Your Wedding Beauty Timeline

Getting ready for your wedding day is about more than just picking out the perfect dress.

As any bride-to-be knows, looking and feeling your absolute best requires careful planning and preparation. From your makeup to your jewelry to your hair, every detail counts when you'll be the center of attention.

This blog is your guide to crafting a customized beauty schedule in the lead-up to your big day.

We'll cover everything from when to start that bridal glow skincare routine to the ideal times for makeup trials, hair experimentation, and those all-important self-care appointments.

Six to Nine Months Before the Wedding

While it may seem far off, giving yourself a head start on bridal beauty preparations can pay major dividends when your wedding day finally arrives.

Use this six-to-nine-month window to get into a groove with healthy habits and set yourself up for gorgeous results.

For Glowing Skin: Start Your Care Routine

Now is the time to get serious about a consistent skincare routine tailored to your needs. Whether you're dealing with dullness, acne, fine lines, or other issues, establish a cleansing, treatment, and moisturizing ritual.

Consider professional skincare treatments like facials, peels, or microdermabrasion, too.

Experiment with Hair Color

If you're thinking of going blonder, getting highlights, or making a major color change for your wedding, this is the window to start experimenting.

Give yourself several months to try out different shades and tones to find your perfect bridal hue.

Revamp Your Diet

What you eat can greatly impact your wedding beauty from the inside out.

Focus on a balanced diet packed with skin-nourishing foods like antioxidant-rich fruits and veggies, healthy fats from foods like avocados and salmon, and plenty of protein to support hair and nail growth.

Book a Hair and Makeup Trial

Once you've found your wedding hair and makeup artists, schedule a full preview appointment so they can create your desired bridal look.

This gives you time to refine things like lip color, false lash styles, and hair accessories.

Hair Removal Planning

Decide on your preferred hair removal methods (waxing, shaving, epilating, or laser hair removal).

If you're considering laser hair removal treatments, this is the ideal window to start that process for lasting results.

You'll want to allow time for any sensitivity from waxing or lasers to fully subside before the wedding day.

Grow Out Your Brows and Lashes

Let your brows and lashes get nice and full by avoiding threading, waxing, or lash extensions for now.

You can use fiber mascaras and brow gels to enhance them temporarily before your big day.

Address Any Lingering Issues

Whether it's minimizing breakouts, fading discoloration, growing stronger nails, or treating thinning hair—this is the time to get serious about targeting any other beauty issues.

Also, consider professional teeth whitening treatments if you want a significantly brighter smile for your wedding day. This gives you plenty of time for multiple rounds of whitening.

Four to Five Months Before the Wedding

As your wedding day gets closer, it's time to kick your beauty preparations into an even higher gear.

This four-to-five-month month window is the time to lock in your look and make sure everything comes together seamlessly.

Book Your Hair and Makeup Artists

If you haven't already secured your wedding hair team and makeup artist, now is definitely the time. Most top artists get booked up six to 12 months in advance for weddings.

Once you've found pros you love, send contracts and deposits to officialize everything.

If you haven't done it, be sure to schedule a practice trial run, too, when your beauty professionals can work on nailing your desired look.

Schedule Lash and Brow Appointments

Whether you opt for lash extensions, a lash lift and tint, brow lamination, microblading, or regular threading/waxing, map out all your lash and brow appointments between now and the wedding day.

Extensions and microblading should be done well in advance to look perfectly groomed, while individual tints and shaping can happen closer to your date.

Plan Dress Fittings Around Tans

If you plan on getting a professional spray tan or visiting a tanning bed to achieve a gorgeous bridal glow, you'll want to schedule your dress fittings and alterations strategically around those tanning appointments.

Why? Even with spray tans or tanning lotions, some brides may still develop tan lines from regular sun exposure or certain styles of tanning bed bulbs. Getting fitted for intricate lace or low-back gowns after new tan lines have formed can impact how the dress lays and fits your body's tanned and untanned areas. It's better to get fitted first, then work the tan around those precise lines.

Research Makeup and Hair Inspiration

Now is the time to finalize your vision for your bridal hair and makeup look.

Spend time curating your favorite inspirational images—cuts, colors, and styles; specific products you love; and hair accessories.

Have this inspo ready to communicate your desired look during upcoming trials.

Treat Yourself to Relaxation

While you're working hard on following a rigorous beauty routine, don't neglect self-care.

Schedule a rejuvenating couple's massage with your partner, treat yourself to a restorative yoga class, or simply get a fresh haircut and blowout.

This is also a good time to kick off an at-home teeth whitening regimen using whitening strips or trays to gradually brighten your smile over the next few months.

Finding little pockets of tranquility will keep you glowing from the inside out.

Start Your Fitness Regimen

If you want to tone up and feel your absolute best before walking down the aisle, four to five months before the wedding day is the perfect point to kick off any new fitness routines, classes, or programs.

That allows enough time to see exciting results while not feeling overly rushed. Establish a fun workout schedule you'll stick to, whether it's dance cardio, strength training, hiking, or a bride-to-be boot camp.

Two to Three Months Before The Wedding

With just a couple of months until your wedding day, it's time to have all of your bridal beauty details precisely lined up. Use this window to refine and solidify every aspect of your desired look.

Final Gown Fittings

Schedule your final round of bridal gown fittings and any remaining alterations during this two-to-three-month period.

Having your dress(es) tailored and fitted will be extremely important for feeling confident and comfortable.

At this stage, make sure you've purchased undergarments like shapewear, bras, and slips. Bring all of those pieces to your fittings, along with the shoes you plan to wear, to ensure everything comes together flawlessly.

Don't forget any final bustling for ceremony-to-reception looks.

Bridal Hairstyle Practice

Work closely with your hairstylist to practice and perfect the hairstyles you've envisioned for your ceremony and reception looks.

This is when you'll want to use the actual hair extensions, accessories like vines or combs, and specific products you've Selected so you know exactly how everything will look and stay in place. Make tweaks and adjustments until you're completely smitten with your bridal 'dos.

Makeup Trial #2
After your initial makeup trial run months ago, book a second practice session two to three months out from your date. This allows you to make any last tweaks based on updated inspirational pics, changing preferences on lash styles, lip colors or complexion products with your artist. Once you achieve THE look, they can provide you a list of every product used so there are no surprises on the day-of.

Plan Nail Appointments

Whether you're going for long-lasting gel manicures, acrylic nail extensions, or simple fresh polish, map out all of your nail appointments between now and your wedding day. Don't forget about getting a pedicure, too. Those toes could be front and center in lots of pics.

Book your final mani/pedi for just a day or two out from the wedding so everything is impeccably fresh.

And around the time your taking care of your mani/pedi bookings, schedule your pre-event hair-removal waxings.

Amp Up Your Fitness

If you started a pre-wedding fitness routine a few months back, now is the time to amp it up before your final bridal dress fittings.

Sign up for more frequent workout classes, try HIIT or hot yoga for a boost, and/or adjust your nutrition for some serious muscle toning. You'll feel ultra-confident and strong.

Establish a Sleep Schedule

Fatigue and lack of sleep can show up on your face and body in very visible ways: dull skin, dark circles, lackluster hair, and low energy.

In these final months, make getting restorative sleep an absolute priority. Most experts recommend seven to nine hours per night for bridal glowing skin.

Invest in silk pillowcases, start following a relaxing pre-bedtime ritual, and get yourself on a healthy sleep schedule.

One Month Before the Wedding

With only a month to go until you walk down the aisle, now is the time to have all the major pieces of your bridal beauty puzzle finalized and confirmed. Use this last stretch to tie up any loose ends.

Finalizing Hair and Makeup

Connect with your hair stylist and makeup artist to go over absolute final details like your full roster of assistants, specific day-of schedules, and pricing/payments.

Get crystal clear on all logistics like where you'll be getting ready, if they'll need setup areas, and must-have product lists. This communication ensures no surprises.

Treatment Timing

For services like keratin treatments, facial treatments like HydraFacials, or cosmetic injections like Botox, schedule those about a month out from your date. You want to give your hair, skin, and face plenty of time to settle into their new refreshed state before walking down the aisle.

Pre-Wedding Glow

Whether it's professional spray tanning, visiting a tanning bed, or perfecting your self-tanner routine, start experimenting with your glow methods now.

That way, you can make sure you nail the perfect, even, natural-looking tan for your wedding day.

Brow & Lash Grooming

Get your final brow shaping (waxing, threading, microblading touch-up) and lash treatments (tint, lift, extensions) done around this time as well.

Your beauticians can ensure everything looks full, groomed, and selfie-ready.

Bridal Beauty 'Musts'

Stock up on any beauty necessities you'll want on hand, blotting papers, makeup removing wipes, breath mints/spray, hair products & tools, deodorant, and similar items.

Designate someone to hold onto this "emergency" kit for you on the wedding day.

The Week of the Wedding

This week, stay focused on taking care of yourself, following your usual routines, and making peace with any lingering to-dos.

Here is your wedding beauty timeline for your final countdown.

Maintain Routines

Stick to the diet, exercise, skincare, haircare, nail care, and wellness regimens you've established over the previous months.

Having these consistencies will keep you looking and feeling your best. Avoid anything too new or extreme right before your wedding day.

Final Tan

Whether you're visiting a spray tan salon or perfecting your self-tanning application, get your final round of wedding glow two to three days before your event.

This allows the color to fully develop and look amazingly natural.

Fresh Haircut or Trim

Schedule one last appointment with your hairstylist three to five days out for a clean up trim or mini shape-up.

Removing any splits or weight will enhance your hair's movement and body.

Teeth Whitening

Complete any final teeth whitening treatments for a brilliant, bright smile.

Avoid consuming tooth-staining foods/drinks now.

Mani/Pedi

Head to the nail salon for your fresh mani/pedi 1-2 days before the wedding so nails look impeccable. Opt for long-lasting gel or powder to prevent chipping or smudging.

Your Wedding Day

After months of planning and preparation, your wedding day is finally here!

Use these tips to ensure your beauty look lasts from the first look to the last dance:

Morning Routine

-Wake up a bit earlier than needed to avoid rushing.

-Follow your normal skincare routine, allowing time for products to fully soak in.

-Hydrate well and eat a healthy breakfast to stay energized.

-Take relaxing deep breaths and sips of coffee/tea while your beauty team works their magic.

Touch-Up Kit

-Have your makeup artist provide a touch-up kit with lipstick, powder, and other make-up essentials.

-Designate someone to hold onto this and do periodic touch-ups.

-Keep blotting papers on hand for shine control.

-Your hairstylist can supply travel-size hairspray and bobby pins.

Drink Water

-Make sure to keep sipping water throughout the day and evening.

-Avoid indulging in too many alcoholic drinks, which can dehydrate skin and lips.

Rest and Relax

-Step away for a few minutes of down time after your ceremony.

-Put your feet up and recharge with a healthy snack.

-This allows time to freshen up before reception festivities.

Just breathe and soak in every joyous moment--you've prepared for this and you'll look simply radiant.

The Bell Tower on 34th, a leading luxury wedding venue in Houston, is committed to helping recently engaged couples realize their wedding vision.

Our Instagrammable venue, a cherished Texas landmark, is known for its beautiful garden settings and waterwall.

Contact us to learn how we can help you create an unforgettable event.

The Bell Tower on 34th

901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018

(713) 868-2355

Dapper Groom: A Guide to Wedding Day Style

While all eyes may be on your bride's gorgeous gown on your wedding day, as the groom, your attire will play a big role in setting the tone and style for your celebration, too.

We know you have quite a few factors to consider when it comes to nailing your wedding day look. To help, we've compiled some guidelines on selecting groom wedding apparel, including tips on fabrics, colors, accessories, and the latest trends, to help you look and feel your best on your big day.

Suit vs. Tuxedo: Pros and Cons

One of the first decisions you'll need to make is whether to wear a suit or a tuxedo. Both options have their advantages and drawbacks, so weigh your options carefully.

Suits: Pros:

-Suits are more versatile and can be worn for other formal occasions.

-They're generally more affordable than a tuxedo.

-You'll have a wider range of colors and styles available.

Cons:

-A suit may not be as formal as a tuxedo for an evening wedding.

-Your outfit will require more coordination with your groomsmen's attire.

Tuxedos: Pros:

-Tuxedos create a classic and formal look, perfect for evening weddings.

-They're easier to coordinate with groomsmen's attire.

-You can't deny their timeless and sophisticated style.

Cons:

-Generally, a tuxedo will be more expensive than a suit.

-It's less versatile for future use.

-A tuxedo is considered formal attire: It may not be an ideal choice for a casual or daytime wedding.

Day vs. Night Weddings

The time of day you're getting married also plays a role in determining the appropriate level of formality for your wedding day attire.

For daytime weddings, suits in lighter colors or breathable fabrics like linen or cotton are popular choices.

Dark suits or tuxedos are usually reserved for evening affairs: They have a more formal and elegant feel.

Formal Wedding Considerations

If you're having a traditional, formal wedding, a tuxedo is often the way to go.

Choose a classic black or midnight blue tuxedo with a crisp white dress shirt and a bow tie or necktie.

Add a stylish cummerbund or vest to complete the look.

For a touch of sophistication, consider a peaked lapel or a double-breasted jacket.

Outdoor Wedding Considerations

Outdoor events present their own set of challenges when it comes to choosing the right wedding attire.

This is particularly true for a summer wedding when you'll want an outfit that keeps you cool and comfortable while still looking sharp.

Linen suits in light colors like tan, ivory, or pale blue are a classic choice. Pair them with a crisp white dress shirt and a lightweight tie or pocket square for a touch of seasonal flair.

If you prefer a more casual wedding look, consider a seersucker suit or a linen blend blazer with chinos or dress pants.

Don't forget to consider your wedding venue's terrain: If you'll be walking on grass or uneven surfaces, choose shoes with good traction.

Winter Wedding Considerations

Winter weddings call for warmth and sophistication.

A classic black or charcoal grey suit in a heavier wool or wool blend fabric is a timeless choice.

You can also opt for a velvet blazer or a tuxedo with a sleek overcoat for added warmth and style.

Don't forget to accessorize with a stylish scarf or pocket square to complement your look.

Fabrics and Colors

The fabric and color choices you make can significantly impact the overall look and feel of your wedding attire.

Here are some popular options to consider.

Fabrics

-Wool: A classic and versatile choice, suitable for both suits and tuxedos.

-Linen: Lightweight and breathable, perfect for warm-weather weddings.

-Cotton: Affordable and comfortable, great for casual or rustic weddings.

-Silk: Luxurious and smooth, often used for tuxedo jackets or dress shirts.

-Velvet: Rich and elegant, ideal for winter weddings or formal affairs.

Colors

-Black suit: A timeless and formal choice for tuxedos or suits.

-Navy blue: Sophisticated and versatile, a navy suit is a popular option.

-Grey suit: Available in a range of shades from light to charcoal, a grey suit is stylish and modern.

-Khaki or tan suit: Relaxed and casual, perfect for outdoor or beach weddings.

-Burgundy/plum: A rich and bold color choice for a touch of drama.

-Light blue suit: Fresh and summery, a great option for warm-weather weddings.

Suit and Tuxedo Fits

Not all suits and tuxedos are created equal when it comes to achieving that perfect tailored look.

Understanding the different fit styles is key to selecting an option that flatters your body type.

Classic Fit: The classic fit provides a more generous, relaxed cut through the chest, waist, and legs. It's a safe choice for most body types.

Modern/Slim Fit: Slimmer through the chest, waist, and arms with slightly tapered legs. This streamlined silhouette creates a sharp, contemporary look popular with younger grooms.

Super Slim/Skinny Fit: Ultra-slim and tailored throughout for an exceptionally trim silhouette. This edgy style works best for very slim builds.

Athletic Fit: Cut with room in the shoulders/chest but a trimmer waist and seat for a masculine, confident look on muscular frames.

Getting the Right Fit

While off-the-rack suits can look great, getting professionally measured and fitted by a tailor ensures an unbeatable customized look and feel. Even small adjustments like nipping in the waist, hemming sleeves or adjusting the pant length can drastically elevate the fit.

For the finish you want, don't skip working with an experienced tailor who can adjust your suit to your precise measurements and posture. Ask about getting a basted fitting before your final suit is constructed for the highest level of customization.

Personalizing Your Look

Even if adhering to tradition is a priority for your wedding day, adding a few personal touches can help you stand out and showcase your unique wedding style.

Consider incorporating elements that reflect your personality or the wedding's theme.

Special touches could include:

-Patterned socks or fun shoelaces

-Colorful pocket squares or boutonnieres

-Unique cufflinks or tie bars

-Custom embroidery or monograms

-Stylish suspenders or braces

Shirt Selections

While the wedding suit or tuxedo jacket gets most of the attention, the shirt you choose is equally important in completing your overall look. The right shirt can elevate your outfit and add a personal touch.

For Formal Weddings

If you're going with black-tie attire, a crisp white shirt is the classic choice. Look for dress shirts made from high-quality cotton or cotton blends with a subtle sheen. You can opt for a wing-tip collar to pair with a bow tie or a spread collar for neckties. French cuffs also lend an extra dapper touch.

For Semi-Formal/Casual Weddings

With a wedding suit, you have more flexibility with your shirt's style and color. Light colors like pale blue, pink, or lavender can inject some fashionable flair. Or go for subtle patterns like micro-checks, striped, or herringbone designs. When it comes to fabrics, opt for high-quality cotton, linens, or cotton-linen blends that breathe well.

Shirt Fit

No matter which style you want to wear, proper fit will be crucial. Your shirt should follow your form without being overly tight or billowing. Leave enough room to move freely but sleek enough to tuck crisply into your pants.

Consider having your dress shirt professionally altered for a truly tailored silhouette.

Finishing Touches

Pay attention to the small details that can make a big impact: boutonniere, cufflinks, tie bar, or collar stays. These accessories allow you to further personalize your shirt while staying polished. Having spare shirts on hand is also wise in case of any spills or mishaps on the big day.

Your Shoes

Your shoes are just as important as the rest of your wedding day outfit: They'll help shape your look and have a big impact on your comfort. Opt for well-crafted, comfortable dress shoes that complement your suit or tuxedo.

Classic options include Oxford or Derby shoes in black or brown leather. For outdoor or rustic weddings, consider a pair of stylish boots or loafers.

Coordinating with Your Groomsmen

As the groom, it's essential to coordinate your attire with your groomsmen to create a cohesive and polished look. Decide on a color scheme and style that complements your own outfit, and provide clear guidelines to your groomsmen on what to wear. You can mix and match suits and tuxedos or have everyone in identical outfits – the choice is yours!

Groom Apparel Trends

Like any fashion industry, groom's wedding apparel is constantly evolving, with new trends emerging each season. Here are some of the latest styles and trends to keep an eye on:

-Textured fabrics: From boucle to corduroy, textured fabrics add depth and interest to your look.

-Pastel shades: Soft, muted colors like blush pink, sage green, or a powder blue suit can be a refreshing change from traditional hues.

-Printed suits: Bold and daring, printed suits in patterns like florals or paisley make a statement.

-Slim-fit silhouettes: Modern, tailored fits with a sleek and streamlined look are in vogue.

-Vegan suits: As sustainable fashion gains momentum, eco-friendly options like vegan suits are becoming more prevalent.

Choosing the perfect wedding attire is an important part of your big day. By considering factors like the formality of your event, the season, and your personal wedding style preferences, you can find an outfit that not only looks dapper but also makes you feel confident and comfortable.

Don't be afraid to add a few personal touches to make your look truly unique, and remember to coordinate with your wedding party for a cohesive and stylish overall aesthetic.

The Bell Tower on 34th, one of Houston’s leading wedding venues with a chapel, is committed to helping recently engaged couples realize their wedding vision.

Our Instagrammable venue near The Woodlands, TX, is a beautiful site for weddings, corporate events, parties, and rehearsal dinners.

Contact us to learn how we can help you create an unforgettable event.

The Bell Tower on 34th

901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018

(713) 868-2355

Making Your Rehearsal Dinner Unforgettable with Creative Themes

The rehearsal dinner is a treasured tradition that kicks off the wedding weekend festivities. It's a chance for the two families to come together, share stories, and celebrate the soon-to-be newlyweds before their big day. While the rehearsal dinner was once a casual affair, many couples are now putting their personal stamp on this pre-wedding event with a carefully chosen theme.

What is a Themed Rehearsal Dinner?

A themed rehearsal dinner is exactly what it sounds like—it's when the couple chooses a unifying theme and incorporates it throughout the decor, food, drinks, and overall ambiance of the pre-wedding celebration.

Popular themes for a rehearsal dinner run the gamut from travel-inspired fiestas paying homage to a favorite destination, to representations of the couple's cherished hobbies or interests like sports, books, movies, or games.

Growing Trend

Incorporating a theme into the rehearsal dinner has become an increasingly popular trend as couples look to put their own unique spin on wedding celebrations.

The rehearsal dinner offers the perfect opportunity to get creative and have fun with a theme in a more relaxed, intimate setting before the bigger main event of the wedding day itself.

There are a few reasons why themed rehearsals have taken off.

Personal Touch

Incorporating a theme into the rehearsal dinner allows the couple to infuse more personal touches and share a piece of who they are with friends and family. The rehearsal dinner typically has a smaller guest list than the full wedding reception, so it's a great way for your nearest and dearest to glimpse your personalities through the theme.

Social Media's Influence

Themed parties and celebrations have become hugely popular in general as social media has normalized "event decor" and given people inspiration for creative ideas.

Increased Flexibility

With so many couples foregoing traditional wedding packages, they have more flexibility to customize the rehearsal dinner however they'd like at a separate offsite location.

Part of the Fun

A theme at the rehearsal dinner builds anticipation and excitement for the wedding day as guests get a sneak peek into the couple's shared interests and styles.

Pros and Cons of a Themed Dinner

Like any wedding decision, incorporating a theme into your rehearsal dinner comes with some pros and cons to weigh.

Pros

-It's a fun way to infuse more personal style and get guests hyped for the wedding celebrations.

-You can spotlight your love story, interests, culture, or heritage in a creative way.

-Themed food/drinks and decor make the meal and the night more memorable and Instagrammable.

It helps break the ice if you're combining your immediate family members and friends from different circles.

Cons

-Theming all elements from start to finish requires more effort in planning and execution.

-You run the risk of the theme coming across as cheesy or overdone if not executed well.

-No matter how "on theme" you make it, the dinner is still primarily about your wedding ceremony rehearsal.

-Themed rehearsal dinner decor, rehearsal dinner invitations, rentals, and catering will increase your expenses.

Tips for Choosing and Executing Your Theme

If you've decided a theme is the way to go for your rehearsal dinner, here are some tips for making sure it's a smash hit.

Start with what resonates with you and your partner. Your shared interests, backgrounds, or love story can serve as inspiration. Or think of a favorite movie, book, travel spot, or shared pastime you're both passionate about.

As you consider your possibilities, think about how you can incorporate the theme through all five senses—what it will look, taste, smell, sound and feel like. The more thoroughly you link all elements, the more impactful it will be.

Remember that subtlety is key—a few thoughtful nods to your theme go a long way. You don't want to go overboard and have it look like a children's birthday party.

