Category: wedding day

Greece Makes History as First Orthodox Christian Nation To Legalize Gay Marriage

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On February 15, 2024, a wave of change swept Greece as the nation became the first majority Orthodox Christian country to legalize same-sex marriage. This landmark decision passed in Greece’s parliament with a 176-76 vote. Learn more about how Greeks are reacting to this major development and what this might mean for queer people in other conservative Christian countries.
A Step Towards Acceptance
The legal recognition of same-sex marriage offers crucial protections and benefits for the LGBTQIA+ community in Greece. This new law grants same-sex couples the right to marry civilly, offering them the same protections and recognition as heterosexual couples. Additionally, it allows them to adopt children, further solidifying their rights and responsibilities as families.
Beyond the law, the fact that the Greek parliament openly supports the LGBTQIA+ community sends a powerful message of acceptance and inclusivity. Not only will queer people be able to get married legally, but they can feel safe in declaring their love, building families, and participating fully in society without fear of exclusion.
A Nation in Dialogue
This decision has not come without its share of controversy. The powerful Greek Orthodox Church, deeply rooted in traditional interpretations of scripture, expressed strong opposition. Some politicians and segments of the population echoed this sentiment, arguing that the law undermines the sanctity of marriage and family values.
Yet, a significant portion of the Greek public, including the LGBTQIA+ community and their allies, celebrated the decision as a long-awaited victory for human rights. They hailed it as a sign of progress and a testament to the evolving values of modern Greece. This vibrant dialogue reflects the complex tapestry of beliefs and perspectives within the nation.
The Spectrum of Orthodox Views on the LGBTQIA+ Community
The Orthodox Church officially upholds traditional teachings on marriage and sexuality, viewing it as a sacred union between a man and a woman, aimed at procreation. Homosexual acts are generally considered sinful, and same-sex relationships are not recognized as marriages. This stance is based on biblical interpretations and theological doctrines.
However, individual Orthodox Christians hold a wider range of views on the LGBTQIA+ community. While some adhere to the official teachings, others express varying degrees of openness and acceptance. Some emphasize the importance of welcoming and supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals within the Church community, even if they disagree with their choices. Others advocate for a more nuanced understanding of scripture and theological interpretations, arguing for inclusivity and compassion without compromising core beliefs.
Hope for the Orthodox World
The impact of Greece’s decision transcends its borders. It serves as a beacon of hope for LGBTQIA+ individuals in other Orthodox Christian countries, many of which continue to grapple with similar issues. Much of Eastern Europe is Orthodox Christian, and historically, LGBTQIA+ people have experienced heavy discrimination and sometimes outright violence in countries such as Belarus, Lithuania, and Romania. While cultural and religious contexts differ, this groundbreaking legislation offers a powerful precedent and potential inspiration for future change.
Navigating the Road Ahead
The road to full and equal implementation of this law won’t be easy. Combating potential discrimination and ensuring equal access to marriage rights and adoption processes will require ongoing vigilance and effort. However, the legal framework now exists, paving the way for further dialogue and potential reform within the Orthodox Church itself.
Greece’s historic decision to legalize same-sex marriage marks a turning point, not an ending. It represents a significant step forward for LGBTQIA+ rights in the country and offers a glimmer of hope for a more inclusive future across the region. While challenges remain, this milestone serves as a reminder that gradual progress is possible, and the pursuit of equality is a journey worth taking.

Why Cemetery Weddings Are Gaining Popularity

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Cemetery weddings are a popular new trend, especially among young people.

Cemetery weddings are a popular new trend, especially among young people.
When you think of a wedding, you might picture a ceremony in a traditional religious venue like a church, or perhaps on a picturesque beach or in a rustic barn. Maybe the last location to come to mind? A graveyard.

Yet, cemetery weddings are more common than most people realize – and they’re getting more popular. While the idea may seem a bit morbid on its face, there is a deeper level to tying the knot in a burial zone. Getting married in a cemetery is another unique way to celebrate love, yes, but it can also be a way to honor the dead, add solemnity to the occasion, or even save on wedding costs.

