<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<rss version="2.0"
	xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
	xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/"
	xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
	xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"
	xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/"
	xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/"
	>

<channel>
	<title>Wedding Questions &#187; Boutonnieres</title>
	<atom:link href="http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/category/boutonnieres/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions</link>
	<description></description>
	<lastBuildDate>Sat, 20 Nov 2010 01:40:11 +0000</lastBuildDate>
	<language>en</language>
	<sy:updatePeriod>hourly</sy:updatePeriod>
	<sy:updateFrequency>1</sy:updateFrequency>
	<generator>http://wordpress.org/?v=3.0</generator>
<xhtml:meta xmlns:xhtml="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" name="robots" content="noindex" />
		<item>
		<title>Do It Yourself Wedding Flowers &amp; DIY Wedding Boutonnieres</title>
		<link>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/do-it-yourself-wedding-flowers-diy-wedding-boutineers/</link>
		<comments>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/do-it-yourself-wedding-flowers-diy-wedding-boutineers/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 04 May 2010 09:10:17 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Boutonnieres]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[boutineers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DIY]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DoItYourself]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[flowers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[WEDDING]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/do-it-yourself-wedding-flowers-diy-wedding-boutineers/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Low cost DIY Wedding Flowers can be romantic and jaw dropping beautiful while being nicely low cost to Do It Yourself! Aside from the difficulties of designing and purchasing the correct flowers, you also have to know how to keep flowers fresh. If you are craft-inclined and want to add a handcrafted touch, try making [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="overDiv" style="position:absolute; visibility:hidden; z-index:1000;"></div><p>Low cost DIY Wedding Flowers can be romantic and jaw dropping beautiful while being nicely low cost to Do It Yourself!</p>
<p>Aside from the difficulties of designing and purchasing the correct flowers, you also have to know how to keep flowers fresh.</p>
<p>If you are craft-inclined and want to add a handcrafted touch, try making the groom&#8217;s boutonniere. We suggest using a hardy flower with a big head such as a rose or miniature calla lily; they can survive being handled. You can make a boutonniere the day before the wedding, and be sure to get extra flowers for practice.</p>
<p>Here are just a few tips to help you with your decision of making and designing your own wedding bouquets and boutonnieres:</p>
<ul>
<li>If you are not an expert, consider taking a flower arranging course. Even the simplest of arrangements can be tricky and you will learn key essentials on how to cut, arrange and preserve your chosen flowers.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Study magazines and online flower websites for ideas on which flowers to choose, what is in season and when and also the various color options for each bloom.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Do not select flowers with droopy petals, or petals prone to falling, as the flowers will break apart quickly.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li> Start with your design BEFORE deciding on your colors otherwise you may be tempted to choose expensive or unseasonal flower options to fit in with your wedding theme.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Use artificial flowers to practice before the big day. These are inexpensive and can also be used after-wards around the home or even at the wedding.</li>
</ul>
<p>You may even be tempted to go down the artificial wedding flowers route once you have seen how stunning budget silk wedding flowers can be!</p>
<p>And here is just a few more tips for the DIY Wedding:</p>
<ul>
<li>Use flowers that are in season. They&#8217;re readily available and cost less than flowers that are out of season. And all flowers cost more during the month of February because of Valentine&#8217;s Day.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Get married on a holiday when the church will already be decorated. Christmas and Easter decorations already set up in a church can make a beautiful backdrop for your wedding.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Shrink your bridal party and your guest list. Fewer people mean fewer bouquets and decorations.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Coordinate with another bride who is getting married around the same time as you. The two of you might be able to split the cost of flowers.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Look outdoors for decorations. An outdoor wedding can save you tons of money on flowers, because you can find a setting that is naturally beautiful.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Supplement large arrangements with less expensive flowers. Usually, these arrangements are far away, so your guests won&#8217;t be able to tell anyway.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Create your own arrangements. You can use silk flowers or even flowers from your own garden. And you save a lot of money in the process.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Fill spaces with greenery instead of flowers. Large potted plants can be rented for significantly less than flowers. Ivy and other greenery is also beautiful as an accent.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Think about fruit and other alternative arrangements. A vase full of fruit is just as eye catching, and it&#8217;s quite a bit cheaper.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Don&#8217;t be afraid to enlist the help of others!</strong></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/do-it-yourself-wedding-flowers-diy-wedding-boutineers/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>San Diego Florists</title>
		<link>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/where-can-i-find-cheap-corsages-boutonnieres-for-prom-in-san-diego-ca/</link>
