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January222019NOCOMMENTS

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Wedding Planning

Plan a Wedding in 6 Months or Less? Yes, You Can!

We put together a wedding checklist with some helpful tips for making this magic happen!

 

Enjoying the fun of the wedding reception!

If you’re aiming for a short engagement, you may initially contend with some naysayers who insist it takes a year or more to plan a wedding. Rest assured however that with a good dose of motivation and organization you can indeed plan a wedding in under six months…and with minimum stress. And remember, there’s nothing that says you must have a traditional wedding. The most important thing is you’re surrounded by the people that mean the most to you in a environment that most reflects you, not what you do! So, think outside of the box and have some fun! We put together a wedding checklist with some helpful tips for making this magic happen!

Catering is always an important decision for your special day.

Six months before your big day:

  • Set a date
  • Set a budget
  • Assemble your wedding party
  • Create your guest list
  • Enlist the help of a wedding planner
  • Select your venue
  • Select your caterer
  • Select your vendors (officiant, photographer, videographer, florist, band/DJ, dessert vendor)
  • Figure out what each of you are wearing for the big day and order it, so you have time to do alterations.
  • Reserve room blocks for guests at a nearby hotel
  • Set up wedding registry (you could skip this and pick an adventure or a charity)
  • Set up your wedding website (optional, but helps facilitate communication)

 

***At this stage your venue is the most important step. You’ll need to be flexible with what dates are available, but remember you’re thinking outside of the box. Create a Wedding that Reflects You as a Couple. They will have many other vendor recommendations that work well with each other. Choosing a venue that offers the ceremony and reception in the same place will save you a lot of time working on wedding day logistics.

Fun and simple decor can make planning easy.

Five months before your big day:

  • Mail out save-the-date invitations
  • Start writing thank you’s as soon as you begin receiving gifts
  • Purchase your accessories (shoes, jewelry, undergarments)
  • Choose wedding party attire
  • Select more vendors (hairstylist, makeup artist, transportation – limo service?)
  • Shop for wedding invitations

***Don’t be afraid to lean on your vendors! After all they are professionals who have helped countless couples making decisions and deliver wonderful events.

Four months before your big day:

  • Order your wedding bands
  • Book rehearsal dinner venue and plan rehearsal dinner

 

***Depending on what you have in store for your ceremony, you may not even need to have a rehearsal dinner.  Plan an informal “Night Before” party

Three months before your big day:

Surrounded by your loved ones is the most important part of the celebration.

  • Send out your wedding invitations if you’re planning a destination wedding
  • Choose your wedding favors
  • Taste test food and place your catering order
  • Taste test desserts and place your order
  • Meet with your hairstylist and makeup artist for a consult/trial
  • Plan your honeymoon

 

***Don’t skip the taste testing… think of them as wonderful little date nights! Keep the planning process fun!

Two months before your big day:

  • Send out your invitations if you’re planning a local wedding (Request RSVP’s within 2-3 weeks of wedding date)
  • If you’re having a dance, select your song list
  • Buy your wedding party gifts
  • Make sure you each have parties to celebrate with your friends!

 

***Be social… yes, share with your friends the fun you’re having making this celebration happen!

Sharing your love on your magical day.

One month before your big day:

  • Obtain your marriage license
  • Confirm all the details with individual vendors
  • Confirm final RSVP count and create a seating chart for your reception
  • Check the forecast and spend a little time on what ifs
  • Finalize and share your wedding day schedule… the easiest way to minimize wedding day stress
  • Schedule final dress/suit fitting and break in your wedding shoes

    ***This is the perfect time to tie up loose ends and focus on the little details that will make your wedding feel personal and stress-free.

 

The day before your big day:

  • Relax and gather with friends and family… you’ve done all the planning by now, time to let go and enjoy.

 

Your big day finally arrives! Enjoy the fruits of all your planning. Take it all in. All of these loved ones are gathered for YOU! This is an incredible celebration you (and your guests!) will never forget.  The Gardens is here and ready to assist in making your wedding day extra special even on a short time frame.  We’ve worked with hundreds of vendors who can pull together just about anything you can imagine. Call 651-264-9510 to get planning your dream wedding day!

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January222019NOCOMMENTS

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Wedding Planning

Helpful Tips for your Outdoor Wedding: Hope for the Best but Plan for Rain

Pop up showers and thunderstorms are not uncommon but don’t let that rain on your parade…or your wedding!

In the months leading up to your wedding day, you undertake a tremendous amount of planning. If you’re planning an outdoor wedding, this list is sure to include accommodations for inclement weather. During the summer and fall months, pop up showers and thunderstorms are not uncommon but don’t let that rain on your parade…or your wedding! When making wedding plans keep these tips in mind so you’re prepared for whatever Mother Nature decides to send your way.

