Planning a Cocktail Reception?

 

 

National Bridal Service and Weddings Beautiful certified consultants such as TriniWeddings are available to answer questions and offer guidelines for brides who are planning a cocktail reception.

·         Brides should stay open to various ideas and suggestions even though their chosen venue may offer set menus. In many places it may be possible to mix and match from various menus.  Many food suppliers are open to creating a custom menu for you based on your budget - as long as it meets their minimum pricing.

·         If your plan is to have a lavish cocktail reception most food professionals will suggest that you plan to serve an assortment of no more than eight to ten appetizer items.  If there is no meal to follow, plan on each guest eating two or three of each item.  The simple guideline is twenty four pieces per guest.  You should use this guide as you work with your caterer to see how he/she plans to provide coverage for your guests.   Be aware that this amount will obviously vary based on the length of your reception.   Many couples will follow cocktails and hors d'oeuvre with coffee and desserts. The quantity and type of appetizers you choose to serve would influence your dessert options.

·         Once you have an idea of the cost for this type of reception, you may want to consider a buffet which can be less expensive.  However, a buffet can have a very different  feel from the lavish serving of appetizers, elegantly displayed and passed one item per tray on silver servers.

·         You might consider setting up several mini tasting stations where guests can help themselves to the less expensive choices.  Space the stations so that there will be no traffic jams.  Using these stations for some items, reserve the more expensive items for tray service from white gloved waiters.  Having choice items passed gives you a measure of control.  Make sure that each mini station is set with plates, cutlery and napkins.

·         This type of reception works well when you choose to serve champagne and other non alcoholic sparking beverages.  For variety, consider asking a bartender for ideas to create a special signature cocktail for your guests.

 

For more ideas and answers to questions call 868 6288  or email info@triniweddings.com

Caring for Your Wedding Gown after your wedding

 

 

 

 

You are quite unlikely to ever own any item of clothing as beautiful and symbolic as your wedding gown!

If you wish to keep it so that your daughter can wear it one day or as a personal keepsake of a monumental day in your life or plan to sell it someday, it is important that you realize that there are things you must do in order to preserve it.  There is an overwhelming number of brides who treasure their gowns and preserve them after the ceremony. These brides actually forego the popular trash the dress  ritual.

Firstly, you must make sure that your dress is carefully cleaned  before it is stored.  Food and beverage stains, though seemingly invisible at first glance, are likely to yellow later on.  The hemline is usually soiled and must be cleaned.  Many cleaners may offer to pack your gown in a special box, which offers protection from dust in the air and I suggest you choose a cleaning company that offers this service.

If you decide to store it yourself, it is best to place it in a cool, dry place.  If you chose to store it on a hanger, sew straps to the waistline to relieve pressure on the shoulder seams from the weight of the skirt.  Stuff the sleeves (if your gown has them) with white tissue.  Finally, wrap the entire garment in a protective sheet or muslin covering.  Do not encase the gown in plastic.