CAPE COD CELEBRATIONS
  • Home
  • Services
    • Wedding Planning
    • Proposal Planning
    • Party Planning
  • Love Notes
  • Press
  • Real Weddings
  • Meet
  • Contact
  • Blog
  • Client Login

Mother of the Bride & Mother of the Groom Roles

5/1/2021

0 Comments

 
Picture
Hello Moms!  Your son or daughter just got engaged!  How fun!  How crazy!  How overwhelming!  You are going to have a crazy couple of months ahead of you in the planning process so we decided to collect a list of roles that you will have from now until “I Do”.
​

Mother of the Bride
You have always dreamt of this day when your little girl would find the love of her life and walk down the aisle!  Be sure to remember that this is her wedding and she may have some crazy ideas, but you will have to be supportive throughout the stressful process.  Here is a list of “Mother-of-the-Bride Roles” for you to keep in mind while she is planning away!
- Come up with a budget you are comfortable with early on in the process
- Make your guest list and keep in mind that it is not ideal for your daughter to meet anyone for the first time at her wedding!
- Be supportive!  Times have changed and there is a lot of added stress that comes from planning a wedding.  Be her rock when she needs it!
- Hire a planner! It is definitely a smart move - mostly because if you don’t have someone there the day of the wedding to help, you may be doing it all and not enjoying the day the way you should.
- Be available.  There are lots of meetings and decisions that have to be made and you are most likely going to need to be by her side when she makes them.  Be sure that you can make yourself available for her when needed.
- Get to know the next lady who's role we are going to talk about below.  The more you are on the same team, the easier the planning process will go!

Mother of the Groom
Your son found the love of his life and now the planning begins!  We have come up with a list of things for you to keep in mind throughout the planning process!
- Make your guest list and keep in mind that it is not ideal for your son to meet anyone for the first time at his wedding!
- Be Supportive!  Let your soon-to-be daughter or son-in-law live their wedding dreams even if it was not what you would had in mind.
- Find a great rehearsal dinner venue and include your son in the process.
- Find a beautiful Mother of the Groom dress and be sure to ask what colors would be appropriate.
- Enjoy the process.  Because it is not your daughter getting married, if you have a daughter, you really need to take a bit of a back seat on this one.  When they wants your help with the wedding planning process, they will ask for it, but be sure they know you are available!
- Get to know the first lady that we talked about above.  The more you are on the same team, the easier the planning process will go!
0 Comments

How to Choose a Wedding Florist on Cape Cod

4/5/2021

0 Comments

 
Picture
When planning your wedding there are many different vendors you have to research, talk to and book - a florist being one of them.  Florists usually range from a more affordable option such as a supermarket to a higher end professional florist and everything in between.  As there are so many ways to research and find your florist - there are also a number of different factors to consider when choosing your florist.  Check out our list below of topics to consider when finding your florist on Cape Cod.

Budget
Your budget should be considered when you are looking into any of your vendors, but when finding your florist it is always a good idea to have a number in mind of what you expect to spend on your flowers.  If you present that number to your florist ahead of time it can be easier for them to recommend certain flowers, bouquets and centerpieces that would fit in your price range.

Past Weddings
Most florists will have hundreds of photos they can show you of past weddings they have done.  Really look through their website and social media accounts to see that they have done pieces that fit your vision.  If you are looking to go a bit outside the box, be sure you see photos in their portfolio that are fun and different, which shows you that they can really accept any challenge and are not always working with roses and hydrangeas!

Work with Your Vision
As I mentioned briefly above, you want to make sure that the florist you choose is willing to work with you on your vision and can already ensure you that what you are picturing in your head will be your final product.  Ask if they can show you something similar to what you want to do - either in photos or with flowers they may have on hand.  

Personality
When booking any vendor for your wedding, be sure that you enjoy their personality.  You will be in contact with them many times throughout the whole process so you want to make sure you enjoy having conversations with them!  You also want to make sure you feel that they are invested in you and that you can trust them to do their job.  Also be sure they show confidence that they can get the job done!

Know Flowers and Alternatives
When you start to look for your flowers on pinterest or instagram and on other wedding websites, you may find yourself in love with tulips, but with a September wedding it may not work out.  Be sure that when you meet with a florist and you tell them what flowers you are envisioning that they can tell you if they will be in season on your wedding date.  And if not, they should be able to tell you alternatives for those flowers that would still be beautiful, but would save you money!  You usually can get most any flowers at any time of year, but it depends on if they can get the flowers locally or if they have to shop them in from around the world!
​
Read more on Inspired by This:
10 Questions to Ask Your Florist Before Signing on the Dotted Line

0 Comments

I've Postponed My Wedding...Now What?  5 Tips on what to do now that your date has officially changed

