Blog Archives

Pros and Cons of Attending a Local Wedding Expo in New Jersey

7/3/2016

by Tara Bard, Contributing Writer

Expos can be exciting and exhausting, but they also provide a variety of helpful information. You can learn some general wedding planning tips as well as locate vendors local to you, the New Jersey couple.

Why attend a New Jersey wedding expo?

Countless ideas. If you attend a wedding expo, you’ll probably pick up some new ideas for your wedding. You may discover a location you hadn’t seen advertised before or learn that cupcake tier cakes are often less expensive (and more trendy) than traditional wedding cakes.

Immediate impression of vendors. If you’re looking to save money and have a budget in mind, you can work face to face with vendors in the space of a day. This can save a great deal of time for both parties in addition to the hassle of phone tag.

General or specific resources. Expos are great resources for couples in every stage of the planning process. Whether you haven’t selected your colors or you simply need a live band, a wedding expo offers many choices.

Freebies. Want to sample that cake before you put down a deposit? Maybe you’d like to hear the officiant speak about love in person before hiring her to marry you. Wedding expos offer you the chance to collect some free samples and to experience an example of what vendors could provide for you on your wedding day.

The wedding planning process. Wedding expos obviously present you with many opportunities. They can help you cut down on the budget as well. Some couples consider ‘expo shopping’ to be a legitimate and necessary part of the wedding planning process.

Why avoid a New Jersey wedding expo?

Vendor…or vulture? Sometimes vendors can be like vultures. Occasionally, they’ll be pushy, urging you to sign up for something on-spot or add your e-mail to their lengthy spam list.

Overexposure. Expos present you with a wide range of possibilities for your wedding. This can be extremely overwhelming, especially if you haven’t focused in on certain specifics.

Impossible budget. If you’re hoping to plan your wedding on a budget, it might seem impossible at a wedding expo (although it certainly isn’t). Vendors will try their best to upsell you on their products—the key is to be patient and shop around for vendors that are willing to work for and not against you.

This post was originally published on Examiner.com.

It's in the Details: South Jersey Beach Wedding Accents

7/3/2016

by Tara Bard, Contributing Writer

Have you ever attended a wedding or event that just thrilled you because of the details? Theme-based details are an excellent way to make your South Jersey wedding memorable. If budget is a concern, beach or nautical-themed details can add a thoughtful yet inexpensive touch to your event.

Here are some ideas to make your beach wedding enchanting with the details:

Photos in the sand. On a table near the guest book, place a wooden rectangular box filled halfway with sand (you can paint or finish a plain craft store box to match your colors and theme). Place a Polaroid camera and extra film nearby along with instructions. Allow guests to take pictures and leave them for you in the sand after they dry! You can even include a pen for guests to sign the photo. Later, you can include the photos in a scrapbook album.

Postcards as table cards. Interested in trying something different to label your tables? Try using postcards for your beach destination. For each table, purchase two matching postcards. Glue the blank sides together. Place a large table number on each photo side. You can arrange the numbers to the left or right depending on the picture. This adds a great local flair to your beach wedding!

Shell centerpieces. If you're adding some DIY adventure to your beach wedding, consider making your own shell centerpieces. Instead of an awkward floral arrangement, consider a flat circular or rectangular design. Incorporate tea light candles to add a warm glow if your reception is at night.

Salt water taffy favors. Most shore-goers associate salt water taffy with the Jersey shore. Consider purchasing salt water taffy in bulk and dividing the taffy into favor bags for your guests. Guests often appreciate edible favors.

Regardless of budget, you should certainly consider the theme of your wedding in the decor whether you're using colors or the natural elements of the Jersey shore.

This article was originally published on Examiner.com

Atlantic City Weddings 101: Online Resources for Planning Atlantic City Weddings

7/3/2016

by Tara Bard, Contributing Writer

Wedding planning doesn't stop just because the business day is over. For that reason, the Internet is your best friend if you're planning a wedding in Atlantic City or other South Jersey locations. Using a combination of local and national Web sites, you can get a fair amount of research done during nights, weekends and early mornings.

When using the Internet, keep focused on your task. While it's fun to post wedding planning updates to your Facebook account, do your best to avoid distractions to maximize your time.
Make a list of potential vendors and resources and take down notes (or print out pictures from their Web sites to help you remember what you liked or didn't like about them).
When you need a break, do use social media. Twitter and Facebook contacts are helpful for personal recommendations, which are infinitely more valuable. Also, posting a message on Twitter will allow the vendors to come to you, likely through direct message.

Here are some local and national online resources to help you get started:

Local: Atlantic City

Atlantic City Weddings (atlanticcityweddings.com)
Atlantic City Weddings (destination360.com, featuring hotel and car rental information)
Atlantic City Casinos (theatlanticcitycasinos.com)
Atlantic City (atlanticcity.com)

Local: South Jersey/New Jersey

NJWedding.com (njwedding.com, featuring complete resource guide and contests)
New Jersey Weddings (theknot.com)
NJ Wedding Guide (njweddings.org)
New Jersey Bride (newjerseybride.com, magazine site with feature articles and vendor spotlights)

National Resources

Martha Stewart Weddings (marthastewartweddings.com)
The Knot (theknot.com)
About.com Weddings (weddings.about.com)
Brides.com (brides.com)
Offbeat Bride (offbeatbride.com)

Please feel free to add any other useful local, statewide or national resources below.

