Leopard Films USA, producers of HGTV series House Hunters International is casting a Food Network pilot Wedding Hunters.  We are searching for an awesome, engaged couple who are FOODIES and are getting married anytime between May-August (within the U.S.) who would love the opportunity to test drive 3 different tasting venues and share their wedding story with America.  If interested, please email danielle.gretz@leopardfilms.com with your names, contact number, wedding date/venue, a recent photo & a brief paragraph on why you would be perfect for this pilot. Tell us why you are considered foodies and if one of you works in the food/beverage industry.

Is this you?  If so, please email Danielle directly, and good luck!

From an overly protruding leg that now has it’s own Twitter account, to a questionable wardrobe malfunction (we don’t see it) that now has it’s own Twitter account, to – our favorite –  a red carpet “ashing” prank by a fictional dictator that was worthy of Punk’d, there were quite a few remarkable pop culture moments.

But there was also fashion on display that we’re likely to see show up in 2012 Spring and Summer weddings, so let’s keep it classy and discuss that!

Any Oscar fashions that you think might surface in 2012 wedding trends?

What a fabulous year for Style!  We loved so MANY this year!  ALLURE top 3 favs of the 2012 Oscar Red Carpet were Gwyneth Paltrow’s amazing white Tom Ford looked georgoeus and graceful! Cameron Diaz in her fitted Gucci was spot on for her fab figure and finally Sofia Vergara in the fabulous detailed strapless Roberto Cavalli!  ALLURE Love Love Loved the 2012 Oscar red carpet!
-Jiwon McCartney, ALLURE Event & Meeting Productions (Chicago, IL & Atlanta, GA)

Taking a cue from Angelina’s “major” thigh reveal, I think the trend of sexy slits will continue- perhaps even more daring (and baring!)  Here’s an idea for dress designers;  much like you add hooks to bustle a long train, how about adding a small hook so brides can reveal a leg-flaunting slit after the ceremony?  Keep it conservative at the altar, and “kick up the sexy” as the party continues!
-Kim Oliff, Always RSVP Event Design and Coordination (SF Bay Area and Beyond)

There were shades of old Hollywood glamour in side swept hair, dazzling white and shimmering gold and silver, lots of bling and bold cuffs. Gwyneth Paltrow wore an incredible white Tom Ford gown that epitomized the mix of old Hollywood and new, a modern incarnation of Jacqueline Kennedy.  Her only bijoux?   A modern diamond cuff which added more drama and glamour.   This look has been on trend in bridal for the past couple of years and it’s just getting stronger.  A dash of color will be an added welcome in bridal fashions as seen by the tres chic Michele Williams, who wore a standout red Louis Vuitton chiffon peplum gown with a circlet diamond necklace and a beautiful  bow brooch at the waistline.  We’re seeing more and more brides opting for color.  Certainly not for everyone, but the rules are getting thinner.  As the awards season comes to a close, red carpet trends translate into Spring’s newest looks which typically carry over to bridal fashions; modern shapes, sheer fabrics,  a dash of color, statement making drop earrings, bold cuffs  and our favorite, brooches.
-Susan Metropoulos, The Left Bank Jewelry & Bridal Finery (Chicago, IL)

Photo Credit: Just Jared

I think that Gwyneth Paltrow’s flawless classic white gown and coat will inspire brides in 2012.  Her dress was timeless.  Another trend I can see catching on is wearing a statement brooch on the back of the dress at the waist, channeling Angelina Jolie’s bold Oscar look.  Retro mermaid silhouettes and embellished trains were all the rage at the Oscars as well (think Cameron Diaz), and I can see those influences making appearances in 2012.

-Tatiana Abramova, theBrideScoop.com (Chicago, IL)

Old Hollywood was definitely present on the red carpet at the Oscars this year. From the luxe gowns in jeweled and beaded fabrics, to the retro hairstyles and accessories.

Gown after gown of inspiration: wedding dress-inspired gowns are appearing on red carpets everywhere this year.  At the Oscars, we saw plenty of white gowns, and some bright bold colors like red, blues and greens that may translate to bridesmaids’ dresses.  Several actresses opted for dresses that incorporated the sparkle into the design, like Sandra Bullock in black and cream Marchesa, Maya Rudolph in deep purple Johanna Johnson.

Some of my favorites in white were:  Gwyneth Paltrow in a fitted Tom Ford gown with matching floor length cape, Milla Jovovich in a one-shoulder gown by Elie Saab, Jennifer Lopez in an ultra-form-fitting dress by Zuhair Murad and Giuliana Rancic in a beautiful gown with leafy shoulder details.  Cameron Diaz wore an off-white Gucci gown, and I thought her sparkly silver fringe train was hot.  Rooney Mara’s look may not have been a hit with everyone, but I loved it and she could carry it off.   The train was gorgeous.

