DAVID TUTERA: Diane, Fall is one of my favorite times of the year to plan a wedding. As you plan, think of all the reasons why people love this season: the natural colors, the cool crisp weather, and the harvest (which inspires great colors, foods, and décor!) I bet you'll be inspired by your surroundings alone. Spray paint mini pumpkins and gourds metallic colors like gold and bronze for unique centerpieces or décor for your buffet. Create a specialty drink for your open bar that infuses fall spices. Have fun with fall treats, like s'more kits for favors. (And you are correct... the "Chicken Dance" is always "out of season!") But embracing the season your wedding takes place in is always a road to success. Enjoy!

DAVID TUTERA: Dear Nehe2x, Well, some brides would see being able to take the reins for their entire wedding as a gift! But, I do believe that weddings turn out best when it's a two-person effort. After all, it is celebrating your "union."

I do sometimes find that husbands-to-be just aren't in the wedding groove--as J.Lo would say in "The Wedding Planner" movie, "most grooms are N-I-D: not into details!" So advice to couples: Make the "tasks" of wedding planning less obligatory and more fun. If you need to meet to make final decisions, do it over a fabulous dinner out on the town, or open a great bottle of wine. The key is balancing your wedding check-list with quality time that allows you to just enjoy each other rather than constantly working on the wedding. Make plans to accomplish something together and then reward yourselves by doing something fun.

Also, make sure your groom feels as if he has a say and your wedding decisions aren't just about what you like/want and what you both "need." While some aspects of the wedding may not particular light his fire (likely this pertains to flowers), include him by asking, "If you could have anything you want at the wedding, what would it be?" Support his answer and together, work to incorporate it, whether it's a certain type of music or his favorite cake flavor. Try to tie in his heritage or culture. The more personal the wedding is to the both of you, the more fun the journey will be.

DAVID TUTERA: Kkacn78744, Yes, yes, yes! Bridemaids should always have real flowers. By no means do they need to be elaborate bouquets--but having fresh flowers makes all the difference. If budget is a concern, don't give up: the amazing thing about flowers is that some are so beautiful in and of themselves that having masses of them isn't even necessary. Beautiful bouquets can be made with just a few stems of statement flowers like sunflowers, tulips or calla lillies. Wrap the handles of the bouquets in extra fabric from the alterations of your bridesmaids' dresses or your gown for a couture custom look that doesn't break the bank.

DAVID TUTERA: Kortney,  Your wedding theme actually reminds me of one of my upcoming episodes in Season Two... but I won't give any more away!! I think these three colors are beautiful together: they're very natural, organic hues. To keep them from "clashing," tie them together with natural elements. Try using rattan or raffia as ties around your napkins. Intersperse green leaves, zebra grass and wooden branches in your floral arrangements. Include gold as an accent color, maybe with votive candles on your tables, or use a deep shade of it in the printing of your programs.

Regarding busy prints, use them sparingly but deliberately--for example, show off a printed fabric on the inside of shawls for your bridesmaids, as linen on your cocktail tables, or ribbon on your favors. You're on the right track!

DAVID TUTERA: Amber, I do love the magic that comes with making guests feel like they are indoors when they are really under the sky; and outdoors when in reality they are in a ballroom. Something about the collision of indoors/outdoors fascinates guests--and is always fun for the planner! For your "outdoor-themed" reception that is taking place indoors, use branches in your centerpieces as they are both cost-efficient and good for creating a distinct feeling of an outdoor atmosphere. From the branches, hang tea lights or small lanterns with fishing wire--also cost-effective! Start your reception with a fully-lit room, and throughout the night, dim the lights as if the sun is setting. As it gets darker, the tea lights will glow like an outdoor reception under the stars. Alternatively, use elements from the great outdoors to mentally transport your guests: try a runner of grass town the center of your table and embed votive candles inside. Use fun fruits in your flower arrangements. Find items outdoors (now this is the ultimate money-saver!) that fit your theme, like pressed leaves or lavender sprigs that you can place at each setting. The easiest way to bring the outdoors in is to go outside, look around, and do just that!

DAVID TUTERA: Hi Lilly...I am sorry to hear that you are having trouble with the owners of your clients venue. While this is common, it is also uncomfortable. The best advice I can give you is to make it clear to the owner that you both share a common goal, which is to make the clients wedding perfect. For you, it might come to putting any personal issues aside and do what is necessary to make that happen for the client. As the planner, I suggest that you do not burden your couple with this matter, but rather handle it yourself and know that in one month it will be over and that you will not recommend or work with them again. It sounds like they are aware of the difficult nature of the venues owners, so being the bigger person and creating an outstanding event in-spite of this will only make you shine!

Hi David, I love watching your show! I am in the process of planning my wedding, for August 28, 2009 in Orlando, Fl. I am from NYC, this wedding will be destination. I have chosen a venue, the Holy Trinity Reception Center, and I have gotten a caterer, a photographer, and videographer, Imy invitations are almost distributed , but I still have a lot to do. I need advice decorating. I have chosen fuschia and blush pink as my colors, with white accents. I am at a total lost for centerpiece ideas. My ceremony will be in the same room as my reception, so I wanted to set up a canapoy in the front of the room to get married under,and during the ceremony a sweetheart table for me and my fiance will be under it, I need ideas to decorate the canopy, the tables, and the lobby of the convention center. I am way over budget already, I had a budget of $12,000 but I am reach close to $20,000 already!! I hired a decorator, but honestly she is no help :( She never returns calls and takes forwever to email me back a response, she is in charge of doing the flowers for my bridal party, I want roses and calla lillys, blushes for the bridesdmaids with white, and blush and fuschia for mines. I need ideas for the sweetheart table and how to decorate. I want a candle and rosepetal themed table setting. I need help, and I am running out of time. Please help. -- truluv1204