Overcast skies make for lovely and dramatic photos. Photo By: Gretchen Hunt Photography

Prepare Your Guests While you have been planning for your special day for some time and know all the ins and outs of your venue, your guests don’t. Make sure to let your guests know what is appropriate to wear regardless of the weather.  Do let your guest know if rain is forecasted, what would be best to wear and bring along for the day. Add a section to your wedding day website to keep guests informed.

Clear Umbrellas make the perfect accessory for a rainy day in The Lath House. Photo by: Tessa June Photography

Prepare Your Vendors Be sure to read the fine print on all the contracts you sign. Will the musicians still play if it’s misting or lightly raining? If table linens, decorations, ceremony chairs, etc. end up wet or muddy what “falls under your umbrella” in terms of responsibility?

Umbrellas! This is one of the easiest ways to ensure that a little precip doesn’t put a damper on the day. For as little as $2.99 at your local IKEA, you can buy a slew of these and keep them on hand ‘just in case’. Be sure to choose clear umbrellas for the bride and groom since they will allow light to pass through and keep shadows off faces. If the weather is favorable and the umbrellas unused, they can be easily returned.

Stay Warm With rain, the sun hides behind the clouds and it cools off.  When the temp drops it’s great to have some blankets available for guests and a pretty wrap for the bride and bridesmaids.

If you opt out of getting married in the rain, you can always get married under The Garden’s Wedding Reception tent. Photo By: Mark Fierst Photography

Towels It’s wise to keep some of these on hand and out of sight in the instance you need to wipe surfaces down after a rain.

Protect Your Feet Not only trendy but also practical, it’s smart to stash away some stylish rainboots for each member of the bridal party as well as the parents of the happy couple. If you need to bust them out, look forward to some memorable photo ops! Another great option for brides would be slip on heel protectors so stiletto’s do not sink into the ground.

Protect Your Decor Securing and stowing some plastic tarps makes it easy to protect flowers, chairs, decor etc. in short order without the hassle of hauling everything into a tent or underneath a pavilion…

Shelter Even if your wedding is on a beach or in an open field, you can easily rent and erect a portable party tent. It gives guests a break from the heat and, strung with lights, makes a magical ballroom. What’s more? If it rains, you’re covered.

A few rainy clouds make The Lath House lights shine so much brighter.

Remember that there are Memories in the Rain! Last but not least, attitude is everything. Obviously, rain on your wedding day isn’t ideal and it’s ok to be upset. Just don’t stay there. Maintain the resolve that this is your special day and come hell or high water, nothing will ruin it. So make it memorable! Dance in the rain! Ask your photographer to capture all the funny little moments the rain is sure to provide. When you embrace what is out of your control, your guests will follow suit.

Beauty after the storm After the rain, couples often forget how beautiful the atmosphere can become. Some of the most memorable wedding photos happen in moments right after a summer shower passes. Like when Mother Nature delivers a little extra magic with a rainbow stretching across the sky adding a once in a lifetime backdrop to your wedding portraits. With moments like this, even a little rain can turn into something truly beautiful on your wedding day.

The Gardens of Castle Rock is all about making your “Best Day Ever” whatever the weather. We would love the opportunity to answer any questions you have about hosting your amazing outdoor wedding at The Gardens. Give us a call at 651-264-9510 or email us at info@thegardensofcastlerock.com

You can’t have rainbows without the rain.

 

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July112018NOCOMMENTS

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Wedding Planning

Get The Groom Looking Good on His Wedding Day

Get The Groom Looking Good on His Wedding Day

Looking your best equals feeling your best!

 

Ready to get this adventure going! The Gardens of Castle Rock

There’s no doubt about it – all eyes will be on the bride on your wedding day. But looking your best = feeling your best, and you will want to be both on the biggest day of your life! Whether you’re a groom reading this, or a bride who will be slyly sticking this in their fiancé’s inbox, you will want to read the following tips we’re giving you. These will ensure the groom’s body, skin and hair are looking better than ever for your wedding!

Everything should be perfect for your best day ever…

Body
Work out and unwind. It might seem contradictory but getting fit will have you looking and feeling like a million bucks on your wedding day. In the months leading up to the wedding, you and your fiancé can start a new workout regimen. Whether this is hitting the gym, playing tennis or going for a run, do what you enjoy to help keep the exercise fun and not feel too much like, well, exercise. Working out will help you feel less stressed and stay focused on what’s really important during all of the crazy wedding planning. Getting your body in shape for your wedding is really just a bonus for how much exercising will help you relax when you’re feeling overwhelmed about getting married!