Credit: Wedding Paper Divas

Hairstyles and makeup: hair and makeup was subtle with only a few wearing heavy eye makeup or a bright lip color. Hairstyles with side swept soft curls, 40’s style pinned up-dos, and headbands.  The old Hollywood glam of the totally stylish bird cage veil has already made its way into weddings and I can see that as a growing trend with the glam trend becoming BIG.

While the shabby chic trend may be on the way out, Art Deco styles are emerging, and Mad Men has ushered in a 60’s retro feel as well.  Bridal style is following and I think that this year, and in the coming years we will see some very intriguing new styles reflecting all of these.
-Dina Balatti, Bella Celebrations (San Rafael, CA)

Ladies in Red (which not surprisingly is one of my favorite colors)!  It is a bold color statement and can be a great add to a wedding color palette with other bright colors or neutrals.  Red is for anyone.  Michelle Williams – a blond – wore a coral red dress.  Natalie Portman – a brunette – a polka dot true red strapless number and Emma Stone – a redhead – wore my favorite dress of the evening, an off-the-shoulder chiffon dress by Giambattista Valli.  The color was perfect and complemented her red locks and the bow on her shoulder was fun, whimsical and young.  These ladies took red carpet to a new level, and proved that any gal (or bridesmaid) can also wear a shade of red regardless of hair and skin tone.
-Robyn Bruns, Red Letter Event Planning (Glenview, IL)

Credit: Style Frizz

Credit: AtriumFashion

Credit: Dream Sequins

I loved the simple lines of many of the gowns and then highlighting it with either an amazing detail (think side bow on Emma Stone) or an awesome cape (shout out to Gwyneth Paltrow).  I also liked that the makeup and hair were not over the top (for most ladies).  Like we tell our brides ~ we want you to look like you but a little more glamorous!  A trend I wish would tone down:  actresses pushing their boobs all the way up to their chins (razzy to you J Lo!!!).
-Claudia Antony Zompa, AS YOU WISH EVENTS (Chicago, IL)

What do you think?  Have an opinion on what Oscar fashions will affect wedding style?  Enter it in the comments.

Really, you should.  The reason is because no one besides your planner tells you what sort of things you want to make sure you have done when during your wedding planning.

When should you have your dress sent for adjustments?  How long in advance do popular wedding bands book up?  Is this too soon to send save the dates?

Sure, you can find vague timing advice on wedding sites, but nothing replaces the drill sergeant precision (in a good way) of having a bonified planner on your side.  They’ll have your back and make sure nothing slips through the cracks.

For evidence of this, just look at this week’s LunchDate question.  With many couples gearing up for Summer weddings, we figured we’d turn to our wedding planner crew to ask what sort of things those couples need to be thinking about right now.

I’m a bride-to-be getting married in June. What stuff should I be worried about having done right now (mid Feb)?

With four months to go until the wedding the best advice I can give you is don’t mess around and go hire a good planner. Why? You will find that a lot of vendors and venues will be booked. However, a planner can do the legwork of who is available, match you with the best vendors based on your budget & style, answer all your questions (and trust me there will be many) and be there you every step of the way.
-Alexandra Jusino, Exquisite Designs (Chicago, IL)

The guy, the venue, the PLANNER even if it’s only day of, and your dress. In terms of stationery, you should have sent your save the dates or send them right now, hurry! It’s a good time to start thinking about the invitations and making sure you have figured out the logistics of the day including directions, parking, etc. so that your guests don’t have to fend for themselves or call you!
-Peggy Lambert, Erickson Design (Chicago, IL)

For a wedding that is 4-5 months away I would suggest having the venue, photographer/videographer, caterer, officiant, band/DJ, wedding attire, and florist secured. It might be wise to start looking at bakeries and invitations. Make sure to gather all addresses for when you are ready to send those invites out too. Since I am part of the Chicago Green Wedding Alliance, I am currently doing an informative planning timeline on our blog called “Yes! Now What?” check it out and happy planning!
-Carlene, Naturally Yours Events (Chicago, IL)

Lock down all your vendor contracts.  If you haven’t considered getting a planner, look now so that she/he can help with your day-of timeline to ensure that your special day goes off with out a hitch!
-Hazel Bourget, Blu Bungalow (San Francisco, CA)

At this point, you should be having fun!  All your wedding professionals should be booked.  You should be going to your first wedding gown fitting.  Having a fun time with your shower(s) and possibly your bachelorette party.  The next big push is two months out when invitations are sent and the detailed timeline is started.  Take a deep breath & enjoy!!!
-Claudia Antony Zompa, AS YOU WISH EVENTS (Chicago, IL)

The BEST “first-thing” to do is get a planner.  Regardless for day of or the whole shebang, a “good” planner will help you get the road map together AND assist in saving you money!  Every Bride & Groom should focus on booking their top budget items first: Venue, Catering and Decor.
-Jiwon McCartney, ALLURE Event & Meeting Productions (Chicago, IL & Atlanta, GA)

Congratulations on your engagement! The very first thing you should  have done before any planning, including setting a date and searching for a venue, is set your budget and guest list.  Your budget and guest count will then dictate the venue.  Once you have those key elements in place (and they are typically the hardest things to agree upon with your fiance and families — good practice for being married!) — you are off!

