Safari Honeymoon Giveaway from the Wedding Channel

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Honeymoon to Africa

   So I spent the week posting ideas about a safari-themed wedding - now what about the honeymoon?  And I'm not talking a safari-themed honeymoon (although I am sure you can interpret that many different ways all on your own.) I am talking an actual safari honeymoon.  Now safaris tend to be on the pricey side. But this will definitely be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.  All inclusive package tend to be the way to go. Prices can begin around $3600 per person.  Be aware of the 'wet' and 'dry' seasons and what you will experience with each.

  Below are a few websites to help get you started:

2 Africa

Martha Stewart Weddings

Masai Travel Inc
Micato
Sabi Sabi

The Wedding Company

  And keep in mind, there are many things that go in to planning a trip like this. For example, you may need to renew your passport, receive vaccinations and more.  It's always a good idea to consult a travel agent.

Thinking of planning a destination wedding to South Africa? Check out the Safari Company's website for some great information, to get a list of service providers & event planners.

Inspiration : African Safari Pt 2

Zebra Image / / Vinyl Wall Art ($59) from Surface Inspired / African Wax Block Fan ($45) by Oleie / Giraffe Bamboo Windchime ($30) at Pier One / Treasure Flower / Wooden Elephant Favor  ($14) at Favor Ideas /  Outdoor Image / Bedroom Image / Paper Olive Invitations / Sunset Image / Ying Yang Hearts ($28) at Wordly Weddings.

Safari Wedding Dress Inspirations

V-Neck ($128) at BridalWeddingGowns.ca / One -Shoulder ($168) at BridalWeddingGowns.ca / Vintage Poppy Dress ($250) at J Crew / Lacey Insets Dress ($148) at Free People /  Easy Corset Slip ($68) at Free People / Custom Bias Dress ($1400) from Get Counscious / BCBG Pleated Bubble Hem ($358) at Nordstrom /  Paisley Swirls Silk ($33) at Ruche.

Inspiration : Safari Reception

For this week's Safari Inspiration, I found a few outdoor ideas to help with planning this theme:

Images courtesy of Bride.net

Click for more ideas on Planning a Safari Themed Wedding.

Safari Wedding on Etsy

Smokey Quartz and Gold-Fill ($26) by PrittyBird / Elephant Cupcake Topper ($12) by Two Sugar Babies / Linen Safari Headband ($25) by JustLiv / Mini Clutch ($7) by Mad Blue Designs / Golden Zebra Necklace ($22) by Blonde Chick / Yellow Dress ($65) by Keerasama / Bratik Bone Hair Sticks ($16) by Afrique LaChic / Brown Wild Flowers Clutch ($45) by Girl By Aileen 

Planning a Safari Themed Wedding

   I've been thinking about themed weddings and what a trend they seem to be. It is a great way to keep your wedding coordinated and give your guests something to look forward to. And there are so many different ways to go with your wedding theme - tea party, love bird, vintage, or tropical destination. And why not safari?!   I know, I know- most of you are thinking crazy leopard printed table clothes, big feathered hats, and zebra patterned bridesmaids.  I can only imagine how this theme can easily go awry. But there are so many ways to carry out this idea by just keeping it simple.

(Photo above is from the San Diego Wild Animal Park)

Location
  First and foremost is choosing the right venue - indoors or outdoors. Consider having it at a zoo or african museum or art gallery.  Many locations like those do host private parties but often require you purchase wedding insurance and for you to hire an experienced caterer.

Decorations
 When selecting your decorations - remember - keep it simple. Choose from shades of brown, tan and white as your base color. You can add accents of red, orange and teal. (think flowers & candles in these colors).  Exotic flowers such as calla lilies and other bright colored hues work best. Select table & chair materials made of wood, burlap linen and nudcloth. To enhance the mood, add a few unique wooden sculptures.

What to Wear
  If you would like to stick with a white or ivory gown, choose a gown that is loose fitting or simple. Select something made of light weight fabrics - linen and silk. Then add safari influenced accessories - colorful beads, ivory, bracelets from West Africa.  Consider tan suits for the groom & groomsmen. If you want to add some color to your wedding party - consider choosing a print for your bridesmaids dresses. And no -I'm not thinking leopard or cheetah. More along the idea of clean floral patterns or solid brighter colored reds or oranges.

