Wedding Favorites

Wedding Planning Made Easy: Checklist for Your Special Day

Victoria Riddler • December 30, 2024

Planning a wedding is an exciting time of everyone’s life. Finding that special someone to spend the rest of your life with is a beautiful feeling. However, preparing for your special day as a soon-to-be bride can be difficult unless you’ve got a wedding planning checklist in place.

Not only can a wedding planning checklist make wedding planning easier by ensuring you don’t miss out on any important details, but it can also streamline the steps and plan of action for each task of the checklist. To help you prepare, here’s a comprehensive wedding planning checklist for soon-to-be brides.

Wedding Planning Checklist For Soon-To-Be Brides

Stage 1: Initial Essentials

Budget

One of the most important aspects of planning a wedding involves budgeting for the big day as a newly engaged bride. By creating a comprehensive budget that takes into account all the important aspects of your wedding day and personal preferences, you can start planning your dream wedding. Committing to a budget is important because it will be a guide to help you determine what to prioritize when organizing all wedding related activities.

Venue

The venue that you choose for your wedding can make or break your day. Deciding on aspects like the place of your wedding, theme, and choice of indoor and outdoor wedding venue can be a crucial decision to make. Keeping it in your wedding planning checklist can help you find the right venue for your wedding party and book it in advance. Many popular wedding venues can be booked as far as one or two years out. If your favorite venue has a long wait period, this will be something to take into consideration for your planning timeline.

Guest List

The next step on your wedding checklist is creating a guest list for your big day. Defining your guest list helps with decisions like invitations, seating, and the number of wedding favors. Starting with the guest list helps inform decisions about budget, location, catering, vendors, and more. A large guest list will inherently be more expensive. If you prefer a DIY wedding, consider a smaller guest list and plan your décor timeline in advance. If your guest list is small, a large, glamorous venue may not be necessary.

Bridal Party

Choosing your bridal party is a heartfelt milestone in the wedding planning process. These are the people who will stand by your side, offering support and love during this incredible journey. Consider selecting friends and family members who share your joy and excitement, and don’t forget to plan how you’ll ask them to be part of your special day. Personalized gifts or heartfelt notes can make this moment even more memorable!

Stage 2: Critical Wedding Preparations

Invitations

The next stage of the wedding planning process is to create and send out invitations to your guests. As a soon-to-be bride, you will have to start working on your wedding invitations as soon as possible. You can either create your own invitations or have a professional wedding invitation designer do it for you. Either way, planning ahead can help you get done with it fast.

Licenses and Permits

The next crucial step is to obtain all important licenses and permits for your wedding party. Apply for permits as soon as you book your venue to avoid last-minute issues. Certain permits may even be more important if you plan to host a wedding in your backyard.

Booking The Vendors

Another critical factor to be considered as a soon-to-be-bride is booking essential services like catering, décor, and wedding photographers ahead of time. You may also want to vet vendors, especially photographers, so picking your vendors early can make a big difference to your wedding day.

Wedding Favors

Last but not least, the choice of wedding favors for your guests and bridal party must also be added to your wedding planning checklist. Deciding what to give to your loved ones for being a part of your most important day is a sweet way to thank them, and choosing thoughtful wedding favors is a great way to do so.

Stage 3: Bridal Planning for Milestone Celebrations

Engagement Party

The engagement party is the first major milestone to celebrate your upcoming wedding. It’s a chance to gather friends and family, toast to your love story, and build excitement for the journey ahead. Sometimes, the groom will loop in the engagement with a surprise engagement party with friends and family after. If this isn’t you, and you’re still planning your announcement, think about choosing a meaningful venue—whether it’s a cozy backyard, a chic restaurant, or a picturesque park—that sets the tone for your wedding theme. Incorporate elements like personalized decorations, a curated playlist, and a signature cocktail that reflects your style as a couple. Remember, this is the perfect time to share your joy with loved ones and make memories to cherish forever.

Bridesmaid Proposal Party

The bridesmaid proposal party is a special opportunity to ask your closest friends and family to stand by your side on your wedding day. This gathering is all about heartfelt moments and meaningful gestures that celebrate your bond with each bridesmaid. Plan an intimate setting, whether it’s a cozy dinner, a chic brunch, or a fun at-home gathering, and surprise them with personalized proposal boxes or thoughtful gifts. Include a touch of creativity, like handwritten notes, custom keepsakes, or a mini photo slideshow of your memories together. This milestone is your chance to express gratitude for their support and make them feel truly cherished as part of your wedding journey.

Bridal Shower

The bridal shower is a heartfelt occasion to celebrate the bride and shower her with love and good wishes. This event is often more intimate, featuring close friends and family, delicious food, and thoughtful gifts. Planning a themed bridal shower, like a garden tea party or boho brunch, can add a personal touch. Include engaging activities, such as a DIY flower-arranging station or memory-sharing game, to create a warm and lively atmosphere. The key is to make the bride feel celebrated and supported as she embarks on her exciting new chapter.

Bachelorette Party

The bachelorette party is all about fun, friendship, and creating unforgettable memories before the big day. Whether you opt for a weekend getaway, a lively night out, or a relaxing spa retreat, tailor the experience to the bride’s personality and preferences. Consider incorporating unique elements like matching outfits, personalized party favors, or a curated itinerary that highlights her favorite activities. This milestone is more than just a celebration—it’s a way for the bridal party to bond and honor the bride’s journey to the altar with laughter, love, and a touch of adventure.

Stage 4: FINAL ACT WEDDING ARRANGEMENTS

Getting Ready in the Bridal Suite

Preparing for your wedding day in the bridal suite is a magical experience filled with excitement and anticipation. Ensure your suite is equipped with essentials like mirrors, comfortable seating, robes and gifts for your girls, and plenty of natural light for flawless makeup application. Stock the space with refreshments, your wedding day emergency kit, and sentimental touches to set a calming yet joyful mood. Invite your bridal party to join you for a morning of bonding, laughter, and making memories as you get ready for the biggest moment of your life.

