current rage in tabletop arrangements is to replace the traditional centerpieces with several different displays that work well together. Mix It Up! Vibrant flower combinations, candlescapes of varying heights, a mix of round, square, and long tables will add a new dynamic vibe with perfect harmony.  Mary Anne Knox, MAK Events, Inc.

# 9 BEST FOOT FORWARD
A lot of couples have said that the time they spend rehearsing for the first dance is like a brief romantic get-away before the wedding. Sometimes couples realize a little too late that, “Oh, we will be dancing solo in front of our entire wedding party.” To achieve confidence in your performance, couples should inquire four to six months before their wedding for dance lessons. For an elaborate presentation, six months is enough time to become comfortable in your steps, and for a simple routine, four months is fine.  Waiting until the last few weeks to prepare a dance routine simply puts too much pressure on the couple and spoils the fun.
Karen Hermanson, Arthur Murray Dance Studios  

# 10 MUSIC
You don’t have to decide between a live band or a DJ.  Have both!  Start the day with a classical trio for the ceremony;  have them play jazz, flamenco, or island music during the cocktail hour.  During dinner, move to a solo pianist or full band, then bring on the DJ for after-dinner dancing.  Your guests will love the variety, and you’ll get to hear all the music you want.
Jill La Fleur, The Wedding Planner