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    Before you stress about your two left feet, it’s important to remember that wedding dance floor etiquette is not about knowing how to perfectly ace the waltz or foxtrot. Simply put, it’s about knowing when you can hit the floor to bust a move. Have a look at the order of dances at a wedding.

     

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    We’re over the moon? Classical first-dance under a hundred fireworks is definitely something out-of-dreams?

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    Assuming it’s a traditional wedding with the ‘usual’ dance order here’s how it goes:

    Obviously the newly wed couple will take to the floor first. They will share their first dance together as a married couple. It is usually quite a sweet and romantic moment. They choose a special song that means something to them along with a dance.

    Next the bride will dance with her father. It can be quite emotional so get the tissues ready!

     

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    Daddy dance with me I want you to see the woman I’ve become. Daddy don’t let go I want you to know I’ll always need your love. Today I became his wife But I’ll be your baby girl for life. ~Krystal Keith There’s something about parent dances that make me teary-eyed. I just always love those intimate moments that you spend as a married person dancing with the person who has loved and supported you from the beginning. That’s my #weddingadvice for Thursday: make sure that you get to spend some time with the people who mean the most to you! Photo by: @jamieapratt #wedding #weddinginspo #advice #tip #tennesseewedding #tennessee #knoxville #knoxrocks #865life #tennesseeweddingplanner #southernwedding #southernbride #knoxvillewedding #outdoorwedding #parent #parents #parentdance #father #fatheranddaughter #fatherdaughterdance

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    Then the mother of the bride will dance with the groom followed by the brides parents, who will take to the floor for a spin or two.

    The groom will sway away with his own mother thereafter.

    His parents can then share a moment and then finally the guests can join in and shake a leg.

    It’s important to note that this order can be changed and does not have to be followed. Edit it how you want to suit you and your partners desires.

    If you’re a guest just remember not to step on the dance floor when it’s the couple’s first dance. Keep an eye out in case you recognise the above mentioned order and when you get the go ahead show them what your two left feet are made of!

     

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    #weddingdance #polishgirl #polishboy #married #wesele #hejwesele z @amaszorzeszki ? #annaisbridal #sukniaslubna #princessdress #summervibes

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    Picture: Pexels

    Who said garlands were just for the table? Take your decor to new heights with greenery installations – one of our favourite trends at the moment. Normally decor is focused on eye-level, but what about accessorising the higher spaces with lush greens as well. You can change the whole feel of the space with something as simple (and budget-friendly) as leaves and vines. Take a look:

     

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    Feeling a little under the weather after spending last week up a slippery ladder hanging onto a tipi pole with rain pouring down my face, the immune system has taken a bit of a hit. Then @agnes.black sends me this beauty and suddenly everything seems more than OK! Just wow ? I’ll be back on emails tomorrow after some much needed R&R, thanks for your patience everyone! @fivefourstudios @hollyrussell_1 @innercityweddings @hipswinguk @pinkcocoa_sarah #hangingfoliage #hangingflowers #foliagewedding #hanginggreenery #floralinstallation #greenerywedding #suspendedgreenery #suspendedfoliage #coolbride #tablerunner #floraldecor #statementflowers #tablegreenery #underthefloralspell #flowerstyle #manchesterflorist #cheshireflorist #overheadfoliage #weddingflowers #modernbride #alternativeflowers #topteble #weddingreception #spanishmoss #weddingdecor #floralstyling #manchesterweddingflowers #cascadingflowers #floralart

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    One of the best things about incorporating greenery into your decor, is the affordability. It’s a budget-friendly ‘floral’ option and you can even do it yourself! You only need to purchase the greenery, wire or fixtures, and do some research on how to build it.

    You can buy wire, a floral hoop and a variety of greenery, and easily create a heavenly leafy green chandelier. It comes down to your entwining skills and a whole lot of securing. Alternatively, your florist will be able to make, or help you with, bigger projects. Think big! High ceilings + a big trellis = winner combo!