Food
  Working with a designer to create a unique cake will only help to enhance your safari theme. But stick with decorations that will go with your wedding apparel and venue decor.  Hor d'oeuvres should have a traditional african flavor - dried fruits chutneys and crackers and iltong (dried meats) .  Included in the meal, consider geelrys (yellow rice with raisins), steamed corn bread and bitter greens salad. Desserts, along with your cake, can include soetkoekies (walnut cookies) koeksisters and brandy soaked fruits. (Click for or some different recipes ideas here.)


Dance
   Traditional African music isn't necessary for the entire night, but add some light African jazz during dinner will help set the mood.  If you can find it in your budget, a great surprise for your guests, is to hire some dancers to preform a few traditional african dances. (Check with dance schools / universities to help you get a good rate.)

Happy Planning!

More inspiration boards & information:

Safari Wedding Themed Dresses

Inspiration : Safari Reception

Safari Wedding on Etsy

Safari Honeymoons
Safari Honeymoon Giveaway by the Wedding Channel

Inspiration : Safari Bride

I saw this beautiful wedding gown photo shoot at Brides.com and just had to share it!

Love Bird Themed Wedding Inspiration

Love Birds!

DIY Wedding Flower Garland / Bird Seating Cards  Love Bird Cake Topper / Peony Bouquet / Bird Salad Plate / Birds' Nest Cupcakes / Badgley Mischka Heels / Perched Necklace / Daisy Birdhouse / DIY Bird Mobile

Bird Table Settings / Edible Birds Nests /  Signature Ecru Save-the-Date / Bird Nest Place Holder / DIY Wall Hanging Bottles / Cream Gown / DIY Seating Cards / DIY Paper Bird Cages

Inspiration : Dr Seuss by Kitchen Dough Dough

In searching through the never ending web to prepare my next post, I came across this all too fantastic and creative cupcake idea on the Kitchen Dough Dough 's blog - Dr Seuss' Thing one & Thing Two!

Something Blue

Here are some fantastic handmade items to help you find your Something Blue .... 

Mr and Mrs Egg Nest ($13) by Dear Jes / Musee Clips ($20) by Sweet Grass Mill / Custom Order Tie Collection ($137) by Tux and Tulle / Monday Morning Up-cycled Brooch Necklace ($28) by Bee Vintage Resdux /  Amazonite Stacker Ring ($22) by Get Noticed / Bonnie Blue Dress ($49) by Lilliput Chipmunk / Blue Pint-Sized Ball Mason jar ($10) by Seasonables / Tiffany Blue Bow Clutch ($75) by Davie and Chiyo / Custom Garter Tropical Caribe ($45) by Peterene Design / DIY Kit Aqua Ribbon Brooch ($10) by Bustle / Blue Box Elder Ring ($150) by Minter and Richter Designs / Hanna Vintage Bridesmaid Dress ($795) by Bellina Bridal /  Shoe Adornments ($42) by Feathers and Frills / Spotted Enamel Earrings by Destiny's Creations.

Inspiration Board : Martha Stewart Style

If you are a fan of Martha Stewart's ability to coordinate - everything! - then check out this inspiration board from items/articles found on marthastewartweddings.com .

Inspiration : Gowns Just Made for Dancing

Found these lovely dresses on Martha Stewart wedding. They are made for dancing!

Feathers & Sparkles

Ballet Inspired Tulle Gown

Wedding Books

I spent some time in the bookstore the other evening and came across a few wedding books for you to check out.

Simply Stunning Weddings / Wedding Chic by Colin Cowie

The Knot Magazine / Weddings by Tara Guerard

Simply Stunning Wedding Etiquette / In Style Weddings

Inspiration: Soft Pastels Behind the Dress

One of my favorite shops on etsy is LoBoheme.   There are just so many lovely finds in this shop. But I thought I would share this sweet custom item. LoBoheme will design your custom garter to a color & material of your choice. 

Check out this lovely custom find on their shop. 
And to check out their 2010 collection - click here!

