Going the Distance: Marathon prep wisdom for your Wedding Day

Brides Running On The Beach
Image by Joe Shlabotnik via Flickr

How can 26.2 miles help with going down the aisle? Well, like wedding planning, training for a marathon starts months in advance. Wise runners are methodical and have some simple race day routines that, if followed, can ease the minds (and feet, and nerves..) of brides.  We’ve picked out some winners:

  • Get a good night’s rest before the big day.  Runners know that if you don’t go to sleep at a decent hour, your energy won’t hold out the whole race.  Make sure you don’t stay out too late at the rehearsal dinner, or hanging with your girls.
  • Eat breakfast.  Runners eat light, and early so as to digest, but food=fuel=crucial.  As for brides, eat small snacks throughout the day and hydrate.  The last thing you need is a headache or a fainting spell.
  •   Test all your gear, and don’t try anything new.  Marathoners stick to what they know – even new sunscreen on race day is a no-no.  Brides should follow suit – shoes should be ‘broken in’ and make-up tested for allergic reactions.  The hairstyle should have a trial run.  Let your motto be “No surprises.”
  • Comfortable, well-fitting shoes are non-negotiable.  You just can’t run 26.2 miles in uncomfortable shoes.  You shouldn’t get married in them either. Don’t make blisters your most vivid wedding memory.  Pretty and comfortable are not mutually exclusive
  • Breathe, stand up straight and enjoy your moment. Marathoners have always followed what we give as our essential bridal advice.   So keep your eye on the finish line!  Born to run, baby!

Dahhling, you must meet Dahlia!

Meet the Dahlia.  With it’s depth and wide face it fills out arrangements and bouquets with character.  Coming in a range of rich saturated colors as well as variegated yellows and pinks, it’s a breath of fresh air in the standard wedding lineup.  And going by some of the meanings ascribed to the different colors, you couldn’t find a more appropriate flower to include in your celebration.

Variegated dahlia – “I think of you constantly”

White dahlia – “gratitude to parents”

(this one’s the kicker)

Yellow dahlia – “I’m happy you love me”

Dahlia in Sunshine

Orange with Pink Dahlia

Flowers Group 2

Summer Dahlias

Photos by Cindy See

Now THAT’S what I call a package!

This post is about how awesome it is to check out packages in Palm Springs.  Get your mind out of the gutter – we’re talking WEDDING packages in Palm Springs. Goodness gracious people, did you think we were pandering to grab attention for the blog or something?
Wedding Packages: does the very idea strike fear in your heart? The old image of picking wedding elements off a Chinese restaurant style menu is behind the times. Face it – who wants the phrase “columns A, B and C” anywhere near the most special day of your life? But the concept is a good one, as it simplifies the planning process, and eases your mind. Imagine: having a built-in group of top notch wedding professionals who enjoy working together collaborate to make your day beautiful and seamless at a discount – sign me up, right?
For destination weddings, and we do have a lot of destination weddings in Palm Springs and the surrounding areas, the package can be a lifesaver for a bride who is across the country or across the world.  Even with the internet, doing the legwork required to find Coachella Valley wedding vendors is daunting and an all-inclusive wedding package will save a lot of time, not to mention money.
Show me the Money!
People ask, do packages really save money?  The answer is YES! In our case, we team up with our favorite salon, photographers, venues, etc. and agree that everyone offers a deal in order to be a part of the team. You’re guaranteed overall savings – not just on one element of your celebration, and you’re spared the haggling. Also consider what the peace of mind is worth to you – and the free time you’ll have to focus on the more fun parts of being engaged.
Book a Class Act
When looking for a wedding package, look for groups of top local vendors that you can screen on review sites like Yelp. Your contact should give you information on the professional they’ll be working with, and set up at least one conference call (for destination brides)or a one-on-one meeting. If they won’t, walk away. If there’s one vendor you’re not comfortable with but you like everyone else, ask your contact if they have other options for that category.  Likely, they’ll be able to accommodate you.
Packages: Our Favorite Things (brown paper/string optional)

There’s a huge package deal called “Summer Lovin'” right now being offered out of Desert Bride in Indio.  Basically the Package to end all Packages, and we’re not just saying that because we’re a part of it. It’s an A-Team of wedding professionals from across the valley who’ve come together to offer high end style, service and quality, with incredible values for the wise brides who get in on the deal.  So we’re going all Woodsy the Owl on you.  Get wise!  Let us give you a deal! Don’t be shy, check out our package!

for an appointment:

http://www.desertbride.com/    (760) 342-0777

Keturah Trevor, premier limousine, Nicole Reynolds, Weez Gaul Hyma, California DJ, Mickie Reed, Mark Anthony, joy Fields, Julie Renee, Gregory Goodman, Steven Wayne