Countdown to Christmas: DIY Ornaments

This is a good one for the littles.

You'll need:

clear glass/plastic ornaments

assorted jazzicles, baubles and bits of wonder

paints (I really like the Martha Stewart glass paints)

1.  Remove tops of ornaments. Set tops aside.

2.  Cram in the goodies and doll up the outsides.

4.  Let paint dry.

5. Hang.

6. Regard with holiday wonderment!

Countdown to Christmas: Garland Wreath Tutorial

I've been making these little wreaths for a couple years now and it just dawned on me to publish this tutorial.  They're super cute, super festive, and super easy!




You'll need:

Wreath form (I used an embroidery hoop, but have had the same success with wire and styrofoam as well)
2 lengths of garland (this took 2-9 foot lengths, so use your best judgement)
assorted wreath sprays, jazzicles and other sparkly things
wire
wire cutters
scissors



1.  Wrap it up. Wind the end of your garland through your form and wire to fasten (if you're using a styrofoam form, wrap the end around once and secure with a pin).  I stayed away from using traditional adhesives because I like to swap out garlands and cut down on waste.  Then, wind the garland around the form, bunching from time to time to achieve the desired look (I like a fluffy wreath, so I bunch quite a bit). Wind the other end through the form to finish (fasten with pins for styrofoam).  You'll be finished when the form is completely hidden from view.



2.  Go Full Glitz.  Lay out your embellishments.  Don't be afraid to try a few things out before you commit.  Design your little heart out.  Once you've come up with something you love, lay it out in the desired position on your wreath.


3.  Pin it down.  Secure to wreath with wire.  Floral wires and other small guage wires are ideal because they are both easy to work with and easy to hide.  I came up with two options I loved so I made sure to make them interchangeable.


4. Enjoy!

See...easy and fabulous! 

Macabre Makeup #2:Bee Is For Beauty

Today's tutorial comes from YouTuber, Bee is for Beauty.  Although she's new to me, I became a huge fan after browsing her channel.  It is a treasure trove, y'all.  I noticed she seems to favor easy to find or household products, which is heaven for any budget.  i chose this tutorial because it has that element of ruined beauty I find so appealing in horror movie themes...that I LOVED nip/tuck. Enjoy!



Whether you're looking to boost your Halloween cred or up your cocktail party game, check out the Bee is for Beauty YouTube channel!

Horrorween 2013: Freaky Florals

 

You'll need:
several bunches of silk flowers
spray paint
acrylic top coat
glitter
floral wire/tape-optional
wire cutters
vase
jazzicles/embellishments(I am making jeweled branches, for those you'll need glass beads, branches and hot glue)

Disclaimer: Excuse my photos.  The natural lighting is limited in my house and as such my pictures turned out a little wonky. I'm building some lighting.  If I can manage to get better snappies, I'll replace them...

1.  Separate flowers by type and 'prune' them as you would if you were working with live flowers.  You may need to use your wire cutters to snip apart the factory bunches.  Loosely arrange flowers to plot out your final arrangement, if you haven't already.

2.  Wipe stems and leaves down with a damp paper towel to prepare them for paint.  If the flowers have been sitting in your house for awhile, gently knock the blooms together to shake off excess dust. Let flowers dry fully before painting.

3.  Paint it black.  Or, you know, what ever you choose.  I'm going for a Gothic look this year, so I chose an exaggerated grayscale to play up the creepy elegance. To keep everything tidy, I sprayed one color at a time.  It made arranging easier.

4.  Pour some glitter into a dish or tray.  Once the paint has become tacky, put on your gloves and grab your bloom.  Lightly press the petals into the glitter until you achieve the desired look.  Shake off excess glitter and let flower dry completely.  This is a great place to practice editing.  You can always glitter more flowers, but if you go to gaudy right away, there's no going back.

5.  Spritz dried flowers with acrylic top coat to seal paint and glitter.  This will make the flowers much more durable, which in turn makes them far easier to store.
     To make jeweled branches: spray your branches along with the flowers.  Once dry, set up your glue gun and dump your glass beads into a tray.  Apply glue to the tip of a branch and turn it slowly to even out the hot glue.  Wait about 30 seconds before pressing the glue into the glass beads.  Cover glue with beads and let dry.
 

