
Wedding Planners Reveal: "The #1 Tip I Wish I'd Known Before My Wedding"
By: Perri O. Blumberg

Photo Credit: Mayu's Cakes on Lover.ly
Tip of the Day: Instead of saving the top cake tier for your first anniversary, pre-cut it into 12 slices and freeze them. "Remove one slice each month on the date of your wedding. That way, you can celebrate all year long!" says Lori Maslowski, the director of catering at The Rittenhouse in Philadelphia.
Plus, check out 5 Fabulous Wedding Cake Creations.

We love how the sun highlights the couple in this romantic photo!
Christmas brings out everyone's wildest wedding fantasies. We're drawn to its technicolor lights, the grand sense of tradition, and elaborate ornamentation. Above all, the holiday spirit of togetherness magnifies what's already supposed to be one of the happiest days of your life. We've compiled some of our favorite holiday-themed ideas from real weddings submissions — consider them a gift from us to you. Good luck to all of our holiday brides!
This intricate and budget-friendly centerpiece is proof that you don't need to go overboard with flowers to transform your reception space into a Christmas wonderland.
Related: 25 DIY Wedding Centerpieces (That Don't Look Homemade)
Photo Credit: Rachel Pearlman Photography
Recreate this stunning backdrop with massive candles in different shapes and sizes.
Photo Credit: Bethany Ann Photography
Buy hurricane candle holders in bulk, and fill them with sparkling votives and crystals.
Related: Stay Under Budget With These 25 Dollar Store Wedding Hacks
Photo Credit: Shoreshotz
Light up your walk down the aisle with festive pew decorations (alternate them on different rows to cut costs).
Photo Credit: VP Studios Photography
If you prefer a darker color palette, add some holiday cheer with matching red pumps.
Photo Credit: Corlis Gray Photography
Dramatic lashes, scarlet lips, a high neckline, and a keyhole back: This bride pulls it all off effortlessly.
Photo Credits: Bethany Ann Photography
According to ancient folklore, the Druids regarded holly as a sacred plant and believed it had magical powers of protection. What better plant to include in your groom's boutonnière?
Photo Credit: Bethany Ann Photography
The garland-wrapped staircase makes a picturesque room even more breathtaking.
Photo Credit: Corlis Gray Photography
Adorn the most adorable member of your bridal party with a back-tied bow.
Photo Credit: Katie Stoops Photography
Float down the aisle in a gown with textured tiers that are light as snow.
Photo Credit: Jessica Svoboda Photography
Include your favorite holiday tunes in the music playlist for a rollicking good time. "Baby, It's Cold Outside" by Zooey Deschanel and Leon Redbone is a sweet first dance pick.
Related: The Complete Guide to Wedding Music
Photo Credit: Corlis Gray Photography
Take advantage of your town's holiday décor for some gorgeous wedding photos!
Photo Credit: Hoffer Photography
Even the most reserved elderly relative won't be able to resist cracking a smile in these holiday-themed getups. Rudolph ears, anyone?
Photo Credit: Hoffer Photography
Pinecones are a fun, wintry addition to a Christmas-inspired bouquet.
Photo Credit: Rachel Pearlman Photography
At this evening wedding, each bridal party attendant carried a pillar candle as they made their way towards the altar.
Photo Credit: Hoffer Photography
One of the biggest perks of being a Christmas bride is that if you're getting married in a church, it will already be decked out in all its splendor, so you don't have to order as many flowers and other décor.
Photo Credit: Hoffer Photography
Blow some snow into the camera for a memorable photo, like this one! (Save the hijinks until after the ceremony so that you don't get any wet spots on your dress).
Photo Credit: Hoffer Photography
If only rings grew from pine cones and trees...
Related: 75 of the Prettiest Engagement Rings
Photo Credits (from left to right): Rachel Pearlman Photography and Kristen Hornberger Photography
These little guys stole the show with their knee-high socks, suspenders, and a hat Grandpa would wear.
Photo Credit: Jason Kaczorowski Photography
A fleet of reindeer is a fun addition to any party. The ones shown here are whimsical without being too literal or over-the-top.
Photo Credit: Rachel Pearlman Photography
Green calligraphy and a red wax seal are chic homages to the holiday.