The Origins of Cemetery Weddings
Unlike many modern wedding trends, the origins of cemetery weddings are difficult to trace. Graveyards have existed for as long as human settlements, which suggests that people have been using these spaces for important occasions for thousands of years.

So, why get married there? One reason is a desire to connect with both living family members and ancestors who have passed on, making a cemetery an ideal setting to honor one’s heritage during such a significant moment in one’s life.

Interestingly, there was also a more practical reason for cemetery weddings in the past. Historical records indicate that during the Black Plague, Jewish customs sometimes included conducting weddings in cemeteries as a way to ward off death. The belief was that by surrounding oneself with death, it was possible to appeal to God in a humble manner, seeking a form of protection for the newlywed couple.

Why Cemetery Weddings Are Growing in Popularity
After decades (or even centuries) of weddings generally looking very similar, in more recent years, couples have been eager to realize their own unique vision for their big day by doing something different. Holding a wedding in a cemetery is part an outgrowth of that desire to break the mold.

Cemeteries are traditionally thought of as macabre places, but they are often quite beautiful, too. Not only are some of the finest landscaping and gardens can be found in cemeteries, but they are also home to the final resting place of past generations. For example, couples may hold a fascination with the afterlife that could add a layer of meaning to a cemetery wedding. For those who believe in the power of spirits, it can be comforting to know that one’s wedding attendees are not limited to the guest list.

Handling Judgment From Others
However, planning a cemetery wedding can come with a big challenge: stigma. Inviting guests to attend a wedding in such close proximity to a burial site can sometimes invoke negative feelings from friends and family – something couples should prepare for and have a plan for how to handle comments, concerns, or even complaints.

The internet is full of stories of couples who have their hearts set on cemetery weddings… but are struggling to explain their vision to wedding guests. One Reddit user posted their story to ask for advice:

“[Future husband] and I are getting married in a newly restored chapel in the local cemetery. We will be the first wedding there in its history. It was built in the 1880s and it is tiny, simple, peaceful, and quaint. The atmosphere itself requires little to no decor added. Good to know that [future husband] and I are paying for everything ourselves and this venue is free because it seems we are making local history.

The problem is, folks think we are morbid. Wedding date is Friday, 13 March of this year. We chose that date only because we found ridiculously inexpensive flights for our honeymoon for the very next day (Paris, if anyone wants to know).

I’ve gotten nothing but negative comments from family, friends, coworkers, and acquaintances. I’ve decided to roll with it and say, ‘I’ll have all the corpses in town because they’re decidedly nicer than most of the live ones around here.’ I’ve taken walks there throughout my life and being there has always made me feel calm. A place that is usually filled with grief deserves a bit of joy.

But my question is, has anyone else flown in the face of tradition and done what they want in an unconventional place that makes them feel good despite the constant snark from others?”

Responses to the post included stories from other couples who’ve had similar experiences.

“I had a cemetery wedding too. Yes my co-workers were totally freaked out by it. But once people saw the pictures I think they ‘got’ it, and actually thought it was really beautiful – i.e. more like a historical garden than a cemetery,” wrote one commenter.

“Eh if they object they can rsvp no – I think it’s original!!!” another added.

Dealing With Dissent
You might encounter some resistance when you share your plans about the big day. Some people in your life might view a cemetery wedding as disrespectful or believe it invites bad luck.

Superstitions and beliefs vary widely across cultures and individuals, so it’s important to explain your decision to your guests in a straightforward and honest way. Be prepared for the possibility that some loved ones might choose not to attend because they feel uncomfortable with the setting.

How to Host a Cemetery Wedding
As with any wedding venue, planning a cemetery wedding involves following specific steps. First, you’ll need to find a suitable cemetery venue and ensure it is open to holding events.