DAVID TUTERA: Your color scheme sounds beautiful and your idea of turning the ceremony structure into reception décor is fabulous. I have done that type of transition many times in an effort to get more than one use out of a beautiful canopy or Chuppah. In terms of ideas for an inexpensive rose petal and candle centerpiece, this can be easily done a number of ways. One idea that always looks great is to fill an assortment of glass vases with water and then float masses of rose heads, rose petals and floating tea lights on top. You can add a pinkish tint to the water with food coloring. Create a runner of these down your table and flank them with more petals and inexpensive glass votives along the sides. For a extra sparkly touch, dip the rims of the in votives in metallic fuchsia paint, or roll the outside of them in craft glue and then blush glitter. Another spin on this that is better suited for a round table is to find two square glass vases that are sized so that one fits just inside the other. Fill the thin space between the layers with silk rose petals (real ones will work too, but might create a fog) and then fill the center with water and floating candles. Either of these looks can be applied to the sweetheart table, but for an extra special touch, consider a floral chair back treatment for just your two chairs. If you have the time, you can create an amazing overlay for the sweetheart table by gluing pink silk petals to a the appropriate sized square of sheer blush fabric. Glue more petals to the bottom edges and work your way inwards making the petals more sporadic in the middle. This will set the sweetheart table apart while tying into the petal theme.

Where can i find a beautiful Wiccan wedding dress? Everywhere i looked the dresses seemed cheap. please help! -- Mikisummers

DAVID TUTERA: For a beautiful white Wiccan wedding dress you might want to look for vintage or antique wedding gowns as opposed to a more costume-like white Gothic-inspired dress. That will likely alleviate the cheaper fabrics and cuts you are coming across in your shopping. A dress from the Victorian era might suit you well and there are also websites that create brand new replicas of these. Estate sales or searches on EBay might prove helpful. Another idea is to take the design of a dress you do like and have it custom made by a great tailor.

Where did they find those black and white bridesmaid dresses for Mandy Ferrer's wedding? They were so great. Does anyone know the designer or store? -- FNC

DAVID TUTERA: These gowns came from a great dress design company called Faviana. Visit Faviana at www.faviana.com and stay tuned for my line of bridal gowns called "David Tutera by Faviana" a line of luxurious wedding gowns inspired by celebrity red carpet fashions!

DAVID TUTERA: Greetings Jane! Congratulations on your wedding! I love a French theme. Paris is after all, the city of love. My suggestion to you would be to incorporate some yellow tones into your current scheme. Also, utilize shades of blues, and not just one. Some other Parisian tips would be to use napkins made out of a toile fabric, fill baskets with baguettes, breads and French cheeses, and put grapes on the tables for a very French countryside feeling. Bon Apetite!

QUESTION: My mom has had to change her wedding date due to the original reception site going bankrupt. Since she has done that it seems that she has lost all motivation in planning her wedding. The new date is 5-2-2009 and she barely has anything done. On top of all of this she is a Christian and marrying a Muslim and wanted to have parts of both faiths in her wedding. Can you give her any advice on what she needs to do to get the ball rolling again. She has her dress, ceremony site, reception site, colors and bridal party chosen but nothing else. Please we need your help ASAP.

By bridetobedtr on March 15, 2009 8:14 PM

DAVID TUTERA: Do not fear! This is a challenge I have actually worked with before and my best suggestion is to have just one, non-denominational officiant do your service. Then, do special sections of the ceremony that draw from each side. Incorporate traditions from both to keep both sides of the family and not feel like one side takes precedence over the other.

QUESTION: Hello David, My name is Samantha and my fiancé is Dennie. We reside in Land O' Lakes FL, where the weather is absolutely gorgeous in the fall and winter. Our wedding is planned for November 2009. I am in such a manic confusion planning this wedding. I have chosen a very bold color (red) scheme for my wedding. The theme is Caribbean romance, with tropical flowers and a steel band playing. I am having great difficulty with envisioning the decor for the reception. Since red is such a bold color I'm not sure how to incorporate it into the reception. My bridesmaid's dresses are red and my bouquet is going to be red roses. Can you please give me some suggestions?

Thank you,
MsSFJones
March 15, 2009 5:48pm

DAVID TUTERA: I like your Caribbean direction! I think using red in abundance is fantastic. I would do red everything-- linens, votives, candles, napkins, everything. In fear of it looking to 'firey' or more provocative than sophisticated, add some orange which will give a nod towards the Caribbean flair. Some great tropical flowers in red: Ginger, and Birds of Paradise.

QUESTION: I am getting married this September at the Sheraton Monarch Hotel in Springfield, MA. My husband to be and I do not have a lot of money and are on a limited budget. The majority of our budget went to the per plate cost of the reception as well as the photographer and Dj, so we do not have a lot left over for other decorations. The hotel is providing the linens (including chair covers)as well as small flower centerpieces, but I think we might need more. The colors we have chosen for our wedding are white and red, but we are not sure how much of each color to have. We are in a huge Grand Ballroom that seats 600 people, but we only have 125 guests...can you give me some tips on how to make it feel intimate and relaxed yet elegant? Also, when using white and red, how much of each is too much? I really want to make it look classy, but don't have the money to do so. Please help!

Love,
Rosemary & Seth (big fans of yours!)
March 10, 2009 8:22pm

DAVID TUTERA: My first suggestion is that if you do equal parts red and white, it will look like Valentine's Day (the wrong holiday for love--this is a holiday of your own!) Decorate with the majority red, and bring in just a little white to keep your proportions right. To make your event space seem more intimate and to keep your guests from swimming in it, bring trees in, have more tables with less guests, or use large branches in your décor.