After your venue is booked, the top priorities are: wedding dress!!!, caterer (if not available at the venue), photographer (they book up incredibly fast), entertainment (band or DJ), and any hotel room blocks you need to reserve for out-of-town guests. You can also begin working on your save-the-dates, but make sure you have the hotel info first so you can include that with the StD.  Lastly, start meeting with florists and decor companies, as well as videographers, hair & makeup artists, transportation, etc.

Of course you can (and should!) interview and hire a planner while you are venue-hunting, or even beforehand so he or she can guide you through this process. If you don’t want to hire someone for “full planning,” it is a good idea to get them on board right after your date is solidified so they can begin working with you on all of the other elements.
-Beth Bernstein, SQN Events (Chicago, IL)

What party?

The Pinterest party.  Pinterest is quickly needing no introduction, but for the uninitiated, it’s the hottest new social networking site around and it lets you “pin” things of interest from around the internet to virtual “pinboards”, which can then be shared and perused by anyone.  It has beautiful design aesthetic, is simple to use and, perhaps most telling, has been getting the vaunted “I’m addicted” declaration from users across the globe (including the LunchDate planner crew).

Further, it’s value as a wedding planning tool is undeniable, since the visual nature of the site makes it perfect for discovering the latest fashion in dresses, cakes, flowers, and pretty much anything else you can think of that a planning couple may need to select or make a decision on.

To use the site you have to get an invite, which you can get from any current user.  And you can bet our LunchDate crew of wedding planners is all over Pinterest, so read what they have to say about it’s value for planning brides, ask them for an invite if you need, and check their boards out!

Do you use Pinterest?  If so, how do we find your pinboard?  Have any tips for brides to use Pinterest?

I use and love Pinterest.  I can be found at pinterest.com/stacie_tamaki/.  For brides my best tip would be to search for theme and color inspiration using key words + the word wedding the same way you would in any search engine.
-Stacie Tamaki, The Flirty Guide (San Jose, CA)

I do use Pinterest.  I mostly use Pinterest to form my ideas for putting a proposal together for a client.  It gives me a way to organize my thoughts so I can begin a proposal.  If a bride is using Pinterest for their wedding it helps me to see all the things that have caught her interest and it helps me see thru the client’s eyes exactly what they are looking at so I can put a proposal together for them.  I don’t really use it for myself besides to collect some pretty things (would love to see private boards but I know they are currently working on this) and inspiration for other clients.
-Alexandra Jusino, Exquisite Designs (Chicago, IL)

I love Pinterest, and have just started using it with clients to keep track of decor and other ideas for their weddings – it’s the perfect medium for doing this, as we can both pin photos to the same board and then access it from anywhere.  You can find me at pinterest.com/lowe_house/
-Elizabeth Clayton, Lowe House Events (Northern CA)

Pinterest is one of the smartest social media sites out there.  We have found it to be an amazing website to connect with not only brides but creative minded people that love to share and create seemingly endless inspiration boards.  From a marketing perspective it’s incredible and provides instant and free publicity.  For instance, we created a board titled, “Fancy NY Vintage Style Wedding Dresses”, for a very niche line of retro inspired dresses we sell.  By having this on Pinterest, it has doubled our sales of this line in a very short time.   The only downside is that it is a time eater, but then again, most guilty pleasures are!  Find us on Pinterest at pinterest.com/LeftBankJewelry/
-Susan Metropoulos, The Left Bank Jewelry & Finery (Chicago, IL)

I think Pinterest is a great way for a bride to show ME her taste and inspiration.  But as a designer I like coming up with new, original ideas.  It’s so easy to get caught up in the work of others… I want to be inspired by the bride and groom I’m working with and what they are passionate about.   Otherwise a bride can just walk in with12 photos of things she’s seen and say “copy this”.  That’s no fun!  Let’s collaborate and come up with something that hasn’t been done yet.
-Kim Oliff, Always RSVP Event Design and Coordination (SF Bay Area and Beyond)

I adore Pinterest. I find it inspiring, entertaining and useful (more than you can say about Facebook sometimes).  Pinterest replaces the ripped out magazine and printed computer pictures that brides carry in their binder by organizing it all in one space.  It also allows you to go back to access the original source of the picture easily-it is the perfect inspiration tool for the bride to be.  You can follow me at pinterest.com/RedLetterEvent.  Also, did you know there is a guy version as well?  gentlemint.com.
-Robyn Bruns, Red Letter Event Planning (Glenview, IL)

Photo Credit: Julia Franzosa

Of course! I have been a casual observer of Pinterest for far too long and now I am spending hours pinning along with everyone else (it is so addictive).  My tip for brides would be to look outside the wedding boards and check out things in the science, geek, or poster categories.  You never know where inspiration can come from.  You can find me at pinterest.com/nyeventschicago
-Carlene, Naturally Yours Events (Chicago, IL)