		<comments>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/where-can-i-find-cheap-corsages-boutonnieres-for-prom-in-san-diego-ca/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 20 Jan 2010 00:02:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Boutonnieres]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[florist]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[flower]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[prom]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[san diego]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/where-can-i-find-cheap-corsages-boutonnieres-for-prom-in-san-diego-ca/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Florists in the area are scrambling to cope with the demand for Mothers Day Flowers San Diego Delivery. Mothers Day is a special occasion where we honor our mothers, wives, grandmothers, and aunts. Since ancient times, our ancestors have already revered mothers. Goddesses who shower love and warmth to their subjects are always portrayed as [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="overDiv" style="position:absolute; visibility:hidden; z-index:1000;"></div><p>Florists in the area are scrambling to cope with the demand for Mothers Day Flowers San Diego Delivery. Mothers Day is a special occasion where we honor our mothers, wives, grandmothers, and aunts. Since ancient times, our ancestors have already revered mothers. Goddesses who shower love and warmth to their subjects are always portrayed as mothers. Our own mother is the very epitome of love, grace, and caring. Mothers Day, held every second Sunday of May, is our time to pay homage to these women who have done a wonderful job of raising and caring for us.</p>
<p>The month of May is also the month of flowers. So it is but fitting that we shower our mothers with flowers on this very special Sunday of May. Indeed, flowers are the most popular gifts given on Mothers Day. This practice has led to a boom in Mothers Day flowers San Diego delivery.</p>
<p>For your gift to stand out, you may opt to deviate from traditional choices. There are some florists which offer designer bouquets. These bouquets are arranged in unique ways to capture the essence of the recipient. You may ask your florist to arrange your flowers in a Zen-like or one-sided arrangement, popular among Asian-themed bouquets. Some florists may even include battery-operated fountains or springs to simulate a Japanese garden.</p>
<p>If your mother is more of the country-type woman, you may ask your florist to design Martha Stewart-inspired arrangements which are typically traditional, simple, and monochromatic. Bags, shoes, and boots may be used instead of vases for the more fashion-inclined mother. Granted some of these unusual designs offer challenges for Mothers Day flowers San Diego delivery, your florists may charge you extra for these deliveries.</p>
<p>You may choose to give live plants instead of cut flowers. One of the most popular choices for Mothers Day flowers San Diego delivery are live African violets arranged prettily in baskets or pots. These would work well for mothers who are concerned about the environment and are into gardening. They can tend these plants and transplant them in their gardens for a more lasting gift.</p>
<p>Although not as popular, you may give artificial flowers. Some of the choices include candies arranged as flowers, flower pop-up cards, and silk flowers. If you think that flowers are frivolous and want to give something more enduring, this may be a good compromise.</p>
<p>And if you are having these flowers delivered directly to the recipient, don&#8217;t forget to include a personal note or dedication on the card. This would make the gift more meaningful.</p>
<p>When thinking of gifts to give, remember, there is a Mothers Day Flowers San Diego Delivery service that can cater to your needs.</p>
<p>Have any <a title="Wedding Questions" href="http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/">wedding questions</a>? Get all the answers you need now at Rachael West Designs.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/where-can-i-find-cheap-corsages-boutonnieres-for-prom-in-san-diego-ca/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Costing Out Corsages And Boutonnieres</title>
		<link>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/how-much-do-corsage-and-boutonnieres-cost-at-vons/</link>
		<comments>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/how-much-do-corsage-and-boutonnieres-cost-at-vons/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 19 Jan 2010 00:06:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Boutonnieres]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[flowe]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/how-much-do-corsage-and-boutonnieres-cost-at-vons/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The cost of wedding flowers is an important budget item you cannot afford to ignore while laying out an estimate of your wedding cost. For a wedding, the cost on flowers will be for the bouquets carried by the bride, her maids, corsages carried by mothers of bride and the groom and the boutonnieres carried [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="overDiv" style="position:absolute; visibility:hidden; z-index:1000;"></div><p>The cost of wedding flowers is an important budget item you cannot afford to ignore while laying out an estimate of your wedding cost.</p>
<p>For a wedding, the cost on flowers will be for the bouquets carried by the bride, her maids, corsages carried by mothers of bride and the groom and the boutonnieres carried by the groom and groomsmen and flowers of the flower girls. There are occasions when the wedding guests are also offered flowers. All inclusive becomes the cost of wedding flowers.</p>
<p>A bridal wedding bouquet cost will be up to $150 with the lower range being $50. Bridesmaids&#8217; bouquets will be in the $20 to $30 range and the boutonnieres come within $10 or a little above $10.</p>
<p>The cost also is linked to the number of flowers used and if the bouquets need to be more ornate the cost goes up. Going for seasonal flower bouquets will reduce the overall cost for flowers. Exotic flower bouquets such as those made with orchids are always costlier.</p>
<p>A good idea is to consult a florist well in advance and tell your budget range, he will show what he has to offer in that budget. Also check with him the cost involved for altar decoration with flowers. Most of the florists offer it as a fringe benefit. But ensure beforehand. If you are on a shoestring budget inform your florist of the same.</p>
<p>Some helpful tips to operate on a shoestring budget for wedding flowers are as follows:</p>
<p>Take some time to trim the flowers by yourself and this saves a good deal of money. Go for in-season and easily available flowers.</p>
<p>Explain your florist a general style and color scheme and of any reservations you have for a particular flower and give your florist a flexibility to use in-season and cheapest flowers. Few months, wherein the cost of the flowers would be high, can be avoided for wedding.</p>
