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Dress Advice for the Mother of the Groom

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There are hundreds of columns, books and articles dedicated to wedding advice for the bride, groom, bridesmaids and even mother-of-the-bride. However, we seldom come across useful advice for the mother of the groom. So, this article is dedicated to the mothers of the grooms, and we will soon explore the guidelines that will help the mother of the groom choose a dress that is appropriate for her son’s wedding.

Going with tradition

Traditionally, it was the bride’s mother who first chose her dress and informed the groom’s mother of her selection. The mother of the groom would then choose a dress that would match. The dresses of both mothers weren’t expected to be a perfect match. Nevertheless, it was common practice that their dresses didn’t clash, but would instead complement each other. So, if the mother of the bride chose a long dress, the mother of the groom would also do the same.

Go with the wedding theme and colors

You should be aware of the various colors that are in the wedding palette, and the type of wedding that is planned. Depending on the specific nature of the wedding, you may choose your dress in a color and style that matches the style of wedding. Take cues from the bridesmaids dresses and choose your dress in a color that complements it, but isn’t the same shade.

 

Avoid white and black

You should stay away from white, obviously because it is the bridal color. Black isn’t usually considered suitable for a wedding, and unless it is a part of the overall color scheme, or the couple don’t mind you choosing a black dress, it is best avoided.

Comfort is key

It is not a good idea to experiment with daring options in dress styles on this day.You will be spending several hours wearing the dress you choose, so go with a style that you are comfortable in.

Once you choose your dress, get it altered to fit your measurements. This will make sure it flaunts your figure. Also select appropriate innerwear to support you throughout the day, and invest in a good pair of shoes.

Dress appropriately and aim for elegance

Choose a dress silhouette that flatters your figure, and make sure it is one that doesn’t cause any eyebrows to be raised. Modern etiquette rules do not demand that the mother of the groom be dressed conservatively. So, you can choose dresses that highlight the latest trends, but aim for a classic and elegant look. If you want to try something bold, it is a good idea to first get your would-be daughter-in-law’s opinion on whether it would be appropriate for the occasion.

Accessorize to enhance your overall look

Don’t just rely on your dress to look great. Make sure you have the jewelry to add the finishing touches. Classic choices are pearls and diamonds, but you can also go for colored gemstones that match your dress. Choose a stunning clutch and matching shoes to add style to your outfit. Finally pay attention to your makeup and hairstyle to look fabulous.

To choose from a great selection of dresses in all colors and patterns to wear at your son’s lifetime event, visit us at Best for Bride.

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How to co-ordinate your bridesmaids and groomsmen wedding day looks

Your bridesmaids and groomsmen will share the frame in many of your wedding pictures. So, it is necessary that their looks are well-planned and go together. Coordinating your bridesmaids dresses and groomsmen attires will help you do this. If you are not sure of how to go about it, here is some help. We bring you three great ideas to get this done at your wedding. So, read on.

Matching Bows and ties for mismatched bridesmaids dresses

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The current trend is to go with mismatched bridesmaids dresses, so each girl looks unique. Despite this, there is usually, a cohesive element that brings their looks together. Use this element to plan the groomsmen outfits. If the color palette is the same, get the guys bows or ties in the same shades as the corresponding bridesmaid dress. If it is the fabric that is the same, choose ties that have a similar texture and they will go together. For bridesmaids dresses from the Alfred Angelo collection, you can also find coordinated bows and ties for most of the dresses at Bows n Ties.

Match your bridesmaids dress color to the vest or pocket square

Matching the tie is the easy option. But, if you don’t mind going the extra mile to co-ordinate both the men and women in another style, choose the same color for the vest and dress, or have the pocket in the same color. The only thing you need to remember when doing this is that you should choose bridesmaids dresses in colors that can possibly be incorporated into the groomsmen outfits. Colors like gray, chocolate, beige, navy, yellow or black should be possible options.

Match the colors to the boutonniere

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If you do not want the same color pattern for the bridesmaids dresses and groomsmen ties or vests, consider matching the color of the dress to the boutonniere. This is especially good in cases where your bridesmaids dress colors are unusual or awkward with dark tuxes. For orange bridesmaids dresses with a ruffled texture, have the boutonniere with orange roses or chrysanthemums, and you will not only replicate the colors, but also the texture. Keep the palette consistent, but vary the hues and you will have a stylish and chic mix.

Play with patterns

Now what do you do if your bridesmaids are to wear dresses that are entirely different in fabric, cut and print? It is simple! Just do the same with your groomsmen. Assuming that you will have one shade that will tie all the dresses together, make sure that the men too have this color incorporated into their attires, and all will be good. Why should women have all the fun? If your girls are going for patterned dresses, go wild with the prints on the ties too. Just make sure that they don’t look completely disjoint and confused when both groups come together.

To find bridesmaids dresses for all these groups, visit our collection at Best for Bride and you will find something for everyone. Head over to Bows and Ties for matching pieces for the guys, and you will have everything sorted out in no time.