I use Pinterest.  I admit I may be addicted to it.  Find me at pinterest.com/nicole_zenner.  One tip for brides is to use Pinterest early in their planning process to help with the inspiration of their day.  I would then walk away so as not to distract from the vision of your day.  Pinterest can be a great tool to share with your photographer, florist, and stationery vendors (to name a few) to visualize your wishes.  However, it can become quickly overwhelming and cause indecision.  Indecision usually leads to more stress and overspending, all of which a bride does not need to experience.
-Nicole Zenner, Zen Events Chicago (Chicago, IL)

Pinterest is ADDICTIVE.  More so than Facebook & Twitter combined!  We love watching what our brides are putting together for their weddings.  They may be telling us one thing but then seeing the photo boards, we understand better what they REALLY want.  Go pin it!
-Claudia Antony Zompa, AS YOU WISH EVENTS (Chicago, IL)

Yes, I’m a Pinterest addict!  I’ve been using it for a little over 4 months and have created 50 boards and almost 2700 pins!  Yep…addicted.  I can be found at pinterest.com/DejanaeEvents and I created boards that are not only inspiring to me, but to stimulate those that follow me with some gorgeous wedding day ideas.  I also create boards specific to my planning clients to assist in the designing of their wedding or event.  The main tip I have for a bride using Pinterest…go crazy inside this stress-free community!  Make two boards for your wedding planning.  One for your actual budget and another for your DREAM wedding day with an unlimited budget.
-Desiree Dent, Dejanae Events (Chicago, IL)

I love Pinterest!  Pinterest is a great online pinboard. Instead of printing off pictures, or saving them to your computer, you see you can simply “pin” them onto a board on Pinterest and collect all sorts of ideas.  To find me on Pinterest, go to pinterest.com/misse.  Pinterest makes it very easy to follow other boards that interest you and include ideas or images that you like.  Not only that, but other boards that are full of wedding ideas are labeled under “Wedding and Events” to make browsing much simpler.   As other people are browsing and pinning,  you see each new image.  It’s a constant news feed of ideas!
-Misse Daniel, Honey Bee Weddings (Chicago, IL)

Estera Events adores Pinterest and we use it obsessively for inspiration!  Whether we’re collecting images that will help form a style board for an event or a wedding or pinning ideas for home décor, fashion and recipes – it has quickly become a very valuable resource.  We also urge all of our brides to use Pinterest so that we can get a better idea of their style and aesthetic, which in turns allows us to define a clear direction for their wedding. You can find our carefully curated pin boards by searching for Hilary Schwartz, Andrea Adame and Bianca Favia.
-Hillary Schwartz, Estera Events (Chicago, IL)

What do you think?  Do you use Pinterest and have tips for using it as a wedding planning tool?  Enter it in the comments.

Do you have a question you’d like posed to the LunchDate crew so you can see your question answered on our blog? Submit it HERE.

Are you a wedding planner/consultant and want to be included on Foodie Registry’s weekly LunchDate blog feature in the future? Submit your info HERE.

Ask anyone you know if they have restaurants that are “on their list” to go to sometime in their life and everyone can at least name one (many people have dozens).  This is their restaurant bucket list.

Our business Foodie Registry is itself a restaurant bucket list of sorts – it lets a couple share a list of restaurants they would love to dine at with their friends.  But, as a registry, our service is mostly limited to etiquette appropriate gift giving occasions like weddings and baby showers.  But we received a lot of feedback from non-wedding and non-baby people that they’d like to make a list of restaurants they want to dine at as well.

So we built a Facebook app called Restaurant Bucket List, which just launched on a limited basis last week.

Restaurant Bucket List a fun, simple, and social way to keep track of and share all of the restaurants that are “on your list”, and to see the same for your friends.  Give it a try and let me know what you think!

But, it got us thinking, we work with a highly cultured and informed bunch of tastemakers on these LunchDate posts, so we wondered…

What’s on your restaurant bucket list?

Next – at the tippy top for my Chicago dining.
The new Graham Elliot Bistro, in 2012.
Daniel in NY, this December.
Chez Panisse and French Laundry, next trip to SF/Napa.
-Debi Lilly, A Perfect Event (Chicago, IL)

Photo: Wedinator

As you might guess from a wedding registry that helps couples receive food as wedding gifts, we love to eat.

Like, really love to eat.  Especially around the holidays.  And who doesn’t, right?  The span of Thanksgiving to New Years typically involves some of the best, heartiest meals you’ll have all year, enjoyed with family and friends and rosy cheeks.

But for those who are currently watching what they eat in anticipation of a post-New Years wedding, especially one that will occur earlier in the year, the holidays present temptation after temptation that may not always jive with a healthy eating plan.  Should you worry?  Should you go without over the holidays?  Our LunchDate crew of planners has some great level-headed advice on how to navigate the holidays and keep things in perspective.