4/29/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Photo Credit: Ann Marie Photography
Put the JOY back into wedding planning!
You’ve just come off a couple of stressful weeks - tears, phone calls, vendor outreach, sleepless nights, you name it.  Now that you have survived the unthinkable and your wedding is officially postponed, it is time to put the JOY back into wedding planning.  Set a time to chat with your wedding planner to get back on track. Revisit your pinterest board and get inspired all over again. Review your timeline and make a list of things to do.  Check out our blog post “5 things you can be doing for your wedding while you are stuck at home (cocktails included!)” Basically, the show is going to go on and refocusing your energy back to a feeling of joy and excitement is going to make you feel a lot better!
1. Communication is key!
Now it is time to officially let your guests know of the change.  Here are a couple of options based on where you are in your invitation process:
If your wedding invites have already been mailed: Contact your guests ASAP.  Start with those that RSVPd YES and ask them to update their RSVP with you.  After you have a revised headcount of the YES list, you can then extend to those that said NO to see if they can make it on the new date.  We recommend emailing or texting your guests to get the word out asap. Update your website as well. You could even create a cute graphic of you and your fiancé to attach to the email and keep the JOY in this new plan!
If your wedding invitations have been printed: You can work with your stationer on options for re-printing or sending a new piece to update your guests. You can also do this digitally to get the word out asap - an email works with a link to your updated wedding website or if you prefer to mail something, our friend from Els cards has some great FREE options available!
If you have designed your invites, or are working on your design, but have yet to print: Ask your stationer for their recommendations for sending out invitations during this time.  Seeing that your guests already received a save the date, you may want to alert them via email first and then send out your invites with the new date.

Here is an example of an email that one of our clients sent to their guests:
Dear Family and Friends,
In light of the Coronavirus Pandemic, and with an abundance of caution, we have decided to postpone our wedding to NEW DATE.  Many details are still in the process of being worked out and will be updated on our website as soon as they are available.  
If you have any information about hotels add it here!
Needless to say we are so sad that our country is facing this horrible crisis and are praying that we all come through this as quickly as possible.  So please take care of yourselves, stay safe. We love you all and can’t wait to celebrate! 
2. Review Your Wedding Vision
If your new wedding date is a different season, do you need to change your entire wedding vision?? We understand the urge to change with season or if you feel a new direction is what you need to “move on” from your original date. However, we believe that your wedding should still emulate you and your other half and if that means spring colors in fall, then go for it!  Anything goes this year - we can’t wait to see bright colors in October!
If you still feel you need to make a change, there are small ways to adjust the wedding, like considering new flowers that are in season for your new date or adding a color to your color palette that can add a new layer to your wedding design without starting from scratch! 
Either way, we know your wedding plans may look different but will still have the most important parts...you and your other half!
3. Revisit Important Planning Dates and Appointments
During this process you may have also had some important dates on your calendar that revolve around your wedding planning, like tastings, hair and makeup trials or dress fittings.  Review your calendar and see if you still have appointments that need to be updated and contact your vendors to change the date. Also, if you have scheduled any in person meetings between now and mid May, you may want to connect with that vendor to see if they would rather do a video call instead #stayhome
4. Shifting Stays
If your guests have booked their accommodations and you had a room block in place, check in with your hotels about shifting your block and the current reservations to your new date. If your guests have yet to make their reservations, update your wedding website with new room block information and we recommend suggesting they secure trip insurance for peace of mind! 
Honeymoon plans in place? We recommend reaching out to a pro to help with your options, Susan Peavey Travel.
5. Celebrate Your Original Wedding Date
You have had your original wedding date set with a heart around it on your calendar for a long time, so why not find a way to still celebrate together!  Here are some ideas we have on how you can still make this day special while you are home. #alonetogether
  • Mix up your signature cocktails and serve them during a virtual cocktail hour with your wedding party
  • Have a champagne toast
  • Try to create some of your wedding menu items as your meal
  • Buy a gift card from your cake or dessert vendor or order a small version of your cake 
  • Buy a gift card from your floral vendor or order a small version of your wedding flowers 
  • Ask your photographer for an extra session
  • Exchange notes
  • Practice your first dance or your first kiss :)
0 Comments

Happy New Year 2020!

1/6/2020

0 Comments

 
Happy New Year and New Decade!

We love to take a minute after the holidays and festivities settle, to reflect on all the wonderful things we accomplished in 2019.  It was such an amazing year for us here at Cape Cod Celebrations and once again we cannot express how grateful we are for the support and love we receive from friends, family and vendors in the industry.


Here is a look back at some of the fabulous things that happened in 2019!
Picture
Photo Credit: Organic Photography
30 Tented Events from
Plymouth to Provincetown
Picture
Photo Credit: Mercedes Baker Phorography
9 Other Celebrations
Rehearsal Dinners, Big Fake Weddings,
Non-Profit Events, Oh My!
Picture
Attended The Knot Gala in
​New York City!