You might want to consider your wedding festivities' theme as you research potential locations for your rehearsal dinner. Choose a venue that either aligns with your theme or can be easily transformed.

And, of course, you'll need to consider the costs of executing a theme at your rehearsal dinner. One strategy that will help you reign in excessive spending would be to prioritize and allocate a portion of your budget towards the theme areas that matter most to you both instead of splurging across the board.

We also encourage you to loop in your parents, immediate family members, and members of your wedding party early so they can provide theme inspiration and assistance. You'll need all hands on deck.

Inspiration: Rehearsal Dinner Themes

Now for the fun part: theme ideas to spark your imagination. Here are some possibilities.

Travel/Destination

-Transform your rehearsal dinner into a Mexican fiesta with colorful tablescapes, mariachi, street tacos, and margaritas.

-For a Tuscan vineyard theme, offer Chianti wine paired with regional cuisine like fresh pasta and provincial decor like terracotta.

-Host a tropical Hawaiian luau with flower garlands and grass hula skirts on chairs, fire dancers, and even a roasted pig.

-Another option is an around-the-world cuisine sampling. Create a "Love on Tour" setup with distinct areas for drinks/appetizers/desserts from places you've traveled together

Eras

-Create a Roaring 20s speakeasy setting for your rehearsal dinner. Provide disposable flasks for cocktails, and if you want to go all out, hire (or enlist) Charleston dancers.

-Another fun option is to go with a 1950s diner theme complete with neon signs, jukebox, milkshakes, and burgers.

Hobbies

-You and your wedding rehearsal dinner guests can relax together in a book lovers' literary lounge with plenty of books and cozy reading nook vibes.

-Try a golf clubhouse theme with plaid decor and club-themed cuisine like hotdogs and beer. Your decor could include a putting green.

-Or, create a gaming paradise filled with classic arcade games, Pac-Man decor, and pixelated foods.

Themed Rehearsal Brunch

While dinner is the traditional rehearsal event, many couples are putting a fresh spin on things by hosting a themed rehearsal brunch instead.

A morning or mid-day brunch celebrates the upcoming nuptials in a bright, cheerful way and can be more conducive to schedules. It also opens up new and creative theme possibilities.

Parisian Patisserie Brunch

Transport guests to a chic Parisian cafe with aesthetic touches like sculptural bread displays, mini antique birdcages, floral prints and lace accents.

Garden Party Brunch

An outdoor garden setting naturally lends itself to a whimsical, tea party-esque brunch theme. Decorate with lush florals and greenery, mismatched vintage china, delicate lace accents and an array of petite savory and sweet bites.

Breakfast Around the World

For the couple that loves to travel, celebrate different morning cuisine traditions from various cultures. Have distinct food stations for things like Mediterranean mezze, Mexican chilaquiles, Belgian waffles or liege waffles.

No matter if you choose a wedding rehearsal dinner or a brunch, injecting a fun, personalized theme allows you to creatively fete your upcoming marriage in a way that is uniquely "you" as a couple.

More Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Ideas

More possibilities to consider for your rehearsal dinner include:

-Vintage car photo area: Create a vintage car photo area for guests to take fun and memorable pictures.

-Rustic farm tablescape: Dine around one long farm table for a cozy and intimate feel at a rustic rehearsal dinner.

-Elevated Western rehearsal dinner: Incorporate wood tables, chairs, and string lights with pastel blue table runners and goblets.

-Italian/lemon rehearsal dinner: Honor your Italian heritage with an Amalfi Coast-themed dinner, featuring lemons as decor, olive oil place cards, and gelato for dessert.

-Coastal rehearsal dinner: Create a beachy, coastal vibe with neutral colors, botanicals, and decorative oysters.

-Desert rehearsal dinner: Embrace the beauty of the desert with cacti, succulents, and earthy tones.

-Romantic Italian rehearsal dinner: Create a romantic atmosphere with family-style dishes, Frank Sinatra music, and limoncello.

Honestly, the list of wedding rehearsal dinner ideas is endless.

The key is choosing a theme that excites you as a couple and running with it through personal, thoughtful touches.

At the end of the day, your theme should be a fun way to celebrate your love story with your loved ones and those closest to you before the wedding.

The Bell Tower on 34th, an elegant Houston wedding venue with a chapel on site, is committed to helping recently engaged couples realize their wedding vision.

Our Instagrammable venue near The Woodlands, TX, is a beautiful site known for beautiful gardens, a sweeping staircase, and our stunning waterwall.

Contact us to learn how we can help you create an unforgettable event.

The Bell Tower on 34th

901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018

(713) 868-2355

Live Music Options for Your Wedding: Going Beyond Traditional Bands

Your wedding day is one of the most memorable and cherished events in your life, and the right music can elevate the experience, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for you and your guests.

While traditional wedding bands are a popular choice, many couples are now exploring alternative live music options to add a touch of uniqueness and personal flair to their special day.

Whether you're looking to incorporate something unexpected or want to pay homage to your cultural heritage, there's a world of creative possibilities waiting to be discovered.

Why Choose an Alternative to a Traditional Wedding Band?

There are several reasons why you might want to consider alternatives to bands for your wedding music—or think about hiring creative entertainment in addition to a great band.

For one, you may find that incorporating live music into your wedding is a meaningful way to honor your heritage and create a deeply personal celebration.

Or, you may feel that a traditional wedding band wouldn't fit your style or the overall aesthetic you want at your wedding. If you plan to have a rustic or vintage-themed wedding, for example, you might want to choose live music that complements that style like a bluegrass band or a group that plays period-specific music.

Or, maybe you want to create a more intimate atmosphere. A traditional band tends to create a loud, energetic atmosphere, which is great, but that may not be quite what you want for a smaller, more low-key wedding. In this case, you might opt for a solo musician or a smaller ensemble that can provide a more subtle and romantic ambiance.

Beyond that, some couples choose an alternative to a traditional band for their wedding reception because they want to surprise guests with something unique and memorable. With so many weddings featuring similar songs and dance routines, you might want to stand out by choosing a band or performer that's unexpected and exciting for your wedding.

Ideas and Trends for Creative Live Wedding Music

So, what are some creative live wedding music options for your wedding reception? Here are a few ideas and trends that we're seeing.

Mariachi Bands

Mariachi bands are a fun and festive option to keep your reception on a high note, and they're especially popular for Mexican-themed or destination weddings.

Mariachi bands feature professional musicians playing trumpets, violins, and guitars. They can present a mix of traditional Mexican songs and contemporary hits.

Gospel Choirs

Not only are gospel choirs a beautiful addition to any wedding ceremony, but they can bring a touch of soul and spirituality to your big day.

These choirs typically feature a group of singers who perform traditional gospel songs, as well as contemporary pop and R&B tunes with a gospel twist.

Marching Bands

Make a grand entrance or exit with a high-energy marching band leading the way.

Their lively rhythms and showmanship will create a memorable spectacle for you and your guests.

Jazz Trio or Quartet

Evoke the sophistication and romance of the golden era with a jazz band performing classic standards or modern interpretations.

Ceremony Bands

Ceremony bands are a great alternative to traditional wedding bands, and they can provide beautiful music for your ceremony. Ceremony bands typically consist of a small group of musicians, such as a string quartet or a harpist, and they can perform a mix of classical and contemporary songs.

Pianist or Harpist

For an elegant and intimate atmosphere, a skilled pianist or harpist can create an enchanting ambiance during your wedding ceremony or cocktail hour.

These musicians can play a variety of classical and contemporary songs and create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your wedding guests.

A Themed Ensemble

From a vintage swing band to a folksy bluegrass group, consider hiring an ensemble that aligns with your wedding's theme or overall aesthetic.

Guitarist or Acoustic Duo

A talented guitarist or acoustic duo can provide a warm, intimate sound for your ceremony or cocktail hour, creating a cozy and romantic vibe.

Cultural Ensembles

Celebrate your heritage with traditional music ensembles, such as a Chinese erhu ensemble, an Indian sitar group, or a Scottish bagpipe band.

A Singer-Songwriter or Folk Band

These groups can provide a more laid-back and acoustic atmosphere and can play a variety of original and cover songs.

DJ and Live Performers

For the best of both worlds, consider hiring a great DJ to handle the main event music while incorporating live performances from musicians or entertainers during key moments throughout your wedding celebration—or your wedding after-party.

A DJ will encourage your guests to get out on the dance floor, and the alternative wedding bands or entertainers will help you personalize your big day.

More Creative Entertainment Options

In addition to the possibilities listed above, you have many other creative music options to consider for your wedding.

Here are a few more ideas:

-A cappella group

-Steel drum band

-String quartet

-Saxophone quartet

-Klezmer band

-Flamenco dancers

-Samba dancers

-Irish step dancers

-Belly dancers

-Bollywood dancers

Tips for Selecting the Right Musical Entertainment

If the idea of less-than-traditional wedding music appeals to you, but you're not sure how to find the right choice for you, we have some tips that can help.

Establish Your Vision

Before exploring options, clearly define the overall vibe and atmosphere you want to create for your wedding day.

If you're having a formal, black-tie wedding, for example, a traditional band or jazz trio might be the best fit. If you're having a more casual, laid-back wedding, a solo guitarist or mariachi band might be a good choice.

Consider Your Wedding Venue

Factoring in the size, location, and acoustics of your venue will help you determine the most suitable live music option—or at least rule out options that won't fit.

Focus on performances and groups that are well-suited to your wedding space.

Attend Live Performances

Whenever possible, attend live performances of the acts you're considering to get a firsthand experience of their sound, energy, and stage presence.

Discuss Logistics

Make sure the musical acts you're interested in can accommodate your specific needs including setup requirements, performance duration, and any special requests or considerations.

Communicate Your Preferences

Provide the musicians with a detailed overview of your desired set list, song styles, and any specific musical moments you'd like to incorporate like your first dance.

Obtain References and Reviews

As with any vendor, gather references and read reviews to be sure you're hiring professional and reliable musical acts.

Consider Your Budget

While alternative live music options might be more affordable than a traditional wedding band, be sure to factor in costs such as travel expenses, equipment rentals, and any additional fees.

Have a Backup Plan

No matter how well you plan, there's always a chance that something could go wrong. Make sure to have a backup plan in place, such as a playlist of recorded music, in case of emergencies.

Choosing the right live music for your wedding can be a challenging task, but with so many creative options available, you can find the perfect fit for your special day. Whether you're looking for something traditional or unique, elegant or playful, there's a music option out there that can help make your wedding truly unforgettable.

The Bell Tower on 34th, which has earned a reputation for being the best wedding venue in Houston, is committed to helping recently engaged couples realize their wedding vision.

Our Instagrammable venue near the Houston Heights features full event-planning services.

Learn more about holding a wedding here.

The Bell Tower on 34th

901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018

(713) 868-2355

Enchanting Wedding Reception Centerpiece Ideas

The wedding reception centerpiece holds a special place in the heart of the celebration.

It's the focal point that ties together the entire table setting, adds personality to your wedding venue, and sets the ambiance for the festivities.

With countless options available, choosing the perfect centerpiece can be overwhelming. To help you, we've put together a collection of wedding centerpiece ideas and considerations to help you curate stunning centerpieces that reflect your style, theme, and the essence of your special day.

A Few Considerations

Before we dive into the specifics, there are a few things that the bride should keep in mind when deciding on centerpieces.

Budget

Determine what you can reasonably spend per centerpiece and work within your budget constraints. Quality does not always mean expensive.

Theme

Think about using centerpieces that align with the overall theme of your wedding. If you're having a vintage-themed wedding, for instance, you may want to opt for more classic and elegant centerpieces.

Color Palette

Choose centerpieces that complement your wedding's color palette. This will help create a cohesive look and feel throughout your reception.

Season

Consider the time of year and the season of your wedding. Spring and summer weddings may call for more florals and greenery, while fall and winter weddings may benefit from warm, rich colors and textures.

Your Wedding Venue

Take your wedding venue's lighting and decor into account. You may want to choose centerpieces that complement the atmosphere at your wedding venue, or you may opt for centerpieces that contrast with the venue's aesthetic to create a unique look.

Guest Visibility

Avoid massive arrangements that completely obstruct guests’ views across the reception tables. Leave some line of sight.

Reception Tables: Shapes and Sizes

Opt for wedding centerpieces that enhance rather than overwhelm your reception tables so your wedding guests can chat comfortably.

Personalities

Incorporate special interests, hobbies, and details that represent you and your love story.

Ideal Flowers for Wedding Centerpieces

When it comes to selecting your wedding centerpiece flowers and greenery, you’ll want to choose varieties that both fit within your budget and coordinate with your wedding colors.

Some top options for floral centerpieces include:

-Roses: Classic, romantic, and available in many colors. Roses are great for formal or modern weddings.

-Peonies: Beloved for their lush, ruffled blooms and sweet scent. Fit for boho chic weddings.

-Hydrangeas: Full, fluffy blooms that work well in wedding centerpieces. Especially nice in pastel palettes.

-Dahlias: Impressive flowers that make a statement. Perfect if you love bold colors.

-Tulips: A spring favorite available in vibrant hues. These colorful blooms are lovely for casual outdoor weddings.

-Chrysanthemums: Available year-round in every color and budget-friendly. Great filler flower for a floral centerpiece.

-Calla Lilies: These elegant flowers are often used in modern and minimalist wedding centerpieces, adding a touch of sophistication to any reception space.

-Sunflowers: For a more rustic and playful look, consider using sunflowers in your wedding centerpieces. They add a warm, cheerful touch to any reception.

-Succulents: Trendy option that works well in rustic, vintage and bohemian weddings.

Look for in-season flowers for the best pricing and locally grown varieties to keep things eco-friendly. Your florist can provide input about what wedding flowers are best for the month of your event.

Aligning Centerpieces with Your Wedding's Color Palette

As we mentioned, one of the key considerations for choosing centerpieces is ensuring they work with your wedding's color palette.

You can approach this by selecting centerpiece flowers that complement your chosen color palette, which will contribute to a sense of harmony and sophistication at your reception. Or, instead of focusing on your wedding flowers, you can select vases and containers that complement your wedding colors. For instance, if your wedding colors are pink and white, consider using a pink vase with white flowers.

Another strategy is to add accents in your wedding colors to your wedding centerpieces. You can use ribbons, candles, or other decorative elements to add pops of color to your arrangements.

We would add that creating floral centerpieces in colors that complement your palette isn't a rule set in stone. Depending on the overall vibe you're going for at your wedding, you can always take a bolder approach and experiment with contrasting colors to add visual interest and drama to your tablescapes.

Wedding Centerpiece Trends

As you're considering wedding centerpiece ideas, you can always consider looks and approaches that are popular with other couples.

Some popular trends include:

Unique Containers

Instead of traditional vases, consider using unique containers such as mason jars, wooden crates, or metal urns.

Lush Greenery

Lush greenery is a popular choice for centerpieces, adding a touch of natural beauty to any reception. Try using a variety of greens including eucalyptus, ferns, and succulents.

Candles

Candles are a classic choice for a wedding centerpiece, and they can add a touch of warmth and ambiance to any reception. Consider using pillar candles, taper candles, or votive candles in various sizes and shapes.

Geometric Shapes

Geometric shapes add a touch of modernity and elegance to a reception. You can achieve this look with geometric-shaped vases, containers, or decorative elements.

Personalized Elements

Personalized elements can make your wedding centerpieces truly special and unique. Look into monograms, photos, or other personal touches that reflect your love story.

Sustainable Florals

Embrace eco-friendly practices by opting for locally sourced, seasonal blooms and greenery, reducing your wedding's carbon footprint.

Mix-and-Match Elements

Combine different textures, heights, and materials to create dynamic centerpiece arrangements that captivate the eye and spark conversation.

Non-Floral Alternatives

Explore unconventional centerpiece options like lanterns, succulents, or fruit arrangements for a memorable twist.

Loose, Wildflower Look

These centerpieces have an unstructured, natural feel.

The options are endless when it comes to finding unique centerpiece concepts that you love. Continue reading for specific ideas you can take inspiration from or replicate.

Creative Wedding Centerpiece Ideas

Looking for ways to make your reception table's appearance stand out? Here are some unique wedding centerpiece ideas to spark your imagination:

-Glass bowl or vase overflowing with a lush, abundant mix of flowers and greenery. A classic, romantic look.

-Low rectangular boxwood planters running down the center of long farm tables for a modern rustic feel.

-Simple apothecary jars filled with wildflowers and tied with a bow. Understated vintage charm.

-Alternating giant paper poms in your wedding colors down a harvest wood table. Fun and playful.

-Open terrariums formed with wire spheres and filled with air plants or succulents. Modern tropical vibe.

-Mix green apples, flowers, and candles in a glass vase or bowl for a fall wedding. Seasonal and sweet.

-Suspend a mini macrame plant hanger above each place setting for boho style.

-Create a woodland theme with moss, ferns, pinecones, and tea lights clustered on a round wood slice.

-Interactive Centerpieces: Interactive centerpieces can add a touch of fun and excitement to any reception. Consider using centerpieces that allow guests to engage with them. One example would be a "love letter" station where guests could write notes for you and your partner.

Centerpiece Ideas for Themed Weddings

If your wedding reception revolves around a specific theme, you can always allow that to inform your table decor choices.

Here are some inspiring ideas for wedding centerpieces.

Tropical Wedding Centerpieces

These wedding table centerpieces could include:

-Pineapples, palm leaves, anthuriums. and orchids

-A glass bowl filled with river rocks and floating candles

-Bright flowers in a hand-carved tiki bowl

-Sand and seashells arranged in vases with colorful flowers

Rustic Wedding Centerpieces

How about trying the following on your wedding tables?

-Mason jars tied with burlap and raffia bows holding wildflowers

-Wheelbarrow or galvanized bucket overflowing with blooms and greenery

-Birch logs with floral foam attached to hold arrangements

-Open birdcages with floral designs inside

Literary Wedding Centerpieces

Are you a book lover? Have fun with these wedding centerpiece possibilities:

-Dictionary pages, sheet music, or book pages folded into flowers

-Old books stacked with jewels or candles on top

-Glass vases with flowers and book page accents

-Quills, magnifying glasses, and other library accessories mixed in

Once you select a wedding theme, it will become easy to brainstorm centerpiece ideas that help set the scene.

Ideas for Beautiful Wedding Centerpieces

While trends come and go, some design elements will always make for elegant, romantic wedding reception table decor.

-All-white blooms in various shapes and textures: roses, hydrangea, tulips, ranunculus, and more.

-Another idea is to arrange candles in crystal holders of varying heights to add dimension and atmosphere. Intersperse with flowers.

-A formal arrangement of wedding flowers in a silver bowl or vase for a classic luxurious feel.

-A floral centerpiece made of cascading blooms like peonies or lilacs in a glass cylinder vase or urn.

-A lush loose bouquet styled to look freshly picked from the garden would make a beautiful centerpiece.

-A greenery garland down the table with loose blooms tucked in for an organic look.

-Simple glass bud vases holding a single stem for a refined, minimalist aesthetic.

Focus on creating full, bountiful arrangements using high-quality blooms and decorative items.

Ideas for Fun Wedding Centerpieces

Of course, you can go in another direction and have fun with unique wedding centerpiece ideas like:

-Fill clear umbrellas with flowers and suspend upside down from the ceiling above your reception tables.

-Stack different-sized cake stands with flowers and candles on each layer.

-Create LEGO sculptures for your wedding table centerpieces, or arrange childhood toys that belonged to you and your spouse-to-be.

-Display meaningful travel souvenirs, postcards. or maps you collected together.

-Suspend a paper globe, origami cranes, or other handmade decor.

-Feature favorite snacks or movie memorabilia for a pop culture vibe at your wedding reception.

-Delight your guests with unexpected details like hidden messages, whimsical motifs, or playful accents that add a touch of whimsy to your centerpieces.

Infusing your personalities and passions into the centerpieces is a great way to make things meaningful. Focus on telling your love story.

Spring Wedding Centerpiece Ideas

This vibrant season is ideal for:

-Tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and other spring bulbs in pastel hues

-Calla lilies, which are elegant with a modern vibe

-Centerpieces showcasing fruits like lemons, limes, or kumquats

-Flowering branches like cherry blossom, forsythia, or lilac

-Simple glass vases or bud vases

-Mixes of tulips and greenery in milk glass vases for a vintage feel

-Paper pom poms, butterflies, or fans

-Moss, bird nests, and painted wood eggs

Summer Wedding Centerpiece Ideas

If you're planning a summer wedding, consider these ideas to showcase your wedding style.

-Dahlias, zinnias, roses, or sunflowers in vibrant warm tones

-Grasses and wildflower varieties

-Sand and shells for beach-themed weddings

-Succulents, cacti, and air plants

-Fruits like figs, plums, and cherries

-Pink peonies and white hydrangea for a romantic look

-Brightly colored glassware and accessories

Take advantage of the season’s lush, cheery flowers and nature-inspired accents.

Outdoor Wedding Centerpiece Ideas

If your wedding reception will be outside, allow the setting to inspire your arrangements. Here are a few simple wedding centerpiece ideas, along with some tips.

-Go with low, loose designs that won’t blow away in the breeze packed in baskets, planters or crates.

-Opt for potted flowering plants that guests can take home.

-Choose rustic elements like moss and succulents.

-Select weather-resistant décor. Aavoid real candles in windy areas

-Greenery and white blooms would pop against wood tables

-Incorporate natural elements like stones, feathers, vines, and driftwood.

-Choose durable blooms and heavy vases and containers to prevent centerpieces from toppling over.

More Tips for Choosing Centerpieces

-Set the vibe with your centerpiece colors and textures. Do you want a look that's soft and elegant? Dramatic and bold? Rustic and casual?

-Fill low, wide cylinder vases with flowers and greenery to make long banquet tables look bountiful.

-Mixing silver, gold, and blush metals and accessories creates a glam yet understated look.

-Group sets of smaller arrangements down each table for maximum visual impact.

-Add extra greenery to your arrangements to stretch your flower budget further.

With thoughtful planning, your wedding reception centerpieces can turn out even more beautiful than you imagined. Allow these ideas to stir your creativity and don’t be afraid to think outside the box. The right combination of flowers and decor will set an unforgettable scene for your celebration.

The Bell Tower on 34th is one of Houston’s leading wedding venues with stairs, beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces, and an onsite chapel.

Contact us to learn more about our lovely venue and wedding planning services.

The Bell Tower on 34th

901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018

(713) 868-2355

Graduation Party Etiquette: How to Plan a Memorable Celebration

Graduation is an exciting milestone that deserves to be celebrated. As a parent of a graduate, you may be planning a party to commemorate this special achievement.

While decisions like the optimum venue, the best food for a graduation party, and who should be on the guest list will shape your event, etiquette has an important role to play in the graduate's special day, too.

We've put together some etiquette tips to guide you, along with some overall planning tips.

Set the Date

First things first: Choose a date for your graduation party and secure your event venue. Late May and June, after diplomas are handed out, are typical graduation party months.

Before you make a final decision on a date, check your graduate’s schedule and factor in potential conflicts like final exams, vacations, or siblings’ events.