The holidays can be dangerous for any dieter, but particularly so for those dieting for Winter or Spring weddings.  What sort of things can planning brides do to stay active over the holidays and stay fit?

Glass of wine.  Glass of water.  Glass of wine.  Glass of water.  Keeps you hydrated, fills you up and lowers the amount of empty calories you are consuming from your adult beverage of choice.  Best of all… no hangover!!!
-Claudia Antony Zompa, AS YOU WISH EVENTS (Chicago, IL)

Honestly? Don’t worry about it too much. If you already have your wedding dress, you probably do want to make sure you don’t gain so much weight that it doesn’t fit you anymore, but hopefully you bought it in your actual size and not a smaller size that you’re hoping to fit into by the wedding. You’ll be beautiful on your wedding day because there’s nothing more beautiful than a truly happy person; dress size has very little to do with it.
-Elizabeth Clayton, Lowe House Events (Northern CA) 

Partnering up with your fiance with your workouts! Be creative like partner squats or using your partner as a bench for tricep dips. Not only are you involving each other, but you are motivating each other to stay fit. The bride can also have a wellness outing with the bridal party, which includes a fun group class (such as a barre class), mani-pedi and capped off with an afternoon tea.
-Suzanne Ko, SKo-Fit (Chicago, IL)

The most important thing is portion control.  Don’t try to avoid your favorites, but limit your indulgence to a couple bites. Always make sure to eat a lot of green vegetables, skip salad dressings in favor of good olive oil and a squeeze of lemon. Pass on the rolls. And skip eggnog and other holiday cocktails in favor of a couple glasses of wine. If you do overindulge, don’t despair. Just pick up with your routine of diet and exercise the next day. All is not lost!
-Tatiana Abramova, theBrideScoop.com (Chicago, IL)

The Holidays are an AWESOME time to commit to a 2-4 week dancing class!  This is ALLURE’s #1 recommendation anytime but particularly the Holidays are when most time is available in the year, this is always a great trick to pull out on the dance floor at any party or club and a fun way to learn to work together to achieve a goal.  What more can you ask as a couple?
-Jiwon McCartney, ALLURE Event and Meeting Productions (Chicago & Atlanta)

Before you embark on a crash diet before your wedding, remember that your fiance loves you for who you are! Don’t feel pressured to lose weight just so you can look “perfect” on your wedding day. I was recently at a conference at which Randy Fenoli of “Say Yes to the Dress” spoke passionately about the importance of embracing who you are and that ALL brides are beautiful! His new book, “It’s All About the Dress,” has wonderful tips on finding the right dress for you as well as inspirational words of wisdom about feeling and looking your best on your wedding day. That said, it is important for every woman to be healthy and fit no matter if they are single, engaged, married, etc. Staying healthy is a gift you give yourself. Some fun things you can do in the Winter to stay fit are ice skating, skiing, and even shoveling snow. And guess what. You CAN enjoy treats during the holidays. Don’t deprive yourself — it will only make you grumpy and annoyed. And that does not make for a happy bride.
-Beth Bernstein, SQN Events (Chicago, IL)

Photo: futureupdate.wordpress.com

I read the Steve Jobs biography, which in addition to giving me a newfound respect for hyper-aggressive management techniques, also reaffirmed my belief in technology’s ability to improve our lives.  And I’m not only referring to the ability to breathlessly follow celebrity antics or the genius that is fart apps on the iPhone, but like real, useful stuff.

Technology can help make your wedding better, for example.  And we figured no one has better tips for wedding related websites and apps than the planners and experts we know and love (and repeatedly probe for their expertise on this blog).  Here is a sampling of their top tech tips for brides.

What websites and/or apps do you find most useful to couples planning their wedding?

If I were a bride my favorite inspiration site would be Pinterest, a bulletin board site where users “pin” favorite photos from around the web. It’s a great resource for unique event and design ideas.
-Stacie Tamaki, The Flirty Guide (San Jose, CA)

I’m a big fan of using Google Docs for all document creation – timelines, contact lists, budgets, etc. Everyone involved can see and edit in real time, meaning no more endless email attachments to keep track of, and you can always be sure you’re looking at the most updated version of something.
-Elizabeth Clayton, Lowe House Events (Northern CA) 

One of the leading floral designers of Northern California (Nancy Liu Chin) created an amazing iPhone/iPad App to help with floral pieces for brides and even planners.  This app provides advice on how to pick a designer, cost saving tips, and more.
-Hazel Bourget, Blu Bungalow (San Francisco, CA)

I love Pinterest.com and the Pinterest app.  It is a great place to put all of the pictures you like on the web in one place.  You can create boards for each wedding element-dresses, flowers, tablescapes, stationery, etc.  The best part is you can share the board with others either via invites or print copies so your bridesmaids, wedding planner, florist can see what you like decor and style wise.  It is free to join and a great resource for all things creative.  As a wedding planner I use it to get inspired and assist my clients with their vision.  You can follow me here!
-Robyn Bruns, Red Letter Event Planning (Glenview, IL)