 

 

 

Smooth… The Gardens of Castle Rock – Image by Anthologie

Skin
Taking care to properly moisturize and shave for your wedding will be something you’ll be glad you thought of when you have your wedding photographer up close and personal with you. First, you will want to use the best razor to shave to ensure you have a smooth face to start. Whether you want to be clean shaven or rock your signature beard, having a new razor will help

Looking good… Feeling good at The Gardens of Castle Rock

you get that close shave or straight lines against your facial hair – both a must when you’re going to be in hundreds of pictures in one day! Then, moisturizing your face with a well-loved facial cream will finish off the look. Sticking with a moisturizer you have been using or know you can trust means you won’t have any surprise breakouts the day of your wedding, and you will have a super-soft and smooth face all day and night. Your bride won’t be able to keep her hands off of you!

Hair
It may come as a shock, but your hair should not be an afterthought when it comes to your wedding, it may be something you have to think of months in advance! If you want to try out a new haircut, hairstyle, or even products, you should be planning to do so far before your big day. If you’ve been eyeing a new, trendy cut, try it out about 6 months before the wedding, this way if you don’t love it, you can grow it out and try something else. The same goes for a new style, you will want to be able to play around with a few different looks and products, and this could take a few weeks until you can perfectly achieve your desired look.

Wedding day body, skin, and hair are important, but don’t forget a few weeks before the wedding, make time for a suit fitting to ensure everything fits perfectly. Don’t forget the cufflinks and comfortable dress shows that he should break in before the big day! These small preparations make a huge difference in photos and help the groom feel polished and ready to celebrate.

***Featured image by Penny Photographics

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June282018NOCOMMENTS

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Wedding Planning

Ten Garden-Inspired DIY Wedding Favors for your Spring or Summer Wedding!

Ten Garden-Inspired DIY Wedding Favors for your Spring or Summer Wedding!

You’re in luck if you’re planning a garden themed wedding!

Tiny glass terrariums with little plants and the guests place cards for table seating. The Gardens of Castle Rock

There are about a zillion details to consider when planning a wedding. Choosing wedding favors is just one of the many decisions a bride and groom can make. If you’re planning a garden-themed wedding, however, you’re in luck. We’ve weeded through those zillions of ideas and pulled up our Top 10!

1. Terrariums: The sky’s the limit here. You can customize terrariums with moss, charcoal, small stones, glass…and add ferns, succulent plants, air plants – even miniature fairies!

A little potted succulent was a wonderful wedding favor.

2. Mini potted herbs or vegetables: Potting herbs or veggies in decorative little pots (possibly wrapped in burlap?) are an eco, practical and aromatic way to thank your guests for celebrating with you on your big day.

3. Glass boxes with a fern: Choose a tiny fern and place it in an open glass box on top of each guest’s place card. No two are alike which adds to the charm and the glass box makes a lovely gift.
4. Pressed flower bookmarks: For a delicate and meaningful favor, create handmade bookmarks using pressed flowers sealed between pieces of clear laminate. You can choose blooms that match your wedding palette and tie them off with a bit of ribbon. Not only are these a beautiful keepsake, but they are also practical and long-lasting, giving your guests a small piece of your day that they can enjoy again and again. Great for the bookworm couple!

5. Chocolate flower bark boxes: There are numerous ways to incorporate flowers into your garden-inspired, including into the food! A box of homemade flower petal-laced white chocolate bark in decorative boxes makes a perfect little thank you.
6. Blossom hearts: Consider buying paper embedded with wildflower seeds and cut it into hearts or flowers using a die-cut machine. These paper shapes can serve as place cards and guests can take them home and plant them.

Each guest had a special glass to be used all night and to bring home. The Gardens of Castle Rock

7. Bellini petal lollipops: What could be better than flower petals and mint leaves suspended in transparent, rose-tinted candy with a champagne twist?

Honey for your honey and all your guests in personalized jars. The Gardens of Castle Rock

8. Personalized mini glass jars: These are customizable to the max! Secure mini glass jars with wire-snap lids and fill them with anything from homemade jam to dried herbs to local honey…or anything in between! They’re adorable on their own or can be wrapped in twine for a little ‘country’ flair.
9. DIY botanical wood slices: Purchase these small wood slices at your local craft store. Then, with an inkjet printer and waxed paper transfer a floral imagine onto the wood and voilà – vintage coasters!
10. Succulents: These are everywhere on wedding scene right now! Consider adding these to the terrariums ( see #1), potting them in tiny, multi-colored pots and placing them on reception tables or bagging them in brown bags (embellished with a special message) for each guest to pick from when they leave.

Keep your love growing with flower seed packets! The Gardens of Castle Rock

11. BONUS Idea ~ Flower Seed Packets: Love grows at The Gardens! So why not send some of that home with your guests! Seed packets are a great why for your weeding to grow on in the gardens of your guests.

There’s no better place to have a garden-themed wedding then at a garden wedding venue. Take a look at many of the wonderful areas at The Gardens of Castle Rock in our Photo Gallery. Feel free to drop us a note to get more information on planning your dream garden wedding at info@thegardensofcastlerock.com

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June132018NOCOMMENTS

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Wedding Planning

Helpful Tips for Incorporating Your Dog into Your Wedding Day!

