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Sunday, May 19, 2013

Your Great Gatsby-inspired Dream Wedding

9:25 PM | Posted by Unknown | | Edit Post

This week sees the USA release of the much anticipated film The Great Gatsby. Director Baz Luhrman is famous for his big visuals and contemporary sound track - with films like Romeo and Juliet and Moulin Rouge. His film style is notoriously influential on the wedding scene, and The Great Gatsby will be no different...

At The White House Wedding Favors we’ve been dreaming about how this gorgeous, decadent film could inspire this year’s weddings.

It's definitely a vintage scene! Gatsby has all the glitz, glamour and romance you’d want for a roaring 1920’s theme. Glittery metallics, art deco patterns and dark corners. And imagine your wedding cake  sprayed in gold?
Flapper style bridesmaids dresses and lace hair-pieces would look gorgeous against a ballroom backdrop.

Fireworks and sparklers are a must have for your send-off - a magical end to a beautiful night.

Vintage theme weddings have been a staple for wedding scenes for a few years now, but the 1920's Gatsby style will bring both elegance and decadence to Twenties-inspired weddings. It’s lavish and yet playful and fun - so we say long live Gatsby!

 
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How to Choose A Wedding Theme

9:15 PM | Posted by Unknown | | Edit Post
It can seem like quite a daunting prospect - what do you want your wedding to look like and feel like? With so many blog-worthy weddings on the web, how do you know what style to go for? Some brides will have known what they wanted since they were pretending to be little women walking around in their mother's heels with a towel on their head, but for others the pressure is on to find the perfect theme.
The most important thing about your big day is that it’s personal, and it’s about you as a couple. Don't jump straight into pretending to know what someone else might have done, instead start by thinking about what's really important to them.
Think about what it was that brought you two together. Did you meet at a coffee shop? Did you both bond immediately while working out on he stairmaster? Was your first date somewhere special?
Another great place to start is to look to your favourites - book, film, music, places. There will always be something to take inspiration from, and it feels more important and personal than just picking any old theme.
Maybe an Eiffel Tower proposal could turn into a full-on Parisian wedding soiree, a shared love of books could lead to a literary themed day, or two sports fanatics can enjoy a fun, sporty outdoor wedding.

A wedding theme doesn’t have to be overpowering, however, it can be brought out in the details.
If you're really stuck, pick your favourite colours! All that matters is that it feels special to you, and that you’ve put your brand on your big day.
 
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Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Hispanic Wedding Traditions

