Swan Manor: Offering Organized Simplicity for Weddings

Once your wedding venue is secure, you can start implementing the details that will make your day shine. Having an outline of how you and your future spouse see the day unfolding will help everyone stay on board. Going with the flow is definitely important; however, you might inadvertently miss out on some key items if you have no schedule to adhere to.

Communicate with Staff and Guests

DIY signs and banner inspiration are all over the internet. As is stationary vendors who are happy to take your order and deliver your goods. Announcing your intentions and time frames can help your reception stay on track and keep things more organized. Simple ways to let your guests help you by being able to help themselves are as follows:

• Washroom Signs
• Table Place Card Settings
• Photo-booth/Picture area
• Garden Signs
• Parking locations
• Smoking Terrace
• Bar and Food Service
• Gift Table
• Photo Opportunities

Contact each individual vendor – caterer, baker, florist, DJ or musicians, limo, party rentals — anybody providing a service or a product on your wedding day. From Sane Wedding Planner

Providing every member of your crew with a timeframe will help everything go smoothly. Many wedding planners recommend starting your ceremony starts 15 minutes earlier than it truly does to avoid individuals being late and trying to sneak down the aisle ahead of the wedding party.

There is nothing worse than allowing hours of time and attention to detail go to waste simply because there was no communication between guests. Setting up your soiree to be self-serve will allow family and friends to be free to mingle and help themselves. This increases the comfort level while still maintaining a formal atmosphere. Most of your guests can read; take advantage of that fact and let your creative flair help them determine where to be and when.

Menu Cards and Place Settings

If you have a specific menu selection, speech itinerary, or traditional garter ceremony to fit in before or after the first dance; utilize your table number setting to communicate your schedule. Alternatively, you could offer each place setting a detailed card that can become an additional keepsake or be part of your take home gifts. Having a general theme to adhere to will help guests manage bathroom and cigarette breaks and putting wee ones down to nap without missing any big photo opportunities.

Do keep in mind that you don’t have to plan every second of your guests’ stay – nor should you. They’re big boys and girls and likely want to take time to relax or explore on their own, rather than feel like they’re at a regimented work conference. So let them cherish the “down times” – after all, they’ll likely need them to charge up for dancing at your reception. From The Pink Bride

Wedding Weekend

Many venues are flexible for offering their grounds. Destination wedding couples are more commonly offering Friday to Sunday itineraries’. Telling your guests where activities will be held, what time the meet and greet BBQ will be held and deciding to have a 3 legged race and brunch instead of a formal gift opening on Sunday is all easier if your family and friends know what to expect.

Just Have Fun

Understand that no matter how thorough your wedding planning goes, there will be times when your ceremony and reception seems to have a mind of its’ own. Ensure that you stay positive by allowing yourself the freedom to sit back and relax no matter what happens.

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Things to consider when hiring a wedding caterer

When choosing a wedding caterer, there are several things you should keep in mind so you don’t end up with a disaster on your hands. You don’t need to be reminded that your wedding day is one of the most important times of your life. You certainly don’t want your special day to end up feeling like a story from one of those “wedding catastrophe” reality television shows.

The main reason for hiring a caterer is obviously to have them prepare the food you’ll be serving your guests. The key reason for hiring a the right caterer is to help reduce the amount of stress you’ll deal with in planning and staging your wedding and reception. If you are overly stressed, the months leading up to your wedding will almost make you yearn for an elopement. You want to be able to enjoy this special time of your life and not be completely overwhelmed and anxious.

Weddings are very detailed events, right down to who is seated next to whom at the reception tables. When you’re searching for a good caterer, in addition to the quality of their food preparation, look for someone who has extensive experience with weddings and events similar in size to yours. A professional caterer should know how much food to prepare based on the number of guests you are expecting. Portions should be generous and the food should be as memorable as the day itself. Also, keep an eye open for examples of your candidate’s project management skills. For example, are they well-prepared and organized for meetings? A very detail-oriented person who has successfully handled jobs of your size in the past will work well as your caterer.