Helpful Tips for Incorporating Your Dog into Your Wedding Day!

Incorporating their four-legged friend into their wedding isn’t even a question…

 

When they’re part of the family… of course they’re part of the wedding! Photo by Eric Lundgren Photography

For many couples, deciding whether to incorporate their four-legged friend into their wedding isn’t even a question – it’s a must. These furry friends have a way of wiggling themselves into our hearts and carving out a significant role in our personal lives and in our relationships. Naturally then, when it comes to what we may look back on as the single most important day of our lives, many of us want Fido to be a part of it.

Excited to be part of the big day… and to have a pretty flower collar! Photo by Eric Lundgren Photography

Here is a list of important things to consider when adding a pup to your wedding!
● When choosing your venue, ask upfront about their pet policy. Oftentimes, when a venue is dog-friendly they require proof of immunizations, licensing etc. prior to the event while other venues don’t allow dogs for health or legal reasons.
● Consider your bridal party and your guests. Does anyone have severe allergies to dogs or perhaps a dog phobia? It’s always a good idea to be sensitive to those present and give people a heads up in the invitation that your four-legged friend will be a part of the festivities.

● Designate someone as your pet-handler for the day. It will work best to choose someone who enjoys dogs and is not in the bridal party, so they can give your pooch all they attention they require. Responsibilities for your handler may include providing food, water, treats for bribery and walks as needed! Vigilance is also required on the part of your handler to keep Fido from relieving himself on any plants and to keep him out of the chocolate! It’s also important to familiarize your handler with basic commands that your dog is accustomed to.

● Create a quiet retreat space at the venue where your pup can relax and recharge until it’s time for their big debut. Whether it’s a shaded outdoor nook, a nearby room at your venue where they are allowed, giving them a place to decompress helps prevent over stimulation and keeps them comfortable throughout the celebration.

 

Isn’t this just the best day ever!!

● Consider your dog’s temperament. How do they handle a long day? Do they do well with strangers and commotion? It’s possible that after this analysis you may choose to incorporate your pooch in more subtle ways as opposed to giving them a front and center role. Be sure to choose a role that is well-suited for your pup.

● Thinking about designating your dog as the ring bearer? It may be wise to have your pet-handler walk him down the aisle on a short leash as opposed to letting him run down the aisle on their own – unless you’re ok with a little unpredictability!
● Practice makes perfect! Practice your dog’s role over and over until it’s familiar for both of you. This will relieve much stress on your big day.
● If you decide to include your pup, make sure your flowers and plants aren’t toxic for dogs!

Flower girl and ring bearer… precious.

● Ask your pet-handler to take your pup on a pre-ceremony walk to avoid any “situations” during ceremony time.
● If your pup is dressed up for the occasion, make sure it’s a simple accessory or outfit that’s comfortable. You don’t want them tugging and chewing at their attire!

If for one reason or another you can’t incorporate your pooch into the ceremony but want to include them somehow in your special day, consider…
● Including your pup in wedding day portraits

The dogs point of view… yes that’s a GoPro on my back!

● Adding your pup’s picture to wedding announcements, invites or reception table cards or including dog-centric wedding favors for a paw-sitively special tribute to your favorite four-legged friend.

Thank you to Eric Lundgren Photography for sharing some great photos…  follow the link see all of Allison & Elliot’s wedding day photos with their beautiful dogs at The Gardens.

The Gardens of Castle Rock is pet friendly!  We love when couples include their dogs on their wedding day! We would love the opportunity to help you make your best day ever with your dog, don’t hesitate to contact us to start creating your dream wedding day!! Email at info@thegardensofcastlerock.com or call 651-264-9510

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April92018NOCOMMENTS
Carri & Sam at The Gardens of Castle Rock ~ Minnesota Garden Wedding - White Pergola on the Grand Promenade

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Wedding Planning

Tips for a Timeless Wedding Ceremony

Tips for a Timeless Wedding Ceremony

Surefire elements of a timeless wedding ceremony….

 

Timeless… the wedding veil and black tuxes.

Your wedding day is arguably the single most memorable day of your life. It’s a day you will reminisce about for decades to come – the details of which will likely be passed on in words, pictures and videos for generations. (But no pressure, right?!) It’s no wonder most couples feel overwhelmed when it comes to planning their perfect day. So what are some surefire elements of a timeless wedding ceremony that won’t leave you cringing in 5…10…50 years? Let’s take a look!

• Go for the gold: When you think of gold you probably think of glitz and glam but when you consider incorporating this color into your wedding palate do not overlook its innate timelessness. Whether it’s front and center in your ceremony (bridesmaid dresses) or woven throughout your ceremony in more subtle ways (candelabras, programs…) you can be certain that regardless of the season and your budget you can’t go wrong with this metallic touch.