Picture
Photo Credit: Jenny Maloney Photography
59 Happily Married Couples
​from Boston to Provincetown

Picture
Photo Credit: Kelly Dillon Photography
17 Featured Weddings,
 Planning Advice & More
!
Picture
Won The Knot
Best of Weddings 2020
0 Comments

To Post or Not to Post...Social Media Tips for Today's Wedding Guest

4/5/2019

0 Comments

 
We were recently asked to share our thoughts on the "unplugged ceremony" for a recent blog post from our friend Christine of Salty Broad Studios.  Talking about social media and the wedding ceremony and getting ready for the first weddings of the season in a couple of months got us thinking it's no better time to talk about social media on the wedding day. Here are tips for maneuvering the "etiquette of digital" when you are a guest at your friend or family member's wedding.

1. Pick Up THE CUES:

Spotted the signage asking for an "upplugged ceremony" and your friends haven't announced their engagement on social media? Maybe sharing pics of their wedding day is not their preference. Or if you see signage with the couples hashtag, and step-by-step instas of their wedding planning, chances are they would love for you to capture and share their wedding weekend.
Pay attention to the clues about how your friends, the couple getting married, want to treat their wedding day.
Picture
Photo: First Mate Photo

2. Remember FOMO IS REAL:

Consider guests who may not be able to attend the wedding due to any number of reasons. Some couples are up against room maximums or budget constraints and may not be able to invite everyone they would like to their wedding day. Keeping details like venue and time under wraps, is a good way to help your friends out and be sensitive to those who may not be able to attend.

3. Wedding Planning has it covered:

Keep in mind the wedding couple have most likely been planning for a long time. Many couples put a lot of thought into who will be their photographer and videographer for the day of. The professionals do their best to capture all of the moments the couple wants on the day of as beautifully as possible. Look out for the professional vendors especially during the wedding ceremony, it's sometimes hard to work around your cellular device in the ceremony aisle or grand exit!
Picture
Photo: Price Burr Phtography

4. SAVE SOME FOR LATER:

Love live streaming every moment of your day? Maybe take a minute and step away from the device and take in all of the details the wedding couple has created for your guest experience. Also, your friends may want to be the first ones to share live moments of the wedding day or pick and choose which moments from the wedding they want to share. #latergram is a thing and we're all about it! 

5. Make it nice:

The lighting is off, the picture is blurry? Keep those images for yourself. Be just as selective as you would be on your wedding day when choosing images to share, the wedding couple will thank you for it! 

Still not sure?

If you aren't sure, then don't! On the wedding day may not be the time to be asking the couple if you can share on social so, let it sit if you aren't sure and connect with them post wedding. 
We done mean to discourage pics of gorgeous details, selfies of you and the couple or hashtagging your heart out but, we do encourage responsible sharing! 
​​​
Picture
Photo: First Mate Photo
0 Comments

Happy New Year 2019!

1/1/2019

1 Comment

 
Happy New Year!

We love to take a minute after the clock strikes midnight to reflect on all the amazing we had in 2018.  It was such a wonderful year for us here at Cape Cod Celebrations and once again we cannot express how grateful we are for the support and love we receive from friends, family and vendors in the industry.


Here is a look back at some of the amazing things that happened in 2018!
Picture
Photo Credit: Ali Rosa Photography
26 Tented Events from
Sagamore Beach to Provincetown
Picture
Photo Credit: First Mate Photography
​14 Other Celebrations
Bridal Showers, Proposals,
Non-Profit Events, Oh My!
Picture
Renovated our new office
at 358 Main!
Picture
Photo Credit: KML Photography
54 Happily Married Couples
Picture
Photo Credit: Katie Noble Photography
17 Featured Weddings,
Featured Advice & More
!
Picture
Named to The Knot
Best of Weddings
Hall of Fame!
1 Comment

CAPE COD COUPLES TELL ALL | Annie & Brian | May 28, 2017

5/28/2018

0 Comments

 
Next up on "Cape Cod Couples Tell All" - meet Annie & Brian!  Jamie had the pleasure of working with them in 2017 at Chatham Bars Inn and it was a weekend to remember!  Even though it has only been a year (Happy Anniversary!) we thought it would be fun to catch up with them and get their thoughts on their Memorial Day Weekend wedding!  Enjoy!
Cape Cod
1. What made you choose Cape Cod for your wedding?
Cape Cod was actually a special place for both of us. Annie’s parents honeymooned on Cape Cod in 1974 and she spent the summer at their house in Harwich for her entire life, and always envisioned getting married on the Cape. Separately, the year before Annie and Brian met, Brian’s parents discovered Chatham Bars Inn and decided it was a great place for the family to come together for Labor Day. Once Annie and Brian started dating, Labor Day on the Cape became a joint family tradition, and, three years later, Brian proposed at Chatham Bars Inn, with both families present, over Labor Day weekend. So, getting married on the Cape was a fairly obvious decision!
 