A version of this article was originally published on Examiner.com

Hyperlocal New Jersey Wedding Trends

7/3/2016

by Tara Bard, Contributing Writer

Looking for a way to save time, money and easily compare prices on local vendors and general costs? Take advantage of the hyperlocal trend. Hyperlocal is a term that refers to events and news items specific to your community. Hyperlocal items generally do not produce interest beyond the community or region.

Hyperlocal bridal events are beneficial for couples and vendors--the vendors get to reach potential customers specifically looking for services in that area. The couples have a narrower, more focused and local group from which to make a selection.

NJWedding.com has a directory of many different wedding-related services, with a search feature that lets you choose vendors within even 5 miles..

Why the hyperlocal trend? Aside from the obvious benefits of direct connections with customers and clients looking to have their wedding in a specific area, hyperlocal events (including those in the South Jersey bridal industry) are likely evolving due to the interest in having inclusive planning, wedding day packages and vendors who are used to working together.

How can hyperlocal events help me, the bride/consumer? Hyperlocal events tend to be smaller and more personal. You'll get more of a chance to sit down and seriously discuss your options with each vendor. At larger expos and conventions, this isn't always the case--sometimes you'll just end up with a bag full of business cards and brochures (with information you could have found yourself at home, online). It's also easier to compare prices and services within a specific location.

Beach and casino weddings. If you're looking to specifically have a wedding centered around a beach or an Atlantic City casino, you can use hyperlocal resources to your advantage. Beyond wedding events, you can utilize hyperlocal news to identify potential venues or locations.

How have hyperlocal resources helped you plan your wedding?

A version of this post was originally published on Examiner.com

Atlantic City Casino Wedding Options

7/3/2016

by Tara Bard, Contributing Writer

This is an opportune time to plan a wedding at an Atlantic City casino. It is a known fact that many casinos are suffering (along with the rest of us) in a poor economy--and that means some wedding packages have become more affordable.

Aside from the now-affordable nature of casino weddings, they are practical, offering wedding, reception, dining and lodging venues all in one location. This is particularly convenient a couple hosting many out-of-town guests at their South Jersey wedding.

Casinos and inclusive venues also typically come with a coordinator to help establish and see to your needs in conjunction with what the venue can provide. If you're working with a wedding planner or have already selected outside vendors, they can possibly work together to provide a comprehensive experience.

Here are some primary Atlantic City casinos offering wedding packages and pricing.

As with any other venue or vendor selection, it's always acceptable to price shop. When you initially contact the casinos, ask about:

Inclusive packages and costs
Room rates and block room availability for guest
A la carte wedding package pieces
Whether it is acceptable to bring outside vendors and homemade items
If a wedding coordinator and fee is included

You can easily create and track your comparisons using widely-available bridal planning books or by making your own sheet in Microsoft Excel. Best of luck!

This post was originally published on Examiner.com

Three Mistakes South Jersey Couples Make When Planning a Wedding

7/3/2016

by Tara Bard, Contributing Writer

South Jersey is a popular area for local and destination weddings. Atlantic City in particular is becoming known as an affordable location for destination weddings for couples on the East Coast as an alternative to Las Vegas.

With all of the emphasis on weddings in New Jersey, it's possible to plan a wedding and forget a few key details. Here are some mistakes that some couples, parents and even wedding planners make when putting together a wedding in the area:

Forgetting the block hotel rate. This is especially important for Atlantic City casino weddings and weddings during peak season. If you don't secure a block rate for your wedding guests, the accommodations can become completely unaffordable or scarce as the date approaches.

Most hotels are very helpful when it comes to blocking rooms; typically, if rooms aren't blocked by a certain date, they are released and you are not responsible for their cost. During peak season, guests can pay up to twice as much if they book last minute.

To avoid this problem, secure a block of rooms and post the information clearly on your wedding Web site. Include the final reservation deadline for blocked rooms.

Failing to secure appropriate use and photo permissions. Do you know that you require special licenses and permits to hold ceremonies on certain places in New Jersey? The same also applies to photo rights. Make sure to do some research when you set up your ceremony site. In the past, brides have expected to find an off-season public beach available for use, for example, only to find it occupied by another event.

Solution: Create a budget for usage and photo rights, do your research with the local government and venues and enlist your photographer's help concerning photo permissions.

Providing too little or inaccurate local information. Guests from afar might not know what to expect of a wedding in Atlantic City. They might feel like AC and South Jersey are exactly like Las Vegas or the "Jersey Shore" show, neither of which are accurate assumptions.

Instead, provide some background information about your wedding destination on your wedding Web site. Be clear about the weather, how crowded the area will be at the time, parking and the costs of certain amenities in the area.

If you're local to the area, think about your chosen wedding location from a guest's standpoint. How will guests navigate and know where to go? If your South Jersey wedding is a destination wedding for you, try to visit the location off-season and ahead of time with these questions in mind.

This post was originally published on Examiner.com.