<p>Use inexpensive flowers such as carnations for decorating the altar. Even going for snowball mums is not a bad idea as they give a filling appeal.</p>
<p>Book a garden like venue for the ceremony and you can reduce cost on flowers. If another party books the same venue you can get a deal by splitting the flower cost between the two.</p>
<p>Consider ordering wedding flowers through Internet. There are several online flower wholesalers out there, who would offer much cheaper rates than a real florist out in town.</p>
<p>Have any <a title="Wedding Questions" href="http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/">wedding questions</a>? Get all the answers you need now at Rachael West Designs.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/how-much-do-corsage-and-boutonnieres-cost-at-vons/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Wedding Tuxedo Jackets And Boutonnieres</title>
		<link>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/should-my-groomsmen-wear-boutonnieres-on-their-mandarin-collar-jackets-they-have-no-lapels/</link>
		<comments>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/should-my-groomsmen-wear-boutonnieres-on-their-mandarin-collar-jackets-they-have-no-lapels/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 18 Jan 2010 00:05:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Boutonnieres]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[boutonniere]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bridesmaids]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[flowers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grey dresses]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[groomsmen]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[lapels]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mandarin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[style shirt]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tuxedo jackets]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[white gown]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/should-my-groomsmen-wear-boutonnieres-on-their-mandarin-collar-jackets-they-have-no-lapels/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When it comes to wedding planning, there can often be such a tremendous focus on the bride and her special day that the groom can sometimes feel a little left out. While it cannot be denied that the bride certainly will see to many of the wedding details, there are some details that the groom [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="overDiv" style="position:absolute; visibility:hidden; z-index:1000;"></div><p>When it comes to wedding planning, there can often be such a tremendous focus on the bride and her special day that the groom can sometimes feel a little left out. While it cannot be denied that the bride certainly will see to many of the wedding details, there are some details that the groom can take over to ensure there is a little bit of his personality in the wedding as well. Because flowers are such a personal part of the wedding, the boutonniere is a wonderful way for today&#8217;s groom to express himself. Traditional boutonnieres are a thing of the past for today&#8217;s groom, and here we will show you how to use the most contemporary trends in wedding planning using wholesale cut flowers and wholesale spray roses.</p>
<p>The traditional wedding flower is the rose of course, and even the most contemporary brides are still using this classic flower. This is excellent news for the groom, as the number of flower options for boutonnieres is almost limitless, giving you a variety of combinations of wholesale cut flowers or wholesale spray roses. In fact, some grooms have even found a way to design their own boutonniere around the wedding theme without even using the same flowers as his bride. This gives the bridal party a unique look to symbolize the joining of two unique personalities that blend so beautifully.</p>
<p>When you are choosing the design of your boutonniere, you will want to keep the durability of the flower in mind. These flowers will be worn on jackets that will be worn and walked around in all day. Wholesale cut flowers or wholesale spray roses are flowers that have stood the test of time in weddings gone by, and are well known to last every hug on a wedding day. When you are designing your boutonniere, you want to stay away from flowers that may wilt in heat, or that require water after a few hours.</p>
<p>If you are want to go with a groom&#8217;s look that is in line with the most contemporary wedding trends today, you may consider adding a little glam to your boutonniere. Wholesale cut flowers are simply stunning with a little crystal stem wrap, and wholesale spray roses are livened up instantly with a crystal bud amongst the petals. This look today is a signature way for any groom to make his own statement. Using durable blooms such as wholesale cut flowers and wholesale spray roses will be a wonderful way to add a little glitz to your wedding look.</p>
<p>If you are choosing wholesale spray roses, or wholesale cut flowers that are different from the flowers your bride is choosing, you can choose a flower color that will match hers to blend the bridal party together. Choose your tux color to contrast the colors of the wholesale spray roses or wholesale cut flowers you will be choosing. A lighter colored flower looks nicer against a darker tuxedo, and likewise the darker colors such as red will contrast beautifully with a white tuxedo. There are many ways you can incorporate our own personality into this one detail of your wedding.</p>
<p>Have any <a title="Wedding Questions" href="http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/">wedding questions</a>? Get all the answers you need now at Rachael West Designs.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/should-my-groomsmen-wear-boutonnieres-on-their-mandarin-collar-jackets-they-have-no-lapels/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Questions About Boutonnieres And Corsages</title>
		<link>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/do-you-only-wear-boutonnieres-at-senior-prom/</link>
		<comments>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/do-you-only-wear-boutonnieres-at-senior-prom/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 17 Jan 2010 00:32:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Boutonnieres]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[boutonniere]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[corsage]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[kool]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[proms]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[yellow dress]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/do-you-only-wear-boutonnieres-at-senior-prom/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Or can you wear it at other proms too? Oh okay cool! And also, if I&#8217;m wearing a yellow dress, what color should my corsage and his boutonniere be?1. Is my date available? If it is, check to see if a deposit is necessary to hold the date. Also ask if there is any consultation [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="overDiv" style="position:absolute; visibility:hidden; z-index:1000;"></div><p>Or can you wear it at other proms too?<br />