2. Why would you tell future brides and grooms to get married on Cape Cod? 
The Cape is an “almost” destination wedding. It lets guests be fully focused on the wedding, but it is not too far away from Boston, New York, and other major cities. So it is easy to get to but still feels remote and special. Further, there are so many fun things to do on Cape Cod! We had a blast putting together our website full of recommendations, and sending guests on various trips on the Saturday of our long weekend wedding!


Picture
Picture
All Photos by Bello Photo
Your Wedding!
1. In a three words, how would you describe your wedding?
 
Us. Love Yellow


2. Was your wedding exactly what you had envisioned?
It was even better! We really wanted it to feel down to earth and rustic, yet classy and true to the Cape. We also really wanted to take care of our guests and make sure that everyone had an amazing time (particularly because every single person had to travel to be there!). 
 

3. What was your biggest concern in planning your wedding? 
Honestly, we were just really worried about making everyone happy. We didn’t want anyone to feel excluded or bad, and we wanted to create an environment that made every single person feel like they were part of the fun. We also had a lot of moving pieces, so we were always worried about everything coming together coherently!
 

4. What was your favorite part of the planning process? What was the most difficult part? 
The most difficult part was definitely the guest list! It is never fun to prioritize some people over others, and we were doing that across our own friends and our families. Our biggest piece of advice is that if there are 1 or 2 people on the line invite them! You will never regret having them, but you might regret not inviting them.
Our favorite part was thinking of all of the personal details – what song we would walk in to, getting customized “Brannie” corn hole, etc. We really liked taking the formula and making it scream “us”.
 
 5. 
What was your favorite part of the wedding? 
It is a tie. The first look was definitely a highlight. It was the only time that day (until we got back to our hotel room at 2 am!) that we got to spend alone together, and it was just really fun to take a pause and laugh about the whole ordeal, eat some ice cream (we did our first look at Schoolhouse Ice Cream in Harwich!), and then to pile my wedding dress into our car and drive to CBI, and show up for the actual thing together as a team. We also just had SO much fun after dinner at our wedding when we totally let loose and danced with our friends and each other and just celebrated!
 

6. Looking back, would you change anything about your wedding? If so, what and why? 
This is super minor, and probably speaks to the fact that there is not really anything we would change. But, if we could change one thing, it is that it was REALLY cold at the (outdoor) ceremony, and we wish we had asked the groomsmen to give the bridesmaids their jackets…both because then the girls would not have been actively shivering the whole time AND because that would have made for some pretty cute pictures!
 
7. 
Who was your favorite vendor? 
Ummmm, Jamie Bohlin and Cape Cod Celebrations, obviously. I mean, in all seriousness, Jamie and her team made wedding planning a joy. I had so much fun working with Jamie and she made all of the decisions feel very manageable. Working with her and her team was hands down the best decision that I made in the whole process (other than marrying my husband, of course!).
 
But, if I have to pick a vendor other than Jamie, I think I would say Kate Mann and team at Chatham Bars Inn. Honestly, I was really nervous when we selected the venue that the wedding would feel “cookie cutter” because they do so many, but in the end it felt more personal and true to my husband and me than most other weddings we have been to. We could not have done this without the dedication of Kate, the Chef, and everyone else who listened to our vision and absolutely made it happen.
 

8. What do you think your guests would say their favorite part of your wedding was? 
All of it?? I mean, everything except for the cold ceremony! People really liked our pre-dinner dance set, because it broke up the eating between our long cocktail “hour” and the dinner. They also just loved the band and the dancing in general.
 

9. How would you title your wedding?
“How many fun things can we squeeze into one weekend?!”


Picture
Picture
Wedding Planner
1. Why did you decide to hire a wedding planner?
 
Honestly, Chatham Bars Inn actually required that we have a coordinator because we were doing a tent wedding. I think we would have wanted a planner anyway, just because there were so many moving parts, but I didn’t start seriously looking until I had to.

 

2. For upcoming brides, why do you think it is important for them to consider hiring a planner?
This was literally the best decision we made.  She did many things for me (and I was in grad school so had a lot of time, so I wasn't really offloading to her, she added value beyond that).  Most importantly, she:
  1. Thought of random things I may not have (e.g., we had a vintage pair of skis as our "guest book" which was super awesome) and just made sure I didn't miss anything
  2. Recommended vendors, although I ultimately chose them (she weeded from the world to 5ish options, then I would pick from there)
  3. Managed the various vendors for me, particularly in making sure that we had everything we needed, getting the prices as reasonable as possible, and, mission critically, just making sure everything was ready to go in that two week before period and managing EVERYTHING day/weekend of
  4. Was an overall thought partner...told me when I was being silly and when I wasn't, helped me prioritize things in terms of budget, etc. Also, frankly, helped me think through some of the weird family things that came up and was a general person who knew the industry and what I was experiencing and I could talk to whenever.
  5. Orchestrated all of the day of stuff-- literally, one of our buses got in an accident and we NEVER HEARD ABOUT IT. She just took care of everything. YOu DO NOT WANT TO BE THINKING ABOUT ANYTHING ON THE DAY BEFORE OR OF YOUR WEDDING. TRUST ME. Even if you think you are that chill cool got it together couple, just trust me, weddings bring out the crazy in you and everyone you know.  It is just better if you aren't worried about whether the hors d'oeuvres are going out on time when you are trying to manage pictures with grandma and a nutty photographer.  Also, you don't want to have to move flowers from one place to another or make sure the ceremony programs are in place or ANY of that stuff.  You just want to do you that day.  
 
