3500 Midwest Rd. | Oak Brook, IL 60523

630.850.4194 | oakbrookhillsresort.com

Situated in one of the most desirable upscale locations in the western suburbs of Chicago, our “hidden gem of the suburbs” provides a perfect setting to host your family and friends among 150 acres of beautiful grounds. The newly renovated Marquis tent, featuring a sleek, modern design with a full wall of windows, is ready for the 2019 wedding season. Begin your reception on the private patio watching the sunset dip below the Willow Crest Golf Course, then dine and dance the night away inside this amazing venue.

505 N. Michigan Ave. | Chicago, IL 60611

312.321.8735 | icchicagohotel.com

The InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile is thrilled to have given both their Renaissance and Grand Ballrooms exquisite renovations for your upcoming celebrations. Guests will twirl around the dance floor under opulent crystal chandeliers and intricate hand-painted frescos reminiscent of Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel. With an updated color scheme of sophisticated gray tones and gold accents, the historic hotel establishes an elegant and lavish atmosphere that makes it one of Chicago’s most treasured gems. With the help of their incredible culinary and events team, The InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile will successfully make your wedding dreams come true.

1571 S. Elmhurst Rd. | Des Plaines, IL 60018

847.593.2233 | manzosbanquets.com

Manzo’s Banquets has effortlessly hosted beautiful weddings at their venue for nearly 35 years. With recent renovations, guests will be in awe of their spectacular ballrooms adorned with crystal chandeliers, ornate ceilings and marble dance floors enhancing the venue’s sophisticated atmosphere. The private bridal suites have been redecorated with love, to ensure you feel comfortable and relaxed on your special day. Guests will capture the perfect photo opportunity on an enchanting open patio decorated with glowing LED lights spelling “I DO” and “LOVE”. Manzo’s impeccable service and luxurious decór will help create intimate memories that will be cherished forever.

315 N. LaSalle St. | Chicago, IL 60654

312.527.1417 | riverroastchicago.com

River Roast has been named one of the best patios in the city with glittering views of the Chicago riverfront and its acclaimed glory. Expansive windows line the restaurant’s historic red brick walls giving the venue a rich and industrial ambiance. With its updated bar that includes indoor-outdoor service, the spacious Murdoch room opens up to a beautiful outdoor terrace for a cocktail reception overlooking the water. The versatile space includes new decorative mobile bars and an eclectic selection of furniture to accommodate your event’s ideal aesthetic. Your special day will be unforgettable with breathtaking views and remarkable service from the beginning to the the fairy-tale ending.

838 W. Kinzie St. | Chicago, IL 60642

312.801.1181 | thecityhall.com

Chicago’s newly opened City Hall is a sprawling venue divided into a 5,000 sq. ft. event space, a 3,700 sq. ft. restaurant and a 6,000 sq. ft. patio. Skylights run the length of the building and bathe the space in natural light, accentuating the intricate iron trusses and exposed brick original to the structure. The open hall brings in classical and neoclassical design elements, emulating those of historic municipal buildings across America. Refined finishes, such as art deco steel panels and a 40-foot marble bar, dazzle, while a newly built loft and private bridal suite, overlook the space for your perfect wedding celebration.

155 W. Van Buren St. | Chicago, IL 60605

312.624.8778 | taureauxtavern.com

Experience a taste of France right here in Chicago at Taureaux. Offering elevated French dining in the heart of Chicago’s Loop, this recently opened restaurant and bar boasts outdoor seating all year round under the covered outdoor pergola. Your guests will taste the acclaimed chef’s seasonal menus and indulge in paired wines from an extensive list. Let the private dining team customize and refine your next wedding event to distinguished perfection.

The wedding pros at Silver Lake Country Club popped by the blog to share all about the gorgeous grounds and fabulous event space they offer for wedding ceremonies and receptions. All photos provided by Silver Lake Country Club.

Couples looking to host a wedding in Chicago have hundreds of options. What makes Silver Lake Country Club so unique?