Wedding Attire

Final fittings for your wedding attire a few days before the big day is the most important part of your wedding planning checklist. This must be completed in time so that any changes can be made swiftly. Now, you can shine like a diamond on the most important day of your life.

Catering & Decor

Just before the wedding day approaches, you will need to finalize your catering situation. Whether you hire an external caterer or pick the catering services offered by your venue, you will need to finalize your choice of food and drinks. Maybe, you want more seafood options like scrumptious grilled lobster tail in your wedding, or you want a vegan-friendly menu. Deciding on all of these aspects and finalizing them a few days before the wedding can make a big difference. Check final décor and select decorations that complement your wedding theme as part of your planning checklist.

Planning a wedding from scratch is no easy task. However, it is possible to make the time-consuming process more streamlined by preparing a wedding planning checklist as a soon-to-be bride. By dividing the task into smaller fragments and getting through them one by one, you can make your wedding planning process fruitful and enjoy your special day to the fullest.

Don’t forget to share your wedding journey with us! Tag @weddingfavorites on Instagram or use the hashtag #WEDFAVLOOK to show off your special moments. We’d love to celebrate with you!

How to Host the Perfect Fall Engagement Party with Rustic Elegance

Victoria Riddler • December 16, 2024

Engagement season is the most magical during fall and winter, with its crisp air, vibrant foliage, and cozy atmosphere and sparkling lights making it the perfect backdrop for engagement celebrations. As couples embark on their journey toward tying the knot, an outdoor engagement party is ideal for setting the stage for the upcoming wedding. Combining rustic charm and elegant details in a garden setting can create an unforgettable event that speaks to personal style and seasonal beauty.

Here’s how to blend rustic charm and sophistication to create a memorable gathering for you and your family.

Choosing the Right Venue: A Garden as the Perfect Setting

First, the venue is one of the most important aspects of any engagement party. A garden is a beautiful option, offering a natural canvas that can easily be transformed to reflect rustic charm and elegance.

Whether the garden is at a private home, public space, or dedicated event location, the natural surroundings of trees, plants, and flowers will effortlessly enhance the autumnal vibe.

For couples in Southern California, consider a wedding venue in Irvine or Burbank. These cities boast many scenic outdoor locations with well-maintained gardens perfectly blending nature and convenience. When searching for the right garden venue, make sure it has plenty of open space for both seating and mingling areas. Don’t forget lighting options for when the sun sets early during the fall months.

Beautiful semi-indoor greenhouse style with rustic wood backdrops and off white accents. Perfect for engagement ceremonies or weddings.

Creating a Warm Atmosphere with Lighting

Lighting is a powerful tool in setting the tone for your engagement party, especially as the days grow shorter in autumn and winter. Consider incorporating a mix of different lighting types to combine rustic charm and elegance.

String Lights

Draping string lights across trees, along fences, or over seating areas adds a whimsical touch to the garden. This soft, warm glow enhances the romantic vibe and highlights the outdoor space’s rustic beauty.

Candles and Lanterns

Place candles in vintage-style lanterns or use large pillar candles in glass holders along pathways or on tabletops for a more elegant, intimate feel. The flickering candlelight adds sophistication while maintaining the cozy warmth of the season.

Fairy Lights in Trees

If the venue has large trees, stringing fairy lights through the branches can create a magical, ethereal atmosphere. The subtle twinkle of the lights contrasts beautifully with the rustic natural elements, adding just the right amount of elegance.

Personalized Favors for Lasting Memories

An engagement party or wedding event isn’t complete without a thoughtful token of appreciation for guests. Personalized wedding favors are a thoughtful way to thank friends and family for celebrating your special moment and allow them to leave with a meaningful keepsake. Select something custom made or personalized just for them.

When choosing engagement favors, think about items that reflect the fall or winter season and the rustic-elegant vibe of the event. Here are some favor ideas that would be perfect for a cozy fall garden party.

Mini Succulents or Potted Herbs

These eco-friendly wedding favors are not only practical but also beautiful. Mini potted succulents or herbs, adorned with custom tags featuring the couple’s names and engagement date, offer guests a living reminder of the special occasion. It’s something they can care for long after the event has ended. It also serves as a gentle reminder, sparking a memory filled with joy.

Customized Candles

A candle favor can double as décor during the event. Choose fall-inspired scents like pumpkin spice, vanilla, or cedarwood, and package them in rustic jars with custom labels for a personalized touch.

Personalized Hand Selected Gift Boxes

Delight her with a personalized, hand-selected gift box featuring custom tumblers, thank-you cards, and luxurious bath bombs—all topped with her name! These beautifully curated boxes combine elegance and thoughtfulness, making them the perfect way to show your appreciation. Packaged to impress, each gift is tailored to leave a lasting impression.

Seasonal Dried Flower Favors

When getting married, you want to lock in your bridal party as soon as possible. Utilize the engagement party to also double as your chance to as your BFFs to be your bridesmaids. Ask in style with adorable dried flower favors as a thank-you gift! These charming keepsakes add a personal, heartfelt touch, making your bridesmaid proposal extra special. Perfect for celebrating your bond, these unique favors are a beautiful way to show your appreciation.

Elegant Touches to Elevate the Engagement

While rustic charm sets the tone, adding subtle elements of elegance will make the celebration feel special and sophisticated. Elegant details can be incorporated into various aspects of the engagement party, from the décor to the menu.

Chic Floral Arrangements

Upgrade the traditional rustic wildflower look with sophisticated dried flowers like baby’s breath, pampas grass, and bunny tails in a soft off white color. Gold or copper vases and accents can further enhance the luxurious feel blending in modern boho florals with western rustic farmhouse vibes.