3. What was it like working with a planner? What was your overall experience like? 
Jamie is so down to earth and straight forward that working with her was incredibly easy! My experience felt like Jamie gave me a high level “work plan” (as in, we should be thinking about flowers, photographer, and a band this month), I gave her some thoughts about my vision for those things, she came back with some options, and I overanalyzed each option and made a decision. She let me be controlling and picky while making sure I checked all of the boxes and helping me find vendors and ideas that really fit with my vision. It just made me feel like no balls would be dropped, but I could still plug in as much (or as little) as I wanted to.
 

4. Why would you recommend Cape Cod Celebrations over other companies? 
I can’t imagine a better thought partner than Jamie – she is smart, funny, thoughtful, and totally “gets it” when you explain your vision. Also, she knows EVERYONE!!! She used to work at Chatham Bars Inn, so she easily navigated working with them, and she clearly has fantastic relationships with all of the other vendors. I can’t tell you how many vendors absolutely raved about Jamie in side conversations – I just think that by working with her you get a leg up internally because she is amazing AND you get a leg up externally because all of the other vendors love her and will work with her to create your vision.
Picture
Picture
Wedding Advice
1. What advice would you give other brides about planning a wedding? 
  1. Give your husband tasks! With timelines! Don’t do it all yourself, because planning together is actually really fun and romantic.
  2. Stop worrying about other people! It is your day! Try not to offend anyone, and then make the day / weekend about you guys.
  3. Pick the 3 things you care about the most and then over-invest in those things, and don’t get worked up about the others. For me, I really cared about the band, so I was neurotic about selecting the band and sending them every song I liked and didn’t like, etc. I did NOT care about flowers, so I forced myself to be more relaxed about those and not engage as much except for the high level vision.
 
2. What was most helpful to you in the planning process? 
Jamie and her timeline. I had my own timeline, but she knew when things had to get done in order to be right for the wedding, so made sure that we didn’t miss anything along the way.
Picture
Picture
How’s married life!? 
Amazing! In many ways, very similar, but in many ways much more chill and familial. We have a puppy now – who is AMAZING – and learning about each other as “parents” has been a whole new adventure! We love being a pseudo little family and finally just stepping back and saying, hey, if all we want to do on Friday night is cuddle our puppy and watch Star Wars, let’s just do that!

View All of the fabulous photos of
Annie & Brian's Wedding Here!

0 Comments

To Tent or Not to Tent Your Wedding on Cape Cod

6/16/2015

0 Comments

 
One of the best things about planning a wedding is putting together an event that really reflects you and your soon-to-be other half! A tented wedding can be the perfect way to show off your style and tailor the details of your big day to you and your beau. You may have your childhood home, the place you first met, or the place you used to summer vacation that stays with you both and you cannot think of another place that would have all the pieces you love and mean so much to you both...so, let’s have a tented wedding!! We have put together a few tips to making sure that tent in the backyard is really the way to go.
Picture
1. Space-
Creating a venue for your guests can be a lot of fun and comfort is key. The bigger your guest list, the more space you will need. Don’t stop at just square footage but also consider the geography of your space. Is it flat? What’s underground? A tenting company can come to your site and give you an idea of what can be safely be done at your location.

2. Power-
Lights, band or DJ, cooking, restrooms, all of these items require a power source. If there is not power near your venue, generators are available through most tent companies but keep your budget in mind. Many weddings can be done on the power from a home or structure on property but, if it’s an older home or you have a 10 piece band, it may not be sufficient.

3. Restrooms-
Your wedding is a 5 or 6 hour event with the bar open and drinks flowing. If there is a house on site, it may be equipped for your event. Many times, you will have to bring facilities in.  We usually recommend portable bathrooms for parties over 50 people. Anyone remember, Meet the Parents?

4. Police-
Many towns and villages (on Cape Cod especially) have strict sound ordinances. Give your local police station a call and inquire about their sounds rules. Better to know that to get a visit on your wedding day! If you are near the water, you may also want to consider the town across the water from you. Sounds travels!

5. Neighbors-
No matter the time of day, those who live near you can also bring a halt to your event. Before you get too far into your wedding plans, check in with your neighbor. They’ll appreciate that you considered them!
6. Parking-
Some of the most beautiful locations are down tight roads or on highly populated streets. Whether you shuttle from a nearby location, or provide a valet, keep in mind roads should remain clear.  