Your Graduation Party Invitations

Once you’ve chosen a date, order invitations. Your invites should go out four to eight weeks in advance.

On your invitation, specify whether the celebration starts with dinner or if it’s a dessert and drinks format.

We recommend setting an RSVP date that falls two weeks or more before your party.

Invitations can be mailed, emailed, texted, or posted on social media. Have your graduate review the guest list to be sure no friends are overlooked.

Encourage RSVPs

If you send print invitations, consider adding RSVP cards with self-addressed, stamped envelopes for guest responses.

As an alternative to RSVP cards, you can provide an email RSVP address or phone number to text replies to on each invitation, or you can use online RSVP tools, which make it easy for guests to select “Yes” or “No” for the party.

Phone calls work for a very small event, but we would avoid asking for verbal RSVPs from dozens of guests: You’re likely to forget responses.

Use Social Media and Reminders to Get Responses

Social platforms are ideal for sharing party details. You can create a Facebook event page and invite guests to respond. Post party specifics on your grad’s social media accounts, too.

Email and text reminders a week before the RSVP deadline saying something like:

“We look forward to seeing you at Maddie's graduation celebration on June 4 at 7 p.m. at The Park Hotel. Please remember to RSVP by May 28 if you can attend. You can call, text or email me your reply. Thanks!”

Timely nudges like this increase your RSVP rate so you can finalize food, seating, and plans.

Planning Guidelines

Planning a stress-free graduation party requires organization and strategic decision-making. Here's how you can streamline the process and alleviate unnecessary worries:

Set a Realistic Budget

Determine your budget early on and stick to it. This will serve as a guiding principle for all your planning endeavors, helping you prioritize expenses and avoid overspending.

Start Early

Begin planning well in advance to avoid last-minute rush and ensure everything falls into place smoothly.

Create comprehensive checklists outlining all the essentials, from venue bookings to decor items, and begin your preparations at least one to two months ahead.

Ordering early will be important, especially for popular party rentals and services that may get booked quickly.

Involve the Graduate

Don't overlook the importance of the graduate's input in shaping the party's ambiance and theme.

Solicit their preferences for the menu, music playlist, and decor elements, so you can make sure their personality shines through on their special day.

Catering Considerations

While planning the menu, prioritize convenience without compromising on quality.

Consider catering options like buffet-style meals or pre-prepared platters that minimize the need for extensive kitchen work during the party.

Ordering a cake or dessert tray from a bakery not only adds a sweet touch to the celebration but also frees you up from spending valuable party time in the kitchen.

Delegate Responsibilities

Don't hesitate to enlist the help of friends and family members to assist with various tasks on the day of the event.

Whether it's setting up decorations, managing the guestbook, or replenishing food and beverages, delegating responsibilities ensures that no single person bears the brunt of the workload.

Remember, sharing the workload not only eases your burden but also allows everyone to partake in the celebration without undue stress.

Etiquette Dos and Don'ts for Graduation Parties

A graduation party brings together family, friends, mentors, and classmates of varied ages.

Follow traditional etiquette and use common sense to keep things comfortable for all of your guests.

DO:

-Officially introduce the graduate to each guest

-Give older relatives reserved chairs with backs

-Serve non-alcoholic drinks for underage guests

-Play music suitable for the age range attending

-Provide options for guests with food allergies and dietary needs and provide signage to help guests navigate their food options.

DON’T:

-Open gifts in front of guests (do this privately later)

-Assume all guests know each other; facilitate conversations

-Serve alcohol to anyone under legal drinking age

-End the party for some guests earlier than others unless clearly stated

Making Guests Feel Welcome

Ensuring the comfort and inclusivity of your guests is paramount to hosting a successful graduation party. Here are some thoughtful strategies to make everyone feel welcome.

Venue Accessibility

Opt for a venue that is easily accessible, particularly for elderly relatives or guests with mobility challenges.

Avoid locations with stairs or long walks from parking areas to minimize discomfort for older attendees.

Ample Seating

Provide sufficient seating arrangements throughout the party venue to accommodate guests of all ages and preferences.

Include high-top cocktail tables for casual mingling and chairs strategically placed around food stations to offer respite for tired feet.

Designated Zones

Create designated areas within the venue to cater to varying social dynamics. A separate space or lounge area would allow shy teens to gather away from the main crowd while still feeling included in the festivities.

Personal Greetings

Make sure each guest receives a warm welcome by having the graduate personally greet them upon arrival.

This simple gesture helps to alleviate any feelings of awkwardness and sets a friendly tone for the event.

Clear Signage

Guide guests through the party space by strategically placing signage directing them to essential areas including food stations, beverage stations, restrooms, and entertainment zones like photo booths or dance floors.

Diverse Music Selection

Appeal to a broad range of musical tastes by curating a playlist that encompasses multiple genres and eras. This ensures that guests of all ages can enjoy the music and encourages everyone to hit the dance floor.

Volume Control

Strike the right balance between ambiance and conversation by maintaining a moderate volume level for background music.

Avoid excessively loud or disruptive tunes that hinder social interactions, opting instead for a pleasant soundtrack that complements the atmosphere without overwhelming conversation.

Speeches

Graduation party speeches offer a platform for loved ones to express their heartfelt sentiments and extend well-wishes to the graduate, whether through humorous anecdotes, nostalgic reflections, or pearls of wisdom.

Here are some etiquette guidelines to ensure that speeches enhance the celebratory atmosphere:

Less is More

Keep guests engaged by limiting speeches to two or three short shares at most. Schedule speeches during dinner or at a designated time to allow guests the freedom to mingle without feeling constrained by prolonged addresses.

Mindful Preparation

Encourage speakers to prepare speeches of two to five minutes maximum to maintain audience engagement and prevent monotony. Emphasize the importance of injecting humor and sentimental touches into speeches, fostering a warm and inclusive atmosphere.

Audibility Considerations

If you're hosting the party in a large venue, provide a microphone to ensure that elderly relatives and guests seated farther away can hear speeches clearly.

This thoughtful gesture ensures that each guest feels included in the celebration.

Audience Awareness

Tailor speeches to suit the diverse audience present at the party, ensuring that content remains family-friendly and devoid of any inappropriate material. Respect the celebratory nature of the occasion by refraining from delivering lectures or controversial topics.

Special Recognition

Consider inviting the graduate's mentor, such as a coach or teacher, to deliver a speech, as they possess valuable insights into the graduate's character and journey. Their words can add a personal and meaningful touch to the celebration.

Thank-You Note Etiquette

Expressing gratitude is always in style. After the party, the graduate should send thank you notes to those who gave gifts or helped organize the event.

Printed or handwritten notes should go out within two to four weeks of the party. Emails or text messages can work, too, but formal notes make a lasting impression.

The graduate should mention specific gifts they appreciated or kind acts like giving a speech or baking a cake.

Gracious manners for gifts given, time shared, and heartfelt wishes expressed will be remembered long after graduation tassels turn.

Planning and hosting a graduation celebration may feel daunting but needn't be with proper etiquette. Focus on creating a meaningful event for your graduate first, and the rest will naturally fall into place.

The Bell Tower on 34th, an event venue in Houston, TX in Houston, TX, is committed to delivering excellent events that no one will ever forget.

Contact us to learn more about our Instagrammable venue and holding a party here.

The Bell Tower on 34th

901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018

(713) 868-2355

Your Guide to Winter Weddings in Houston

A winter wedding can be absolutely magical. The cozy atmosphere and the gorgeous winter decor make for a stunning and memorable event.

However, nuptials in the winter months do come with their own unique considerations and challenges. This is true even in southeast Texas, where snow is rare, but ice and power outages are distinct possibilities, particularly in January and February.

If you've been considering an enchanting winter wedding, this comprehensive guide can help.

In it, we will walk you through everything you need to know to plan the perfect winter wedding in Houston, from planning tips to winter wedding ideas.

Magic, Beauty, and Enchantment: Upsides of a Winter Wedding

Let's start by looking at some of the benefits of having a winter wedding.

Gorgeous Winter Scenery

A light dusting of snow or frost on the trees makes for gorgeous wedding photos. Even without snow, the stark landscape has a romantic feel.

Cozy Atmosphere

Few things are more romantic than cuddling with your loved one next to a roaring fireplace. A winter wedding evokes that warm, fuzzy feeling.

Lower Costs

Wedding venues, photographers, and vendors are less busy during the winter so you may be able to get some discounts.

Unique Experience

A winter wedding stands out from the crowd of spring and summer weddings.

Holiday Festivities

If your wedding falls around Christmas, you can integrate beautiful holiday décor and experiences.

Escape the Texas Heat

In Houston, a summer, or even a fall or spring wedding, comes with the possibility of extreme heat and humidity.

While it’s impossible to guarantee cooperative weather, you reduce the risk of uncomfortable heat considerably with a winter wedding.

Houston’s Rodeo Season

In southeast Texas, you also have the option of scheduling a wedding around the time the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo takes place.

This gives guests, especially those visiting from out of town, something fun, and unique to our area, to experience.

Granted, the weather isn’t always wintery when the rodeo begins in late February, but odds are good that it will still be cool.

One warning, area hotels fill up during rodeo season, if you opt to hold your wedding around that time, encourage out-of-town guests to make their reservations early. Book your rehearsal-dinner space and after-party early, too.

Cold Realities of a Winter Wedding

As we mentioned, a winter wedding can come with challenges. Here are some potential issues to consider as you determine your wedding date.

Unpredictable Weather

Snow or ice storms can impede travel for you (yes, even in Texas) and your guests (who could be coming from snowier locations).

Shorter Days

The limited daylight hours impact the timing of your event. Outdoor photos, for example, may need to be done earlier in the day.

Potential Discomfort for Guests

Your guests may get cold, especially if the wedding ceremony and reception are outdoors. Proper attire and heating will be essential.

Venue Restrictions

Some venues close or have limited availability for a winter wedding.

Seasonal Produce and Flowers

Your menu and floral options will be limited depending on what's in season.

If you have your heart set on a winter wedding don't let these potential challenges deter you. By planning ahead for the unique aspects of a wedding in the winter months, you can minimize the cons and truly capitalize on all the magical pros.

Your Winter Wedding Timeline

Creating a timeline is an important planning task for any wedding, but it becomes even more important when you intend to exchange vows during the winter.

Here are some tips to keep in mind.

Know Sunset Times

Short winter days mean less time for outdoor photos. Schedule ceremonies before sunset.

Allow Commute Time

Give guests plenty of extra drive time to arrive based on weather and daylight.

Space Events Close Together

Unless you're planning to hold all of your wedding activities at one wedding venue, it would be wise to cluster events like first-look photos, your ceremony, and the reception closer together to limit transit in the cold.

Plan An Exit Strategy

Have a detailed exit plan so guests don't have to wait for transportation in the cold darkness.

Provide Ceremony Programs

Give programs detailing the order of events so guests know what to expect, especially if events may feel rushed.

Have Day-Of Backup

Work closely with your day-of coordinator to adjust for any weather timing issues.

Keeping Guests Warm and Cozy

Your winter wedding will also require some special considerations when it comes to keeping guests comfortable.

Have an Indoor Backup

Even if the ceremony will be outside, make sure your reception space is indoors to accommodate unpredictable weather.

Bring in Heating Devices

Make sure any outdoor spaces have heating options for guests. Fire pits, heat lamps, and warm drinks are great for keeping warm.

Provide Coverings

Have umbrellas, blankets, shawls, or capes available in case of precipitation or cold.

A basket of items by the entrance is useful.

Offer Valet Parking

This is a matter of comfort and safety: Provide valet parking so guests don't have to walk far and can avoid slips.

Communicate with Your Vendors and Venue

Keep vendors and your wedding venue staff informed about local weather and travel conditions in case adjustments need to be made.

Schedule Wedding-Day Transportation

Book limos, buses, or SUVs to safely transport wedding party members during winter weather if needed.

Plan Guest Welcome Bags

Include hand warmers, slippers, lip balm, hot chocolate, and other warming treats to delight guests.

Plan to Offer Post-Ceremony Snacks

Serve warm drinks and snacks immediately after the ceremony since appetizers and dinner may not be for several more hours.

Include a Cocktail Hour

Your guests will appreciate plentiful warm drinks, passed apps, and entertainment during cocktail hour to keep them comfortable.

Theme Possibilities: Winter Wedding Inspiration

If you are getting married in the winter, you might as well incorporate winter elements into your wedding day.

Here are some popular winter wedding theme ideas to spark your creativity:

Winter Wonderland

This classic look features icy blues, silvers, and whites for a magical, snowy ambiance.

As you consider winter wedding decorations, include elements from nature like pine cones, fur throws, and bare birch tree centerpieces.

Go Merry and Bright

For December weddings, go full force into the Christmas aesthetic with deep reds, bright greens, and lots of glittering gold accents.

Tie in holiday details like Christmas trees, poinsettias, candy canes, and mistletoe.

Rustic Charm

A simple rustic style is perfect for a Texas winter wedding.

Think burlap, lace, warm lighting, and rich textures.

Lanterns, woolen blankets, and wooden signage will contribute to your rustic feel, too.

Winter Elegance

Focus on an uplifting, elegant ambiance with metallic accents, candlelight, and posh details like crystal chandeliers, luxe linens, and formal table settings.

Stick to a cool color scheme like ice blue, silver, and champagne.

Go Comfy Cozy

Make it all about warmth and comfort with a relaxed, cozy vibe.

Use plush textures like velvet and flannel, oversized sweaters, comfy lounge furniture, and mood lighting. Serve comfort foods and warm drinks.

Frosty Glamor

Embrace the glitz and glamour of the season with sparkling silver and crystal accents, complemented by shades of frosty blues and shimmering whites.

Incorporate elements like sequined table runners, crystal-adorned centerpieces, and opulent snowflake motifs to elevate the winter wonderland ambiance to a dazzling new level.

Winter Wedding Dress Tips for Brides

Selecting the perfect dress is paramount for every bride, but a winter wedding requires some special considerations:

Fabric

Look for dresses in luxe fabrics like velvet, brocade, or fur that not only provide warmth but elegantly complement the winter ambiance.

Sleeves

Consider a dress with long sleeves, a cape, or a removable jacket to stay warm outdoors during your winter wedding.

Look for sleeves made of sheer fabric for an elegant look that still provides coverage and warmth.

Layers

Another option is to pick a gown with a separate skirt piece that can be removed after the ceremony to show a shorter reception look. Or design the gown layers with a detachable train or overskirt.

Silhouette Considerations

A-line gowns and silhouette gowns with lots of volume and flow are perfect for winter weddings. They can hold layers underneath well. Column or sheath styles may be too clingy for thick underlayers.

Embellishments

Opt for gowns with wintry embellishments like lace, fur, velvet ribbons, beading, or belts. Avoid dresses with delicate, sheer fabrics prone to snagging.

Color

White, of course, but also consider icy blue, winter berry red, marsala wine, or champagne hues that align with your color scheme.

Shoes

Wedding boots, closed-toe heels, or sparkly ankle booties will keep your feet warm and supported while still looking elegant.

Coat or Cape

Have a coordinating coat, cape, or fur wrap to wear over your dress when you step outside. Look for one with removable layers or sleeves.

More Winter Wedding Apparel Tips

Part of your planning will include instructing your wedding party on attire for a winter wedding.

Your guests will appreciate dress code guidance as well.

Here are some recommendations to pass along.

Fabric Choices

Heavy fabrics like velvet, cashmere, and wool or fur shawls are great choices for a winter wedding. Avoid light, chiffon-style fabrics.

Layer It Up

Encourage guests to layer up with long sleeves, tights, leggings, undershirts, and long underwear as needed under their outfit.

Coat Check

Have a manned coat check available so guests can easily remove outerwear.

Close-Toed Shoes

Heels or strappy shoes won't work well in snow (yes, it could happen in Texas). Choose booties, ankle boots, or closed-toe wedges.

For Men: Suits Over Jackets

Suits or tuxedos with long coats keep men looking sharp at a winter wedding. Add scarves, gloves, and hats, too.

Creating a Seasonal Feel: Winter Wedding Decorations

The decor elements are where you can really bring that gorgeous winter style to life. Here are some winter wedding ideas to consider.

Warm Lighting

Use plenty of string lights, lanterns, and candles at your winter wedding. The warm glow offsets seasonal darkness.

Winter Greenery

For botanicals, utilize evergreens like pine, spruce, and juniper along with red winter berries for pops of color.

Metallic shimmer

Accent with gold, silver, mercury glass, and mirrored surfaces to add glamour.

Furry Fabrics

Incorporate velvet, fleece, sheepskin, faux fur, and wool textures in table linens or runner overlays.

Rustic wood

Use bare wood slices, tree stump stands, and signs made from logs or planks to complement the stark landscape.

Winter Patterns

Tartan, plaid, knit textures, and Nordic patterns complement the season.

Natural Found Items

Pine cones, acorns, birch logs, and pine branches make great table decor and centerpieces.

Seasonal Produce

Fresh cranberries, citrus fruits, evergreen branches, and poinsettias make lovely arrangements at a winter wedding.

Holiday Decor

For Christmas time, go all out with trees, garlands, wreaths, poinsettias, candles, and lights.

Your Winter Wedding Menu

Warming foods and drinks are a must for winter wedding menus. Consider these winter catering ideas:

-Hearty appetizers: Comfort foods like mini meatballs, mac-and-cheese bites, bacon-wrapped dates, and grilled cheese get guests warmed up.

-Soups and Stews: A rich soup or stew makes a great first course. Opt for potato leek soup, butternut squash, beef bourguignon, or baked potato soup.

-Warm Entrees: Feature braised, roasted, and baked entrees like short ribs, pork tenderloin, chicken pot pie, lasagna, or shepherd's pie.

-Winter Produce: Root vegetables, squash, roasted Brussels sprouts, and oven-roasted veggies complement the season.

-Creative Sides: Think outside the box with sides like goat cheese polenta, wild rice pilaf, roasted cauliflower, or honey-glazed carrots.

-Comfort Starches: Mashed potatoes, sweet potato gratin, grits, risotto, and macaroni and cheese are crowd-pleasing.

-Chilled Seafood: Raw bars featuring oysters, crab claws, and shrimp cocktails are refreshing lighter options.

-Seasonal Desserts: Incorporate pumpkin pie, pear tarts, gingerbread cookies, and chocolate pots de crème.

-Warm Beverage Bar: Offer hot chocolate, spiced cider, mulled wine, coffee, and specialty tea to keep guests toasty.

Entertainment Ideas for Your Winter Wedding

Keep your guests engaged with fun winter-themed entertainment.

Live Music

A jazz trio, piano player, or acoustic guitarist would set a classy ambiance.

Fire Dancers

Fire dancers or eaters outside (weather permitting) make for unique entertainment.

Champagne Toasts

Keep a tray of filled champagne flutes circulating for quick celebratory toasts throughout the night.

Cozy Lounge Areas

Set up plush furniture vignettes with blankets and candles for guests to relax and mingle.

Cigar Bar

For late-night revelry, a luxurious cigar bar with winter-inspired cocktails is a unique touch.

Hot Cocktail Bar

Serve festive takes on warm toddies, mulled wine, and spiked ciders.

Dessert Bar

A donut wall or baked goods spread gives guests something sweet.

Band or DJ

Get everyone out on the dance floor with upbeat music from a live band or DJ.

Winter Wedding Emergency Plans

While we hope for clear skies, it’s wise to prepare emergency plans just in case. Here are tips to handle potential winter wedding troubles.

First, we recommend talking with your venue about the potential for power outages, which has been known to occur in Texas during extended freezes and ice storms. Ask about generators and how they handle power outages during an event.

It also would be wise to prepare for the possibility of icy roads interfering with your officiant's ability to conduct your wedding ceremony.

Make a plan for a substitute officiant just in case your first choice is unable to make the trip.

It also wouldn't hurt to have basic emergency provisions on hand like food, water, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, and phone chargers.

And, as we tell couples, no matter when their weddings are taking place, be prepared for the possibility of an emergency postponement. We strongly recommend wedding cancellation and postponement insurance, which will protect you from major financial losses if the weather makes going forward with your wedding plans impossible.

Lighting Tips for a Beautiful Winter Wedding

Proper lighting is crucial for illuminating winter weddings and decor::

- Outdoor string lights. Adorn trees, gazebos, garlands, and pathways with plenty of twinkle lights. Go for white or soft warm hues.

- Up-lighting. Up-lights placed around your reception area will wash walls in cozy colors.

- Candles and lanterns. Groupings of various-sized candles and lanterns make any table glow.

- Chandeliers and sconces. Turn on all gorgeous chandeliers and wall sconces for ambient light.

- Table accents. Use tea lights, low floral arrangements, or small lanterns so guests can see each other.

- Illuminate bar areas. Make sure bar spaces have great lighting so guests at your winter wedding can see for mingling and ordering.

- Highlight focal points. Use spotlights or small floodlights to illuminate focal features like the cake table, welcome table, or dance floor.

- Outdoor path lighting. Line paths with lanterns or solar lights to guide guests if outdoors at night.

- Mirrors & metallics. Strategically place mirrors and metallic accents to bounce light elegantly around the space.

Make Your Winter Wedding Unforgettable

You can avoid potential pitfalls with thorough planning. Aim to keep your focus on comfort, ambiance, and seamlessly handling the unique logistics of a winter wedding. Before you know it, you'll be ready to celebrate your new marriage wrapped in the cozy embrace of winter.

The Bell Tower on 34th is a Houston wedding venue near Spring, TX, with valet parking, an executive chef, and full event planning services.

Our built-for-purpose venue has space for indoor and outdoor events.

Learn about holding a wedding here.

The Bell Tower on 34th

901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018

(713) 868-2355

Summer Weddings: Gorgeous, Inspiring Ideas Your Guests Will Love

While wedding day trends come and go, one aspect has been holding steady for years: Summer remains one of the most popular times of the year to get married.

That trend applies to Houston, too, despite the warm weather during our summer months.

A Long-Time Tradition

The popularity of summer weddings, and June weddings, in particular, is a tradition that dates back centuries. According to the Farmer’s Almanac, this was based to some degree on the goddess Juno (the month’s namesake), who was considered the protector of women, especially in marriage and childbirth.

Summer Weddings Today

These days, the appeal of a summer wedding is more practical.

For one thing, the days are longer in the summer, giving couples more time to celebrate and opening the door to more unique ways to get married. The warmer weather we enjoy during the summer also is ideal for summer wedding styles, including popular sleeveless and strapless wedding gowns.

Not only that but, generally, guests find it easier to attend weddings in the summer (especially if they have to travel with children); you have a broader selection of flowers this time of year; you can incorporate bright, summer colors; and more honeymoon options are available to you.

it’s also easy to come up with a nice wedding motif in the summer. (That’s not to say you can’t be creative with seasonal weddings during other times of the year.)

If you’ve been thinking about having a wedding after-party, you have more options during the summer as well.

Summer Wedding Inspiration

If you need some summer wedding inspo, we have a wealth of suggestions and some of the coolest wedding ideas for flowers, food, drinks, wedding favors, wedding cake, themes, and entertainment, along with summer wedding decoration ideas. Put them together, and you'll be on your way to creating the summer wedding of your dreams.

