October 16

Photo credit: 

Kylee Yee Photographer

Tip of the Day: Tradition is always changing so don't feel like you have to stick to what worked for your mom or friends. "Couples are making their weddings a symbol of their new values and dreams by changing things that have long since been part of the day," says Ngoc Nguyen Lay of Skybox Event Productions. Focus on creating a day that reflects what's most important to you both.

Plus, check out Fascinating Wedding Traditions From Around the World.

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25 Casual Wedding Ideas for Relaxed Brides

You want your wedding to be the kind of place where all of your guests can feel comfortable to come as they are. But don't be fooled into thinking a laid-back affair doesn't require any planning. Here, some of our favorite ideas for a casual wedding.

By: Kristen Klein

Enter Slideshow
  • Attire

    Attire

    "No shoes, no shirt, no service" doesn't apply here. 

  • The Bar

    The Bar

    A keg on display feels a little too "frat party" for even the most casual of weddings, but you can easily build a bar to disguise your keg.

    Photo Credit: Details of I Do

  • Reception Seating

    Reception Seating

    Keep it even more casual by foregoing the chairs and having a real picnic dinner.

    Photo Credit: We Are Scout

  • Sendoffs & Exits

    Sendoffs & Exits

    Have your guests toss paper airplanes as you make your exit.

  • Reception Ideas

    Reception Ideas

    Set the stage for your wedding band or DJ with tie dye tapestries.

  • Reception Seating

    Reception Seating

    Getting married in a park? A simple runner over a picnic table elevates it to wedding-ready.

    Photo Credit: Moonbelle Photography

  • Centerpieces

    Centerpieces

    Repurpose beer bottles as a chic and simple DIY centerpiece.

  • Cocktail Hour

    Cocktail Hour

    Let your guests kick back during the cocktail hour on oversized pillows and lounge chairs.

    Photo Credit: Honeylane

  • Reception Seating

    Reception Seating

    Position your picnic tables in a curved line for a fun, whimsical vibe.

  • Reception Ideas

    Reception Ideas

    Encourage your guests to kick off their heels by providing flip flops for all.

  • The Bar

    The Bar

    A canoe filled with ice is a decorative and relaxed way to keep beer cold.

    Photo Credit: Millie Holloman

  • Ceremony Entrance

    Ceremony Entrance

    Ride into your ceremony on a pickup truck.

  • Desserts

    Desserts

    Skip the cake in favor of individual brownies.

    Photo Credit: Piece of Cake

  • Attire

    Attire

    Dress up a pair of Converse sneakers with tulle laces.

    Photo Credit: Bridelle

  • Cocktail Hour

    Cocktail Hour

    Transform bales of hay into a comfortable seating option with blankets and pillows.

    Photo Credit: Kacie Lynch

  • Desserts

    Desserts

    Keep it simple with a one-tier cake.

  • Centerpieces

    Centerpieces

    Spray paint aluminum cans in various sizes and fill with simple white flowers.

    Photo Credit: Edit Design House

  • Toast

    Toast

    Skip the pricey champagne toast in favor of your favorite brew.

  • On the Menu

    On the Menu

    Having a buffet? Skip the fancy serving dishes and focus on functionality; we promise your guests won't notice.

  • Reception Ideas

    Reception Ideas

    These cute cutlery caddies are perfect for a picnic wedding.

    Photo Credit: Think Garnish

  • Reception Ideas

    Reception Ideas

    Provide custom coloring books for kids of all ages to enjoy.

  • The Bar

    The Bar

    A self-serve drink station with mason jar glasses works beautifully at an outdoor wedding.

    Photo Credit: Justin & Mary

  • Bonfire

    Bonfire

    The perfect end to a relaxed wedding is a backyard bonfire. Don't forget the s'mores!

  • On the Menu

    On the Menu

    Give 'em what they really want — pizza!

  • Sendoffs & Exits

    Sendoffs & Exits

    Exit your casual fête in a wheelbarrow.

25 Casual Wedding Ideas for Relaxed Brides

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October 13

Photo credit: 

Pasha Belman Photography

Tip of the Day: As part of the big day planning, don't forget that your smile is just as important as the makeup. "Start by looking at your smile in recent photos to decide if you would like to see an improvement for your wedding photos, then make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible," says Nancy C. Aft, DDS of ProDent NY. From there, your dentist can help you achieve the perfect smile, from something as easy as using over-the-counter whitening strips to more involved processes, like straightening your teeth with braces or Invisalign, or getting veneers.