It would be advisable to coordinate to schedule your wedding at a time when there are no planned burials or funerals. Although it’s your special day, the needs of those using the cemetery for mourning and remembrance may take precedence.

Once you’ve secured a venue, another critical aspect will be deciding on an officiant. On that score, online ordination has been a popular tool among couples planning a non-traditional wedding like a cemetery ceremony. With just a few clicks, a friend or family member can get ordained online and become authorized to perform a legal wedding ceremony.

Respecting Hallowed Ground
Above all, it’s essential to remember that cemeteries are sacred spaces, serving as the final resting place for those who have passed away. Treat the space with the respect and reverence it deserves, and stay away from behaviors that might be considered disrespectful in such a solemn environment.

While the idea of a cemetery wedding may seem unconventional, it’s not as unusual as it might initially appear. If this setting resonates with you, take the time to plan an event that is both respectful and meaningful, ensuring that your special day reflects your unique love story.

Make Sustainability Your Wedding Theme With These Ideas

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It is hard to deny the impact that climate change is having on the planet. While big corporations and organizations are causing the most damage to the planet through large-scale disasters that are never actually remedied, consumers tend to take on the responsibility of correcting the scales. One way average people do this is by focusing on sustainability. If you’re someone who cares about the environment, you may want to find ways to incorporate sustainable practices into your big day. Review these ideas and see how you can cultivate an eco-friendly event. 

The Invitations

The journey to a green wedding begins long before the special day arrives. You have several alternatives available to you when it comes to traditional paper invitations, for example. If you want to ditch paper altogether, consider switching to a digital method of delivery. It might seem less “polished” to send your wedding invites through email, but it is a fantastic way to reduce your wedding’s overall carbon footprint. Plus, you’re likely to receive faster and more reliable responses when you use an online portal to keep track of guests. 

If you’re beholden to the idea of traditional invitations, consider using paper alternatives. “Seed paper” is great for this. Basically, this is paper that is made with plant seeds woven throughout. After a guest receives the invite, he or she can plant it in the ground or a pot and watch as a lovely bit of greenery blooms in their space. 

The Venue

Where you host your event can also have a big impact on how eco-friendly your nuptials turn out. You should aim to use a venue that follows practices that align with your views on sustainability. For example, recycling might be very important for you. While it is a legal requirement for businesses in some areas, not all counties require companies to recycle. This means you should speak with the venue coordinator in advance and ask any questions that pertain to your core beliefs surrounding eco-friendly solutions. 

There are a number of great resources online to help you find businesses that care about the environment. One of the biggest databases can be found through the United States Government’s Library of Congress website. Their list of “Green Businesses” includes a plethora of profiles, articles, and news sources about sustainable businesses around the country.

The Decor

Another area to focus on when you’re thinking about sustainable wedding practices is decor. The flowers you pick for your wedding can play a big part in how much of an impact your event has on the planet. If you select flowers that are grown in another part of the world, then you’re putting more strain on the environment by picking plants that need to be shipped via various methods from one location to another. Instead, try to focus on flowers that are sourced locally. 

Another smart option with your flowers is to pick plants that are currently in season. Not only is this a green practice, it can save you a good chunk of change. Flowers that are in bloom are easier to source, meaning they don’t usually cost as much as flowers that grow during different times of the year. 

The Food

Think about food in the same way you think about your floral arrangements. Opt for caterers that use meat and ingredients that are sourced locally. This will reduce your carbon footprint and also help you support businesses in your area. What’s more, you tend to get more delicious and fresh meals when you follow this concept. 

The Future

There are plenty of ways to make your wedding align with your personal views about the environment. As long as you think about all of the ideas available to you, you’ll have no trouble reducing your event’s impact on the planet.

Creative Ways To Tell the World You Are Engaged

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There are few moments more exciting in life than the decision to get married. After you’ve spent years with your partner, you likely are ready to take your relationship to the next stage. Naturally, you’re going to want to spread this news to all of the people you love. If you love to get creative with such announcements, you may wonder how to tell loved ones about your engagement. Consider these suggestions to discover the perfect method to tell the world you’re about to tie the knot. 