Silver Lake has amazing photo opportunities! Our rooms are surrounded by spectacular gardens which are illuminated in the evening and the lush 300-acre property offers lakes, fountains, willows and even barns for the rustic look. Additionally, guests love being able to enjoy the evening on the patios right outside the rooms while still being able to get back on the dance floor when that great song comes on.

How is Silver Lake Country Club adaptable?

Thanks to the gorgeous garden views, there really isn’t too much decorating that needs to be done. Couples can really put their personality on the event through centerpieces and small details without having to break the bank decorating a blank canvas type of room.

What about the size of events? How does Silver Lake Country Club cater to small, intimate weddings vs. big, boisterous ones?

The Garden Rooms can hold 120 to 420 guests with floor to ceiling windows overlooking our lush gardens. For those more intimate receptions the Club Room can hold 40 to 80 guests with a cozy fireplace and fabulous view of the course.

Why does Silver Lake Country Club like hosting weddings?

We love the unique personalities of the brides and grooms that choose Silver Lake. They all have their individual style which we love to see in their wedding vision and then get to be part of making that vision become a reality.

What are your tips for couples who are just starting the wedding planning process, especially those who are still trying to pick a venue?

The best tip I could give a couple would be to get the “out the door” quote from venues. It is amazing how the tax, service charge and rental fees can really add up when it comes to making the final payment. This quote will give you an idea of what the cost will be once you’re “out the door” on the night of the event.

Located just 20 miles South of Chicago, Silver Lake Country Club is the perfect venue for any type of celebration or corporate event. With amazing views, gourmet food, and an excellent staff, your event is sure to be perfect. To start planning your dream wedding, email [email protected].

Nervous about pulling off the perfect first dance at your wedding? The entertainment professionals at Chicago Wedding DJs dropped by the blog with their best tips for making your first dance a memorable moment that everyone will enjoy! All photos provided by Chicago Wedding DJs.

1. Learn to Dance

There’s no way around it. You’re going to have to practice. This might be something you think you should just do in the kitchen or in a group class, but the best way is to take private lessons. There the teacher can focus on your weakness and strengths to help you choreograph the perfect first dance routine.

2. Check Out Online Videos

One of the best places to get inspiration is online. The recent trend of styled wedding dances will give you some great ideas. You can get plenty ideas of what you’d like to do as well as what you’d like to avoid. Hopefully your first dance wedding video will be one that inspires other couples!

3. Have Fun!

You might have heard this before, but wedding planning could use a little more fun. So much of your wedding planning together will mirror how you and your partner work as a couple. Dance is really a powerful way to connect. Once you’ve chosen the right song, you’ll be ready to get into the experience of designing a memorable dance. With the right attitude, you’ll both have fun with the mistakes as well as when it goes right!

Want to make sure your wedding guests enjoy the dance floor all night long? Contact Chicago Wedding DJs to check their availability for your Big Day.

This post is sponsored by Clean Origin.

Whether you’re newly engaged or you can feel the ‘big question’ is about to be popped, you’re likely already thinking about what you’ll wear, where you’ll get married, and maybe even what you’ll say when you promise forever. But, you’re also probably starting to consider some of the outdated wedding traditions that can make the lead-up to your big day, a big headache. Don’t feel like you’re alone. You’d think that by 2019 most of these traditions would be done away with, but change takes time. So, be one of the first to mix things up and do these five things instead.

Pick Out the Rings Together

Traditionally, the man had to spend time trying to figure out exactly what type of engagement ring his future fiance wanted, gauge by himself if it should be a diamond or other alternative, and figure out the size of not only the rock, but her ring finger. Although some women might still enjoy the element of surprise, I don’t think too many would object to having a bit more input. In fact, it is becoming more and more normal to simply show your significant other exactly what you want. This way, there’s no guessing and no disappointment.

There are also tons of more options in regards to the types of rings that are available. For a while, a solitaire ring with a yellow gold band was the go-to style of engagement rings. Today, there are not only tons of new styles to choose from, but there are diamond alternatives that are just as, if not more, appealing. The main option being lab made diamonds. Not only do they have the same chemical makeup as a mined diamond, but they tend to save you quite a bit of money, often coming in at 20-30% less expensive.