     

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    This magical setting is giving us ALL of the heart eyes! ? Beautiful work by @weddingconceptsusa @okasie @somethingdifferentza ?⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ? @hewittwrightphotographer⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #weddinglighting #pendantlighting #industrialwedding #organicwedding #modernwedding #weddinginstallation #weddingstyling #weddingstylist #weddingtables #weddingreception #weddingreceptioninspiration #instawed #weddingflowers #hangingfoliage #hanginggreenery #hanginglights #weddingideas #weddingstylingideas #uniquewedding #weddingreceptionideas #diywedding #weddinginspo #gettingmarried #pinterestwedding

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    However, the option is yours. You can opt for a simplistic greenery style or a fuller look. How? Keep greenery limited to give a more delicate, fresh appearance or use larger volumes for that fairytale-like lush look.

    If you’d prefer not to make something from scratch, you can always embellish existing fixtures as well, or incorporate it into the rest of your flowers to add depth and fullness.

    This decor option is great if you love the idea and beauty of the outdoors, but prefer to not actually host your wedding outside. Either way, it’s a beautiful addition to just about any theme.

    Image: Wesley Vorster Photography

    The first dance is daunting, to say the least, especially if you and your partner aren’t big on the dance front. Instead of worrying about showing off your two left feet, we’ve rounded up some of Cape Town’s finest studios where you can fine-tune your best ballroom moves:

    1.Phoenix Dance Company

    Based in Belville, Cape Town, this dance studio offers a wide variety of dance classes including lessons on how to perfect your first dance. No previous dance experience is required. If you and your partner can’t decide on a song, they can also help you pick the perfect tune. They also offer classes for the father-daughter dance, bridal party and parents.

    2. The John Hamman School of Ballroom Dance

    Based in Newlands, Cape Town, here you’ll feel confident as they teach you all the right moves. They offer quick classes which means you won’t have to spend too much time learning your first dance.

    3. Enerchi Dance

    Based in Claremont, Cape Town. They offer a variety of packages to choose from, and can tailor each dance to suit every couple’s needs. Enerchi Dance also customises your dance according to the size of your dance floor.

    4. Paradiso Academy

    Based in Zonnebloem, Cape Town. Forget the stress and panic involved with wedding planning and have a little fun while learning your first dance or father-daughter dance. Again, no experience required!

    5. Jacques Carstens Dance Studio

    Based in Belville, Cape Town. This dance studio will be there to help you every (dance) step of the way, with a hefty side of fun.

    Image: Unsplash

     

    Weddings are beautiful, joy-filled days to celebrate love. However, they can also be expensive and overwhelming. But what if your special day could be fully planned and executed for you in just two hours and at just a fraction of the cost?

    Pop Up Weddings SA is a venture offering couples all the fun of a traditional ceremony in just 2 hours, minus the stress and high prices.  Their team of wedding planners do it all for you: planning, sourcing, and setting up. All you have to do is show up. Four couples a day share a pre-determined venue in 2-hour slots per ceremony. Each Pop Up has a specific theme devised and planned by the wedding team. For example, a past pop up followed an Urban Adventure theme.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B0OiA_9DXdw/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

     

    Up to 15 guests can be invited, making this a micro wedding. A professional photographer captures your perfect day throughout and couples receive 150-200 professionally edited photos. The loved-up pair also receive a personalised floral bouquet and boutonnière, mini wedding cake and a bottle of bubbly (or non-alcoholic substitute).

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BxMC1bJAG8k/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BvOrg7AgBjh/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    While the idea of a pop up wedding might not be for everyone, there are many this concept is well suited to.  It works well for those with a small budget and it’s great for couples wanting to be different. It’s also ideal for people feeling overwhelmed by the pressure of planning an entire wedding themselves. Pairs who don’t want a big do can also benefit from this as it’s basically the fancier version of a home affairs wedding.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BvRKJl3AKPf/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    For more information please visit www.popupweddingsa.co.za.

    Image: Unsplash

    Lavender truly is a versatile little bloom. Used to calm and soothe you before bedtime, fill up your garden with sweet scents and pastel colours, or, in your wedding florals. Although it’s not a common first choice when picking blooms for your bouquet, table or installations, it really should be. Here are a few clever ways on how to incorporate lavender into your special day:

    Confetti

    It’s hardy enough to dry without breaking, and won’t litter the environment like plastic and glitter will.