Related: Wedding Invitations by Style: Find the Right Fit for Your Wedding
Photo Credit: Sarah Crowder Photography
Does your groom have a quirky sense of style? A patterned vest or tie helps him stand out from the groomsmen.
Photo Credit: Robin Nathan Photography
Darling bows add a girly touch to these red-hot heels.
Photo Credit: Rachel Pearlman Photography
Rhinestone-encrusted roses and evergreen make this low-lying centerpiece a standout.
Photo Credit: Rachel Pearlman Photography
Give rustic pillars an upgrade by wrapping them in twinkling lights (ask your venue for permission first).
Photo Credit: Rachel Pearlman Photography
A five-tiered dessert masterpiece with its own VIP area isn't in most brides' budget. However, anyone can steal this trick and enhance their cake with a lush tablecloth — no six-figure digits required.
Photo Credit: Jaxon Photography
Display your invitation on a mantel, surrounded by thick garlands and ornaments.
Photo Credit: VP Studios Photography
Midnight blue tuxes are made all the more dapper with plush scarves. We're loving how easy it is to spot the groom.
Photo Credit: Hoffer Photography
A bedazzled ball gown is a regal choice for Christmastime brides.
Related: 50+ Beautiful New Wedding Dresses You Need to See Now
Photo Credit: Jenna Leigh Wedding Photography
Put the finishing touch on your gown with a ribbon belt featuring clusters of crystals.
Photo Credit: Ashfall Mixed Media
When an all-white cake is illuminated with light, it's easier to spot patterns and delicate details that might be missed in a darker setting.
Photo Credits: Shoreshotz
Transport guests with a colorful trolley or bus.
Photo Credit: Corlis Gray Photography
Make a dazzling first impression on your guests when they walk into your reception space. Stack gift-wrapped favors underneath a towering Christmas tree. Or, if you're not planning on giving out favors, you can gift-wrap empty boxes to create the same scene.
Photo Credit: Corlis Gray Photography
Or guide guests to their tables with snowflake frames.
Photo Credit: Rachel Pearlman Photography
Rustic and glamorous, this arrangement features flowers and greenery in contrasting hues and textures.
Photo Credit: Brogen Jessup Photography / Bouquet: Blooming Hites
The cherry shade looks ultra-flattering on all of the bridesmaids' skin tones.
Related: 75 Stylish Bridesmaid Dresses That Define #SquadGoals
Photo Credit: Lang Thomas Photography / Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie
Add a wintry feel to your groomsmen's boutonnières with Dusty Miller leaves and a wrapped stem in silver fabric.
Photo Credit: Echard Wheeler Photography / Event Design & Coordination: Antonia Christianson Events
Break out a little bubbly or sparkling wine topped with fun garnishes to toast the season.
Photo Credit: Nudrat Owens Photography / Event Design & Coordination: Anais Events
Striking and modern, this bouquet combines red blooms with different textures.
Photo Credit: Robin Nathan Photography / Event Coordination and Design: Alchemy Event Studio
Cocktail napkins with cheeky holiday sayings add personality to your bar setup.
Photo Credit: Foxtail Photography / Event Design & Coordination: La Cosa Bella Events
Live in a warm climate all-year round? Consider a light, breathable fabric for all of your bridal party attire.
Photo Credit: Krista Mason Photography / Bridesmaid Dresses: Joanna August
Decorate your tables with boughs of holly topped with antique lanterns.
Photo Credit: Katie Osgood Photography / Event Design and Coordination: Jove Meyer Events / Flowers: Sprout Home / Venue: The Green Building
Dress up a bare wall with an oversized wreath.
Photo Credit: Katie Osgood Photography / Event Design and Coordination: Jove Meyer Events / Flowers: Sprout Home / Venue: The Green Building
Add geometric table accents for an urban-chic twist.
Photo Credit: Amy Harris Photography / Event Design & Coordination: Fête Nashville
A long table setting with greenery running down the center is on-trend while still maintaining a subtle holiday vibe.
Photo Credit: Conrhod Zonio Photography / Venue: Events At GlenLary Estate
For a holiday twist on a "naked cake," top it with a decadent glaze and cranberries.
Photo Credit: Essence Photography
Add a Christmas-inspired bridal portrait to your must-have shot list.