Split All Costs

Imagine if your dad had four daughters and your fiance was an only child. The breakdown of wedding costs would seem a bit misplaced. And that’s if you’re sticking to the tradition of having your parents help pay for the wedding. Instead of trying to decide who pays for what, why not just split everything down the middle or pay for every together. That’s how all costs will be moving forward, so why not start on the day married life becomes official? If your parents are helping you out, then maybe talk to them about this idea as well.

Wear The Color Your Want

Who says you have to wear a white dress on your wedding day?! Although the tradition seems dreamy to some people, it’s painful and unnecessary to others. Stay true to who you are and wear something that represents your personal style. This is, arguably, one of the biggest days of your life. You shouldn’t feel pressured to wear a certain color just because it’s “the way it has always been.” Find a dress that you’ll look back at and still want to put on fifty years from now. 

Let Your Bridesmaids Have a Say

Let’s face it. It’s extremely hard, if not impossible to find one single bridesmaid dress that will look good on every single one of your bridesmaids. Instead of torturing them just so you can have uniformity, let them choose a style that fits their body type and that they feel great in! A common trend at the moment is to pick a color palette and maybe even a store where you want them to purchase the dress (so that all the materials match). Then, give them free range on the style they get to choose. This will make them feel much more comfortable, which will ultimately show through in your wedding day photos and videos.

Have Food You Enjoy

Chicken or beef? How about tacos or pizza? Donuts or ice cream? One of the worst wedding traditions is the buffet-style menu that you’ve eaten five times already that wedding season. Why not mix it up and get a variety of foods that your guests will absolutely love? Find a unique caterer that offers a menu you’ve never seen before. Or have a few food trucks come and let your guests decide what they’ll be eating for dinner. The meal is often one of the most expensive parts of a wedding. And for what? Partially cold chicken and a scoop of mashed potatoes? It’s your day. Enjoy it to the fullest.

Some wedding traditions can be great. And for many, a traditional wedding is one they’ve always dreamed of. But by no means are they necessary for everyone. If you’re searching for a modern wedding, take these five recommendations into consideration during your planning.

Written by Emily Conley and Anne Morrissy | Photography by Emma Belen Photography

Finding your dream wedding dress can feel daunting, regardless of your dress size or body shape. After all, this will be the dress you want to remember as nothing less than perfect. For petite brides, there is the challenge of finding a dress that can be shortened and frustration of finding the right proportions, and for curvy brides, navigating the high-fashion world of wedding gowns can feel downright impossible. We understand the fear and apprehension that commonly accompanies shopping for a bridal gown, but we also believe every woman should feel empowered when shopping for her big day. The key is having the right mindset, confidence and support system to overcome any barriers to finding the dress of your dreams.

SIZING

Let’s start with one of the toughest parts of shopping for a wedding dress — the sizing. When you buy a pair of jeans or a dress off the rack at a run-of-the-mill clothing store, chances are good that the manufacturer employs vanity sizing. To make matters more complicated, stores all use their own sizing systems, so it’s entirely possible to wear a size 10, 12 and 14 in jeans that come from three different stores. Your waist obviously doesn’t change from store to store, but rather the number assigned to your clothes has little correlation to the actual measurements of the garments.

Now here’s where bridal shopping can get even more challenging. Wedding dresses are typically made following high-fashion sizing, which is based on European measurement charts and differs from American sizing conventions. Because of this, no matter what your American size, you should expect your wedding dress to be one to two sizes (or more) larger than your typical off-the-rack size. For brides who have a difficult relationship with their American size number, having to go up in number can sometimes feel soul-crushing.

Brides who struggle with this have different options for dealing with the emotional impact of their wedding dress size. Some choose to mentally prepare themselves for the size to be bigger, acknowledging the fact that wedding dress sizing runs small and, therefore, accepting the size of the dress as a reality that doesn’t affect how they look or feel. This strategy will work well for a lot of brides, but it isn’t enough for everyone.