7. Weather-
Whether you are having all of the parts of your wedding in the same location or just cocktail & reception, weather is a factor. Have a Plan B & sometimes even a Plan C for where your guests will go if it’s raining or windy. And rain isn’t the only things to consider, the heat and sun can affect your guests as well.

8. General Impact-
If you are using your neighbor’s or even a rental home’s manicured lawn, keep in mind there are tables, chairs, dance floor & tent being built on those beautiful grounds. They can have an impact. Always make sure the owners of your site understand the scope of your event.   

9. Budget-
Tented weddings can allow for incredible freedom in your wedding planning. You can get creative and really customize your wedding to your vision. While there may be ways to save by purchasing your own alcohol and creating your decor, etc., remember you are creating your venue from scratch. The cost can add up quickly if you haven’t created a budget for yourself.
​

10. Insurance-
A private, tented location can be very intimate and comfortable. You and your guests create some amazing memories in this relaxed, outdoor atmosphere. Lots of pieces go into making a great tented wedding, make sure you're covered for the unforeseen. Peace of mind is worth it!

-written by our Senior Planner Stephanie
0 Comments

Let's talk about getting married!

4/15/2015

0 Comments

 
Picture
You are newly engaged! You have a new accessory that you cannot stop staring at. You’ve told your family, friends, Facebook… you are on cloud nine! This is one of the most exciting times of your life. You are taking the next steps with that person who’s the one. Now what’s on your checklist? First step, picking a date, booking your venue, then booking your wedding planner :)

Full steam ahead with wedding planning! It’s so easy to get lost in the whirlwind of the amazing experience of being engaged and planning what some consider the best day of their lives. We want it to be the best day of your lives but, take a beat. Take a breath. Remember that marriage is a commitment for hopefully the rest of your lives together.
While more and more weddings are non-traditional (not in a church), it’s easy to get swept up in the planning and skip a step that can solidify WHY you are getting married in the first place. Premarital counseling may seem like a thing of the past for many, but you are planning a huge life event, and we recommend at least having a conversation with your fiance about life and where it will take you. These questions may help you ease into the conversation...
  1. What does being married mean to us?
  2. Where are we going to live?
  3. Where do we spend holidays? Special Events?
  4. Are we having kids? How many? Who’s caring for them?
  5. Are we going to practice a religion or spirituality? Are we okay with having more than one religion?
  6. Career? Am I happy where I am or am I going to make a change?
  7. Finances? Prenuptial agreement? Savings?
  8. What do you want for your self 5, 10, 20 years down the line?
  9. What do we consider unfaithfulness?
  10. How do we handle arguments?

Take a weekend... Take a trip together... Have the conversation… Then back to the world of planning… We’ll see you there!

- written by our Senior Planner Stephanie

0 Comments

Cape Cod Wedding - The First Dance

3/11/2015

0 Comments

 
Some couples look forward to it, and some couples just want it to be over, but the first dance is a really beautiful moment for the couple and for the guests at any wedding.  When it comes to planning your first dance we have a couple of recommendations to get it done and get it done right, even if you are deathly afraid of dancing in front of a crowd!
Picture
Timing
We normally recommend that the first dance is done right after cocktail hour once guests are seating in the tent.  If you choose to do introductions of your bridal party or just the bride and groom, right after that announcement is the perfect time to share your dance with everyone and then enjoy your dinner.  Some couples choose to save the first dance for after dinner, which is also acceptable.

Length
Just because your first dance song is six minutes long doesn’t mean that the band or DJ has to play the whole song for you.  Talk with your band and/or DJ and let them know how long you want the song to be and when a good time would be to fade it out.  If you do want to dance to the whole song, think about inviting your bridal party or other guests to the dance floor half way through the song so that you don’t lose everyone’s attention.

Song Selection
When you start thinking about your first dance song, compile a list of songs that remind you of each other or songs that have really played a role in your relationship.  Then sit down and play all of the songs you came up with and do a “First Dance Test”.  If you can’t really dance to the song then it makes it easier to take that one off the list and move on to another one.  Now, not all dance songs have to be slow songs!  I have seen many couples dance to songs that are more upbeat like Hall and Oates “You Make My Dreams Come True”.
​

Dance Lessons
While I think dance lessons are a great idea for couples to get down the basics for their first dance, I am not an advocate for a choreographed first dance.  The main reason for this is that when you are sharing your first dance with your new spouse, you want to be focusing on him/her and the moment you are in, instead of thinking about the dance steps and what one you may forget.  If you want to do a fun, choreographed song, save it for later in the night and have it be a surprise with less pressure!
0 Comments
<<Previous

    Plan. Relax. Enjoy.

    At Cape Cod Celebrations, your vision is our brand.  Learn more about how we can help you pull together your beautiful Cape Cod Wedding.