Oftentimes, you’ll be better off if you choose someone whose taste and style is appropriate for your style of wedding. You want your caterer to be in synch with your theme and decor. You probably won’t want to hire a caterer who’s known for country cooking if your reception is chic and elegant. At the same time, you might rule out the fine dining specialist for your waterside picnic. One thing to be sure of is that the caterer you choose is clear about the details of your event and understands everything you expect of them. You will want to get all of these details in writing so there is no confusion regarding your expectations. Miscommunication is the primary cause of problems so avoid them with clarity.

One good way to get a headstart on locating the right caterer is to see what previous clients think about their work. Ask for written recommendations from other clients. If possible, try to speak with one or two of them so you can ask some specific questions about their experiences. You want to hire a caterer who comes with a stamp of approval. Be wary of working with anyone who is unwilling or even shows reluctance to help you with this request.

Lastly, here’s a bit of advice that has been proven time and time again: It is often unwise to let a family member or close friend act as your caterer. Too often there are differences of opinion, disagreements, and real or perceived slights that leave individuals with hurt feelings or even not speaking to one another. Hire a professional and treat your catering like you would any other service associated with your wedding day. Besides, you want your loved ones enjoying your special day with you, not laboring in the kitchen and missing everything.
At Swan Manor, we offer caterers a large kitchen for food and service preparation, plus additional space as needed. Contact us to set a time to show you and your caterer the ballroom in the carriage house for indoor dining or various spots around the grounds for al fresco meals. Contact us today to schedule a meeting and tour. Call 704-776-2530 or use the contact form here on the site. We look forward to hearing from you.

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Show your bridesmaids that you appreciate them

It’s vital to show your bridesmaids that you appreciate them. These ladies have decided to honor you and your groom by standing up for the both of you on your big day. They have made it to countless appointments, securing dresses, shoes, flowers, centerpieces and probably driven all over town on your behalf. Not to mention all of the time and effort they have put into planning you a spectacular bridal shower or Stagette. Take some time to come up with a thoughtful way to say thank you.

A token of your appreciation

A memorable gift for your maids is always a sweet surprise if it is in your budget. For example, consider purchasing the bridesmaid jewelry or offering each lady a special anklet. They will treasure this memento for years to come and will be touched that you went that extra step to show your thanks. Some great gift ideas include:

• A spa gift certificate (hair, manicure, pedicure, etc.)
• A pendant or chain
• Bangles, earrings or bracelet
• Bottle of wine or champagne
• Offer to pay a portion of the cost for their bridesmaid dress or shoes or hair and makeup
• Get some gift certificates from your wedding photographer and give your girls a coupon for a family session
• Dinner and a movie gift certificate

Handmade thoughtfulness

Sometimes the wedding taps out your entire budget. If anyone is going to understand besides your spouse, it will be your best girls. They have been accompanying you on your buying trips and booking appointments and probably picked up on the worried expression that has crossed your face from time to time. Fear not. Some simple handmade gestures can mean more than the costliest spending spree. Consider some of the following easy ideas:

• Hand-sewn heart sachets (fill with lavender or leave scent free)
• Plant some seedlings in a painted pot
• Make a crafty thank you card
• Stamp some stationary
• Etch or paint some wine glasses
• Frame a black and white photo of the two of you
• Make some homemade tin patio lanterns for her deck or balcony

Green brides

Plant a tree in your bridesmaid’s name and feel great about a gift that keeps on giving. Purchase some perennial plants for her garden or start a container garden for her. Many nurseries will offer a bulk discount if you are purchasing an abundant quantity. Give her a gift certificate or I.O.U. coupon for a future lunch and shopping date at her favorite thrift store. Buy some candle holders at a local swap meet or garage sale and upcycle them with her favorite paint colors. The possibilities are endless and easy to give her the extra thanks she deserves.

Personalize your thank yous

Of course, you can simply stop at your favorite restaurant or store and grab a mitt full of gift certificates or create your own on your computer. However, who says one size has to fit all? Each of your ladies has their own favorite color and activity preferences. Maybe one of your gals loves art and an adult coloring book and some new art supplies would make the perfect gift. Perhaps another of your friends is passionate about gardening and would love a nursery gift certificate or some thoughtfully selected seed packets.