Crystal Glassware and Fine China

Incorporating elegant crystal glassware or heirloom-quality china into the place settings instantly raises the event’s formality. This unexpected blend of rustic tables with high-end tableware creates a beautiful, thoughtful, and personalized contrast.

Elegant Linens and Soft Furnishings

For outdoor garden parties, soft furnishings such as cozy blankets, velvet cushions, and plush throws can serve both functional and decorative purposes. In cooler fall weather, these added comforts keep guests warm while contributing to the overall luxe feel.

Inviting Nature In: The Role of Rustic Décor

Rustic décor is an essential component of any fall garden engagement party. The key to achieving this look is incorporating natural materials, vintage pieces, and earthy tones that blend seamlessly with the surroundings. The texture and color of these items should be the biggest consideration for this part of your planning. Here are some ideas for infusing rustic charm into your engagement party.

Wooden Tables and Chairs

Choose long wooden tables and mismatched chairs for a rustic dining area. The wood’s natural grain pairs perfectly with the fall landscape, creating a grounded and welcoming environment.

Burlap and Lace Table Runners

Layer your tables with burlap runners for a rustic foundation, then add lace overlays or soft linen napkins for contrast. This mix of textures introduces an elegant touch to the natural simplicity of burlap.

Mason Jar Centerpieces

Fill mason jars with seasonal blooms, such as mums, or wildflowers, and add a sprig of eucalyptus or wheat for a rustic, fall-inspired centerpiece. Pairing these jars with wood slices or metallic accents can bring a balance of elegance and countryside charm.

Consider the Season: Embrace the Fall Weather

A fall garden engagement party presents challenges due to unpredictable weather, so planning ahead is essential. Evenings can get chilly, and rain is possible in cooler months, but these factors are easily manageable.

Cozy Blankets for Guests

Providing personalized blankets for guests to wrap themselves in as the temperature cools is practical and welcoming. You can even display the blankets in rustic wooden crates or on a ladder for an extra touch of décor.

Tented Areas for Rain Protection

When hosting an outdoors event, consider renting a clear tent or canopy to cover the dining area. A tent protects from any unexpected weather while allowing guests to enjoy the garden views and autumn foliage.

Fire Pits or Heaters

If the night turns chilly, having a fire pit or heater will keep guests comfortable while adding a cozy, intimate vibe. Gathering around a fire encourages conversation and connection, making it an excellent addition to any engagement party.

Capture the Memories: Décor that Doubles as Photo Opportunities

A fall garden engagement party offers beautiful photo backdrops, enhancing the experience and creating picture-perfect moments for guests. Consider these ideas.

Vintage Furniture for Photo Ops

Create a stylish photo area with vintage furniture, such as an antique couch or rustic wooden bench, framed by the garden’s natural beauty. Adding seasonal arrangements or a floral arch creates a stunning photo focal point.

Polaroid Stations or Photo Booths

Set up a Polaroid station or a rustic-themed photo booth where guests can snap instant photos to take home or leave behind in a guest book. Provide a selection of props, such as fall leaves, pumpkins, or cozy scarves, to add to the fun.

A cozy fall garden engagement party offers the perfect opportunity to blend rustic charm and elegance in a beautiful, natural setting. By carefully selecting your venue, décor, and favors, you can create an unforgettable celebration that captures the warmth and beauty of autumn.

With a bit of creativity and attention to detail, your fall garden engagement party will leave a lasting impression on all who attend. If you used any of these tips, make sure to tag us @weddingfavorites!

Top 10 Useful & Personalized Best Bridesmaid Gifts Ideas For You

Melina Simkins • July 23, 2024

Planning a wedding and selecting useful bridesmaid gifts is a monumental task, filled with countless decisions that contribute to making your special day as perfect as possible. One of the key aspects of wedding planning is showing appreciation to your bridesmaids, the wonderful women who support you through every step of the journey. Finding useful bridesmaid gifts that are thoughtful and personal can be challenging. Enter us, your personal assistant and guide to help explore why these 10 options make excellent bridesmaid gifts ideas and how they can add a touch of sparkle to your big day.

The Bridesmaid Gift Dilemma

Bridesmaids are more than just a part of your wedding party; they are your closest friends and family members who have been there for you through thick and thin (we hope). Naturally, you want to give them something that expresses your gratitude and appreciation. However, choosing the best thank you gifts for bridesmaids involves careful consideration:

Thoughtfulness: The gift should show that you’ve put thought into it and acknowledged their tastes and preferences
Usefulness: A practical gift that can be used regularly is often more appreciated than one that will sit on a shelf collecting dust.
Reusability: Gifts with multiple use application are increasingly popular and show that you care about gifting something that also benefits your loved one.
Personalization: Adding a personal touch, like her name, makes the gift more special and memorable.
Expressing Gratitude: Ultimately, the goal is to showcase that you really appreciate and genuinely care about your friends or family, so including a thank you note is essential to convey your heartfelt thanks.

With that in mind, you’ll be able to select bridesmaid gifts that aren’t cheesy. Instead, you’ll “wow” your friends into feeling like these were the best bridesmaids gifts ever received. Here are ten custom and useful bridesmaid gifts ideas that will not only show your gratitude but also ensure your bridesmaids feel cherished and appreciated.

1.) Mini Holographic Clear Bridesmaid Gift Bag

This trendy and eye-catching iridescent, shimmery bag can hold a variety of smaller gifts, making it perfect as a mini bridesmaid proposal tote to be stuffed with other favorite goodies inside. Both durable and beautiful, the iridescent finish on thick PVC reflects incredible multicolored pastels that make this gift reliable and practical.

Three iridescent, holographic bags stand in the middle of the image stuffed with heart sunglasses and other bridesmaid gifts reflecting pink, purple, and orange colors on PVC material with durable white faux leather handles & the name "kylie", "sarah", and "nicole" across the front in white. These bags make for a very useful bridesmaid gifts.