6.  Once top coat is dry, arrange in your favorite vase and display!

Horrorween 2013: Music To Die For

For me, there is nothing better than a horror movie with an amazing soundtrack.  Music that announces the villain, lulls us into a false sense of security, and mourns the fallen makes these movies what they are.  Parties are no exception.  Setting the mood with the perfect playlist is my favorite part of pulling a celebration together.  There is so much out there, so open up your hearts and your devices for a tidal wave of inspiration.

For those of you that need a little nudge in the right direction, I've put together a new playlist.  This year's list includes some new favorites as well as two of my three favorite pieces of classical music (You got my number one last year, in Mussorgsky's Night on Bald Mountain). 

So, without any more babble from me, I give you the Goldiluxe Halloween Hit List for 2013:

O Fortuna-Carl Orff: This is the opening piece from Orff's masterpiece, Carmina Burana.  Once you hear it, you'll know it instantly.  It is a stirringly amazing piece that is as chilling as it is incredible.
Dead Man's Bones-Dead Man's Bones
This Is Halloween-Nightmare Before Christmas
Headless Horseman-Bing Crosby: Released in 1949, as part of Disney's The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, this little number is perfect for all audiences.
Castin' My Spell-Johnny Otis & Marci Lee
Zombie Dance- The Cramps
Toccata and Fugue in D Minor, BWV 565- Bach: Classic organ fugue.  Amazing.  This dynamic piece has been used in countless movies and TV shows. 
45 Grave-Riboflavin'
House of the Rising Sun-Lauren O'Conell: This cover of the Animals' 1964 hit is slinky, sexy and frightening.  It blew up TV's across the and as part of the AHS: Coven soundtrack. 
Devil's Right Hand-Johnny Cash
Witch Queen of New Orleans- Redbone
 Halloween on the Barbary Coast-The Flaming Lips
Horror Movie-Skyhooks: Check out the video.  1975+Glamour Band+Subject Matter= Cray
Friend of the Devil- Grateful Dead
The Devil Went Down To Georgia-Charlie Daniels
Rebel with the Ghost- Sons and Daughters

Photo credit: Shag dot com

Macabre Makeup #1: Michelle Phan

Watching Halloween makeup tutorials is one of my favorite rainy day activities.  I've seen some really incredible things, so I thought I'd share my favorites with you.  Hopefully, these will give you a little push and through the inspiration you find along the way, you can unleash your inner character! 

First up on the hit list is Michelle Phan.  She's known for putting out quality videos with clear, concise instructions and unique ideas.  I've used several of her tutorials to improve my own makeup application. Since she started releasing videos, Ms. Phan has become quite the dynamo.  I urge you to check out her You Tube Channel and website for details.  It's no wonder our first video is one of hers.

This Zombie Barbie video is my favorite right now, but overall, I think she has some of the best anime and manga tutorials on the internet...and with the rising number of anime, manga and jpop costumes Ive seen in the last few years, I think there's a lot to be learned from Michelle Phan (if it's worth doing, it's worth doing well...).

Now, for the video:

Pretty great, right?  Go check out Michelle Phan, if you're not already familiar with her.

Video property of Michelle Phan.

Horrorween 2013: Your Source For Fright

It's October, y'all!!  It's that precious time of year when mild-mannered Americans go off in search of a healthy dose of terror.  Ah, me. October is, as you know, my favorite month of the year.  As such, we'll be celebrating all month long, right here on Goldiblog!  Get excited!

First up, TV to curl your toes:

1.  31 Days of Halloween: Syfy (10/1-10/31)- From the network that brought us titles like Sharknado, Ghost Shark and Sharktopus, we have the first entry on our list.  Now, say what you will, but I am a HUGE fan of the Syfy network.  Their original movies are bananas.  I think this is a fun channel for movie lovers and especially those that support original, independently made movies.  Yes, it's true that some of them feel more like student films than blockbusters, but for the most part, the stories are unique, the acting is pretty top notch and the whole channel is endearingly nerdy.  The lineup this year is a satisfying mix of Syfy Original Movies, independent films, and titles from Hollywood. I urge you to wade through the questionable reality programs and seek out some fun.  Highlights: The Covenant, Zombie Night (10/26 starring, Darryl Hannah, Anthony Michael Hall and Shirley Jones...I die!!), and Grave Halloween

2.  Fear Fest: AMC (10/14-10/31):  As usual, I am super psyched for this one.  AMC's annual celebration of horror begins with an all day Walking Dead marathon concluding with the Season 4 premier (aww yisss!).  I cannot wait.  As I've said before, this fest is known for showing big, blockbuster movies with some lesser known titles peppered throughout.  You'll definitely run into a few repeats, but set your DVRs, y'all because this year is gonna be pretty spooktacular.  Personally, I'll be focused on catching some titles I'm less familiar with, but will of course tune in to can't miss favorites.  I suggest you do the same.  Highlights: And Now the Screaming Starts (a ghost story set in the 19th Century-a new title for me!!), Candyman (I saw this for the first time at a junior high sleepover), The Cave, Return of the Living Dead, The Howling (easily one of the best werewolf films of all time!).