QUESTION: David, My boyfriend and I are trying to plan a surprise wedding! Neither of us want a traditional wedding and Vegas has been done so many times! (I actually had a dream that we just decided to get married so we threw a BBQ and got married. I think it was after watching my big redneck wedding in all...haha!) We both decided we could tell one person about the wedding to have them stand up there with us. So I think we have a location and most of the details of the actual ceremony but we are still unsure of how to ensure everyone is there! We thought about telling everyone it was an engagement party and we weren't sure when the wedding was going to be, so they must be there! PLEASE give us any help or suggestions you have to offer!

Thanks,
Rachelb24
March 9, 2009 10:35pm

DAVID TUTERA: I love surprise weddings, I think they're a great idea, I really do! You're doing the right thing by inviting them to a celebration that isn't a declared wedding. I suggest that you have an area that the guests will move to in order to discover that it is actually your wedding. If they are showing up for one event they have in their head, physically moving them to another location where everything changes (music, lighting, décor, style) will help them make the mental transfer as well, and will make your wedding look like a deliberate surprise rather than an afterthought.

QUESTION: I am pretty sure that I have found the dress, but I can't bring myself to make the final decision. I love the dress I have, but feel like if I keep trying other ones on, I'd probably find something else I like as well. I just want to make sure I look GEORGOUS on our wedding day, and not feel like I made the wrong choice. I have never been able to choose dresses. In high school, at all of the proms I attended, I would wear one dress to dinner, and another to the actual prom. When I go to weddings now, I usually don't pick the dress until that day, or the night before. Help! The dress I think I have decided on is Allure style #8526...you can find it here: www.allurebridals.org/bridal.html

daziemarie8
March 2, 2009 9:42pm

DAVID TUTERA: Take the time to try on enough dresses until you feel like you've seen enough! If you've tried on enough to get a good feel for what's out there, then when you step into the right one, you'll feel it and know enough. You can't second guess yourself--it has to be the right dress for the season, body type, style of your celebration, and if that all makes sense and you still look great in it, then you have the right dress!

QUESTION: ALOHA David! I'm a US Army Service member, stationed in Hawaii, and I want to plan a vow renewal ceremony for me and my husband to celebrate 10 years of marriage. He is also a U.S Army Service member. Can you help with some ideas?

anointed1
March 1, 2009 10:41pm

DAVID TUTERA: Congrats on your vow renewal! It would be nice to create your wedding around something special to you--maybe recreate your original wedding or honeymoon. Make your vow renewal connected to your love and not just an anniversary party. Ask your husband what he thinks too, he may surprise you with some 'wedding wishes' of his own!

QUESTION: Hi David, I was watching Joanna and Michael's wedding on platinum weddings and you used rhinestone bracelets around the candles as a centerpiece. My question is where can I find something like or those exact bracelets?

barbie850
February 26, 2009 11:09am

DAVID TUTERA: Thank you for watching! I loved that wedding! For Joanna and Michael's candle trim, we actually used a diamond trim (faux diamonds can be found in this same trim at the craft store in the ribbon aisle.) You can also purchase elastic band of diamonds (much like bracelets) from faux rhinestone specialty sites by searching online.

This situation is the kind of thing where you have to go either all out--or not at all! But there are ways to make your party less Halloween-themed (like a regular party you could throw any year) and more unique to your wedding. Do more of a Venetian masquerade ball, or a masquerade (opposed to asking guests to come in costume). These two themes are elegant, but also Halloween friendly. Or, opt for a great castle feel with gothic or medieval inspirations; think candelabras, deep reds and jewel tones, and don't make it scary--make it pretty!

Subject: How much is too much?

Post: I'm unsure of how much to decorate my wedding reception's venue. We've chosen to do an afternoon party at a smallish historic mansion; it's definitely not the size of Oheka! Our theme is "Edwardian house party," and our colors are cream, gold and aqua with black accents. I'd love to highlight the fantasia feel of the Belle Epoque era's affinity for cascading profusions of blooms in garlands and displays similar to what appeared in the centerpieces for the Irish-themed wedding. But of course, there's that pesky budget to contend with (we're looking to spend about $1,500 on flowers and decor total, which includes renting gold chivari chairs and my bouquet). I'd also like to let the mansion's own considerable charm shine through. This celebration isn't about being showy, it's about providing our friends and family with a good time. I don't think they'll be able to do that if the rooms are crammed with stuff! I'd love ideas for ways to create an enveloping feel. Oh yes, and we're having tasting stations, a different one in each room, along with tables scattered throughout the space, instead of one big sit-down dinner, so guests won't walk into one big space; they'll explore several rooms. This whole thing is about giving a sense of abundance and fun. Ain't nothin' clean-lined or modern about it! I'm thinking about giving each room a different feel... but I'm not sure what's possible with our budget. Trees? Giant vertical centerpieces? Go with something gargantuan around the room's perimeter, and do a small bowl with floating tea lights on each table so as not to detract from the floral frenzy erupting overhead? I think I've looked at too many bridal magazines.
From: glemby on February 17, 2009 6:33pm

It's very clear you've done your homework and you know what you're talking about! Kudos to you! But my concerns for you is that your budget won't enable you to achieve your expectations that I gather from what you're explaining, so you may want to revisit either the overall wedding concept, or the budget and find places to cut. $1,500 is a good budget but with your great taste and dreams, it may not give you the money you need... If the floral design is what will truly make you happy, absolutely find short cuts other places (do you really need the most expensive gown or cake?) and put your money where your heart is.

Subject: Ivory on White

Post: Hi David: My outdoor wedding will be held under a covered patio on for August 22, 2009. My vision is an all white wedding ceremony. I plan to rent white folding garden chairs, white pipe and draping, white aisle runner, etc. but my dress is ivory and I am curious to know your opinion on the ivory dress on white decor. My flower colors are ivory, green, pink and orange so there will be some color in addition to the white ceremony. Thank you in advance!! I appreciate your help with this matter!
From: ERJC on February 17, 2009 9:37am

That's a great question. I love the fact that you're wearing ivory when everything is white. There are 200 shades of white!

