This weekend, our fashion editor will be reporting live from the bridal runway shows in Chicago! Follow us on Instagram or Twitter for up-to-the-minute trend updates and tons of exclusive photos. 

Catch up now on our hottest features this week:

Our real bride blogger Lisa is brainstorming how to light up her wedding reception. Check out her awe-inspiring ideas here!

From your ceremony processional to the very last dance, find tons of song recommendations for your wedding.

Not a fan of traditional engagement photos? Then you're going to love these themed shoots filled with imagination.

Q. I think receiving lines are outdated and take up too much time. It is necessary that we have one? I’m worried that our schedule will be delayed by having to greet each of our 175 guests after the ceremony. Any suggestions? 

A. Although a receiving line is not necessary, taking time on your wedding day to greet all of your guests is. If you choose to forgo a line altogether, then be sure to take some time during the reception to visit each table and thank your guests for helping you to celebrate your marriage. They’ll want to congratulate you, and they will greatly appreciate your consideration. 

Photo Credit: Rebekah J. Murray Photography

If you do decide to have a receiving line, there are several things you can do to keep things moving. Consider having a smaller receiving line after the ceremony: The traditional line, which includes parents and attendants, can be shortened to just the two of you and your parents. If you keep your conversations pleasant but brief, the line should move quickly.

If you’re like me, you may be tempted to put this lovely green vine on a wall. But trust me, the bendy silicone form functions best as it’s meant to be used. The so-called roasting laurel elevates poultry and roasts to grease-reduced, healthier states of being.Plus, it can steam fish and corral veggies into submission. It makes a sturdy trivet, too. Bonus: It’s really fun to use (Prepara Roasting Laurel, $24.99, prepara.com). 

—Mary Clarke

With Chicago Bridal Market opening this weekend, where designers present all their new bridal designs, I thought I would look back at the most outrageous and fashion-forward looks of last season. What do you think of Vera Wang's collection of red bridal gowns? Oscar de La Renta's magnificent tulle cape and Carolina Herrera's bridal pant suit? Would you wear these looks on your wedding day? What trend do you hope to see this upcoming season at market?

For up-to-the-minute updates from the runway shows this weekend, be sure to follow us on Instagram or Twitter!

—Naima DiFranco

I love looking through real wedding photos of couples that incorporated handmade touches into their big day. Although it’s difficult for me to complete a lot of these DIY projects while I’m still in graduate school, I’d like to make as much as I can to add that special touch.

One trend I’ve been obsessed with lately is paper flowers. They’re usually pretty easy to make, and you can do them months in advance—without worrying about wilting! Plus, they’re budget-friendly and will last forever. This step-by-step paper flowers tutorial shows you how easy it is to spruce up your space. I also found these photos to serve as inspiration.

1. Multi-colored bouquet.  I'm not having a ceremony since I'm throwing a second wedding reception, so a bouquet hasn’t been a top priority for me. However, I would still like to do a traditional bouquet toss during the celebration. I love how this ornate one ties in beautiful autumnal colors, and even incorporates buttons.