Music plays a crucial role in wedding celebrations, as it helps to set the mood and bring your special vision for your day to life. However, knowing which songs to pick can be a tough choice, as there are so many different moments to consider when planning the soundtrack for your big day. In this post I'm going to share four top tips for choosing your wedding day music, from the ceremony prelude through to the evening crowd pleasers.

For your Ceremony

Your ceremony alone will need prelude, processional, and recessional tracks, to help set the scene before, during and after the moment you exchange your vows. You’ll want to choose light, uplifting music to play as a prelude to your ceremony, when your guests arrive at your venue and begin to take their seats. Your processional music will play as the bridal party and bride walk down the aisle, so you’ll want to pick sentimental songs for this portion of the day. For your recessional song, that’ll play as you and your guests leave the ceremony, should be joyful and celebratory - this will be the soundtrack to you leaving the building as a married couple for the first time.

For Special Dances

There are lots of opportunities to play the music that means something to you throughout your day. For the first dance, many couples opt for a slow, romantic ballad, but you shouldn’t feel restricted to any one genre or style if you don’t feel it fits your love story as a couple. Choose a shared favourite song to make this moment feel extra special.

There are also parent dances to consider, like the father-daughter dance and mother-son dance. Of course, these dances are a chance to play a song treasured by you and your parent, such as one that reminds you of a happy memory you share together. You may have cultural or religious dances you want to honor too – this is a wonderful opportunity to incorporate traditional music as you celebrate your heritage.

For your Reception Party

As you reach the reception portion of your celebration, everybody will be looking forward to having some fun on the dance floor. This is your chance to play a little bit of everything, from classic favourites to modern hits, in a variety of genres, to help get the party going. This is also an ideal opportunity to incorporate some musical entertainment into your wedding celebration - consider a brass band or singing waiters to add a little excitement and encourage your guests to let their hair down.

Choose the Kind of Music you Love

Remember that there are no hard-and-fast rules when it comes to your wedding day, and the kind of music that’s right for your celebration will depend on your likes and dislikes as a couple. Be sure to stay true to your tastes and vision for this very special day. And most importantly of all... have fun!

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Why the USA Great for Travelling with Young Children

There’s something truly magical about a family holiday. Granted, they’re seemingly never stress-free: planning, packing and picky little travellers can test your patience at times. However, the special memories you’ll create exploring faraway places with your nearest and dearest will be cherished for a lifetime.

Deciding where to go is often half the battle. Catering to different tastes and personalities makes it difficult to find somewhere with something for everyone. Or at least it would be, if the USA didn’t exist. The States have long been an aspirational holiday destination for young families, and is home to some of the world’s prime tourist attractions. In this post, I'm going to discuss three important reasons why the USA is a wonderful place to visit with young children.

An Educational Experience

Family holidays are an excellent opportunity to broaden your children’s horizons and develop their world view in these formative years. Across the USA, museums, monuments and statues tell the story of this country’s fascinating history, and a visit to these sites is sure to both inspire and educate young minds. Best of all, there are lots of exhibitions that have been designed with children in mind, so they’ll never feel like they’re in the classroom when stepping back in time.

It can be compelling for children to see the sites they’ve learned about back home up close, and you never know whether a trip could ignite a new passion or interest that they want to pursue. On top of this, America is an incredibly diverse country, making it a great place to teach little ones about the importance of respecting and celebrating different cultures and ways of life.

Family-Friendly Locations

Especially in the main tourism destinations, you’ll find that most tourist attractions, restaurants and accommodations are geared towards welcoming visitors of all ages. Having easy access to the necessary facilities makes a holiday here more convenient for parents and can mitigate lots of the stressors associated with being away from home.

Some locations that are best geared towards family travel include:

• Orlando: Dubbed the theme park capital of the world, Orlando is perfect for adventurous families. From Walt Disney World to Universal Studios, fun and thrills are top of the agenda on any holiday to this part of the world.

• California: California is teeming with special spots that are tailor-made for a family holiday – think Los Angeles, Anaheim, San Francisco and Lake Tahoe. For the icing on the cake, some of America’s most breathtaking national parks can be found in the Golden State, including Joshua Tree, Redwood and Yosemite.