Oh okay cool!<br />
And also, if I&#8217;m wearing a yellow dress, what color should my corsage and his boutonniere be?1.  Is my date available?</p>
<p>If it is, check to see if a deposit is necessary to hold the date. Also ask if there is any consultation fee. Inquire as to  whether you can receive a price proposal before deposit its placed.</p>
<p>2.  Do you have actual photographs  or samples of your past work?</p>
<p>It&#8217;s important to see the work of the actual florist not air brushed photos from a FTD book. There is no better way to see if their style complements your tastes and verify just how skilled they are.</p>
<p>3. Is there a delivery or set-up fee?</p>
<p>Watch out  this can be a substantial extra charge. Most florists will charge a delivery and set-up fee especially if you have either complex flower arrangements or a site that is a long distance from their shop. If the charge is high, consider finding a florist closer to the site or cut back on the complicated decorations.</p>
<p>4. Do you offer any silk or dried flower arrangements?</p>
<p>This may be important to you if  you want to save your bouquet or want an unusual look for a table centerpiece. Sometimes these two options may be less expensive than fresh flowers, especially for some exotics like orchids. A table centerpiece idea: dried rose topiaries double as an elegant keepsake.</p>
<p>5.  How many weddings do you do in a day?</p>
<p>The biggest problem with some florists is that they become over-extended trying to do too many weddings in one day. A florist can probably do two or three events a day if the events are held at different times or the florist has plenty of help. If the florist schedule looks crowded for your wedding date, they may arrive late or deliver the wrong flowers. Be sure to look for someone focused on your wedding not just your checkbook.</p>
<p>6. Are you familiar with my ceremony and reception site locations?</p>
<p>If not, will you visit it with me? It may be a good idea to introduce your florist to  the ceremony or reception site if they have never seen it.  Ask if there is any charge for this on-site visit.</p>
<p>7.  What rental items do you have? How are they priced?</p>
<p>Some things you many want to rent include a candelabrum, aisle standards or urns. The best florists don&#8217;t over charge on rentals. One way to find out is to compare prices with a local rental store. A common markup for florists is about 10% for their time to coordinate this detail. If you would prefer to rent the items yourself because you can get a better price, be sure you have the time to pick up and return the items.</p>
<p>8.  Can I attend one of your weddings during set-up for a look at your designs?</p>
<p>Here is another way to determine how professional and talented your florist is. You will need to visit during set-up and leave before the wedding party arrives. Try not to interrupt the florists or their staff while they work (save your questions for later.)  Look for timeliness, freshness of the flowers, and how well the florist and staff work together.</p>
<p>9.  What time will you be at my ceremony and reception sites to set up my wedding?</p>
<p>Confirm this time constantly throughout your planning. Many florists set up weddings a couple of hours in advance. If this is the case with your wedding, make sure the temperature at your site will not be too hot for the flowers.</p>
<p>10.  Will you merely drop off my flowers or stay through the ceremony?</p>
<p>The degree of service here differs dramatically from florist to florist. Some just drop off the flowers for the ceremony and leave, while others will stay to pin on corsages, make sure nothing is missing etc. There will be an extra fee of generally $50-75 for this service; however this could be a worthwhile investment.</p>
<p>11.  What happens if the flowers I pick are  not available for my wedding?</p>
<p>How will you determine what flowers to substitute?</p>
<p>Have any <a title="Wedding Questions" href="http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/">wedding questions</a>? Get all the answers you need now at Rachael West Designs.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/do-you-only-wear-boutonnieres-at-senior-prom/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Wedding Money-Savers</title>
		<link>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/what-should-our-groomsmen-wear-instead-of-boutonnieres/</link>
		<comments>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/what-should-our-groomsmen-wear-instead-of-boutonnieres/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 05 Jan 2010 17:03:21 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Boutonnieres]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bouquets]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[boutonniere]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bridesmaids]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[country boy and city girl]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cowboy boots]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cowboy hat]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[denim pants]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[girl type]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[groomsmen]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[informal wedding]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[southern missouri]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/what-should-our-groomsmen-wear-instead-of-boutonnieres/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[he wedding industry is one of the most successful industries in America. A typical, average wedding can cost anywhere from 10,000 to 30,000 dollars. Especially in today&#8217;s economy, this can be an extreme stress on a family&#8217;s funds. There are many ways to save money on the big day, and here are a few ideas! [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="overDiv" style="position:absolute; visibility:hidden; z-index:1000;"></div><p>he wedding industry is one of the most successful industries in America. A typical, average wedding can cost anywhere from 10,000 to 30,000 dollars. Especially in today&#8217;s economy, this can be an extreme stress on a family&#8217;s funds. There are many ways to save money on the big day, and here are a few ideas!</p>
<p><strong>1. The Cake</strong></p>