3. Friday Night Spooklight: TCM (Fridays in October): This year, in place of their Wednesday classic horror movie marathons, TCM will be turning their year-round feature Friday Night Spotlight into the aptly named Friday Night Spooklight (extra points for cuteness!).  Hosted by Bill Hader, TCM will show 16 classic thrillers, Friday nights in October (starting at 8:00p EST).  I love, love LOVE TCM and am super excited to grab some popcorn, turn off the iPad and settle in for some old school chills.  Highlights: Dementia 13, A Bucket of Blood, Night of the Living Dead (the movie that started it all!), Whatever Happened to Baby Jane (this is a classic thriller starring Bette Davis and Joan Crawford-Fun Fact: Modern day starlet spats had nothing on these ladies. Their real-life feud propelled this movie to box office success amid swirling rumors of on set antics).

4.  Star of the Month: Vincent Price- TCM (Thursdays in October): Each month, TCM chooses an actor for a month long look at their filmography.  This month, the star is none other than Vincent Price.  Vincent Price (1911-1993) was born into St. Louis high society and grew up to become a Yale educated Art History/English major.  His posh voice and good looks may have served him well in the industry but it was his talent and magnetic charm that solidified his iconic status as a horror film star.  He has starred in some of my favorite films, and TCM is showing 35 of the best.  Highlights: House of Wax, Theater of Blood, Story of Mankind

 5. American Horror Story: Coven- FX (Wednesdays, beginning 10/9 @ 10:00p EST): OK, I am freaking out about this y'all!  In my opinion, the explosive series from Ryan Murphy is one of the best in recent history and I am dying for the season 3 premier.  The ad campaign is captivating, the cast is superb and the subject matter is killah!  Coven takes place during two time periods in New Orleans.  That is all I'm going to tell you.  Besides, the entirety of the horrosphere is ablaze with AHS:Coven buzz, not to mention the official trailer dropped last week.  So, if you want to know more, it's out there.  This is my favorite teaser for the show:

There you have it, dolls!  I hope this gets you thinking about hosting your own Fright Fest!  Be careful out there!

Eleganza Alert: Paolo Sebastian!

I am OBSESSED with Paolo Sebastian.  I stumbled upon this designer somewhat recently and upon discovery, I devoured every photo I could find. So far, this is my favorite:

Isn't this just the dreamiest?!  From the website:

    At just twenty three, Vasileff’s achievements include featuring at London Fashion Week 2010 and graduating from Milan’s Europeo Istituto di Design. A ground-breaking show at Sydney’s 2012 Fashion Palette launched the label into the international sphere.

I also found these words about the signature Paolo Sebastian look:

Classic designs reminiscent of old Hollywood glamour exude timeless elegance, paired with a contemporary edge. Often featuring impeccably tailored boning and the tiniest of hand sewn floral appliques, Paolo Sebastian creations encapsulate both the boldness of high fashion and the delicate innocence of beauty.

Le sigh.  Sounds wonderful, doesn't it?  Take a spin through the website, won't you?

Photo credit: Paolo Sebastian via Bride Guide

Eleganza Alert: Carolina Herrera!

Get a load of this, y'all!

 

Carolina Herrera.  Silk-devore. I love the color, the print, the cut, you name it.  This is a total '10' for me.  I'll admit, at $4290, it's a bit pricey, but this is one dress for which I could justify a splurge.  Ah. Mah. Zing. 

Photo Credit: moda operandi dot com via carolina herrera

Designer Love: Amanda Wakeley

I found something awesome, you guys!!  I stumbled upon Amanda Wakeley's website somewhere in the avalanche of e-mails I swept out of my inbox this weekend.  I let my fingers do the walking and hopped on over to her site.  I was not disappointed.  So much beauty!  I thought you might like to see what I found.

British designer, Amanda Wakeley launched her namesake line in 1990.  Since then, she's spent her time making a splash in the womensware and bridal world. 