Sharing hand written vows with each other.

• Vows: Perhaps you prefer traditional wedding vows but be careful of defaulting to them because they’re, well…traditional. Consider searching online for ideas or writing you own vows. The ones that will stand the test of time are the ones that hold the most meaning to you as the couple.

• Music: Don’t be complacent and settle for cheesy wedding music sung by an equally cheesy wedding singer. Do you prefer a wedding score rich in tradition? Do you want to incorporate music that is unique to your love story? Do you have a talented musician in your family that would do you the honor of playing in your wedding? Choose music selections and presentation that you both find personal and meaningful.

 

Special music by special people… mothers of the bride and groom.

• The wedding veil: Dating back to ancient times, the veil is a cornerstone of the bride’s wedding attire. Historically, it is attributed to keeping away evil spirits, symbolizing chastity and modesty and helping to facilitate an arranged marriage ceremony (so the groom doesn’t change his mind if he doesn’t like what he sees!) In modern times, however, a veil worn over a bride’s face or behind her head adds a elegant touch to her stunning dress and frames her glowing countenance.

• Flower petal aisle: Much like a veil, the flower petal aisle was once thought to ward off evil spirits. Today, however, it is an endearing prelude to the bride’s grand entrance. The petals are either spread before the ceremony or a flower girl walks down the aisle ahead of the bride dropping petals from her basket.

• Old, new, borrowed, blue: Based off of the old English rhyme, the idea of the bride incorporating good luck charms into her wedding day attire has indeed endured through the years. Also, working in an old, new,

Flower girls sprinkling the aisle with beautiful flowers.

borrowed and blue item is a great way to honor loved ones or honor the memory of loved ones on your big day.

 

• The black tux: What could be more classic or stunning than the black tuxedo? It’s difficult to imagine looking back many years from now and wincing at this sophisticated choice!

• Matching bridesmaid dresses: Although the trend of mismatched bridesmaid dresses is on the upswing most trends are eventually ushered out by a shift back to tradition and timelessness. Sticking to your Mom’s and Grandma’s idea of matching bridesmaid dresses will underlie your wedding’s timeless flair.

• Floral and fabric aisle markers: When your guests arrive at the ceremony greet them with a stunning floral pathway up and down the main aisle. Consider draping fabric between each row-end floral display as well. Then seat guests from the outside of each seat section to allow for a more controlled flow of traffic. Both of these elements add a grand and graceful backdrop to the main event – you!

• Unplugged ceremony: to preserve a truly timeless atmosphere is to ask guests to put away their phones and be fully present. An unplugged ceremony keeps the focus where it belongs and you’ll be glad you did when you look back at your wedding photos and you’re not seeing a sea of screens. Your photographer can capture all the genuine emotion instead of distracted faces. Keeping everyone immersed in the same memory gives a sense of intimacy and authenticity that will never go out of style.

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January162018NOCOMMENTS

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Wedding Planning

5 Most Asked Wedding Invitation Etiquette Questions, Answered

5 Most Asked Wedding Invitation Etiquette Questions, Answered

When should we… How do we… How long do we… Relax, we’ve answered some timely questions on wedding invitation etiquette.

 

Working with a designer can help considerably with creating invitations and including all of the correct information.

We know it’s cold outside and you just celebrated the New Year, but spring and summer weddings are just around the corner! It’s time to start thinking about your wedding invitations. We’ve got answers for some of the most frequently asked questions about wedding invitation etiquette.

 

1 .  When should I send my wedding invitations?

If you’re getting married in-town and most of your guests are local, six to eight weeks is traditional and typical. But if you have many out-of-town guests or are having a destination wedding, you’ll want to give guests a little more time. Three to four months should do the trick.

 

2 .  We don’t want kids at our wedding. How do we tell our guests?

Traditional wedding etiquette dictates that the people included on your invitation are invited to the wedding. If you’re inviting a married couple, put both names on the invitation. Same goes for any other couple. When inviting singles, make sure to add the +1 to let them know it’s okay to bring a guest. Couples who choose to invite kids to their wedding may address invitations to “The Smith Family” or include the children’s names on the invitation. So, if you don’t want kids at your wedding, don’t include them on the invitation. Guests should know that unless they see their children invited explicitly, they should arrange for a sitter.

Including kids images on the ‘Save the date for our wedding’ cards let’s everyone know kids are welcome.

 

Always make sure the venue is okay with kids attending events… The Gardens of Castle Rock welcomes kids.

3 .  How long should we give our guests to RSVP?

Getting your RSVPs back early is a real help to your caterer. Most couples ask for RSVPs to be returned no later than four weeks before the wedding. If your wedding guests are mostly local, an RSVP date two weeks prior should be enough time. For a destination wedding, you’ll want to set your RSVP date back seven weeks so guests can make their travel plans and you can follow-up with non-responders.