Plus, check out 90+ Stunning Ideas for Your Wedding Makeup.

October 12

Photo credit: 

Courtesy of Tourism Ireland

Tip of the Day: Looking for a honeymoon with culture, country and easy access to beautiful cities as well? It might not include tropical weather, but a honeymoon in the UK or other parts of Europe are an opportunity to combine beautiful locations, excellent hospitality, gorgeous beaches and a chance to really unwind says the Good Hotel Guide team. Places like Cliveden House offers scandalous political intrigue, Pentillie Castle has a fairytale setting or The Cavendish, which is on the grounds of the Chatsworth Estate and owned by the Duke of Devonshire. You'll get a chance to really experience something new as a couple.

Plus, check out more European honeymoon destinations.

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50 Breathtaking Gowns With Illusion Details

See some of our favorite wedding gowns that feature delicate lace overlays, off-the-shoulder silhouettes, and illusion detailing, creating the perfect mix of sexy and sophisticated. 

By: Kaitlyn Russell

Enter Slideshow
  • Galia Lahav Sheer Neckline

    Galia Lahav Sheer Neckline

    Wedding gown by Galia Lahav.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Justin Alexander Barely There Sleeves

    Justin Alexander Barely There Sleeves

    Wedding gown by Justin Alexander.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Justin Alexander Deep V Jumpsuit

    Justin Alexander Deep V Jumpsuit

    Wedding gown by Justin Alexander.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Marchesa Floral Illusion Gown

    Marchesa Floral Illusion Gown

    Wedding gown by Marchesa.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Galia Lahav Cap Sleeves

    Galia Lahav Cap Sleeves

    Wedding gown by Galia Lahav.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Galia Lahav Illusion Sleeve and Skirt

    Galia Lahav Illusion Sleeve and Skirt

    Wedding gown by Galia Lahav.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Naeem Khan Illusion Bodice

    Naeem Khan Illusion Bodice

    Wedding gown by Naeem Khan.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Rosa Clará Ballgown With Lace Sleeves

    Rosa Clará Ballgown With Lace Sleeves

    Wedding gown by Rosa Clará.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Pronovias Illusion Sparkle Gown

    Pronovias Illusion Sparkle Gown

    Wedding gown by Pronovias.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Rosa Clará Illusion Bodice

    Rosa Clará Illusion Bodice

    Wedding gown by Rosa Clará.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Rosa Clará Bell Sleeve Gown

    Rosa Clará Bell Sleeve Gown

    Wedding gown by Rosa Clará.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Pronovias Feathered Illusion Gown

    Pronovias Feathered Illusion Gown

    Wedding gown by Pronovias.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Oleg Cassini High Neck Gown

    Oleg Cassini High Neck Gown

    Wedding gown by Oleg Cassini.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Marchesa Illusion Lace Sleeves

    Marchesa Illusion Lace Sleeves

    Wedding gown by Marchesa.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Anne Barge Sheer Neckline

    Anne Barge Sheer Neckline

    Wedding gown by Anne Barge.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Reem Acra Full Illusion Bodice

    Reem Acra Full Illusion Bodice

    Wedding gown by Reem Acra.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Naeem Khan Pantsuit

    Naeem Khan Pantsuit

    Wedding gown by Naeem Khan.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Reem Acra Gold Overlay

    Reem Acra Gold Overlay

    Wedding gown by Reem Acra.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Romona Keveza V-Neck Gown

    Romona Keveza V-Neck Gown

    Wedding gown by Romona Keveza

    Courtesy of designer

  • Romona Keveza Floral Back Gown

    Romona Keveza Floral Back Gown

    Wedding gown by Romona Keveza

    Courtesy of designer

  • KittyChen Couture Illusion Sleeves

    KittyChen Couture Illusion Sleeves

    Wedding gown by KittyChen Couture.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Morilee Off The Shoulder Gown

    Morilee Off The Shoulder Gown

    Wedding gown by Morilee by Madeline Gardner.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Morilee Off The Shoulder Gown

    Morilee Off The Shoulder Gown

    Wedding gown by Morilee by Madeline Gardner.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Morilee High Neck Gown

    Morilee High Neck Gown

    Wedding gown by Morilee by Madeline Gardner.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Pronovias Floral Illusion Bodice

    Pronovias Floral Illusion Bodice

    Wedding gown by Pronovias.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Justin Alexander A Line Gown

    Justin Alexander A Line Gown

    Wedding gown by Justin Alexander.

