ADVICE Q AND A
Ask The Knot Squad THE CREW
WE TAPPED OUR EXPERTS FOR ANSWERS TO YOUR PRESSING QUESTIONS. T R AV E L
BRITTNY DRYE Founder and editor in chief, Love Inc. Mag
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MARY CHATMAN CEO and editor in chief, Black Bride
SHAWNA GOHEL Founder and editor in chief, Maharani Weddings
MARK INGRAM Owner and creative director, Mark Ingram Atelier
BRITTANY LO CEO and founder, Beautini
HARMONY WALTON Founder, Jet Fete and The Bridal Bar
DIY your favors, like an infused olive oil, for a sweet touch
FA S H I O N
I love the idea of navy bridesmaid dresses, but I’m worried they’ll clash next to black tuxes on the groomsmen. Is this color combo a no-no? Carley Roney: This rule has gone the way of “no white after Labor Day”— so don’t bother giving it a second thought. In fact, these colors can work for almost any type of wedding. Pair inky-blue dresses with classic black suits and rich eggplant florals for an elegant, moody affair. If your signature style is a bit more vibrant, throw in a pop of color, like flamingo pink or kelly green. For a modern celebration, brighten the palette with scarlet accents. Still not convinced? Consider choosing ties or vests in something other than black—that still coordinates with your wedding palette, of course—to lighten the overall look and shift the focus away from the tuxedos. And for your attendants, opt for a shade of navy closer to black than to blue. But trust us, you don’t have to worry about this versatile color combo.
RECEPTION
32%
OF COUPLES INCLUDED DARK BLUE IN THEIR COLOR PALETTE
My family expects me to serve traditional Indian cuisine at my wedding, but how can I make sure I offer a meal every guest will love? Shawna Gohel: There are a ton of fusion menu options that allow you to creatively incorporate Indian flavors with a variety of other cuisines—think spicy chicken tikka tacos or paneer lettuce wraps. Another thought: Since Indian weddings often consist of multiple events, compromise with your family by having one of the other events feature a predominately non-Indian lineup. That way, you and your partner can incorporate some other favorite dishes into the celebration. Food is one of the best ways to show guests who you are as a couple.
FAVORS: LANG THOMAS PHOTO; EXPERTS FROM TOP: TODD FRANCE, ALLAN ZEPEDA PHOTOGRAPHY, KAYLA MADONNA, WEDDING DOCUMENTARY PHOTO + CINEMA, CHRISTIAN OTH STUDIO, CAROLINA PALMGREN PHOTOGRAPHY, CARLA TEN EYCK PHOTOGRAPHY
CARLEY RONEY Cofounder, The Knot
What should we put in the welcome bags for our island destination wedding? Harmony Walton: For tropical vows, definitely include some sun essentials. Travel-size sunscreen and after-sun care, like aloe and moisturizing lotion, are both useful items for guests. Then throw in some beach-themed gifts to give your guests a peek into the fun to come. Sunglasses (even better if they’re emblazoned with your hashtag), flip-flops, towels and anything local you can source, like island rum cake or a voucher for a water activity such as paddleboarding, all do the trick.
F I N D M O R E A DV I C E O N The Knot Wedding Planner app
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6/22/18 10:52 AM