• Hawaii: White-sandy beaches, luscious valleys and an abundance of beautiful wildlife are just some of things that await you in Hawaii. Head on a snorkelling tour of the bay to savour the local marine life, before venturing into the jungle on a Jeep tour.

It’s a Year-Round Destination

As any parent knows, timings for family holidays are often dictated by school schedules. This restricts you to only a few options throughout the year, with most trips naturally planned for the summertime. Fortunately, there are plenty of reasons to visit America at any time of the year, meaning you can be more flexible around when you choose to visit. 

For example, if you’re dreaming of a Christmas vacation, take a festive foray to New York City, where Yuletide responsibilities are taken incredibly seriously, and bright lights illuminate the cityscape. Or, the Easter holidays are the perfect time to enjoy the most popular tourist attractions at a more relaxed pace, after the peak summer season has come and gone. There is a perfect spot for your family all 52 weeks of the year – the only difficulty is deciding where to go first.

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Top Car Hire Tips: 4 Techniques for Big Savings

One of the first things that crosses the minds of tourists planning a trip in the United Kingdom is whether car hire is something they should consider. A significant number of them dismiss this service because of its cost. However, once they learn these top car hire tips, they will surely start incorporating it into all their trips. As they will not only have a more pleasant and less tiring journey, but also save some money.

Check Multiple Locations

You should keep in mind that by simply tweaking the booking options, you are likely to end up with a better daily car hire rate. Typically, airport pick-up is costlier because travellers obtain a vehicle to explore with the moment they land at their destination, meaning there is no point in their trip to waste on looking for the best means of transport. However, the inconvenience of having to find a way to get to the city centre, the train station, or the harbour to pick up their car hire can reward them with lower hire rates.

Select Times & Dates Wisely

In the same logic as the location option, playing with the day and time of pick-up and drop-off can change the final cost of the car hire service. Most articles about top car hire tips will tell you that weekdays within business hours have the best hiring prices. Thus, if you can adjust your travel times and itinerary to this fact, you will definitely enjoy big savings on hiring. Another thing to keep in mind is to check for bank holidays in the UK or any festivals in the city of your choosing, as they might be the reason for higher-than-usual rates.

Compare Deals

Any top car hire tips article would be incomplete if it didn’t mention the need to compare available deals in the area of your interest. The easiest way to view all the options is to visit comparison sites. One such site is holidaycars.com, where you get a list of airport car hire options at the best prices. They are presented in an easy-to-compare format, with all the essential information to spot the deal that sounds best for your circumstances in no time. Thus, you save both money and time with this tool.

Inspect the Car

If you take only one tip from this article, let it be this one: you should carefully inspect the hire car, take photos and videos of any blemishes, and report them to the car hire firm. This is the only way to avoid getting charged for damages, as you can prove that you haven’t caused them.

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6 Tips for Designing Top Tier Wedding Invitations

Your wedding invitations, a unique reflection of your wedding theme and style, are a significant part of your special day. They offer the first glimpse into the distinctive ambience you're creating. Designing a standout wedding invitation will not only generate excitement but also ensure that your guests remember to RSVP, thanks to the lasting impression your invite will make.

Creating a sophisticated save-the-date and invitation style that perfectly aligns with your vision of the big day can be a creative adventure. You have the freedom to imagine and design, knowing that your wedding invites will leave a lasting imprint on your guests.

Use High-Quality Paper and Printing

In the first instance, you need to make sure you're using a high-quality paper and printing service. Your wedding invitations need to be printed on something more substantial than plain A4 white paper, so choosing handmade paper or thicker paper will work better for you.

Then you need to make sure the printing service you choose is high quality, and you have proof of the results prior to ordering. Using a high-quality paper and printing service can enhance the visual appeal of your invitations, making them more memorable for your guests. Upgrades like metal foiling can really help you go the extra mile to make a statement.

Print the Envelope

Adding your chosen design or colours to the envelope and using the same font as your invite can really help your envelope stand out, especially if it needs to be posted. To do this, you can either print the entire envelope with your design or use a stamp to add a design element. Get creative and weave your bouquet's flowers into the envelope. Add a ribbon design to tie it together or another design to embellish the envelope, not just its contents.