Photo Credit: Freebird Photography / Wedding Gown: Celia Grace
Glittery gold gowns make a chic statement.
Photo Credit: Bryce Covey Photography / Event Design and Coordination: Bridal Bliss
Replicate this enchanting dessert display for the holiday season.
Photo Credit: Arielle Doneson Photography / Event Design & Coordination: Shi Shi Events
We love this stylish groom's velvet bow tie and feathered boutonnière.
Photo Credit: Kaemere Photography & Design / Planner: JBK Events / Accessories: Over The Moon Bridal / Rentals: CORT Party Rental / Hair & Makeup: Yuliana Huerta
Set a romantic tone for the evening with dramatic candelabras.
Photo Credit: Half Full Photography / Décor: Organic Elements
Design a regal tablescape with a gilded menu card, napkins, and even flatware.
Paper Goods: Mysty And Bella Designs
Have your caterer set up a "bubble bar" with champagne and a variety of fruits and syrups so that guests can customize their drinks.
Photo Credit: Brian Leahy Photography / Catering: Modern Art Catering
How cool are these laser-cut reindeer table accents?
Photo Credit: Steele Photography / Event Design & Coordination: Luxe Event Productions
Decorate the chairs along the aisle with ornaments and berries that match your color scheme.
Photo Credit: Debra Gulbas Photography
Incorporate the festive occasion into your favors, like this couple who decided to give out Christmas tree ornaments.
Photo Credit: Jennifer Weems Photography
No Christmas-themed wedding is complete without darling ornament escort cards tied with a bow.
Photo Credit: Brian Dorsey Studios
Add holiday cheer to your reception space by filling glass vases with ornaments that match your wedding color palette.
Related: 15 Non-Floral Centerpieces So Stunning, You Won't Miss Flowers
Photo Credit: The Youngrens
For the perfect finishing touch, try adding a sprig of fir to the backs of your ceremony or reception chairs.
Photo Credit: Nine Photography on Ruffled Blog via The Bridal Detective
Pine needle sprigs make for fun and creative place cards.
Photo Credit: Sean Flanigan Photography via The Bridal Detective
Love all things rustic? Add an unexpected, whimsical touch with this pinecone installation.
Photo Credit: Janet Howard Studio via The Bridal Detective
If you're blessed with a White Christmas where you live, steal a private moment alone with your groom for a stunning snowy snapshot.
Photo Credit: Mila Jackson Photography
These showstopping table numbers feature an illustrated wreath motif and red tied bow.
Photo Credit: Mila Jackson Photography
Dash away, dash away, dash away all. Santa would approve of a horse-drawn sleigh!
Photo Credit: Lis Photography
A faux fur stole in white or ivory is a must-have for outdoor photos.
Photo Credit: Jenna Marie Weddings
Dress your bridesmaids in one-shoulder column gowns in a vibrant green hue.
Photo Credit: Jenna Marie Weddings
Add some Christmas sparkle to your invitation suite with a gold belly band and a confetti insert.
Photo Credit: Jenna Leigh Wedding Photography
A cake with edible gold leaf imparts a luxe and celebratory vibe.
Photo Credit: Jenna Leigh Wedding Photography
Or you can incorporate silver Brunia Berries for an elegant touch.
Photo Credit: Jenna Leigh Wedding Photography
Tip of the Day: Are you a DIY queen when it comes to your wedding? Donate any leftover craft items to schools or retirement homes to help spread the love.
Plus, check out 15 Simple Ways to Use Your Wedding to Pay it Forward.
Summer weddings may be cheerful and bright, but there really isn’t anything more magical than a winter wedding. Dancing snowflakes, frosted mountain peaks, and festive evergreens all dream up an enchanted winter wonderland. Place a bride and groom in the picture, and the romance of the scenery is instantly dramatized. A chilly winter photo session may not sound like a cozy cup of hot chocolate, but the resulting white-washed fairytale photos are completely worth it.
By: Hillary Hoffower
Fall leaves may be colorful, but there’s something striking about a bare tree blanketed in snow. Coupled with a vast lake and delicate snowfall, this shot is all winter romance.