Shrugs, Shawls, Wraps, & Jackets

A beautiful collection of shrugs, wraps, jackets & shawls for the wedding day in rich creamy whites, ivory, lace, knit & more.

Ivory Romantic Soft Shrug ($75) by Reflections Byds / Sasso Minnelli Shrug ($120) at PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com / Lacey Bridal Shrug ($225) by Rohm / Ivory Pashmina ($70) at ThePashminaStore.com

Dotty Bridal Shrug ($65) at Rohm / Asymmetrical Capelet at Berniolles Designs / Linen Femmy Ruffle Jacket ($118) at Anthropologie /  Wild North Star Shawl ($75) at Kocurek Shop / Absolute Angel Ooak ($210) by Tiana CHE

1940's Cream Rabbit Shrug ($80) / Military Ruffle Jacket ($148) at Free People / Queen Anne Collar Wrap/Shrug ($80) /Emporio Armani Bolero ($125) at  PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com /  Ecru Floral Shrug ($69) at Mucar's Shop 

Inspiration: Fantasy Wrap

  I saw this awesome ruffled shawl and felt I had to share. ... thinking it will be this week's inspiration.

Ruffled Shawl was found at Vart's Shop on etsy.com

Wedding Veils & Hair Accessories

I love accessories! And really great way to add a little something personalized to your wedding attire is with your accessories. There is an endless number of different pieces you can choose -  everything from a cathedral veil (for a more traditional and formal look), to a birdcage veil (for a more vintage look), to headbands and hair clips to tiaras.  I searched around and pulled a few together for an inspiration board.

Cathedral Veil ($165) at Encore Bridal / Finch & Linnet Bird Cage ($105) by Ariaby Allison / Adorned Arc Headband ($32) & Glitzy Aster Bobby Pin ($15) at Anthropologie /  White Scalloped Embroidered Veil ($68) & 1 Tier Elbow 7/8 Ribbon ($50) at Love the Bride / Blusher Birdcage ($37) by YJ Design / Bridal Ivory Birdcage with Wine Flowers ($79.99) by KMD Creations .

Modern Grace Kelly ($113) by Wedding Aisle / Veil with Wide Lace ($110) at Recycled Bride / Jasmine Feather Headband ($18) at Free People / Scalloped Veil ($200) at Recycled Bride / Luscious 36" wide lace ($44) by Simple Beauty Veils / Rhinestone Headband ($164) at Distinctive Veils / Untamed Fascinator ($89) by Untamed Petals.

Veil with Beads ($85) at PreOwned Wedding Dresses / Brianna Feather Headband ($18) by Live in Style / Victoria Nude Headband ($22) at Luciabella  / Silver Rhinestone Headband ($24.50) at Ryeleigh Rose / Pink & Ivory Netting Headband ($50) at Be Something New / Princess Tiara ($48) by Bridal 360 Degrees / Octavia Hairpin ($30) at Tigerlilly / Hair Poof ($65) at Tiger Lilly

To check out some more hair accessories:
Best Wedding Hair Accessories
Etsy.com
PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com
RecycledBride.com
Tiger Lily Jewelry
VeilShop.com
Wedding-Veil.com
WeddingVeil.com

What Questions to ask your Dressmaker

Let's face it, if you are going to invest this much money in a dress, it's a good idea to have the fit you really want. Hiring a seamstress will allow you to enjoy your wedding day without having to give any thought to the dress on your big day. You don't want to be tugging on your dress all day long or worried you will trip over a dress thats too long. So to ensure the right fit, have the dress tailored to your frame. And to help with that, here are a few questions you may need to know to help you out.


When will the dress be ready?

Most dresses will be finished in an average of four to eight months. If your seamsterss is unable to get your dress completed before your wedding day, consider going to another tailor. Appointments for your alterations may need to be made far in advance if their are specific times and dates you need. The last fitting is generally scheduled two weeks before your wedding day. If you are in a rush for your dress, don't be surprised if there is an additional 15-25% rush order fee.

How many fittings are needed?