Boxed Invitations

Go one step further than a standard paper invite and send out a box invitation. To create a boxed invitation, start by choosing a box that fits your invitation and any 'little extras' you want to include. Note that you don’t have to only include the invite itself, but you can choose a style that moves away from the standard invite size and shape. You can include little extras in the box, such as a magnet to save the date, a small candle, or anything else you feel is representative of your wedding and personality.

Add a Rubber Seal

If the rubber seal reminds you of Harry Potter, firstly, you're not alone. Second, think about the fact that the seal alone triggers that memory for you. Can you use this to your advantage to help you create that memory for your guests? A rubber seal on the envelope instantly elevates the invite and makes it seem more personal and important than simply sticking it on the envelope. To use a rubber seal, you can either purchase pre-made seals or create your own using a stamp and wax. Paired with an off-white or coloured envelope, a rubber seal could be exactly what you're looking for.

Get Creative with Your Invite

Why not think outside the box and have some fun with your wedding invites? It doesn't need to be on paper; it can be anything and everything you wish. You can send out video e-vites to save on printing costs and make it more personal and fun. You can choose to be the main focus or make a mini trailer of the venue to create an invite that is guaranteed to be something people remember. You can bake the date onto cookies, add a note on a box of sweets, or in a pop-up card that ejects confetti when opened. All of these ideas can be tailored to the type of couple you are and the type of wedding you will be having, ensuring that your wedding starts with a bang and is remembered as the most memorable one.

Pocket Invitations

It's not an invite that fits into a pocket, but more an invite with pockets in. These invites are ideal for multiple events or cards they need for different dates. For example, if you are creating an invite for your bridesmaids or groomsmen, you can add in date cards for any bridal parties or stag events, you can include pre-wedding dinners or rehearsals for those in the immediate wedding party or add in separate invites for both the ceremony and the evening party so people can attend one or both. Other options include adding to your dress code, rules for the day, i.e., no children, or even directions, menus, or anything else people need to know. This way, you've thought of everything all at once!

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How to Dress to Fit your Mood and Personality

Your choice of clothing does much more than meet the eye; not only makes you look good, but also serves as a subtle yet powerful form of nonverbal communication, offering insights into your mood and personality. Whether it's the vibrant colours you wear on a joyful day or the structured outfit that makes you feel confident during a crucial meeting, every piece of clothing tells a story.

In this article I will explore the deeper connection between what you wear and how you feel. So hopefully you will discover how to choose outfits that not only express your current emotions but also positively influence your well-being and confidence.

Casual Style Reflecting an Easygoing Personality

Casual attire is all about comfort, letting you move freely and feel relaxed. Whether it's jeans and a T-shirt or a crop top paired with high-waisted jeans, the key is to feel confident and comfortable in what you wear. This laid-back approach is inviting and shows off your down-to-earth personality, making it easier for people to relate to you and connect positively. Opt for bold colours or unique textures to add a playful touch and showcase your confidence and love for fashion experimentation.

Your choice of colours can also reveal your mood. Bright and vibrant colours often indicate a cheerful and upbeat mood, while neutral tones like navy or grey might suggest a more subdued vibe. How groomed you are in your casual attire can also reflect your mood. Taking the time to groom yourself shows confidence and a positive attitude, while a more relaxed grooming style gives off a carefree vibe.

Creative Fashion Trends to Embrace Individuality

Adding fashion trends allows you to explore new styles, colours, and combinations. It showcases your creativity and openness to change. Setting fashion trends involves innovative styling techniques. It can be layering unconventional pieces, accessorising boldly, or restyling clothing items in creative ways.

One way to add non-conventional fashion and express individuality is to wear a kaftan style dress, which often brings a bohemian and free-spirited vibe. This helps you express your individuality through artistic clothing choices.

You can also add a knitted crop top, which will add uniqueness to your style by showcasing the designers or artisans craftsmanship and creativity. They showcase handcrafted details like crochet patterns, stitching, or unique textures. Also, crop top shirts for women bring a classic pattern into the modern day with a stylish crop, perfect for adding a bit of edge to a casual outfit.

