HELP! My parents are very religious but I don’t want to get married in the church! By Katie Swift

What a difficult situation! It’s your big day but your parents’ opinion is obviously important (and they may be footing the bill!) Here are some suggestions to help you compromise.

1. Offer to let your parents choose an officiant (just make sure you meet and are comfortable with them ahead of time)

2. Many churches have the option of blessing the marriage. This may include a separate ceremony on a different day.

3. If your parents are helping pay for your big day, offer to pay for your venue. It may help you feel like you have more control over the decision.

4. Sit down with your parents and discuss why a church marriage is so important to them. Does the physical location really matter if the ceremony is religious and/or presided over by a priest/pastor? (keep in mind that a few religions have specific criteria regarding validity of weddings, check with your own church) 

By: Katie Swift

Secrets to Planning a Wedding At Home By Katie Swift

At Home Weddings are a great way to share something personal, besides the wedding itself, and can also help save a little money. Here are some secrets of the pro's to help make your at home wedding one for the books. 

1.You may need a permit-many cities require a permit or have regulations regarding parties in residential neighborhoods. Double check ahead of time so you aren’t surprised on your big day. It also can’t hurt to let your neighbors know ahead of time.

2. Make sure there is enough space!

3. Plan for bad weather. If there isn’t enough space to move your event indoors, make plans for a tent to protect guests against rain, snow, wind and sun.

4. Make sure there are enough restrooms for your guests! No one likes to wait in line for 30 minutes, it may cause your guests to leave early.

5. Consider hiring a day-of coordinator. Even if you plan your own wedding, a day-of coordinator will ensure that your special day runs smoothly and will handle last minute emergencies. 

At home weddings are a great alternative to separate churches and reception venues, it can also be a great undertaking that should never be taken lightly. 

By: Katie Swift

Healthy and Happy: Better Alternatives for Kids Parties By: Katie Swift

Snacks and sweet treats are a favorite at children’s parties, but they can be full of sugar and preservatives. Here are some healthy options for your next birthday party! 

 -Chocolate dipped strawberries

-Fresh fruit kabobs drizzled with chocolate

-Slushies with fresh fruit and ice

-Frozen yogurt with a topping bar

-baked chips

-popcorn

-oven baked fries or sweet potato fries

-goodie bags with toys and art supplies instead of candy

By: Katie Swift

Kids Party Themes and Favors: Fun and Fabulous By Katie Swift

 Children's parties can have extravagant themes, or remain cute and quaint. No matter the theme of the party the snacks and treats may be the only thing the kids truly care about, so why not make it just as fun as the theme itself.

How about a Kitty Themed Party: Kids love the idea of cuddly and cute kittens, and the pixi-stix as whiskers only adds to the fun!

If animal themed parties aren't the right fit, try a butterfly theme for girls, or bug theme
for boys.








How about a sports themed party?!? Boys at any age will love some of the treats and deserts that go with a sports themed event.  Whether its baseball, football or any other sport. 

 By: Katie Swift

www.amemorylaneevent.com 
Event Planning / Wedding Planning / Coordinating / Decor / Invitations

Save the Dates: Crafty and Creative By: Katie Swift

Tired of the same old save the date magnets? Try save the date chocolate bars! Aren’t these a cute way to announce your big day?

By: Katie Swift

Double Wedding: Dazzling or Drab By Katie Swift

 Should you have a double wedding?

Kate Hudson and Anne Hathaway proved in the 2009 movie "Bride Wars" that there are pros and definite cons to throwing a double wedding. Sharing your wedding day with a friend or sister may seem like a great way to save money and share a celebration. But is it really a good idea?

To have a double wedding, it is essential that the brides have EXCELLENT communication. Planning a double wedding can make or break your relationship with the other bride. It is essential to find out ahead of time if your wedding day wishes are compatible.

If you have the same family, a double wedding allows the family to celebrate both marriages at the same time. A double wedding can be beneficial to your budget as well. Being able to split costs with another couple may allow you to have a bigger or more extravagant event.

Still not sure? Consider having two separate ceremonies and sharing a wedding reception. 

By: Katie Swift

www.amemorylaneevent.com 
Event Planning / Wedding Planning / Coordinating / Decor / Invitations