You'll look beautiful in an ivory gown, floating into a space that's all white. But--against a soft version of white, the orange in your bouquet may be too harsh, so you may want to change it to peach or coral. Nice job!

Subject: My daughter's wedding is Valentine's Day 2010

Post: David, I love watching what you do to change an ordinary wedding into a one to remember. My youngest daughter and her fiancé are getting married next Valentine's Day, 2/14/2010. They are planning on paying for the bulk of the wedding themselves, but my husband and i plan on taking some of the financial burden from them. There are many ideas on the table, but we aren't sure how we can make them happen. The town that we live in is small, but relatively close-knit. Our family and our future son-in-law have been raised here. There will be some family members missing unfortunately (my father and our youngest son and daughter's fiancé's mother all are deceased). We want to remember them and make them a part of this occasion. Other than having the wedding venue and the reception venue booked, the only other things that have been decided upon are the bride's dress, the bridesmaids dresses, the tuxedos for the men and the general color scheme--our daughter and her fiancé are huge Duke University fans, hence them wanting to use Duke blue, silver and white. That's about as far as we've gotten any suggestion/comments and your help would be greatly appreciated. My husband and I want our daughter to have the wedding that she's always dreamed of, but keeping within the budget. All total, we are looking at around $5,000 as a budget. HELP!!
From: varmitlover on February 16, 2009 4:38pm

Be careful with having a Valentine's Day wedding--your costs are guaranteed to be increased with floral due to the high demand of the season and DAY, so do less floral and play up more elements of décor. Having a Valentine's Day wedding without holiday colors is great--the colors of your alma mater are actually also the colors that could be used for a great winter wonderland concept. Even though it's on Valentine's Day, it doesn't have to have that feeling, so consider going in that direction--you can also save money by using "winter wonderland-esque" branches instead (or with) floral, and linen can add color. Honoring those who have passed is a nice and thoughtful touch during a wedding--Do a great tribute of photos and frames, either on the escort card table or on a fireplace mantle.

Subject: Getting Married for the first time at 48 yr old

Post: I'm 48 yr old and getting married for the first time. Since I waited so long to get married, I will be funding the wedding. I don't have a lot of money to spend so I'm looking for ideas that will help me have a nice small ceremony (less than 75 people). I've found a venue- a church built in 1904 so it has old world charm and it wasn't overly expensive. But being a person who never dreamed of getting married or even thought about what her wedding should be, I don't know where to start. I do not have very sophisticated tastes but I would like to have something somewhat elegant. I don't have colors or any theme picked out right now. The wedding is planned for June of this year. Any ideas or help would be really appreciated. My budget is around $3K.
From: Vicki J on February 16, 2009 4:24pm

Congratulations on getting married! At 48--Good for you! And good for you for having the wedding you want.

Spring is a great time to have a wedding as you can take advantage of all the great floral available to you. Every table can feature a different flower: try tulips, hydrangea, and peonies. I love the 1904 church--your style should have turn of the century look, like beautiful lace on your tables. Because you are an older bride, your guests will be more sophisticated and will appreciate the beauty of this look.

No matter what your age is, getting married is YOUR DAY, and every piece of your wedding should be looked at just as importantly. Don't not do something because you fear you are "too old"--jump in and have your dream wedding. Enjoy!

Subject: Vegas Wedding/Color GREEN

Post: Hi David, I'm getting married at the MGM grand outside on one of the Terrace suite rooms. I know how much you love green which is going to have to be a color in my wedding because of the glow from the hotel. The ceremony will be held at 8PM with a cocktail and cake reception on the terrace for about 45 people. So Colors Green and I was thinking just keep it simple with White and Black? The Wedding is April 10th the suite is booked and I'll be going out with my mother on March 8th to get a better feel for the space, any ideas on color help at the GREEN Monster?? Oh and feel free to come help out LOL
From: melissahowetobe on February 14, 2009 2:29pm

Hi Melissa! Well, you know what my answer's going to be: No green! But it's because I disagree with you: just because the hotel is green, why does your décor have to match? These are your wedding colors, not MGM's. White, green and black are too harsh. I know and love the hotel--it's dramatic and bold, and taking your inspiration from that is hard to translate into a soft, beautiful wedding. I suggest doing orange and pink, or pink and white--and incorporate a fresh look of green into your wedding through the stems of the floral that are in whatever colors you dreamed of for your one and only wedding day that is all about not Vegas, but you. I love Vegas and think every other day could be about Vegas, but make your wedding day about you. Win big for me!

]]> tag:www.wetv.com,2009:/blogs/my-fair-wedding//88.20079 2009-02-18T16:49:12Z 2009-02-20T19:07:57Z

The theme as of late seems to be brides on a budget--and this is great! Let no dwindling economy or tightly drawn purse strings keep you from having a celebration to remember. Below are some tips for cash-conscious couples looking for ways to keep their bridal bucks in check. Good luck and happy saving!

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Verna, Congratulations!!!! For snowflake confetti, visit http://www.chicoparty.com/snowflakeconfetti.aspx.

Having your colors be silver and white with the hint of blue is great. Now for table cloths: a white cloth with a silver overlay is a strong way to begin. Have your overlay be sheer, and with sparkle, it will look wonderful on each table and throughout the room, too. To add some soft blue, have the napkins be the ice blue color, and have a "bling" piece of custom jewelry (or anything that sparkles) added to each napkin. You can also have a single flower head with a faux diamond added into the center of the flower head for bridal touch with sparkle. A trip to an arts and crafts store (or on-line) is where you can purchase great embellishments if bling is your thing! You can buy bags of plastic faux jewels that you can add to invitations, flowers and napkins, and dropping jewels loose in clusters on the table looks good, too. Lots of candles will add to this overall design. You can decorate pillar candles, add a ribbon around the outside of them (about halfway down) and then glue a large "bling" stone to the ribbon--and it looks amazing!