 

4 .  We should include wedding registry details in our wedding invitation, right?

Nope! Including registry information in your save-the-dates and wedding invitations is considered a faux pas. It implies you’re requiring a gift to attend. Instead, put those details on your wedding website. Then, include the URL of your wedding website on the invitation.

 

5 .  How about our wedding dress code?

It’s perfectly acceptable to include your dress code on your wedding invitation. Most couples choose to put it in the lower righthand corner. If you prefer not to be that explicit, guests will use the formality of your invitation as their guide. An ornate invitation indicates a formal affair; one with a rustic theme indicates the dress code is more casual.

6. Should we include additional inserts?

The answer is yes, only if it adds clarity for your guests. Details like accommodation information, transportation options, timelines, or wedding weekend schedules can be included as separate enclosures inside the card. To forgo these additional inserts, you could direct your guests to your wedding website for additional information, which helps minimize the clutter while still providing everything your guests need to plan ahead.

These are just six of the most frequently asked questions we get about wedding invitation etiquette at The Gardens of Castle Rock. We’re always available to help couples navigate the complicated world of wedding etiquette. For answers to your big wedding questions, contact venue coordinators at The Gardens of Castle Rock today.

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December62017NOCOMMENTS

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Wedding Decor, Wedding Planning

2018 WEDDING TRENDS YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS!

2018 WEDDING TRENDS YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS!

2018 wedding trends are out and couples are paying attention! Let’s take a look at some of the hottest trends for the 2018 wedding season…

 

The Grand Promenade at The Gardens of Castle Rock is formal and elegant… crisp, clean and classic!

There’s no one-size-fits-all wedding “rule” book. In fact, there are as many possibilities for attire, décor, florals, food and drink as there are ideas in each bride and groom’s imagination. And there are an equally infinite number of personal touches and out of the box ideas each couple can incorporate into their ceremony and reception. That being said, every year talented wedding planners, floral designers and wedding vendors create trends that couples can adopt and customize to their individual tastes. 2018 wedding trends are out and couples are paying attention! Let’s take a look at some of the hottest trends for the 2018 wedding season…

• A return to formality – Many couples are once again opting for a formal wedding complete with crisp, clean colors and elegant décor. While black and white remain prevalent color choices for a formal wedding, more couples are choosing navy or midnight blue for the neutral shade in their wedding’s color palate. It’s a formal that incorporates a bit of fancy and sparkle keeping it from appearing “stuffy”. The uber-elegant affair is making a comeback particularly among those couples with a sizable guest list.

Wedding in the Woods at The Gardens is natural and intimate.

• The woodsy look is in – This trend stands in stark contrast to the resurgence of the formal wedding trend and is equally gaining momentum as we look towards 2018. No longer identified as “rustic” this wedding trend is all about nature and greenery. It leaves burlap and the “barn” feel behind in favor of wooden details, green-hued accents and florals that incorporate greens. It may also include décor made from natural elements such as twigs, birch bark, pinecones and cattails. According to Taylor Green of Taylor Elise Events in St. Louis, Missouri, “wooden details can include the invitation, table numbers, seating cards, tags, chargers, signage, chairs and tables”. The woodsy trend is a particularly popular choice for a more-intimate outdoor ceremony.

 

 

The ever so classy ‘Naked Cake’

• Hanging florals – No longer are flowers reserved for ground-level admiration only. Suspended arrangements are in. In combination with simply-decorated guest tables this hot trend will wow guests with cascading and unconventional splendor and will create the feeling of a secret garden setting.

• The naked wedding cake – In contrast to its elaborately-decorated and frosted, traditional counterpart, the naked wedding cake conveys an understated beauty. This next year more wedding cakes will forgo the frosting and fondant and stun guests by revealing the cake’s interior texture and colors. Placed on a silver pedestal and adorned with fresh flowers, the naked wedding cake adds just the right balance of elegance and whimsy.
• The millennial pink wedding dress – While the white wedding dress is still certainly a popular go-to for brides everywhere, millennial pink is attracting more attention. In 2018 more brides will opt for a dress that reflects this emerging trend. The light bluish pink hue isn’t too bold yet adds a unique flair for a delicate statement as one-of-a-kind as the bride herself.

Glam tones… beautiful, beautiful colors!

• “Glam” tones – Custom Navy, Cream Rose, White & Custom Green play marvelously together in this trendy, preppy-meets-pretty palate. From classic to elegant, couples will embrace the ageless appeal and versatility of these hues.

 

• “Sprinkled” tones – Custom Teal, Lavender, Turquoise & Gold are a winning bunch. Think summertime! The teal, lavender and turquoise shades convey a fun, carefree, cotton candy vibe while the gold adds a perfect splash of glamour for a warm-weather wedding. Distinctive and alluring, 2018 is sure to pull these tones into the wedding spotlight.

