by Diana Warner | Feb 19, 2021 | Uncategorized
As I wrote this blog I was trying to think of a title. I like to keep things funny and lighthearted and I hope I did the job because it brought you here to read it. See, I laugh every time someone is confused by the term “STD” while planning their wedding. I’m sure you can guess why I’ve gotten many funny looks. When some people hear me talk about STDs they stop and think, is she seriously talking about what I think she’s talking about? No, I am not. See in the wedding world “STD” stands for “Save-the-Date”. You know those pre-invitations you send out 6-8 months BEFORE your wedding date.
That’s just one example of terms that people are confused by when planning their wedding. You have entered into a world that is unknown to you and filled with terms and concepts that are foreign. What I wanted to provide for you is a list of terms you may hear me mention or even your other wedding professionals. Not everything is included here, as I went with the more common words and acronyms that people question. But if there is something you would like explained, please comment and I will add it to the list.
I will say, that because I talk about weddings a lot it is hard for me to not use some of these terms. But if we are ever talking and I confuse you, please ask me to explain. And if you understand a different term better, let me know and I will do my best to adjust my vocab to help. Wedding planning is confusing enough sometimes, I don’t want to confuse you more.
Rising Ashes Designs
Wedding Planning Terms
Attrition/Contracted – This is the rate that refers to the percentage of rooms that must be filled in order to avoid paying a penalty. (Courtesy blocks there are no fees for unbooked rooms)
Belly Band – The paper wrap that goes around your invitations.
Gobo – a metal disc place in front of a light to create a design/monogram on the floor or wall.
Swag – Floral Arch Arrangement
Bouts – Boutonniere
Shot List – List of desired photos or videos you would like to be captured.
Drop Linens – Place linens on the table
High Top/Bistro Table/Tall Boy – Cocktail table
Charger Plates – The fancy plates that keep the setting and go under the meal plates.
Place Setting – This is the complete set of dishes, glassware, and utensils provided for a single guest.
Bistro Lighting – String lights with large bulbs
Escort Cards – These are the cards that tell guests where their table is and tells the caterer the meal they ordered.
Place Card – These are the cards that direct guests not only to their table but to the exact seat they will sit in. Very formal dinner.
Room Flip – This is when a room is transformed from one setting to another. Most commonly done for a ceremony flipped to the reception while guests go to a separate room for cocktail hour.
Strike/Breakdown – Cleanup of the event
Wedding Planning Acronyms
STD – Save-the-Date
NAB – Non-alcoholic Beverage
BEO – A Banquet Event Order is a contract that lists all of the important details of an event. BEOs are used at most hotels and event facilities to help ensure everything is outlined and agreed on
RFP – Request for a Proposal
MUA – Makeup Artist
HAMU – Hair & Makeup
HA – Honor Attendant
MOB/FOB/MOG/FOG – Mother of Bride/Father of Bride/Mother of Groom/Father of Groom
MOH – Maid/Matron/Man of Honor
BM/BW – Best Man/Best Woman
by Diana Warner | Jan 5, 2021 | Uncategorized
First, let me start by saying that planning a wedding in 2020 is not really more difficult in the concept, but with all of the unknowns that are faced by planning something for the future, the stress level is increased. Do you book a vendor now or wait to see if you have to postpone everything? How many guests will we be allowed to invite and who of those will feel comfortable attending? Do I plan for my original guest list or just wait it out? So many decisions to make and with not wanting to lose money or a family member, it just sucked.
To my couples who opted to move forward with their wedding on a different scale and path, my heart goes out to you for the difficult decisions you had to make.
To my couples that opted to postpone to 2021 or to sometime in the future, my heart goes out to you for being able to make that choice, and for knowing when your original date came and went your heart was hurting.
To my couples who opted to cancel and go a different route, I understood and support your decision. I was still thrilled to see your mini celebrations on your social media. I wish you all the best.
A Change of Plans
Angela & Scott
When COVID-19 began, Angela & Scott knew it was going to impact their June wedding. Although they were disappointed with having to change things, they took everything in stride and in the end we’re just happy to get married. We moved from their venue to a tented wedding on a private residence and basically started wedding planning all over again. With only 3 months to do it too. It was simple and intimate and beautiful.
Photographer: CLE Weddings – Beauty: Rachelle Carpenter – Officiant: Merrill Wheeler – Flowers: Berry’s Blooms – Catering: One Eleven Bistro – Desserts: Dee Bakes – Tent & Rentals: Medina Tent Company
Jessica & Jim
Everything was going as planned and then we got word that their reception hall was closing to the public and their reception could not take place. We had many discussions on how to move forward and in the end, they decided to embrace the situation with grace. Jessica & Jim opted to keep their wedding date and got married with their closest friends and family surrounding them. Next year we will bring together everyone who could and could not be there and celebrate at their reception like no one’s business.
Photographer: Trisha McCarthy Photography – Ceremony Venue: North Chagrin Reservation, Chestnut Shelter – Beauty: Samantha Fellows – Bridesmaid Fashion: Azazie – Bridal Gown: Formality Resale – Groom Attire: Men’s Warehouse – Cookies: Dee Bakes – Bouquets & Bouts: Blush Custom Weddings – Officiant: Nicholas Maitland – Transportation: Mr. A-1 Limo – Videography: Video Memories
Serena & Stephen
I was facing the end of my wedding season with only 2 couples, and then I got that magical phone call from Serena’s mother Ellie. Serena & Stephen live in New Jersey where weddings were closed completely, and so they wanted to come to Ohio and have an intimate celebration at home with family and friends. In 5 weeks, we planned an entire wedding. It put the wind back into my sails and I was so happy to end the season with not only a five-star team beside me but with a caring and loving couple whose friends and family were the most welcoming. Also……fireworks.
Photographer: One Red Door Photography – Ceremony Venue: Uptown Park Gazebo in Medina – Beauty: Salon Rootz & Jason Kelly Faceart – Officiant: Two NEO Wedding Officiants – Florals: Amour Floral & Decor – Linens: Elegance 4 My Event – DJ: C-Town Entertainment – Catering: Taste of Excellence – Cake: Rito’s Bakery – Videography/Streaming: An Affordable DJ – Rentals: Sully’s Rentals – Transportation: TL Worldwide Transportation – Fireworks: Zambelli’s Fireworks
Wedding Planning in 2021
This is to highlight and share the love for my amazing and beautiful couples that have postponed to 2021. No matter what happened this year, 2021 is your year to celebrate you.
Kristen & Matt
Nate & Jared