<p>Have a loved one make it. Especially if there is a grandmother or aunt or friend who makes delicious desserts, this can prove perfect for a simple, inexpensive (if not free!) option. Also, throw out the net for local cake-makers. There may be a family friend, or person in your church, or something of the like who makes cakes on the side and would be available to make an inexpensive (or discounted), beautifully done cake. There are many options for decorating your cake yourself, simply and inexpensively. One idea is to use lace in the color of your choice along the base of the cake, to add a delicate, detailed touch. Also, the addition of simple leaves and small flower buds can add color and texture, without much cost. One last option is to have a very simple, two layer cake (so as to fulfill the tradition of saving the top layer for the first anniversary celebration), and top it with a cake topper. While this original idea is somewhat old-fashioned, a fabulous place to look for contemporary cake toppers with a lot of pizzazz is weddingstar.com, the website of a great bridal magazine. There is a link specifically for their cake toppers, which are unique and fun, and cater to any couple&#8217;s personalities!</p>
<p><strong>2. Other Desserts</strong></p>
<p>Another unique dessert option, which isn&#8217;t necessarily for everyone, is to have a potluck-style dessert table. Call up aunts, grandmothers, family friends who are excellent bakers, etc. and ask them each cook their &#8220;famous&#8221; dessert/cake, and dress it up on a fancy dish to be placed on a table in the reception area. More than likely, it will be an exciting, flattering opportunity for them to contribute to your special day. The dessert table can be a nice, decent sized table that can be decorated and placed in the location of your choice in the reception area. If you&#8217;d like a more uniform look, you may even have matching dishes ahead of time to host each different dessert. A fun accompanying idea is to have each lady walk in, in a scheduled &#8220;Cake Walk&#8221;, complete with music, as they place each of their desserts on the table. This idea is definitely for a more intimate, casual wedding.</p>
<p><strong>3. The Flowers</strong></p>
<p>For the bouquets, if you don&#8217;t have a close friend or acquaintance that does flowers on the side, it can be very financially beneficial to put a bouquet together yourself, or with the help of your bridesmaids. Or, if going to a flower shop to request a bouquet, research the flowers ahead of time, to see which ones tend to be more expensive, and put together a list of flowers that are the shapes and colors you&#8217;d like. Also, consider having flowers only in the wedding party &#8211; the bouquets, and boutonnieres. Overall ceremony and reception decoration costs can be greatly cut down by using cost-effective alternatives, as flowers can be one of the most expensive components to the décor. Look into fabrics, mirrors, stones, branches, lanterns, candle stands, etc. instead of flower centerpieces.</p>
<p><strong>4. Personalization</strong></p>
<p>The cost of things such as wedding invitations and wedding favors can really add up. A little tip for these is to have a unified personalization, such as an initialed stamp, to put to use in every possible way. With something like a stamp, even the napkins can be personalized individually, rather than having to pay the price for fancy printed napkins. Wedding favors can be as simple as a picture, a CD of favorite songs, a self-decorated ornament, a container of bubbles or bells, etc. There are many ways to make wedding favors personal, and next to nothing in cost. Don&#8217;t fret about the little things; don&#8217;t spend too much on something that might be cute, but not very useful to your guests.</p>
<p>Be creative in your brainstorming for unique ideas to save on your wedding. Take a moment to ignore the normal expectations of a wedding, and come up with your own thoughts on what this day should be. There are many ideas out there to save money, and it&#8217;s never out of the question to come up with more and more of your own! Decide what&#8217;s most important &#8211; what you don&#8217;t want to skimp on &#8211; and creatively cut corners to make those things happen.</p>
<p>Have any <a title="Wedding Questions" href="http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/">wedding questions</a>? Get all the answers you need now at Rachael West Designs.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/what-should-our-groomsmen-wear-instead-of-boutonnieres/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Ten Things You Should Expect from Your Wedding Florist</title>
		<link>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/how-much-should-i-expect-to-pay-for-my-wedding-bouquetboutonnieres/</link>
		<comments>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/how-much-should-i-expect-to-pay-for-my-wedding-bouquetboutonnieres/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 27 Dec 2009 15:40:33 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Boutonnieres]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ball park]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ball park figure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bouquets]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[type of flowers]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/how-much-should-i-expect-to-pay-for-my-wedding-bouquetboutonnieres/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I often meet with brides who are extremely nervous about sitting on the other side of my desk. The conversation usually begins with, &#8220;I know nothing about flowers, but I do know that I want it to be beautiful.&#8221; As a professional wedding florist, I understand that most of my clients have never ordered flowers and [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="overDiv" style="position:absolute; visibility:hidden; z-index:1000;"></div><p>I often meet with brides who are extremely nervous about sitting on the other side of my desk. The conversation usually begins with, &#8220;I know nothing about flowers, but I do know that I want it to be beautiful.&#8221; As a professional wedding florist, I understand that most of my clients have never ordered flowers and have no idea what goes well together, what flowers are in season, or how much they can expect to pay for their flowers.</p>
<p>You need to remember that this is the most exciting time of your life. Your wedding florist is there to provide you with guidance. Here are some tips for finding a florist that is right for you. If you meet with a florist and he or she doesn&#8217;t measure up to these guidelines, I would hit the door!</p>
