by Flor Amor | May 3, 2023 | Planning and coordination
Tips for Engaged Couples to Avoid Scams
Your wedding day is one of the most important events of your life, and you want to make sure that everything runs smoothly. Hiring professional wedding vendors is a crucial part of ensuring that your big day is perfect. However, with so many wedding vendors out there, it can be challenging to find the right ones. Unfortunately, there are scams that couples need to be aware of. In this post, we’ll provide tips on how to find professional wedding vendors while avoiding scams.
Common Types of Scams in the Wedding Industry
There are various types of scams in the wedding industry. some are targeted at wedding vendors, but today we’re focusing on the one that target engaged couples. it’s essential to be aware of them to avoid being a victim. Some of the most common scams include:
- Phantom wedding vendors who take your money and disappear.
- Bait-and-switch scams where the vendor delivers subpar services compared to what was promised.
- Overcharging for services, particularly for couples who don’t have much knowledge of the industry.
- Vendors who don’t deliver services as agreed or who cancel at the last minute.
By knowing the different types of scams, couples can take steps to protect themselves.
Questions to Ask Wedding Professionals Before Hiring Them
Asking the right questions can help couples determine whether a wedding vendor is legitimate or not. Some questions to ask include:
- How long have you been in business?
- Can you provide references from previous clients or other wedding professionals?
- Are you licensed and insured?
- What is your refund or cancellation policy?
- What happens if you don’t show up or don’t provide the agreed-upon services?
Asking these questions can help couples weed out unprofessional vendors.
How to Verify the Credibility of Wedding Vendors
One of the best ways to verify the credibility of wedding vendors is to check their reviews online. Couples can also:
- Check whether the vendor has a website and if they have provided a physical address and phone number.
- Verify that the vendor has proper licenses and permits to operate in their state or country.
- Check if the vendor is a member of a professional association or organization.
- Ask for referrals from friends or family members who have worked with the vendor before.
Having said all that, the easiest way to find professional vegan wedding vendors is to check our handy guide! We’ve invited wedding pros from all over the US (and some internationally) to list their business. There is no cost to them and no cost to you. However, that doesn’t mean anyone can sign up. Our vegan vendor list is curated to include vendors who not only provide vegan items. In many cases the business owner is actually vegan, too. It’s a great way to find vendors who share your compassion and vegan ethics.
By taking these steps, couples can be more confident in their choice of wedding vendors.
In conclusion, engaged couples should take the time to research wedding vendors to avoid being scammed. By knowing the common scams in the industry, asking the right questions, and verifying the credibility of vendors, couples can hire professional wedding vendors who will make their big day unforgettable.
by Flor Amor | Apr 22, 2023 | Planning and coordination
Green and Gorgeous! Weddings are special occasions that require months of planning, and among the many things to consider is the environmental impact of your big day. From the invitations and decorations to the food and transportation, there are so many ways you can incorporate sustainable practices into your wedding. Here are some eco-friendly wedding tips that will make your big day green and gorgeous.
Celebrate Love and Nature: 10 Eco-Friendly Wedding Tips
1. Go digital with your invitations
One of the easiest in today’s digital age! Instead of using paper invitations, consider sending e-invites or creating a wedding website with all the necessary information. This not only saves paper, but it also makes it easier for guests to RSVP and stay updated on any changes.
2. Choose a green venue
Select a venue that is eco-friendly and has sustainable practices in place. This could mean a venue with solar panels, a garden or one that sources local produce for their catering. Some folks even consider historic locations eco-friendly since they don’t contribute to the need for building materials and other associated consumption related to construction.
3. Choose sustainable food options
Consider using a caterer that uses locally sourced, organic, and seasonal produce. You can also choose a vegan or vegetarian menu, which has a lower carbon footprint than meat-based meals. Vegan farm to table catering options are the ultimate eco-friendly green wedding choice!
Say “I Do” to Sustainability
4. Use recycled or biodegradable decorations
Use natural, biodegradable, and recyclable decor items such as flower arrangements, potted plants, reusable table settings made from eco-friendly materials, and metal or bamboo utensils. Your florist can help you with ideas to repurpose the statement designs from the ceremony to the reception.
5. Choose ethically sourced wedding bands
Select rings that are ethically produced, meaning they are made from recycled or conflict-free materials. Lab made diamonds are exactly the same as earth made diamonds. Not only are they a fraction of the cost, thay are guaranteed to be conflict-free with no damage to people of the environment.
6. Donate leftover food
Find a local charity that can accept your leftover food and donate it to those in need. RSVP no shows are far more common today than before COVID. It’s pretty common for the guest count to change in the month leading up to the wedding. Your caterer may end up with too much food if your changes come after their cut off. Ask them for recommendations for charitable donation. Or, you and your partner could ask for them to be boxed up and donate them directly to the less fortunate as your first act of charity together.
7. Opt for eco-friendly transportation
Consider using bicycles, scooters, pedicabs, or electric vehicles to transport the wedding party and guests. Alternatively, encourage guests to carpool or arrange for a shuttle from their lodging to the venue. One vehicle for 30 people is a lot more eco-friendly than 15 separate ones!