From the website: 

Amanda intuitively started designing clothes based on a personal passion to create utterly beautiful clothes that women love to wear. Her look is calculatedly understated but alluring. The Amanda Wakeley woman is ageless – she has an attitude to dressing rather than being a specific age.  She wears the clothes because they are sexy yet not overt…. they are body enhancing yet comfortable…. they are relevant yet appropriate to her lifestyle…. she has an enviable ease.

I love that description of the Amanda Wakeley woman.  She sounds lovely, doesn't she?

These are three of my favorite looks from Amanda Wakeley's Morocco Lookbook:

1.   AW136.  A loverly halter dress.  The black silk satin halter adds an edge to this breezy silhouette.  The pintucked detailing on the bust is to die for!

2.  AW137.  For me, this was love at first sight.  That draped train is a killah. 

3.  AW142.  My favorite thing about this gown is the beading at the neck and waist.  I would love to see this at a lake house.  Can you imagine, the sun, the sand, the rolling waves.  Ah, glammah! 

Although her bridal line is amazing, Amanda Wakeley is no one trick pony, folks.  Check out her website for the latest in accessories (the metallic Poppy purse, is mah wants!) and womensware (yowza!!).

photo credit: all photos belong to amanda wakeley dot com, unless otherwise specified

Destination Dazzling (Part Two)

Let's continue with Part Two of Destination Dazzling!  Bring on the beauty!

Beachy Baubles:  Who doesn't love a little sparkle?  The right jazzicle can spice up your look without weighing you down or overpowering the scene you and Mother Nature have created.  Look for pieces that pick up the colors of your surroundings.  Bright, tropical colors are killah against  the creamy tones of sand and skin.  Here's what I'm craving right now:

This Aquamarine Necklace from Uncovet is simple and sophisticated.  I'm also loving the $49 price tag.  A little sparkle that won't break the bank.

This is the enchanting Reflecting Pools Necklace from Ranjana Khan for BHLDN.  It's a bit pricey, coming in at $600, but the handmade mother of pearl stunner is worth the splurge.

Another cutie from Uncovet: Spiked Punch Earrings!  I just think these are adorable!  A perfect pop of color!  You can pick up a pair at Uncovet for $39.

Hello, nurse!  I am dying for these Large Feather Plume bangles from Sequin.  They're hinged, which I think is especially nice for warmer climates and are a great way to pull in tropical color!  The teal one is my favorite!

Hair Affair:  So, unless you plan to have a team of twenty following you around, get used to the idea that tropical weather may anger your hair.  It's okay.  It happens to (almost) everyone.  However, the answer will NOT be found in dousing your tresses in sticky, harmful (to both you and to the enviro) products.  Beachy waves, dreamy updos, and airy chignons will be aces in your locale.  Consider anchoring pesky flyaways with embellished pins or work them into braids.

Snail braids!  Cute, playful, and it gets your hair off your neck, which can be invaluable for an outdoor, tropical wedding.  J'adore The Beauty Department! This place is lousy with amazing tutorials!  Check it out!

Can we just talk about braids for a minute?  Suh.  Kyoot.  Suh.  Easy.  I would love this even more if it was a waterfall braid.  Also, more waves.  It's perfect for the bohemian beach bride!

The messy bun is such a lifesaver, y'all!  Easy to do, easy to maintain, and easy to dress up.  Just throw a jeweled clip or a chic little fascinator in there and voila!  Perfection!  I found this particular one while browsing Brunch at Saks.  Supa cute blog!

I hope this has helped you get the wheels turning.  There is so much greatness out there, I encourage you to get lost in it for awhile and see what you come up with!  You can't go wrong....well, I'm sure you could, but if I know my dolls, then we are in for one amazing summah! 

Destination Dazzling! (Part One)

There's something so magical about tropical, seaside affairs, isn't there?  The magnificently blue skies, the soothing sounds of rolling water, the birds singing happily in swaying palm trees....le sigh.  All that atmosphere makes us wish that, even for a moment, our beauty could radiate as flawlessly as that of Mother Nature.  Well, with a destination wedding we are given that chance.

Today, let's take a peek at what's out there, shall we?

First up: Dresses! Season, location, and venue can and should inform your choice, here. The best advice I have is this: Consider lightweight, breathable fabrics that complement your frame and can withstand travel with minimal difficulty.  You might let yourself be drawn to understated elegance that won't detract from the natural beauty of your location.  Although, a little glamour never killed anyone...so keep that in mind.  My of the moment loves:

Say 'hello!' to Ursula!  Gorg, right?  At $595 (a MIRACLE at J. Crew), this little J. Crew number is perfect for the beach.  I LOVE the length of cotton cord that forms the halter.  Suh. Kyoot.

