Backyard Weddings - Hot Trend for 2010

One of the hot wedding trends for 2010 is the backyard wedding. While getting married at home is not necessarily cheaper, it does allow for a more personal, intimate ceremony and reception. Intimate weddings allow the bride to enjoy her day and connect with all of the people that are important to both she and her husband to be. There is no worse feeling than having a huge wedding and you can't remember who was there, let alone if you got to spend time with dear Aunt Martha, who traveled all the way from London for your big day.

Some tips to remember when planning an intimate wedding ceremony at home:

1. Hire a professional wedding planner or coordinator to assist with those last minute "murphy issues" that will arise. At home weddings are not as easy to pull off as one may think. There are space issues to be considered, and furniture and equipment rentals to be coordinated. Your coordinator can help you stay on budget, because issues can come up that will stress your budget to the max, like canopy rentals, or parking for guests. And, of course, your wedding coordinator will be able to assist you with selecting the best vendors for your budget and wedding style.
2. Be realistic about space issues and what is possible at your home. No matter how big you think your backyard is, 300 people in a neighborhood backyard is unrealistic. Be aware of noise and parking restrictions within your area.
   
3. There are no limitations to your style and dress decor. You can use as much imagination as you like. You can be as casual or as formal as you want. Give clues to the style and tone of your wedding through your invitations and decor. You want your guests to be comfortable in their style of dress as well.
4. Keep in mind your wedding date and normal weather trends for your area. An outdoor wedding in July - September in the Houston or New Orleans areas is not impossible but you want to be prepared for the humidity, and heat as well as the many tropical storms or hurricanes that can pop up this time of the year. Create a plan to keep yourself as well as your guests comfortable.
   

Click here for more info about wedding trends for 2010.

What We Can Learn from Our Parents' Marriages - Pt 1

As those of you who follow us here at Coco Trendy Events know, I truly believe in long lasting marriages and relationships. I have been exposed to quite a few couples who have celebrated or will soon celebrate 25 or 50 years of marriage.
A lot can be learned from the behavior of others, both good and bad. When approaching upcoming nuptials, think about some of the tips relayed in this article. It's never too early to begin your future marital relationship showing genuine care for your partner.

What we can learn from our parents' marriages
Nine couples open up to Redbook magazine about their hopes, challenges

By Jennifer Matlack

Another Relationship Standing the Test of Time

Happy 50th Anniversary to Phil and Lori Gates!

Were celebrating again at Coco Trendy Events. You may remember we did a post a few weeks ago where we were looking for those wonderful couples that have stood the test of time. Join us as we applaud another wonderful, loving couple.

A big congratulations goes out to Phil and Lori Gates, who recently celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary. They were honored with a celebration by family and friends for a week long event in Michigan. This was a real family celebration as they were surrounded by their three children, grand-children and other relatives. All of the festivities took place at the family owned cabins, where there was lots of campfires on the beach, boating and other outdoor activities. Looks like fun was had by all.

Great job Jim, Sara and Betsy (pictured above). I'm sure your parents are very proud of all the work you guys did to make this time very special for them.

Here's to you Phil and Lori, and wishing you many more blessed anniversaries together. I know your children have learned many wonderful lessons from you and your example of dedication and commitment to each other.