     

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    Lavender – the flower of devotion ?⠀ ⠀ Thank you to the florists and clients who reached out this past year to include some of my lavender as part of their wedding celebrations & decor. Creating a wedding collection as part of my lavender line has been in the books even before we had a lavender in the ground. Now that we have an established crop, my plan for 2020 is to offer couples a collection that includes lavender wedding toss, lavender bouquets, lavender boutonnières, lavender aisle markers, lavender place settings & centerpieces, and of course bunches of lavender for the DIY-er ?.⠀ ⠀ I want to hear from you! ? Brides, Grooms, Florists, Event Planners, and Lavender Lovers….let me know what you want to see! Please share your ideas below?or send me a note✍️! If you are looking for some inspiration, head over ? to my Lavender Wedding Board on Pinterest to see some of my favourite picks. ? Link in bio ?. _ _ _ #lavenderwedding #lavendertoss #lavenderweddingtheme #lavenderweddingflowers #weddingdecorideas #lavenderlove #countrywedding #countryweddings #pembylife #seatoskywedding #whistlerwedding #squamishwedding #rockymountainbride #weddinginthemountains #weddinginthemeadow #themeaningofflowers #fromthegardenshed

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    Bouquet or bridesmaids’ bouquets

    If you’re going for a more dainty, rustic type of aesthetic, lavender is the perfect pick for a long-lasting and budget-friendly addition, or to use alone.

     

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    Congratulations Carrie, you are a beautiful bride! ?: @klaarphotography

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    Add it to your invitation or stationary

    A single sprig of lavender attached to your invitations or escort cards will last longer than most flowers and will subtly scent the paper as well.

    Boutonnieres

    Small and detailed flowers work best for boutonnieres to provide that extra bit of detail to the groom or groomsmen’s ensembles.

     

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    Well, we are moved in! Every muscle hurts, but I’m loving the new place so far! ?❤️ #lavenderboutonniere

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    In your altar or chuppah

    It’s whimsical, a little wild and undeniably romantic. And because you need larger amounts of flowers to fill up the space, lavender offers a wallet-friendly alternative to more expensive flowers.

    Use it in your hair

    Instead of incorporating flowers that are bound to wilt and break off, pin small pieces of lavender sprigs and young blooms to your flower crown, in your updo or in your plait.

     

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    Our dried Lavender hair comb is a beautiful accent for any bride.

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    Decorate your lounge areas and tables

    Take small vases or pots and place bunches of lavender everywhere your guests will be lounging or sitting, perfect for an al fresco setting with the added bonus of being a natural insect repellent. Alternatively, place bunches of fresh lavender along the centre of your tables instead of traditional runners.

    Tie it to your chairs

    Small bunches of lavender tied to your seating area or along your aisle make for a fragrant sillage that will envelop while your guests are seated.

     

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    Bundles of rosemary and lavender to accent the ceremony aisle ~ best smelling aisle!

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    Add it to your dessert table or cocktails

    Food-grade lavender sprigs add a floral and slightly sweet flavour to your cake, tiny desserts, and even your cocktails and G&Ts.

    Give individual plants or seeds as favours

    A gift that keeps on giving is the ultimate gift. Give your guests seed pods or a small lavender plant to take home with them, plant and eventually harvest.

     

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    Lavender season #lavender #lavenderseason #lavenderfavors #weddingfavors #marturii #nunta #botez #marturiinunta #marturiibotez

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    Image: Unsplash

    Be careful of what you put out on social media – it’s forever. Videos that grab people’s attention for various reasons often end up going viral. A recent video of a Nigerian bride went viral when it showed her walking away from her own wedding.

    The woman can be seen making her way down the aisle with her father by her side. She then stops and you can see her shaking her head. The father seems to be attempting to comfort her. The (almost) bride-to-be kneels down says something to her father, gets up and leaves. The next angle shows her flipping the veil over her face with bouquet in hand.

    Images: Unsplash

    The Jewish religion has been around for over 3 000 years and there are an estimated 70 000 people living in South Africa that practice the Judaism. Various traditions and rituals are performed during the union of a couple, but what exactly happens at a traditional Jewish wedding?