I am biased as the Editor-in-Chief but I love what we are doing on theBrideScoop.com!  It is an amazing collaboration of wedding professionals from all over the world sharing our experience with brides mulitple times a day. Our writers cover everything from celebrity weddings to food to bling to fitness to same-sex civil unions and everything in between.
-Claudia Antony Zompa, AS YOU WISH EVENTS (Chicago, IL)

There are a tremendous amount of apps and tools for brides.  But most brides are not sure what they need to look for it.  ALLURE sends brides to a few sites to extract what we need from them to plan.  The Wedding Wire Seating Chart and Emily Post on Line are two of our favorites.  And though there are many dress size guides, we find Serendipity does a great job.  These site help us help our brides!
-Jiwon McCartney, ALLURE Event & Meeting Productions (Chicago, IL)

I always send clients to weddingwire.com. It’s a great resource for couples offering free wedding websites and a ton of planning tools, including guest list, seating charts, budgets and timelines. They even have a mobile app so you can check wedding stuff on the go.  I find that using this website in conjunction with the personalized planning that we provide helps make the process smooth, fun and easy for everyone.
-Heather Lynne Vickery, Greatest Expectations Special Events & Weddings, Inc. (Chicago, IL)

What do you think?  Have a favorite wedding website or app?  Enter it in the comments.

In my personal experience (literally, me personally), guys are not always the amazing gift givers our more emotionally sensitive and thoughtful female counterparts are.  But, when it comes to your groomsmen, you have to step up your game!  These guys not only have your back and walk grandma to her seat on your day, but it’s quite likely they’ve given significant time and money to help you celebrate your marriage.  The perfect gift can not only say thanks from the bottom of your heart, but can also serve as a great bribe to make absolutely sure those bachelor party phone pics are erased…

Photo credit: David Leggett (Flickr)

We found one guy who gave his groomsmen each one square inch of land.  Interesting…but not what we’re looking for.  So, we did the best thing we know to do – we took it to the experts, our LunchDate crew.  We have a special guest this week too!  There is no better site for guys getting married than The Man Registry, and we welcome Chris Easter, co-founder of The Man Registry, to LunchDate this week.

What is the best groomsman gift you’ve seen lately?

STEAKS!! Whether your groomsmen is a grill guy or just has great appreciation for great steaks.  Companies like MyChicagoSteak.com and OmahaSteaks.com offer delivery and gift wrapping!
-Lauren Le Pine Housley, Ryan Alexander Events, Inc. (Chicago, IL)

We recently had a groom that custom designed Converse Chuck Taylor’s for each of his groomsmen.   These shoes are recognized around the world as a symbol of originality and self-expression and this very creative groom designed each one different for each of his friends’ unique personality.  Design your own pair at www.converse.com.
-Susan Metropoulos, The Left Bank Jewelry & Bridal Finery (Chicago, IL)

Photo Credit: Ethically Engineered

I love the shaving kit from Ethically Engineered!  The kit comes with organic/toxic free shaving cream, a neat razor, and a vegan shaving brush.  The whole kit comes in a re-purposed box made out of the beams from old Chicago buildings.
-Carlene Smith, Naturally Yours Events (Chicago, IL)

Monogrammed BBQ tools  - the perfect gift.  What guy doesn’t like the whole bbq thing?  Plus it shows that little extra effort you put into the gift with the monogram.
-Cindy Shanholtz, Effortless Events (Chicago, IL)

Before you give a gift, consider the recipient.  Each groomsmen doesn’t have to receive the same exact gift.  If you do decide to give the same gift and it’s a watch, flask or bar-b-que set don’t put your wedding date on the item, instead monogram it with the groomsmen’s initials.  One of the best gifts I’ve seen was from a huge Chicago Bears fan: he gave his groomsmen jerseys with their names printed on the back, so whenever they get together to watch a game they all have proper attire.
-Robyn Bruns, Red Letter Event Planning (Glenview, IL)

We’ve come across a plethora of creative groomsmen gift ideas this year. By far, our favorite is the Bluegrass Bourbon Barrel.  This 2 liter home bourbon aging kit allows you to creative a custom blend of bourbon (or rum/wine) from the comfort of your own home.  The front of the barrel can be engraved for an added touch of personalization.
-Chris Easter, The Man Registry (Everywhere!)