1:42 PM | Posted by Unknown | | Edit Post
The Hispanic culture is rich with traditions that can add depth and special meaning to your wedding day. Be sure to explain the symbolism of the Latino traditions and customs used in your wedding. Your non-Latino guests will be charmed and informed and your Latino guests will be proud that you are celebrating your heritage.
Ceremony
Traditionally, a Hispanic wedding or Matrimonio is deeply spiritual and involves a full mass in a Roman Catholic Church. The Novia (bride) and Novio (groom) and their attendants stand or kneel at the Church’s alter. Prayers are said for the couple as they begin their life together.  
Madrinas Y Padrinos
In Mexico, sponsors called padrinos act as mentors to the couple throughout the engagement and marriage. They are usually people who have played an important role in the lives of the bride and groom. The Padrinos help the bride and groom pay for the wedding. In addition to agreeing to pay for different aspects of the wedding, they also take part of the church services. For example, they may put the lazo around the couple during the ceremony or present the couple with the madrina de arras.
El Lazo
As part of the ceremony to symbolize unity, an extra-long strand of rosary beads or Lazo is placed in a figure eight shape around the necks of the couple after they have exchanged their vows. The symbolism of the lazo is to show the union and protection of marriage. Often, specific members of the wedding party are responsible for "lassoing" the Bride and Groom together after they kneel for the wedding prayer. Sometimes a white satin cord or rope is draped around the shoulders of the Bride and groom. Tradition requires the couple to wear the lasso for the remainder of the service. This act is symbolic of their love, which should bind the couple together everyday as they equally share the responsibility of marriage for the rest of their lives. 
Las Arras
This wedding custom originated in Spain and consists of the groom giving the bride thirteen gold coins or arras to represent his commitment to support her. In Spain, thirteen represent Christ and his twelve apostles. The symbolism is often explained by the officiant that the Groom pledges his ability to support and care for his bride. The arras and the madrina de arras, an ornate box or gift tray that holds the coins often become a part of the family heirloom. 
Reception
The Latino wedding reception is family oriented and festive. For the bridal couple's first dance, guests will gather in a heart-shaped ring at the reception around the couple. Salsa, merengue, mambo, flamenco, and samba music add a festive Latin flare to the reception. For appetizers, try pasteles, Puerto Rican meat patties, or empanadas, Colombian pastries stuffed with meat and vegetables. Spanish tapas make perfect appetizers. Other must-have dishes include rice and beans, paella, arroz con pollo or chicken with rice, and fried plantains.
In Puerto Rico, a doll dressed in a replica of the bridal gown, is placed on the head table at the reception. It might also be placed on the cake table. Little mementos or favors, called capias are attached to the doll. During the reception, the bride and groom will walk to each person pin a capia on them and thank them for their presence at the wedding. The capias have the couple’s names and wedding date inscribed on them.
The Mexican wedding cake is usually a fruit cake that has been soaked in rum. Also served are Pastelitos De Boda.  These are delicous Mexican cookies made of sugar and nuts.  During Cuban wedding receptions, wedding guests partake in the traditional money dance, where each man who dances with the new bride must pin money to her dress, to help the newlyweds with their honeymoon expenses. 
Wedding Attire
Latina brides have a wide variety of options for their vestido de novia or wedding dress. In Mexico, the bride might don a brightly colored, Flamenco-style dress with ruffles at the hem. While some brides chose a traditional wedding dress, in Spain, brides wear a black gown to symbolize their devotion till death. Also popular in Spain is the mantilla veil. The triangular veil with beautiful lace edging can be worn for a subtle Latin feel. The groom may choose to wear a guayabera, a light, short-sleeved shirt perfect for tropical temperatures.
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Irish Wedding Traditions

1:39 PM | Posted by Unknown | | Edit Post
 

Irish wedding customs and traditions are thousands of years old. Irish culture includes an enduring belief in the supernatural and deeply religious spirituality. Today, couples are eager to connect with their heritage and are incorporating Irish customs and traditions in their wedding celebration.
Ceremony
The Republic of Ireland is predominantly Catholic and the wedding ceremony reflects this tradition. English Lavender is often included in an Irish bride’s bouquet, not only for it’s lovely scent but also because it is said to bring luck to the bride. Many Irish brides will carry a lucky horseshoe down the aisle. The horseshoe can be made of any material; though porcelain is the most popular. Tie the horseshoe around your bouquet with a pretty ribbon. After the wedding, the horseshoe is typically hung with the ends pointed up over the newlyweds’ front door for good luck. 
Honeymoon
The modern honeymoon is thought to have originated from ancient Irish culture. In Ireland, the first lunar month after the wedding is called the "mi na meala," or "month of honey". It is tradition for the Irish family to present the newlyweds with enough honey wine to last through the month of honey. Wine goblets are also given to accompany the wine. 
The Claddaugh
In Ireland, the most popular style of wedding rings is the Claddagh. This ring depicts two hands holding a heart which is topped with a crown. The hands represent friendship, the heart love, and the crown loyalty. This ring has several legends surrounding it dating back to medieval times. One tale behind the Claddagh refers to a man in ancient Galway who was engaged to be married when was taken prisoner by pirates to a far away land. During that time he taught himself the art of jewelry-making. When he finally returned home, he was so happy to find that his wife-to-be had never married that he created the now famous Claddagh wedding band for his wife.
Celtic Knot
Incorporating beautiful intricate Celtic designs in your wedding is a wonderful way to acknowledge your Irish ancestry. The Celtic love knot is a pattern created by using continuous, unending lines that intertwine. The design represents eternity, unity, and fidelity. 
Wedding Attire
There are several options for wedding bridal dresses. Many Irish brides choose to wear a traditional white wedding gown. There are several designers that specialize in traditional Celtic wedding dresses. Designers can embroider your gown with Irish symbols like the Celtic knot. Handmade Irish lace is gorgeous and can be used on your veil and/or dress. Irish linen handkerchiefs are also a charming way to incorporate Irish culture and work well to dry those happy tears.
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Chinese Wedding Traditions