You can also take simple glass votive candle holders and spray them silver or with frosted paint for snow. Let them dry, then spray them with spray glue and roll them in glitter in your ice blue color, white or silver. Add some scattered faux diamonds like we mentioned before.

My last idea for you is to purchase "fairy dust" that you can add to your flowers. Ask your florist for this sparking sheen spray. It will give them the illusion of snow and ice and it's a great final look. Have fun and hope these tips help!

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Post: Dear David: My fiancé and I have just started looking for a reception site for our Summer 2010 wedding. We really want somewhere with amazing food (big Italian families to keep happy!). We definitely do not want your "typical" wedding hall. Our guest list is around 175 people and we're paying for the majority of the wedding so our budget must be kept in mind (we figure to be roughly $130 per person for the reception). Most sites do not have tastings more than 6 weeks before the wedding, which doesn't really help. Family and friends haven't been much help as far as referrals. Any suggestions on what we should do? -- Deanna

Deanna, your question is very, very important. Please, you can NOT book a space without knowing if it (and the food!) is good! A tasting is important to make sure the food you want is right for your wedding... and six weeks prior to your wedding (the normal timeline for a tasting) is not the time to find out if their food is good enough overall for a wedding, so you must be sure you either speak with several people who have had a wedding there or insist on a mini-tasting of their food to make you feel comfortable prior to contracting them. This mini-tasting is not in replacement of your tasting six weeks prior, though! You must still have that, too. So, you are worried about the right thing, however, you still must get as much concrete info prior to you deciding if this is the right place for you. Bon Apetit!

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Post: Morning David: I met you yesterday on the R train (34th Street), remember Natasha. As I told you, I have been married for almost 7 years now, and we are thinking to have a small wedding celebration with our family and some close friends. I wanted to do this sometime in the summer of 2010, so I wanted to start planning as soon as possible. We wanted to invite about 80 guess but no more than 100 with a budget of $8,000 (I am not sure if this is realistic, but....). If we can spend less I will. (Not including my dress or the grooms suit.) Also, what is your fee as a wedding planner? Natasha Sealy-Dorvelus

Yes, I do remember you! I was seated and you were standing, and we chatted a bit. It is always nice to meet people that love the show.

Now, $8,000 is not a lot of money, so you have to handle things with careful attention to all the elements needed. Food and drink is the large area that will use up most of your budget, so you must begin here. Deciding on your guest count and then figuring out the food will allow you to see what is left for everything else for your wedding plans.

I suggest you do a lot of the pieces of your wedding yourself to save money. Invites you can do by hand, or print on your computer and they can truly look lovely. Add elements of decor to them to bring out the overall design of your wedding. Keep flowers for the tables limited but unique so they look both interesting and beautiful for your special day. Adding lots of candles will make your wedding look fantastic, romantic and dramatic. Finally, music! You can run music form your iPod (which is no money at all!) or you can have a DJ which is much less expensive then a band. If you do have some money in your budget, I highly recommend a DJ to make your wedding feel more special. Hope these tips help, and enjoy the wedding planning process! Remember, it's supposed to be fun no matter what your budget is. Enjoy!

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Post: Hi David, My name is Jackie I am 26-years-old have been engaged since 11/15/2005. I watch your show all the time and I love what you do every time. You do such a beautiful job! I am getting married June 20, 2009 and the only thing I have is my ceremony and my dress I don't have a place for my reception or dance the places I have gone to cost way to much for me to afford so I was thinking of maybe just having it at the house my question to you is how do I do that and still make it look beautiful without going over $3,000? Is it even possible? - Jackie

Your decision to have it at your house is a great decision based on your budget. For budgeting, you need to work on your food and drink first, and with what you have left, I suggest using lots of glass enclosed candles everywhere. This will make a beautiful look throughout your home where the guests will be. Now if you want to be a bit more unique, save money AND do something your guests will really remember, you can do a cocktail party instead of a full dinner or buffet, and this will be less money and sometimes more fun! Or, you can host a dessert party later in the day, and serve all sweets and fun drinks (now that is a truly unique idea I love!) The trick for wedding spending is in using your budget creatively, without trying to do everything you think you are supposed to do (or shall I say, what everyone tells you that you have to do!) Also having it at home can really make your wedding just that: YOUR wedding, and very special and very connected to you and your fiancé by celebrating your love at your home.

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Post: Dear Mr. Tutera, Thank you so much for your fabulous show!!! My fiancé' and I are in love with you! I am writing you for two reasons; one seems to be rather unconventional. The focus is always on the bride and, "Oh it is your special day!" "What ever you want it's your day." Well it's the groom's special day as well. My fiancé' Ryan is just as excited about our wedding on 7/11/09 in Santa Barbara Ca. as I am, and I would like him to feel as special as all of your wonderful brides do. Any ideas as to what I could do to make him feel like A prince? For he truly is the prince to my princess. Also my Maids we dead set on teal for their dresses, my gown is cream any ideas on what colors I should use for flowers and linens? Thank You for your time and best regards, Lori in So Cal

I adore you for thinking of your groom! So sweet! Have him included in the wedding planning process... Many grooms love it. Bring him along for music selections, food tastings and along for other wedding decisions--as often as you think he will want to be included. Including him will make him feel special and will make him feel like your Prince.

As for flowers for the girls: Teal is a great color in fashion but a difficult color for flowers, so stick to white, cream and perhaps an accent color. I love coral and peach with teal. Roses, orchids, lilies and calla lilies are wonderful and totally available to you that time of year.

