August 25th

Photo Credit: Katherine Ashdown on Bridal Musings via Lover.ly

Tip of the Day: Ask your wedding planner and additional wedding vendors for DJ or band recommendations. Katherine Stimson, entertainment specialist with Suman Entertainment Group in Miami says that some vendors offer package deals among "friends" in their vendor circle, saving you 10 to 20 percent.

Plus, here's How to Decide Whether You Should DIY Your Wedding Music. Visit sharonnaylor.net for more great wedding tips and advice.

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25 Creative Ideas for Your Wedding Bar

Let's face it — once your reception gets up and running, your watering hole (a.k.a. your bar) is the number one spot your guests will gravitate toward, so you better make sure it not only looks good but is serving refreshments that are up to par. From self-serve stations and stunning set-ups to signature drinks and personalized touches, these fun bar ideas will leave your guests thirsty for more.

By: Hillary Hoffower

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  • Glam

    Glam

    A chic bar with a little glitz and gold is just what your glam Art Deco wedding needs. Guests won’t be able to miss this beauty. 

    Photo Credit: Kristin LaVoie

  • Kegger

    Kegger

    Who says kegs are only for college kids? Place them in a canoe with beers of your choice to add some personality to a casual reception.

    Photo Credit: Jennifer Bakos Photography

  • Vintage Tub

    Vintage Tub

    A vintage clawfoot tub makes a antique chic alternative to a bar stand for an outdoor wedding so your guests can grab and go!

    Photo Credit: Matthew Morgan Photography

  • Semi Circle

    Semi Circle

    The circular shape of this richly distressed bar creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere, ideal for guests to gather 'round in celebration.

    Photo Credit: Jessica Lynne Studios

  • Dispensers

    Dispensers

    Put your fruity drinks in a glass jar dispenser for a punch of color so your guests can quench their thirst quickly and easily.

    Photo Credit: Adrien Craven Photography

  • Cupboard

    Cupboard

    A wooden cabinet makes for a charming self-serve bar, complete with canisters of drinks, wine glasses, and playful dish towels. Your guests will feel right at home.

    Photo Credit: Richard Bell Photography

  • Cocktail Napkins

    Cocktail Napkins

    Personalize your cocktail napkins with a cute quip or your wedding date for a little flair and personalization.

    Photo Credit: Shoreshotz Photography

  • Champagne Bar

    Champagne Bar

    Elegant and glamorous with gold accents, this champagne bar also exudes a touch of whimsy with a scripted sign and glasses full of bubble wands for the double entendre.

    Photo Credit: Justine Ungaro

  • Canoe Shelves

    Canoe Shelves

    A barnwood bar complete with canoes transformed into liquor shelves gives a solid nod to lake life.

    Photo Credit: Laura Ivanova Photography

  • Beer Tap

    Beer Tap

    Nothing says "chill"  like free-flowing beer from a rustic tap — your guests will love these easy pints.

    Photo Credit: The Melideos

  • Bar Menu

    Bar Menu

    The food isn’t the only thing that calls for a menu. Display a listing of the night’s drink choices front and center so guests can pick their poison by the time they reach the bar. The line will move that much faster! 

    Photo Credit: Emily Wren Photography

  • Sangria Station

    Sangria Station

    Show off the fruits of sangria in sleek and elegant dispensers for a refreshing and inviting look perfect for a backyard affair. 

    Photo Credit: Alixann Loosle

  • Punch Bowl

    Punch Bowl

    A punch bowl is an easy and friendly way for guests to self-serve the night’s libations. This antique bowl, serving up a vibrant maple bourbon cocktail set atop a mahogany table, instantly classes up this punch.

    Photo Credit: Ruth Eileen Photography

  • Mobile Bar

    Mobile Bar

    This vintage camper pays homage to the era of free love, providing a whimsical yet refined option for a bohemian-themed wedding. 

    Photo Credit: Addison Jones Photography

  • Bar Cart

    Bar Cart

    We love this mod bar cart reminiscent of Mad Men, perfect for a glam 1960s-inspired intimate affair.

    Photo Credit: Tuan B & Co.

  • Minimalist Design

    Minimalist Design

    A marble top bar set on geometric legs under a steel canopy has a minimalist feel made complete by an overhang of cascading greenery.

    Photo Credit: Anna Kim Photography

  • Lemons and Limes

    Lemons and Limes

    There’s no such thing as going overboard on the garnishes! Use them for function and aesthetics to bring a pop of color to your bar.

    Photo Credit: Jen Rodriguez

  • Ladder

    Ladder

    Place planks across two adjacent ladders and adorn them with bottles and glasses for a rustic, yet sophisticated, look.

    Photo Credit: Studio 1208

  • Jugs

    Jugs

    A glass jug adds a bit of magic that no other dispenser or bottle can, especially when added to a fall-themed wedding. Let the color of your drink complement the surrounding tablescape and mood.

    Photo Credit: Sarah & Ben Photography

  • Ice Cubes

    Ice Cubes

    DIY your ice cubes — freeze them with mint leaves (or any garnish of your choice) inside for an extra dose of fun! It’s an easy and budget-friendly way to add a cute detail to your bar experience.

    Photo Credit: 17Apart

  • His and Her Cocktails

    His and Her Cocktails

    Create signature drinks inspired by both of your fave beverages. His-and-her cocktails are a fun way to personalize your wedding.

    Photo Credit: Dana Cubbage Weddings

  • Witty Signs

    Witty Signs

    Infuse a bit of humor into your bar area with funny sayings or cheeky one-liners.

    Photo Credit: Rachel Solomon

  • Wine Bar

    Wine Bar

    Lush vines, a variety of wines, and sparkling goblets set atop a wooden table makes an ideal drink station for an alfresco Tuscan-inspired reception.

    Photo Credit: Julie Paisley Photography

  • Wagon

    Wagon

    With an old-fashioned wagon transformed into a bar cart and an antique desk organizer playing home to some ale, this bar set-up is rich in southern sweetness.

    Photo Credit: Michelle March

  • The Dog Tail

    The Dog Tail

    Want Fido in the mix? Throw in a signature cocktail for him, too.

    Photo Credit: Erin Kate Photography

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25 Creative Ideas for Your Wedding Bar

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50 Photos to Take With Your Groomsmen

Boys, get your best GQ impression ready! The bride and her bridesmaids may take the lion's share of photos on the big day, but that doesn't mean you and your buddies don't deserve your own moment in the spotlight, too. From traditional must-haves to creative wild cards, check out 50 snapshot ideas dedicated to your favorite guys.

By: Stefania Sainato

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50 Photos to Take With Your Groomsmen

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August 19th

Photo by: Shannon Leahy

Tip of the Day: Add a meaningful touch to your ceremony by infusing your love story into the service or incorporating a ritual that has special significance to you. One that we love: handfasting. In this ancient Celtic tradition, the hands of the bride and groom are literally tied together to symbolize the joining of husband and wife. It's the origin of the phrase "tying the knot."

Visit sharonnaylor.net for more great wedding tips and advice.

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