Hello Loves,
As we head into the new year, I wanted to share some top wedding trends for 2025 and why I'm completely obsessed with them. From design styles to social shifts, I've gathered my absolute favorites. I'm quite curious to know which ones resonate with you, so feel free to comment below. 

1. Sustainability/Eco-Friendly Weddings
While eco-friendly weddings are nothing new, we've come a long way from the performative, sometimes condescending nature of "Going Green." Yes, there is still a certain social hierarchy associated with sustainability. However, the modern practices feel more intentional and authentic. From digital wedding stationery to vintage attire, couples are opting for a zero-waste approach. Not only is this trend good for the environment, but it fosters creativity and innovation. 
How To: The key here is authenticity. If full-on digital correspondence feels too impersonal, opt for invitations made of recycled or biodegradable materials.  If you are not into secondhand threads, secure attire made from sustainable fabrics instead. Lastly, consider hiring vendors that specialize in sustainable practices to ensure the most effective impact. 

2. Immersive Experiences
Couples are going all out to curate unique experiences for their wedding guests. Beyond an open bar or live band, creating unforgettable experiences has become a major part of wedding planning. I love the versatility and accessibility of this trend. From interactive cocktail seating charts to post-reception midnight food trucks, couples are making memorable moments guests won't soon forget. 
How to: When deciding on featured experiences, consider the overall theme of the wedding and your budget. Whether you settle on a DIY tattoo station, a custom jewelry engraving suite, or hiring a cigar roller, it should feel like a seamless addition. I always tell my clients to consider "Purpose, Practical, and Personality" to help them finalize their decision. 
Purpose: How will this experience benefit your guests or enhance the overall wedding
Practical: Assess the logistical application and ease of use
Personality: Does this represent you as a couple and or the culture of your wedding community

3. Tech-Integrated
Technology will continue to play a major role in weddings this year, both in front and behind the scenes. Expect to see hi-tech photo/video booths, flashy laser light shows, and dynamic digital DJ booths. Couples are also relying on AI to assist with the planning process. Tasks ranging from vendor sourcing to vow writing will be digitally enhanced. I love how accessible high-end planning resources have become for couples with smaller budgets through the use of AI. For more tech-inspired wedding trends, check out  Chapelle Johnson's article for The Knot. View it here:
 www.theknot.com/content/wedding-technology-trends
How To: The key to this trend is not overdoing it. Be mindful of why you are incorporating specific tech elements and how they will enhance your guests' experiences. 
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4. Bold Colors
Say goodbye to basic, boring palettes and roll out the red carpet for bold, beautiful colors. I'm always here for a rich color palette, especially for weddings. Be prepared for vibrant floral arrangements with unique accent colors and printed elements. We'll also continue to see perfectly mismatched bridesmaid's dresses. The use of colors in unexpected ways, such as flatware, stemware, and jewelry, will also be abundant this year. 
How To: Instead of choosing a color swatch to match everything back to, take the time to develop a thoughtful color palette that includes alternative shades of your main colors. Do some research to get a feel for how colors will look paired together. Lastly, if bold colors are new for you, start with something low-stakes, like a scarf. This will help you decide if it's right for your big day. 

5. Alternative Wedding Gowns
Alternative bridal attire is becoming increasingly popular. Gone are the days when wearing a bold color or pants as a bride is newsworthy. Brides have really made it a point to let their personalities shine with their wedding attire. Be on the lookout for a wide variety of options ranging from artsy and avant-garde to composed and casual.   This is exciting because comfort feeds confidence, and that is the ultimate accessory for your big day. Check out this Pinterest board for some unique bridal attire ideas: www.pinterest.com/MimiNikohlDS/alternative-wedding-dresses/
How To: Wear what you want. Wear what feels good. Wear what you'll look back on and think, I DID that!

6. Personalization
Personalization has been a major part of wedding planning for as long as I can remember. However, it has evolved substantially and is currently more comparable to product branding. As a graphic design girlie, this excites me. I love watching couples collaborate over the "branding" of their wedding. There's a beautiful intimacy that comes with artistic teamwork. Through connection and compromise, couples can create symbols of love that will be displayed throughout their wedding. From meticulously designed monograms and quirky sayings to intricate graphic art, we will see hints of personalization at every touch-point.
​How To: Consider every opportunity for personalization and choose the ones that feel authentic to you. Think about the overall presentation to keep things streamlined.

I hope you're inspired to incorporate some of these into your big day. Which trend are you most excited about?

Until Next Time,
Mimi🥰

Hello loves,
I can't believe we're already at the end of 2022! I hope this year has truly been good to all of you. If not, just a few more days to go😩. Let's close out with some tips to plan the perfect New Year Wedding...