    Pre wedding

    Kabbalat Panim

    – This is when the soon-to-be wed couple refrain from seeing each other for one whole week before the wedding. By doing so excitement is created between the couple and they are overjoyed once they lay their eyes on each other again.

    Fasting

    – The happy couple will fast on their big day. It is viewed as being similar to the fast on Yom Kippur. After the ceremony the couple will share their first meal together and break their fast.

    Bedeken

    – The groom makes sure the woman he is about to marry is his partner. Once he sets eyes upon her, he proceeds to remove the veil over her face. The veil is a sign of modesty and symbolises that their love is not based on physical appearance but on what’s on inside. This tradition stems back to biblical times when Jacob was tricked into marrying his partner’s sister. The trickery took place because she wore a veil.

    Ketubah

    – This document details the grooms responsibilities to his partner. It’s a promise of their love and what’s to come. The love birds will sit side by side and overlook their unifying document. It is then signed by both of them. Two people should be present to witness this promise and commitment.

    Wedding

    Chuppah

    – As the union begins the groom will make his way down the aisle with both parents at his side. The bride then follows with her parents. The couple make their way to the Chuppah which is basically like a canopy. The Chuppah needs to have four corners and be covered by a roof. The Chuppah is a symbol of the new home the married couple will build together.

    Circle

    – This tradition requires the bride to circle her partner seven times. The custom began because it was believed to create a protection for the partner.

    Sheva B’rachot

    – This means seven blessings. It’s derived from ancient teachings and can be recited in Hebrew or English. The blessings translate to celebration, power of love and the joy of this union. It will usually be recited over a cup of wine and then the couple will sip from a cup to seal the blessing.

    Breaking the glass

    – The nuptials are then concluded with the man standing on a glass in a cloth bag. It stands for the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem. Basically meaning that even in most joyous occasions you must not forget all the pain in the world. Everyone then shouts Mazel Tov! Which means congratulations or good luck.

     

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    Lindsay & Cory’s magical wedding was featured on the @smashingtheglass wedding blog today and we’re super happy to see such a stunning event getting the attention it deserves! It was a pleasure working with this all-star team of vendors to make beautiful things happen. ____ Posted @withrepost • @smashingtheglass ?? @lindsayrgross⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ?? @Cgmoney ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ? @malomanstudios⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ? @erichiresweddings⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ? @ketubahdotcom #STGVendor⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ? @karmag.events⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ? @vizcaya_museum⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ? @verawanggang⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ? @manoloblahnikhq⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ? @juliarohdedesigns ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ? @tropics.entertainment ? @thierryisambert ? @celebrationsbykathy ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

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    Post ceremony

    Yichud

    – This tradition sees the newly wed couple reflect on their recent marriage. They will go to a secluded spot and spend a few minutes alone together. They are able to bond and share this special time together without any disturbances to focus on each other. Their attention is completely on each other.

     

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    These two really brought the sunshine. Smiles from start to finish and we ? it

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    Image: Wesley Vorster Photography

    After binging the wedding movie watch list there are a few wedding dresses we just simply can’t forget. Even though none of the marriages are real, we can’t help but fall in love with these nuptial gowns. The list is endless, but have a look at a few of our favourites:

    Funny Face (1957)

    Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire star in this musical romantic comedy. Audrey wore a Givenchy dropped-waist gown. It consisted of a tight bodice and full skirt.

    The Sound of Music (1965)

    This classic film followed a postulant that eventually becomes a governess for a family of seven children and a widowed naval captain. Julie Andrews wore a beautiful A-line dress consisting of a V-neck and button-up bodice.

     

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    Wedding ?

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    Ever After (1998)

    This movie was inspired by the Cinderella fairytale. Drew Barrymore wears a Renaissance inspired wedding dress. It featured a pair of wings, beaded bodice, detailed sleeves and is often referred to as the ‘breathe gown’.


    Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones (2002)

    Natalie Portman starred as Padmé Amidala in the Star Wars prequels. When she wed Anakin Skywalker she wore a dress made by film costumer designer Trisha Biggar. The gown was very intricate and featured a lot of beads, pearls and lace detail.