The Preliminary Decisions

Before you finalize your method of announcing the engagement, you must ask yourself a few crucial questions. First, do you want to tell everyone in one swoop or are there specific people you would like to inform first? Typically, parents and siblings are people you want to make the announcement to separately from the rest of your relatives and friends. You also need to consider whether you’d like to have photos taken. If so, try and get the pictures done before you make the announcement. This gives you media you can utilize in your message about the milestone. 

The Traditional Method

In some cases, the classic options are the best. If you’re someone who loves to send and receive messages via traditional mail, you may want to consider snail mail for your announcements. Though it is not a speedy method in any capacity, sending your messages out in this manner is a charming option to consider. With this option, however, you will need to make sure you have the mailing addresses of everyone you want to receive the message. You will also need to print enough copies of your engagement photos for each announcement you mail out.

The Digital Divide

Though plenty of people still use traditional mail for making important announcements, a large chunk of people have switched to digital methods of communication. Social media has radically transformed the way that most people interact and discuss big life events. The easiest and most effective way to make your engagement announcement online is by making a post on your social accounts. Facebook and Instagram are the perfect platforms for such announcements, as you can share some of your favorite engagement pictures and write a message that captures how excited you are to take this next step. 

Social media isn’t the only way to make the announcement online. Though it isn’t as popular a choice, using email is still an option worth looking into. This is a fast, effective way to get the message out to hundreds of people with one single email. Again, to see success with this choice you will need to make sure you have the email addresses of every person you want to receive the message. 

The Surprise

Hosting an intimate gathering of your closest friends and family members can also make for a lovely way to announce your decision. Invite everyone to your house for a dinner or a party, then make a speech thanking them for their presence and slip in the news about the engagement. The party will instantly turn into a joyous celebration of your relationship. If you’re looking to knock out the announcement and the engagement party in one shot, this is a great way to cover all of your bases in a single moment.

The Choice

While it is an important decision to make, you should not spend weeks debating the best method of announcing your engagement. All you need to do is think about which option aligns best with your personality. Whether you decide to surprise family at a party or make the announcement through email, there are a ton of exciting options that can help you along your way.

How To Use Perfume To Make Your Wedding Day Memorable

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On your wedding day, every detail, from the dress to the decorations, will stick in your memory for years to come. One often-overlooked aspect that can significantly enhance your wedding experience is perfume. The right scent can evoke emotions, create lasting memories, and add a personal touch to your special day. Here’s how you can use perfume to make your wedding day more memorable.

Embrace the Power of Perfume

The mind has a unique connection to scent, and certain smells can even trigger memories and evoke emotions. Choosing a perfume for your wedding day is one way to add another layer of memory. Whether it’s the delicate fragrance of gardenias or the warm embrace of vanilla, the right perfume can transport you to the joyous moments of your wedding day. That’s the power of perfume.

Match Your Perfume to the Season

Perfumers use thousands of ingredients to create bottled fragrances, and each one can smell different depending on the season and the weather. If you love light floral fragrances with freesia and lily-of-the-valley, you might be disappointed by how they smell in the winter. Here are the types of fragrances that work best for each season:

  • Spring: Opt for light and fresh floral fragrances with notes such as jasmine, peony, grapefruit, tuberose, lotus, and gardenia.
  • Summer: Embrace uplifting and fruity fragrances with notes such as lemon, coconut, seawater, pineapple, tiare flower, bergamot, and pink pepper.
  • Fall: Look for rich and cozy amber and spicy fragrances with notes of vanilla, apple, cinnamon, tobacco, tuberose, rose, incense, and spices.
  • Winter: Choose elegant and intense woody, musky, and amber fragrances with notes of cedarwood, patchouli, honey, musk, warm spices, oud, amber, frankincense, benzoin, and sandalwood.