What's the best month for a summer wedding?

Summer weddings could really be called summer-autumn weddings. They are typically held between June and October. If your marriage takes place on the east coast, remember that Atlantic storm season runs from June 1 to Dec. 30, although most hurricanes occur between late August and September.

You also should remember that because summer weddings are popular, lining up a wedding venue as early as possible will be important.

Summer Wedding Invitations

When selecting your summer wedding invitations, aim for designs that capture the essence of the season, whether it's through vibrant florals evoking the blooming warmth of summer or serene beach vistas that resonate with the tranquility of the season.

You can choose designs with flowers, starlit evenings, beach scenes, citrus fruits, or even pink flamingos.

Look for summer colors and textures to convey the idea of a romantic summer-season wedding.

Not only should your selection reflect the fact you’re having a summer wedding, but also whether it will be a formal or more relaxed event.

Summer Wedding Timeline

Planning a summer wedding comes with its own unique timeline. Here are some key deadlines to keep in mind:

12-14 Months Before

-Set your wedding date and book your venue. Popular venues book up fast for summer!

-Hire a wedding planner if you’ll be using one.

-Start researching vendors, and book the key ones.

10-12 Months Before

-Order your wedding dress.

-Plan your honeymoon. Popular destinations book up for summer so reserve flights and hotels.

8-10 Months Before

-Select and order bridesmaid dresses.

-Start planning décor for your ceremony and reception. Summer weddings lend themselves to bright, floral designs.

6-8 Months Before

-Finalize guest list and send save-the-date cards.

-Book hair and makeup artists.

-Arrange accommodations for out-of-town guests.

4-5 Months Before

-Order invitations and mail them out.

-Schedule food and beverage tastings and finalize menus with your caterer.

2-3 Months Before

-Final dress fitting.

-Schedule wedding day hair and makeup trial runs.

-Finalize music playlist and band/DJ for reception.

1 Month Before

-Obtain a marriage license.

-Send final guest count to the caterer.

-Confirm details with all vendors for your wedding day.

Consider a Humidity-Proof Hairstyle

To combat heat and humidity, try pulling your hair away from your face and head. This will help keep you cool and beautiful. A braided hairstyle is one lovely choice (and great for a boho theme).

Summer Makeup

Warmer weather doesn’t always play nicely with a bride’s makeup, but there are steps you can take to give your makeup staying power.

A magnifying primer, when it's applied before your foundation, can help you minimize shine and keep makeup in place longer.

Also, it sounds logical to wear foundation with sunscreen, but makeup artists warn that it isn’t a good idea for brides. The chemicals it contains can have a negative impact on photos.

Makeup artists also suggest applying a bit of bronzer where the sun would hit your face including your cheekbones, chin, nose, and forehead.

Your Summer Wedding Dress

As a general rule, aim for light, breathable fabrics for your wedding gown. Even if you plan to spend your wedding day in an air-conditioned venue, chances are good that you’ll spend some time outdoors.

Fabrics like chiffon, silk, and even finely woven cotton, will help you stay cool.

One option is a dress with an adjustable hem so you can go long and formal during your wedding ceremony and short, chic, and comfortable during your reception.

This Is Your Chance to Dazzle

If you’ve been hoping for a gown with a glamorous element, like an open-back wedding dress, summer is the perfect season for it. Just give yourself time to try on plenty of options so you can find a gown that's comfortable, gorgeous, and a good fit for your body type.

Dresses for Your Bridal Party

Not only will you need a breathable dress for the warm weather of your summer wedding, but so will your bridesmaids.

Consider mixed dresses in light colors or florals made of airy fabrics.

Again, look for summer-friendly fabrics like chiffon or soft crepe gowns.

Attire for the Groom and Groomsmen

Ideal choices include light suites, breathable fabrics, and a boutonniere with a summer flower.

The groom and groomsmen also can support your theme. If you’re having a pastel wedding, for example, have them wear a pastel tie or shirt.

Suit Fabrics

Fabric options include chambray, a cotton fabric that is lightweight, but best for daytime or more casual weddings.

Linen is another excellent option for keeping cool during summer weddings, but you should know that it wrinkles easily.

You also can go with blended materials such as wool with silk, linen, or cotton. These options are attractive but not quite as lightweight as, say, a 100% linen suit.

Selecting a Summer Wedding Theme

You have endless creative ideas available to you if you want to find a wedding theme. In addition to articles with suggestions, you can read about real weddings to see how certain themes played out.

You can watch YouTube videos, review Instagram photos, and talk with friends about what they tried.

Have You Considered a Boho Theme?

Bohemian wedding themes celebrate freedom of expression. They tend to have a hippie, artsy, adventurous vibe.

You can create a bohemian atmosphere at your wedding by bringing a bit of nature into your decor. Earthy wedding ideas include displaying wildflowers or dried flowers and creating backdrops of natural materials like linens, wood, and burlap. Aim for a color palette with natural tones including beige, brown, and burgundy. Set up retro wicker chairs—or invite guests to sit on floor pillows.

On your tables, try macrame or wicker placemats, heavy glass goblets, and ceramic plates.

How About a Beach Theme?

You can't go wrong with the beach for your summer wedding theme, especially if you're interested in an outdoor summer wedding.

This is your opportunity to begin your day in a stunning wedding dress and switch to flip-flops when it's time for your reception--and you won't be sacrificing style.

Aim for a light color palette, neutral accents, and breathable fabrics for you and your wedding party.

Embracing the Beachy Vibe

To create your beachy vibe, feel free to incorporate items you’d find at the beach—sunglasses, sand, starfish, or seashells—into your decor. Just remember, less is more when it comes to these items.

Welcome guests with your beach-themed sign made of driftwood.

You also can arrange wicker chairs and couches topped with white and pastel cushions.

For flowers, we recommend vivid, tropical blooms and greenery, possibly hibiscus, lilies, orchids, palm leaves, and proteas. Or, for more of a Hawaiian beach feel, go with white and pastel flowers like roses, peonies, and hydrangeas arranged with baby's breath.

Create the feel of a beach picnic by offering burgers, grilled meats, veggie kabobs, and ice cream. You can even set up a lemonade stand.

A Pastel Wedding Theme

Another summer wedding idea is a pastel theme.

Pastels may be associated with the spring, but they work for any season, including summer.

Create a romantic world with soft shades of pink, purple, blue, yellows, peach, and more.

You can add pastel touches to your save-the-dates and invitations, signage, food, decor, flowers, bridesmaid dresses, favors—the list goes on.

Create romantic pastel centerpieces, and offer a decadent, pastel signature cocktail possibly a Hibiscus Gin Sour, which is pink, or peach cocktails adorned with edible flowers.

Pastel weddings lend themselves perfectly to creative touches. You can work pastels into sandwiches, the dessert table, even your groomsmen’s suspenders.

Have a July 4th Wedding

You don’t have to get married on Independence Day to use these ideas for Fourth of July weddings. These are fun options for any summer wedding.

Create a red, white, and blue color combo with your reception area chairs, tablecloths, and table runners or napkins.

Choose a red signature cocktail, and top it with blueberries. You also can use berries to add patriotic coloring to your wedding cake, desserts, and other dishes.

Additional July 4th wedding ideas include working red roses into your floral arrangements and serving barbecue, hot dogs, s’mores, and other summery favorites.

Outdoor Wedding Themes

An outdoor wedding offers beautiful possibilities to integrate creative themes that enhance your venue's natural surroundings. Here are some popular outdoor wedding themes perfect for summer:

-Campground Chic: Get playful with a sleepaway camp-inspired theme using gingham, garlands, twinkling lights and lawn games. DIY s'mores favors add sweetness.

Sunflower Field: For bright summer cheer, say "I do" surrounded by sunflowers and decorate with burlap, mason jars, and yellow and green accents.

Fire and Ice: Cool blue and silver with candlelight and fire pits creates an elegant outdoor theme.

Celebrate Summer Movies

Movies always lead to creative wedding ideas, and if you’re having a summer wedding, you could always get a little more specific and focus on summer blockbusters.

Display photos and elements from some of your favorite summer blockbuster movies, from Star Wars to Grease.

Or…you can go with movies that make us think of summertime. Think Some Like It Hot or Dirty Dancing.

Celebrate Your Inner Child With a Carnival Theme

Carnivals are another beloved summer tradition that can inspire creative wedding ideas.

Set up booths with carnival games. Put up colorful displays of string lights. Offer popcorn and candy stations.

You also can create carnival centerpieces for your reception area with pinwheels, old-fashioned lollypops, and stuffed animals.

You can even rent carnival rides like a carousel or Ferris wheel.

Have an Outdoor Ceremony

If you want a wedding theme that ties in with the season, possibly a summer picnic, beach wedding, or rustic wedding, an outdoor setting will be ideal for your summer wedding.

Outdoor wedding ceremonies also will give you more space for guests, will be child-friendly, and, depending on the setting, can dramatically enhance the beauty of your event. That means you won't need to invest in as much wedding decor.

A Few Considerations for Outdoor Summer Weddings

And, depending on your wedding venue, you can always have the ceremony outdoors and then move everyone inside for the cocktail hour and your wedding reception.

Talk with the wedding venue you're considering about outdoor options, and tour their indoor and outdoor areas.

If you're looking at outdoor venues, ask them if they offer tents or shelters in case of inclement weather.

Make Your Rehearsal Dinner a Pool Party

Our best summer wedding ideas aren't limited to themes. There are plenty of ways to incorporate the fun and magic of summertime into your wedding—including wedding-related events.

For example, why not bring your rehearsal dinner poolside?

Aim to have your rehearsal in the afternoon, and begin the rehearsal dinner in the late afternoon so there’s still light for your gathering.

Pool Party Food and Drinks

Serve Texas favorites like barbecue, Tex-Mex, or fresh seafood, along with light finger foods.

Offer mojitos or pool party punch along with non-alcoholic drinks.

We do recommend having kid-friendly foods and activities if children will be attending and making sure a certified lifeguard is on duty.

Keep Your Guests Comfortable

Getting married in the middle of a hot summer day isn't necessarily ideal, especially in Houston. Try to develop your wedding timeline carefully, possibly in the late morning (wedding breakfast, anyone?) or early evening, to shield guests from the hottest party of the day.

 Combine your strategic timing with strategies to keep your guests cool: Offer water, and non-alcoholic drinks frequently to keep people hydrated; provide cushioned seating so people don’t burn their legs or bottom on hot surfaces; and put mini-water misters in each guest’s chair.

Guests will appreciate sunscreen and bug spray, too.

Plan Games

If you are having an outdoor summer wedding, use the space for games.

They’ll help your wedding guests get to know each other and inject more fun into your celebration.

You can rent Twister, giant Jenga sets, lawn croquet, and more.

Keep the Children Safe and Happy

If children are attending your wedding, consider offering juices, Gatorade, water, popsicles, and other drinks that they’re likely to enjoy so they don’t get overheated or dehydrated.

If you’ve planned to offer outdoor games, add a few options that children might enjoy, or set up a kids’ tent with coloring books, Lego sets, hula hoops, and other fun options. You can add bean bags, rugs or cushions where they can sit down.

Create a Romantic Walkway

Create an enchanting pathway for wedding guests to follow to your venue—or maybe from the ceremony to cocktail hour or reception.

You can line your walkway with candles, lanterns, flowers, balloons, shells, stones, signs with sweet messages, hanging lights, strings of lights—anything you can imagine.

Stunning Summer Wedding Flowers

The flower choices are practically endless for a summer wedding. You can opt for classics like roses and carnations, something more dramatic like sunflowers, or even wildflowers.

And, because so many flowers are in season during the summer, you’ll be able to avoid the expense of importing out-of-season options.

In-season summer flowers include carnations, cosmos, chrysanthemums, dahlias, delphiniums, freesias, gardenias, irises, and hydrangeas, among others.

Embrace Summery Color Schemes

You can, of course, choose any color scheme for your wedding, but we encourage you to have fun with your choices. Summer is a season of vibrant colors: fuchsia, yellows, oranges, and light blues. Use them to inject a sense of joy and excitement into your summer wedding décor.

Even if you’re aiming for a more elegant, formal atmosphere, you have lovely color options including pale pink, lilac, and pale yellow.

Try Creative Centerpieces

Flowers are always a gorgeous option for summer wedding decorations, but if you’re not sure how they’ll handle the summer heat—especially if you’re holding an outdoor wedding—consider other creative options like candles, fresh produce, or elements that tie in with your theme.

Cool and Creative Touches

Try incorporating elements that add to the visual appeal of your reception area and can help guests beat the heat.

One option would be topping each place setting with an attractive paper fan.

Cake Alternatives

You absolutely can enjoy a traditional summer wedding cake, but that is one of many options available to you.

Maybe you’ll want to try an ice cream cake to help your guests keep cool or to create a display of cake pops, which are more likely to endure the heat during your outdoor summer wedding.

Cool Cocktail Hour Treats

In addition to your favorite liquid cocktails, add something cool and fun like alcohol-infused popsicles.

In addition to offering drinks, consider offering snacks that will help keep guests comfortable and cool like watermelon slices on a stick or coconut water.

Get Creative With Your Escort Cards

Replace escort cards with flags on cocktail sticks and present them in an arrangement of cold mocktails (so everyone can enjoy them).

Or, take a similar approach, but have the escort flags placed in summer fruits like plums or nectarines.

Acrylic Seating Chart

A popular trend for weddings that’s perfect for summer weddings is the acrylic seating chart.

There’s something about their clear, clean appearance that works with most summer wedding themes, along with couples’ overall summer wedding decor.

Oversized Balloons

Colorful or elegant white, balloons can add an element of fun to your reception space.

Another fun option is to use balloons for your signage or to share whimsical messages with your guests.

Offer Light Menu Options

Avoid heavy options on your wedding menu, and offer guess grilled fish or chicken, fresh fruit and vegetables, and other light dishes at your summer wedding.

This will be especially appreciated if you're planning an outdoor summer wedding.

It’s also wise to offer vegetarian or plant-based menu items for your guests.

Have Fun With Your Wedding Favors

Pack beach bags with creative favors, including sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses, and flip-flops.

Or, give guests items that will help them keep cool in hot temperatures, from hand-held fans to elegant straw hats that will help block the sun.

Another option could be beach towels—especially if you’re having a beach-themed wedding.

Minimal Aisle Decor

One appealing approach to a summer wedding is simple elegance.

That means avoiding a fussy, crowded approach to your wedding decor and allowing certain key elements to shine.

This approach also helps keep the focus on you and your partner, where it should be.

One example is the aisle for your wedding ceremony space. You can achieve a clean elegant look by lining the ceremony aisle with greenery, candles, or baskets of flowers.

Make the Bar a Focal Point

Generally, the bar is one of the most popular spots in a wedding reception area. We recommend adding special decorative touches that tie in with your summer wedding or your wedding theme to add to its visual appeal.

Have a Photo Booth

Photo booths encourage guests to mingle, laugh, and chat, and they add to the overall fun of your event.

You also can provide props, like giant sunglasses and beach balls, to tie in with your summer wedding or your wedding theme and create fun summer wedding pictures.

Summer Table Linens

Unless you want specific wedding decor to tie in with your summer wedding theme, we suggest having fun with your table linens.

You can take a bold approach with floral, patterned, stripes, or polka dots.

Or, maybe you’d like to experiment with textured linens—or table runners—for an element of whimsy.

Summer Wedding Drink Stations

Add to the fun and atmosphere of your wedding with drink stations.

One option is to offer a spot to find non-alcoholic options like iced tea, juice, coffee, lemonade, and soda.

You also can offer themed stations like a margarita station or a mimosa bar. Or, set up a creative display with glasses of wine, a Champagne tower, or an arrangement comprising glasses of your signature cocktail.

Get Creative With Ice Cubes

Add a pop of color and flavor to the summer drinks you offer by including pleasant surprises in the ice cubes.

A few of the many additions you can add include vanilla beans, berries, edible flowers, and herbs.

You also can make cubes with fruit juices or alcohol that would complement your guests’ beverages.

Use Colorful Candles

Candles add to the charm of your reception area. Maybe you’ll want to go with a classic combination of blush and gold candles for a romantic effect.

You also can select colors that complement your floral arrangements or creative centerpieces or go with bold summery colors like pinks, greens, and yellows.

Set the Ambiance With Lights

Lighting is a highly effective way to enhance the atmosphere of your wedding and create a romantic, picture-perfect effect.

Try adding strings of lights to trees for a summer festival effect, or arrange clusters of lights to dangle from tree branches.

Another lighting option for your outdoor summer wedding is to set up chairs and sofas around tables topped with lanterns.

Dance All Night Long to Summer Tunes

If you're looking forward to getting out on the dance floor during your wedding reception, you might want to incorporate some feel-good summer music into your band or DJ’s playlist.

A few of the many possibilities available to you include “Dancing in the Moonlight” by Toploader, “California Girls,” by The Beach Boys, "Señorita" by Justin Timberlake, “The Boys of Summer,” by Don Henley, “Red Red Wine” by UB40, "Mine" by Bazzi, and “Walking On Sunshine” by Katrina & The Waves.

Pick What Speaks to You

We know we've included more summer wedding ideas than you can possibly use, but we hope that some of them are a good fit for what you have in mind. We hope they make your wedding planning easier, inspire you, and help you create the unforgettable wedding you've been dreaming of.

The Bell Tower on 34th, a wedding venue in Houston, TX, is committed to helping recently engaged couples realize their wedding vision.

Learn more about holding a wedding here.

The Bell Tower on 34th

901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018

(713) 868-2355

Your Guide to Vegan and Vegetarian Wedding Food

In a 2019 article for the magazine, Bon Appétit, writer and vegetarian Sarah Jampel lamented the lack of entree variety she was encountering at weddings.

The most common vegan wedding meal option, she wrote, was a pile of roasted vegetables she called a “veggie stack." She even served it on her own wedding day, because it was the only vegetarian choice she and her family could agree upon.

It's not that veggie stacks aren't tasty, Jampel explained, but after eating them at multiple events, Jampel found herself longing for something different—and a bit more filling.

If you’ve been hoping to offer satisfying vegetarian or vegan options at your wedding, don’t worry. Jampel went on to say that accomplishing this is indeed possible. It just takes some research and strategic planning.

We agree: Offering crowd-pleasing veggie wedding food is very doable. And we have a collection of vegan and vegetarian wedding menu ideas that will help you pull it off.

Vegan Vs. Vegetarian: Understanding the Difference

If you are thinking about a plant-based menu for yourselves or a close friend or family member, you already understand the differences between vegans and vegetarians. But, maybe you're considering these options because of the likelihood that some of your guests would prefer them. That is, by the way, a logical conclusion. There are approximately 375 million vegetarians around the world and about 1.5 million vegans.

To accommodate guests, you'll need to know what they mean if they inform you they're vegan or vegetarian.

Vegetarians do not eat meat, fish, shellfish, or poultry. And while it’s easy to see how that means you’ll need an alternative to pork chops or a filet mignon for some guests, you’ll also have to be on the lookout for “hidden” forbidden ingredients.

For vegetarian wedding catering, that means no French onion soup, which is made with beef broth.

No fish sauce-laden Pad Thai.

Even Caesar dressing has anchovies in it, putting it on the no-go list.

Vegans go a step further: They avoid animal products altogether. That means they don’t eat dairy (no butter or cheese), honey, or eggs.

Consult the Experts

We suggest talking with your venue or wedding caterer about the plant-based options they offer and if they can work with you to create a wide variety of options for your guests. Ask what gets rave reviews.

As you review their menus, look for ingredients that could make a dish off-limits for a vegan guest. A side dish topped with cream sauce or mozzarella cheese, for example, might be a great choice for a vegetarian, but the dairy content would not work for people who avoid all animal products.

Once you have options in mind, schedule a tasting to make sure the dishes you're considering are what you have in mind.

Appetizer Ideas

At first glance, it may look like the only safe plant-based appetizers you'll be able to offer during your cocktail hour are trays loaded with fruit or fresh vegetables. And while those options will be appreciated, you don't have to stop there.

Vegetarian foods that work well for hors d’oeuvres include spring rolls (ask about ingredients); spinach mushroom quesadillas; skewers of basil, fresh mozzarella, and cherry tomatoes; mini quiches; and mini pizzas.

For vegans, consider offering vegetables that have been prepared in a creative way. For example, you can offer vegetable tava featuring seasoned, marinated grilled vegetables served on a steel tava (pan), stews with vegetables and legumes in a vegetable broth, whole-roasted cauliflower with Middle Eastern spices, hummus with olive oil and pita bread, or mushrooms stuffed with pesto, mixed vegetables, and possibly, tofu.

Satisfying Soups

Hot soups are tremendously satisfying and ideal for fall and winter weddings.

Serve your vegetarian friends tomato soup with grilled cheese for the ultimate comfort food. Vegans can enjoy butternut squash soup (again, ask about ingredients) with hot bread.

Planning a summer wedding? Offer gazpacho in shot glasses or chilled avocado soup. You can even serve these chilled soups in carved ice bowls to give your guests an even more refreshing experience.

Additional options that work for vegans and vegetarians include bean, wild mushroom, or curry lentil soups. As always, you’ll need to talk to the team preparing your food about ingredients.

Salads That Go a Step Above

People who avoid meat and animal products eat their fair share of salads. That's not to say you shouldn't offer salads at your wedding, but your wedding guests might appreciate it if you take your salad game up a few notches.

Incorporate ingredients that will add flavors, colors, and textures to the salads.

Guests who avoid meat might enjoy an apple and walnut salad with green apples, arugula, goat cheese, cucumber, and asparagus served with smoked tomato walnut dressing.

For vegans, offer a mix of broccoli crowns, red onions, cranberries, and almonds tossed with olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, minced garlic clove, and smoked paprika.

Yummy Sides

Looking for creative sides to include in your vegetarian wedding menu?

For a delightful array of vegetarian sides, consider adding vibrant options like roasted vegetable medleys drizzled with balsamic glaze, quinoa salad with fresh herbs and lemon vinaigrette, or stuffed mushrooms filled with savory herb-infused breadcrumbs and vegan cheese. These dishes offer a burst of flavor and color to complement your main course.

For those seeking vegan alternatives, tantalize taste buds with savory options such as creamy coconut milk mashed potatoes, grilled vegetable skewers marinated in a zesty citrus dressing, or a refreshing kale and avocado salad tossed with tangy tahini dressing. These plant-based sides provide a satisfying and nutritious addition to your wedding feast.

Vegetarian Entrees

One of the main goals, when you are planning a vegetarian wedding menu (or a vegan one), is to offer satisfying entree options.

For those avoiding meats, consider eggplant parmesan with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, Asian vegetables stir-fried with tofu; or marinated grilled vegetables and mushrooms topped with mozzarella and marinara sauce.

Or, you can offer comfort foods like pizza, tacos, and macaroni and cheese.

Another crowd-pleasing option would be to offer decadent breakfast dishes like pancakes, crepes, or waffles.

Vegan Entree Possibilities

Again, even if you're offering roasted vegetables at your event, you can add creative touches to make them more appealing. One example is roasted vegetables with rice pilaf topped with Thai coconut curry.