Six 18 oz. tumblers in white, blush pink, and dusty rose colors with reflective, iridescent text that says nicole, sarah, and monogrammed letter "k".

2.) Retro Sparkle Tumbler with Straw

These tumblers are designed with double walled matte acrylic making them ideal for coffee, tea, or any favorite beverage that your best friends, bridesmaids, or coworkers will love. Featuring an inner seal ring, these cups are spill proof and minimizes accidental leakage making them an excellent on-the-go cup that will fit in any cup holder!

3.) Personalized Satin Lace Robes

A personalized satin lace robe is a luxurious gift that your bridesmaids can use long after the wedding day. These robes are perfect for getting ready on the big day and can be worn as elegant loungewear. (These are also excellent for resting after a relaxing hot shower.) Choose colors that match your wedding theme for a coordinated look!

Three ladies stand with their back facing the viewer interlocking arms wearing delicate satin lace bridesmaid robes that have their names in dainty cursive on the back.

Five bridesmaids are sitting on the beach in the sand side by side with their back facing the viewer showing off wide brimmed sunhats that feature their names in black dainty cursive.

4.) Personalized Beach Hat

For a touch of summer elegance, a personalized beach hat is a fantastic choice. These hats are perfect for protecting against the sun while looking chic & stylish. Add phrases like “Bridesmaid Squad” or “Sunshine Babe” across the top as a fun addition. This fan favorite makes an awesome gift for beach days, vacations, or just enjoying sunny weather, providing both style and functionality.

5.) Personalized Jewelry Box

Your bridesmaids probably live busy lives always on the go. (Don’t we all these days?) Compact and easy to carry, this zippered, customized jewelry box provides secure storage for your valuable gems, especially when traveling internationally. (I personally use one everyday myself!)

Three white, square faux leather jewelry boxes are in the center of the frame, one open to show the soft colored interior. The other two are closed showing off small dainty black cursive text of her name in the lower right corner making this a useful bridesmaid gifts.

Picture is of three girls are standing showing their feet and calves from the knees down standing in soft fluffy white slippers with their name in black cursive text. The best personalized and luxury gifts for bridesmaids you could offer.

6.) Personalized Slippers

These cozy slippers are the perfect blend of fluff, comfort, and cuteness making them a wonderful option to keep your bridesmaids feet warm and happy. Personalize them with her name and she can wear them before, during and after the wedding season is over.

7.) Personalized Wristlet Wallet

Each wallet has a key ring, gold lobster clamp, fringe detail, and wristlet bangle making it the most portable and lightweight minimalist travel wallet to carry on-the-go. Ideal for holding ID cards, credit cards, and cash while shopping with the BFFs during your bachelorette or as a low profile wallet for a night on the town.

Three small wallets that are black, pink, and white are laying facing up showcasing her name in black or white cursive text. Wristlet wallets have a bulk beaded wrist bracelet.

Three clear glass can style coffee cups are laying on the ground with eco-friendly sealed bamboo lids and straw featuring your bridesmaid names in white cursive text.

8.) Personalized Iced Coffee Glass

For bridesmaids and family who love their iced coffee, a personalized iced coffee glass is a thoughtful and practical gift. These glasses are perfect for enjoying a refreshing iced coffee at home or on the go. Customize each glass with her name and see her reuse her new drinkware addition again and again.

9.) Heart Sunglasses

Heart sunglasses are a super fun and fashionable way to celebrate bridal showers or bachelorette parties, especially if you’re planning a themed event. These UV400 acrylic frames dramatically protect your eyes from the suns rays while adding a bold vibe to your fit. (I left a pair of these in my car – it’s been well over a year and I still love them to this day.)

Three heart shaped sunglasses in white, pink, and black are resting on a baby pink background.

Three plush velvet cosmetic bags in mauve, white, and black laying on a light beige background featuring shimmery gold cursive text in her name.

10.) Personalized Velvet Cosmetic Bag

These cosmetic bags are glamorous, beautiful, and functional, providing a stylish way to organize beauty products. Made of plush velvet and color options in mauve, natural, and black, you can pick just the right one that fits her style.

Choosing the perfect bridesmaid gifts is no easy feat—like trying to find a needle in a haystack or the TV remote after a Game of Thrones marathon. When selecting bridesmaid gifts, remember to consider the individual tastes and preferences of your bridesmaids. Personalization adds that extra sprinkle of magic, making each gift as unique as a Taylor Swift surprise album drop. By choosing practical and stylish items, you can ensure your bridesmaids will use and enjoy their gifts long after the wedding day. These gifts will show your appreciation and ensure your bridesmaids feel cherished and special.

Your bridesmaids have been your Avengers, assembling to support you throughout your wedding journey, offering love and assistance. Show them how much they mean to you with these thoughtful and personalized gifts that reflect your gratitude and appreciation. So go ahead, be the Monica to your Rachel, and nail those bridesmaid gifts with style and flair! (Cue the applause!)

If your bridesmaids loved her gifts, make sure to tag us @weddingfavorites!

How to Create the Perfect Disco Cowgirl Bachelorette Look

Melina Simkins • April 17, 2024

Bachelorette Party Themes that Match the Look: Nash Bash, Space/Disco Cowgirl, Wild Wild West, Last Rodeo

Are you ready to lasso up some fun and dance the night away with your cowgirl boots on? If you’ve been tasked with planning a bachelorette party that’s equal parts country flair and disco glam, then saddle up, partner, because we’ve got the ultimate guide for you!

Whether you’re a bride, bridesmaid, or maid of honor, let’s make sure the bachelorette party is unforgettable. And what better way to do that than with a one-of-a-kind Disco Cowgirl extravaganza elegantly put together by yours truly. So grab your sequins and your cowboy hats, and let’s get this bachelorette party started!