Helpful Tips for South Jersey Wedding Businesses

7/3/2016

by Tara Bard, Contributing Writer

Even though Atlantic City weddings are increasingly popular among local couples and those planning destination weddings, the wedding vendor business is relatively competitive. If you're a South Jersey wedding vendor, what do you do to make your business stand out?

Night and Weekend Availability

Unless the happy couple is using the services of a wedding planner, they'll be doing a great deal of the wedding planning themselves. In the age of the Internet, many couples (especially the twenty-somethings) are accustomed to instant gratification when it comes to purchasing products and services. If you have night and weekend availability, you're opening yourself up to more business and providing a big relief for brides who only have so much time off to take from work. This is especially true for bridal shops.

Convenience for Out-of-Town Guests and Attendants

Since Atlantic City has become known as an affordable wedding destination and a promising alternative to Vegas, the amount of out-of-town couples and guests attending weddings in South Jersey is on the rise. If you as a vendor cannot make your accommodations or products convenient and affordable to guests, you may lose business. The bride and groom want out-of-towners to be as comfortable as possible--ensure them that this will happen and you'll increase your chances of earning their business.

Instant Gratification

We live in a world of click-and-ship. While wedding planning needs to be a more personal process, wedding planners (both professional and amateur) appreciate convenience. This means that you should have a Web site detailing product information and cost as well as an answering machine and e-mail address that you check frequently--even on nights and weekends if possible. Web sites like Etsy allow sellers to promote and sell customizable wedding items by allowing the customer to purchase and provide instructions or customization information (by filling in the quantity and the names of the bride and groom, for example). Web-savvy brides want to complete a transaction quickly and with confidence. If your storefront isn't at least partially online, how can you compete with other sites offering personalization?

Visual Appeal

The appeal of Atlantic City is in part the location. If you aren't using the latest general and hyperlocal trends to your advantage, you're losing out to the competition. Couples hosting their weddings in Atlantic City have chosen the location for a reason--they might want to incorporate casino glitz or beach front hospitality into their ceremonies and receptions. If you can deliver on that, include it in your promotional materials. What's the point of owning a business in such a beautiful location if you fail to take advantage of its real appeal?

These customer-focused tips are often greatly appreciated by those planning weddings. Brides and professional wedding planners are extremely busy and circumstances force them to become detail-oriented. If you can suggest comprehensive solutions and pledge availability, your attention can earn you business--and word-of-mouth recognition and recommendation.

Frugal Wedding Tips 101: South Jersey Brides Can Barter to Cut Wedding Costs

7/3/2016

by Tara Bard, Contributing Writer

What do brides and businesses have in common? They like to save money, especially when times are tough. If you haven't considered bartering, you should start to evaluate your own assets. Your own talents and skills can help you score good deals. Best of all, vendors are more likely to work with you since you're dealing with them business-to-business--locally--in the South Jersey region. Here's how to do it:

Make a list. Time to play Santa. You need to make a list and check it twice. List all of the things you have to offer. Include everything from job skills to extra furniture you're looking to unload. Don't forget to include the assets of others involved in wedding planning including your husband-to-be and your parents (if they are assisting financially).

Highlight marketable assets. Just as you would before heading out to a job interview, review your marketable assets and think about how the things you have could benefit your vendors. If any of your wedding planning group includes a business owner, think practically about what they might offer. For example, if your father's company sells paper, perhaps you could strike a deal with your invitation designer by bartering for the invitations using your father's supplies--which he will have purchased or produced at cost. If daddy's paying for the wedding, he's just saved some money.

Don't forget advertising. For single items such as cakes or tiaras, consider trading some ad space. That's right--advertising. You can barter for ad space on the back of your wedding programs or even on your wedding Web site. Let the vendor know how many guests you're inviting to accurately describe the advertising range.

You can find local businesses on the South Jersey Craigslist page. Small businesses advertising here may be more open to ad exchange and bartering for free or discounted items. Don't forget to check Central Jersey, Delaware and Philadelphia Craigslist pages for other businesses located in the Atlantic City region.

Wedding Budget 101: Videography and Photography Budgets for Atlantic City Weddings

7/3/2016

by Tara Bard, Contributing Writer

The Jersey Shore holds many beautiful wedding locations--but it's also one of the most expensive regions when it comes to tying the knot. As a result, you'll need to decide what elements deserve the big spending and what you can cut.

You'll want to remember your wedding forever by recording it properly. If you and your partner decide to have children or wish to send images of your wedding to relatives living far away or new friends you meet through life, it's incredibly important to have a visual record of your special day.

Videography and photography comprise a large portion of most couples' budgets. These services are costly because the service providers spend hours at your wedding and reception recording your moments and many hours after selecting, processing and editing your photographs. You'll also want to select professional photographers with recommendation, education in the field and proven records--and that costs money, too.

Here are some options to cut costs in this area without compromising your ability to hire professionals.

Package deal. Some companies offer package deals on both videography and photography. You can save hundreds by booking both through the same company. Ask the company if it's possible to work within your budget to acquire both. (If you are booking multiple musicians for live music, consider this as well.)

Proximity to Atlantic City. Many professionals charge a travel fee because it's expensive to drive equipment around, especially if you factor in gas and tolls. If you hire an Atlantic City-based professional, you will likely avoid such fees.