When you take the weather and climate into account, you will get better performance from your perfume. Not to mention that your future spouse and guests will be very impressed by your savvy choices. 

Find Your Signature Scent

Before your wedding day, take the time to find a perfume that resonates with you. Visit fragrance counters to sample different perfumes and find one that complements your personality and style. Remember that fragrances change throughout the day, so it’s important to try before you buy. You may love the initial blast of scent but feel turned off by the aroma at the end of the day.

Be bold when you pick a scent for your big day. Whether you prefer floral, fruity, or woody notes, choose one that makes you feel confident and beautiful, even if it isn’t what someone else would wear.

Layer for Longevity

To ensure your perfume lasts throughout the day, use a layering technique. Start by applying a scented or unscented body lotion or oil to hydrate your skin and create a base for the fragrance. Follow up with your chosen perfume applied to pulse points such as wrists, neck, and behind the ears. By layering your scent, you’ll enhance its longevity and leave a lasting impression.

Enhance the Atmosphere

Incorporate scented details into your wedding decor to create a cohesive sensory experience. Use scented candles or diffusers in your venue to set the mood and create a welcoming atmosphere. Floral arrangements with fragrant blooms of roses or lavender can infuse the air with a subtle scent that compliments what you’re wearing.

Long after your wedding day has passed, the scent you wore will continue to evoke memories of your experience. Consider wearing the same perfume on your anniversary every year or when you go on a romantic trip with your spouse. You can also preserve the scent by spritzing it on fabric items like your wedding dress or veil, creating a tangible reminder of the love and happiness you felt that day.

Everything You Need To Know About Picking a Signature Wedding Drink

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Customizing your wedding with small details is a great way to showcase the unique personalities of both yourself and your partner. While there are many ways to go about this, one simple and effective choice is coming up with a signature drink. Whether you opt for a classic mixture like a tequila sunrise, a clever mocktail, or a completely original blend, the right refreshment can go a long way to bring your big day together.  

Explore the Reasons for a Specialty Drink

Creating a specialty cocktail for your event is a fun way to express yourself, but it’s also very practical. Paying for an unlimited open bar can be a huge expense. When you settle on serving signature drinks, you can limit the liquor that is offered at the bar and save some money without denying your guests options beyond wine and beer. This choice can also be a lot of fun, allowing you to come up with silly and clever names for your drink. 

Consider Your Favorite Liquors

When going about the process of choosing your signature drink, you want to begin with the basics. Namely, you should think about your favorite liquor options. Do you enjoy clear spirits like vodka or gin? Do you prefer darker intoxicants like whiskey and spiced rum? Once you have selected the right alcoholic base, you can start looking at mixers and herbs that perfectly complement your choice. 

Create the Drink Based on Your Life

One way you can create your cocktail is by having it reflect your love story. If you took a walk along the beach on your first date, then consider a bay breeze, which is made with coconut rum, pineapple juice, and a splash of cranberry juice. If you spend a lot of time in a big city together, Manhattan could prove to be a perfect drink choice. This simple mix is made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, bitters, and a maraschino cherry. 

Think About More Than One Choice

If you’re having a difficult time choosing just one drink for your big day, it’s OK to pick more than one signature beverage. People can be particular when it comes to the liquors they prefer, meaning you don’t want to offer only bourbon to a crowd that heavily prefers vodka. However, you don’t want to go overboard and offer too many drinks. According to industry experts, you should have no more than four signature drinks. Offering too many options can put unnecessary pressure on your bartenders and defeat the purpose of serving a limited selection of drinks. 

Play With Names

After you’ve come up with your cocktails, it is time to devise some cute names that describe the drink and reflect your relationship. Puns will be a lifesaver in this scenario, so get as wacky as you’d like while brainstorming ideas. If you’re doing a basic vodka and cranberry, the name could be something like “Berry Much in Love.” Any drink that incorporates mint could easily use the name “Mint To Be.” 