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Subject: Ideas for Reception Center Piece & Church pews

Post: I am getting married in Houston Texas in October and my colors are pink and chocolate. I would like ideas for the tables and church pews. Something reasonable that perhaps my mother and girls could make but it has to be nice. I would like something tall for the center pieces. I love how you make the girls wedding day so beautiful and special. -- Larrie

I know you may not like what I'm about to say as a flower suggestion, but wait! Hear me out! Pink carnations when used in abundance and designed in clusters look so beautiful. Take the pink carnations and make a sphere out of them. Stud them with fake diamonds you can purchase at an arts and crafts store or on-line. Then, find brown satin ribbon, and have flowing trails of the brown ribbon falling from the pink ball of flowers. You can then add pink rose petals glued to the ribbon for more color and texture. This is a great look for the church pews. I love your color scheme, by the way! Hope this is a help for you and this is something your mom and girls can do...and have fun doing!

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Subject: Very Budgeted 20's Themed Wedding (finished)

Post: Dear David, My fiancé and I are getting married in July of this year and don't come from families with much to spare so we are paying for it all ourselves. I'm sure to many people, especially you, the amount I am about to tell you will be a bit shocking. The entire wedding, and I mean attire, food, decor, favors, venue, music, and photography, etc. will come to less than $4,000.00 on the high side for 200 people. We know a lot of good people who are skilled and prepared to do a million different things for us and in a time of crisis I find I am a bit crafty myself. My question for you is are there any brilliant 1920's ideas you could share with me that could be accomplished DIY? The entire thing will be held at our church so alcohol is out (which is the biggest part of the 20's history). I am incorporating a lot of shine and sparkle with different large martini and wine glasses as the centerpieces filled with diamonds, or pearls and some floating candles. I've brought in some peacock feathers as well and a few other odds and ends but then I'm stuck. I don't know if any more can be done or if you think any of that is even a good idea. Our first dance will also be a very elaborate swing dance that should get people in the mood. We can't afford flowers except for the bouquets or linens except the plastic rolls at party stores and I don't have too much going on with our colors which are Oasis (teal) and Palm Beach Coral (kind of peach). I could use any help you can give me. -- Amanda

Amanda, I am quite impressed actually! You know the exact elements that are perfect for great a 1920s soiree. Lots of pearls (fake that is), and feathers (I would add some white plumes too.) Martini glasses are great as that was a huge element of entertaining in the 1920s. Having floating candles in martini glasses filled with water is fabulous. Take the faux pearls and have them falling from the inside of the martini glasses and onto the table. Then have lots of votive candles surrounding a martini glass in the center of the table. You can also use the martini glasses as the votive and have a larger container in the middle with the feathers bursting from the center and pearls coming out of that onto the table: this will give you a little bit more drama to the table setting. Teal and coral is very Hollywood 1920's and 1930's: it was big in fashion and interior design, too. If you have just a little bit of money, purchase yards of fabric on sale in a solid color and lay it onto the tables. You can seam them together with fabric tape from underneath. You can also hem them with the same fabric tape. I would suggest alternating color and teal from table to table. So between lots of candles, color fabric on the tables, and feathers as you said, you are truly moving in a great direction, so bravo!

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Post: Dear David, My name is Ashley I have written to you on two previous occasions. I am so happy that you have such great talent and you share hat with people of an average lifestyle. You are truly inspirational I what I like to call you masterpieces. Each wedding you have laid your hands on has become much more the marvelous. The true reason I am writing to you is that my wedding is June 20, 2009 I had a ceremony and reception hall all prepared for what I like to call my grandest dream. Everything was set. This week I received disturbing news from my fiancé as I woke up to go to school they had just laid of 150 people from his job. All of a sudden I have to call of the reception and it killed me because it was all I ever hoped for. I had to fight and sacrifice so much to get to the point i was at and in a matter of seconds my dream was shattered by the outcome of this economical crisis. I have been crying ever since but I don't want my fiancé to feel worse than he already does. Dear David what can I do I have the favors, decorations, and lights the only thing I was missing was the invitations and DJ and photographer. Even the week before I had went to David's bridal with the girls to pick and buy their dresses and now those who paid for it will only be able to wear it to the church. I can't believe everything happened so fast what is your advice I'm desperate. I've told only some of the member of my family that there wouldn't be a reception this is a big Italian family they basically look at the situation with much disappointment. I wanted a place to enjoy my beautiful wedding dress now I can only wear it to church please email me with a response if there is anyway for you to help me please. -- Pinkdov@aol.com

Take a deep breath and relax. First off, the great news is that you have your man and you are getting married. That is what must shine right now. I suggest that you have a less elaborate party, but you still have a party. You must always remember your wedding as a day of celebration and from your note, it sounds as if you only will be sad and disappointed! Have a fabulous dessert party where it's all about sweets. Get the DJ, have the girls show up in their dresses to dance away with your wonderful self, and have a party. Don't have a lot of perks, but focus on that you will be together. Have it at someone's home in the backyard. Serve some great festive drinks and then have a wonderful celebration for your 5th or 10th anniversary that can be something you can look forward to and plan that will be the big blow out celebration you have always wanted. (I've heard of lots of couples doing that--getting married because it's most important, and then throwing a great anniversary party years later when you're financially stronger as a couple.) If you call off your wedding party your guests, family and friends will be just as disappointed as you will be. I hope my words of advice can lend a bit of help, but remember you must enjoy your day and remember it as a great day, not a sad day!!!!