Weather and location fees. Don't hire photographers that charge extra in the event of bad weather. Some photographers even charge more for beach weddings because of the potential effects of the elements on their equipment. This is a rip-off; avoid these vendors. If vendors are concerned with these costs, they should calculate them into their fees. Local vendors accustomed to filming at the shore should not charge such fees.

Do (some) yourself. Is the budget just impossible? Consider doing without the videographer. Instead, invest in some inexpensive Flip Video photography and entrust some friends and relatives to capture the moments on video. It won't be professional-caliber, but it will allow you to spend more on your professional-quality photography while still having a video record of the day.

Minimize hours. Many photographers charge an hourly rate. You can save money by limiting the hours he spends at your reception. Instead, purchase disposable cameras and leave them on the tables for guests. Ask the deejay to encourage guests to use the cameras. Though you'll get some goofy pictures, you won't have an unrecorded moment.


If you're having your wedding in an Atlantic City casino, don't forget to speak with your contact at the casino about video recording rules in the location. Many do not allow recording in the gaming areas but will allow recording equipment at private events. Be sure to let your videographer know about these rules.

Do you have other tips for budgeting for photography and videography in South Jersey? Please post them below in a comment.

This post was originally published on Examiner.com

Six Signs You're Overdoing Your Theme Wedding in New Jersey

7/3/2016

by Tara Bard, Contributing Writer

Theme weddings are exciting to plan and execute. New Jersey couples frequently go for themes encompassing beaches, casinos and seasons. When done subtly, a theme carries the spirit of your wedding through the entire event. If done poorly, guests might feel put off by the intense theme.

Here are some potential problems and ways to avoid them:

Hair too big, heels to high, muscles too massive, skin too tan. Like "Jerseylicious" or "Jersey Shore?" Awesome. Consider keeping it to yourself as you giggle over the to-be-released DVD sets. Generally, people in New Jersey aren't like people on those shows and some are even offended by them.

How to fix it: Consider a subtle beach theme instead.

Sand and shell overload! It's inexpensive and creative to emphasize a beach theme with shells or even live fish in the centerpieces at your reception, but if you fear your guests will complain of sand in their undies before the end of the ceremony, cut back on the theme.

How to fix it: Replace theme elements with beachy colors representing the sand and the sea.

Did the bride just lose her groom...in a bet? If your Atlantic City casino theme is too focused on cards and craps rather than the event of your lifetime, you might want to scale back. How to fix it: Work with tasteful casino party planners to tone down your theme without losing the fun.

It's a nautical nightmare. You know that cozy feeling you get when you're falling asleep after a day out on a boat? It's nice. However, you don't want guests feeling that way due to an overwhelming nautical theme. How to fix it: Include elements when possible instead of kitschy clip-art. Add water to your centerpieces instead of forcing the guests to look over large anchors and wheels all night, or think about something cute and affordable like goldfish crackers.


Seasonal overload. Seasons make for wonderful wedding themes, especially during summer. Guests are already aware of the season, however, so there's no need to break out the sunblock at the buffet table or provide them with candy corn favors after your fall wedding. How to fix it: Look to colors and elements to represent the seasons. Consider utilizing flowers that represent the season and its colors.

Medieval madness. Everyone makes fun of Medieval Times, but everyone loves the show. If the smell of horse manure intrudes upon your nuptial toast, however, you might need to put down that tiara and reconsider the extent of your theme. How to fix it: Dress up and have fun--but don't require your guests to wear medieval gear or participate in medieval games if they don't want to. Provide some consistency with a modern wedding in the way of music and events (like the garter toss) to keep everyone interested.

Do you have any additional advice for couples planning theme weddings in New Jersey? Please leave your comments below.

This post was originally published on Examiner.com.

How Far in Advance Should You Plan an Atlantic City Wedding?

7/3/2016

by Tara Bard, Contributing Writer

Many wedding planning and etiquette rules have changed over the last few decades. One of the core wedding planning necessities involves advance planning of the ceremony and reception venues. Depending on the place of worship and/or banquet center you wish to reserve, you'll need to plan well in advance. Generally, Atlantic City weddings accommodating a hundred guests or more require over a year of planning, two if possible.

If you don't have that kind of time, there are some things you can do to plan in under two years. This includes:

Maintaining flexibility on ceremony date and time
Using the economy to your advantage--venues are eager to book. If your date is taken, see what else they suggest.
Having the ceremony, reception and accommodations in the same location. Atlantic City easily accommodates this considering the amount of casinos there.
Retaining a wedding planner to do the wedding planning for you.
Subscribe to wedding magazines with a local focus to narrow your research.

If Atlantic City is the location of your destination wedding, you may wish to stay closer to the two-year advanced planning mark to give proper notification and 'save the dates' to guests needing to travel.

If you're intent on a wedding in a specific place of worship, know that it is now increasingly common for guests to drive from one location to another--up to a thirty minute drive--to get from wedding to reception.

Guests understand that it's expensive and time-consuming to prepare the perfect day, so don't worry about compromising on small details if they are unimportant to you. After all, this is your moment to shine--enjoy it!