Use Bar Menu Signs

Finally, don’t forget to have signage for the drinks. Guests will need to know what you’re offering, what’s in each cocktail, and the special significance the beverages hold to your relationship. Cute signs that feature the colors and theme of your wedding can help to tie the entire experience together. 

Find the Ideal Drink

Though concocting a specialty cocktail is not a requirement for your wedding, it can be a fun way to enhance the festivities. Consider what ingredients will best encapsulate the relationship you’ve built with your partner and provide your family and friends with a delicious refreshment they will keep coming back to

Pros and Cons of Eloping

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Are you overwhelmed by the idea of hosting hundreds of people at a grand wedding? Eloping is a romantic alternative that can save you time and lower your stress. Of course, there are still pros and cons to consider before making your final decision about how you want to get married. As a couple contemplating elopement, you’ll find this guide invaluable in navigating the complexities of such a choice.

Pro # 1: Intimacy and Romance

Eloping offers a level of intimacy and romance that is hard to replicate in a traditional wedding setting. There’s a unique sense of closeness when it’s just the two of you exchanging vows in a secluded spot far from the crowd. 

When you’re away from everyone else, you can create a ceremony that is personal and meaningful. You can choose whether or not to include religious and spiritual elements or simply honor your love by reading each other a letter.

Pro #2: Reduced Stress and Costs

Planning a traditional wedding can be a logistical nightmare and a financial strain. Eloping eliminates much of this stress. There are no guest lists to manage, no seating charts to agonize over, and no need to break the bank on a lavish reception. The money saved can be used for other important life goals, such as buying a home or embarking on a dream honeymoon.

Pro #3: Flexibility and Freedom

If you plan to elope, you will enjoy far more flexibility and freedom than you would planning a large wedding. You won’t have to worry about choosing a venue or church that can hold your guests, which will give you many location options.

The same freedom applies to your choice for the time of day and time of year. There are no rules to follow except those you set for yourselves. You could get married at sunrise on a tiny beach in Thailand or exchange vows on the Cliffs of Dover in early spring. The options are endless.

Con #1: Missing Family and Friends

A significant downside of eloping is that you may miss having your friends and family by your side. Getting married is a big deal, and sharing that milestone with those you love makes it more special.

You always have the option of inviting a few people to your elopement. You could include your parents, a mentor, or a handful of close friends. Just because you want to elope doesn’t mean you can’t have a couple of your loved ones with you.

Con #2: Lack of Wedding Traditions

Most elopements lack many of the wedding traditions you might be used to. If you have always dreamed of making a grand entrance, walking down the aisle, having a first dance, cutting a cake, and more, then you might feel disappointed when you elope. This is even more true if you want to honor your religious, spiritual, or cultural background.

Con #3: Working Through Legal Issues

You might have to work through challenging legal issues and other logistical concerns to elope.  If you want to elope outside of your home country, research the marriage laws and regulations of your ideal destination. Many countries still don’t allow legal same-sex marriages, so that may limit your options if you’re a queer couple.

Finding Your Path to Happily Ever After

The decision to elope or have a traditional wedding is deeply personal. It doesn’t mean you have to exclude your loved ones or forgo your favorite wedding traditions. What matters most is that your wedding day reflects your love story and creates lasting memories that you both cherish.

Whether you choose to elope or not, make sure it’s a decision that resonates with you and your partner because it will set the stage for your new life together.

Tips for Keeping Children Entertained on Your Wedding Day

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Whether it’s nieces and nephews, your best friend’s children, or young cousins, sometimes, inviting children to a wedding is unavoidable. While you can always request on the invitation that no children attend, if you want friends and family with children to be able to attend, it may be best to leave this requirement off the invitation. Children are often unpredictable, which does not go well with a wedding day. Here are some things you can do to keep children entertained and well-behaved on your wedding day.