Most dresses require only three fittings. The exception is for dresses made from scratch which may require several more. During the first fitting, your seamstress will determine what step will need to be done to the dress. For example, is it too long, too short, does the bodice need to be tightened, buttons moved etc. It's a good idea to have your shoes purchased by then & bring them along to the fitting. (You may also want to consider bringing your lingerie to this fitting as well.) The second fitting will allow you to determine if the goals from the last have been met. Additional changes can be made at this fitting. It's often a good idea to bring a friend along for the third fitting. This is when your dress should look like you want it to on your wedding day. So it is a good idea to have someone shown how the dress should bustle etc.

Do the fittings cost extra?

Many stores will offer three fittings in the price when you use their tailor. Designer gowns, however, usually offer an unlimited number of fittings. But make note, not all dress shops offer this. It's alway a good idea to ask up front about this service.

Can I make changes to the dress design?

This will depend on the designer and the dress shop. There are usually limitations to those changes. For example, you may be able to order the dress in a different color or with a different neckline or length. If the answer is a no , you can consider going to a seamstress for your customizations.

What happens if I gain or loose weight after the final fitting?

As long as the changes aren't too drastic, your seamstress should be able to make some last-minute adjustments. If you think there is a good chance you will be gaining or loosing a lot of weight in this timeframe, then it may be a good idea to give your seamstress a heads up. This was she can save extra fabric if necessary. Be sure to check on the additional costs to this.

How do I care for the dress?

Most dress makers will provide instructions on what to do with your dress to ensure it remains in perfect condition until your wedding day. They may also offer advise on where to have the dress cleaned and how to preserve it after your wedding day. (Many dry cleaners offer this service, but make sure you go with one that is well known for this service.)

Check out cleaners such as Margaret's in the San Diego area for more information on this process.

The Right Wedding Dress for You

  With so many beautiful dresses out there to choose form, how do you know where to start? I know it;s important that you find a dress that fits your style but it's even more important that you have a dress that you feel comfortable in.  Some brides know when they try a dress on that it's 'the one'.  But how do you even know which dresses to try on?  Pouring through websites and magazines is a great way to see what is out there. But keep in mind the dress in the magazine you love, may not be the right style for your body type. 
 I did a little research to find out what the experts suggest works best & what to avoid. 


Curvy/Full Figure
    So if you are they type of gal to have curves in all the right places - if you want to show them off with a mermaid/trumpet silhouetted gown.  Many dress fitting experts recommend the A-line style dress with a drop waist for those who want a more simplified.  Designers often pair this shape with a sweet heart neckline. Just be careful not to have a neckline that dives to far down. You want your guests to be looking at your face too. 

Pear-Shaped
  An A-line cut is also a flattering shape for those of you with pear-shape. The waistline of the dress should be at your natural waistline, to help accentuate your narrow midsection and smooth out the hip line. Avoid clingy fabrics and mermaid skirts and bows along your hip line. 

Apple-Shaped
 If you want to hide your tummy, search for styles that have beading or tight ruching around the waistline. You will also want to choose a style with a more conservative neckline like a scoop or v-neck.  Wide straps on your dress will help to balance out your figure and also allow you to wear a bra without issues. Avoid off the shoulder necklines and too high necklines. And flaunt 'em if you got 'em! Don't be afraid to show off those fantastic legs with a shorter hemline either. (just stay away from a short trumpet skirt. You want to avoid making your best attribute look wider at the knee.)

Petite
  Be careful of your hemline. Too long or too short can cause your legs to look shorter then you are. For longer length gowns consider a trumpet skirt that hugs your frame. And for the layered look be sure to stick to light fabrics like lace and tulle. V-shaped necklines help to elongate your torso and give the appearance of height. Check out the sheath, trumpet and a modified A-line gown. Watch out for dresses with a lot of detailing at the hemline. This can cause you to look weighed down.  Be sure to avoid heavy looking accessories, big bows and too much jewelry.  When selecting your flowers, consider a smaller bouquet, as to not cover up your petite frame. 

Tall & Slender
  Think simple. If you want to accentuate your lean form, choose a flowing silhouette. Choosing one made of silk will allow your dress to be less formal and add some sex appeal. But if you want to play down your height, choose a dress style with added volume instead. By selecting a defined high-waisted skirt, you will give the illusion of having more curves. For a long sleeved dress, make sure the sleeves fit all the way to your wrist. When if comes to your accessories avoid the obvious - high heels, and super up-do hair style not cause attention to your height.