• Immersive guest experiences – From interactive food stations, signature cocktails, cozy lounge areas, and live entertainment, weddings are becoming less about tradition and more about creating unforgettable moments. Things such as late-night snacks, a photo booth, or a sparkler send-off these elements bring a fun, and lasting impression that guests will talk about long after the celebration ends.

Whether you incorporate one or all the trends in your big day, The Gardens is the perfect venue to let your imagination go! You can enjoy unlimited flexibility to create a day just the way you want it. Your wedding should reflect who you are as a couple. You are in control of designing an event that is an extension of the values and beliefs found in your relationship. After all it’s your day! Email us at info@thegardensofcastlerock.com to start creating your perfect formal, woodsy, glam tones, sprinkled day with a naked cake wedding today!

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October162017NOCOMMENTS

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Wedding Decor, Wedding Planning

Six Keys to Avoiding Wedding Day Color Mistakes

Six Keys to Avoiding Wedding Day Color Mistakes

It’s not the biggest decision you’ll make in wedding planning, you’ve already said yes… but, picking colors is near the top!

 

Ribbons of multiple colors with similar hues hung for the ceremony backdrop make the couples neutral colors stand out beautifully.

Deciding on a color palette is a pivotal step which will influence all aspects of your wedding. You’ll be eating, breathing, living these colors for the months of wedding planning, and for the years afterwards as you enjoy your wedding photos.

How can you make color decisions confidently, so your choices stand the test of the time, please the eye (yours and most of your guests, anyway), and contribute to a cohesive reflection of your personal aesthetic?

We’ve listed a few common mistakes, and their remedies. As you consider your color choices, let these tips guide you.

Mistake: Not communicating colors accurately

Remedy: Collect and share swatches. One person’s lilac is another person’s lavender; one person’s fuchsia is another person’s magenta. Eliminate the ambiguity by collecting swatches from magazines and paint stores. Viewing palettes for home decor as well as weddings can help you nail down your shades, and identifying the Pantone color will be helpful for graphic artists, and even some cake decorators.

Mistake: Overlooking the venue colors

Especially for outdoor wedding venues the color of the venue play a big role in choosing your colors.

Remedy: Choose a priority. While most venues generally make an effort to be neutral, they’ll still have a palette which will inform the look of your wedding. If you’re absolutely committed to a color selection, make sure you choose a venue where that selection will shine. Alternately, if you’ve found a venue you love, let its palette inform your own. Perhaps your heart was set on a deep, true purple but the venue is dominated by dark woods and dark colors. Maybe you need to shift to a dusty lilac. Or you may have found a historic ballroom with pastel yellow walls: your vivid orange might need to shift to coral.

 

 

Mistake: Overdoing it with too many colors

Simple and clean will make the subtlest color pop.

Remedy: Narrow it down. A simple palette is more striking. You can choose a single color for a bold statement, like pure white or lush lilac. More likely, you’ll want two, three or even four colors. Choose one as the predominant color, and the others will serve as accents. By sticking to your selection, you’ll get a cohesive, unified look. If that feels a little too rigid or formal, you can vary shades of the same color for more depth and variety.

Mistake: Embracing a two-color limit

Remedy: Loosen up! The strict two-color palette used to be de rigueur, and like many rules, there’s a time to break it. When colors really work together, you can embrace up to five of them with success. How to make a bigger palette work? Include two neutrals to keep it grounded, like brown and cream or gray and white. Embracing a bigger palette helps pull off a more thematic expression, echoing an English country garden or a winter ice palace.

Mistake: Competing colors

The flowers. Let your use of color dictate what you want your guests to notice.

Remedy: Choose one to dominate. When you choose your colors, select one to seize the stage. If your focal color is bright, the secondary colors should be muted. If your focal color is muted, you can have one, possibly two, bright supporting colors. Contrast in tone is essential to give the eye a chance to rest, and to ensure your decor is pleasing, not distracting.

Mistake: Neglecting texture

Remedy: Capitalize on texture similarities or differences. First, you can mix textures in a single hue for drama and depth. A thoughtful blend of shiny, matte, and woven-in texture like stripes or jacquard can be understated yet beautiful. You can also consider stripes or florals to express your color theme without being overwhelming. Make sure the textures make sense together: typically you wouldn’t combine burlap with satin, or seersucker with metallic, because they speak to different aesthetic themes.

To further simplify your planning process, consider working with an experienced venue like The Gardens of Castle Rock that understands how wedding color palettes interact with natural landscapes based off season, and decor trends. By aligning your color choices with your venue and the time of year, you’ll create a visually appealing wedding that photographs beautifully and feels intentional from ceremony to reception.

