Line the Cakes with Stripes

Inspired by stripes? Have your cakes decorated in the theme a well.

Photo credits: All of the above photos via Martha Stewart Weddings

Fun with Stripes

Patterns and stripes can be dramatic when decorated in black and white. If that is too overwhelming and you prefer something a little less intense, dots paired with stripes will work wonderfully. When done in black and white, the combination is formal, but playful. Striped table runners and polka dotted napkins, polka dot ring pillow with striped ribbons, there are so many ways to incorporate this look into your decor.Have more fun with this combination by using a range of colours instead, it will look ultra cheerful and vibrant.

Photo credits (clockwise from top left): Table setting via Style Me Pretty, Ring Pillow via Style Me Pretty, Colourful Striped Table Runner via Martha Stewart Weddings, Vibrant centerpiece via Style Me Pretty, Ceremony decor via Style Me Pretty, Centerpiece via Style Me Pretty, (Center) Chair decor via Style Me Pretty

Being Glamorous with Stripes

Decorating with mishmash of patterns can be challenging, espceially when it's so easy to fall into the error of messiness. But when done in moderation, can create a very interesting palette. Damask patterns paired with stripes, and coloured with black and white, can look very sophisticated, just be sure not to go overboard. Bring damask patterns onto favor boxes and table runners, and have stripes on napkins and tableware, all in black and white. To add that burst of colour into the decor, introduce flowers in either fuchsia or cornflower blue.

Photo credits: (Top row left to right) Wedding Invites via Green Wedding Shoes Wedding Blog, Blue Bouquet via Martha Stewart Weddings, Table setting via Green Wedding Shoes Wedding Blog, (Center Row) Table setting via Green Wedding Shoes Wedding Blog, (Bottom row left to right) Food display, Ring pillow, Table setting all via Green Wedding Shoes Wedding Blog

Fluttery Blooms

Blooms of peonies, ranunculus, garden roses and fringed tulips create a soft and romantic vibe, and pack such a big visual punch. Big blooms are perfect for creating a feel of lightness when paired with organza. Lace and flower appliques provides added details to the decor.

Photo Credit (clockwise from top left): Vera Wang Helena Gown via Vera Wang, Centerpiece arrangement via Martha Stewart Weddings, Venue setup via Green Wedding Shoes Wedding Blog, bouquet via Martha Stewart Weddings, Flower girl hair accessory via Green Wedding Shoes Wedding Blog, Flower and Lace Cake via My Sweet and Saucy

A Case for Beauty

Fumbling through a soft pouch looking for cosmetics is quite a hassle, so having a solid cosmetics or beauty case is a wonderful addition to your travel essentials. You may prefer to have one that fits into your tote for everyday use, or go over-the-top with one that can carry even your beauty products. Either way, you will have a full view of your make-up stash once you open up the case. A cosmetic case will make a great gift for your bridemaids, or even better, a perk-me-up gift for yourself to bring along for the honeymoon. This is indeed something to cheer about.

Photo credit:

(1) Fossil Vintage Re-Issue Frame Cosmetic Case via Fossil

(2) Bobbi Brown Peony & Python Beauty Case via Bobbi Brown

(3) Royce Leather Cosmetics Case via Kohl's

(4) Trish McEvoy Ultimate Beauty Organiser via Trish McEvoy

(5) Rebecca Minkoff Alison Cosmetics Case via Shopbop.com

And now for Desserts

Desserts are the perfect way to end the wedding reception. With so many types of sweet treats out there, we are really spoilt for choice. Think of all the souffles, cakes and pastries available in cafes and restaurants, all looking too good to be eaten. The presentation of the desserts are just as important as the food itself, setting the mood for the first bite into the sweetness. Having the desserts portioned into glasses and cups and shallow dishes make for an interesting look. Here are some pretty ideas to whet your appetite.

Photo Credit: All photos from Green Wedding Shoes Wedding Blog ( Desserts in a Dish)

If having western desserts seem too much a diversion from a classic Chinese dinner reception, it's a great idea to have the Chinese dessert presented in individual servings. Think a shot glass filled with layered yam and pumpkin paste topped with a drizzle of coconut cream, a small jar loaded with glutinuous rice balls topped with red bean cream and a sprinkle of gingko nuts, or a whisky glass packed with deconstructed egg tart topped with birds' nest or fruits compote.

Stuctured Minis

I absolutely love short cocktail dresses. They are fun to wear, yet glamorous enough for special occasions. Defy the tradition of wearing a long gown for your ceremony, and go with a cocktail dress. You'll be ready for a night of dancing and mingling without worrying about the weight and length of your dress. This bustier with wave-like layered skirt is perfect for a intimate ceremony. To complete the look, add a punch with a pair of bright hue pumps.

Photo credit: Rafael Cennamo "Spring Blossom" Dress via Martha Stewart Weddings