Another option is to simply opt to not find out which size dress is being ordered for you. The sales associate can take your measurements and order a dress size based on those measurements, but you don’t have to know which size is ultimately ordered. (If you are opting for this strategy, simply ask for the size information to be withheld or redacted on any form or receipt you need to sign and ask a friend to cut out the tag when you receive your dress.) While this may sound dramatic, if the size of the dress will influence how a bride feels in it, it may be totally worth it to keep that negative information out of mind.

SHOPPING FOR YOUR WEDDING DRESS

The experience of shopping for a wedding dress can be a thrilling rite of passage or an overwhelming or sometimes even disappointing day. The key to success is choosing the right place to shop and inviting the best group of trusted friends.

In choosing where to shop, first do some research. We’ve got many incredible bridal boutiques in this issue who offer a range of specialties and services. Some brides may opt for a shop that carries a wide variety of plus sizes in stock, while others may be looking for expert in-house alterations that will be able to accommodate, say, a long or short torso.

When it comes to bridal shopping, one of the most important considerations is who to invite along. It’s best to go with at least one other person who can give feedback and make the experience feel more special. One strategy for success is to create a support squad who will give a boost of confidence and an honest opinion without any underhanded or judgmental comments. Many brides choose a single close, supportive friend, parent or family member as their plus-one. Alternatively, other brides find strength in numbers. Regardless of the number of supporters invited, make sure each person included brings only good vibes — invite those people you know will build you up and make sure you feel beautiful.

ALTERATIONS MATTER

Because every body is different, virtually every bride will choose to have her wedding dress altered to fit her unique shape, so be sure to plan for the expense and time requirements of serious tailoring. A skilled tailor will have a toolbox of tricks to ensure that nearly any dress will fit any body appropriately. Make sure the tailor takes the time to understand any specific concerns about the fit as well as any desired changes. For example, you may find the perfect ball gown except that it is just too full for your shape or taste. In that situation, a skilled tailor can remove several layers of tulle or crinoline during the alterations.

CUSTOMIZATION

Beyond the basic alterations, there’s a wide range of customization available when it comes to wedding gowns. A bride may find a dress that checks all of her must-haves, except for the neckline. If this happens, don’t despair! See if there is a way to change up the look, like deepening a V-neckline or adding lace sleeves to a strapless design. Significant changes are possible.

For particularly discerning brides or brides with body measurements far outside the standard, it may be best to opt for a fully custom-designed gown.

Research designers and tailors who specialize in gowns that appeal to your specific tastes and body type. Don’t be dissuaded by the potential price tag — many brides are surprised at how comparably priced a custom creation can be when compared to ordering a dress and paying for significant alterations. Your wedding gown is one of the most important aspects of how you will look and feel on your big day, so don’t be afraid to spend the time and dollars necessary to find the right dress.

FOR CURVY BRIDES

Curvy women come in all sizes. But historically, finding wedding gowns in sizes larger than a 12 has been extremely challenging. That trend is slowly changing, and today more and more brands and salons are including and even catering to the plus-sized market. This means that with a little research, curvy brides of larger sizes can go to a salon and try on gowns in their sizes, something that was once nearly impossible, and there are more styles and designs available than ever before. There are no rules! No one style of dress is better or worse for curvy brides. It’s a matter of personal taste, and how the cut and design of the dress works on each unique body. However, one thing for curvy brides to keep in mind is comfort: strapless dresses, for example, may necessitate significant foundational undergarments or come with stiff built-in boning.

FOR TALL BRIDES

Brides who are six feet tall or taller may need to order a dress with extra fabric to ensure a true floor-length gown. Most wedding dress brands will offer this option. However, it’s important to note that the extra fabric is added entirely to the length of the skirt, so for tall brides with average-length legs and long torsos, the extra fabric will not necessarily help the fit. Because of this, it’s best to find a dress with a bodice that works regardless of the promise of added length. Alternatively, if a tall bride falls in love with a dress that does not offer the option of extra fabric, a skilled tailor can often find creative ways to add length through the addition of a subtle lace panel or new layers.