    RSS Feed

    Archives

    January 2023
    December 2022
    November 2022
    October 2022
    August 2022
    June 2022
    May 2022
    April 2022
    January 2022
    May 2021
    April 2021
    March 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    October 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    August 2019
    July 2019
    June 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    January 2019
    August 2018
    May 2018
    April 2018
    February 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    January 2017
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016
    June 2015
    May 2015
    April 2015
    March 2015
    February 2015
    January 2015
    December 2014
    November 2014
    September 2014
    August 2014
    July 2014
    June 2014
    May 2014
    April 2014
    March 2014
    February 2014
    January 2014
    December 2013
    October 2013
    September 2013
    August 2013
    July 2013
    June 2013
    May 2013
    April 2013
    March 2013
    February 2013
    January 2013
    December 2012
    November 2012
    September 2012
    August 2012
    July 2012
    June 2012
    May 2012
    April 2012
    March 2012
    February 2012
    January 2012
    September 2011
    August 2011
    July 2011
    March 2011
    February 2011
    January 2011
    December 2010
    November 2010
    October 2010
    August 2010
    July 2010
    January 2010
    December 2009
    November 2009

    Categories

    All
    All About Flowers For Weddings
    Bello Photo
    Bouquets
    Bourne Farm
    Boutonniere
    Bridal Shower
    Bridal Shower Ideas
    Buzzards Bay Wedding Planner
    Cape Cod
    Cape Cod 2014
    Cape Cod 2015
    Cape Cod 2019
    Cape Cod 2020
    Cape Cod At Home Wedding
    Cape Cod Backyard Wedding
    Cape Cod Beach Ceremony
    Cape Cod Beach Wedding
    Cape Cod Big Fake Wedding
    Cape Cod Birthday
    Cape Cod Birthday Party
    Cape Cod Birthday Planner
    Cape Cod Bridal Event
    Cape Cod Bridal Expo
    Cape Cod Bridal Show
    Cape Cod Bridal Show Alternative
    Cape Cod Bride
    Cape Cod Bridesmaid
    Cape Cod Casual Gourmet
    Cape Cod Caterer
    Cape Cod Catering
    Cape Cod Celebration
    Cape Cod Ceremony
    Cape Cod Ceremony Music
    Cape Cod Chris And Peyton
    Cape Cod Christmas
    Cape Cod Cocktail Hour
    Cape Cod Cocktail Hour Music
    Cape Cod Corporate
    Cape Cod Corporate Retreat
    Cape Cod Couple
    Cape Cod Destination Management
    Cape Cod Destination Management Company
    Cape Cod Destination Wedding
    Cape Cod DIY Wedding
    Cape Cod Eco-friendly Wedding
    Cape Cod Elopement
    Cape Cod Emergency Kit
    Cape Cod Engagement
    Cape Cod Engagements
    Cape Cod Escort Cards
    Cape Cod Event Planner
    Cape Cod Events
    Cape Cod Fairytale Wedding
    Cape Cod Fake Wedding
    Cape Cod Family Reunion
    Cape Cod First Dance
    Cape Cod First Look
    Cape Cod Flip Book
    Cape Cod Food Truck
    Cape Cod Gay And Lesbian Wedding
    Cape Cod Grange Hall
    Cape Cod Groom
    Cape Cod Guest Book
    Cape Cod Halloween
    Cape Cod Halloween Wedding
    Cape Cod Holiday Party
    Cape Cod Honeymoon
    Cape Cod Inspiration
    Cape Cod Internship
    Cape Cod Kids
    Cape Cod Kids Birthday Party
    Cape Cod Knot Best Of Weddings
    Cape Cod Lollicakes
    Cape Cod Maid Of Honor
    Cape Cod Marriage
    Cape Cod Marriage Counseling
    Cape Cod Matron Of Honor
    Cape Cod Mini-moon
    Cape Cod Mother Of The Bride
    Cape Cod Mother Of The Groom
    Cape Cod Museum Of Art
    Cape Cod Nautical Wedding
    Cape Cod New Year
    Cape Cod Notwedding
    Cape Cod Officiant
    Cape Cod Off Season Wedding
    Cape Cod Outdoor Ceremony
    Cape Cod Party Blog
    Cape Cod Party Planner
    Cape Cod Photo Booth
    Cape Cod Photographer
    Cape Cod Pinterest
    Cape Cod Place Cards
    Cape Cod Program Design
    Cape Cod Proposal Locations
    Cape Cod Proposal Planner
    Cape Cod Proposal Planning
    Cape Cod Real Wedding
    Cape Cod Rehearsal
    Cape Cod Rehearsal Dinner
    Cape Cod Small Business
    Cape Cod Small Business Owner Of The Year 2014
    Cape Cod Snow Wedding
    Cape Cod Summer Wedding