Don’t under estimate the colors of the venue, especially outdoor/garden venues.  Spring, summer, winter or fall… the season will impact the look and feel of any color you choose. The Gardens of Castle Rock helps with colors by capturing thousands of images and sharing them organized by the month of the year.  The greens of spring are much different than the greens of summer.  Contact an event coordinator as The Gardens to begin planning the most beautiful wedding ever… yours!!  Email us at info@thegardensofcastlerock.com or call us at 651-264-9510

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September252017NOCOMMENTS

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The Gardens, Wedding Planning

What an experience! ~ Millennial Wedding Trends

Millennial Wedding Trends

What an experience… Share, wear and care! Cool trends

 

Hanging mason jars are the perfect touch to the Lath House rustic wedding ceremony site. The Gardens of Castle Rock

Millennials: they’re trend setters, and they’re in the prime marrying age, ranging from 18- to 34. What are they favoring this year in wedding trends?

A wedding and relationship survey of 800 Millennials by youth marketing and research company Ypulse revealed popular trends. Here are our favorite nine items out of their top 20.

Hashtags

Hashtags have completely taken the place of the disposable-camera-on-every-table trend of the last century. Brides and grooms select a hashtag and share it at the wedding–on signs, temporary tattoos, napkins, favors and backdrops. Guests tag their best pix so everyone can share and enjoy them. Struggling to choose your hashtag? Enter your info in an online generator which will propose ideas, then check your favorites to make sure they’re not over-used. First and last names, wedding venues, puns, and dates are all fair game.

Social Media

Social media is deeply integrated into the wedding world, from Pinterest for decor ideas to Facebook Live to stream the ceremony for the absent. Some couples hire social media consultants/content creators to post to their personal Instagram or Tik Tok accounts for the run-up and for the big day. The content creator may take charge of posting on the big day, so it’s easier for guests to let go of their phones for a few hours.

Content creators can act as a more budget friendly option to a professional videographer. Content creators capture all the in-between moments while some incorporate current social media trends to make it fun and engaging. They will even put together small video clips or quickly edit photos from your big day, so you’re able to share on your personal social media pages while you wait for your professional photos to be delivered from your photographer.

Mason Jars

Mason jars – they’re here to stay! They’re eminently versatile, and will enjoy a lifetime of practical re-use after the wedding. Hanging or on tables, for flowers or candles, they make great decor. They also serve up cocktails, individual pies or desserts, composed appetizers and party favors.

Colorful Bridal Gowns

Colorful bridal gowns reflect the modern trend to let personal style trump tradition. While white is still hugely popular, beautiful wedding dresses in ombre gradations, floral prints, jewel tones, and even rainbows are gliding down the aisle.

Absolutely fun wedding dress… love the color! The Gardens of Castle Rock

Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses

Mismatched bridesmaid dresses allow the diverse personalities and styles of the wedding party to shine. The flexibility and versatility makes each bridesmaid look and feel her best. Tips: for a unified appearance, either style, shade, or fabric should be the same. An ombre effect among dresses is attractive. Also, make sure the mood of the dresses reflects the venue–what looks great in a barn might bomb in a ballroom.

Wedding Cake Alternatives

Wedding cake alternatives are bigger every year. While cupcakes were the first foray into alternatives, the sky is now the limit. Pies, mini-pies, sundae bars, macaroons, eclair assortments, mini cakes, mini bundt cakes, cheesecakes, mini tart and pastry assortments, ice cream cakes, and donuts are all options. There’s also the spectacular  croquembouche, a stunning tower of cream puffs encased in ribbons of hard caramel in the French tradition.

Honeymoon Registries

Honeymoon registries are a great alternative to gift registries, especially for older couples who’ve established complete households already. Online registries enable guests to easily give gift cards for airlines or hotels. Most sites allow you to specify gifts such as sightseeing tours or breakfast in bed.

Donations to Charity

Donations to charity are a popular way to harness that lovin’ feeling for good. Some couples are eschewing favors and making a charitable donation instead; others are inviting guests to donate to a favorite charity in lieu of giving a gift.

Bridesmen and Groomsladies

Groomsladies and Bridesmen reflect the diverse meaningful relationships treasured by the bride and groom. BFFs can be any gender, so more and more weddings are featuring attendants of both genders on both sides of the aisle.

The VW bus is home to The Blue Goose Photo Booth.  The Gardens of Castle Rock

Photo Booths

Photo booths are huge crowd-pleasers. While it’s simplest to hire a professional, a DIY photo booth is easy: set up a background with good lighting, gather fun and festive props, and let guests take their own pictures. You can even provide a Polaroid-style camera or a photo printer to make instant souvenirs.

No matter what your idea is for the perfect wedding The Gardens is here to let your personality guide your wedding day… We’ll assist in facilitating all the little and big detail that will make your wedding your wedding. DM us now to get started!

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