FOR PETITE BRIDES

For brides who are shorter than five feet, four inches, it can be helpful to buy a gown that is cut for their shorter stature. Many brands offer a petite version of their dresses, and in this case, it usually means that the entire dress is scaled down proportionally for shorter frames, not just that the skirt is shortened. However, the challenge for shorter brides is that salons rarely carry petite sizes in stock, so the petite bride is left to try on a gown that is too long overall and hope that the problem will be solved by ordering the petite version. This can occasionally lead to some fairly extensive alterations when the dress arrives, so plan accordingly.

FOR ATHLETIC-BUILD BRIDES

Wedding gowns are generally designed with the classic dress-form mold in mind — think curves in the bust and hips, and a narrowing at the waist. Brides with an athletic build who do not have these pronounced curves may struggle to find a wedding gown cut for their straighter proportions. One trick is to look for gowns in a fabric with a little stretch that will accommodate different shapes. For athletic-build brides who have a dream of a specific fabric or style of gown but are having trouble finding the right fit, a custom design may be the best option, as the designer can tailor everything to the bride’s specific measurements.

SELF-CONFIDENCE

Everyone deserves to feel incredible and look amazing on her big day. During bridal appointments, it can be helpful to have an idea of certain preferred styles, but it’s definitely not required. No matter what your body type, forget any notion of certain styles you aren’t “allowed” to wear. Bridal fashion options are extensive: the most important thing is for each bride to find a design that makes her feel special and beautiful on her wedding day.

For most of us, our wedding day is our most photographed day. With that in mind, it’s of the utmost importance that you are in love with the way you look in your dress. No two brides are exactly alike: what may appear off-putting on the hanger may fit like a glove once you try it on. Think of finding a dress like its very own chapter in your wedding book. Go into this chapter with an open mind and an open heart to ensure that you are giving yourself every opportunity to fall in love.

For brides planning to lose weight before the wedding day, it can be tempting to put off dress shopping until you drop a few pounds, no matter your starting size. However, don’t wait too long! Most wedding dresses take at least eight months to arrive, and alterations will then require another one to two months, so plan accordingly.

It is advisable to purchase a dress that fits your current figure and not a goal that you set for yourself. There is no reason to put extra pressure on yourself to squeeze into a dress that is two sizes too small. Planning a wedding can be stressful enough, so why add the stress of weight loss into the mix?

Your partner loves you exactly as you are. Never let your beauty be defined by a number.

INSPIRATION

One clever way to increase your confidence about your own appearance is to surround yourself with images of women with a body shape that reflects your own. If you are petite and athletic, seek out images of similar brides. If you are curvy, find images of beautiful curvy brides. Don’t build Pinterest boards of wedding dress inspiration that only feature thin, professional models. Find body-positive photos of real-life brides. Seeing wedding gowns on women with a similar body type to your own will help you identify styles that you like and will make you feel more comfortable when you try on a gown and look in the mirror in a wedding dress for the first time.

CELEBRATE

Make a big deal out of your wedding dress shopping day (or days)! Many brides choose to make an event out of it — with a stop for manicures, brunch or spa treatments after the shopping is over. If you’re nervous about the dress shopping itself, bookend the trip with things you love to do so you have something to look forward to. The excitement and enthusiasm will naturally carry over.

In a one-hour salon appointment, brides typically try on eight to 13 gowns. Once you have seen a sufficient number, narrow the options down to your favorite three to five dresses, then make your choice from these. Be honest about your preferences and don’t let anyone pressure you into buying a gown you don’t love.

Make sure the dress shopping experience is fun, successful and enjoyable by setting the right tone and mood, and going into it with a positive outlook. Every bride will eventually find a dress that works! It might not be what you expect, so always keep an open mind when trying on different styles. At some point, you will slip into a gown that feels just right and makes it easy to imagine walking down the aisle. When that happens, pop some bubbly and celebrate.

Browse wedding dress inspiration from real Chicago brides. And, find a bridal salon near you!

While every part of your wedding day has opportunities to be unique, wedding receptions are the place to let your personalities truly shine. Receptions give you a lot of freedom to play up your color scheme or theme. But if you are a bit intimidated by the wide world of wedding décor, you’re not alone! Choosing just the right furnishings and decorations to capture the feel you want for your reception is no easy feat – but it’s far from impossible. Read on to find out how to pick out the right décor to achieve the wedding reception you have been dreaming about.