Bride dressed in white fringe jacket, white cowboy hat, and blue jeans, is raising her arms up in excitement while standing in front of a wall painted with a colorful candy hearts mural.

Sequins and Sass: The Recipe for
Disco Cowgirl Fashion

A Disco Cowgirl bachelorette outfit is all about combining the glitz and glamour of disco with the rugged charm of the Wild West. Take a look at some of your favorite western sci-fi films for vintage western inspiration such as Cowboy & Aliens or Back to the Future Part III for example. Think Clint Eastwood – cowboy boots, hat, triangle scarf, handkerchief… then add rhinestones, glitter, and everything SPARKLE.

When it comes to crafting the perfect Disco Cowgirl look, rhinestones are your best friend. Whether adorning your cowboy hat, embellishing your boots, or bedazzling your denim, rhinestones or reflective silver embellishments is a callback to the glittering disco ball. And let’s not forget about fringe! A fringe jacket or skirt adds movement and drama to your ensemble, giving you that unmistakable cowgirl flair. It ties together your southern fashion cuts with the vibe of retro 70’s cabaret – well, I declare it’s giving futuristic-nightclub-attendee that could live inside Bladerunner.

Back of a Bride wearing a short white fringe jacket with sparkle letters spelling "Bride".

Help your friends visualize their inner disco-diva-meets-rodeo-queen by creating an aesthetic guide for them. We love Pinterest or Canva for creating sharable mood boards. I recon this Pinterest disco cowgirl bachelorette mood board encompasses the vision and is a great place to start building your outfit ideas. Personally, I would pair items together from this Desert Cactus Collection with a white, Personalized Fringe Jean Jacket and Jeweled Fedora Hat to complete the southern belle meets discothèque look. You’ll be prettier than a peach!

Bride wearing white and light colors holding a brown jeweled fedora hat that would work for a disco cowgirl fashion aesthetic.

Bride wearing white fringe jacket that showcases her new last name standing in the desert with her husband. Her outfit is for reader inspiration for creating a disco cowgirl outfit.

Embracing the Theme: Accessories and Gift Bags

Accessories are important for setting the mood, consider gifting your friends personalized, stylish burlap tote bags with disco ball and desert cactus western-style motifs? These chic and practical tote bags are perfect for carrying all their essentials in true cowgirl fashion. They’re durable, reusable, and they’ll love the added touch of sparkle and glamour, making them the perfect accessory for any disco cowgirl on the go. You can read more on how we created a simple DIY for disco cowgirl bachelorette gift bags that will complete the party here.

Burlap Tote bags featuring a white catcus vinyl label and custom personalized text styled in a disco cowgirl theme

Super cute white tote bag surrounded by desert themed accessories like a tumblr, cosmetic bag, and hand mirror that would be a great accessory for a disco cowgirl party theme.

As the disco ball spins and the cowgirl boots stomp, remember that it’s not just about the outfits and accessories—it’s about the memories you’ll create together. So, as you gather your fellow cowgirls for your bachelorette party, cherish every moment, every laugh, and every twirl on the dance floor. After all, the true magic of a bachelorette party lies in the bonds of friendship and the joy of celebrating love.

So, whether you’re sipping cocktails under the neon lights or two-stepping to your favorite tunes in a white cowboy hat and glittery fringe jacket, take a moment to soak it all in. As the night comes to a close and you bid farewell to the glittering lights of the disco ball, know that the memories you’ve created will last a lifetime (especially because you were dressed like a million bucks). If you decide to try out any of the items suggested during your bachelorette party or trip, make sure to tag us @weddingfavorites.

Yeehaw and disco on, cowgirls!

In dark grey cursive font the name is spelled " Melina ". Right below in bold block font the text says " guest blogger ".

How To Put Together A Bridesmaid Proposal Box

Elena Rodarte • February 27, 2024

So, you’ve found the one and now you’re ready to assemble your dream team of bridesmaids to stand by your side on the big day. *Cue the confetti and pop the bubbly!* 🥳🍾 Now it’s time to create the perfect bridesmaid proposal box that’ll have your besties saying, “I do” to being in your bridal squad! We make curating your dream proposal box simple and personal to you and your girls. Here’s your step-by-step guide on how to ask “Will you be my bridesmaid?” in style!

Step 1: Choose a Theme

First things first, let’s set the mood for your bridesmaid proposal. Think of a theme that resonates with your personality and wedding vision. Whether it’s boho chic or classic elegance, let your theme set the tone for your bridesmaid proposal boxes. If you’re planning to have a destination wedding, you can include gifts that match the location. (We have an entire collection of Tropical Gifts.) Have a color scheme in mind? Get matching gifts and decorative elements to make the box look cohesive and thoughtful. (Explore our Blush Gifts Collection.) Having a theme or broad concept for your box will make it easier to put it all together.

Browse our collection of Gift Themes to get some inspo for your boxes!

Step 2: Select Your Bridesmaid Proposal Box

Customization is key when it comes to bridesmaid proposal gifts. You want to make sure it shows that you put thought and effort into each gift. Add a personal touch by getting a custom gift box for each of your girls! Browse our collection of Proposal Gift Boxes to get a box that matches your style. We have unique boxes that will wow your future bridesmaids before they even open them. From Round Boxes to Natural Wood Keepsakes, each box is crafted with love and is truly one of a kind.

Here are a few of our favorite boxes:

Looking for something a little more untraditional? Use Custom Tote Bags to package your bridesmaid proposal gifts instead of a box.

Step 3: Fill it with Bridal Party Essentials

No proposal box is complete without a few gifts to make it wow. Get your girls excited for the wedding by including essential items they can use on the big day. Gift them matching robes & slippers that they can wear while getting ready. Or surprise them with fun shirts and glasses to wear during the bachelorette party. You can also gift them items that are a little more practical. We have a variety of Bridesmaid Gifts that are useful for every day like our makeup bags, compacts, tumblers, and so much more! Remember, it’s the thoughtfulness behind each gift that will truly make it special.