The group thank you

If you prefer to make a day of it as opposed to individual gifts, consider some of the following:

• A trip to your local water park
• A spa day
• Horseback riding
• A round of golf
• A winery trip

Regardless of how you choose to show your bridesmaids you appreciate them, it will be remembered that you went the extra mile to show how important they are and how much help they have been to you.

While you’re figuring out the perfect gift for your bridesmaids, you can go ahead and settle another important issue: The wedding and reception venue. Swan Manor has you covered there. Between our stately manor house, carriage house ballroom and manicured grounds, the special day of your dreams is possible on our grounds. Contact us today to schedule a meeting and tour. Call 704-776-2530 or use the contact form here on the site to learn about our wedding packages. We look forward to hearing from you.

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Look for a wedding reception venue with indoor/outdoor spaces

Look for a wedding reception venue with both indoor and outdoor spaces to get the most out of your celebration. Having a myriad of places to mingle will enable every guest to find their ideal comfort zone, thus, enticing them to stay longer.

The downside of a club atmosphere

If your venue is one large space with thumping bass notes blaring and nothing but flashing lights everywhere, you actually might not end up partying into the wee hours as planned. Of course, much of this will depend on the age and interests of your guests. However, Great Aunt Edna and your grandparents might find this space extremely loud and leave early. It will also be difficult to mingle and chat with your guests above the noise.

Accentuate natural surroundings

Take notes when you visit your venue to discuss final details during the planning process. Highlight any natural indoor and outdoor photo ops that are on the grounds. Many venues have abundant spectacular beauty. Consider if any of the following are available for some stunning photo opportunities with your photographer and guests:

• Pond, water fountain, bridge, waterfall
• Trees, garden, forest
• Sculpture
• Rock wall
• Rustic barn
• Field of wildflowers
• Mountains
• Indoor art background
• Spiral staircase or architecturally intriguing stairwell

Free-range weddings

Outdoor receptions are lovely. Many couples cannot imagine getting married with a roof over their head and insist the entire event take place outside. This is a wonderful sentiment and can be thoroughly enjoyed if you have taken the appropriate measures into account. Having some fleece throws on hand for your guests to use on their shoulders or legs can be most welcome if you are celebrating late into the night or during chillier spring and fall months.

Making some no-sew fleece throws to match your wedding colors is simple. Simply get the wedding party together one night and cut some fringe on the edges of your square or rectangular blankets…and voila! Consider embroidering your initials for a special and practical guest favor.

Sun respite

The last thing you want for your pictures is a bunch of sunburned guests. Look for a wedding reception venue with indoor/outdoor spaces to accommodate everyone’s comfort level along with your own. Having some cooler, air-conditioned places available can be heavenly if you are getting married in the height of summer.

Varied seating options

While your teenage cousins might enjoy some high, fancy bar stool chairs, your older guests will appreciate not having to climb up and down. If your venue doesn’t have any loveseats or couches, consider creating your own perimeter lounge atmosphere in the foyer. Get creative — if covered hay bales suit your theme, then go for it. It is important to have some places for guests to catch up with one another and a spot to rest while they are waiting for the bathroom.

Smoking guests

If you have zero smokers on your guest list, that’s great. How wonderful to be surrounded by such a health conscious group of people. However, if you do have uncles that enjoy cigars and guests who still smoke cigarettes, fret not. Simply have the emcee announce where they can appropriately smoke. Set up extra outdoor seating and tables to provide a comfortable location. This will help prevent people from standing and smoking right outside of the doorways. Having extra ashtrays on hand is respectful for the cleanup crew and may help you prevent being saddled with additional cleaning fees.

By choosing a wedding venue that has equally exciting indoor and outdoor possibilities, both you and your guests will have your needs met. Taking photos will be extra fun when you don’t have to drive all over town to “get that shot” as well.

Between our stately manor house, carriage house ballroom and manicured grounds, the indoor/outdoor wedding and reception of your dreams is waiting for you at Swan Manor. Contact us today to schedule a meeting and tour. Call 704-776-2530 or use the contact form here on the site. We look forward to hearing from you.

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