Pros and Cons of Having an Off-Season Wedding in Atlantic City

7/3/2016

by Tara Bard, Contributing Writer

If you're considering an off-season wedding in Atlantic City, there are many pros and cons. While off-season weddings can offer more options for less money, just about every other person you invite may ask you why you'd want to skip out on summer at the shore for your big day.

If an Atlantic City off-season wedding is a possibility for you, consider making a pros and cons list specific to your needs. Here are some general advantages and disadvantages to help you get started:

Pros

All around, costs are lower when it's not summer at the shore.
Because so many people vacation and make plans in the summer, you'll likely have a higher attendance rate if you hold your wedding off-season.
Costs will be lower for guests. Even guests who live nearby will face lower gas prices during the off-season.
Fall-themed weddings are extremely popular right now. You can take advantage of this trend without compromising your ideal location.
You can plan your wedding in a shorter amount of time if you wish. Some Atlantic City venues book years out for events during peak season.
Guests who drive to the event won't have to deal with that pesky shore traffic.
You can focus on non-summer themes in Atlantic City during off months. Consider a Romanesque wedding at Caesar's.

Cons

If you have a winter ceremony, inclement weather can delay guests' flights and make road conditions difficult, especially down the shore.
While it may be easier for you to book your first choice venue for your reception or ceremony, some shore sites are completely closed during late fall and winter. This won't affect you if you want to stick to the casinos.
The weather will not be as ideal for a beach or boardwalk wedding.
If you're booking a year or two in advance and start your planning during fall or winter, you may have a difficult time getting in touch with vendors who are closed for the season.
Some venues or vendors will charge more for off-season services if they are normally closed.

Though it can be tough to get in touch with vendors during the off-season, many businesses now operate Web sites and Facebook fan pages year-round and there are more comprehensive wedding resource pages willing to point you in the right direction in any season.

What to Do When an Atlantic City Wedding Vendor Goes Out of Business

7/3/2016

by Tara Bard, Contributing Writer

It's no secret that Atlantic City was hit doubly-hard during the recession. Aside from suffering from the regular effects of economic uncertainty and patrons having less money to risk on gambling, the casinos lost business to now-legal Pennsylvania-based gambling facilities. While this has produced some excellent deals for couples planning weddings in Atlantic City, it's true that vendors throughout the region and the nation have closed their doors due to the difficult economic climate.

If this happens to you, you do have recourse.

If you haven't begun planning the details of your wedding yet, consider utilizing the following tips:

Word of mouth is the most effective type of marketing for the business--and the consumer. Talk to other New Jersey brides and grooms about their preferred vendors to find a reliable business.
Use a wedding planner. Wedding planners are usually 'in the know' and are among the first to get word about a business in trouble.
Check online. Use Yelp andGoogle reviews (they come up when you Google a business) to determine the current professional reality of a bridal business. Check recent reviews. Most Yelp users are also easy to contact and willing to elaborate.

If you find yourself in a tough position (the business has closed or failed to deliver a product), don't panic! You can still find an alternative. Here's how:

Use the economy to your advantage. Call another vendor immediately and explain your situation. If you've lost a lot of money, attempt to get a date reservation for a small fee until you can get the money back from the original vendor.
Contact the company who failed you. Remind them about the number of contacts you've made in the bridal industry and the number of people you know looking for wedding vendors. Send this in writing via certified mail and keep a copy.
File a civil suit against the closed company. You should include legal fees for your suit. Present a log of all letters written and phone calls made to the company when you go to court. Highlight the calls on your phone bill and include copies of all letters as well as the confirmation from the post office.

Once you've resolved the situation, warn other couples. Don't unprofessionally slander them multiple times on every social media site--but do consider posting a review on Yelp and providing the link to your friends. Tell your story honestly and sincerely, but wait until all legal matters are settled.

Remember, most wedding businesses are reliable and stable. Exceptions are unfortunate and they do happen--you can avoid disaster by doing research first.

How to Incorporate Hot Wedding Trends Into Your Atlantic City Wedding

7/3/2016

by Tara Bard, Contributing Writer

While everyone wants a wedding reflecting the personality and interests of the couple being wed, it's always helpful to include some of the hottest wedding trends to engage the guests and to provide a contemporary feel. If you're worried that some trends may oppose your Atlantic City wedding, fear not! Some of the latest trends work especially well with beach or casino weddings.

Eco-friendly wedding trends. Green is in! The shore is a great place for an eco-conscious ceremony and reception. Many guests may recall the days of trash (including needles) washing up on the Jersey shore, and they'll especially appreciate a fresh beach wedding with an eco-friendly theme. Recycled, fibrous paper works well for seashore-themed wedding invites because it looks a bit like sand. Natural elements like sea shells can also emphasize the importance of nature.

Personalized, practical favors. Personalized favors let your guests know you're think of them and are grateful for their presence! For a casino wedding, consider a shot glass or some usable poker chips in a personalized bag. Beach receptions could include small sea shell-shaped chocolates in a handy carry-away bag.

Beach and vintage glamor themes. The beach theme is simple to pull off in Atlantic City. As vintage glamor is also popular, consider renting a parlor room or more intimate reception space in a casino or hotel. Atlantic City is a location that thrived during much of the early 20th century, and if you're local, many guests will be thrilled to find a theme inspiring childhood memories.