Formal Attire for Professional Confidence

Your attire is not just about covering your body; it’s a form of self-expression that communicates your mood and personality to the world. Opting for well-tailored formal clothing can give a confident and professional appearance. Whether you're heading to an important meeting, a job interview, or a formal event, your choice of formal attire speaks volumes about your dedication, reliability, and ambition.

How you carry yourself in formal attire reveals your mood as well. To make an assertive impact, you should have a confident posture, direct eye contact, and open body language. This portrays you as someone who is capable, organised, and ready to tackle any challenge that comes your way.

You can add a tie that complements your suit and shirt. Go for silk ties and tie them neatly to complete your formal look. For additional crispiness, you can coordinate your belt with your shoe colour. Prefer keeping your accessories minimal as they can be distractors for your look.

Emotional Expression Through Colour

Expressing emotions through colour might not be something you consciously consider when choosing your outfit for the day. Still, you often find yourself gravitating toward certain colours based on your mood. You've probably noticed how a bright, vibrant dress can uplift your spirits one day, while a darker-coloured outfit might match a more subdued mood another day.

When you opt for bold reds, like crimson or scarlet, you're likely to feel a surge of confidence and convey a strong sense of empowerment. This makes red a powerful choice for occasions where you want to assert yourself or exude professionalism. On the other hand, soft pastel colours such as mint green, baby blue, or blush pink tend to evoke feelings of calmness, creating a peaceful and harmonious atmosphere.

It's perfectly natural to have personal associations with specific colours based on your past experiences or memories. For example, wearing your favourite colour might bring about feelings of comfort or nostalgia, contributing to a positive emotional state.

While your clothes don't define you, they can be a powerful tool for self-expression and confidence. The way you dress can influence your mood and energy and communicate a message to those around you. So, embrace fashion as a way to showcase your unique personality, but remember, true confidence comes from within.

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5 Tips for Finding your Ideal Event Space

Are you in charge of planning an event - whether that is a corporate gathering, anniversary party, or other type of event? If so, then you have come to the right place. In this post I will explore the top tips and insights when it comes to finding the perfect event space for your needs. After all, the event venue plays a critical role in guest experience and can impact the success of your event. The right event space can help create memorable experiences for your attendees.

So, how can you find the ideal event venue?

Define Event Goals and Purpose

First of all, you should consider the purpose and goal of your event. In particular, consider the following:

● Format - is it a formal or casual event? Will there be speeches, demonstrations, Q&As, etc.?
● Number of attendees - the number of people who confirm or register doesn’t necessarily indicate the amount who will attend (keep in mind that in-person event attendance typically hovers around 60% to 65%)
● Ambience - what type of ambience or mood are you trying to create?
● Required facilities - do you need a stage? Dance floor?

Defining the above will allow you to narrow down your choices, saving you time and effort.

Organising the Budget

Establishing a budget is key to finding an event space that does not break the bank. Specify the amount that you are willing to spend on the venue and make sure to stick to it to avoid overspending. Don’t forget to think about additional costs that will eat into your budget, such as:

● Audiovisual equipment
● Catering
● Decorations

Location

The perfect event space should ideally be close to transport links and accommodation, with adequate parking facilities. This is particularly important for events where attendees are expected to travel from abroad or from long distances. Think about who you are inviting and where they may be travelling from - consider a central location for ultimate convenience if possible.

Facilities and Amenities

Your perfect event space will need suitable facilities and amenities to ensure that your event is a success. This can include:

● Parking
● Toilets
● Stage
● Catering
● Tables and chairs

Find a venue that is already well-equipped to save yourself money from having to arrange additional assistance! For example, you will probably want to look into corporate venue hire if you are hosting a business event. Venues that cater to corporate events will often have the necessary facilities that are required, such as appropriate audiovisual technology, presentation equipment, and more.

Find the Best Venue for Your Event

Hopefully the above tips and insights can help you make an informed decision about choosing the right venue for your event. Don’t be afraid to shop around and ask for quotes from different venues! Schedule visits to each venue before picking your final choice for a glimpse into the size, layout, and overall ambience that you could expect from the venue.

Remember - the event space is crucial to your attendees’ overall experience, so it is important that you have the perfect venue. Don’t settle for anything less than excellent.