The most satisfying dishes will contain protein. You can achieve this by offering beans, chickpeas, or peas with grains like rice or quinoa.

Additional options include mushroom lasagna with tofu instead of cheese and dumplings made with sweet potato and vegetables with a savory nut gravy.

Try Indian Entrees

Indian wedding menus offer a wealth of delectable vegetarian meals. For example, paneer (Indian cheese) with bell peppers in a creamy tomato sauce would be satisfying and a chance for your vegetarian guests to get a break from the routine.

You can find choices for vegans, too. Offer Mushroom Manchurian—mushrooms tossed with onion, bell pepper, and garlic—or Tala Dal/Dal Makhana, black lentils or yellow split peas slow-cooked in aromatic herbs and spices.

The Bell Tower on 34th, an elegant wedding and event venue in Houston, TX, is committed to helping couples realize their wedding vision.

Our Instagrammable venue, with an executive chef, is purpose-built for both large and small events.

Learn more about holding a wedding here.

The Bell Tower on 34th

901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018

(713) 868-2355

Minimizing No-Shows at Your Next Event

Hosting free events can be a great way to attract attendees and promote your business.

However, one extremely common problem with these events is the risk of no-shows—people who RSVP but don't attend. If you're an event organizer, you're acutely aware that no-shows can be frustrating and costly.

In this blog post, we'll look at some of the factors that can cause this problem along with strategies for discouraging no-shows at your event.

No-Shows and Free Events

A free event intrinsically attracts more no-shows than paid events. When there is no financial commitment or penalty for not showing up, attendees feel less obligated to honor their reservation. Some common reasons for this pattern include:

Double-booking: Attendees may RSVP for multiple events on the same day and choose one later.

Schedule changes: Other obligations like work or family may come up between the time someone registered and the event day.

Low investment: As we mentioned, with no money paid, attendees feel less committed.

While no-shows can be understandable, particularly in the context of free events where attendees may not feel as invested, they still pose significant challenges for event planners. No-shows not only disrupt event logistics and planning efforts but can also result in wasted resources, such as unused seating, catering, and promotional materials.

Additionally, no-shows can hurt the overall attendee experience, leading to diminished engagement, decreased networking opportunities, and potentially lower satisfaction levels. From a financial perspective, no-shows can represent lost revenue opportunities, as sponsors and vendors may base their support on expected attendance numbers.

And, consistently high rates of no-shows can damage the reputation of both the event and the organizing entity, potentially deterring future attendance and sponsorships.

So, if you're an event planner, what can you do to minimize no-shows at your next event?

Use RSVP Limits

Implementing RSVP limits can be a strategic approach to mitigate the risk of no-shows at your free-to-attend events.

By setting a maximum number of RSVPs and adhering to it diligently, you not only ensure that your guests don't exceed your event venue's capacity but also enhance the perceived value of your event and urgency among attendees.

Here are some tips for effectively using RSVP limits to discourage no-shows.

Understand Your Venue Capacity

Before setting RSVP limits, thoroughly assess the capacity of your event venue. Consider factors like seating arrangements, standing room, and any safety regulations. This ensures that you don't inadvertently overbook the event, which could lead to overcrowding and potential dissatisfaction among your attendees.

Establish a Realistic Limit

In addition to considering your venue, you can base your RSVP limit based on such factors as venue event type and expected attendance. Factor in past event turnouts and any promotional efforts that might impact attendance.

Communicate Clearly

Clearly communicate the RSVP limit to prospective attendees through event invitations, website listings, and social media promotions. It also helps to provide a compelling reason for attendees to RSVP early. Emphasize limited spots or any special perks reserved for early registrants.

We also would clearly state that once your RSVP limit is reached, no further registrations will be accepted.

Monitor RSVPs Closely

Regularly monitor RSVPs as your event date approaches.

Keep track of the number of confirmed attendees and be prepared to close RSVPs promptly once the limit is reached. Utilize event management tools or dedicated RSVP platforms to streamline this process and ensure accurate tracking.

Implement Waitlists

In case RSVPs fill up quickly, consider implementing a waitlist system to capture additional interest.

Notify people on the waitlist promptly if spots become available due to cancellations, allowing them to confirm their attendance within a specified timeframe. This helps maximize attendance while minimizing the risk of no-shows.

Encourage Confirmation and Reminders

Encourage confirmed attendees to reconfirm their attendance closer to the event date. Send out timely reminders via email or text message, highlighting important event details and reiterating the importance of honoring their RSVP commitment. This helps reduce no-shows.

Consider a Refundable Deposit

You also can reduce no-show rates by implementing a refundable deposit system. You would collect a nominal fee, typically ranging from $5 to $10, when people register with the promise of a refund after arrival at the event.

This approach not only helps mitigate the risk of no-shows but also fosters a sense of accountability among attendees.

Here are some points to consider when implementing a refundable deposit system.

Establish Clear Terms

Clearly outline the terms of the refundable deposit system in your event communication and registration process.

Explain that the deposit will be refunded upon attendance at the event and provide details on how attendees can claim their refund.

Highlight the Benefit

Emphasize the benefits of the refundable deposit to prospective attendees.

Explain that the deposit helps ensure accurate attendance projections and enhances the overall event experience for everyone involved. Frame it as a way for attendees to demonstrate their commitment and contribute to the success of the event.

Keep the Deposit Amount Reasonable

Set the deposit amount at a level that is affordable and reasonable for attendees. A small fee, possibly $5 to $10, should be enough to encourage commitment without creating a financial barrier to participation.

Automate Your Refund Process

Utilize event management tools or registration platforms that support automated refund processing.

This streamlines the refund process for both organizers and attendees, ensuring that refunds are issued without unnecessary delay.

Monitor Deposit Refunds

Keep track of deposit refunds and make sure they are processed in a timely manner. Regularly reconcile attendance records with deposit payments to identify any discrepancies or issues that may arise.

Promptly address any refund requests or inquiries from attendees to maintain transparency and trust.

Partner with Influencers

Collaborating with influencers can be a powerful way to promote your events and attract a larger audience.

Here's how to effectively partner with influencers to increase RSVPs.

Identify Relevant Influencers

Research and identify influencers in the event presenter's niche who have a strong following and engagement with your target audience. Look for influencers whose values align with the presenting organization's brand.

Build Relationships

Reach out to influencers and build genuine relationships with them before pitching your event collaboration.

Engage with their content, leave thoughtful comments, and share their social media posts to show your support and appreciation. Building rapport with influencers makes them more likely to consider partnering with you and promoting your event to their followers.

Craft Compelling Offers

Develop compelling offers and incentives for influencers to promote your event.

This could include free tickets, exclusive access, behind-the-scenes experiences, or affiliate commissions for ticket sales generated through their referral links. Tailor your offers to each influencer's interests, audience, and promotional preferences to maximize their impact.

Provide Valuable Content

Equip influencers with valuable content and resources to help them promote your event effectively.

This could include high-quality images, videos, event details, key selling points, and promotional materials that they can share with their followers. Make it as easy as possible for influencers to create engaging and persuasive content that drives RSVPs to your event.

Express Gratitude

Show appreciation to influencers for their support and promotion of your event.

Thank them publicly on social media, share their content with your audience, and consider offering them additional perks or incentives for their efforts. Building positive relationships with influencers can lead to long-term partnerships and ongoing promotion of your events.

While some amount of no-shows may be inevitable when there's no charge for your event, utilizing creative strategies like communication, small refundable deposits, RSVP limits, and partnering with influencers can help significantly reduce your no-show rate.

With better attendance, event organizers can improve the guest experience and get a solid return on investment for event expenditures.

The Bell Tower on 34th is an event venue in Houston, TX, with full event-planning services.

Our elegant venue, with valet parking, offers multiple rooms and onsite security.

Learn more about holding an event here.

The Bell Tower on 34th

901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018

(713) 868-2355

Unforgettable Corporate Event Themes

The Bell Tower on 34th is the perfect venue to host your corporate event.

And, if you hold a themed event here, you have even more options for creating an event that will leave a lasting impression.

Our team is here for you when you need inspiration, whether you need:

-Corporate event ideas for large groups

-Guidance on trending event themes

-Corporate hospitality ideas

-Help navigating corporate event planning

-Catering ideas for corporate events

-Corporate gala dinner theme ideas

-Table centerpiece ideas for corporate events

-Large event ideas

Company dinner theme ideas, or

-Motivational themes for events

We are here to help throughout your event as well, beginning with party-setup service, and we will have a staff member on call to ensure everything goes according to plan.

To help with your planning, we have put together corporate event theme ideas for food, decor, and more.

Quite a few of our event concept ideas would also work as:

-Collaboration themes

-Themes for educational events

-Team-building themes

-Inspirational themes

-Corporate cocktail party themes

-Corporate conference theme ideas

-Corporate family day themes

-Banquet theme ideas

-Fundraising themes

-Fun Friday themes for work

You can also use our business event themes to develop corporate party decoration ideas.

Creative Corporate Event Themes for Any Setting

The Bell Tower on 34th offers businesses a unique setting for corporate events, providing both luxurious sophistication and ample space for any occasion.

The venue's decor provides a perfect backdrop for creative themes tailored to your company’s culture or mission statement. From carnival-style wonderlands to underwater fantasies, The Bell Tower on 34th works with our customers to create events that sparkle.

With The Bell Tower on 34th as your chosen setting, every guest at your next corporate gathering is sure to be impressed and leave with long-lasting memories of your special event. Make The Bell Tower on 34th the backdrop for your next corporate gathering and inspire awe in every guest.

Corporate Event Theme Ideas For All

Have you been wondering how to select an event theme? We have extensive experience helping guests deliver themed events for companies.

Whether you need inspiration for corporate parties, festival themes, formal dinners, decorating ideas for corporate events, celebration themes for work, gala themes ideas for fundraisers, or an annual dinner theme suggestion, you can select from countless possibilities that will ensure your guests have a memorable experience. From entertaining and engaging themes such as A Night at the Oscars or Around the World in 80 Days to traditional themes like the Roaring Twenties or Vintage Carnival, your event theme can be tailored to fit any budget and occasion.

With careful consideration of decorations, food, and entertainment activities, you'll be able to create an unforgettable corporate event atmosphere. You can always work with event professionals, from a planner to an event decorator, if your budget allows it. Be sure to consider all of the details when planning your theming for corporate events so that you can create a truly remarkable atmosphere.

The Great Gatsby

The Great Gatsby is an excellent Hollywood-themed corporate party idea that will bring a touch of glamor and sophistication to your event. Its opulent styling, shimmering metallics, and classic period details will wow your guests.

Here are some suggestions to help you bring your The Great Gatsby theme to life.

- Decorate the venue with art deco props and details. Use geometric shapes, bold colors, and glitzy embellishments to evoke the roaring 20s aesthetic.

- Have guests dress in 1920s attire like flapper dresses, pinstriped suits, and fedora hats. You can put together period-style costumes without directly copying designs from The Great Gatsby.

- Serve Prohibition-era cocktails like mint juleps, gin rickeys, and sidecars. Work with your caterer to craft menus with jazz-age influences.

- Play instrumental jazz music from the 1920s to set the mood. Stay away from unlicensed recordings of specific songs referenced in The Great Gatsby.

- Create photo opportunities with a vintage car, palatial staircase, or other set pieces reminiscent of Jay Gatsby's lavish parties. Avoid exact reproductions of imagery from films or other media.

- Have entertainers like dancers, magicians, or comedians perform acts popular in the 1920s.

- Use your event decor, menus, entertainment, and other details to capture the extravagance and sophistication of 1920s high society without reproducing copyrighted elements.

Gainsight Pulse Everywhere

Gainsight’s Pulse Everywhere, one of the biggest customer success, product, and community conferences in the world, is the perfect corporate event theme to bring your company together and build relationships. With its tech-focused design, everyone will feel inspired while they mingle and network.

Impress your guests with technology-inspired decor, drinks, and snacks that reflect your company's cutting-edge style.

Winter Wonderland

A Winter Wonderland motif is a magical way to bring the spirit of the season into your corporate party.

This winter-inspired theme will create an enchanting atmosphere for your attendees, full of twinkling lights and snowflakes. A combination of white, silver, and blue decorations can be used to create a wintry wonderland that will make your employees feel like they have stepped into a fairytale.

Give each guest a pair of white gloves or use festive centerpieces like mini Christmas trees to add more charm and showcase your company’s style. Even small touches, like a winter-themed welcome sign, can help enhance the atmosphere.

Carnival-Inspired Corporate Event Theme

A carnival motif can provide inspiration for an exciting and vibrant atmosphere, making it a fantastic theme for a corporate event.

Create a carnival vibe with custom-designed floats, bright LED lighting, or gold and silver decor.

Invite attendees to enjoy traditional games like ring toss and face painting. You can even include a circus tent.

You can also use food and beverages to bring your theme to life. Serve classic carnival fare like hot dogs, hamburgers, and French fries. Offer sweet treats like funnel cakes, cotton candy, and snow cones in bright colors. Provide soft drinks and lemonade in collectible souvenir cups to complement the fun, casual vibe.

Classic Summertime BBQ

The Classic Summertime BBQ event theme is an ideal choice for any outdoor venue.

Create a backyard BBQ look with lanterns, and sunflowers as table centerpieces. Use red gingham tablecloths and have potted plants or vines as accents. To further set the mood, hang lights and string lighting.

For food, offer classic fare like burgers, hot dogs, baked beans, coleslaw, potato salad, and cornbread. Consider adding grilled veggie skewers, watermelon slices, or fruit kabobs for lighter options. Make sweet tea, lemonade, and bottled beer and wine available for drinks.

If you’d like to offer activities, you can set up lawn games like cornhole, ladder ball, or a giant Jenga set for friendly competition.

Hire acoustic musicians or DJs to play upbeat country, folk, or Americana tunes

With the right details, you can create a fun, laid-back barbecue atmosphere.

A Corporate ‘Camping’ Retreat

A corporate camping retreat is one of those perfect themes for teams and building greater trust and rapport.

Transform your event space into an outdoor retreat with nature-inspired decor. Use potted trees, wood elements, camping lanterns, and outdoor rugs to create a rustic lodge environment.

For catering, serve campfire classics like s'mores, tin foil dinners, grilled hotdogs and hamburgers. Offer outdoor-inspired activities like scavenger hunts, hiking, kayaking or canoeing.

You can also incorporate team-building exercises like setting up tents and building campfires to get attendees working together. Have acoustic singalongs or storytelling around an artificial campfire for evening entertainment.

Provide "glamping" elements like comfy lounging areas to help your guests enjoy the fun of camping without roughing it. With the right balance of nature and comfort, your corporate camping retreat will be a unique outdoor-inspired event.

Hollywood Movies, Glitz, and Glamor

This is a fun and unique corporate event theme that will make your guests feel like stars.

Set the dress code to dressy or dress up as your favorite movie star! Provide fun money (pretend money) for guests to use at “VIP tables” with foods inspired by famous movies.

Have a dance party complete with a red carpet, flashing lights, and signature drinks.

For decor, cover the walls with movie posters of classic films, and deck out the tables with sparkly sequins for that extra glitz and glamor. Serve popcorn and other snacks in old-time popcorn buckets as well as finger foods such as mini pizzas, tacos, and mini burgers. Create a signature drinks list with fun names like “The Shining Star” or “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.”

Set up a photo booth with props like boas, hats, and sunglasses to take pictures of your guests in their red carpet best. Award prizes for the most glamorous dresser or best-dressed group. Don’t forget to provide some fun music for dancing the night away.

Enchanted Forest

To create the feel of an enchanted forest, a magical, whimsical event, you can go all out and create giant banner posters, complete with vines and flowers, as well as other decorations that bring the forest indoors.

For refreshments, you can offer themed cocktails like green-tinted martinis. If you prefer to offer mocktails, offer "unicorn water" (blue lemonade), or root beer floats made with vanilla ice cream.

Pair the Enchanted Forest theme with delicious menu items like mini pizzas topped with mushrooms, truffles, and other wild-foraged ingredients as well as honey-glazed pork chops served alongside a side of seasonal fruits and vegetables. If you’d like something sweet, offer themed desserts like chocolate bug bites or caterpillar cupcakes. Make your party extra special by adding some fairy dust and woodland creature accents throughout the decor.

You can also create themed take-home bags filled with treats and goodies like chocolate eggs and tiny toys. This is a great way to thank your guests for coming and make them feel as if they had just stepped out of an enchanted forest.

Superlative Awards

This is another ideal theme for a corporate event.

Set up a beverage station with a sign that says something like "Outstanding Employee" or "Most Valuable Player.” Decorate with giant posters and add extra style with a balloon artist who can create custom balloon decorations inspired by your corporate culture.

Add fun touches like props, pictures, and games that remind guests of their favorite memories at work.

Don't forget about delicious snacks like popcorn and candy. Make sure everyone has something tasty to munch on as they chat about their awards-night experiences. With these ideas, you'll have an outstanding themed event.

When it comes to food, there are plenty of options that can fit into any budget. Serve up some delicious bite-sized foods such as mini-burgers or tacos.

For decor, try balloons and backdrops tailored to your awards night theme.

Of course, don't forget drinks: You could even include a cocktail hour or create signature cocktails for eventgoers.

Office Olympics

These parties are an ideal way to lighten up any corporate event.

Include games for your guests like a user-friendly obstacle course. You can set up challenges, too, like navigating through traffic cones, balancing a tray of donuts, or racing around desks while spinning in office chairs. Serve pizza and other snacks and decorate with vibrant colors.

To complete the party atmosphere, have upbeat music playing in the background as well as plenty of photo opportunities for employees to capture memories.

It'll be a night of laughter, camaraderie, and friendly competition.

Casino Night

A casino night is a highly effective way to bring people together for some fun and friendly competition. Plus, it's an easy theme. The key to success is all about providing the right food and setting the right atmosphere.

Serve pizza, chips, pretzels, popcorn, and snacks that evoke a classic casino experience. Give out prizes, both big and small, to serve as rewards throughout the night.

Adding music creates a festive happy hour ambiance while encouraging guests to stay on their toes during gameplay. Reinforce the feel of a happy hour with your decor, including gaming tables, card-shaped balloons, and centerpieces featuring playing cards or dice.

When it comes time to break out the games, poker is always popular, but there are plenty of other options including blackjack, roulette, or even craps.

Murder Mystery Party

Step into the world of intrigue and suspense with a Murder Mystery Party that promises an unforgettable corporate event experience. Set the stage for an evening of mystery and excitement as you and your colleagues become amateur detectives in solving a thrilling whodunnit.

When it comes to catering, keep it casual and convenient with a menu of crowd-pleasing favorites. Alongside classic pizzas, consider offering a variety of finger foods and hors d'oeuvres, such as sliders, mini quiches, and cheese platters. For an added touch of suspense, label the food with playful names inspired by the murder mystery theme.

Transform your event space into a scene straight out of a detective novel with atmospheric decor that sets the mood. Enhance the ambiance with dim lighting and strategically placed cobwebs to create an air of mystery and intrigue. Incorporate thematic elements such as vintage magnifying glasses, old-fashioned typewriters, and crime scene tape to immerse your guests in the mystery.

Encourage participation and engagement among attendees by assigning them unique characters to embody throughout the evening. Provide each guest with a character profile, including background information, motives, and secrets to uncover. As the plot unfolds, watch as your colleagues become fully immersed in their roles, collaborating and competing to unravel the mystery.

To enhance the interactive experience, consider incorporating clues, puzzles, and red herrings throughout the event. Set up interactive stations where guests can examine evidence, interview suspects, and piece together the clues to solve the crime. Reward successful sleuthing with prizes or accolades for those who crack the case or showcase exceptional detective skills.

Capture the excitement and camaraderie of the evening with photo opportunities and group snapshots that commemorate the memorable moments shared during the Murder Mystery Party. Encourage guests to dress in character or don thematic costumes to add an extra layer of fun and authenticity to the event.

Dance Through the Decades

This is another option that goes well with any corporate event.

Serve up delicious dishes from the different decades, like fondue to celebrate the 1970s and mini cupcakes for the 2000s.

Set the mood with decor that celebrates each era—hang up vintage posters or create a music playlist to perfectly suit every decade.

To make it extra special, challenge your guests to dress up in their favorite decade-inspired costumes and hold a costume contest. Finally, don't forget to serve Champagne - after all, celebrating is what this event is all about.

Intergalactic Party

This theme can take your corporate event to the next level.

From sci-fi-inspired decor to out-of-this-world food ideas, you can really make an impression with this cosmic company gathering.

Start by hanging up streamers in star shapes and adding galactic accents like planets and rockets around the room.

Create a menu of alien-inspired snacks like space tacos or Martian macaroons for everyone to enjoy.

You could even set up a photo op where guests can take pictures of themselves dressed as astronauts.

Invite everyone to come in their best galactic clothing for an extra festive atmosphere.

Be sure to play some groovy space music or classic extraterrestrial films like ET or Star Wars to complete the theme.

A Gatorade Speakeasy

This party is the perfect way to get your guests excited for a night of fun. Decorate with fresh fruit and create your own secret password for entrance.

Offer your guests 1920s-era finger foods like deviled eggs, canapés, stuffed mushrooms, Oysters Rockefeller, and shrimp patties.

For beverages, serve Gatorade—along with a few homemade cocktails or beer—and you’re ready to go!

Make sure to keep the dress code casual yet cool - think flapper dresses and fedoras - so that everyone can join in on the speakeasy theme.

Get creative with some live music, games, or even an old-fashioned fashion show to get everyone into the spirit of the evening. With these ideas and more, you’ll have all of your guests talking for days.

Karaoke Night

This is the perfect way to liven up any corporate event. Not only is it a fun and current way to get everyone involved, but there are plenty of food, decor, and music options to make your Karaoke Night memorable.

As far as food options go, you can't go wrong with traditional karaoke snacks like popcorn and pizza. You can also create a snack bar or buffet featuring items like chips, pretzels, candy bars, cupcakes, and other classic party treats.

For drinks, beer and wine will always be crowd-pleasers.

Decorations should reflect the theme of the night. Think streamers in different colors or neon lights for an extra touch of sophistication.

Finally, don’t forget about the music. Hire a karaoke DJ or rent a karaoke machine for the evening and let your guests take turns performing current hits or classics.

With a bit of planning, you can take your themed corporate event from "meh" to marvelous. If you want to go all out, enlist the services of a corporate entertainment provider in Houston.

The Bell Tower on 34th is a purpose-built wedding and event venue with full event-planning services, onsite security, and an executive chef.

Our Houston venue in the Garden Oaks neighborhood is close to downtown and the Galleria area.

Learn more about holding a corporate event here.

The Bell Tower on 34th

901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018

(713) 868-2355

How to Release Your Maid of Honor from Wedding Duties

Weddings represent love, festivities, happiness, and making memories with family and friends. 

So, it goes without saying that being forced to “fire” an attendant doesn’t exactly fit the fantasy, especially if we’re talking about your maid of honor. This was the person who was supposed to be your go-to person (aside from your partner) from the time you begin making wedding plans through the moment you made your grand exit from your wedding venue.

However, sometimes pulling your maid of honor or bridesmaid from your wedding party lineup is exactly what needs to happen to pull off the wedding of your dreams and to preserve the relationship.