<p>1. Expect your florist to know that this is your day &#8211; not theirs! I know of many floral designers that are very passionate about their work &#8211; as they should be. But I also know that sometimes a designer will get you carried away with their own ideas and try and steer you away from your vision of the perfect day. As florists, we ALL have flowers that we love to work with and others that we are not fond of for one reason or another. And, while we should relate those concerns to you, you need to know that ultimately the decision is yours.</p>
<p>2. Expect to see examples of their work &#8211; and not just website examples! More and more brides are researching their wedding vendors by way of the internet and there are some really GREAT websites out there. But, be careful and make sure that they are not better at creating websites than they are at creating beautiful floral designs. Ask to see actual photos from weddings they&#8217;ve done and even ask about the weddings that you see pictures of. Where was their ceremony? I love these flowers! What are those and are they in season for my wedding?</p>
<p>3. Expect your consultation to be thorough. Expect the consultation to last from 1 &#8211; 2 hours. In order to receive an accurate quote, your florist needs to spend a good amount of time getting to know you and your likes and dislikes. They should have plenty of pictures, books, magazines, and other materials on hand to show you. Because no two weddings are ever the same, there are many styles of bouquets, corsages, ceremony decor and endless reception centerpiece ideas. Your florist should take time explaining these styles to you and show you many examples of ideas that will fit your budget.</p>
<p>4. Expect your quote to be itemized &#8211; not one package price. You have a right to know how much your flowers are costing you. More than likely you will need to make changes to your order at some point. For example, you may decide you need less centerpieces for the reception once you get back your RSVP&#8217;s and have a more accurate head count. Make sure your quote is broken down by bridal bouquet, bridesmaid bouquets, corsages, boutonnieres, etc. and that tax is included. Find out if there is an additional delivery and set up fee and make sure that is noted on your proposal as well. Also find out how late you can make changes to your ordrer.</p>
<p>5. Expect References. I have never had a client that was indifferent about my services! This is the most important day of your life and you will have an opinion about your wedding day when it is all said and done! Ask for references and call or email them. I have a ton of testimonials from past clients and they all bring something new to the table. Most talk about the beautiful flowers and the designs, but others comment on my pricing, my professionalism, my attentiveness to detail, etc. If there is something special you&#8217;re looking for your florist to have, you may find out if they have it from talking to a past client.</p>
<p>6. Expect your florist to make a sample design for you &#8211; even if you have to pay for it. Flowers can be incredibly difficult to pick out and you may not be able to find an exact picture of that bouquet you&#8217;ve always dreamed of. And, if not, don&#8217;t be afraid to ask your florist to make one up for you. They should be happy to do it, but you may need to pay for this service and that&#8217;s okay! Having peace of mind is sometimes worth the cost!</p>
<p>7. Expect your florist to be able to fit your budget! This is a tricky one because you have to first &#8216;know&#8217; your budget in order for your florist to be able to &#8216;fit&#8217; your budget. Many brides come to me with no idea of how much they want to spend, or what they want to spend isn&#8217;t reasonable with what they need. In other words, just because you say you have $500 to spend doesn&#8217;t mean I should be able to provide you with 25 table centerpieces plus all of the bridal party flowers! You should expect your flowers to cost between 10 &#8211; 15 percent of your overall wedding. My advice &#8211; be up front and honest with your florist right from the start. Your florist should be able to work with you in achieving something truly beautiful no matter what your budget &#8211; as long as it is reasonable!</p>
<p>8. Expect to see your florist the day of your wedding! Make sure that your florist will be delivering your wedding. Weddings can be chaotic when there are many vendors involved. I only schedule one wedding per day because I know that inevitably, the cake will be late, the reception tables won&#8217;t be ready, etc. A florist who schedules several weddings in one day can&#8217;t possibly plan to deliver them all. And, if something goes wrong with your flowers, I wouldn&#8217;t depend on the delivery person to be able to fix the problem or offer any solutions!</p>
<p>9. Expect your florist to be professional, knowledgable, and creative! Enough said!</p>
<p>10. Expect to feel good about the florist you&#8217;ve chosen! Meet with several florists and I can guarantee you will like someone the best. Don&#8217;t always go with the florist who is the cheapest. Pick the designer who you think will treat your wedding like it&#8217;s their very own! And, believe me, we&#8217;re out there!</p>
<p>Have any <a title="Wedding Questions" href="http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/">wedding questions</a>? Get all the answers you need now at Rachael West Designs.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/how-much-should-i-expect-to-pay-for-my-wedding-bouquetboutonnieres/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Handsome Boutonnieres For the Groom</title>
		<link>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/what-do-you-think-of-different-colors-for-the-bouquetsboutonnieres/</link>
		<comments>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/what-do-you-think-of-different-colors-for-the-bouquetsboutonnieres/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 23 Dec 2009 22:34:17 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Boutonnieres]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[best man]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bouquet]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bouquets]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[boutonniere]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bridesmaids]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[connotations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[different colors]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fiance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[flower girl]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[friendship]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[groomsmen]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[maid of honor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[purity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[roses]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[symbolism]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[true love]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wedding party]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/?p=52</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The men in a wedding tend to be overlooked a bit. All of the focus is on the bride, especially when it comes to the wedding ensemble. The groom and his attendants may not have as many options as the bride, but they can still add a dash of style to their suits with a [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="overDiv" style="position:absolute; visibility:hidden; z-index:1000;"></div><p>The men in a wedding tend to be overlooked a bit. All of the focus is on the bride, especially when it comes to the wedding ensemble. The groom and his attendants may not have as many options as the bride, but they can still add a dash of style to their suits with a handsome boutonniere.</p>
