Friday, January 14, 2011

To Cake or Not to Cake

....that is the question we are faced with.

Keeping in mind my blog ' Preparing a Wedding Budget', my fiance and I undertook the task of deciding what was important and what wasn't important for our wedding.

The venue, the dress, the photography and the music were all things that fell into our 'important' category. In our 'not-so-important' category were things like the bombonieres, extravagant centrepieces and the wedding cake.

I know some people think the whole 'cutting of the cake' is an important tradition that can't be left out of a wedding, but we just couldn't justify spending $600 on a cake that most people don't eat, or don't remember eating, anyway.

So...we are currently thinking of doing away with the tradition of a wedding cake and using that money for something that is more important to us.

But of course...many people are very excited by the idea of wedding cakes so I will throw a few suggestions as to what you can do for a wedding cake - or in place of a wedding cake.


The Traditional Wedding Cake


For all you traditionalists out there - the classic tiered wedding cake is still very popular! Comes in many colours and flavours - this particular design is 'Chanel' from The Glory Box.


The Cupcake Tower


Almost overtaking the traditional tiered wedding cake in the popularity stakes is the cupcake wedding cake.

Add your own touch with funky designs and coloured icing. Also saves the catering staff having to cut your wedding cake for you!

This one is courtesy of Martha Stewart Weddings.


The Modern Wedding Cake


A modern twist on an old classic - the modern wedding cake can take many forms. Colourful and artistic, you can now shape your wedding cake to suit your wedding theme, or your personalities.


The Quirky Wedding Cake

The strange little bride and groom on top...the quirky colours and designs...these cakes are the epitome of the unique couple.

This example is from  The Glory Box.


The Chocolate Foundation Alternative



If you're not too keen on the traditional wedding cake...what about a chocolate fountain as a fun alternative? Besides the possibility of a bit of chocolatey mess...this is a great idea for those who like to be a little different.

For suppliers in Perth, see Chocolate Attraction or Chocolate Fountain Hire Perth.


The Lolly Buffet


Themed to suit your wedding style & colours, the lolly buffet is a great idea that allows your guests to choose their own lolly 'goodie-bags'.

This style is from The Candy Buffet Company.


The OTT Wedding Cake


Would you expect anything less from Peter Andre and Katie Price (aka Jordan)? I'm not sure this is a wedding trend that is going to catch on anytime soon...but I'll give them points for originality.

Thursday, January 13, 2011

Natural Wedding Hairstyles

Great news for all the bride's-to-be out there - natural wedding hairstyles are back in fashion!! Today's brides are opting for flowing, feminine hairstyles that are both comfortable and fashionable!

One of my worst worries is having a throbbing headache on my wedding day because my hair is pulled back so tight! I've experienced that feeling in my youth when I participated in numerous calisthenics concerts - so I'd rather leave that feeling OUT of my wedding day.

So here are some options for the more natural look on your wedding day. Both up-do's and hair-out do's:


The "Twigley" Look


Rebecca Twigley often opts for the 'natural' hairstyle, and her wedding day was no exception. Bec shows us you can wear the princess dress with the natural hairstyle and still look ultra-glam!!


The Extra Long Look


This is one of my favourite natural looks. I love the side-part and the soft curls!

And don't worry if your hair is short - this look can still be recreated with hair extensions. Ask your hair stylist about the clip-in (temporary) option for your wedding! No one will know the difference.


The Long Blonde Locks


A similar look to the previous one, but just showing off the look for blondes. Blake Lively of Gossip Girl fame pulls off the 'casual curley' look so well! Oh how I envy her thick hair as well! 


The 'Half-Up / Half-Down' Look


For a slightly more styled look, but still within the boundaries of 'natural hairstyles' is the half-up / half-down curled look. This photo shows how you can add accessories into the mix to define the style.

A perfect natural style that suits a beach wedding or a more formal occasion.


The Intricate Look


Opt for a little more 'glam' in your natural hairstyle with this modern creation. Teams curls with twists and still retains the natural look you desire.

A couple of diamantes throughout the hair would also look gorgeous!


The Natural Up-Do


The perfect combination of natural and glamour! This soft up-do pulls the hair up off the shoulders to accentuate the decolletage, but it still leaves enough hair down around the face to create the softer look.

One of my favs!


The Side Pony Look


A hairstyle which is becoming very popular with brides is the side pony style. This example shows how to create a classy modern look with little effort required.

A great style for women who want an easy and manageable look on their wedding day.


Of course there are plenty more 'natural' hairstyles to choose from for your wedding day. These are just some of my personal favourites!!