1:38 PM | Posted by Unknown | | Edit Post
Seeing Red
Chinese weddings typically feature bright red and gold colors for everything from the bride's dress to the decorations to the wedding invitations. Red symbolizes love, joy, and prosperity. Conversely, white signifies death and is often used in funerals. Consequently, there is very little white in a traditional Asian wedding. Red Asian paper lanterns are a wonderful way to decorate.
Double Happiness
Two of the Chinese character "xi" or joy are positioned side by side to create a single character known as double happiness. This very popular character symbolizes the couple's union and wish of a happy life for the couple. Double happiness can be seen throughout traditional Chinese weddings including invitations, decorations, cakes and more. 
Tea Ceremony
In China, tea is an integral part of an engagement and traditional wedding ceremony. To honor their elders, the bride and groom will offer cups of tea as a gesture of respect. The contemporary bride and groom may choose to incorporate this ageless ritual during the ceremony by serving tea to the parents and new in-laws. Couples can also offer tea to guests in the form of unique wedding favors that celebrate this tradition. 
Hong Bao
Hong Bao are bright red and gold envelopes that hold money or jewelry from guests. These make great wedding favors to thank your guests for sharing in your day. 
Wedding Attire
A popular trend is for the bride to wear one dress for the wedding and one for the reception. In China, traditional brides may change dresses up to three times throughout the wedding day. A different dress is worn for the tea ceremony, the wedding ceremony, and the reception. The bride's attire usually consists of a silk red brocade dress called a cheung sam. Depending on the region where she's from, the bride may also don a two-piece jacket and skirt called a hung kwa. Both the bride and groom may wear brocades that feature a dragon and a phoenix. The dragon and the Phoenix originated in Asian mythology. The Chinese dragon symbolizes the groom and the Phoenix, a crested bird with a long tail represents the bride.
Ceremony
A Chinese wedding ceremony is mostly quiet. Remembering departed ancestors is a very important part of Chinese customs. Traditional Chinese couples often, set aside a table or altar decorated with white flowers for the ancestors.
Reception
A traditional Chinese wedding will include a lavish reception or banquet that can include a 10 course meal to celebrate the union. Chinese delicacies including, shark's fin soup, bird's nest soup, and a whole fish are often served. 
Guest Book
The traditional Chinese wedding guestbook is made of silk. The cover is red and the edges are detailed with embroidery. The dragon and Phoenix are often depicted on the guestbook cover. Wedding guests sign their names and messages on a cloth using a black pen. 
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Greek Wedding Traditions