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Post: David I need your help! I love your shows, especially "My Fair Wedding." I'm planning my 10 year anniversary/first wedding my husband, and I wanted us to renew our vows in June 2010.When we first got married we went to justice of the peace and our son was the witness he was too young at the time, we now have three children and my older daughter keep asking me where is our wedding pictures. I felt bad because I don't have any thing to show them only my engagement ring/wedding band. My parents never remember my anniversary because they were not there at that time. We have been to so much wedding the last one was in Jamaica it was beautiful so it let me feel jealous knowing that we never have a real wedding. Know I want my wedding to be the best of all the weddings that I attended. Please David tell me where to start I need some ideas and some comments. The wedding I wanted is 'Simple and Elegant that is breath taking. -- Sophia

OK Sophia....it's time to start planning. I love that fact that you want to create the day you did not have. Create that chic, elegant and simply wonderful party now. You can still do everything from the wedding cake to the favors and of course all things in between. Create a party that echoes the elements you would traditionally have at a wedding, but this celebration--your celebration--can truly be more unique. Have fun! Send out an invitation with the wedding date being your actual wedding date, but then have a mark go through it and have the correct date. It's like you saved the original invites for this big day, and waited until now to mail them out with a new date. You must be playful with this. Think of things that were in at that time. Perhaps your first dance can be a song from ten years ago that you both love. Your kids will love this, your family and friends will love it, and most of all, you now will have something that NO one else has: a very unique memory. What is wonderful too is that you have been married all these years and have a great family to share your wedding with you.

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Subject: Please help Mother of the Groom

Post: As a prospective mother of the groom, I have certainly enjoyed your wonderful shows. My son, age 30, is marrying a wonderful girl next October. Plans are coming along nicely, but I haven't started looking for my dress. The wedding will be in a garden, with reception following on the grounds. As someone with a not so temporary weight issue, it would be ideal if I could lose a lot of weight before the wedding, but the chances of that just aren't a reality. I would love to see a show that covers dresses for those of us who are plus size mothers, and what type of dress to look for. Thank you. -- dzquilter

Well, we are starting to film season two, and I will be sure to focus on beautiful women of all sizes. Make sure when you are looking for your dress, your choices are first colors that match your season as well as your skin and hair tone. Then, once you know the right color to wear, find the right dress for your body type. Size and weight is not the answer to "What is your body type?" You need to know what cuts and dress styles make you look special and beautiful. I would also suggest wearing a wrap for the ceremony that can be later removed for the party. Also decide what you are UNcomfortable wearing... and avoid it! I want you to feel amazing in the dress you select and not self-conscious when you are on the dance floor or walking down the aisle. Confidence is key here, so wherever you shop, ask them to show you dresses that are right for you body type and not just for your size.

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Subject: Wedding on a Yacht

Post: Hi David. First, let me say how very much I enjoy watching "My Fair Wedding." Your show is great and my daughter and I have learned so many things about wedding planning. I'm in the process of helping my daughter plan her September 2010 wedding in Newport Beach, California. Both the ceremony and reception will be held onboard a yacht, with the ceremony beginning at 6:00 p.m. She's chosen eggplant as her primary color, with accents of fuchsia, light pink and sage green. So, question number one is, what would you recommend as far as flowers and colors? Secondly, what are your thoughts about wedding favors? Generally, it seems like most brides do the favor boxes with candies, etc. We're looking at approximately 200 guests and are trying to keep the costs manageable. -- lcrenshw

Great color scheme you have selected! There are eggplant mini-calla lilies that are stunning, especially along with fuchsia roses and lilies. I love jade green roses and sage orchids with soft pink roses. Soft pink/blush hydrangea is a great addition too. I love the contrast of deep colors with the soft tones, so nice job! Now for favors: I only like favors if they complete the wedding story. Perhaps it should be something related to the yacht and being on the sea. Have the favor be one that the guests will look at and remember something about the bride and groom they may not have known until they received the favor.

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Post: I never blog, but I HAD to come on and find out more about David Tutera. In response to "Nae 78", David Tutera is helping these brides realize their dreams by bringing their visions to full potential. He is also sensitive to the feelings and personalities of each girl & they are ecstatic to see what David's created. They end up with a dream of a wedding that they would've otherwise never had. I applaud you David... amazing.

My question is, Where can I get those glass floral display cases that I see on the tables. I've seen them on your personal website also. Is that something that we can get a hold of?

From: By carrie757 on January 6, 2009 9:37 PM

You are so sweet and kind! Thank you so very much! The part of the job that means the most to me is the actual listening of what each bride dreams of for her wedding. My job is to find a way to make it all come true--this is her wedding, not mine, so bringing it to life for them is what is so special.

The clear containers actually are not glass, but they are made of Lucite/plastic. I had them custom made for my designs, but you can find something similar at retailers like The Container Store. They are cubes with one open side, so make sure they are not fully sealed closed. Have fun!!!

Post:Hello David. I have watch your show and read your tips but I need some help with selecting flowers and simple elegant decor. My colors are Victorian Lilac, Lilac and Platinum. I need help selecting flowers and having accent flowers. Also, I need any suggestions for centerpieces and decorations. I am getting married at a winery in August 2009 in southern ca. The ceremony is outdoor but the reception will take place indoors in a tent pavilion. I want soft, romantic and fun feel at the reception. Any ideas to help me pull this off? I need your help desperately!!! I want my family to celebrate and enjoy this moment because we almost lost my fall at start of this year!!

From: By Key on January 25, 2009 11:40 PM

I love lilac and platinum as a color combination. Bravo! Here is a list of some flower suggestions (and by the way, these flowers, are available in your season, too!)

Hyacinth
Hydrangea
Japan Quince
Larkspur
Lily of the Valley
Magnolia
gladiolus
hollyhock
honeysuckle
phlox
purple clematis
rose
single stock
winter jasmine
zinnia

As for a look or design, I would go with "casual elegance." Use low floral creations in simple containers. I would love to see you find wood containers that keep the style more organic and natural, and go perfectly with the flowers on the list. Add some ivy, grapevine or even some fresh dark grapes to accent the flower arrangements.

Post: Hey David My name is Brenda Castillo i really love your show "My fair Weeding". I really like how you can help so much. I am actually getting married on June 13 2009 one day before my daughters Birthday and we are actually celebrating both things in one day since the party is going to end at 3:00 am. I was having so much trouble in how organizing our weeding and my daughters b-day that i couldn't concentrate in college. i am so worried on the things that are still missing for our weeding. I just want this day to be perfect. I want this day to incredible. Basically i want your opinion on what should i do?