    Photo courtesy of designer

  • KittyChen Couture Lace Sleeves

    KittyChen Couture Lace Sleeves

    Wedding gown by KittyChen Couture.

    Courtesy of designer

  • KittyChen Couture Sheer Lace

    KittyChen Couture Sheer Lace

    Wedding gown by KittyChen Couture.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Pronovias One Shoulder Gown

    Pronovias One Shoulder Gown

    Wedding gown by Pronovias.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Berta Illusion Bodice

    Berta Illusion Bodice

    Wedding gown by Berta.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Berta Illusion Back Detail

    Berta Illusion Back Detail

    Wedding gown by Berta.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Casablanca Bridal Removable Skirt

    Casablanca Bridal Removable Skirt

    Wedding gown by Casablanca Bridal

    Courtesy of designer

  • Casablanca Bridal Jeweled Sleeves

    Casablanca Bridal Jeweled Sleeves

    Wedding gown by Casablanca Bridal

    Courtesy of designer

  • Casablanca Bridal Sheer Lace Overlay

    Casablanca Bridal Sheer Lace Overlay

    Wedding gown by Casablanca Bridal

    Courtesy of designer

  • Calla Blanche Illusion Back

    Calla Blanche Illusion Back

    Wedding gown by Calla Blanche.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Calla Blanche Illusion Lace Sleeve

    Calla Blanche Illusion Lace Sleeve

    Wedding gown by Calla Blanche.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Calla Blanche Deep V Gown

    Calla Blanche Deep V Gown

    Wedding gown by Calla Blanche.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Eve Of Milady Bridals Lace Train

    Eve Of Milady Bridals Lace Train

    Wedding gown by Eve of Milady Bridals.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Eve Of Milady Bridals Sheer Bodice

    Eve Of Milady Bridals Sheer Bodice

    Wedding gown by Eve of Milady Bridals.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Maggie Sottero Open Back

    Maggie Sottero Open Back

    Wedding gown by Maggie Sottero

    Courtesy of designer

  • Eve Of Milady Illusion Corset

    Eve Of Milady Illusion Corset

    Wedding gown by Eve of Milady Bridals.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Calla Blanche Sheer Lace Overlay

    Calla Blanche Sheer Lace Overlay

    Wedding gown by Calla Blanche.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Allison Webb Sweetheart Neckline

    Allison Webb Sweetheart Neckline

    Wedding gown by Allison Webb.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Hayley Paige Blue Lace Overlay

    Hayley Paige Blue Lace Overlay

    Wedding gown by Hayley Paige.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Lazaro Gold Ballgown

    Lazaro Gold Ballgown

    Wedding gown by Lazaro.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Moonlight Bridal Illusion Racer Back

    Moonlight Bridal Illusion Racer Back

    Wedding gown by Moonlight Bridal.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Amsale Floral Appliques

    Amsale Floral Appliques

    Wedding gown by Amsale.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Theia Couture High Neck

    Theia Couture High Neck

    Wedding gown by Theia Couture.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Theia Couture Sheer Bodice

    Theia Couture Sheer Bodice

    Wedding gown by Theia Couture.

    Courtesy of designer

  • Claire Pettibone Couture Bridal Sheer Overlay

    Claire Pettibone Couture Bridal Sheer Overlay

    Courtesy of designer

  • Ashley & Justin Bride Illusion Neckline

    Ashley & Justin Bride Illusion Neckline

    Wedding gown by Ashley & Justin Bride

    Photo courtesy of designer

  • Cristiano Lucci Illusion Bodice

    Cristiano Lucci Illusion Bodice

    Wedding gown by Cristiano Lucci.

    Photo courtesy of designer

50 Breathtaking Gowns With Illusion Details

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October 11

Photo credit: 

Tanja Lippert Photography

Tip of the Day: Ask your wedding coordinator or maid of honor to pull you and your new spouse away from the reception for a few minutes to take everything in. "Use this time to stand back and behold the community of love you've created together," says Cat Greenleaf, owner of The Catskill Mountain House. "As a couple, these reflections will be the ones you remember the longest when looking back at your big day."

Plus check out 30+ Romantic Ideas for Your Wedding.

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