Wedding Registry FAQ | With this Ring....

Wedding Registry FAQ | Cinnamon Wolfe Photography | NJ Wedding Photographer

By Marion Blount of Open Door Shop

As a co-owner of a home decor and wedding registry boutique, Open Door Shop, I am frequently asked questions about the registry process. Some are easy to answer and some questions throw me for a loop. Here are the most frequently asked questions compiled together to help you navigate the wedding registry process.

When should we register?

Since the length of time for engagements seems to vary it is a good rule of thumb to always register before the save the dates are sent out. You should also make sure you are registered prior to your first engagement party or shower.

Wedding Registry FAQ | Cinnamon Wolfe Photography | NJ Wedding Photographer

How do friends and family find out where we are registered?

I am such a fan of wedding websites. They are an easy way to connect people to your online registries. If you are having a shower, include the name of the places you are registered on the back of the invite. It makes it easier for the invitees to buy you a gift that you will love.

Where do we register and how many registries do we create?

I always tell clients to register at one “Big Box” store (Williams Sonoma, Bed Bath and Beyond, Pottery Barn, etc). The big chain stores are great for the basics like a blender, measuring cups, towels, etc.. Then register at two smaller boutiques (like www.opendoorshop.com). You want to register at smaller shops for fine china, pottery, funky barware and even glassware. Think of the smaller registry shops as your chance to personalize. 

Wedding Registry FAQ | Cinnamon Wolfe Photography | NJ Wedding Photographer

How many glasses should we register for?

I will never forget when I was engaged, an owner of a shop telling me that I didn’t need to register for 12 coffee mugs. I insisted on the twelve mugs.  You know what? I have actually used all 12 mugs. Basically, when deciding on the quantity of plates, forks, mugs or anything else on your registry, you need to think about the way you live and entertain. We host family A LOT and that means that everyone drinks coffee in the morning. Sometimes a few mugs are already in the dishwasher from the day before and before you know it, you are setting out the last of the mugs for in laws. 

Wedding Registry FAQ | Cinnamon Wolfe Photography | NJ Wedding Photographer

How quickly should we write a thank you note?

You might not like what I am going to say, but I think you should write a note ASAP. The frequency of online registries in this day and age often leaves the sender anxious to know if you received the gift. I can’t tell you the number of times, we get a phone call from a customer asking if the bride has received the gift. I hate having to break the news to the customer that; “Yes, she actually received it three months ago.” 

Wedding Registry FAQ | Cinnamon Wolfe Photography | NJ Wedding Photographer

I hope this list of FAQs helps you navigate the registry process. Remember, think about your lifestyle when choosing items and most importantly, have fun registering together!

All photos by Anne Rhett Photography


Wedding Registry FAQ | Cinnamon Wolfe Photography | NJ Wedding Photographer

We launched Open Door Shop a little over two years ago with the vision of giving couples the ability to register for table decor that represents their personality, the way they entertain and personal interests. We are passionate about entertaining and want every couple to sense that enthusiasm. 

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Styling your Engagement Photos | With this Ring...

Styling your Engagement Photos | With this Ring | Cinnamon Wolfe Photography | NJ Wedding Photographer

By Lauren Griffin of Little White Dress

Engagement photos are becoming a must-have for newly engaged couples. In an age of selfie sticks and Snapchat, many couples don’t have quality photos with their beau. Your engagement session is the perfect opportunity to stock up on frame-worthy photos, so use this opportunity wisely! I’ve compiled some tips to keep you sane during the process and to avoid wandering aimlessly through malls and spending countless hours shopping online without focus and direction.

Start Early

The week before your engagement shoot is not the right time to start thinking about what you’re going to wear. It can take a few weeks to decide on a look and find all the right pieces that fit your budget. Start the process at least one month prior to your shoot so you have time for returns, exchanges, tailoring, etc.

Get Inspired

Create a Pinterest board specifically for your engagement shoot and start pinning anything that inspires you. Yes, anything. Outfits, hairstyles, locations, photos, candy, puppies... This will really help shape the “theme” of your shoot.

Once you have an idea of what you’re inspired by, pick an overall theme and color palette. For example, a wine picnic with a neutral color palette and elements of natural wood. Plan your outfits, and any props around your theme.

Styling your Engagement Session | Cinnamon Wolfe Photography | NJ Wedding Photographer

Photo by Sweetlife Photography

Tip: avoid sensory overload (and confusion) by choosing one theme and sticking with it. Sitting on a beach sipping hot chocolate in a tutu and a tux just doesn’t make sense.

Get Organized

Now that you have a direction, it’s time to choose your outfit and create a shopping list. Some things to consider while choosing your look…

  • Nothing should fit too tight or too loose. While flowy maxi dresses create movement and photograph beautifully, baggy clothing can swallow you.
Styling your Engagement Session | Cinnamon Wolfe Photography | NJ Wedding Photographer

Photo by Ashlee Mintz

  • Avoid bright neons, loud prints and logos as they tend to detract the attention from you and your fiancé. Wearing white is always a good idea for the bride-to-be.
  • Showcase your personal style. If you never wear a dress, now is not the time to start. Wear something you feel comfortable and confident in. Add subtle accessories to look more polished and less “everyday.”
Styling your Engagement Session | Cinnamon Wolfe Photography | NJ Wedding Photographer

Photo by Ashlee Mintz

  • Achieve a cohesive look with your partner without #twinning. Refer to your theme and color palette to coordinate both outfits but avoid wearing something too similar like plaid shirts or puffy vests. Also, make sure you look like you’re going to the same party, i.e., you should both be either dressy or casual.

Make (Confident) Purchases

Now that you’ve decided on a look and have your shopping list, you’re ready to make confident purchases. What do I mean by confident purchases? Purchases that you feel good about, pieces that you love and make you feel like the best version of yourself.

Although it can be overwhelming, online shopping is a great place to start. Most online stores have filters – use them! You can usually filter by size, color, silhouette, fabric, price, etc. The more filters you use the better, it will save you a lot of time and frustration. Check out trendy boutiques for special accessories and details.

Prep

It’s time to get ready for your close up! Get a manicure (and pedicure, if necessary) and choose a pale pink or nude color (you want the focus to be on your bling!). Consider getting your hair and make-up professionally done too. Not only will your photos look great, it’s also a great opportunity to get to know your wedding hair and make-up artist.

Styling your Engagement Session | Cinnamon Wolfe Photography | NJ Wedding Photographer

Photo by Sweetlife Photograph

Tip: pack a little bag with lip gloss, a mirror, eye drops… anything you might need during the shoot. This is also a ideal  place to store your cell phone (make sure it’s not in your pockets!).

HAVE FUN!

Most importantly, have fun!! It’s not everyday that you get to star in a photo shoot, so smile, laugh, enjoy and relax!

Styling your Engagement Session | Cinnamon Wolfe Photography | NJ Wedding Photographer

Styling your Engagement Session | Cinnamon Wolfe Photography | NJ Wedding Photographer

Little White Dress offers wardrobe styling for the events surrounding your wedding. Owner, Lauren Griffin has years of experience in the fashion industry and will help you find the “perfect” look for all your guest-of-honor moments as a bride-to-be.

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