Get inspired by some of our best sellers:

Step 4: Finish it with Love

Lastly, and more importantly, shower each of your girls with love and gratitude for being by your side. Include a heartfelt note or card expressing how much their friendship means to you. Let them know how excited you are to have them by your side on your wedding day. Include a thoughtful message about your relationship that is sincere and meaningful. Etsy has some really cute proposal card templates that are easy to customize. You can also include a photo of the two of you or a small memento that represents a memory you share. These little touches will make your bridesmaid feel special and cherished.

And there you have it – your guide to putting together the perfect bridesmaid proposal box. Get creative, have fun with it, and most importantly, shower your squad with love and gratitude. No matter what you put inside, your bridesmaid proposal gift should symbolize the love you have for each of your girls. If you need any help just let us know! We have everything you need to make the perfect proposal box, but it’s your thoughtfulness that will make it memorable. ❤️

Happy proposing!

2024 Wedding Trend Predictions

Elena Rodarte • January 04, 2024

With the new year, comes new trends and we can’t wait to see what wedding trends emerge this year. Picture this: content creators turning “I Do” into Insta-gold, private ceremonies for a more intimate affair, and a groovy trip back to the 70s. Join us as we spill the tea on what we think more couples will do for their weddings in 2024. Ready for the deets on these wedding trend predictions? Let’s dive in!

Wedding Content Creators

The first wedding trend, one that was taking everyone by storm in 2023, is wedding content creators. We saw social media content creators niche down and offer their services to brides on their wedding day. With all the excitement and eagerness of getting married, you might not remember to film that video clip for a TikTok trend that you wanted to do. Having a personal content creator on your wedding day solves that pain point. They capture all the fun and candid moments throughout your big day so you can stay off your phone and stay present in the moment. You don’t have to be an influencer to want to share your wedding moments on IG or TikTok. Hiring a wedding content creator is a different way to capture candid, unforgettable moments on your big day.

(If you’re on a tight budget and can’t afford another vendor, you could ask that tech-savvy friend of yours to be in charge. Perhaps you have a junior bridesmaid who knows all the TikTok trends and dances.)

70s-Inspired Aesthetics

Get ready to throw it back to the days of disco balls and flower power! According to Pinterest Predicts, the 70s are making a comeback in bridal aesthetics. Bringing back bohemian florals, flowy sleeves, and a whole lot of groovy vibes. Brides in 2024 are saying yes to the free-spirited, laid-back feels of the 70s, turning their weddings into a nostalgic dance of love. Wedding color palettes will incorporate more mustard yellows, burnt oranges, and earthy browns. Dance floors will be transformed into a funky disco where the couple and guests can boogie the night away. 2024 is all about timeless love and a whole lot of retro charm.

Digital Guest Books

Out with the pen and paper, in with digital memories! Digital guest books are the new wedding trend, letting guests leave messages, photos, and even videos for the couple to look back on. It allows guests to better capture their energy while celebrating the newlywed. A popular alternative are Polaroid guestbooks where guests snap a photo with a Polaroid camera. Now the concept has been entirely digitalized with QR codes that allow guests to upload photos straight from their phone. Sites like Guestpix or Kulu, make it easy for your guests to share their images, no app required. We think more couples will place these QR codes throughout their reception so guests can share their photos with ease.

Private Ceremony

Another wedding trend that we predict for 2024, is more couples opting for a private ceremony before their grand celebration. Private ceremonies allow couples to exchange vows in a setting that truly resonates with their love story. It allows the couple to have a heartfelt moment without the pressure of adhering to traditional norms. Whether it’s a secluded garden, a beach at sunset, or the comfort of home, private ceremonies offer the flexibility to choose a location that holds sentimental value. After the intimate “I Dos” they can celebrate with the rest of their friends and family at the reception.

Pearls & Bows

Lastly, we think classic elegance will get a modern twist with pearls and bows stealing the spotlight. Pearls, the OG symbol of sophistication, are continuing to make a comeback in bridal accessories and decor. Paired with whimsical bows, it’s a combo that adds a touch of romance and charm to the wedding scene. Nothing says romance quite like a beautifully tied bow. From delicate bows accentuating the back of a wedding dress to oversized bows adorning chairs or floral arrangements. It’s traditional but with a modern twist.

Alright, wedding trendsetters, get ready to say “I Do” in style in 2024! From digital guest books to pearls & bows bringing classic charm, it’s a year of bridal trends that’ll make your heart race. Stay tuned as we share how to turn your wedding dreams into reality!

Crafting Holiday Magic: DIY Hot Cocoa Gift Box

Elena Rodarte • December 04, 2023

As the holiday season wraps us in its festive embrace, what better way to spread joy than with heartfelt DIY gifts? This year, elevate your gifting game with our enchanting DIY Hot Cocoa Gift ideas. From regular cocoa mix to a custom cocoa lover delight, this creation is sure to warm hearts and create lasting memories. This Custom Hot Cocoa Gift Box is the perfect holiday gift idea for friends, family, coworkers, and more!

Imagine the delight of unwrapping a homemade hot cocoa experience. Created with love and creativity, this DIY Hot Cocoa Gift Box Kit is totally customizable and will warm the hearts of whoever you give it to! You can include items like a premium cocoa mix, fluffy marshmallows, and a sprinkle of holiday magic. Pair it with a custom mug or a festive ribbon for an extra-special touch. Let’s get started!