1:36 PM | Posted by Unknown | | Edit Post

Greek wedding traditions are rich with religious symbolism and like many other cultures; marriage is seen as a continuation of Greek culture and the uniting of two families, not just the wedding couple. Though there are a variety of wedding ceremony styles, the majority tend to include a full religious Greek Orthodox ceremony.
Holy Trinity
The symbol of the Holy Trinity - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is an important aspect of the Greek Orthodox religion and is incorporated symbolically within the wedding celebration. Many of the ceremony rituals are performed in series of threes.
Koumbaros
The Koumbaros is an honored guest that participates in the wedding ceremony. Traditionally, the Koumbaros is the groom’s godfather. Today, he is usually the best man. He assists with the crowning of the couple and the exchange of the rings three times between the bride and groom before it is placed on the bride and groom’s third fingers.
Stefana
Stefana are metal crowns or floral wreaths, sometimes attached with ribbon, are placed on the heads of the bride and groom as a symbol of God bestowing his blessings in the form of crowns. The crowns are generally connected by a ribbon to symbolize the couple's eternal bond as husband and wife.
Ceremony
The Greek Orthodox wedding ceremony consists of two parts, the Service of Betrothal, and the Sacrament of Marriage. The Service of Betrothal includes the exchanging of rings which have been blessed by the priest. It is Greek tradition that the bride and groom are honored as queen and king for the day. During the Sacrament of Marriage, the couple receives lighted candles to hold throughout the service. The Koumbaros bestows the couple with crowns called stefana while the couple holds hands. This is followed by religious readings and the consumption of wine. The couple is then walked around an altar three times to represent their everlasting journey. The stefana is then removed and the couple declared married.
Reception
Greek wedding receptions are festive and include savory foods, plenty of wine, singing and dancing. Traditional Greek dishes such as dolmathes, kapama, moussaka, spetsiota, and spanakopita may be served. Ouzo, a licorice flavored liqueur and wine are the drinks of choice. Diples, fried pastries made of honey and nuts are usually displayed on the same table as the wedding cake.  The famous Kaslamantiano or “Circle dance”, involves two circles that form around the bride while guests throw money at the musicians and break dishes for good luck. At the reception, a bag containing an odd number of koufetta or candy-coated almonds also known as Jordan almonds are distributed to guests as a favor. The odd number symbolizes the couple’s unity since odd numbers can’t be divided evenly. 
Pomegranate
It is a tradition in Greece to break a pomegranate on the ground at weddings. It is a symbol of abundance, fertility and good luck. Pomegranate decorations for the home are very common in Greece.
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Italian Wedding Traditions

1:33 PM | Posted by Unknown | | Edit Post

Ceremony
There are several charming Italian traditions to incorporate in your wedding ceremony. Roman Catholicism is Italy's primary religion. So a traditional Italian wedding ceremony typically consists of a full Catholic mass. In Italy, June is the favored month and Sunday is the favorite day for weddings. The Italian wedding tradition of tying ribbons to the chapel entrance, symbolizes a new wedding bond. The ribbons signify the tying together of two lives. The ever popular dove release is a relatively new tradition. It symbolizes the love and affection the newlyweds have for each other. 
Reception
Traditionally, the wedding reception begins with an antipasti course of cheeses, olives, mushrooms, and pickled sweet peppers. This course is followed by subsequent courses that include delicious pastas, savory meats, salads, soups, and succulent desserts like Farfallete Dolci, and italian cookie.  The drink of choice is wine and grappa.
The Tarantella is a dance performed at wedding receptions to wish the couple a long future together. Participants form a circle and dance in a clockwise direction, until the music speeds up and the dancers must change direction. The tempo changes several times, each time forcing the dancers to change direction and dance even faster. The Tarantella continues until it becomes impossible to keep up, and the dance falls apart. At the conclusion of an Italian wedding reception, it's customary to break a glass or vase. The number of shards is said to predict the number of happy years the couple will have together.
Bomboniere
Italian favors called bomboniere are pretty little baskets or boxes that come in a variety of shapes and colors. Sometimes a bigliettino or ribbon personalized with the couple's names and wedding date is attached. The bomboniere are traditionally filled with sugar-coated almonds or confetti to symbolize that marriage is both bitter and sweet. The number of almonds given is significant because odd numbers are considered lucky. Three almonds represent fertility, while five almonds signify wishes for wealth. Sometimes the confetti is thrown at the newlyweds in lieu of rice. Bomboniere can also be filled with chocolates or other types of candies. 
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African American Wedding Traditions