Know Your Style.

If you have not decided on an aesthetic for your wedding yet, that’s priority number one. Pinterest can be your friend when it comes to getting inspiration for your wedding reception, but sometimes it can also make things more difficult. It’s all too easy to get lost in the bottomless abyss of wedding boards, but if no consistent style emerges in your searches it can be challenging to know just exactly how you want your reception to look.

Think of your wedding as a whole and how your photos will look all laid out in a photo album. There should be a visually pleasing consistency tying the day together. You don’t want the elements of your wedding to clash, so it’s important to find a theme or style and stick with it so that it flows nicely.

Remember, Pinterest is not your only source for décor inspiration. If you want your wedding reception to be infused with your and your fiancé’s unique personalities, all you have to do is search for elements already present in your life. Take inventory of how the two of you decorate your home or office. Notice if there are clothing styles you absolutely love. These things can act as a springboard to finding your own personal style.

Table Matters.

There is perhaps no single element more important to a perfect reception than putting together the right table décor. Not only will the design be repeated across the entire room, it’s also the element of your wedding your guests will have the most interaction with. This makes your tables one of the most important features of your wedding reception.

When it comes to table arrangements and place settings, the possibilities are nearly endless. You could keep it simple with nice floral centerpieces matching your wedding colors for a traditional look. Elevated floral centerpieces, such as tall fluted vases, are growing in popularity. Not only do they allow your guests to see each other from across their tables, but they also give an opulent and romantic look at your reception.

If you want to step it up with something that will really wow your guests, don’t be afraid to get creative. Personalize your tables to help your guests feel more connected to you. For example, if you and your fiancé are movie buffs adding quotes about love from your favorite films to each place setting is a great way to show off that side of your personality. Likewise, if you are bookworms you might consider assigning each table a literary classic theme. Your imagination is the only thing holding you back.

Do not forget to design your head table – the place where you, your new spouse, and your bridal party will sit. Or, you might decide to do a sweetheart table, with just the two of you. It’s where your guests’ eyes will be naturally drawn to when they first arrive at your reception, so you want to make it spectacular. Consider the arrangements you are planning for the guests’ tables and think grander. Again, you want to keep the consistency while still making your head table stand out. Foliage and floral table garlands draped elegantly across the length of the table are beautiful options that are growing in popularity.

Light It Up.

Choosing the right lighting is everything when creating the perfect ambiance for your wedding reception. If you don’t want to rely on the lighting available at your reception venue, there are plenty of options for manipulating the lighting to achieve the feel you’re going for. Festoon lighting, commonly known as string lighting, is particularly appealing to many couples wanting to give their receptions a whimsical, fairytale vibe. It provides magical accents that can be used to create a canopy effect, especially when set against a backdrop of tulle or silk. String lighting is perfect for outdoor spaces and can be draped over bushes, woven within tree branches, or strung around banisters.

For a more industrial look, Edison bulbs offer a contemporary twist on a vintage classic. They offer a cool, rustic flair that makes a perfect companion to warehouse or barn venues and their rough-hewn quality makes them great centerpieces. Hanging Edison bulbs above the head table or around the venue also creates a great accent to your décor. Lanterns are another great option to add a hint of enchantment to your wedding reception. Not only do they make gorgeous centerpieces, but they can also be hung around your venue to create a dreamy, romantic atmosphere. They are especially suited to outdoor or summertime affairs.

To create an air of excitement and variety, consider pattern projections, also called a gobo, that can dance across the walls along with your guests as the party gets underway. They don’t have to be elaborate – in fact, it’s probably better that they are not. Just something simple to display that will help create a romantic atmosphere. In recent years, it’s been common for newlywedded couples to get their first initials or a custom monogram projected onto the dance floor.

The Extras.

So, you have figured out the theme you want. You have your tables and your lighting all squared away. Now comes all the little miscellaneous goodies that will make your guests go, “aw!”. These include your gift table, guestbook display, dessert station, bar set-up, cake stand, wedding favor display, and any other elements you want to include in your reception.