<p>There are almost as many choices for boutonnieres as there options for the bride&#8217;s bouquet. In general, the boutonnieres worn by the men in the wedding party should coordinate with the rest of the flowers (sorry guys, I guess it is still all about the bride!). A nice way to tie in the lapel flowers with the bouquets and other floral displays is to choose one of the same blooms featured in the bride&#8217;s flowers to use as the boutonniere.</p>
<p>Since the boutonnieres will be worn on the men&#8217;s jackets, you will want to pick flowers that have some durability. Very fragile flowers will be crushed as the groom hugs his family and friends. Your florist can steer you towards those blooms that will last throughout the wedding day. Also be wary of any flowers that are likely to wilt when they are out of water for many hours, or those that are highly fragranced, which can be irritating if the groom or his groomsmen are prone to allergies.</p>
<p>Usually, the boutonniere consists of a single flower, but you can also combine a few small elements to make a unique ornament. For instance, for an autumn wedding, you can wire an acorn into a spray of orange berries for a charming seasonal accent. A winter groom would look dashing sporting a small spray of pine with a few red berries and a single white flower. Just be sure to keep the boutonnieres from getting too large, or the men will refuse to wear them!</p>
<p>Sparkle is one of the hottest trends at weddings these days, and you see that carried into the boutonnieres. A simple rose can be dressed up with a string of tiny Swarovksi crystals wrapped around the stem. Or a few crystals can be wired into the center of an open flower. This is often a popular idea for the groom, and then the groomsmen will wear the same type of boutonniere without the crystal accents.</p>
<p>White is the most classic color for wedding boutonnieres, and it looks wonderfully crisp against a dark suit or tuxedo. Red is another excellent color idea. The more feminine colors such as pink or lilac may be a bit less appealing to your groom, so be sure to seek his opinion before ordering a flower for him in one of those colors. If you are planning to carry a bouquet of all pink roses, and your fiancé would not be caught dead wearing a pink flower on his lapel, you can always order the boutonnieres in the same type of flower, but in a more acceptable color to him, such as white.</p>
<p>It the traditional etiquette of wedding flowers, the bride&#8217;s family pays for all of the flowers, except for the bride&#8217;s bouquet, which is sometimes a gift from the groom. These days, things are a bit looser, especially as more couples finance their own weddings. It would be nice for the bride to give the groom his boutonniere, and then the groom can give the groomsmen their boutonnieres as a gift. (This is not to be confused with the main groomsmen gift, which should be something of lasting value, like silver cufflinks.)</p>
<p>The boutonniere is a small detail in the grand scheme of a wedding, to be sure. However, the boutonniere is one of the few bits of flair that the groom will get to wear, so it is important. Choose a lapel accent for him that is stylish and classic, and your groom will look even more handsome on your wedding day.</p>
<p>Have any <a title="Wedding Questions" href="http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/">wedding questions</a>? Get all the answers you need now at Rachael West Designs.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/what-do-you-think-of-different-colors-for-the-bouquetsboutonnieres/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>What is a Boutonniere Pin or Tussy Mussy?</title>
		<link>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/will-boutonnieres-look-good-on-white-dress-shirts-without-vest-or-coat-lapels/</link>
		<comments>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/will-boutonnieres-look-good-on-white-dress-shirts-without-vest-or-coat-lapels/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 29 Nov 2009 21:05:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Boutonnieres]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dress shirt]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[groomsmen]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[visualization]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[white dress]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/?p=28</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Boutonniere is the male equivalent of the female corsage which usually consists of a collection of one or two small flowers with a baby&#8217;s breath accent or fern. The word boutonniere comes from the French and it means a small flower or a bunch of flowers worn in a button hole, or worn pinned [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="overDiv" style="position:absolute; visibility:hidden; z-index:1000;"></div><p>The Boutonniere is the male equivalent of the female corsage which usually consists of a collection of one or two small flowers with a baby&#8217;s breath accent or fern. The word boutonniere comes from the French and it means a small flower or a bunch of flowers worn in a button hole, or worn pinned to the lapel of a jacket. The boutonniere is always worn on the left, the same side as the pocket handkerchief. Most often the boutonniere is worn for formal occasions such as weddings or proms. The boutonniere pin however, is a miniature tussy mussy, a type of flower holder, usually made of silver or brass and can be engraved to make for a memorable keepsake.</p>