Photo Credit: Enzo K Photography
Surrounded by fresh evergreens and wrapped in peacoats, this couple is full of yuletide cheer.
Photo Credit: Isa Images
This scenic rocky landscape may be missing the evergreens, but it’s ruggedly beautiful.
Photo Credit: Maciej Suwalowski
A running river with snow-covered rocks sets an adventurous backdrop for this carefree couple donned in a rich evergreen and burgundy as tribute to the season.
Photo Credit: Sweetlife Photography
A romantic walk on the bridge in an enchanted forest looks like it’s a scene straight from a fairy tale.
Photo Credit: Brinton Studios
Wrapped up in the blinding white swirl of the snow, these two are oblivious to Mother Nature and only have eyes for each other.
Photo Credit: Rebecca Hollis Photography
A damp fog and frosty ground sets a beautifully mystic tone to this barren wintry shot.
Photo Credit: Chloe Ramirez Photo
A ski lift offers a bird’s eye view of a stunning scenery, complete with mountain and lake.
Photo Credit: Photography by Monique
A mandala of seasonal greenery and red roses brings a bit of bohemian festive cheer to this snowy scene.
Photo Credit: Ainsley Rose Photography
This ice castle is channeling some serious Elsa vibes. Icicles and a gold sequin dress make for a unique wedding photo.
Photo Credit: Kelsey Regan Photography
This snowy walk in the woods is made all the more adorable with matching his-and-hers rainboots.
Photo Credit: We Are The Clarkes
A delicate bare branch frames the newlyweds and the mountain behind them, making for a creative angle in a postcard-worthy shot.
Photo Credit: Two Mann Studios
This bride couldn’t look happier as her groom whisks her away, trekking through the snow.
Photo Credit: Nancy Ebert
Snow banks, slick roads, and sprinkled roofs all add to the elegantly rustic charm of the venue. An archway leading to the snowy landscape beyond serves as the perfect background for a bride and groom portrait.
Photo Credit: Kelsey Regan Photography
This bride and groom know how to have some wintertime fun. Ice skating adds an adventurous and whimsical touch to not only a photo, but the wedding itself.
Photo Credit: Justine Milton
This couple looks cozy in love as the snow rages outside in a shot that captures both the warmth and the cold.
Photo Credit: Ingar Sørensen
A snowy forest backdrop, white dress, and gray tux make for a breathtaking monochromatic shot.
Photo Credit: Kay Kroshus
Lines of evergreens, jutting mountains, and steep slopes — we can’t blame this couple for gazing at this winter wonderland.
Photo Credit: Modern Vintage Weddings
There’s nothing like a light snowfall to add a bit of romance and create a classic winter wedding photo.
Photo Credit: Travis J Photography
What’s a winter wedding photo without a pair of fluffy, adorable huskies? Their regal posture, a fresh covering of snow, and the bride’s layered ballgown and faux fur coat makes for an elegant vibe.
Photo Credit: Konstantin Semenikhin Photography
Raw stumps and bare, whispy branches create a rustic and bohemian setting.
Photo Credit: Stephanie Sunderland Photography
Crisp, clear skies and snow-capped mountains paint a picture-perfect backdrop as this bride and groom prepare to embrace.
Photo Credit: Benjamin Le Du
The night sky and a street lamp combine to shine a spotlight of dramatic snowfall on this couple, making for a magical shot.
Photo Credit: XO Chels Photography
We can practically feel the cold air from these gorgeous glaciers — that’s one brave bride for going strapless!
Photo Credit: Photos by Miss Ann / Event Planner: Your Adventure Wedding
A few fall leaves and untouched evergreens still play peek-a-boo through a carpet of snow, perfectly capturing the autumn to winter transition.
Photo Credit: Jennifer Fujikawa Photography
A peek through the snowy trees catches this bride and groom’s love.
Photo Credit: Laura Murray Photography
A heavy fog and elegant tree lends this waterfront an ethereal quality.
Photo Credit: Jesper Anhede
Lush greenery and a teal river give this snowy landscape a burst of vibrant color.
Photo Credit: Darren Roberts Photography
A black and white still of a city getting sprinkled in snow as bride and groom share a kiss is nothing but glamorous.
Photo Credit: JPP Studios
A sled acts as a fun prop with playtime vibes, bringing out this couple’s inner child.
