Dream Altar Options

By Adeline Saunders

Whether decide you’re getting married in a church or to have a scenic wedding, the altar may be just about the most important space in the venue. The bride and groom might only be up there for a few minutes, but it is denitely the most meaningful (and most photographed) spot in the entire ceremony.

Some of the most natural and elegant looking altars include greenery installations. Installations are fun because they come in all different shapes and sizes. Try a large, leafy wreath, or if you want to opt for something a little more classic, try an arch covered in your favorite greens and owers. For the boho chic couple, go with a birch teepee! Try weaving owers and greenery into this setup so it can be extra special. These altars make for a beautiful addition to the ceremony and look great in photos.

Chuppa altars are a classic and look great both indoors and outdoors. Whether you decide to use sheets and owers or want to try something different like string lights and vine, there are plenty of unique ways to customize your chuppa. If you want something simpler, try a metal based chuppa. This sleek and modern look is a great asset to pictures under the altar and don’t take too much away from the bride and groom.

For the couples who want to ditch the altar all together, try tying the knot under a beautiful tree covered with lanterns or string lights. The lights add a magical addition to one of nature's oldest wonders. Another great idea is surrounding yourselves with themed aesthetic decale or your favorite plants. This way you can say goodbye to the traditional altar but still get the attention you deserve.

The ceremony is the most important part of the wedding. It’s a time for the bride and groom to profess their love for one and another while being surrounded by their family and friends. Choose an altar that says “I love you” in your own unique way because you two are going to be the only people standing at it.

Mr. & Mrs. Raulie

Photographer: Carmen J. Williams Photography

WANDJELL & MARTY BROWNING

Vendors: Hair: Portia Lea - Beauty Expert Catering: Flavor Fetish Catering Company Makeup: Jillyne Renee Artistry Bartending: On the Rocks Bar Service and Staffing Ceremony & Reception Music: DJ Touch Venue: Bella Moon Decor & Linens: Wonderfully Made Cake: TrishAnn's Delicious Desserts Bridal Gown: Sweet Romance Bridal Dessert Bar: Alchemy Bake Lab Day of Coordination: Timeless Rose Events Florals: Bring Joy Photography: Catchingzzzproductions

Staying Physically Healthy While You Plan

By Adeline Saunders

ife can be busy, especially Lwhen planning a wedding. With all the time and energy that goes into planning, most brides are spent by the end of the day, but regardless of how busy you are, it’s important to keep up with your physical health. Making sure you’re getting the nutrients and exercise you need will not only keep you looking and feeling great, but it will help you lower stress levels and get through your pre-wedding journey with ease.

Working out can be fun and (surprisingly) relaxing! Not every form of exercise is fast-paced and vigorous. If you’re crunched for time and want to relax while you get your body moving try yoga at home. We live in an age where we don’t even need to leave our houses to get a lesson from a certied yoga instructor. Try waking up 30 minutes early t o l a y o u t y o u r m a t a n d participate in an online yoga class. Doing this each morning will leave you feeling refreshed, relaxed, and motivated to get going with your day. Or try going for a walk. Whether it be brisk or a two-hour hike, walking is always a good way to get your blood owing while providing the relaxing elements of nature. Nothing beats being able to relax and get a work out at the same time!

If you’re prone to high stress levels and you’re looking for a way to blow off more steam, try running or hitting the gym. St u d i e s h ave s h ow n t h at strenuous exercise helps you lose weight and boosts your mood. High-Intensity Interval training (HIIT) is proven to help you gain muscle and help you breathe. Yeah, that’s right, HIIT can help improve your oxygen consumption, so you’ll be able to breathe easily during all of the stressful wedding planning. For those of you who don’t know where to start, try hiring a personal trainer or downloading an app that will help you get t. See if your local gym has a personal trainer option or if you’re on a budget, there are many mobile apps that provide various exercise ideas and even help you keep track of your steps and caloric intake. This way you’ll be able to track your success and continue to live a healthy lifestyle.

Regardless of where you are or what’s going on in your life, physical health should always be a priority. When you’re a brideto-be, taking care of your health is especially important, so make sure you make time for you. Eating right, staying hydrated, and getting active are the building blocks of self-care, so nd time each day to relax, move, and breathe. Give yourself what you need to be a happy and healthy bride!

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To learn more about Affinity Weddings, visit affinityweddings.net or email hello@affinityweddings.net.

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@WithThisRing_AW @affinityweddingshouston

Production credits: Photographer: Libra Scale Creative Venue: BienVenue Models: Ayesha Love, Ivanka Garrett, Sara Chau Makeup Artist: Donyale MUA, Mama Bear Beauty, Mercy’s Hair Designs Hair Stylist: Mercy’s Hair Designs, Pink Ladies Texas Bridal Gown: Impression Bridal Decor: Grand Events Party Planners Florals: Fauxtastic Floral Creations, Frankie + Flora