ADVICE
Ask The Knot Squad Q AND A
THE CREW
WE TAPPED OUR EXPERTS FOR ANSWERS TO YOUR PRESSING QUESTIONS.
CARLEY RONEY Cofounder, The Knot
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
FA S H I O N
I've tried on so many different dresses and I'm feeling really overwhelmed— what should my next step be? Mark Ingram: Relax! Sometimes women put too much pressure on themselves to find “the one.” You already found your perfect person, so finding the dress should be a joyful part of the planning process. Start by recalling the styles you were first drawn to—did you love every cap sleeve dress you tried on? Next time you shop, plan to go with just one or two people whose opinion you really trust, as too many can confuse you. A lot of brides actually find it easiest to make their final dress decision while shopping alone. Beyond that, consider your venue and what will work with the location, style and theme you've planned. Most importantly, focus on what makes you feel good.
T R AV E L
20%
OF COUPLES INCORPORATE TRADITIONAL ETHNIC ELEMENTS INTO THEIR WEDDING
What's a US spot for my bachelorette party that isn't been there, done that? Harmony Walton: While the tried-andtrue boozy bachelorette weekend is always a hit, for a unique trip, seek out a locale that can pamper your group and offer fun activities a bit different from the typical beach day. For instance, Park City, Utah, and Beaver Creek, Colorado, offer summer and winter activities that mix spa treatments and shopping with a bit of adventure. Skiing and snowshoeing will get your heart racing (and make a decadent hot chocolate taste even better), while rafting and horseback riding are good reasons to enjoy a massage.
COUPLE: GIDEON PHOTOGRAPHY; EXPERTS FROM TOP: TODD FRANCE, ALLAN ZEPEDA PHOTOGRAPHY, KAYLA MADONNA, WEDDING DOCUMENTARY PHOTO + CINEMA, CHRISTIAN OTH STUDIO, CAROLINA PALMGREN PHOTOGRAPHY, CARLA TEN EYCK PHOTOGRAPHY
PLANNING
My fiancé and I come from two different cultural backgrounds and are planning a fusion wedding. What's the best way to honor traditions from both sides? Shawna Gohel: There are so many ways to combine cultural traditions, so have fun and think outside the box—whether that means choosing fashions from both cultures or choreographing a dance to music from each background. Start by looking at your families' heritages to see if there's any overlap between the two. If so, this can be a sweet shared ritual to showcase on your day. Or choose one of your favorite customs from each side. Practice both or combine the two with a modern twist for a unique spin on the expected. If you'd rather keep it simple, include a cultural element in traditional “I dos,” like adding Indian kundan jewelry to a white gown. Don't be afraid to break the rules—do what feels right for you both.
F O R M O R E A DV I C E , D OW N LOA D The Knot All-In-One Wedding Planner app
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