 

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The essential guide to Wedding Invitation Printing Techniques

Your choice of stationery, size of invitations and method of printing are what determine the total cost for your invitations. When printing your wedding invitations, you have several techniques to choose from. Being aware of these different printing options will allow you to not only choose a method that fits your budget, but also to achieve the desired look and effect. So, let us find out what our options are.

Engraving

This is the traditional style of printing that has been used for ages. It is an expensive method, as the letters are etched on the cardstock in thick and good quality ink, using copper plates. After the ink is applied to the plates and pressed on the paper, the card is subjected to high pressure so the letters are pressed down into it. Engraved text is sharp and raised on the right side, and there are depressions on the other side of the page. It looks sophisticated and classic, but comes at a considerable price. Having your invitations engraved will take at least four to six weeks. So, if you choose it, place your order early.

Letterpress

This is a handcrafting method, where the ink is manually pushed into the paper using a metal plate on which the text is prepared. The result is similar to engraving, but not as refined. Your invitation cards have to be bulky and soft, for letterpress to work. Although it is expensive, it is cheaper than engraving. So, if you want a textured and sophisticated invitation, consider letterpress. The complexity of the design you choose is what determines the turnaround time. A set of invitations can be completed in as little as two weeks, or may take as much as two months.

Thermography

Another formal style of printing, thermography uses heated ink with resin powder to create lettering. The print is very similar to engraving, and has a raised surface. However, it is not as fine. This technique is affordable and takes less time to complete. You may however, have limited options to customize your invitation with colors.

Offset printing

This is the standard flat-printing that we are all familiar with. It is a low-budget choice, but looks very good when done well. Here, the ink lies flat against the surface of the paper, and you can choose to print in any color, format or design. Offset printing can be done quickly.

Digital printing

The results are similar to offset printing, but digital printing is done on thinner paper. It uses a printer, instead of a press. The method is suitable for casual wedding themes and it is possible to do almost any design or use any color, with this technique. This is the cheapest and quickest option, and you can have your invitation cards ready in a matter of days.

The style of printing you choose should reflect the formality of your wedding. After all, your invitations set the tone for your wedding. Although there are no hard and fast rules here, it is better to go for engraved, letterpress or thermographic printing styles if your wedding is a black-tie event. For a casual or semi-formal event, you can choose offset or digital prints.

To check out our collection of wedding invitation styles, as well as for all your other wedding needs, visit us on Best for Bride.

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Trends we Love – Rainbow Inspired weddings!

rainbow-569864_1280We have seen various themes at weddings—some classic, some formal, some casual and others fun! We have seen a variety of color palettes, some of which were right, and some others that didn’t suit our taste!

A great part of the wedding experience is based on the colors in the décor. By executing a beautiful color palette, you can have a stunning wedding setting, that your guests will remember for long. If you are a girl who loves colors, but can’t get your mind around to which colors you ought to choose for your wedding, here is the solution! Go for a Rainbow Inspired wedding.

Doesn’t the name itself sound lively and bright?

Take inspiration from the rainbow, an element of nature that never ceases to marvel, and let your creativity free. With this theme, you will have a colorful and elegant wedding, if you do it right. Here are some tips to get you going.

Begin with your invitations

Choose your wedding invitation stationery in white or ivory card stock as the base, and add the details in various colors to allow your guests a sneak peek into the theme of your wedding. Err on the side of elegance, so your invitations don’t look as though they belong to a child’s birthday party.

Beautifully bright bridesmaids

Mix and match your bridesmaids dresses with colors that add up to VIBGYOR. You can choose a collection, and have your bridesmaids select dresses in different colors from it. For the groomsmen, specify the same colors for their ties or shirts, and your photos will pop with color. It is up to you to decide whether you want the colors to be bold and intense, or soft and light. Remember that the mood created by either choice is different, and go with what suits your personalities best.

Flowers and Centerpieces

Here is an idea for the bouquets—have separate bouquets for each of your bridesmaids in colors that match their dresses! Imagine how stunning the overall effect would be! Similarly for the boutonnieres for the groomsmen.

If you have a smaller budget, consider having your bridesmaids wear a neutral like black or gray, and bring in the colors of the rainbow through the bouquets they hold, and other accessories such as shoes and headpieces.

Mix and match flowers of various colors in the floral centerpieces, or else choose to have each centerpiece in a single color of the rainbow.

Decor

Choose appropriate décor elements, depending on whether you want the effect to be casual and inviting, or formal and sophisticated. Balloons and paper lanterns in various colors have a casual vibe, whereas textile curtains, multicolored lights and complex flower arrangements create a more formal touch. Keep the base white and the colors won’t clash with what is present.

Dessert and gift table

You can be daring and choose a multicolored tier-cake. Else, keep the base white, and decorate it with colorful floral elements, lace, hearts or other toppers. Or you could keep the frosting simple, but on the inside have layers in every color of the rainbow. Throw in colored macarons and cupcakes, arranged in the VIBGYOR order, and your setting is picture perfect. For wedding favors, use multicolored yarn or colored boxes to tie them to the theme.

For more wedding ideas and inspiration, visit us at Best for Bride.