Busty
   As a bride you want people to notice your pretty face. Busty girls should look for scoop neck gowns to help display your cleavage but not show off too much. For a strapless gown, consider one with a slight dip  (sweetheart) and not a plunging neckline. You want to feel comfortable out on the dance floor, and not need to worry about constantly pulling up your dress or worse - falling out. You also want to avoid choosing a straight line for your strapless dress & looking like you have a uniboob (yes I said it!)  So avoid ruching, satin and silk along your bustline. 

Small Chested
   Extra fabric at the top helps, so check out dresses with a ruched bodice and halters with some extra padding. Having a good bra can help add a nice push up when it comes to strapless or backless dresses. If you can't find the right bra, consider the self-adhesive silicone cups.

Plus-Sized / Curvy All Over
  Empire dresses were made for you. With a waistline that flows just under the bust line to a nice soft A-line to the floor. Avoid waistlines that start directly underneath the chest. Instead choose a dress with a band if fabric under the bust line and a skirt that starts under that. Avoid any type of pleats and a too loose fabric. The dress should have some structure and provide a slimming shape while appearing light. Accessories should be understated.  

For more information on finding the right fit here are a few helpful links:
Your Wedding Dress: Find the Right Fit
Choose the Perfect Wedding Dress For You Body Type
Best Wedding Dress Shape for You
Choosing a Figure Flattering Wedding Gown

Inspiration: Wedding Dress

I just love this Paloma Blanca wedding dress! The little lace details are what really make this dress.  And even better - it's from the Recycled Bride. Originally $2000, this silk trumpet dress was worn once and the seller is now asking $1500. 

Now That You are a Mrs - Make it Official

There are so any little details that go in to planning for your wedding day.  But don't forget about one small detail after the Big Day. - you are now a Mrs. !   Once the marriage certificate is official, it's always a good idea to have several copies of this document. You are going to need at least one copy to help you change your name.  And I found a great website to help you with this process - MissNowMrs.com .  All you have to do is create an account by answering some general questions, fill out some forms and then file your change of name! 

(Note: If you don't want to stand on line at the county office for a copy of your marriage certificate, you can obtain one from this site for a small fee)

DIY Ideas Center Piece Website

I was recently given a hot tip on a new site with some really nice Do-It-Yourself centerpiece ideas. The site is Object Spendor.  And not only do they supply the list of everything you need, you can purchase the list right there on the site. This makes it so easy to determine how much you will spend & help you stick to your budget.

And they offer helpful tips on how to reuse these same items for another project. Which is a way cool, earth-friendly approach that many brides are looking for today.

Publish Post

Thanks! Lisa from Delicious Desserts for passing this along!

And for our other DIY projects idea posts visit:

DIY on Design Sponge

Martha Stewart Center Piece on A Budget

DIY Center Pieces on Rachael Ray

DIY Seating Place Cards

Yellow is all the Rage on Etsy

This season, yellow is all the rage! And I know that I usually post my etsy finds on Wednesdays but I could resist sharing some of these lovely finds a few days early...

Lovebirds Save-the-Dates ($15)  by Kim Custom Gifts / Handmade Satin Flower Appliques ($6.99) by Juja Crafts / Chiffon Flower Necklace ($14) by Lovely and Amazing / Snap Clutch ($35) by ModDot / Blue & Yellow Boutonniere ($15) by PishPosh / Honey Tones Flower arrangement ($50) by Flores Del Sol / Haute Pastel Yellow ($89) by Nostalgia.

Intertwined Headpiece ($75) by House of Elsa  / Scalloped Lace Ring 22ct gold ($250) by bcm999 / Bridesmaid Ranunculus Feather ($39) by Y&J Design  / Mango Scarflette ($35) by Scarflette / Canary Dress Silk Chiffon ($425) by Holly Stalder.  

Shades of Yellow in the Center

Yellows of all shades and hues seem to be the color of the season. I just love this yellow center piece on Martha Stewart - yellow begonias, multiple shades of ranunculus and white garden roses.