Now, you may be wondering what exactly could prompt such a drastic move. Well, there could be any number of reasons why taking someone out of the bridesmaid lineup is the right decision, but there are a few surefire red flags to signal someone should not hold a place of honor at your wedding, such as:

She is causing problems between you and your spouse-to-be, other wedding party members, or close family members.

She is not holding up her end of the responsibilities such as showing up for dress fittings, party attendance, planning your bridal shower, or pitching in financially when others are;

She is acting in any way which is detrimental to your wedding planning or well-being rather than being a source of help and support.

She is being rude to you or dismissing your ideas and opinions.

She is not responding to your attempts to communicate with her.

She is making everything about her.

You’re starting to have concerns that she’ll act out at the wedding.

Dos and Don’ts To Consider

Of course, any reason you deem warrants a demotion from bridesmaid to wedding guest is your prerogative, but let us give you some dos and don’ts when it comes to breaking the news and handling the aftermath.

Don't rush the conversation. Take the time to carefully consider your words and approach the discussion with empathy and understanding, recognizing that this may be a difficult moment for both parties involved.

Do be honest, upfront, and clear about your reasons for making this decision. Most ways you cut it, this won’t be an easy conversation, so, if at all possible, schedule a face-to-face sit-down with your friend and talk to her about your decision and why you’re making it. Give her a chance to explain her side.

Don’t break the news over email or text. Your friend deserves to hear it from you in person.

Do stand your ground. You may be tempted to back down, especially if the bridesmaid or maid of honor becomes emotional. Be kind and respectful, but also firm. Remember, you didn’t come to this decision lightly.

Do express gratitude for her past support and friendship, emphasizing that your decision is based on what you believe is best for both of you in the context of the wedding planning process.

Do extend an invitation to the wedding and any related events regardless of the situation.

Don’t make a scene or guilt-trip her if she decides not to attend.

Do alert your groom, parents, and other bridesmaids about your decision. Keep private details to a minimum.

Don’t gossip about her after cutting her from the wedding party. This only creates a toxic environment for other bridal party members and may cause problems, especially if she is a friend of one or some of them.

Do reimburse her for the bridesmaid dress.

Don’t reimburse her for the bachelorette party or other soiree expenses.

Do ask one of your other bridesmaids to step into the role if you have to replace your maid of honor.

Don’t waffle once your decision is made. Going back on it and reversing course will only cause confusion and stress for those still involved and for you and her as well.

Don't dwell on the decision indefinitely. Once you've communicated your decision and allowed for discussion, focus on moving forward positively and maintaining the friendship, even if the dynamic has shifted slightly in the context of the wedding preparations.

Do take some time for self-care. After what was likely a stressful situation, you deserve it.

Keeping Your Friendship Intact

You may be wondering if your relationship can weather such a public storm. The truth is it absolutely can, but, as with most sticky situations, it depends on how you handle it. When you sit down to talk to your friend about your decision, taking an honest and forthright approach is best. Don’t sugarcoat the situation but don’t be unnecessarily harsh either. Maybe offer your friend an easy way out or allow her to save face by telling others that she had to bow out for her own reasons. If the friendship is important to you, express that clearly and say that just because the bridesmaid or maid of honor duties didn’t work out doesn't mean that bodes badly for your friendship.

Of course, maybe her behavior in the lead-up to your wedding was a wake-up call for you in terms of your desire to continue the relationship. If that’s the case, honestly is, once again, your best weapon. Be direct, forthright, and firm in ending the relationship and wishing her well.

Whatever you decide, make sure the decision lies peacefully on your heart as you walk down that aisle and into the next chapter of your life.

The Bell Tower on 34th, an Instagrammable wedding and event venue in Houston, TX, is committed to helping couples realize their wedding vision.

Learn more about holding a wedding here.

The Bell Tower on 34th

901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018

(713) 868-2355

Your Guide to an Amazing Wedding After-Party

When you picture your future wedding day, what's the first thing that comes to mind?

Do you envision a beautiful, moving ceremony? The iconic first dance and cake cutting that takes place during the wedding reception?

Or…does your idea of the perfect wedding include partying the night away with your partner, wedding party, and friends?

If the third option is what you envision, a wedding-after party may be a perfect fit for you.

What Is An After-Party?

Wedding after-parties are a huge trend these days.

This party after the marriage celebration party, also known as a post-wedding party, is a celebration that begins after your wedding reception ends.

Your approach to the wedding after-party is all about personal preference. Your post-wedding celebration be as simple as casually inviting your wedding guests to join you for more fun at a pub or friend's house after your wedding.

Or, you can plan a show-stopping bash with amazing food, beverages, decor, and dazzling entertainment. You can even change into an after-party wedding dress!

If the idea of keeping the celebration going after your reception appeals to you, we have some tips to help you create the ultimate wedding after-party.

How to Plan Your Wedding After-Party

Once you decide you do want to hold an after-party, you'll have some decisions to make. Here are a few guidelines and questions to ask yourself to help get your planning started.

Should You Book Somewhere For Your After-Party?

First, you’ll need to select your after-party venue. Depending on your wedding venue’s policies and hours, you may be able to keep the party going at the same venue where you hold your reception.

You can change the music, the lighting—even your clothes—at your wedding venue to signal that you’re phasing into wedding after-party mode.

Keep in mind, your reception venue may have to comply with community noise restrictions. Be sure to ask if you'll be able to continue playing loud music. Also, some wedding venues have liquor-licensing-related time restrictions.

You also have the option of moving your after-wedding party somewhere else: You can have a house party or line up hotel rooms, a hotel bar, a karaoke bar, a nightclub, or any other option that can accommodate you and your guests during the time window you need.

Whether you are staying at your wedding venue or moving, we recommend booking your spot early in your wedding planning process.

Figure Out the Timing

You’ll also need to figure out when you want your after-party to start, and how long you want it to last.

In many cases, couples base the timing on their band—assuming they want their band to play during their wedding after-party. They book the band for four hours, which may include two hours during the wedding reception and two hours during your after-party.

(Of course, you can always line up a DJ to save money. Either way, if you’re lining up music entertainment, let them know if you have any special requests.)

Back to the length of your after-party: The typical length is two hours, but that's not a rule.

If you're holding a destination wedding, for example, you may want the celebration to continue throughout the night.

Keep Your Guests in the Loop

Be sure to let your bridal party and your guests know if you’re planning a post-wedding bash and provide details about the time and location.

That said, some couples opt to make their after-party a surprise. If that’s the case you can always share your after-party information on your wedding day, possibly during your reception.

Make a Food and Drink Plan

If the party is going to continue after the reception, you should plan to offer guests something to eat. This also is a great way to offset alcohol.

You can go with late-night favorites like pizza, sandwiches, sliders, and chicken fingers or something more budget-friendly like chips and dip.

As for serving more alcohol, that will be up to you. If you don’t intend to cover your guests’ after-party drinks, let them know in advance.

Wedding After-Party Decorations

Having decor specifically for your after-party is another personal preference. Some people like to change the look of their reception venue to create a party atmosphere.

If that idea appeals to you for your after-party, you can always choose new decor that ties in with your wedding theme—or items that are completely different.

Consider Taking Photos

A wedding after-party is a great place to capture the fun, affection, and sheer joy of your wedding celebration.

If you’d like your wedding photographer or videographer to be there, ask them about additional costs.

If that isn’t practical, other options include renting a photo booth or giving guests disposable cameras to capture what they observe during the party.

After-Party Attire and Comfortable Dresses

Are you wondering about the best wedding after-party dresses? For the bride, the after-party dress is another option that’s up to you. You absolutely can continue the party in your wedding dress, or you and your guests can change into party dresses.

Here are some cute and comfy dress options for celebrating all night long:

-Slip dress - These silky, bias-cut dresses are just as chic as lingerie. Look for one with a flirty hem and fun details like lace trim or a low back. Add strappy heels and statement jewelry.

-Jersey wrap dress - A wrap dress in soft jersey material works for all body types. Tie it at the waist or open over leggings. Dress it up with wedges or down with flats.

-T-shirt dress - A T-shirt-style mini dress is perfect for showing off your fun side. Opt for one with a bright graphic print or embellished with sequins. Complete the look with comfy sneakers.

-Sweater dress - For a cozy vibe, try an oversized sweater dress in a fun color or print. Pair with boots and add a cropped jacket.

-Metallic mini - Make a statement in a shimmery metallic mini dress. Try rose gold, silver or iridescent fabrics with delicate camisole-style straps.

After-Party Etiquette: Frequently Asked Questions

While there isn't an extensive list of etiquette rules for post-wedding parties, there are a few key things you to consider to make sure your guests feel valued.

Here are a few of the more common wedding after-party etiquette questions we hear along with our answers.

Who Should We Invite to Our After-Party?

Invite everyone on your wedding reception guest list to your after-party. Granted, some people, especially those with children, may choose not to attend. But don't assume someone won't want to—or won't be able to—be part of your after-party and leave them out.

How Should We Handle the Guest List and Invitations?

You don’t have to send a formal invitation, but you should provide details on the time and location. One way to do that is to include a note on your wedding website. You also can send emails or texts.

Who Hosts the Wedding After-Party?

Whoever is hosting your wedding will be the after-party host. Generally, that person will pay for the after-party, too, but that's not written in stone. If a family member or your parents are helping with your wedding costs and don't necessarily want to pay for a post-wedding party, you and your partner can cover the costs.

Should We Provide Transportation for Guests to the After-Party?

While providing transportation is not a requirement, it's a thoughtful gesture, especially if the after-party venue is located at a different location than the reception venue.

Consider arranging shuttle services or rideshare options to ensure the safety and convenience of your guests. If transportation logistics are not feasible, you can include information about local transportation options or rideshare services on your wedding website or provide recommendations for reputable taxi companies in the area. Ultimately, the goal is to make attending the after-party as seamless and enjoyable as possible for your guests.

A Word About Corporate After-Parties

Many couples choose to host a private after-party following their wedding reception for close friends and family. However, if your wedding costs are being covered in part by your employer or a corporate sponsor, extra consideration should be made regarding after-parties.

Some companies have policies against contributing funds towards after-parties or private events where all guests are not invited. Discuss any plans for a wedding after-party with your corporate sponsor early and review their policies. You do not want to jeopardize their contribution.

Consider hosting your after-party at a different venue from your main reception. And be prepared to fully fund the after-party separately from the main wedding without corporate assistance. If budget is tight, you may choose to forgo the after-party idea altogether.

With proper communication and planning, corporate wedding sponsors and private after-parties can co-exist. Just be sure to follow any policies set forth in discussions with your corporate partner.Wedding After-

Party Ideas

Here are a few wedding after-party tips to help you make your bash memorable.

Plan Activities

While most people associate wedding after-parties with drinking, hitting the dance floor, snacking, and socializing well into the early hours of the next morning, some guests may appreciate something different to do.

Potential activities could include bringing in a pop-up karaoke booth or bringing in casino games.

Make It a Late-Night Movie Screening

If you need a less rowdy party possibility, arrange to watch a movie with your guests. This is an especially fitting choice if you had a movie theme at your wedding reception.

Create a Silent Disco

This is another fun way to keep the party going if sound ordinances are a consideration. You and your guests wear headsets with different channels and select the type of music you want to dance to. Ask your wedding venue about this approach.

Provide glow sticks, party beads, and other favors to help enhance your disco theme.

Line Up Unique Entertainment

In addition to music, you can always line up something special for your after-party entertainment.

Depending on the vibe you’re going for, you can hire a stand-up comedian, a magician, a dance act—even a fire eater.

Have a House Party

If your wedding after-party is going to be small, you always can move the celebration to a house.

Provide your alcohol, and plenty of food, and keep the evening casual. We do recommend talking with your neighbors in advance and trying not to overdo the loud music

Have You Considered a Post-Wedding Brunch?

A late-night party is not for everyone. Maybe you want a prolonged celebration so you can spend more time with your closest family members afterward. In this case, you always come to the party rested. Or maybe you want an event where children will be welcome.

In any case, a post-wedding brunch could be the perfect alternative to a light-night wedding after-party.

Generally, this event, also known as a farewell brunch, has a laid-back, relaxed vibe that will be reflected in the decor (if you have one), dress code, and food choices.

Or…Hold a Day-After Wedding Party

A brunch fits into this category, but additional party ideas include a pizza party, a pool party, a barbecue, a spa day, a picnic with outdoor games, or an outing in the community.

In Houston, you can invite guests to join you at a wide variety of attractions and activities to enjoy together, from museums and great shopping to a live sporting event to touring Johnson Space Center.

Have the Party You Want

Remember, if you decide to hold a wedding after-party, the size, location, and approach are entirely up to you.

Yes, you should take steps to keep your guests safe and comfortable--and make them feel welcome.

Other than that, focus on having the kind of celebration you want to top off your amazing wedding.

The Bell Tower on 34th, an elegant wedding and event venue in Houston, TX, is committed to helping couples realize their wedding vision.

Learn more about holding a wedding here.

The Bell Tower on 34th

901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018

(713) 868-2355

Exploring the Tradition of Wedding Rings

When you and your spouse-to-be stand at the altar at your wedding venue, surrounded by friends and family members and exchange rings, you’ll be following in the footsteps of couples dating back thousands and thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians exchanged rings, and some argue that even cave-dwelling people had a version of them.

The wedding ring, like the wedding dress, wedding cake, and bouquet, is one of our most time-honored wedding traditions.

What is a wedding band and what does the wedding ring symbolize?

While the look of wedding bands has evolved considerably over the years, wedding ring symbolism, for the most part, has been steadfast. Wedding rings represent ongoing love, devotion, and commitment.

As a recent blog by UK-based jeweler, Diamonds Factory, says, “Wedding rings symbolise eternal love and commitment within a relationship. This emblem of love is exchanged between two people on their wedding day and worn to show the world they are married.”

Here’s a look at the origin of marriage rings and how your wedding band might have looked had you lived in another era.

Historical Rings: Ancient Times…And Earlier 

People have been wearing and exchanging rings for as long as…there have been people. The first rings, some historians say, were twigs and reeds that Neanderthals wrapped around their fingers.

One of the earliest civilizations to assign symbolism to rings was Egypt. No, we’re not necessarily talking about Egyptian wedding rings, but Pharaohs did wear eternity rings. The circular shape of a ring was (and is) a perfect symbol for eternity: It has no beginning or end. Another plus in the eyes of the Egyptians: Eternity rings were the same shape as the sun and moon, celestial bodies worshipped in their culture.

If you were a pharaoh, your ring might have resembled a snake swallowing its tail.

But everyday people wore rings, too. According to a blog by With These Rings, Egyptians exchanged "rings of love.” These early bands were made from woven reeds, leather, bone, or ivory.

By the way, the idea of a ring finger has ties to Egypt as well. Egyptians believed the fourth finger on the left hand contained a “vein of love” that led to the heart.

Ancient Greece and Rome

We can thank Alexander the Great for the spread of ring-exchanging into Europe. After he conquered Egypt, Greeks took an interest in the rings Egyptians wore, and over time, Greek lovers began exchanging rings as a symbol of devotion. Some of the Greek rings showed off an image of Eros, or Cupid, the god of love.

After another conquest, in this case, Rome over Greece, rings got another significant boost in popularity—and began to be associated specifically with marriage. Romans began crafting rings of iron and copper and incorporating them into the wedding ceremony. Gradually, the metal of choice for wedding bands became yellow gold.

If you were a Roman bride in the third or fourth century CE, you may have worn a fede, which displayed two right hands holding each other to symbolize friendship and marriage.

Asian Civilizations

You could say Romans approached rings with a sense of romance, but that wasn’t the case for all cultures. Early Asian civilizations, for example, saw rings as a visible legal contract between a man and a woman.

“Remarkably, couples would seal their marriage with puzzle wedding rings, which would immediately fall apart if they tried to remove them from their fingers,” Sophie Pettit wrote for Expatica, a guide for English-speaking expatriates and internationals. “The wedding ring was therefore used as a way to expose infidelity. After all, if one of the partners removed it in the absence of the other, they would soon find out about it.”

Medieval and Renaissance Europe

Rings were a key element of wedding ceremonies in Medieval Europe, according to jeweler Brilliant Earth.

“In the 1100s the Pope dictated that marriages celebrated in Catholic churches should include a ring in the ceremony, and the Greek Orthodox church began ring-based wedding ceremonies in the 1300s,” a Brilliant Earth blog says.

Also during this era, people had their wedding rings set with precious gems. Europeans chose rubies to represent passion, while sapphires represented the heavens, and cut diamonds were symbols of strength.

In the 15th century, posy, or posie, rings displaying a short verse of poetry came into fashion. Later, the ring inscriptions became more personal.

“This forced goldsmiths to advance their techniques and learn to engrave on the inside of the rings to keep these messages private and close to the wearer,” With These Rings wrote. “This shows a shift, from marriage often being an agreement between families, when an ornate ring signified a more profitable arrangement, to marriages founded in love, with simple rings formed from gold coins, bearing inscriptions like ‘Love me and leave me not’ and ‘Two bodies, one heart.’”

The Roman fede retained its popularity in Medieval Europe, too, according to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), and in the 1600s, their motif began to be incorporated into gimmel rings with two or three interlocking bands.

“Lovers each wore a band during the engagement period,” a GIA article explains. “During the wedding ceremony, the groom placed his band on the bride’s finger, uniting the wedding bands into a matched set. The complete ring showed two right hands clasped together.”

Also in the 1600s, the fede image of clasping hands evolved a bit to show two hands holding a heart.

Across the sea, American colonialists continued the tradition of exchanging wedding tokens to symbolize their love, sometimes with a twist. Puritan husbands, for example, often gave their brides a thimble 

Jewish Ceremonial Marriage Rings

Wedding rings have played an important role in the Jewish wedding ceremony over the centuries as well.

Jewish ceremonial marriage rings, which were used roughly from the 10th century through the 19th century, were quite elaborate, and some even displayed a tiny roof representing the couple’s home or temple. These rings opened like a locket and often displayed a Hebrew inscription. These rings were often shared by towns for all Jewish weddings held there.

Today, traditional Jewish wedding rings are often a simple metal circle—typically gold—with no gemstones or embellishments.

SEVENTEENTH AND EIGHTEENTH-CENTURY AMERICA

Wedding rings continued to hold significance in the colonial era of America, albeit with unique twists reflecting the cultural contexts of the time.

Colonialists exchanged wedding tokens as symbols of their love and commitment, often with quaint variations. For instance, Puritan husbands were known to gift their brides with thimbles instead of traditional rings. Despite the simplicity of these tokens, they held deep sentimental value within the context of marriage.

As the colonies evolved, so did the tradition of exchanging wedding rings. Goldsmiths crafted bands of varying designs, sometimes incorporating motifs emblematic of the era's values and aspirations. During the 17th and 18th centuries, the motifs on wedding rings became more diverse, reflecting the changing social landscape of colonial America. While some rings featured intricate engravings or gemstone embellishments, others bore simple yet elegant designs, serving as enduring symbols of love and commitment in the New World.

In addition to their symbolic significance, wedding rings in colonial America also served practical purposes. They were often considered tangible representations of marital vows and legal contracts, reinforcing the bonds of matrimony within the community. Even so, the exchange of rings during wedding ceremonies became a cherished tradition, symbolizing unity, fidelity, and the promise of a shared future.

A New Tradition in Some Regions

In some areas of the world, the tradition of exchanging wedding rings is a relatively recent development.

In Saudi Arabia, for example, wedding rings appeared less than 100 years ago as Western sentiments began influencing the culture.

“The ring as a gift is permissible; it is the competition in how expensive, how big, and how showy the ring is which is looked down upon in Islam,” an article in Alarabiya News states.

The Victorian Era

Wedding rings did indeed become more lavish over the centuries, and more affordable with the discoveries of gold and precious gems around the world in the 1800s.

Victorian-era (1837-1901) wedding rings in the United States and Europe typically were made of gold and often featured such gemstones as sapphires, rubies, amethyst, garnet, chalcedony, topaz, pearls, Brilliant Earth says.

And, the serpent rings popular in the age of pharaohs made a comeback after Queen Victoria’s groom, Prince Albert, gave her a snake engagement ring.

Twentieth Century and Beyond

From the 1900s to the 1930s, Art Deco wedding bands were all the rage. This style emphasized geometric shapes.

The Art Deco period influenced art, architecture, home decor, fashion, and, yes, jewelry.

Another bit of ring history: For centuries, in many cultures, wedding rings were worn only by women. That changed during World War II, Pettitt wrote for Expatica, and we started seeing more and more “his and hers” matching wedding rings.

“(Men) began to wear wedding rings as a means of carrying their loved ones with them. This was particularly poignant given that they didn’t know if they would ever be reunited.”

Today, his and hers wedding rings are part of wedding ceremonies around the world, but with cultural differences.

For example, the ring is worn on the left hand in most countries where English is spoken, while people in many Orthodox Christian and Eastern European cultures wear their wedding ring on the right.

A relatively recent wedding ring tradition is to wear three rings. A trio ring set includes an engagement ring between a wedding band and a third ring.

In some cases, husbands present the third ring to their wives on their first wedding anniversary. These rings also have been given to the wife after she gave birth to the couple’s first child.

Some say the 3 band wedding ring meaning is past, present, and future. In other cases, a couple decided to go with trio wedding rings to symbolize their commitment to God.

And we haven’t even touched on the tradition of the diamond engagement ring—which is popular in the U.S. and England but not universally—or matching couple wedding rings or bridal set rings.

We most likely will see rings and wedding traditions continue to evolve, but hopefully, the significance of a wedding ring, its symbolism, and its ties to love and commitment will remain firmly in place.

The Bell Tower on 34th, an elegant wedding and event venue in Houston, TX, is committed to helping couples realize their wedding vision.

Learn more about holding a wedding here.

The Bell Tower on 34th

901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018

(713) 868-2355

Creating a Beautiful Brunch Wedding

A few questions for you and your partner…Are mornings when you’re most energized? Do you love the sights and sounds of the break of day? And, here’s a biggie: Is breakfast your absolute favorite meal of the day?

If your answers are yes, yes, and YES, a wedding reception brunch might be a perfect fit for you.

To clarify, a brunch wedding reception takes place in the late morning or early afternoon, following a morning wedding ceremony This option is not the same as an after-wedding brunch, which usually takes place the day following a wedding.

Increasing numbers of couples are embracing the relaxed vibe of brunch weddings, not to mention the opportunity for cost savings. So we’ve put together some factors to consider before opting for a brunch wedding, along with tips and ideas for making a brunch wedding shine.

What You Should Know

First of all, while brunch is often a meal we enjoy after sleeping in, wedding brunches don’t work that way, especially if you’re the bride. Starting your reception late in the morning or early in the afternoon means all of your preparations will start early in the day. We’re talking really early, before the crack of dawn.

If you go this route, you’ll need to convey timelines clearly with your guests, your wedding party, your wedding venue, and all of the vendors you’ll be working with, from the people doing your hair and makeup to your caterer.

A few more thoughts about your guests: Morning weddings may pose a challenge for some of them, depending on their work and family obligations. We recommend touching base with the people you’d like to invite before committing to a morning event.