8. Choose an eco-friendly wedding dress
Select a dress made from sustainable or recycled materials. You can also choose to wear something you already own or rent a dress. Or, how about a non-traditional gown that you can wear again on your anniversary? You can’t do that with a big ole wedding gown!
9. Choose a sustainable honeymoon destination
Choose a place that is eco-friendly and sustainable, such as a national park or an eco-lodge. Many resorts are advertising the steps they’ve taken to reduce their impact on the environment. These are the ones you’re looking for. They are more likely to be vegan friendly or better yet, fully vegan.
10. Create a zero-waste wedding
Create a zero-waste wedding by avoiding single-use items, such as plastic straws or cups, and choose reusable options instead. You can also compost any waste to minimize the impact on the environment.
Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, so why not make it green and gorgeous? By incorporating these eco-friendly wedding tips, you can reduce your environmental impact and celebrate your love for each other and the planet.
by Flor Amor | Apr 17, 2023 | Planning and coordination
Congratulations on your engagement! Planning a wedding can be an exciting and stressful time, but if you’re a vegan couple, it can add another layer of complexity to your celebration. How do you ensure that your big day aligns with your values and dietary preferences? Fear not, we have a secret to share with you that will make your vegan wedding a joyful and memorable occasion.
Say “I Do” to a Vegan Celebration
Choosing to have a vegan wedding is a wonderful way to showcase your commitment to the environment, animal welfare, and healthy living. From the food and drinks to the décor and attire, there are countless ways to incorporate a vegan theme into your special day. You can opt for plant-based cuisine, including creative vegan dishes that will impress even the most skeptical carnivores. You can also choose eco-friendly and cruelty-free products for your wedding favors, decorations, and clothing.
A vegan wedding can inspire your guests and show them that a compassionate and sustainable lifestyle is not only possible but also enjoyable. It can also be a chance to connect with like-minded individuals and support local vegan businesses. Whether you’re planning a small intimate ceremony or a grand reception, a vegan wedding can be a beautiful and meaningful way to start your new life together.
Our Secret to a Joyful Wedding
So what’s our one key tip for a joyful vegan wedding? It’s simple, really: focus on love and connection. Celebrate and showcase compassion. While the details of your wedding are important, they are not the most crucial aspect of your big day. What matters most is how you feel and how you make others feel. Your wedding is an opportunity to share your love and gratitude with your partner, family, and friends.
Instead of getting caught up in the stress of perfectionism or pleasing everyone, focus on creating a joyful, warm and welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable and included. Make sure your guests are well-fed, hydrated, and entertained. Use your creativity to design a wedding that reflects your personalities and values. And most importantly, take time to enjoy each other’s company and appreciate the magical moments of your special day.
At the end of the day, your wedding is about celebrating the love and commitment that you and your partner share. By choosing a vegan theme and focusing on love and connection, you can have a joyful and memorable celebration that aligns with your values and inspires others. So don’t stress too much about the details, and remember to have fun and cherish every moment!
by Flor Amor | Apr 16, 2023 | Planning and coordination, Vegan Wedding Guide
Are you planning your dream wedding and on the lookout for vendors? Look no further than vegan vendors! Not only do they offer delicious plant-based cuisine, but they also align with your values of compassion and sustainability. There is a common misconception that eating plant-based equals being vegan. The definition of veganism is “a philosophy and way of living which seeks to exclude—as far as is possible and practicable—all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other purpose; and by extension, promotes the development and use of animal-free alternatives for the benefit of animals, humans and the environment. In dietary terms it denotes the practice of dispensing with all products derived wholly or partly from animals.”
As you can see, there’s a lot more to it than what we eat. In this article, we will explore 9 reasons to choose compassionate vendors to help you say “I do” to your dream wedding!
The Compassionate Way to Say “I Do”!
Gone are the days of boring dinners at weddings. Vegan wedding vendors offer a wide range of flavorful and delicious plant-based cuisine and eco-friendly vegan decor. From vegan mac and cheese to unique vegetable dishes, your wedding feast will be a memorable experience for all. But, you may ask, what about silk, leather, and feathers for decor? To that we say, “we don’t need no stinkin’ feathers! We’re vegan”.
9 Reasons to Choose Vegan Vendors
- Sustainability: By choosing vegan vendors, you are opting for a sustainable and eco-friendly wedding. Vegan food production has a lower carbon footprint than animal products, minimizing the environmental impact of your wedding. Many, if not most, vegans also have a deep sense of responsibility in doing no harm to the environment in general. That means using eco-friendly vessels, utensils, and decor.
- Health benefits: Vegan cuisine is naturally packed with essential nutrients and vitamins. It’s a great tasting healthy choice for you and your guests.
- Allergies and Dietary Restrictions: Vegan caterers cater to a wide range of dietary restrictions and allergies, ensuring that every guest is satisfied and has flavorful options.