A table of pictures showing the progression from childhood to your engagement of both you and your new spouse is an adorable way to tell your love story. It also gives your guests a chance to see more of your milestones while pulling at the heartstrings of Mom, Dad, and even Aunt Sally.

If you have loved ones who have passed away, you might consider reserving a place for them at your reception by giving them a table of their very own. This is a beautiful and reverent way to honor those special people who regretfully can’t be with you on your special day. At this point, we probably sound like a broken record, but when planning your design, always keep your core aesthetic in mind. Remember that you want everything to come together and flow seamlessly.

The possibilities are truly endless for creating beautiful and personalized wedding receptions. While it might feel a bit overwhelming at first, just remember a little goes a long way. Don’t feel like you have to go overboard with decorations. You might run the risk of it looking too busy or cluttered. A few well-placed, deliberate décor decisions can make all the difference when planning the design of your reception. As long as you are being true to the unique style of you and your fiancé, your wedding reception is bound to be a truly breathtaking affair that perfectly represents the love the two of you share.

8 Ways to Turn Your Wedding Items into Keepsakes

The image of my grandparents’ wedding album is permanently imprinted in my mind. Its pillowed, white, lace-trimmed cover sat tucked behind the glass of their china cabinet next to an equally fluffy ring bearer pillow and a cracked, brown leather guestbook. They were lifelong keepsakes that held a special place of honor from the moment they moved into their house after their wedding, until they retired to Florida over 50 years later.

Most of us can recall an image from our childhood like this, the hutches and china cabinets of our parents and grandparents whose wedding keepsakes held similar, lifelong places of honor. While the marriages and the memories were no less special then than they are today, for our Pinterest-savvy generation, the standard wedding keepsakes just do not cut it anymore. If you have spent months planning your dream wedding, there is no doubt you are going to want the keepsakes from your big day to be as uniquely special as the day itself. Here are eight great ways to turn your wedding items into lifelong keepsakes; the kind you will want to keep on display for decades to come.

1. Get Creative with the Guest Book.

While my new hubby and I love flipping through our guest book every now and then (usually on our anniversary), most of the time it is tucked away on a shelf in the closet of our home office. If you are looking for fun and creative ways to make your guestbook a keepsake you will want to display all year round, think outside the box or, outside
the “book,” if you will. Invite your guests to sign another item; something that speaks directly to who you and your new spouse are. Did you go backpacking across Europe before tying the knot? Invite your guests to write their notes to you on a vintage-feeling map of the continent, one you will be thrilled to hang in your home. Are you both classic rock lovers? Leave a few vinyl records out on a table and invite your guests to sign them with paint pens. Consider creating a “message in a bottle” style guestbook by decorating a wine bottle (or multiple depending on your guest count) with your names and wedding date. Invite guests to tuck away notes or words of
wisdom that you will love to read for years to come.

2. You Cannot Go Wrong with a Photo Booth.

Photo booths have been making appearances at weddings for years now and trust me when I say they never, ever get old. Most photo booth companies will allow your guests two copies of each picture strip they snap: one for them, and one to paste into a keepsake album for you! There is nothing like flipping through an album of crazy selfies post-reception. Not only will you laugh over all the fun your guests had, you will also have hard evidence that their photos only got goofier as the night went on.

3. Upcycle Some of Those Fabrics.

This is a great way to give your wedding dress, your ring bearer pillow, your garter – basically any linen that you purchased instead of rented – a second life. There are tons of creative ideas for upcycling the fabrics you selected for your Big Day. From using pieces of your bridal gown for baby clothes or a baptismal gown (if kiddos are next on your to-do list) to repurposing your table runners as fun throw pillows, you definitely have more options than just storing them in a mothball-filled box in the attic.

4. Invest in a Cute Sign.

In other words, not something that you will just roll up and stick in the garage for years. Do you and your newly-wedded love to entertain friends and family around your spacious kitchen? Consider a sign for the hors d’oeuvres or dessert table, inviting your guests to feel welcome and dig in – something that will look cute at your wedding and great on your kitchen island later. Are you an outdoorsy duo? Maybe a distressed wood sign placed outside the reception, painted with your names or a favorite quote is more your style. After the wedding, display it near your front door or in your garden.