    Sex and the City (2008)

    Set after the series that took place from 1998-2004, the movie sees Sarah Jessica Parker finally marrying Mr Big. Unfortunately, the wedding didn’t happen, but Carrie still looked as fashionable as always in her Vivienne Westwood dress.

    The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1 (2011)

    After three movies and the constant frustration of the famous Twilight love triangle, Bella finally chose Edward. Kristen Stewart looked beautiful in her simple and elegant Carolina Herrera gown. The back of the dress consisted of intricate lace and an open back cut.

     

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    #thetwilightsagabreakingdaw #twilightwedding#bellasweddingdress #foreveralways

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    Image: Pexels

    When it comes to ‘business in the front and party at the back’, wedding dresses with gorgeous back detail have got it down.

    Whether you’re looking for something simple, modern or over the top, we’ve got all the (local!) inspiration you need for your dream wedding dress right here:

    Elbeth Gillis

    Robyn Roberts

     

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    Introducing: ✨ P E R L A ✨ Designed to appeal to the modern, relaxed bride who is looking for something a little bit different but still wants to feel comfortable on her wedding day. The geometric lace used for Perla’s bodice is really unique and we have a limited amount available. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Perla is part of our NEW Macao collection and is available to try on in our studio now ✨ by appointment only, visit www.robynroberts.co.za ✨ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #wedressdreams ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Can we also just take a moment to give some love to @nicola_katie who photographed our most recent shoot? She captured the delicacy of our dresses so beautifully and with such an artistic eye. We love your work, Nicola!

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    Anna Georgina

    Lena Lisa

    Cindy Bam

     

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    #cindybambride “I felt so amazing in my dress and loved working with you.” Laura

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    Vagabond

    Image: Pritti by Migneon Marais (model wearing Cindy Bam)

    The wedding reception normally involves speeches, food, drinks, dancing and laughter. For most people, drinks are a crucial social element a party cannot be without, but not everyone enjoys an alcoholic beverage. So what can you do to spice up your non-alcoholic options? We’ve got the solution:

    Presentation

    Before thinking about anything else, considering how you’d like to present your drinks is important. Serve up your non-alcoholic beverages with style by using snazzy straws (eco-friendly please), adding fruity or leafy finishings and serving them in elegant or stylish glasses. If you’re not wanting to make individual drinks then serve your drinks, such as refreshing lemonade or home-made ice tea, in beautiful glass beverage dispensers. The way you display things makes a big impact.


    Mocktails

    If you have a favourite cocktail, then change it up to exclude the alcohol element. This way you can have tasty alternatives that are still on par with the rest of the drink options. Making your own mix is another great idea and it could be your wedding’s signature mocktail. Creating a special drink is definitely a step up than just serving juice or water, while remaining inclusive of all your guests.

     

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    Mocktails anyone? Your signature drink should reflect the vibe your event exerts. Visit our Bohemian-Inspired 16th Birthday Party Blog to discover our recipes for “Flower Child” and “The Wanderer”. pc: @colljeffers https://www.laurenashleystudio.com/blog/https/wwwlaurenashleystudiocom/blog/2019/06/17/a-bohemain-inspired-16th-birthday-party ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⁠ #homemadecocktails #cocktails #mocktails #pink #pinkcocktails #pinkmocktails #wedding #weddings #weddingdrink #weddingdrinks #weddingcocktails #weddingmocktails #pinkweddingcocktails #pinkweddingmocktails #boho #outdoor #rustic #bohowedding #outdoorwedding #rusticwedding #weddinginspiration #bohemianinspired #thewanderer #flowerchild #signaturedrinks #sweet16birthdayparty #partyfavors #weddingfavors #weddingshowergifts #curatedgiftboxes

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    Poppin’ Bottles

    There’s nothing wrong with serving non-alcoholic beers, wine and champagne. Chances are, people may not even notice, especially if it’s good quality, and they’ll thank you when they wake up fresh as a daisy the next day.

    Plain and simple

    Serve your cooldrinks in their original glass bottles for a retro touch.

    Childish Delight

    Most people think weddings need to have alcohol or more ‘mature’ drinks, but who doesn’t love a great chocolate milkshake? Opt for a few milkshake options and hot chocolate to bring out the kid in everyone!

    Image: Unsplash