Put it online! Many couples now opt to keep wedding planning journals and host wedding websites with additional information for guests online. This is a very helpful trend as you can provide instant updates to guests and friends near and afar. You can find several free beach or casino WordPress themes online to customize your site.

Wedding trend sources: Your Wedding Company | Stylish Wedding Ideas

Have you incorporated the latest trends into your Atlantic City wedding? Please provide some insight below!

This post was originally published on Examiner.com.

Jersey Shore Summer Outdoor Wedding: Tips for Keeping Guests Cool

7/3/2016

by Tara Bard, Contributing Writer

If you're having an outdoor wedding on the beach or in an outdoor location, it's important to consider the health and safety of your guests, musicians, officiant and attendants. The heat can mean health issues, especially for the young and elderly. Here are some ways to make everyone feel comfortable on your wedding day this summer.

Boardwalk refreshments. If you're having an Atlantic City wedding (or a ceremony in another location with a boardwalk) consider hiring one of the boardwalk vendors to provide refreshments at the beginning or end of your ceremony. Water ice and water are popular ways to stay cool. If you aren't having a boardwalk wedding, you should at least have some bottled water nearby for your guests.

Fans as programs. You can make or order a wedding program on a fan. Guests can use the fan programs to keep themselves cool during the ceremony without committing an etiquette faux pas by using a traditional program.

Seek out shade. When you're planning your ceremony location, check to see which areas have the most shade. Head out to your desired location around your ceremony time on a different day within weeks of your date to judge the sun intensity.

Ceremony length. Consider keeping your ceremony to 30 minutes or less barring any special requirements or spiritual obligations. This minimizes the amount of time your guests need to stay out in the hot day. If you can, consider an evening ceremony instead.

With all the fuss over making guests comfortable, it's easy to forget yourself, your intended and your wedding party. Everyone should have refreshments at hand on a hot day, especially water. Hydrated brides and grooms are much less likely to faint or overheat in hot weather.

This post was originally published on Examiner.com

Social Media Tips for South Jersey Brides

7/3/2016

by Tara Bard, Contributing Writer

Planning a wedding takes a great deal of time, and many shortcuts can lead to disaster if you're doing the planning yourself. Have you ever wished there was a way to magically find exactly what you're looking for? No worries--there is such a thing, and you're probably already using it--Twitter.

Twitter's gotten smarter. Instead of simply friending people you already know, it looks at your friends' locations and hobbies and suggests more Twitter users for you to follow. If you're tweeting a lot about weddings and you already have friends and contacts in Atlantic City (or any South Jersey region), pay attention! Twitter will suggest some helpful local wedding contacts.

Some local wedding pages are really overwhelming. Even the most organized sites offer a multitude of options. If you're limited on time, consider sending your question out into the Twitterverse. This can help with anything from I-do-venues to white wedding shoes. For example, you could tweet the following questions:

Desperately seeking a pair of white satin slippers, $50 or less, AC NJ
I need to find a wedding planner in Atlantic City NJ. Help?!
What's the best wedding magazine for South Jersey brides?
Can anyone recommend an Atlantic City wedding venue?
I'm getting married on 10/7/2016 - what's the weather like?

There are tons of vendors and wedding specialists out there just hoping for a tweet like yours. Even New Jersey's geekiest meteorologist will smile at the sight of your weather question. Tweeting is great because:

It helps you remember what you need to find when you don't have time to make a list.
Other brides and your friends might provide recommendations.
Vendors who answer customer questions on Twitter tend to be customer-oriented.
A good vendor can recommend more trustworthy vendors.
You can check any vendor's listing or reputation over on Yelp.

You can also use web-based applications like HootSuite to automatically update your Facebook page when you tweet. This will expose your questions to a wider audience whose opinions you value.

If you're active on Twitter, keep your eyes open on Wednesday. Wednesday is #ww or #weddingwednesday, meaning Twitter's all aglow with info from wedding specialists. Specifically, New Jersey area wedding professionals participate in Wedding Wednesday--and they'd love to help you. Try following @njwedding for important Wedding Wednesday updates!

How to Create a 'Boardwalk Empire' Wedding Theme for Your Atlantic City Wedding

7/3/2016

by Tara Bard, Contributing Writer

With the completion of its first season, HBO's "Boardwalk Empire" experienced instant popularity, partially due to its authentic treatment of Atlantic City and its lively prohibition-era personalities. (Locals will tell you that the characters in the show are very much based on historical figures.) The show's themes and fashions have also influenced everything from on-the-rack designs at malls to stylish vintage Atlantic City weddings.

Here are some things to consider if you're hoping to have a "Boardwalk Empire" wedding:

Alcohol...or Not

Liquor is often a sensitive subject during wedding planning, but the "Boardwalk Empire" theme provides a reason to have no alcohol, some alcohol or an all out bash. If you're opting for a dry wedding for personal or financial reasons, you can use the prohibition era as a lighthearted reason. The availability of beer only (or a simple champagne toast) could also be explained with this reason. An all-out bash with an open bar would also fit in well for a "Boardwalk Empire" theme--just pretend you're at Babette's with Nucky!