You should give a gift that the recipient would like to receive, NOT a gift that you are making them wear or use in your wedding.  I LOVE The Man Registry!  They have traditional groomsmen gift items – cuff links, money clasp or flask – but what I really love is all the quirky items that a guy would really want (if he could be honest!).  How about a remote control cooler or Bark4Beer (bottle opener dog collar) or an all-in-one egg muffin maker?  Now we are talkin’ REAL AWESOME groomsmen gifts!!!
-Claudia Antony Zompa, AS YOU WISH EVENTS (Chicago, IL)

We’ve been seeing a lot of footwear, actually.  ”Crazy Socks” in a variety of colors & patterns and Converse sneakers both seem to be big right now.  While these are fun, and they are something the groom (or bride) often wants the guys to wear for the wedding day, they’re not as personal as we think a groomsmen gift should be.  Throw out the playbook.  You do not need to get every guy the same thing. Tap into your friends’ interests and get them something they would really like, rather than something you like.  The Man Registry and Groomsmen Gift have great products online for every type of guy.
-Beth Bernstein, SQN Events (Chicago, IL)

Engraved flasks are the most overdone men’s gift, in my humble opinion.  The most original groomsmen gift I’ve seen recently was actually given by the bride!  She gave her fiancee’s attendants comfortable shoes (Vans) to wear at the reception.  They were styled with a skull and cross bones to match the rock-n-roll theme of the reception.  You can customize your own at Vans.com.
-Tatiana Abramova, theBrideScoop.com (Chicago, IL)

We’ve been doing customized labels on a nice bottle of booze for each groomsman.  Pair that with a classic flask or set of tumblers and you’ve got a great gift and keepsake.  Just don’t give it to them right before the ceremony or they might not make it down the aisle!
-Kim Oliff, Always RSVP Event Design and Coordination (SF Bay Area and Beyond)

My favorite gifts for the groomsmen are always those that are personal, thoughtful and reflect the groom’s style and hobbies.  Recently for a Napa wedding, we custom designed cases of small batch wines for each groomsmen, and paired each bottle with a dinner party menu handwritten onto menu cards.
-Debi Lilly, A Perfect Event (Chicago, IL)

Photo: Snopes.com

This one’s for the bros!

No small amount of ink gets spilled every year breathlessly covering the latest in ladies wedding fashions, but what about the fellas?!  While the classic black tuxedo never goes out of style, it’s not the only option for the modern suave groom.  Let’s have a roundup of advice from our panel of wedding experts, the LunchDate crew.

One tip that is ALWAYS in effect though: your wedding attire must have sleeves.

What do you see as the newest trends in men’s wedding attire?

Custom suits for the groom and his men.  Seems to be a growing trend amongst my clients and I couldn’t be happier!  Nothing like an impeccably dressed wedding party!
-Isabella Sikaffy, Florabella (Menlo Park, CA)

Grooms have decided that since their brides are spending so much money and time and energy on their attire, they should also make a commitment to looking awesome for the day!  Grooms are purchasing their tuxedos instead of renting them.  We also like white bow tie to distinguish them from their groomsmen.  And a different boutonnière!
-Claudia Antony Zompa, AS YOU WISH EVENTS (Chicago, IL)

1. Charcoal is the new black.
2. Custom ties!  Use (if appropriate) extra fabric from the brides’ dress to make a coordinating tie for your tux.
3. Post ceremony wardrobe change.  So many brides are changing out of their formal dress into something more fun and festive, guys should follow suit (pun intended), lose the tux later in the night and change into something that reflects your personality.  Loosen up and have fun!!
-Kim Oliff, Always RSVP Event Design and Coordination (SF Bay Area and Beyond)

I personally always recommend that grooms go classic and buy a really great suit and have it tailored to fit them perfectly. Unlike a wedding dress, which tends to be a single-wear garment, a good suit can last a man a decade or more, making it a smart investment.
-Elizabeth Clayton, Lowe House Events (Northern CA)

The trend I love in men’s wedding fashion is when the groom uses out of the box accessorizing.  Ties don’t have to be colorless, patternless and boring.  Instead the groom can express himself with a tie that is fashion forward and looks great in pictures!  Boutonniere’s don’t have to be flowers, they can be as beautiful and unique as the bride’s bouquet. I love textural elements like branches, leaves, berries and even ribbon to create a one of a kind design for the groom.
-Robyn Bruns, Red Letter Event Planning (Glenview, IL)

The last trendy wave was the cute vintage-esque custom ties and socks.  The classic clean look is making a come back, but still with the custom look.  Ties like these are memorable pieces that can be used again without looking like an old “trend”.
-Hazel Bourget, Blu Bungalow (San Francisco, CA)
 

Photo: Carasco Photo

We love this question!  Especially since we hosted our first event for grooms last night!  We had representation from two great and stylish shops for men, Haberdash and Nicholas Joseph Custom Suits.  Haberdash is the perfect place for guys to go to get all of the latest fashion in menswear to impress the in-laws and guests at showers and the rehearsal dinner.  And for looking dapper on your wedding day, grooms must check out Nicholas Joseph.  A custom suit is a smart investment as you can wear it for years to other special events — you can switch up the look with different shirts and ties and still keep your wedding attire special.  In general grooms, we see are seeing many more suits than tuxes for weddings these days.  Even for black-tie events. Guys feel more like themselves in a sharp suit versus a tux, which can still remind them of their junior prom (sometimes not always a good memory).
-Beth Bernstein, SQN Events (Chicago, IL)

 
What do you think?  Have some thoughts on how dudes can stay dapper?  Enter it in the comments.