Things you will need:

Kraft Gift Box

Snowman Jars

Hot Cocoa Mix

Mini Marshmallows

Snowflake Ornament

Sprinkles (optional)

Additional Sweets (optional)

Ribbon (optional)

Putting It Together

To create this gift, you’ll first need to get your Kraft Boxes customized on our site! We recommend putting the recipient’s name on the clear lid, but you can also do fun words like “Merry”, “Cocoa”, or “Jolly”. Make sure to also order the Snowman Jars and other fun holiday accessories like our Snowflake Ornament, Snowman Mug, Merry Mug, Holiday Apron, or more from our Holiday Collection! Grab your favorite hot chocolate mix and sweets from your local grocery store like Walmart or Target.

Once you receive your items you can begin by assembling your Snowman Jars. The glass favor jars will come separate from the snowman stickers. All you need to do is attach the self-stick snowman labels to the jar. Once done you can fill the Snowman Candy Jars with hot cocoa powder and mini marshmallows. (We recommend using a small funnel for the hot chocolate mix.) You can fill each with a mixture of the two or keep them in separate jars.

Finishing Touches

Now that you have your jars filled, you’re ready to start assembling the boxes! Grab your kraft box and place your filled snowman jars inside. You can place as many jars as fits, or just put a few and fill the rest of the box with additional sweets and holiday treats. Our favorites are chocolate stirring spoons, assorted sprinkles, and holiday cookies. You can also fill it with other gifts that you think your recipient will love like gift cards, money, or other small gifts!

Ready for Gifting

When you’re done filling the box, all that’s left to do is gift it! You can add a custom tag, label, card, or ribbon to go with it. Pair it with one of our custom mugs for a complete hot chocolate kit! Our Snowman Mugs are a favorite for the little ones and our Glass Mug are perfect for a coffee lover. These personal touches show you care and will make the gift extra memorable. Now you’re ready to sleigh the holiday season!

Happy Gifting!

Custom Hand Sanitizer Favors – Perfect Blend of Safety & Fun

Elena Rodarte • September 28, 2023

Looking for a party favor that’s photo-ready and practical? These hand sanitizer favors are the ideal choice! Unlike some party favors that might end up forgotten, custom sanitizers are practical and can be used daily. Not only will it keep your guests germ-free throughout your celebration, but it will have you at ease knowing everyone’s health is prioritized. Whether you’ve envisioned a themed gathering or prefer a minimalist approach, we have custom hand sanitizer favors to best align with your aesthetic!

Floral Garden Hand Sanitizer

To start, our floral garden sanitizer has label styles designed to capture the essence of vintage bliss! Alongside rustic color options, your custom text is presented in a script and bold font to honor a precious date of celebration or a heartfelt expression.

Tropical Hand Sanitizer

If you are stirring up a new summer fun memory, we also have design options to elevate your tropical bash! You can add a personalized touch to your beach festivities with our tropical label options. Choose from our 1 oz or 2 oz bottle sizes.

Personalized Hand Sanitizer Spray

Alternatively, these elegant glass hand sanitizer spray bottles adorned with a gold lid are perfect for those seeking a touch of refinement and style. You can make it uniquely yours with our clear custom text labels!

Hand Sanitizer Spray

Additionally, if your preference leans towards minimalism, you have the option to leave these spray bottles blank. The glass bottles can stand on their own as an elegant favor. Cheers to keeping it simple!

Custom hand sanitizers are more than just a trend; they’re a practical, thoughtful, and versatile party favor choice that can elevate your event to the next level. These tokens of appreciation express your gratitude for their presence in joining you. Whether it’s an indoor or outdoor affair, these hand sanitizers will accompany your guests as they continue to do the same in your upcoming milestones! If these hand sanitizers were a part of your special occasion, we’d love to see them! Tag us @weddingfavorites

The Best Matching Shirts For Your Bachelorette Party!

Melina Simkins • September 07, 2023

Looking for matching outfits you & your babes can wear at the bach party? Come along with us to break down some of our Bachelorette Party Shirt styles! These shirts are a must-wear during bachelorette parties at any time of the year. Our shirts are made up of soft and stretchy material and can be ordered with an original personalization that will have your girls never taking them off. We love the versatility of these shirts: wear them dressed up, dressed down, tied up, cropped, or however your heart desires, giving you the freedom to wear your shirt how you like while still matching with your besties.

With so many options, it can be hard to choose the right one for your squad. Here’s a breakdown of all our shirt options so you can choose the style that matches your theme:

Retro Bride + Babes

Our Retro Bride & Babes shirts have a fun, colorful, bold text style that reflects a groovy 70s vibes. The base colors of the shirts come in black/white or tan/blush overlaid with trendy retro lettering. If your bachelorette has something to do with disco, groovy dancing, or throwbacks, these shirts are exactly what you need!

Cactus Fiesta

Cactus Fiesta shirts are a great addition if your party theme is New Mexico Deserts, Final Fiesta, or Disco Cowgirl. On our black base version, the minimal gold cactus in a pot design dramatically pops against its base color and looks beautiful in person and in photos. These shirts will blend seamlessly with a pair of denim jeans, cowgirl boots, and a cowboy hat. If your Bachelorette trip is in Scottsdale, the Cactus Fiesta shirt is super fitting! We also have a tighter, more fitted version in white, grey, & black.

Get it Personalized

Our Custom Text T-Shirts allow you to choose from various text colors and styles. Bonus, you will get three lines of whatever personalization you want to add on the shirt! Whether you want to include the bride’s last name, a funny phrase, or a saying that fits the party theme, you will definitely have the space to do so. Keep it simple or get creative – the choice is yours! We offer this custom style on both our fitted and semi-fitted shirts.

Blush Pink Tees

Our blush tops are the perfect mix between a dusty rose and a warm pastel pink color. With style options to choose from like “the maid of honor” or “mother of the groom”, you’ll be able to order one for every person in the bridal party! That way, everyone will be included while having a super cohesive look in the photos.