Photo Credit: Michael Will Photography
This image may be all fir trees, but that’s the beauty of it — it’s as if these two are the only ones who exist in the world.
Photo Credit: Jeff Cooke/Cooked Photography
A hazy winter sunset casts an ethereal glow on the snowy scene behind these newlyweds.
Photo Credit: Justine Milton
A rustic barn backdrop and icy frosty ground lend this winter photo some rustic charm. We love how the red roses in the bride’s bouquet add a pop of holiday color.
Photo Credit: Rebecca Hollis Photography
With a snow-lined church — complete with seasonal décor — and a husky leading the way, it looks like these three are ready for a winter escapade.
Photo Credit: Rebekah J. Murray Photography
A cozy winter sleigh ride is just what Old Man Winter ordered. The only thing missing is a reindeer.
Photo Credit: BrittRene Photography
Complete with a picturesque backdrop and a wind effect, this striking shot could pass as a movie still.
Photo Credit: Darren Roberts Photography
As if this couple needs more joy, frosted evergreens bring a bit of wintry merriment, their set-up perfectly framing this happy couple.
Photo Credit: Hops Koch Photography
Snow flurries whirl around for a charming effect.
Photo Credit: Gemini Photography Ontario
This dazzling photo is winter’s take on footprints in the sand, leading to a couple basking in the glow of the streetlight.
Photo Credit: Hoffer Photography
From the wooden skis and poles to the bright puffer jackets and beanie hats, we’re in love with this ski bunny couple.
Photo Credit: Ladies and Lord
Jack Frost really worked some magic in this photo. Falling snowflakes and a forest of evergreens dusted in snow is a true winter dream.
Photo Credit: Darren Roberts Photography
Climbing up a snow-capped mountaintop with a bright winter sun, heavenly light, and wisps of clouds is worth it for such a jaw-dropping and otherworldly picture.
Photo Credit: Jim Pollard Goes Click
Have you ever seen a kiss as romantic as this one? All we can say is, "Let it snow."
Photo Credit: Pepper Nix
A cozy lodge in the background adds an element of warmth to this magical and chilly scene. This couple really is walking in a winter wonderland.
Photo Credit: Matt + Lena Photography
This playful skiing shot show’s off the couple’s adventurous side. We love how the groom so sweetly carries the bride’s bouquet for her.
Photo Credit: Jeff Cooke/Cooked Photography
An umbrella not only shields this cute couple from the snow, but it acts as the perfect frame for their love.
Photo Credit: Katy Lunsford
Evergreens and fir trees, charming pond, wooden bridge, vast mountains — we love everything about this wintry park. It’s a nature lover’s dream.
Photo Credit: Pepper Nix
Wintry gray skies and heavy snow may seem gloomy, but in this shot, they’re dramatic and magnificent, especially when coupled with the bride’s voluminous fit and flare dress.
Photo Credit: Nordica Photography
Snowball fight, anyone? These two know how to have fun, creating winter’s version of confetti in this adorable shot.
Photo Credit: Lauren Fair Photography
The beauty in this breathtaking shot is simply unfounded. There may be no snow, but we’re loving the blue hues, from the distant hills to the ice, which perfectly captures both the stunning scenery and bride and groom in its reflection.
Photo Credit: Tony Gambino
Tip of the Day: If you want to include a cultural tradition in your wedding that may not be familiar to all of your guests, keep them informed of what's happening. Include a blurb in the wedding program or a fun infographic that explains what a chuppah or a handfast is; you may want to insert a translation as well if your ceremony is conducted in another language. At your reception, have a framed note on each table or ask your DJ/band to make a special announcement.
Plus, check out Fun Cultural Traditions to Include in Your Wedding.
Photo Credit: Bryan Miller Photography
Tip of the Day: Allow enough time for calligraphy pieces and paper goods. According to Taryn Sutherland from Twinkle and Toast, it takes about two to three weeks to complete the calligraphy for about 100 invitations. "Often brides contact me once they are ready to send out that week, instead of planning for enough time to get them done. It breaks my heart to say no to a potential client just because there is simply not enough time to complete a project," she says.
Plus, check out 5 Things You Need to Know Before Mailing Your Invitations.