And, here’s a consideration for those of you looking forward to getting out on the dance floor to celebrate with friends. You can, of course, have dancing at a brunch wedding, but it probably won’t have the same vibe as a nighttime celebration. Guests may be a bit more reserved.

What’s more, daytime weddings are often shorter than evening events, which could result in less time for dancing—and socializing with your guests. If time with friends and family is a high priority, we have some ideas below that might help.

Upsides to Morning Weddings

If formal evening affairs aren’t your style, brunch weddings can be a nice compromise. In most cases, they’re more casual. That applies to dress, décor, table settings: everything that impacts the celebration’s atmosphere. (Of course, if you want a formal morning affair, no one is going to call the wedding police. Whichever way you go, the key is to communicate what you have in mind with guests, the wedding party, and the businesses you’re working with.)

And, a morning event can contribute to a more child-friendly atmosphere—if that’s a priority. Children, in many cases, will be well-rested in the morning and in a better mood than they might be in the evening, with bedtime nearing. If you are going to welcome children, consider offering activities geared for them. Consider giant tabletop dominoes or a large Jenga game. Other popular options are coloring and LEGO stations, a scavenger hunt, and a kids’ photo booth.

Depending on your choices, a morning wedding also could save you money. As Brides magazine recently noted, “opting for mimosas or a Bloody Mary bar over a full bar, and by choosing a casual wedding dress and simplified decor to fit the tone of the event” can help you cut costs.

You also may be able to save on your venue costs by passing on the popular Saturday night time slot, and brunch menu items can be less expensive than dinner selections.

Another plus to brunch weddings: If you plan to have out-of-town guests, a morning wedding frees up time to do something fun in the surrounding area and spend more time with loved ones. In Houston, for example, you could visit Johnson Space Center, check out the wealth of museums and cultural attractions, or depending on the season, attend a special event or festival.

Tips for Success

If you decide to move forward with a brunch wedding, we have some helpful suggestions for you.

Select an optimal venue. Some venues have gorgeous decor and gardens that are perfect for a brunch wedding. As you research possibilities, try to schedule morning or early afternoon tours. And, of course, make sure they’re available for morning events.

Hire photographers who will produce amazing results. If you ask your planner or venue, they might be able to recommend photographers and videographers who have created beautiful, daytime images. Ask for references and examples of their work.

Don’t make your guests wonder what to wear. Be very clear about your dress code on your invitations and wedding website. The definition of casual attire varies from person to person so offer examples of what you envision, from colorful dresses and jumpsuits for women to a sports coat or pants and a button-down shirt for men.

Offer caffeine. Lots of it. We recommend setting up carts with coffee, tea, and light snacks for guests to enjoy before your reception and having coffee stations and/or an espresso at the reception. You can also offer paper coffee cups with customized sleeves. We recently saw a cute sleeve option with a logo that said, “The Perfect Blend,” along with a display of the bride’s and groom’s names and their wedding date.

Create a morning vibe. You have plenty of creative options. Consider citrus, songbird, or coffee-themed centerpieces. Weave morning glory into your bouquet or floral displays. Have fun with playful signage like “I love you a waffle lot” for a waffle station, “Rise and Shine, It’s Wedding Time,” or “Love is Brewing” for a coffee station.

Think about morning-friendly entertainment for your celebration. Possibilities include games, a photo booth, a caricature artist or onsite artist, or a flower crown station.

Select brunch-themed favors. Give guests coffee and tea packages or think about mason jars with premeasured waffle, pancake, or muffin mix and mix-ins.

Personalize your brunch wedding with meaningful details that reflect your personalities and love story. Consider incorporating elements like custom signage, monogrammed napkins, or themed decor that showcases your unique style and adds a personal touch to the festivities.

The Food!

What’s a brunch wedding without scrumptious food? Here are our tips.

Don’t forget your guests’ needs and preferences. Just like a dinner menu, you’ll need to consider food allergies and dietary restrictions. And, you’ll need to aim for a variety of food choices that can satisfy eclectic tastes and preferences.

Ask your caterer about food stations. Your options for brunches are endless from omelets, pastries, and crepes to fresh fruit, doughnuts, and bagel food stations.

Have fun with your appetizers. Think about crab cakes, deviled eggs, chicken-and-waffle skewers, mini breakfast pizzas, or bacon planks (bite-sized sweet or savory foods wrapped in bacon).

Egg it up. Yes, omelets are great, but guests might also enjoy quiche, frittatas, eggs Benedict, eggs Florentine, or egg casserole.

Have you thought about smoothie bowls?  According to Peppersartfulevens.com, smoothie bowls are a rising trend. They comprise a smoothie base with such toppings as chia seeds, berries and fruits, nuts, seeds, granola, and coconut.

Don’t limit the selection to breakfast foods. Include salads, finger sandwiches, and proteins like salmon or beef strata.

Offer appealing drinks. Popular options include mimosas, screwdrivers, Bellinis, and Bloody Marys. Guests also will appreciate juice, smoothies, and other non-alcoholic drinks.

You can get creative with your cake. Brides magazine suggests a light choice, possibly angel food cake, coffee cake, or a creation made of crepes, waffles, or pancakes. Another option is a small, one-tier wedding cake for the wedding—or your anniversary.

As you can see, wedding brunches lend themselves to fun, creativity, and special memories. With some thought and planning, your morning wedding will be spectacular.

The Bell Tower on 34th is an elegant wedding venue in Houston, TX. Our elegant building is known for beautiful touches, including a grand staircase and a stunning waterfall.

Contact us to learn more.

The Bell Tower on 34th

901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018

(713) 868-2355

Pros and Cons of a Prenuptial Agreement in Texas

It's not at all unusual to feel uncomfortable with the idea of a prenuptial agreement.

We've heard people say they don't like the idea of thinking about divorce before they even get married. And that's understandable.

But avoiding a potentially uncomfortable topic is not necessarily a good idea, either. It could be worth the effort to decide as a couple whether a prenuptial agreement—also known as a prenup or a premarital agreement—is right for you.

You should also know that more and more couples are seeing value in setting up some kind of premarital agreement. A 2022 survey on prenups by market research firm Harris Poll found that out of 1,000 people, 15% of married or engaged respondents had signed a prenuptial agreement, a considerable increase from 3% in 2010.

What’s more, setting up a prenup does not increase a marriage’s likelihood of ending in divorce.

As California-based family attorney and mediator Sandy Roxas told Brides magazine, from what she has seen, her clients with prenups have fared quite well.

“The divorce rate in California is over 50%, however in my sixteen years of practice, only 5% of my premarital agreement clients have returned to file for divorce or legal separation," Roxas said.

To help you navigate the pros and cons of prenups, we’ve put together this guide with basic information about prenuptial agreements, particularly in Texas.

What is a Prenuptial Agreement?

A prenuptial agreement is a legally binding contract signed by both parties prior to marriage. that determines what happens in case of a future divorce.

Specifically, a prenup outlines how assets and debts will be divided if the marriage ends.

Beyond asset and debt division, prenups can also address various other matters, such as spousal support, property rights, and even estate planning considerations.

While some may view prenuptial agreements as anticipating the end of a marriage, they can actually strengthen communication and foster transparency between partners, laying a foundation for a strong and secure relationship.

The Benefits of a Texas Prenup

There are good reasons why a Texas couple may want a prenuptial agreement. Here are some of them:

Protects assets you owned before the marriage: Without a prenup, Texas is a "community property" state, meaning all property acquired during the marriage is divided 50/50. A prenup lets you protect possessions you already had.

Clarifies financial expectations: Establishing a prenup requires open talks about finances, debt obligations, spending habits, and other personal finance topics that couples sometimes are reluctant to discuss. Getting it all out in the open prevents surprises down the road.

Promotes planning for inheritances and family businesses: If one partner expects to receive a large inheritance or already owns part of a family business, premarital agreements can ensure that those assets stay with the intended recipient.

The Downsides of a Prenup in Texas

However, there are some disadvantages to consider as well before saying "I do" to a prenup. They include:

Upfront cost: Having an attorney draft a solid prenup costs $2000+ in legal fees.

Can seem unromantic: Some partners feel prenups undermine trust and commitment. Approach conversations about prenups sensitively to avoid hurt feelings.

Terms could change: Much can happen during a marriage, so if you create a prenuptial agreement, it will be important to revisit it occasionally to amend terms as needed.

Texas judges will generally uphold updated prenups.

What Couples Can and Cannot Include in a Texas Prenup

When developing a prenup in Texas, you and your future spouse have broad flexibility in coming up with mutually agreeable contract terms about how to divide your property if you later divorce.

However, there are a few limitations imposed by Texas law on prenup content. They include:

-How to split marital property and debts

-Plans for spousal support if you divorce

-What happens to benefits and rights from wills, trusts, retirement accounts, annuities, and similar accounts and documents.

How to handle the commingling of community property with separate property

-How future earnings will be classified

While Texas generally gives wide latitude on prenup terms, there are certain stipulations Texas law does not permit in domestic contracts like prenups. They include:

-Anything promoting divorce

-Limiting child support payment amounts

-Blocking child custody/visitation rights

-Forcing one spouse onto government assistance

-Requiring illegal or morally objectionable acts

Any provisions found by a judge to encourage divorce or keep a dependent spouse impoverished risks nullifying sections or the entire prenup.

This is why enlisting an experienced attorney is crucial for crafting an enforceable agreement. They keep you safely within allowable boundaries under Texas statutes.

Broaching the Topic

Because prenuptial agreements do require what may be an awkward financial conversation, here are some tips for making it easier:

-Bring up this subject early to avoid surprises.

- Frame talks positively—explain why you want the protection.

- Be honest about all assets, debts, and property ownership details.

- Listen to any concerns your future spouse expresses.

Protecting Against Responsibility for Spouse's Debt

One crucial aspect of prenuptial agreements in Texas is the ability to shield yourself from the financial burden of your spouse's debts.

Because Texas follows community property laws, both spouses are generally responsible for debts incurred during the marriage in Texas. However, a well-crafted prenuptial agreement allows you to establish clear guidelines regarding each party's financial responsibilities. Here are some tips for approaching debit in your marital agreement.

Protection of Separate Assets: Emphasize the separation of individual assets and debts acquired before the marriage. This ensures that your personal financial standing remains unaffected by your spouse's pre-existing obligations.

Debt Division: Clearly outline how existing debts will be handled in the event of a divorce. Specify whether each spouse will be responsible for their individual debts or if there will be a shared responsibility for certain obligations.

Financial Transparency: Use the prenup as an opportunity to foster open communication about each other's financial situations. Discuss current debts, credit scores, and any outstanding financial obligations to eliminate surprises and build trust.

Limitations on Future Debt: Consider incorporating provisions that limit the extent to which one spouse can incur debt on behalf of the other without explicit consent. This helps prevent unforeseen financial liabilities during your marriage.

Including information on debt protection within the prenuptial agreement reinforces its role as a tool for thoughtful financial planning and risk management in marriage.

Safeguarding Business Interests

For entrepreneurs in Texas, a prenuptial agreement can serve as a crucial instrument in protecting their hard-earned assets and business interests. Here are key considerations for including business protection clauses in your prenup:

Business valuation: Clearly stipulate how the business will be valued in the event of a divorce. This valuation method can help determine the extent to which the business will be considered part of the marital estate.

Separation of business and marital assets: Outline the separation of business assets from marital assets. Specify that the business and its associated income remain the sole property of the business owner, safeguarding it from division during divorce proceedings.

Spousal involvement: Clearly define the level of involvement, if any, that the spouse will have in the business. This can include decision-making authority, management roles, and whether the spouse is entitled to a share of business profits.

Preventing business liquidation: Address the possibility of the business being sold or liquidated in the event of divorce. Establish terms that prioritize the continuity and stability of the business, reducing the risk of forced liquidation to satisfy marital asset division.

Future business ventures: Anticipate and account for future business ventures. If you plan to start additional businesses during the marriage, clarify how these ventures will be treated in the event of a divorce.

Buy-sell agreements: Consider incorporating buy-sell agreement provisions into the prenup. This can establish a predetermined process for selling or transferring business ownership in the event of divorce, protecting both spouses' interests.

Financial compensation: Determine whether the non-business-owning spouse will receive any form of financial compensation or support in consideration of the business's success, and if so, outline the terms of such compensation.

Including these provisions in a prenuptial agreement ensures that business owners can enter into marriage with confidence, knowing that their business interests are protected.

Get an Attorney’s Help With Your Texas Prenup

While online templates make setting up prenups seem like a quick and easy way to save money, having an experienced family law attorney customize your prenuptial agreement is highly advisable. Texas judges scrutinize DIY prenups more closely for enforcement issues compared to ones created by legal professionals.

An attorney can handle all the required formalities and legal language intricacies involved with prenups to ensure yours stands against legal challenges if needed down the road. They can also advise you on what can and cannot be included based on Texas statutes.

Fostering Peace of Mind

While certainly not essential, more and more couples see the wisdom in outlining financial ground rules for marriage ahead of time through prenups.

For those bringing significant personal assets into a marriage or looking to safeguard future inheritances, prenups can provide invaluable peace of mind.

The Bell Tower on 34th is a wedding venue committed to delivering excellent events that no one will ever forget.

Our elegant, purpose-built venue is based in the Garden Oaks neighborhood close to downtown Houston.

Learn more about our event packages.

The Bell Tower on 34th

901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018

(713) 868-2355

Creating an Unforgettable Wedding Cocktail Hour

Offering a cocktail hour can add a real sense of sparkle and excitement to your wedding day.

Generally, cocktail hour refers to the period between the wedding ceremony and your reception dinner. It can be held in your reception space, but most people opt to have their cocktail hour in a unique setting.

The idea is to give guests a chance to relax and get in the party mode while enjoying some light snacks (usually via passed hors d'oeuvres or food stations) and drinks, and begin socializing with one another before the next phase of your wedding celebration gets under way.

If you’re asking yourself, “How long is cocktail hour?” or “When does cocktail hour start?”, it generally begins 30 to 60 minutes after your ceremony and lasts for about an hour, giving you time to offer guests cocktail hour essentials like drinks, snacks, and socialization.

From what we're seeing, not only are more and more brides and grooms opting to include a cocktail hour in their wedding, but they're also going all out to make that 60-minute period something special. They're getting creative with food, drinks, and ambiance, and they're even lining up cocktail hour entertainment.

If the idea of giving your guests 60 minutes infused with fun, laughter, and memorable moments appeals to you, we have some wedding cocktail hour tips and ideas to help set you up for cocktail-hour success.

But first, let’s explore the decision of whether to offer a cocktail hour.

Is Cocktail Hour Necessary?

There are pros and cons to including a cocktail hour. On the plus side, it gives guests something to do while waiting between the ceremony and reception. It's a chance for different friend groups to socialize and catch up. A cocktail hour can also allow the wedding party to take formal photos during this time.

On the downside, cocktail hours add expense to the wedding budget for drinks, food, and sometimes extra vendor fees for an extended reception timeline. Some couples may prefer to get the reception started sooner so guests are not kept waiting too long after the ceremony.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to the couple's preferences and priorities. Couples on a tight budget can have a successful reception without a cocktail hour. But for couples who want to offer their guests an enhanced experience, the cocktail hour can be a special start to the reception.

If you decide a cocktail hour and reception to follow is right for your wedding, these dos and don’ts can help.

DO consider bringing your wedding cocktail hour outside.

Most people love being outdoors. That's why outdoor ceremonies and receptions are such popular options. So why not capitalize on that, give your guests some fresh air, and hold an outdoor cocktail hour?

To keep your guests comfortable during your cocktail hour, you want an outdoor space that's light and comfortable, ideally with no cramped spaces. Patios, rooftops, poolside locations, and balconies are ideal for weddings and wedding cocktail hours and help set the mood for a party.

Granted, if you're having a summer wedding in Houston, an outdoor wedding cocktail hour can be trickier. But if you love the idea, you always can go with a brunch wedding and serve coffee and mimosas--or opt to hold your cocktail hour in the evening.

But if you go with an outdoor cocktail hour, DO plan for rain.

You can prepare for rainy weather by having a supply of umbrellas and towels available and setting up a tent.

It also would be considerate to have travel-size bottles of sunscreen available, along with insect repellant and fans.

DON'T underestimate the importance of comfortable seating.

Although you aren't necessarily required to provide a seating arrangement for your cocktail hour space, we do recommend making sure your guests have plenty of comfy places where they can sit, nibble on finger food, and enjoy their drinks.

There also should be plenty of room for people to move around and chat.

DO pass drinks as soon as guests arrive.

Your serving team should be ready to offer guests cocktails, beer, and wine from the moment your wedding cocktail hour begins. This makes guests feel welcome and helps reduce the long wait time at the bars.

DO try innovative drink presentations.

Creative drink presentations at your cocktail hour can enhance your guests' enjoyment and complement the vibe you’re hoping to create.

Do you want a wedding cocktail hour with the feel of a rural wedding? Arrange bottles of cold beer in a wheel barrel, beer cooler, or in a galvanized metal tub.

Are you going for a cocktail party with a creative look? Add some shelves to the rungs of a ladder and load them up with cocktails.

Or, create an elegant drink station with luxurious linens and lush floral arrangements for your wedding cocktail hour.

DO consider a similar approach and set up creative food stations.

Food stations are extremely popular at wedding receptions, but there's no reason why you can't have them at your wedding cocktail hour, too. Again, go for creative cocktail hour appetizer presentations that tie in with your overall atmosphere or theme.

Some of the trends in cocktail hour appetizers we're seeing include charcuterie boards and themed stations with tacos, pasta, and pizza.

DO offer signature cocktails.

Your list of cocktail hour ideas wouldn't be complete without mentioning the idea of signature drinks. This is a highly effective way to customize your celebration and showcase your personality.

If you’re wondering how many signature drinks to have at your wedding, one or two options would be ideal. We wouldn’t recommend creating more than three: You want your signature cocktail(s) to be unique to your wedding and memorable.

And if you’re wondering about the best signature drinks for a wedding, you can look to your wedding theme for inspiration. Some go-to cocktail recommendations for a wedding cocktail hour include:

-Classic Drinks with a Twist: Customize classics like an Old Fashioned, Moscow Mule, or Gin and Tonic by using unique liquors or garnishes. This allows you to add personal flair.

-Seasonal Sips: Incorporate fresh, seasonal ingredients into drinks like mint and fruit in summer or spiced cider and wine in winter. This complements the time of year.

-His and Hers Cocktails: Craft a signature cocktail for you and your spouse-to-be based on your tastes and preferences.

-Local Finds: Regional wine, beer, or liquor that represents where you live or are getting married can make good wedding drinks.

-Colorful Concoctions: Vibrant drinks in shades like pink, blue, or purple make a visually striking statement.

-Passed Drinks: Consider passed champagne, mini margaritas, or shot pairings as a unique way to serve drinks.

Many of these ideas would work as cocktails for events, in addition to weddings.

DO take a creative approach to your signature cocktail signage.

You'll want to have cocktail hour signs that inform your guests about your signature cocktail and its contents.

But, think about going beyond the basics and incorporating some artistry or fun into your wedding cocktail signs.

Or, if your signature drink has special meanings for you and your partner—maybe it was created in memory of someone special, or it showcases your honeymoon destination—use your sign to share that information. You can add art or photos, too.

If it is hot, DO offer drinks that will help guests keep cool.

From frozen drinks to spiked iced tea or lemonade, the right drinks will help your guests stay comfortable. You also can consider boozy ice pops, a take on the popsicle.

Aim for a summer weather signature drink as well.

DO try small creative touches.

Another fun wedding cocktail hour idea is to add small, creative touches to augment your atmosphere or support your theme.

One option, for example, is to offer napkins displaying fun facts or trivia questions about you and your partner.

Additional happy hour decorating ideas include a living wall with greenery and potted plants, and custom drink stirrers.

If your budget allows it, DO bring furniture.

Couples are starting to bring indoor furniture outside to help create a unique atmosphere for their wedding cocktail hour. You can arrange to rent furniture or bring in something that belongs to you. Couples have used couches, end tables, bookcases, and more.

DO take a strategic approach to live music.

If you're interested in entertainment, live music is an excellent way to enhance the mood of your wedding cocktail hour and set a party tone. Or, you can work with your wedding venue to create and play a cocktail party playlist.

DON'T let the music take center stage.

Cocktail hour is a time for chatting, and you don't want bands or DJs making conversation challenging.

Choose something subtle like a string quartet, a jazz ensemble, a strolling violinist, or even an acoustic act.

DO THINK ABOUT A PHOTO BOOTH for your cocktail hour.

A photo booth is a fun way to encourage your guests to begin taking photos before your wedding party starts! This is a great way to memorialize the day and capture candid moments that a professional photographer might miss.

Your guests will appreciate the chance to keep print-outs of the cocktail hour photos.

And, offering the photo booth will add to the fun and encourage guests who don't know each other to mingle and start chatting.

DO plan wedding cocktail hour games.

Instead of letting drinks take center stage, think of your cocktail hour as a fun event with cocktails. Not only can cocktail hour activities help keep your guests entertained, but they also encourage guests to socialize, laugh, and relax.

Try some popular cocktail games for parties including the I Spy Wedding game, table tennis, giant Jenga, lawn games, and cocktail table tic-tac-toe, among others.

DON'T be afraid to make bold food choices.

Wondering what to offer for your wedding cocktail/reception menu? While the goal at a reception dinner is to provide choices for a wide range of tastes, there's nothing wrong with taking a different approach to the food you offer at your cocktail hour.

Consider fun foods from where you and your partner came from or some examples of your personal favorites.

DO consider the possibility of food allergies or dietary restrictions.

Hopefully, you'll be asking guests to share allergies, food sensitivities, and dietary restrictions when you invite them. Be sure to keep that information in mind as you plan your cocktail hour foods.

Do Consider a Cigar Bar

For an extra touch of luxury, think about offering a cigar bar during your cocktail hour.

This caters to cigar-aficionado guests, creating a designated space for them to relax and enjoy a premium cigar selection alongside specialty cocktails or aged liquors. This can be a particularly delightful addition for an outdoor evening wedding.

Here are some things to consider when offering a cigar bar at a wedding:

-Venue Restrictions: Confirm if your venue allows cigar smoking and designate a well-ventilated outdoor area.

-Curation: Partner with a cigar roller or shop to offer a variety of cigars suited to different preferences.

-Ambiance: Create a comfortable atmosphere with plush seating, elegant lighters, and high-quality ashtrays.

Here are some ideas to make your cigar bar at the wedding more inclusive for non-smokers:

-Designated area: Ensure the cigar bar is in a well-ventilated outdoor space, downwind from the main wedding area. This minimizes cigar smoke drifting toward non-smoking guests.

-Separate seating: Provide ample seating outside the designated cigar bar area for non-smokers to enjoy their cocktails comfortably.

-Alternative activity area: Set up a separate area with yard games like cornhole or giant Jenga. This creates a fun and engaging space for non-smokers to socialize.

DO keep cocktail hour etiquette in mind.

To keep your guests happy and comfortable, keep the "hour" part of cocktail hour in mind and make a point of moving on to the wedding reception portion of the celebration on time.