Hire a Babysitter

If the parents of the children are part of the wedding, consider hiring a babysitter or caregiver for the children. The babysitter can tend to the children’s needs and keep them entertained. You might hire someone from the family who is less involved in the wedding or perhaps a professional nanny if you have room in the budget. You can find one online or ask your friends and family with children if they have a babysitter or nanny they recommend.

Designate a Special Area for Them

If you have activities to keep children entertained, they will be less likely to get bored and start complaining or creating issues. Consider having an area that is just for them. Adding a “children only” sign can be a nice touch, making them feel special and more likely to hang out there. Choose some age-appropriate activities that will prevent boredom. Things such as coloring books, crayons, crafts, and board games can be helpful.

Similarly, consider making a personalized pack with activities for the children to do throughout the day. This will make them feel particularly special, and you can include things you know they enjoy doing.

Allow Them To Burn Off Energy

Children are full of energy and need a way to burn it off. Otherwise, you’re just asking for trouble, as they’ll likely be disruptive at the worst times. If the weather is nice, someone can take the kids outside and allow them to run around a bit (while taking care that they don’t get too dirty, of course). Alternatively, many games can be played indoors that will safely allow them to run around a bit and expel some of that seemingly endless amount of energy children have. Some of these games may include:

  • Duck, Duck, Goose
  • Ring Around the Rosie
  • Simon Says
  • Red Light, Green Light

Have Special Snacks

Children love to snack, and their small stomachs often require it. So find some child-friendly snacks that the children can eat throughout the day to prevent their blood sugar from crashing, which may make them cranky. And, of course, you need to talk with the parents or caregivers to ensure the kids don’t have any food allergies. Finally, you will want to choose snacks that do not make much of a mess, so the children don’t stain their wedding clothes.

Make Them Feel Included

Children often want to be involved and feel like they are an essential part of the day. Find a way to make them feel included and special. Girls and boys alike may enjoy being part of the process of getting ready and can even perform little tasks that help with the last-minute wedding preparations.

Above all else, try not to set your expectations high and expect kids to behave perfectly. Children being ornery often make some of the best wedding memories. Doing these things can help the children feel entertained and included, but they will likely still ask questions and want to be a part of your special day. Try to embrace that fact and enjoy having them be a part of your day.

Coping With Post-Wedding Blues

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After the confetti has fallen on the most magical day of your life, you might feel an unexpected sense of emptiness. While few people talk about it, post-wedding depression is a real possibility for even the happiest of couples. After months, or maybe even years, of planning, anticipation, and the euphoria of the big day, coming back to reality can be unsettling. Here are some strategies to cope with post-wedding blues.

Reflect on Your Memories

The first step in dealing with post-wedding blues is to reflect on your big day. Sit down with your spouse and relive the beautiful memories you created together. Share stories about the day and reminisce about the vows you exchanged and the heartfelt toasts that were given. This reflection not only allows you to bask in the afterglow of your wedding but also helps you establish a deeper connection with your partner.

Stay Connected With Loved Ones

If you’re feeling sad after getting married, being isolated from your loved ones can make it worse. Focus on staying connected to close friends and family, especially in the weeks immediately following your wedding.

Host gatherings, attend social events, or simply reach out for a chat or a coffee date. Your friends and family will appreciate continuing to be a part of your life as a married couple, and their support can help you get back on your feet emotionally. After all, your wedding was a celebration of love, and that love can continue to thrive in the days and years to come.

Set Goals Together

Setting goals with your spouse is a great way to distract yourself from the low period after getting married. Whether you want to buy a home, start a family, or travel the world, setting goals can give you something to look forward to. This is a great way to refocus your energy and stay grounded as a couple.

When you create a list of your short and long-term goals, use the SMART acronym to guide you. Each goal should be:

  • Specific
  • Measurable
  • Achievable
  • Relevant
  • Time-bound

Create New Routines

Creating new routines is another important strategy when navigating post-wedding blues. A common reason for feeling depressed after you get married is the sudden shift from the extraordinary to the ordinary. If you went on a honeymoon, it might have helped ease the transition for a time. However, it can also add another layer of sadness because then you may deal with post-trip blues too.