<p>Now you are probably asking yourself &#8220;What is a Tussy Mussy&#8221;? Well the tussy mussy is a bridal accessory must have. One of the most treasured items on wedding day is a comfortable bouquet holder. Although many people do not know the term &#8220;tussy mussy&#8221;, it is one of the best found surprises for your wedding day. A tussy mussy not only provides outstanding bouquet comfort, but it adds incredible elegance to your bouquet. The tussy mussy with stand also allows the bride to display her bridal bouquet on the bridal party table at the reception. They easily apply to bouquets for brides, bridesmaids, and mothers. These special wedding items may also be engraved for personalization that will make for a memorable keepsake for all your bridesmaids and mothers.</p>
<p>The wedding tradition of the groom wearing a boutonniere originates in medieval times when a knight wore his lady&#8217;s special colors (through flowers) as a statement of his love. Boutonniere pins offer the perfect accent to any flower the bride decides to carry for her bouquet. The groom, groomsmen, ushers, and the fathers of the bride and groom wear boutonnieres at weddings. If someone other than the father is escorting the bride down the aisle, he should also wear a boutonniere. If a woman escorts the bride, she wears a traditional corsage.</p>
<p>Your wedding flowers are sure to stand out with the added elegance by using a tussy mussy and boutonniere pin. Both items are usually made in silver or brass and can be easily purchased online. Typically the boutonniere pin is less expensive than the tussy mussy however both items are very affordable. Get them personalized for your groomsmen and bridesmaids for a gift for them to keep to remember your special day.</p>
<p>Credit for this article goes to <a href="http://www.brandisbridalboutique.com">www.brandisbridalboutique.com</a></p>
<p>Have any <a title="Wedding Questions" href="http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/">wedding questions</a>? Get all the answers you need now at Rachael West Designs.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/will-boutonnieres-look-good-on-white-dress-shirts-without-vest-or-coat-lapels/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Uses For Boutonniere Pins, Lapel Pins</title>
		<link>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/boutonnieres/</link>
		<comments>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/boutonnieres/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 15:23:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Boutonnieres]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bouquets]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[boutonniere]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bridesmaids]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[desperate need]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[flower]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[groomsmen]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[july 7th]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[lilies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mother in law]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[orchids]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[peach]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[simplicity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[trailing bouquet]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wedding Flowers]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/boutonnieres/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A boutonniere is a floral decoration worn by men, typically a single flower or bud. Traditionally, a boutonniere was worn pushed through the lapel buttonhole (on the left, the same side as a pocket handkerchief) and the stem is held in place with a stem loop at the back of the lapel. The boutonniere pin, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="overDiv" style="position:absolute; visibility:hidden; z-index:1000;"></div><p>A boutonniere is a floral decoration worn by men, typically a single flower or bud. Traditionally, a boutonniere was worn pushed through the lapel buttonhole (on the left, the same side as a pocket handkerchief) and the stem is held in place with a stem loop at the back of the lapel. The boutonniere pin, however, is a decorative holder for the boutonniere that is made of either brass or silver. While worn frequently in the past, boutonnieres are now usually reserved for special occasions for which formal wear is standard, such as at proms, graduations, homecomings, funerals, and weddings.</p>
<p>The wedding tradition of the groom wearing a boutonniere originates in medieval times when a knight wore his lady&#8217;s special colors (through flowers) as a statement of his love. Boutonniere pins offer the perfect accent to any flower the bride decides to carry in her bouquet. These treasured wedding items make it easy for the groom, the father of the groom and all the ushers to pin on the lapel of their tux.</p>
<p>Proms are also a special occasion where formal wear is required. All the ladies will be wearing their best gowns or dresses and the guys spiffed up in their tuxes or suits. The boutonniere pin can be used to dress up your formal wear and provide a nice holder to coordinate with the corsage of the lady. You can also have your pin engraved to create a wonderful memory of your high school prom.</p>
<p>Also graduation season is fast approaching. Do you have a son, grandson or nephew that will be graduating? Do you have or know someone that will be Valedictorian, Salutatorian, Class President or speaking at graduation? Make them stand out by pinning on a boutonniere pin on the lapel of his formal wear with flowers in the high schools colors. Create a fond memory by having it engraved with his name, initials and date.</p>
<p>Here are instructions to pinning on a boutonniere:</p>
<p>* Before pinning it on, make sure that any greenery, such as leaves or ferns, are in the back, and the flower is in the front.<br />
* Pin the boutonniere on the mans left side (that means go to your right).<br />
* Place the boutonniere so that the flower is on or just below the broadest part of the lapel.<br />
* Put the pin so the head is under the lapel, and push the point through, over the boutonniere, and back under the lapel on the other side.<br />
* Make sure that it stays, and you&#8217;re all set!</p>
<p>So whichever occasion you will be needing a boutonniere for make sure you have a boutonniere pin. Not only will they provide a decorative accent for the pretty flower it houses but they also make for a special keepsake when the event is all over.</p>
<p>Credit for this article goes to <a href="http://www.brandisbridalboutique.com">www.brandisbridalboutique.com</a></p>
<p>Have any <a title="Wedding Questions" href="http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/">wedding questions</a>? Get all the answers you need now at Rachael West Designs.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.rachaelwestdesigns.com/weddingquestions/boutonnieres/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
		</item>
	</channel>
</rss>