Let’s Flamingle

Our Let’s Flamingle shirt is perfect for summery Flamingo Fridays or Florida-themed parties! These soft pink t-shirts are lightweight and comfortable with a white flamingo graphic on the front. Enjoy your final flamingle with your matching bridesmaids wearing these adorable, bright tops. Plus, the neutral text ensures these can be worn post-celebration. Too cute!

Bridal Party Staple

Still searching for a different, yet classy look? No problem! Pick either a natural or blush shirt to highlight the bride, bride’s babes, and babe of honor written in an elegant cursive and serif font. The light colors make it easy to pair with light, dark, or patterned bottoms. These shirts are perfect for keeping track of the girls on your night out or while running errands during your weekend getaway. Choose between our fitted or semi-fitted shirts to get the perfect fit for you.

Bride’s Babes Alternate Colors

We’ve taken our classic “Bride” and “Babe” tops and designed an alternate color and text variation. Now, paired with a beautiful script font and more shirt colors, like natural w/ black text or blush, tan, and clay w/ white text, to choose from you’ll have full control over the type of look you want. These matching tops + a fun backdrop = the sweetest photos.

Vintage Party

Our Vintage Bridal Babe Shirts offer a unique font and crew neck jersey style that reminds us of Barbie and Grease! Even the little hearts adorning the letter “i” offers the perfect touch. If you’ve planned to throw a Barbie Bachelorette Themed Party or one inspired by the revered cult-classic Grease, you’ll definitely need these high-quality shirts. You get this vintage design on our fitted, semi-fitted, or relaxed-fit shirts.

Any one of these styles can match your dream look! Between the colors, font styles, designs, customizations, and fit, many of our shirts can be re-imagined to fit the style of your party. If you decide to wear any of these throughout the bachelorette party & wedding journey, make sure to tag us @weddingfavorites.

Crafting Your Own DIY “His & Hers” Candy Wedding Favors

Melina Simkins • August 29, 2023

Weddings are all about celebrating love, and what better way to express that love than with personalized and charming favors? In this blog post, we’ll guide you through a delightful journey of creating your own acrylic candy boxes filled with delectable treats. Our DIY “His & Hers” candy wedding favors are a combination of elegance and sweetness, offering a creative way to thank your guests for being part of your special day.

His & Hers candy box wedding favors with a "Love is Sweet: Please Take a Treat" banner.

The best part about this DIY is that it requires only a few materials and is very quick to make. If you’re looking for a super cute addition to your wedding décor, this is definitely worth doing. We’ve broken the process down into only 3 steps, which makes it reasonable for anyone to accomplish!

Things You Will Need:

2 Candies of Your Choice (The Bride’s Favorite & Groom’s Favorite)
Clear Acrylic Favor Boxes (One set with White Labels for “Her Favorite”)
Clear Acrylic Favor Boxes (One set with Black Labels for “His Favorite”)

Step 1 – Gather Your Supplies:

Before we can get started, the first and foremost step is for you to obtain all the items you will need to craft your own His & Hers candy wedding favors. You’ll want to head to weddingfavorites.com and select one of our clear candy favor box styles. You can choose styles from clear acrylic squares, and round glass candy favor jars, to mini glass mason jars in various sizes. Each option comes with its own label style that can be personalized. When you go to place your order, make sure that you’ve selected two different label styles, one for “his” and one for “her”.

We opted for these Clear Acrylic Favor Boxes with white labels for “her” and black labels for “his”. Additionally, our favorite candies of choice were Jelly Bean Confections and Chocolate Whoppers. Yum!

Step 2 – Assemble “Her Favorite” Candy Favors

Once you have all of your items in one place, you’ll need to separate them. Organization is key! So, if you’ve purchased 80 containers, move 40 to one side for “her” and 40 to the other side of the table for “his”. Move the correct candy to each side of the table, so that you won’t accidentally make too many containers with the same type of candy. We want to make sure there are an equal number of giveaway candy favor boxes for all your guests.

Now, you’ll want to start filling the containers. We started with “Her Favorite”, Chocolate Whoppers. Open the containers one at a time, and fill to the top with her favorite candy!

Most likely, you’ll have a lot of boxes to fill. We recommend utilizing the Pomodoro Technique, a time management strategy invented by Italian Francesco Cirillo, which suggests that you should focus on one single task at a time for about 25 – 30 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. After 4 Pomodoro sessions, take a longer break of about 10 – 15 minutes. This way, you can maximize your efficiency by intensely focusing on one task at a time!

After you’ve filled all the containers with her candy, next you’ll want to peel & apply the labels. Remember to drink water and take breaks when needed to prevent wedding DIY burnout. You’ll gently peel the label from the sheet, center and align them to the container, press and seal them. That’s it!

Step 3 – Repeat for “His Favorite” Candy Wedding Favors

After you’ve completed “Her Favorites” it’s time to make candy containers for the hubby! Just like a relationship, it takes 2. You’ll follow the same steps from Step 2 when you made the bride’s candy wedding favors. So get “his” boxes, candy, and labels. Then, fill, peel, stick and you’re ready to go!

This simple and cute DIY is a manageable and thoughtful parting gift for your guests at your wedding. It’s easy enough to do that if you’re too busy with other equally important wedding tasks, this could quickly be delegated to a Maid of Honor or Bridesmaid. This technique could also be used for other occasions because the labels are personalized. Think, birthday parties, baby showers, bridal showers, and more! You can insert any sweet treat of your choice that will fit inside the box. Pro Tip: We recommend pairing a dark candy with lighter labels so that the candy favors appear more dramatic in photos! (take a look at the example below 😉)

And that’s a wrap! Simple, yet beautiful, this delightful project is a perfect addition to any celebration and tells a symbolic story about you and the groom. Your personalized touch will resonate with your guests since these charming favors reflect your creativity and thoughtfulness. If you are inspired to include this DIY in your upcoming wedding celebration, tag us @weddingfavorites so we can share it with other brides!