As you settle back into your work and life schedule with your spouse, design intentional routines and traditions together. Things like getting up early to sit and have quiet time over coffee or walking your dog together every day after work can quickly become a way to soothe the soul. You can also get festive around holidays and decide on new traditions you want to start as a family.

Practice Self-Care and Rest

You may have pampered your skin before your wedding day, but you probably didn’t get a lot of time to practice authentic self-care. Use the period after your wedding to catch up on things that matter to you, such as moving through your To-Be-Read stack of books and finally learning how to garden.

You can do some self-care activities with your spouse, but you should pursue some things on your own to maintain your sense of independence. By nurturing your own well-being, you’ll be better equipped to bring positivity and happiness into your marriage. 

If you notice that you’re feeling down or blue after your wedding remember that it’s a completely normal emotional response that many other people also experience. You are not alone. Talk to your spouse and loved ones as you process how you’re feeling, and use these coping strategies to set yourself up for healing and growth.

How To Create a Wedding Budget

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Knowing how to craft a well-thought-out budget is one of the most important skills you can have as an adult. You’ll use financial planning at many different times in your life, especially for big events such as moving to a new city and getting married. Once you’re engaged, you and your partner might wonder how and where to start with estimating the costs of a marriage ceremony and reception. Here’s a helpful guide you can follow to create a wedding budget.

Determine Your Total Resources

Before you get emotionally invested in a specific vision for your big day, you need to determine the total amount you’ll have in your pool of resources. This figure may come from your salary, what you have in savings, and contributions from your family. 

Be realistic about what you can comfortably afford. You can plan for an intimate ceremony or discuss eloping if you have limited resources. The most effective way to budget is to spend within your means.

Set Your Priorities

Sit down with your partner to discuss your priorities. What aspects of the wedding are most important to you? Is it the venue, the photographer, the guest list, the food, or the entertainment?

Once you’ve identified the things you can’t sacrifice, allocate a larger portion of your budget to these elements. This sets the tone for the entire budgeting process.

Break Down Your Expenses

The most tedious part of the process comes next, where you will create an itemized list of expenses. A traditional wedding involves these categories:

  • Venue and catering
  • Decorations and flowers
  • Clothing and accessories
  • Photography and Videography
  • Entertainment
  • Transportation

If you’re planning to elope, your expenses will look a little different. You won’t have to worry about catering for a large group or decorating a party hall. However, you might spend more getting to a special destination. 

Allocate Funds to Each Category

Next, you’ll allocate funds based on your priorities. This step requires some trade-offs. For example, if your venue and catering are at the top of your list, you might need to trim expenses in other areas. Use a spreadsheet or budgeting tool to keep track of allocations, and ensure that you don’t exceed your total budget.

Research and Comparison

As you navigate your budget, collect quotes and estimates from potential vendors and services. Get multiple quotes and don’t hesitate to negotiate. This is an area where you can potentially save a significant amount of money.

Compare the options available within your budget, and be sure to read reviews and check references for vendors to ensure the quality of their work. You might also discover alternative solutions, such as a friend or family member who can provide a service.

Monitor and Adjust as Needed

A wedding budget is not a static document, and there’s no point in making a budget if you don’t monitor what you spend along the way. The reality of planning a complex event is that there will always be costs you didn’t plan for. Similarly, you may decide to change your priorities along the way. This may be particularly true if you’re planning the wedding over several years. 

Keep track of all your expenses, even small ones, to avoid overspending. Be prepared to adjust your allocations if necessary. Maintain an open mind and stay focused on the big picture, which is the fact that you’re getting married to the love of your life.

Remember that a well-organized budget is the key to a stress-free and enjoyable wedding planning process. With careful preparation and discipline, you can have the wedding of your dreams without breaking the bank.