We return to BHLDN for this stunner from James Coviello.  The Charlene Maxi is the right mix of drama and demure.  Go.  Take a look at the back.  I'll wait.  Pretty great, right?  The price tag is a shocker at only $650.

Also from BHLDN (I know...I could go on and on!) is this sweet little Ribboned Silk Gown.  Designed specifically for BHLDN, this Ve Et Vien gown is sure to thrill at your seaside nuptials.  I'd pair with either a sash or statement necklace for full effect (Oh! The editors agree with me!).  It's a little pricier, coming in at $1600, but well worth the coin, if you ask me.

For the Tootsies:  A friend of mine got hitched on sand and had this to say, "I should've worn shoes!  My poor feet were scorched by the end of the ceremony."  She went on to say that while she bought the dreamiest little sandals for din din and dancing, she wished she'd had some daytime protection. Take from that what you will.  I for one am living for these beachy finds:

Maroma Sandal, by Heiress. BHLDN exclusive, y'all.  Handmade in India.  I die. A friggin' steal at $170

The Kira sandal from J. Crew is kill. ing. me.  Made in Italy and sporting a $138 pricetag...forgeddaboudit!

Vince Camuto's Macalia is another Perfect 10, for me.  At $78.95, these are the perfect mix of passion and pragmatism.  These Vince Camuto darlings are also available in black and are currently in my shopping cart...I'm a Vince Camuto junkie, what can I say?

Whew!  That's a lot of glamma! Tune in tomorrow because I'll be sharing more dazzling selections for your destination celebration!

You Asked For It: Destination Roundup 1

Cute bird friend I made at the beach...

It seems as though I awakened the beast with my last post about destination weddings.  You lovelies have been peppering my inbox with your insightful questions and I thought a roundup might be a good idea.  

How do I get my dress there unharmed?
You have a few options.  First, you can make the arrangements with your airline ahead of time.  Just ring them and explain your situation clearly and thoroughly.  I guarantee you won’t be the first bride to ask that question.  Or, if your dress fits carry-on requirements, take it with you.  First class cabins often have ‘garment closets’ that passengers can use to store coats…you could ask to use one of those. If these options are less than ideal, ship your dress to your destination prior to your arrival.  Again, you’ll need to call your resort and make arrangements.  You should ship your dress in a large box wrapped in tissue paper to help the dress hold its shape.  Pay for insurance and if you can, get a confirmation from the resort.  It will be your job to follow up…don’t put it on resort staff to do your work for you.  A word of advice: It will be expensive to ship your dress properly.  Do not cut corners to save money.  This is NOT the ideal place to look for savings.  Finally, whichever method you choose, make an appointment to have your dress steamed when you arrive.

Any tips for dealing with stress before the big day?
Yes.  First, don’t take your feelings out on your bridal party or resort staff.  Deal with the situation yourself and do it calmly and politely.  Being belligerent or rude will not solve anything and will more than likely escalate the situation.   If you just simply can’t deal, send a neutral party with a clear head and poise under pressure on your behalf.  Either way, take a minute to breathe, count to ten, do a quick calming exercise and then handle your biz like a boss.  

You mentioned family on the Honeymoon and now I’m freaking out.  I love my fam, but don’t want to be smothered by them the whole time…what should I do?
You can start by not assuming that everyone will want to spend every waking moment with you.  These are adults, they’ve attended weddings before.  Your privacy is implied.  But, yes, if you need to set boundaries, set them.  However, you should do this tactfully (after all the support and love, I’d hate to see feelings hurt) and gently.  It may sound cliché, but rehearse what you’re going to say BEFORE something asinine comes spilling out your cake hole.  Try something like: We’re so grateful for everything you’ve done for us and we’re so glad you’ll be joining us, but we’re hoping to spend some quality time alone after this is all over.  We can’t wait to start our lives together and this Honeymoon is going to be such a great way to begin! Never underestimate the power of brevity.  Also, let me say this: if you’re going to set boundaries, set the same ones for everyone. 

A reminder to stay hydrated and relaxed!

When should our invites go out?
Okay.  This is an easy one.  You should prepare to send out Save the Dates 1O-12 months ahead of time.  Include the date (obvi) and the location.  This will prepare your guests for what’s coming and they can begin to browse flights and resort info.  Please include this line on your save the dates: Formal invitation to follow. It is also appropriate to include a card with a link to your wedding website, should you have one.  Your invite should follow 4-6 months prior to the wedding.  In it, you can include more resort info, airport code, travel advice, itinerary, etc.  Your goal is to make this as smooth and easy for guests as possible.