    Cape Cod Surprise
    Cape Cod Tea Party
    Cape Cod Tent
    Cape Cod Tented Reception
    Cape Cod Tented Wedding
    Cape Cod Theme Wedding
    Cape Cod Things To Do
    Cape Cod Train Bridge
    Cape Cod Wedding
    Cape Cod Wedding Advice
    Cape Cod Wedding Award
    Cape Cod Wedding Backup Plans
    Cape Cod Wedding Band
    Cape Cod Wedding Blog
    Cape Cod Wedding Blogger
    Cape Cod Wedding Caterer
    Cape Cod Wedding Ceremony
    Cape Cod Wedding Colors
    Cape Cod Wedding Dance
    Cape Cod Wedding DJ
    Cape Cod Wedding Drinks
    Cape Cod Wedding Duties
    Cape Cod Wedding Escort Cards
    Cape Cod Wedding Event
    Cape Cod Wedding Expo
    Cape Cod Wedding Favors
    Cape Cod Wedding Fireworks
    Cape Cod Wedding Florist
    Cape Cod Wedding Flowers
    Cape Cod Wedding Food
    Cape Cod Wedding Formalities
    Cape Cod Wedding Guest Book
    Cape Cod Wedding Help
    Cape Cod Wedding Ice Cream Truck
    Cape Cod Wedding Ideas
    Cape Cod Wedding Inspiration
    Cape Cod Wedding Invitations
    Cape Cod Wedding Menu
    Cape Cod Wedding Menu Cards
    Cape Cod Wedding Music
    Cape Cod Wedding Paper Ideas
    Cape Cod Wedding Photographer
    Cape Cod Wedding Photography
    Cape Cod Wedding Pinterest
    Cape Cod Wedding Planner
    Cape Cod Wedding Planning
    Cape Cod Wedding Plans
    Cape Cod Wedding Receiving Line
    Cape Cod Wedding Reception
    Cape Cod Wedding Rsvp
    Cape Cod Weddings
    Cape Cod Wedding Save The Dates
    Cape Cod Wedding Season
    Cape Cod Wedding Seating Chart
    Cape Cod Wedding Show
    Cape Cod Wedding Surprise
    Cape Cod Wedding Time Line
    Cape Cod Wedding Toast
    Cape Cod Wedding Vendors
    Cape Cod Wedding Weather
    Cape Cod Wedding Weather Plans
    Cape Cod Winter Wedding
    Casual Gourmet
    Chatham Bars Inn
    Chatham Wedding
    Children At Weddings
    Chris And Peyton Lambton
    Christmas Party Cape Cod
    Cocktail Hour
    Cocktail Hour Food
    Cocktail Hour Games
    Cocktail Hour Music
    Cocktail Hour Photos
    Couples Tell All
    Danny Walsh
    Dartmouth Wedding Planner
    Destination Wedding
    DIY Wedding
    Dulce Press
    Eco-friendly Cape Cod Wedding
    Eco-friendly Wedding
    Eco-friendly Wedding Ideas
    Eloping On Cape Cod
    Every Last Detail Blog
    Facebook
    Father Of The Bride
    First Dance
    Flower Wall
    Gather Around The Table
    Grazier Photography
    Hashtag
    Holiday Party Cape Cod
    Instagram
    Intern
    Kelly Hike
    Kids At Weddings
    Knot Best Of Weddings
    Knot Best Of Weddings 2013
    Lilacs
    Lisa George
    Marion Wedding Planner
    Marriage Can Be Murder
    Martha's Vineyard
    Mattapoisett Wedding Planner
    Mini-moon
    Nantucket
    Nauticus Marina
    New Bedford Wedding Planner
    New Seabury Country Club
    Notwedding Atlanta
    Notwedding Cape Cod
    Ocean Edge
    Organic Photography
    Patrice Milley
    Personal Flowers
    Pinterest
    Pinterest Weddings
    Popponesset
    Postponement
    Ralph Alswang
    Real Cape Cod Wedding
    Real Wedding Feature
    Rose All Day
    Scottie Images
    Sea Crest
    Sea Crest Cape Cod
    Sea View
    Signature Drink
    Social Media
    Social Media Etiquette
    South Coast Wedding Planner
    Sperry Tents
    Stacey Hedman Photography
    Style Me Pretty
    Surprise Wedding Ideas
    The Casual Gourmet
    The Notwedding
    The Notwedding Cape Cod
    Unplugged Ceremony
    Unplugged Wedding
    Wareham Wedding Planner
    Wedding
    Wedding Blog
    Wedding Book
    Wedding Emergency Kit
    Wedding Guest Book
    Wedding Guest Book Ideas
    Wedding Novel
    Wedding On Cape Cod
    Wedding Pinterest
    Wedding Shower
    Wedding Shower Ideas
    Weddings On Cape Cod
    Weddingwire.com Brides Choice Award 2013
    Wellfleet Preservation Hall
    Wellfleet Wedding
    Wequassett
    Winston Flowers
    Yellow

    RSS Feed

Home

Services

Love Notes

Contact

Copyright © 2019 - Cape Cod Celebrations. All rights reserved.
  • Home
  • Services
    • Wedding Planning
    • Proposal Planning
    • Party Planning
  • Love Notes
  • Press
  • Real Weddings
  • Meet
  • Contact
  • Blog
  • Client Login