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7 Unique Outfits to Style When you Have Nothing to Wear

In the ever-evolving world of fashion, finding the perfect outfit can sometimes feel like an elusive task. However, fear not, as in this post I have curated a collection of seven unique and trendsetting outfits tailored for women who seek inspiration when their wardrobe feels uninspiring.

From casual chic to vintage glamour, these outfit ideas are designed to inject new life into your closet and help you make a statement no matter the occasion. Get ready to discover fresh styling options that will leave you feeling confident, empowered, and effortlessly stylish!

Boho Chic

For a relaxed yet stylish look, embrace the boho chic trend with a flowy floral maxi dress paired with a denim jacket. Accessorise with layered necklaces, a floppy hat, and ankle boots for a bohemian flair. Complete the outfit with a statement bag and don't forget to add a touch of glam with your favourite sunglasses. This is a great summer staple that is not only gorgeous, but super easy to put together!

Casual Cool

When the weather warms up, nothing beats the comfort and style of Unionbay shorts for women. These shorts come in various styles and colours, making them versatile for different occasions. You can pair your shorts with a breezy cotton blouse or a graphic tee for a casual cool vibe. Add trainers or sandals, a crossbody bag, and some trendy sunglasses to complete the effortless summer look. Unionbay shorts offer not just comfort but also a touch of chic style, perfect for those laid-back yet fashionable days.

Power Suit with a Twist

Why not switch the traditional black suit and opt for a power suit with a twist? Choose a vibrant-coloured or patterned suit in a tailored silhouette that exudes confidence and sophistication. Pair it with a sleek blouse or a lace camisole for a feminine touch. Complete the ensemble with statement heels, a structured handbag, and minimal jewellery for a powerful yet stylish outfit suitable for work or a formal event.

Athleisure Luxe

Achieve the perfect blend of comfort and style with an athleisure-inspired outfit that seamlessly transitions from the gym to brunch. Start by pairing your favourite leggings or joggers with an oversized hoodie or sweatshirt, creating a relaxed yet trendy look.

Layering with a denim or leather jacket not only adds warmth but also adds a touch of style to the ensemble. Complete the look with chunky trainers, a stylish baseball cap, and a backpack for an effortlessly cool vibe that's ideal for running errands or enjoying a casual coffee outing with friends.

Effortless Monochrome

Elevate your style with an effortless monochrome outfit that exudes chic sophistication. Embrace a single colour palette and play with different shades and textures for a nuanced look. Opt for a tailored blazer paired with matching trousers or a midi skirt in a harmonising hue to create a cohesive silhouette. Layer with a luxurious silk blouse or a cozy knit sweater for a polished finish.

Complete the ensemble with sleek pumps or ankle boots, a structured tote bag for practical elegance, and minimal accessories to maintain a timeless and refined aesthetic that commands attention.

Edgy Street Style

Unleash your inner fashion icon with an edgy street-style ensemble designed to turn heads. Begin by selecting a statement piece such as a sleek leather jacket, a distressed denim jacket, or a striking printed coat to serve as the focal point of your look.

Layer this standout piece over a graphic tee or a sleek tank top and pair it with high-waisted jeans or leather trousers for a rebellious yet sophisticated vibe. Elevate the outfit further with chunky boots and a crossbody bag adorned with chains for added edge. Accessorise with bold elements like hoop earrings or layered chokers to enhance the urban chic appeal of your ensemble.

Vintage Glamour

Indulge in the timeless allure of vintage glamor with a retro-inspired ensemble that celebrates iconic fashion eras. Choose a tea-length or A-line dress adorned with vintage-inspired prints like playful polka dots, delicate florals, or captivating geometric patterns.

Complete the look with classic pumps or charming heels, evoking a sense of nostalgia and elegance. Enhance the vintage charm with accessories such as a lustrous pearl necklace, a structured handbag reminiscent of bygone eras, and chic cat-eye sunglasses. For the finishing touch, opt for a bold red lip, adding a touch of sophistication to your ensemble and ensuring a timeless and glamorous appearance that never fades from style.

