ETIQUETTE
Ask Carley
OUR COFOUNDER ANSWERS YOUR QUESTIONS.
What fabrics and styles should we look for if we’re having a beach wedding? For grooms, leave the black ties at home—traditional suits are thick and a bit formal for the beach. Instead, pick a fabric that breathes, like lightweight cotton or khaki, and opt for softer hues like beige, light blue or dove gray. For brides, strapless or halter necklines, cap sleeves and flowy skirts give off a relaxed vibe. Choose airy fabrics such as silk chiffon and organza for easy movement. And stilettos and sand don’t mix, so go with wedges or flats.
Q A
How do I let a vendor candidate know I’ve decided to hire someone else for my wedding? While you’re not obligated to contact potential wedding pros after meeting with them, it’s a courtesy they’ll appreciate. Quickly call or send an email to thank them for their time, and say while you enjoyed meeting them, you’ve decided to move forward with someone else. If they ask, and you’re comfortable answering questions about your decision, be honest and concise—though it may feel awkward to be so straightforward, genuine feedback is always valuable to vendors.
BEAUTY BAG
Q A
I’ve heard I need an emergency kit on hand for my wedding day—what exactly should I include? The contents may vary based on your personal style and preferences, but let’s start with the basics. Pack beauty products and tools to touch up your hair and makeup—lipstick, hair spray, clear nail polish, blotting papers, tweezers, bobby pins and scented lotion or perfume. Then, don’t forget practical lifesavers like stain remover, tissues, Krazy Glue, fashion tape, Band-Aids, breath mints and safety pins for those unexpected snafus. If you want to be extra prepared, tuck a water bottle and a snack in, along with aspirin, dental floss and sunblock. And don’t be afraid to ask your maid of honor or coordinator to keep track of the kit—that’s what they’re there for. Whoever is in charge of it should stash it in a tote bag and find a safe but easy-to-access place for it at the reception.
POSING OPPOSED
Q A
We want all-natural candid shots of our day. Is it okay to skip the posed portraits? Having everyone together in one place is a special occurrence, and this day will happen only once. Even if you think you don’t want any portraits, you’ll likely be glad to have a few classic shots after the wedding (and your parents will be happy too). Wouldn’t you rather pose for a few photos than regret not having them down the road? To minimize the portrait session, pare it down to the must-take photos: you two together, the entire wedding party, you two with each of your immediate families and both immediate families all together. You may even be surprised to find that a posed shot ends up being your favorite snap from the celebration. >>
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RONEY: TODD FRANCE PHOTOGRAPHY; GROOMSMEN: ANDI MANS WEDDINGS
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