Inspired Photography

It isn't always easy for a couple to convey their wedding photo vision to a wedding photographer or videographer, but most creative types will be full of ideas at mention of a "Boardwalk Empire" theme. Photographs can include beach photos, boardwalk pictures and a few portraits as they would have been done in that era.

Fashion Forward

Fashion from the 1920s is making a comeback in era-inspired clothing in department stores. Whether you'd like a traditional long-sleeved wedding gown or a savvy flapper dress, your gown will fit in with the theme. Especially slender, less-busty brides may have particular luck looking the part considering the fashions of the day.

Wedding Venues and Landscape

While Atlantic City still retains a similar spirit to its 1920s self, many of the hotels and venues that existed during that time were demolished when Atlantic City legalized gambling in the 1970s (to make room for large casinos). Due to fires and storm damage, the boardwalk itself is not the same as the original, though still evokes the same feelings. Many gambling establishments and restaurants are providing a prohibition-era feel thanks to the success of "Boardwalk Empire," so shop around.

Other popular wedding themes are often inspired by earlier times, but a 1920s wedding allows for plenty of readily-available information. If you live locally, the Atlantic City Public Library and their Nucky’s Empire: The Prohibition Years exhibition may be of particular use.

The Cost of an Atlantic City Wedding

7/3/2016

by Tara Bard, Contributing Writer

New Jersey is notoriously expensive when it comes to wedding venue pricing. From band to cake to catering, New Jersey is a bit costly because of certain taxes. Shoreline locations such as Atlantic City are also associated with higher costs, as they are anywhere.

If you're wondering whether you can afford a wedding in Atlantic City, the answer is not simple. With legal gambling venues in Philadelphia, Atlantic City casinos are faced with even further declining revenues as they try to recover from the recession. If you're comfortable with bargaining, this could make your AC wedding a bit more affordable. Comparably, the 'Las Vegas of the East' is more affordable for local couples and their guests than a destination wedding to the real Las Vegas due to the costs of travel.

Most American couples spend between $15,000 and $25,000 on their wedding, not including the cost of the ring or honeymoon. According to CostOfWedding, the Atlantic City wedding budget is very close to those average prices.

To lower the cost of your Atlantic City wedding, consider the following before speaking to vendors:

Friday wedding - it's more of an inconvenience for most guests, but it will be less expensive.
Flexible wedding date - tell the venue that cost is a concern and you're willing to be flexible with dates.
Available seafood menu option - if you're going for seafood or surf and turf, skip the lobster and go with fish in-stock.
Aim for an off season wedding - off-season events are almost always less expensive to host in the shore region.
Shop around - especially if you're looking to have a casino wedding. Don't lock anything in until you've checked them all. If you don't get the right price from the right casino, call back and tell their scheduler what price the other casinos have offered for comparable services. Note that three of the top casinos are all Trump casinos; they'll be aware of the pricing plans at the other Trump casinos.

If you have an indoor alternate for weather (at a house, for example), a boardwalk wedding is something special. To obtain permission and permits, you'll have to go through the local government.

At nearly six miles, Atlantic City's boardwalk is the world's longest. An Atlantic City wedding would not be complete without photos of the boardwalk and ocean.

Wild (and Tame) Atlantic City Bachelorette Party Ideas

7/3/2016

by Tara Bard, Contributing Writer

Atlantic City is known for gambling and strip clubs. While you've likely ignored such venues when planning your wedding, they're popular locations when it comes to bachelorette party planning. Other brides prefer low-key entertainment options for a bachelorette party. Here are a few local ideas for those interested in either type of night out:

Spa Time

Enjoy a girl's day or evening out at a local spa. Many of the hotels and casinos offer spa service, so if you're looking for a girls' night in with wine and movies (or if you want to order a male stripper), you can start your day off with relaxing massages without leaving one location.
This is also ideal if you're planning to drink--by staying in one spot, no one needs to be a designated driver.

You can find spas in Atlantic City at the following locations:

Each of these spas is conveniently attached to a hotel.

Strip Clubs

If you're looking for a saucy time in AC, you can take the traditionally-wicked route by heading to some strip clubs. Strip clubs featuring males have become harder to find in the Greater Philadelphia area, but Atlantic City fortunately features several. Call ahead.

Club Dancing, Pole Dancing Lessons

For a tame night of fun, you can head to a regular club in Atlantic City. Most of the hotels and casinos feature some sort of 21+ night club environment. This is another great option if you do not want to worry about driving anywhere and are able to rent a hotel room. Regular night clubs include Club Providence.

If you're looking to do something on the wild side, consider taking pole dancing lessons. Your bachelorette party group can reserve a private lesson. Note: There aren't too many of these in AC, but there are several venues for this in Philadelphia.

Whether you're hoping for a girls' night in, a night of gambling, excellent DJs or male strippers, Atlantic City can certainly accommodate your bachelorette party experience.

A version of this post was originally published on Examiner.com

Atlantic City Spring and Summer Timeless Wedding Tips

7/3/2016

by Tara Bard, Contributing Writer

Atlantic City brides: Are you looking for a classic wedding theme appropriate for spring and summer weddings at the Jersey Shore? It can be a challenge if you're looking for something fashionable but timeless. Decades later, you'll want to look back on your photographs and remember the event itself rather than that mysterious big butt bow.