Also, keep in mind that you may have some guests who cannot—or prefer not to—drink. Be considerate and offer a variety of non-alcoholic drinks as well—maybe even a signature mocktail. For a summer wedding, especially if the cocktail hour is outdoors, offer a wedding water station.

If you’re allowing children at your wedding, DON'T forget to keep them occupied.

Little ones will need things to do during cocktail hour. Ideas could include a supervised game room, hiring children’s entertainment, offering age-appropriate toys and games, and offering child-friendly food and beverages.

DON'T limit your planning to our cocktail hour ideas.

You don't have to stop with our ideas and suggestions. We hope this article serves as a springboard for your own creative cocktail hour touches.

The Bell Tower on 34th, a wedding and event venue in Houston, TX, is committed to helping couples realize their wedding vision.

Learn more about holding a wedding here.

The Bell Tower on 34th

901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018

(713) 868-2355

Wedding Food Ideas to Delight Your Guests

Ask people to tell you about a wedding they attended, and chances are good that one of the things they’ll mention—in addition to the beautiful ceremony—will be what they thought of the food.

Food helps shape memories. It influences our mood.

We’re not saying this to stress you out about your menu choices. Instead, try to think of your wedding food as an opportunity, a powerful tool for enhancing your guests’—not to mention your own—experience at your wedding.

To help, we've compiled a collection of ideas for wedding reception meals and planning tips for you and your spouse-to-be.

How To Choose a Wedding Reception Menu

Keep the following suggestions in mind as you and your spouse begin the process of planning your wedding menu.

Give yourself plenty of time.

In other words, put your menu planning high on your list of wedding to-dos. Do your research, and schedule your tastings. And if possible, try to book your caterer at least a year in advance. If your event will take place during their busy wedding season, late spring through early fall, you might even need to book earlier.

Make a decision: sit-down dinners, food stations, or buffet?

Don't worry: There's no wrong answer here. Select the approach that best fits the atmosphere you're trying to create. Or, look at the food options for these approaches and see what speaks to you. Maybe you'll love the idea of a macaroni and cheese station, or you want your guests to enjoy filet mignon being served to them at their table. You may want to emphasize wedding food traditions, or you may be looking for a chance to try something a little different. Ask prospective caterers about your options, top food station ideas, and dinner menu examples.

Successful menus for a wedding reception have plenty of choices.

While you won’t be able to provide each guest with their favorite foods, try to offer a wedding menu with variety. You might want to, for instance, offer one or two meat entrees and a dish for your vegan guests. Or, you can select American comfort food along with something more spicy or exotic.

Don’t sacrifice your own preferences.

While you absolutely should consider your guests as you plan your wedding menu, it’s perfectly OK to include choices that you love—along with foods that tie in with your wedding theme.

Be ready to accommodate special requests.

Ask potential caterers how they handle special requests for wedding banquet food, from gluten-free options to vegetarian dishes. We also recommend including a place on your wedding invitations where people can add food allergies and dietary restrictions that you and your caterer can consider while selecting food items for your wedding reception.

Pick appetizers, main dishes, and sides.

Another reason to give yourself plenty of time to make your wedding menu decisions is you will be selecting more than wedding main courses. You'll be mulling over your options for all of the food provided.

Do you want dessert options?

This is another consideration: Do you want to stick with the wedding cake (and possibly the groom's cake) for dessert, offer an alternative, or include desserts in addition to your wedding cake?

Don't forget cocktail hour.

While creating a menu for your reception will be a priority, if you'd like to have a cocktail hour you'll need to make food choices for that portion of your wedding, too. Most couples select fun finger foods for cocktail hour.

Wedding Food Ideas

Could you use a little inspiration for your wedding menu? Need some wedding dinner ideas (or wedding lunch ideas)?

Here are a few possibilities to help you create a wedding feast that is absolutely delicious.

Wedding Buffets-Menus and More

Wedding buffets are another excellent option for your wedding meal.

A wedding buffet is a common meal service style where numerous dishes are attractively displayed for guests to serve themselves. Rather than being served individual plates at their tables, guests can visit food tables and choose which foods and how much they would like on their wedding plate.

Buffets allow couples to offer guests more options and variety. They also create an informal environment where guests can mingle while serving themselves. Wedding buffets require planning to ensure ample food amounts, dinnerware, and decor that aligns with the couple's style and wedding aesthetic.

Generally, a typical wedding menu for a buffet might include a chicken entree, beef, pasta, multiple side dish options, salad, and dinner rolls.

We recommend including options for vegan guests and those with dietary restrictions.

You also can tweak the buffet options to include a favorite dish, from seafood to lamb. Or, you can include foods that time in with your theme, like fried chicken or barbecue for a rustic wedding.

Sliders

Sliders have been growing in popularity at wedding receptions and cocktail hour. They’re delicious, but not too filling. They’re not messy, and they lend themselves to a lot of creative options. Sliders are also high on our list for wedding luncheon ideas.

Sushi Station

Sushi is a great wedding food choice, especially if you and your partner love it. Sushi displays are lovely and add an element of elegance to a wedding.

Keep in mind though, that not everyone at your wedding reception will be a sushi fan. It's possible that someone will ask, "Why would I want to eat raw fish?" That's not a big issue. We simply suggest, as we mentioned, offering a variety of options. Another consideration: Because of the raw ingredients in sushi, we don't advise leaving it out very long.

Paella

This works as an appetizer or side dish. Served in a pan, paella is a big crowd-pleaser at weddings. Guests are drawn to the aroma of the rice, vegetables, and meat, along with the sound of sizzling food and the colorful, delicious ingredients.

Grazing Tables

When it comes to cool wedding food ideas, one fun option is the grazing table: a generous, colorful, family-style food presentation. Grazing tables often feature a large charcuterie or a display of meats, cheeses, olives, pickles, and loaves of bread, along with fresh fruits, dips, crackers, and nuts.

These tables encourage mingling and relaxed conversations as guests help themselves to the food.

Food Tower Ideas

With food, presentation plays a major role in creating appeal.

And at weddings, one popular mode of presentation is a dramatic, show-stopping tower.

You can talk with your venue or caterer about a cookie tower, a Champagne tower, a cheese tower—the possibilities are practically endless.

Skewers

Kebabs are another great wedding food. You can offer creative combinations of meats, cheeses, vegetables, or maybe vegan options. Grilled kebabs are tender and flavorful, too.

Braised Meats

Braised dishes (chicken, pork, or lamb) are an excellent choice for weddings: They’re flavorful, and juicy, and they pair with a wealth of side dishes. They also offer great visual appeal.

Fish Option

Salmon is a popular wedding food choice among couples and their guests. It holds its shape well, and makes for a beautiful presentation in a plated meal.

Other excellent fish and seafood choices for your entree include sea bass, red snapper, and shrimp.

Add a tasty sauce to enhance flavor.

Texas Favorites

You always can embrace Lone Star favorites for your wedding main course ideas, from barbecue brisket to fajitas, for your meal. Complement the barbecue with French fries, mashed potatoes or potato salad, or corn. If you go with fajitas, think about refried beans or Mexican rice as sides.

Pizza for Your Wedding

If you're looking to infuse a sense of casual charm and universal appeal into your wedding menu, consider the timeless option of pizza.

A pizza station at your wedding brings a familiar and comforting touch, making it a favorite among guests of all ages.

Pizza varieties to consider include:

Traditional Margherita: Classic and simple, featuring tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Meat Lovers' Delight: Packed with savory goodness, including pepperoni, sausage, bacon, and other meaty delights.

Veggie Extravaganza: A garden-fresh option with an array of colorful vegetables, from bell peppers to cherry tomatoes.

Custom Creations: Allow guests to craft their own personalized pizzas with a variety of toppings, ensuring everyone gets exactly what they crave.

Luxury Wedding Menu Ideas

For couples looking to add an extra touch of elegance and sophistication to their wedding menu, here are some luxurious options to consider:

-Caviar station: A caviar bar with blinis, crème fraîche, chopped onions, and other savory accompaniments can make for an indulgent and memorable cocktail hour.

-Oyster bar: Fresh shucked oysters on the half shell with mignonette sauce and lemon wedges create a refined and upscale vibe.

-Lobster tails: Serve decadent lobster tails as a main course or in individual cocktail-sized portions during the reception.

-Beef Wellington: This classic dish of tender beef wrapped in flaky puff pastry exudes elegance and luxury.

-Foie gras: Consider offering foie gras as an appetizer, perhaps paired with a sweet fruit compote or reduction.

Champagne tower: A towering display of champagne flutes creates a celebratory and opulent focal point.

-Dessert bar: Offer an array of petit fours, macarons, chocolate truffles, and other delicate gourmet sweets.

Serve Brunch Dishes

Looking for some unique wedding food ideas? Serve breakfast for dinner.

Brunch foods are a huge crowd-pleaser and a great choice for wedding evening food. Offer a crepe station or serve up pancakes, smoked salmon, crab cakes, fruit kebabs, and deviled eggs. Other fun choices include mini quiche, donuts, and Belgian waffles.

Summer Wedding Ideas

Thinking of a summer wedding? We recommend lighter fare that's fresh, seasonal, and creative. Some of your many options include edible flowers served with berries, melons, and fresh herbs. Or, offer a summer picnic complete with fried chicken, whipped sweet potatoes, and grilled mixed vegetables.

Affordable Wedding Menu Reception Ideas

Couples sometimes ask us about “cheap wedding reception menu” ideas or “cheap appetizers for a wedding.”

Planning a wedding reception menu on a budget can seem daunting, but it's possible to employ inexpensive wedding menu ideas without breaking the bank.

For appetizers, for example, a simple vegetable or cheese and cracker tray is an affordable option.

Main course ideas include herb-roasted chicken, pasta, and pork tenderloin.

Non-Traditional Wedding Food Ideas

Looking for wedding menu ideas that are anything but ordinary? Explore these creative, non-traditional food options for your reception.

Try tasty Asian dishes like chicken broccoli, fried rice, or Hoisen beef.

Or, instead of chicken offer roasted duck or lamb.

Or, go with popular regional dishes like Texas barbecue, chicken fajitas, or blacked chicken with crawfish étouffée sauce.

Another fun option is to offer late-night snacks on your menu. Burgers, slider sandwiches, tacos, fries, or milkshakes offered late into the night are great for soaking up cocktails and satisfying hunger after dancing up an appetite.

Wedding Refreshment Ideas

In addition to food, you should be prepared to offer a wide variety of wedding refreshments including water, iced tea (especially for a Texas wedding), juices, and sodas.

Additional possibilities, in addition to the alcoholic beverages you offer, could include punch, mocktails, fruit-infused water, lemonade, coffees, cold-brew tea, or hot chocolate.

Wedding Menu Sign Ideas

Displaying your wedding menu is a great way to let guests know what delicious foods will be served. Menu signs also double as attractive decor elements for the reception. Consider these creative ideas for your wedding menu signs:

-Chalkboard signs: Chalkboard menus exude a trendy, rustic vibe. Have your calligrapher list the courses in colored chalk.

-Framed paper signs: Print your menu on decorative paper and frame in simple wood or metal frames for a refined look.

-Signs on easels: Place menu signs on elegant easels at the entrance to the reception or beside the buffet and bar.

-Individual table menus: Set single menu cards printed with the courses on each guest table setting.

-Flower menu boards: Arrange a menu on a board surrounded by flowers matching your wedding palette.

Mirrored signs: For glamorous weddings, print menus on mirrored acrylic or glass signs.

Signs on wood slices: For natural weddings, print your menu on slices of wood cut from trees.

Get creative with size, materials, fonts, colors, and embellishments to design wedding menu signs you'll treasure along with memories of your menu. Display them prominently so guests know what delicious details they can look forward to.

ASK THE EXPERTS

These suggestions are only a few of many, many options. We encourage you to talk with your venue or caterer and ask for their thoughts and traditional wedding menu ideas (or not-so-traditional ideas), based on your wedding season and theme. They can offer suggestions for fresh, locally grown foods and offer ideas for pairing entrees and catering side dishes. You also can read reviews for wedding venue food. See which dishes really wowed people.

The Bell Tower on 34th, a wedding and event venue in Houston, TX, is committed to helping couples realize their wedding vision.

Our elegant venue, with an executive chef, is purpose-built for special events.

Learn more about holding a wedding here.

The Bell Tower on 34th

901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018

(713) 868-2355

Answering Your Wedding Questions: What if Someone Objects?

Have you ever imagined yourself in the following scenario? Your wedding officiant says, “If anyone objects to this union, speak now or forever hold your peace,” and someone actually speaks up.

Awkward!

While it's rare for someone to say “I object” at a wedding, it does happen occasionally. Here’s what you need to know about wedding objections and how to handle one with grace in the unlikely event it happens on your wedding day.

What is a Wedding Objection?

Wedding objections refer to when someone speaks up to oppose the marriage during the traditional “speak now or forever hold your peace” portion of the wedding ceremony.

Typically, the officiant will ask if anyone has a reason why the couple should not be legally wed. An objection occurs when someone speaks up after this question is asked.

Why Would Someone Object?

There are a few reasons why someone might speak up during a wedding ceremony:

-They have a legal reason: They believe one or both people are already married to someone else. This could happen if one partner had a previous marriage they never legally dissolved.

-They know of a serious reason the couple should not marry, such as the relationship being unethical or illegal in some way.

-They consider it a last-ditch effort to have a relationship with you. Maybe they harbor unrequited romantic feelings or jealousy and are acting on emotion rather than logic.

-They are intoxicated and causing a scene.

-As a prank or dare (not recommended!)

Do You Have to Include the Objection Question?

These days, the "If anyone objects" sentence is often omitted from wedding ceremonies. But you might find it's part of your ceremony script if you're a member of an Anglican or Episcopal church holding a religious ceremony. The statement comes from the Book of Common Prayer's marriage liturgy section.

If your denomination requires the "if anyone objects" statement, and you’re concerned about the possibility of someone answering, consider having a private legal marriage ahead of time, then excluding this portion of the script from your symbolic ceremony.

Of course, it's still possible (however unlikely) that someone will speak up without waiting for the officiant's cue.

Preventive Measures

If you’re worried someone may object during your wedding day, here are some measures you can take to help avoid it:

-Don’t invite anyone you think would intentionally ruin your day. Only share wedding details with trusted friends and family.

-Give potentially challenging guests a role in the wedding so they feel included and are less likely to object.

-If you think someone close to you harbors unresolved feelings, speak to them honestly ahead of time. They may need closure.

-Remind your wedding officiant they can ignore frivolous interruptions and continue with the ceremony.

-Consider hiring security to politely escort out any drunken or disorderly guests before the objection point.

What Happens If Someone Objects?

So can you still go forward with your wedding vows if anyone objects? Most likely. Generally, a wedding objection cannot legally halt the ceremony.

Your officiant can ignore it and continue with the wedding if they wish. That said, a legitimate legal objection, such as proof one partner is already married, may result in the wedding officiant pausing the ceremony to address it. But a casual objection without legal merit cannot stop the proceedings.

How Should You Respond?

Stay calm. Take a deep breath and try not to react in the moment. Look to your officiant to handle the situation and do not engage directly with the objecting party. The officiant may intervene and remove the person if necessary.

If the officiant pauses the ceremony, respectfully comply, but ask to reconvene privately after investigating the objection.

Above all, do not let an objection ruin your special day. Stay beside your partner and focus on your love and commitment. An objection says more about the person objecting than about you.

Overcoming the Awkwardness

If someone causes an awkward scene with an objection at your wedding, try to defuse tension with humor and grace. Laughter and lightness can help smooth over discomfort. Possible responses could include:

-"Duly noted. Now let's get to the good part!"

-"We appreciate your concern, but this train has already left the station!"

-"If you have any additional relationship advice, you can write us after the honeymoon."

"Thank you, next!" (A nod to Ariana Grande's hit breakup song.)"

-"Bless your heart, but we've got this covered." (This response is perfect for a Texas wedding, but say it with a smile to take the edge off.)

-"We'll be sure to keep that in mind at our 10-year vow renewal!"

-"We know you mean well, but today is about love, not objections."

The key is keeping it lighthearted rather than mean-spirited. A bit of humor can help diffuse the awkward tension and get things upbeat again. Just don't engage negatively or dramatically. A touch of comedy reminds everyone this is a joyful occasion.

If an objection occurs, we also encourage you to look to your wedding party, family, and community for reassurance and support. Focus on those there to celebrate your love, not the one person trying to undermine it.

Advice for Wedding Guests

If you attend a wedding where someone objects, please do not gasp, whisper, or stare. Remain silent and let the couple and officiant handle it gracefully.

Offer your emotional support through peaceful, loving energy rather than an audible reaction. Clap when the ceremony continues to restore a celebratory spirit. Most importantly, do not gossip or dwell on the objection later. Let the couple overcome the awkwardness privately.

Every marriage has challenges. An objection forces a couple to draw on their resilience and commitment from day one. With the right mindset and support system, an objection can actually strengthen your relationship. Focus on love, not the distraction. Your union will grow even deeper as you overcome trying moments hand-in-hand.

The Bell Tower on 34th in Houston, TX, is a wedding venue committed to helping couples realize their unique vision for their big day.

Our elegant venue, a short drive from Conroe, TX, is known for our supportive, knowledgable team members and beautiful, Old World setting.

Learn more about holding a wedding here.

The Bell Tower on 34th

901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018

(713) 868-2355

Hosting A Reception Following a Private Wedding Ceremony

Typically, when people imagine their dream wedding, they envision a ceremony where they say their vows, surrounded by their wedding party, and then float happily down the aisle amid beaming family and friends to the sound of wedding bells. Immediately afterward, it’s off to the reception, with the promise of food, drink, festivities, and fun!

It’s a pretty safe bet to assume this traditional wedding day combo is here to stay, but, like with many time-honored traditions, there are always those who like to shake things up! For those folks, the option to throw a reception-only wedding celebration is an option worth considering.

But before we launch into the hows of pulling off the delayed big bash (or small reception) to celebrate your marriage, here are a few reasons why having guests at a marriage celebration instead of a wedding may be right for you and your partner.

-You’re looking to elope but want to celebrate with friends and family later.

-You need/want to get married in a hurry.

-You desire an intimate wedding ceremony but want an unforgettable night with a rollicking, large-scale celebration (and possibly a cocktail hour).

-You’re hosting a destination wedding reception for guests but want to be married in your local church/mosque/synagogue or another house of worship.

-You married during the height of the pandemic with no bridal party and few or no guests, and now you want to celebrate on a larger scale

-You want to invite children to the reception but fear they will disrupt a solemn ceremony.

-You want to follow up a small ceremony with a surprise wedding.

When you opt for a reception-only celebration, the focus shifts to creating an unforgettable evening of festivities without the formalities of a traditional ceremony. Plus, reception-only celebrations can give you the flexibility to tailor your event to your preferences and budget. You can prioritize elements like food, entertainment, and decor to create a memorable experience for your guests without the constraints of a traditional wedding timeline.

How to plan a Reception

Just like a traditional wedding, a reception-only event calls for careful planning and consideration, often months in advance.

Here are a few items to consider as you figure out how to host a wedding reception.

Budget. The first item on your to-do list is to set your budget. A good rule of thumb is to keep your wedding venue and food costs to approximately 18-20% of your budget while allotting 10-15% to photos and/or video, and perhaps 10-12% for vendors and service providers, from your florist to a wedding planner. Of course, you have to budget for invitations, wedding cake, and other reception essentials. And remember to include 5% for those extras that will inevitably pop up.

Find your location early in the planning process. As you begin to Google “venues near me,” “affordable wedding venues,” or “banquet halls near me,” narrow your search to places that can accommodate the number of guests you have in mind and your budget.

Ask each potential reception venue about fees, its contract requirements, and how it can support your vision for your wedding reception. Consider locations convenient to your out-of-town guests.

Maybe you’d like to work in some kind of small (non-wedding) ceremony that celebrates your new lives together. One option is a unity ceremony, also known as a sand ceremony. During unity ceremonies, two people pour sand from separate vessels into a central vessel. It’s a picture of two lives that have come together. If you’d like to try this and are looking for unique unity ceremony ideas, try using sand from a beach you visited together (maybe, if you’ve already had your wedding ceremony, you can use sand from your honeymoon). Or select vessels that are family heirlooms or have meaning to the two of you. You also can select a vessel that belonged to a late loved one you’d like to honor.

Set a date, make a guest list, and choose your venue. When making these decisions, consider the schedules of your most important guests like parents, grandparents, and best friends.

If you’re planning a reception-only wedding, you will need to give careful thought to invitations. If you ask anyone to join you for your ceremony, they should be invited to your reception. But, you’ll also need a list of people you’d like at your reception.

Be clear that the invitation is for a reception, not a ceremony. One way to word it is, “You are invited to a reception in celebration of the marriage of…” Another option is, “Mr. and Mrs. Michael Smith and Mr. and Mrs. James Castle invite you to a reception celebrating the marriage of their children, Elizabeth Ann and Thomas Paul,” on …”

As for your wedding venue, be sure you’re completely up to speed on what the facility offers a reception vs. a ceremony, as well as their catering services, their policies, and their services.

Price, select, and book your vendors. While sticking to your budget is the first consideration when choosing who to work with on your reception, make sure to view or sample prospective vendors’ work. And ask for and follow up with referrals. Word of mouth is often the best judge of quality service. Be sure to get quotes from at least two or three vendors for each needed service.

Send out invitations in a timely manner. Two months before your event is a good timetable to keep to. Another thing to consider here is the wording. Though these invitations will be similar to those that invite people to weddings that include both ceremony and reception, it’s smart to expressly state that you are hosting a reception to celebrate your marriage, just so people know exactly what to expect. We also advise making invitees aware of the dress code, as they may be unsure, particularly if you have a theme.

Decide what you and your honey will wear. Re-wearing your ceremony attire is fine, but the choice is up to you. Whatever the case, make sure your expectations for your guests’ dress attire fit with what you and your spouse are wearing.

Decide whether or not to have a registry/or accept gifts. Some people may fret that it’s rude to expect guests to bring a gift if they’re only invited to the reception, but these fears may be baseless. After all, presents to celebrate a marriage can be given at any time, and, considering you’re likely treating your guests to a meal, drinks, and entertainment, it’s not outside of the bounds of etiquette to share your registry. However, if you still aren’t sure, leave that information off of the invitations and simply tell people if they ask.

Once you’ve made up your mind to hold separate wedding ceremonies and receptions, it’s important to let people know, particularly if they will only be invited to the reception. Explain why you’re making your decision and that you’re thrilled to celebrate with them when the time for the big bash comes. 

However, if someone seems a bit hurt that they’re not invited to both events, stand your ground and reiterate your reasons and why it’s best for everyone involved, then move on. Loved ones will understand, but be sure to make it up to them with a great party!

The Bell Tower on 34th, an intimate wedding venue in Houston, TX, is committed to helping recently engaged couples make their wedding visions a reality.

Our venue, with customizable packages, is a short drive from The Woodlands, TX.

Contact us to discuss holding your reception here.

The Bell Tower on 34th

901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018

(713) 868-2355