Fashion is all about experimenting and expressing your unique style, and these seven outfit ideas cater to different tastes and occasions, offering inspiration for when you feel like you have nothing to wear. From casual chic to vintage glamor, there are endless possibilities to create standout looks that reflect your personality and make a fashion statement. So go ahead, mix and match, and have fun exploring new fashion trends and styling techniques!

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6 Ways to Add Theatrical Flair to your Wedding Day

If you've ever planned a wedding you'll know how many choices and decisions there are to make - especially if you're going down the more traditional route. However, there are so many different wonderful ways to celebrate a wedding day in these modern times, so why don't you spice up the day a bit with something a bit more different? So if you would you like your nuptial festivities to add a bit of theatrical flare keep reading, as this post shares 6 ways to add some theatrical flair into your big day.

Save the Dates with a Twist

Give your wedding an unforgettable flair when sending out Save-the-Date cards by giving a creative spin with them. Why not make this announcement more of a grand reveal, similar to a movie trailer - consider sending out a custom video invitation that teases elements of what's to come, such as a stylised shoot of your venue or dramatic reading of the date, as part of an effective invitation strategy to get guests excited and curious about your main event! A fun promotion idea might include using printed air fresheners bearing your wedding date that will serve as reminders whenever people get into their cars.

A Dramatic Dress Code 

Your dress code can help set the scene of your dramatic wedding with elegance. Inspire guests to channel their inner divas with an all-black attire theme featuring touches of gold or silver; or go bold by inviting guests in unconventional colors like red or electric blue! Don't forget to mention it on invitations so guests know exactly what attire to wear for it. You could even add drama into your own look too by including long veil, an elaborate headpiece or unconventional dress silhouette as part of it - don't be shy about making an impressionable look statement with this part of it all on such an important day!

Make an Extraordinary Entrance

Making an impressive entrance can set the bar high for the rest of your wedding. Arrive via horse-drawn carriage or vintage car for maximum impact. Or make an impressionable statement with an unexpected dramatic arrival, such as helicopter or flash mob arrival - leaving guests talking for years afterwards! Keep it a surprise until the very last moment to create even more suspense. Remember this will be their first impression of you on your big day so ensure it reflects both your personal style and theme of the wedding event!

Set the Stage

Your venue of your wedding plays an integral role in setting the scene for drama. Consider selecting locations with inherent theatrical flair such as historic mansions, castles, or venues with panoramic views. Unusual venues like opera houses, old theaters or circus tents may add even more of a theatrical feel. Decorate these places with dramatic elements like red carpets, grand chandeliers and dramatic up lighting. Consider seating guests theater-style during ceremonies to heighten drama further; this way every moment becomes part of an exciting play that features both you and your beloved as characters onstage throughout its course!

Dramatic Decor

Your wedding's decor can help bring its dramatic theme to life. Dare to be bold, make a statement, and use vibrant hues such as deep reds, purples and gold to evoke feelings of opulence and luxury. Add large, ornate centerpieces to your tables with tall candelabras and dramatic floral arrangements for maximum impact. Don't overlook the details, such as velvet table cloths, crystal glassware and gold cutlery which all contribute to creating the overall effect. Hanging decorations such as chandeliers or fairy lights add extra vertical interest while drawing the eye upwards - and if budget permits use drapes and curtains for an unforgettable theatrical backdrop during your nuptials!

The Main Act

Your ceremony and reception should emulate a captivating play, offering unforgettable scenes that will keep your guests talking even after its conclusion. Here is where your creativity can shine and the details that reflect your story can come together seamlessly. Consider making an entrance on horse-drawn carriage or being serenaded by a choir as you walk down the aisle. At your ceremony, instead of using traditional readings as the focus for entertainment, consider having an engaging dramatic recitation or performance that represents your journey together. At your reception, consider hiring performers such as ballet dancers, theatrical actors or fire performers to surprise and entertain guests - these extra performances will not only impress guests but will make your wedding standout with dramatic and unforgettable moments!

Adding drama and delight to your wedding doesn't require lavish details or extravagant arrangements - instead it should reflect who you are as an individual and love story. So don't settle for an ordinary day when there's so much potential in designing one that embodies everything about who you are as an individual. Happy wedding planning!

This is a collaborative post.