For my destination wedding, how many people can I anticipate not to accept the invitation?

It's not an exact science, but with destination weddings, you can expect to lose anywhere from 25% to 35% of the guests. There are lots of factors that go into your guest's decision to attend your destination wedding, however, so I always recommend taking a quick inventory of your guest list and evaluating the following things:

1. How close are they to us? Meaning, even if time and finances were a huge issue, would they stop at nothing to attend? Or, are they a more distant friend that would feel fine just sending a gift?

2. What is their financial situation? Can they afford to jet off to Italy or even just Colorado for the weekend or will a trip like yours put them in a financial crunch?

3. Do they have the time to spare? Are they uber busy or do they have the flexibility to take a few days off here and there?

Of course, you might not know the exact details of each person's situation, but going through and taking each guest on an individual basis might give you more accurate insight into how many guests you can expect to attend.

Choosing the Right Venue for Your Wedding Style : Part II, The Private Estate

It's really no secret. While I try so hard to be remain unbiased, I'm a private estate gal at heart. Not that private estates aren't without their frustrations (rentals alone can kill the budget and most are a logistical nightmare when it comes to power, lighting, parking and bathrooms), but even so, there is something wonderful about having a space all to yourself on your wedding day. This being said, I continue my series on finding the right venue for your style with the pros of the private estate.

You might be a private estate bride if:

~You prefer privacy over convenience. Estates are typically renting to you and you only for the weekend meaning you don't have to worry about bumping into the bride who took the morning slot or gawking hotel guests who don't realize that your wedding is not a public affair.

~You like the idea of a completely blank slate in which to implement your wedding day vision. This is a big one for me. Love the flexibility in design that comes with a private estate. Though this blank slate can come with a hefty price tag in order to make it functional.

~You like the idea of marrying at a venue that is a little off the beaten path and is not the site your friends have been to a million times. I confessed last week that resorts have found a new place in my heart, but truth be told if you live in Southern California, chances are you and your friends have been to several weddings at the best resorts in Los Angeles. Private estates typically reduce this possibility making your day feel that much more special.

~You want to live in the lap of luxury if only for a minute. Many private estates are multi-million dollar homes with breathtaking views, glamorous amenities and an all around, over the top experience.

~Along with hosting your wedding at these homes, many allow you and a few select guests to stay at the home, making it the perfect place for a rehearsal dinner bbq or morning after brunch as well.

Next week, let's chat about the beauty of hosting a wedding in your very own back yard.

E + A Get Hitched

                                                                                                
Halloween in Santa Barbara never looked so elegant as on E & A's big day! From saying vows at the Natural History Museum (my new favorite spot) to dancing the night away at Four Seasons Biltmore, the wedding was definitely one of my favorites of all time! With a haunted mansion atmosphere, the couple wanted to give a nod to the holiday without going too kitschy. The end result was lovely with the appropriate amount of spooky fun. Check out the images from Amy and Stuart...

                                                                                                                                                    

Anthropologie and Weddings? Sign Me Up

If you haven't heard the latest, Anthropologie is gearing up to sell wedding gowns and other glorious bridal goodies! It will be too late for all of you 2010 brides, but if thinking about 2011 or later for your wedding, hang tight and you're sure to have a drool worthy, coveted gown from the store, my friend, so adoringly refers to as "girl crack." I would love to call him blasphemous, but with so many charming things in their retail shops, I would be lying if I didn't admit that I've been known to get a little bit high from my Anthro experience! Anyway, stay tuned and we will be sure to debut some of the lovelies as they come to market! In the meantime, there are still several little numbers and accessories in their current collection that might work for your rehearsal dinner, small backyard wedding or even morning after brunch. We've pulled a few of our favs for you below...