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Photo credit: Newtown Graffiti (via Flickr)

Halloween falls on a Monday this year, which means the Friday and Saturday nights just before bring the time honored tradition of making mundane and totally not sexy outfits sexy.  But there will definitely be quite a few trick or treaters wearing the sexiest costume of all – bride.  As in, real bride.

Holiday weekend weddings are loved by some (for removing plan-making uncertainty), hated by others (for taking guests away from non-wedding festivities), but regardless of your take, if you have a wedding on a holiday like Halloween, you might consider giving a nod to the occasion.  It’s fun, and it’ll satisfy the haters that they’re getting their Halloween fill (although, as you’ll see, there are lots of viewpoints here!).

For figuring out some good tips for a Halloween wedding, we went to the pros.

Do you have any weddings on Halloween weekend?  If so (and even if not but you have ideas), how if at all is the couple working Halloween in?

A “trick or treat” candy buffet with the bride & groom’s favorite Halloween treats is a great way to incorporate the holiday without it taking over the entire wedding day.  Also, telling friends to bring costumes to change into late night, maybe even having your bridal party “re-enter” the party to Michael Jackon’s ‘Thriller’ is a fun way to incorporate the holiday into your special day!  If you chose this weekend, have fun with it!
-Marcia Hemphill & Ellen Donaghy, An Urban Affair (Chicago, IL)

Photo credit: TheKnot.com

Ok, Halloween has a lot of great traditions to it, but my favorite is all the candy!  I love couples that choose a Halloween wedding and incorporate all the amazing goodies that go with it.  Have fun and use cauldrons to hold all the candy, scoop them out with skeleton hands, and take them home in a mini burlap sac with the couples wedding date painted in red.
-Carlene Smith, Naturally Yours Events (Chicago, IL)

Not this year!  I have done rehearsal dinners in the past on Halloween and that has been a great time to play up the holiday but most of my brides tend to be more traditional for the wedding day itself and opt to book around the holiday.  So many fun ideas to play with, though.  We did a fabulous dessert/candy buffet for a rehearsal dinner and everyone had a great time with the wax fangs!  Great time to embrace the holiday…
-Isabella Sikaffy, Florabella (Menlo Park, CA)

I once met a bride who was having a Halloween wedding and instead of rings she and her fiance got pumpkin tattoos on their ring fingers!
-Stacie Tamaki, The Flirty Guide (San Jose, CA)

Most couples are not interested in getting married on Halloween but we did have an amazing couple a few years ago!  They did a vintage 1920s themed wedding.  The bride wore a purple velvet gown with a beehive updo.  The groom wore a velvet smoking jacket.  Some of the best photos were taken at Graceland Cemetery!!!
-Claudia Antony Zompa, AS YOU WISH EVENTS (Chicago, IL)

Nothing says Halloween like CANDY-and sweets bars are big at weddings right now.  Use custom labeled plain brown kraft paper trick or treat bags – this question was so fun I even mocked up a label!  For the candy bar itself I see mini popcorn balls, mini candy bars and custom made ghost and spider cake balls.  The décor would have black spider web over orange colored linen, and creepy black candles in candelabras.  The jars holding the candy would be skullheads, witches caldrons and pumpkin heads.  I LOVE Halloween  and have not had the pleasure of a Halloween themed wedding client yet but when I do I will be FULL of ideas!
-Robyn Bruns, Red Letter Event Planning (Glenview, IL)

It can be as simple as pumpkins/skulls & crossbones as centerpieces or just incorporating white/orange/black as wedding colors.  Involve your guests and ask them to wear costumes in corresponding colors!  Spook up your ceremony by adding coffins, spider webs on the alter and pews, and old candles as accents.  Black Roses (really, really dark red ones) and white spider mums make eerie, yet provacative bouquets!
-Monica Sehgal Sharma, Allure Event and Meeting Productions (Chicago & Atlanta)

Photo credit: Best Blooms Auckland Florist

We do not have a wedding this Halloween weekend.  In fact, a couple we worked with this year actually refused to consider the weekend for their wedding because they felt like they would have had to incorporate some sort of Halloween decor and did not want to.  I happen to agree with them.  I personally don’t like “theme” weddings.  A clear vision, yes.  A “theme,” no.  I would treat it like any other Fall wedding and use the beautiful Autumn palette that Mother Nature provides for inspiration.  I also like the idea of using some foliage and/or seasonal fruit to add interest and texture to the floral arrangements and bouquets.  But turning your wedding into a grown-up Halloween party is just not my thing.  If you want a costume party, have one!  Just not on your wedding day
-Beth Bernstein, SQN Events (Chicago, IL)