Here are some ways to accomplish the task:

Dress for the Weather

Storms move in fast during the spring and summer. Stay classy and keep your dress dry with a waterproof jacket and hat in case of storms.

A spare pair of shoes or sandals is also recommended in case of dampness.

Use the Scenery

If you're having a beach wedding or a reception in an elegant casino ballroom setting, use the scenery to your advantage. Country clubs, casinos and restaurants tend to have timeless design scapes, allowing them to replace linens and decor because it gets worn out--not because they look dated.

Base your floral arrangements and color schemes based on the choices of the interior design experts at your location.

Beach weddings require the basics--beyond that, nature sets the mood. Consider adding just a few accents such as ribbons and flowers to the chairs and podiums.

For wedding photos, the Atlantic City boardwalk has a life of its own--there's no need to move props around and stage things. A bride on the boardwalk draws plenty of attention.

Using a Wacky Theme? Be Obvious!

There's nothing worse than a wacky or adventurous theme done subtly. If you're having a St. Patrick's Day wedding down the shore, you should have more than a few stray shamrocks and flashes of green! Don't forget to 'do it up' to create those memories you want to see in photographs.

Do you have any additional tips for creating timeless style at an Atlantic City wedding? Please comment below.

This post was originally published on Examiner.com.

How to Personalize Your South Jersey Wedding

7/3/2016

by Tara Bard, Contributing Writer

Whether South Jersey couples plan their own weddings or hire a professional wedding planner to do it for them, many fall into common themes, traps and tropes that make their ceremonies trendy and impersonal. Fortunately, South Jersey offers plenty of natural and manufactured inspiration to help you personalize your wedding--and make it memorable for you and your guests.

It doesn't matter if you're DIY or have an unlimited budget. A wedding that isn't personal simply is not fun. Here's how you can take your cues from your environment to transform your wedding into something reflective of your relationship.

Favorite Places

Make a list of your favorite places--as a couple. When you and your spouse-to-be were younger, what were your favorite places around South Jersey or elsewhere? Where do you like to hang out with friends now? Places have meaning because of the people there.

Favorite Things

What are your favorite things about South Jersey? If you like to swim, surf or tan at the beach, think about how you could include the ocean or your favorite beach activities in your wedding.

Get Specific

What means the most to you and your future spouse? Your princess canopy from your childhood bed could be the fabric for a stunning DIY veil. Such sentimental inclusions will make the event memorable for you and your family.

To further personalize your ceremony and reception, you can ask your parents or future in-laws for advice on the details. This can make your family feel welcome since you are actively seeking their input--and it's particularly important if they've already disagreed with you on anything concerning the wedding.

Ideas include:

Using fabric from your mother's veil or wedding dress in your own
Toasting with the champagne flutes used by your parents at their wedding
Wearing a grandparent's jewelry as 'something borrowed'

To make your wedding truly South Jersey, incorporate nostalgia or local items like post cards. You can attach them to your wedding favors or paste them in your wedding guest book.

This article was originally published on Examiner.com

Tips for Stress-Free Wedding Dress Shopping in South Jersey

7/3/2016

by Tara Bard, Contributing Writer

Stress-free wedding dress shopping might seem like a dream, but it is possible to enjoy the experience of shopping for your wedding dress in South Jersey. You can achieve this through planning, patience and maintaining an assertive attitude when necessary.

Map It Out

Some areas have many bridal boutiques in one location. If you’re planning on making the trip to multiple destinations in South Jersey, it’s best to plan out the day and map out the locations. If you want to stick to one town at a time, try:

· Atlantic City
· Cape May
· Haddonfield
· Cherry Hill and Moorestown
· Berlin

If you’re meeting friends at various bridal salons, provide them with a list of addresses to stay on track. Organize a car pool and ensure that everyone has a GPS or knows how to get to the locations.

Follow the Rules

Each bridal salon has its own rules. Frequent rules include: supervise children, no food or drink and no photos allowed of dresses. Always follow the rules and don’t invite anyone along that may break these rules.

Bridal salon consultants vary, just like salon rules. If you feel uncomfortable, mistreated or misdirected, you’re the customer—and you’re allowed to leave if you don’t feel you’re being treated with respect.

Make Appointments

To cut down on stress and make best use of your time, call ahead to make appointments. It is kind to let the salon know how many will come with you and what types of dresses you are looking for.

You may also wish to mention if you or anyone in your bridal party wears a plus size. Prepare everyone for the fact that bridal sizes are much different than actual sizes and that a ‘regular’ size 12 might have difficulty fitting into any sample sizes.

Tip: Holding down a full-time job while planning a wedding is tough. Instead of cramming this important decision into a lunch hour, explain your situation to the salon consultant and mention a particular dress you’d like to try on that isn’t available elsewhere. Most likely, they’ll squeeze you in.

Party Sizes

Limit your party size. If possible, limit to the number of people that can fit in one vehicle, especially if you are making multiple trips. Make concessions for older relatives and children who may not be able to make more than a few stops in one day.

It’s best to pick a driver who knows South Jersey well. You’re the bride—let someone else handle the GPS navigation!

Do you have any favorite South Jersey bridal salons or dress shopping experiences? Please share them in the comments!

This post was originally published on Examiner.com.

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