- Compassion: Vendors who are personally vegan align with your values. They share your compassion towards animals, providing cruelty-free, eco-friendly, and ethical options for your wedding.
- Creativity: Vegan cuisine offers endless creative possibilities, providing unique and flavorful options for your wedding feast. Decor options include reusable vessels and interesting flowers, foliage, branches, and grasses. In truth, there are many more vegan options available than items like feathers and leather that require the death of an animal to produce.
- Quality Ingredients: Vegan vendors prioritize high-quality and fresh ingredients, ensuring that every dish is delicious and made with care.
- Community: Choosing vegan vendors supports the vegan community and small businesses, promoting a more ethical and compassionate world.
- Variety: Vegan caterers offer a wide variety of cuisine, accommodating different tastes and preferences.
- Deliciousness: Last but not least, vegan food is simply delicious! Your guests will be amazed by the flavorful and satisfying options provided by your vegan caterer.
Now you have 9 reasons to say “I do” to vegan vendors. Therefore it’s time to start planning your dream wedding! From delicious cuisine to ethical values, vegan vendors offer the perfect choice for your special day. Cheers to a sustainable, compassionate, and unforgettable wedding!
by Flor Amor | Apr 12, 2023 | Planning and coordination
Love is ageless, and it never gets old. Older couples who have been together for years know this truth better than anyone else. They have been through thick and thin, and their love has grown stronger with time. When it comes to getting married, older couples bring a unique perspective and charm that younger couples can’t match. In this article, we share some tips on how to embrace your love’s vintage charm and plan a joyful wedding celebration for seasoned sweethearts.
Embrace Your Love’s Vintage Charm
Choose a timeless theme: Vintage-inspired wedding themes are perfect for older couples. Whether you opt for a roaring 20s theme or a rustic countryside affair, a timeless theme adds a touch of nostalgia and romance to your celebration.
Focus on meaningful details: As seasoned sweethearts, you have a lifetime of memories and experiences to draw upon. Use these to create personalized details that reflect your journey together. For example, you could use old family photos, love letters, or meaningful quotes for your wedding decor.Make it an intimate affair: Smaller weddings create a more intimate and meaningful experience, allowing you to focus on what truly matters – your love for each other. Invite only your closest family and friends and choose a venue that fits the size of your guest list.
Say ‘I Do’ Again: How to Plan a Joyful Wedding Celebration for Seasoned Sweethearts
Already married? Instead of a traditional wedding ceremony, consider having a vow renewal. This is a great way to celebrate your love and commitment to each other, without the pressure of a traditional wedding.
Have fun with it: As seasoned sweethearts, you have the freedom to do things your way. Plan a celebration that reflects your unique personalities and interests. Consider incorporating fun games, music, or activities that you both enjoy.
Prioritize your comfort: Comfort is key, especially for senior couples. Choose a venue that is easily accessible and comfortable for you and your guests. Make sure you have enough seating and accommodations for any special requests.
Getting married is a beautiful celebration of love, no matter what age you are. For senior couples, it’s a chance to embrace your vintage charm and create a joyful celebration that reflects your lifetime of love and commitment. We hope these tips inspire you to plan a wedding celebration that is as beautiful and unique as your love story.
by Flor Amor | Apr 11, 2023 | Planning and coordination
Ways to Involve Your Little Ones!
Getting married is an exciting event that involves not only the couple but also their families. If you have kids, involving them in your wedding can make it even more special. From flower girls and ring bearers to junior bridesmaids and groomsmen, there are many ways to let your little ones be a part of your big day. In this article, we’ll share some fun and creative ideas to inspire you to include your kids in your wedding festivities.
Let the Kids be a Part of Your Special Day!
One of the best ways to involve your kids in your wedding is to let them be a part of the ceremony. Depending on their age and personality, they can take on different roles such as flower girl, ring bearer, junior bridesmaid or groomsmen. If you have more than one child, you can assign them different roles or let them walk down the aisle together, holding hands. This will make them feel special and included in your big day.
Another way to involve your kids is to include them in the wedding vows. You can write a special message to them, expressing your love and commitment as a family. This can be a touching moment for everyone present, and your kids will cherish these memories for years to come. You can also give them a special gift, such as a necklace or a bracelet, as a symbol of your love and appreciation.
Fun and Creative Ways to Include Children in Your Wedding!
If you want to get creative, there are many ways to involve your kids in your wedding festivities. You can set up a kids’ corner with games and activities to keep them entertained during the reception. You can also give them disposable cameras and ask them to take pictures of the wedding from their perspective. This will give you a unique and fun perspective of your big day.
Another fun idea is to have a family dance. You can choose a special song that represents your family and dance together. This can be a great way to involve everyone, including grandparents and other family members. You can also have a family photo shoot, where everyone wears matching outfits or accessories. This will create a beautiful and memorable family portrait that you can display in your home.
Involving your kids in your wedding can make it even more special and memorable. Whether you choose to include them in the ceremony or get creative with fun activities, there are many ways to let your little ones be a part of your big day. We hope these ideas have inspired you to create a kid-approved wedding that your whole family will enjoy!