From: By Bcastillo24 on January 24, 2009 1:21 AM

This is a special day for you, and having you also recognize your daughter's birthday is also very sweet. When you have your cake-cutting, have a second smaller cake to come out for your daughter, so together you can share a special moment that you will always remember. You can also do something totally unique--instead of making your wedding cake be one large cake, have smaller cakes come out: one cake per table of ten guests. You can sing "Happy Birthday" to your daughter with all your family and friends, and then have a smaller wedding cake brought out to you and your groom for your cake-cutting moment. Hope this helps and thank you so much for watching "My Fair Wedding." Good Luck!

Post:Hi there David, I was wondering what you used on Mandy in Episode 3 to cover up all of her tattoos. It seemed to work really well. I'm in the process of removing some of mine and if they aren't gone by my wedding I would like to use some sort of cover up. Anything you can suggest would be great.

From: Gwen

The process is actually very simple, and it truly does work. Ask your make-up artist for air brush make-up. It's a liquid make up that goes into a spray gun, and they actually spray it over the area you want to cover. Just leave yourself a bit of extra time when getting ready for you big day as the process takes time to make your skin look smooth and natural.

Post: Hey David, I'm getting married in September of 2010 and I'm just starting to look for everything. I'm not your traditional bride. I have 6 tattoos and want to show them off. I'd love to wear a black wedding gown, which I thought would be okay since this will be a second marriage for both of us. I would just like some advice on where to start.

From: Dawn Lee

Congratulations! Dawn, you have actually already started... You have a vision, which is great. Just make sure that what you decide for your gown will be something you still love when you look back at your photos in years to come. There is nothing wrong with making this wedding "totally you," and if black is what you want to do....then do it! Make sure, however, it has style and taste. Enjoy!

Post: Hey David! I LOVED you on Get Married and when I found out that you have a show on the WE network I haven't missed a single episode and I love what you did for all of the weddings. Moving on, my question for you is are guest favors a must for a wedding? Is the food, the entertainment, the cake, and atmosphere enough? I look forward to hearing back from you!

From: Molly

Thanks for following me on TV!

Favors are not a must though they are a great way to finish telling your wedding story. You see, every detail you plan for your wedding is a way of expressing and sharing your personalities and love story with your guests, so the favor should complete that story. Now, if you are looking to do favors just to do them because it's something you feel is a necessity for your wedding, then the answer to your question is NO to doing favors. Guests should love their favor (gift) and want to keep it to remember your special day (and not look to hide it or place it somewhere where they don't care about it!)

Post: Good afternoon Mr. Tutera,

I am getting married for the second time and I am wondering what is the proper etiquette for a second wedding. My fiancé and I want a very simple wedding, nothing extravagant. My parents want to pay for are wedding. Neither one of us have any children.

From: Rachel

This question comes up often, and my answer is to always remember one thing: you are marrying someone you love, and you want to share this joy by hosting a celebration. Do not feel you shouldn't do something just because it's your second wedding. Cut the cake, have fun, walk down the aisle with a smile of joy, carry an all-white floral bouquet... Now, if you want to be more unique and do things that are less traditional and more reflective of your personality, then by all means, you can do that, too! So...what I am saying is there are no rules....rules are to be broken when celebrating, so have fun!

Post: I'm getting married to the man of my dreams March 2010. Most girls can't wait to go wedding dress shopping. I'm 5 foot and 145 pounds. I feel like wedding dresses aren't made for my body type. Of course I'm going to try my hardest to lose weight for the wedding, but in the mean time, I have to find a dress. I want the dress shopping experience to be a great one, not one where I'm crying in front of the mirror because I look like the stay puff marshmallow! Plus to make it worse, I can't spend more then $1500 on a dress. Could you please tell me where I can find petite dresses and what style would look best on my body frame/type? Thank you so much. I watch your show all the time and it's great!

From: Sandra Herbst

It's hard to say what body type a person is without knowing how weight is distributed, so I would definitely ask the boutiques you are planning on seeing to show you dresses for a body type called Apple or Pear. More importantly, you need to tell them your size in advance, so when you arrive and they are aware of your needs and the experience is positive and enjoyable! I always tell my brides to make sure that they are showing you dresses that are larger then your dress size so you can step into them and they can pin or clamp them closed to make you comfortable. You need to look in the mirror and smile and feel great about you, no matter what size or shape you are. Now, $1,500 is a great budget so that should not be an issue at all. Wish I were there to help you and make sure it all goes well! Best of luck!

Post: Hi David,

I'm a big fan of My Fair Wedding --being a Long Island, NY bride, I especially love the episodes where you visit the island. Anyway, question for you - can we still be announced at the reception if we are going to be walking around during the cocktail hour? I'd prefer to get all of our "hello's" done during cocktail hour but I don't want to ruin any of the excitement when we get introduced into the reception - any suggestions? Also, what are some good songs for introducing the bridal party?

From: Kimberly

I like that you have decided to mingle during cocktail hour--That is fantastic, and it gives you more time with the ones you love. YES, it is totally OK to still be announced as husband and wife into the main room for dinner. My suggestion is, when mingling for cocktails do not carry your bridal bouquet. When you are entering into the main room, carry your bouquet then. As for the type of music, make sure it's upbeat and fun, but not crazy, loud or too high-energy as that is later for when everyone is on the floor dancing!

Post: Hey David, I want to have a tropical wedding but not tacky. I love palm trees and natural looking with bamboos. I was wondering you do you have any ideas for flowers, centerpieces or any good websites that I could get any ideas from. Thank you so much!

From: Jaime Leighton

Try to stay away from the expected tropical flowers, but still keep bright colors to add that punch of tropical style to your wedding decor. There are amazing kinds of foliage that you can accent your designs with. I still love using brightly colored roses with tropical designs to add a "wedding" feeling to the overall design. Orchids are an amazing addition as well.