1:31 PM | Posted by Unknown | | Edit Post




Many African Americans choose to include their heritage in their special day. There are countless ways to honor your ancestors during your wedding ceremony and reception. You may also choose to add ethnic touches to the bridal shower and wedding party gifts. Wedding customs and rituals vary from region to region in Africa. Yet there are some customs that have a common thread in African values, views, and experiences which provide uniformity. In general, African marriages celebrate the uniting of two families. Introducing aspects of your culture during the wedding ceremony and/or reception is a way of celebrating your heritage and ancestry.
Tying the Knot
In some African tribes, the bride and groom have their wrists tied together with cloth or braided grass to represent their marriage. Today's modern couples may choose to have the officiant or a close friend tie their wrists together with a piece of kente cloth or a strand of cowrie shells during the ceremony while stating the wedding vows. 
Libation Ceremony
To honor their ancestors, some Africans pour Holy water, or alcohol, onto the ground as prayers are recited to the ancestral spirits. Some African American couples choose to incorporate a libation ceremony as an opportunity to honor those that have recently passed away.
Jumping the broom
This is a well-known tradition whose origin is up for debate. During the slavery era, since African slaves were forbidden to marry in America, they would make a public declaration of their love and commitment by jumping over a broom to the beat of drums. Today, this ritual's significance is agreed upon to be a symbol for the start of the couple making a home together. It has become very popular for African-American couples to "Jump the broom" at the conclusion of their wedding ceremony. The broom, often handmade and beautifully decorated, can be displayed in the couple's home after the wedding.
Kola Nuts
The Kola nut is most often used for medicinal purposes in Africa. It is also essential in most African weddings. The Kola nut symbolizes the couple's willingness to always help heal each other. In Nigeria, the ceremony is not complete until a kola nut is shared between the couple and their parents. Many African-American couples incorporate the sharing of a kola nut into their ceremonies, and then keep the nut in their home afterwards as a reminder to always work at healing any problems they encounter.
Tasting the Four Elements
In this Yoruba ritual, the bride and groom taste four flavors that represent different emotions within a relationship. The four flavors typically used are sour (lemon), bitter (vinegar), hot (cayenne), and sweet (honey). By tasting each of the flavors, the couple symbolically demonstrates that they will be able to get through the hard times in life, and, in the end, enjoy the sweetness of marriage.
Wedding Attire
Depending on where they are from, the African bride's attire will represent the area with exciting colors and meaningful designs. Some African-American couples choose to convey their heritage through clothing. The possibilities are endless. It can be as simple as bridesmaids wrapped in African shawls and groomsmen with Kente cloth cummerbunds and bowties, or as elaborate as the groom and groomsmen in traditional Nigerian garb called agbada. In Ghana, Kente is used as wedding attire for the bridal party. Nigerian brides and bridesmaids typically don a bubah, an elegant four piece ensemble that includes a long outer wrap and matching headpiece. Today's brides may also choose to wear an African-inspired gown with African Adinkra symbols included in the fabric. The brides may wear their hair in braids with ornaments on their wrists and necks bejeweled. 
Adinkra Symbols
AKOMAGYE NYAMEME WARE WOOSRAM NE NSOROMMA
Wearing an African-inspired gown with Adinkra symbols woven into the fabric is a special way to incorporate African tradition in your wedding. Adinkra symbols are common in Western African societies; specifically Ghana, a country situated on the Atlantic between Togo and the Ivory Coast. Adinkra symbols were adapted by the Asante people of Ghana. The symbols represent different concepts or ideas. Adinkra symbols can be found everywhere in Ghana including fabrics, walls, pottery and logos. Some common Adinkra symbols used in weddings include, Akoma, Me Ware Wo, Gye Nyame, and Osram Ne Nsoromma. Akoma is a heart symbol that signifies patience and tolerance. Gye Nyame signifies the supremacy of god. Me Ware Wo symbolizes commitment and perseverance. Osram Ne Nsoromma is a stands for the harmony that exists in the bond between a man and a woman. 
Cowrie Shells
Cowrie shells, indigenous to West Africa represent fertility and prosperity. Cowrie shells are a significant favorite used in bridal attire. Use of the shell design in favors, food serving, cakes and decoration or table centerpieces express the tradition.
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