Do we need to plan things for guests to do?  Like what about a rehearsal dinner or a party to welcome everyone?
I think it’s nice to make guests feel special.  Especially since they’ve traveled so far afield.  A little get together is a great way for everyone to get to know each other.  That vibe can really enhance the entire experience.  Maybe you could make a rezzie at the restaurant in the resort and just be together.  Good food, great drinks and lots of conversation…paradise, indeed!  Overall though, I don’t think tons of activities are necessary.

Wow!  I think we have enough content for a little series, don’t you?  Tomorrow, I’ll answer more questions and on Monday, let’s talk apparel…

You Asked For It: Destination Dilema

Hello G!

 You’ve been gone a long time.  Dislike.  Here’s my question:
The dude and I are considering a destination wedding at a resort Thailand.  We don't know what to do, we're really 50/50 at this point.  Can you give us your opinion?  I know you’ll be honest. 

Okay…well.  First, I have been gone awhile.  It’s a story for another post.  I promise I’ll explain.  Thanks for reading, though.  You have NO idea how much I love you all.  

Ooh, Thailand!  I die!  That’s definitely on my bucket list.  Congrats on your engagement!

On the whole, I don’t mind destination weddings.  I really don’t.  They’re the perfect option for a lot of couples.  In fact, I might be attending one in 2014.  That said, they are not without drawbacks.  In order to keep this concise, I’ll run through a few pros and cons without going into lengthy detail.  Sound good? 

Pros:
No Muss, No Fuss
Destination weddings are great in that choosing one can mean dumping a lot of the stress that often accompanies the planning process, especially if you choose a resort setting.  Often, the whole shebang is handled by resort staff and all the couple has to do is show up.

Make A Day of It
 It also provides a chance for a built in vacation.  Many couples take this opportunity to honeymoon.  Hey, you’re in a beautiful part of the world and you just got hitched?  Why go anywhere else?  It  also isn’t unheard of for guests to arrive a few days early or stay a few days after to really make crossing the world worthwhile. 

Less Is More
Destination weddings can also assist in limiting the number of guests involved, preserving the intimacy of the occasion. Less people, less hassle, you know.  Couples can also expect to spend time with guests who did make the trek in a relaxed setting.  It’s nice not to be pulled in a thousand directions on your wedding day.

Walking Around Money
 If well executed, the overall cost can be a fraction of a hometown soiree.  Resorts often have standard packages designed to fit a range of budgets.  Read the fine print to see what’s included and you could stand to save some serious dough.

It’s In the Mail
Destination weddings have produced some of the cutest invitation suites I’ve ever seen.  

 Cons:
Cookie Cutter
While dumping the stress and responsibility of planning a wedding, a lot of couples also give up the opportunity to make their wedding their own.  Many couples miss the personal touches that can make a more traditional wedding unforgettable.  

Dirty Money
Your wedding will not be affordable for your guests.  The reason so many resorts can afford to give you such amazing deals is because they are working under the assumption that your guests will be staying with them.  So, when you factor in airfare, accommodations, passports, gifts, and wedding related activities…well, your amazing getaway may come at the expense of your guests.

Right In the Heart
While you won’t be dealing with the demands of an extended guest list, you should prepare yourself for the absence of people you hold close to your heart.  You may lose some to job demands and those with pregnancies or small children may have to opt out of schlepping halfway ‘round the world. Additionally, older guests may not be able to travel that far from home.  All of this could lead to some seriously hurt feelings if not dealt with appropriately.

Red Tape
The logistics of getting married in a place you do not call home can be daunting.  Getting a marriage license in another country can be a bit nightmarish as you will be subject to the laws of that country.  If you have to hoe this row alone, you could be setting yourself up for disaster.  

Rain On My Parade
With your family and friends in the same time zone, you may have trouble getting much needed alone time.  The relaxed atmosphere of a destination wedding can also lead to relaxed boundaries.  You may find your parents and friends are on your honeymoon right along side you.  

So..that’s my two cents.  I really do think they can be wonderful!  The truth is that everything in life comes with complications.  No decision can be made without considering the cost.  Ultimately though, no matter what you choose it will be perfect!  It will be everything you dreamed it could be because it's what YOU chose.  Good luck, doll.

Kisses,

E