5. Repurpose Those Centerpieces.

When selecting centerpieces, think longterm. Items like mason jars or square candle votives not only make great table arrangements, they are also timeless enough that you can use them in your home for years to come. Vintage teacups make great wedding planters and afterward your kitchen will be fully-stocked for teatime. But you do not necessarily have to plan on just tossing those floral arrangements out, if you already love having greenery around your home, consider using succulents for your centerpieces. They are durable enough that they will last through the wedding and stick around long afterward. Lastly, you loved your bouquet, so why not preserve it? Have it made into a piece of jewelry – think earrings, bracelet or a pendant drop for a necklace – you will enjoy your beautiful bouquet for years to come.

6. Do Not Monogram Everything.

From shot glasses to champagne flutes, you will never be more inclined to monogram than you are in the weeks and months leading up to your wedding day. Don’t get me wrong, whether you are swapping last names, hyphenating, or keeping things traditional, there’s something about two names becoming one that is totally worth celebrating. But with that said, in five years, are you really going to want to invite your new boss and his wife over to toast your recent promotion with heart-and initial
etched wine glasses? If yes, then by all means, you monogram your little wedded heart out. Otherwise, you might consider something just as personal, but a little more, shall we say, evergreen? Do you remember the exact spot where you and your soon-to-be spouse met? If so, a quick online search can tell you the coordinates. “41.8781° N, 87.6298°W” looks super cool on a shot glass and, it makes for a good story. Maybe a line from your favorite song would look great etched along the base of a wine glass. Did you get the same, regrettably impulsive, tattoo in college? (Four-leaf clovers, moon and stars – you know the kind I’m talking about). You might cringe at those tiny skulls on your left hips now, but they might be the perfect design for a one-of-a-kind whiskey tumbler set. All I’m saying is, think outside the monogram.

7. Do Not Be Afraid to Think Big.

This is an idea I am loving lately – but it’ll take a little more planning than your standard wedding keepsake. Consider snagging a vintage rocking chair or a cozy bench to set up somewhere near the guestbook, or use it to replace your guestbook entirely! Place some fancy paint pens near it and invite your guests to write you loving messages or doodles during the reception. This keepsake will look completely adorable on your front porch or back deck for years.

8. Consider a Time Capsule.

Maybe you are all set at home: you have enough pillows, drinking glasses, and teacups to last you a lifetime. Or, maybe displaying your wedding memories all year-round just is not your style, no matter how much you might love all that swag on the big day. A wedding time capsule might be just what you are looking for. Pick a capsule that speaks to you and your spouse: a vintage trunk, a glass canister, repurposed wine bottle – practically anything works. Fill your “capsule” with items from your wedding day (notes you wrote to one another, personalized napkins, your hair clip, candid photographs that didn’t quite make the wedding album — the list goes on. Seal the capsule
until a special anniversary and tuck it away until the next Big Day.

Nestled in the heart of Buckhead, The Grand Hyatt Atlanta combines our stunning ballrooms and public spaces with our tranquil Zen Garden and awe inspiring waterfall to give your guests an unparalleled experience they won’t soon forget. Our passion for service and commitment to providing outstanding cuisine, beautiful decor, and our signature Hyatt care make us the perfect location for any occasion. We look forward to welcoming you to the Grand Hyatt Atlanta in Buckhead very soon!

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Sarah & Will

Event Planner: Big City Bride

Venue: Bridgeport Art Center

Photography: Studio This Is

Floral & Décor: Kehoe Designs

Cake & Sweets: Alliance Bakery

Stationery: Minted

Dana & Justin

Floral & Décor: Avant Gardenia

Event Planner: Rachael Steacy Events

Venue: Pazzo’s at 311

Photography: Kristin Bernice Photography for Cage + Aquarium

Cake: Sweet Ali’s Gluten Free Bakery

Stationery: Minted