1. Find Cute Ways to Incorporate the Theme:
When I think about celebrating the New Year, champagne is front of mind. So, in addition to a traditional champagne toast, take it a step further with these festive champagne cork escort cards (pictured above) . 

2. Put a New Spin On an Old Tradition:
Keep the ceremony on theme by simply swapping out the grains of rice for a more festive option. Sparklers, confetti cannons and metallic streamers all scream Happy New Year! Just be sure to inquire with your venue about what's permitted.

3. Do NOT Neglect The Ball Drop:
Evening weddings typically end between 11pm and 1am. For a big impact, why not end the night with an epic countdown at midnight. You can enhance the experience by releasing balloons, incorporating sparklers or confetti cannons as the countdown concludes (again, be sure to consult your venue prior to these arrangements). Even if the wedding runs past 12, you should still take the time to make this a special moment. 

​4. Photo Ops at Every Turn:
From headbands and hats to glasses and noise makers, there should be props a plenty for guests to take photos. Beyond the Photo Booth, add a few items at the guest tables so everyone can join in the fun.  Be sure to have your wedding hashtag displayed so your guests can get in on the social sharing of the evening.  

5. Festive Fashion:
While you should always establish a dress code for any wedding, formal attire adds an elegance that's perfect for a New Year Wedding. If your crowd is a little extra like us, have them dress in Black Tie or Avant-garde looks for some added flair. 

6. In the Details:
Wedding stationery is a subtle way to embrace the theme. Use this design element to add to the New Year aesthetic from the invitation suite down to the dinner menus. 

As always, I hope these tips help you plan the best New Year wedding ever!
Until next time,
Mimi☺️

Hello loves,
​Engagement season is in full swing. So, I'm excited to share some tips to help you nail that holiday proposal 💍.

1. The Feeling Should Be Mutual
Now, this should be a no brainer. Still, you'd be surprised how many people ignore this essential detail. Prior to popping the question, discuss your visions of marriage with your partner. If you're both on the same page, then, you can move forward with proposal plans.

2. Family Feedback
This one only applies if your partner desires familial approval prior to the engagement. Don't base this on what you've seen in movies or even your own family dynamics. Your partner should be consulted before you contact their family. 

3. Consider Your Partner
Even if you're planning a surprise engagement, your partner's desires should be at the forefront of the planning process. From choosing the right ring, to deciding how intimate the big moment will be, your partner's wishes should be considered the whole way through.

4. The Ring
A marriage is a mutual commitment. The ring however, is a gift for your partner. Once you begin conversations about marriage, you should simultaneously collect information about the kind of ring they'd like. In addition to the style, you should also be aware of your partner's ring size. Another important step is getting the ring insured. Unfortunate situations happen all the time. So, an item that valuable should be protected.  

5. Don't Forget the Details
Now, this may seem superficial to some. However, I think it demonstrates thoughtfulness, in this social media driven world. Be sure your partner is well put together, down to the cuticles (especially if the cameras are out). Trust me, this gesture will be greatly appreciated and make your love feel extra special. 

6. Tie in the Holiday
The holidays are the perfect time to pop the question. That's why engagement season lasts from Thanksgiving to Valentine's Day. So, why not infuse the magic of the season into the proposal? Weave the special moment into an existing holiday tradition, or use it to create a new one. Incorporating those festive elements into the proposal will definitely make the experience more memorable. 

7. Secure the Ring
Guess how many engagement rings are at the bottom of the ocean. Too many! When choosing the perfect destination for your engagement, be sure to consider ALL the possibilities. Take the necessary precautions to safeguard that ring! If the conditions are really high risk, consider a stand-in ring. While you don't need to spend tons of money on a custom replica, the stand-in should be very similar to the real thing. 
​
8. Document the Moment  
Whether it be filmed or just a detailed journal entry, be sure to keep a record of this most precious moment. Trust me, one day further down the road, you'll be asked to recount the events of that day and you'll be surprised how many details you have forgotten. Seriously, whenever I ask my clients how they met, I always get a kick out of how much their stories differ. So, take the necessary steps to preserve the memory and enjoy it for years to come.

I hope you feel more confident in planning your proposal. Congratulations in advance!
Until Next Time,
Mimi ☺️

Photo by Tara Winstead from Pexels 

Hey, you guys!
I hope your new year is off to an amazing start. If you, or someone you know is recently engaged, please check out this list of things to consider before you start planning your big day.
​View it below. 💍

1. ENJOY YOUR ENGAGEMENT
Congratulations, you’re engaged. Enjoy it! So many couples jump right into wedding planning after getting engaged. Don’t make this mistake. Your engagement is a big deal. Bask in this moment. Kiss each other a million times. Take tons of photos posing with your ring. Also, document all the details of your proposal, to enjoy for years to come.

2. SHARE THE GOOD NEWS
It’s time to spread the word. Be sure to personally tell those closest to you, before you post on social media or send an announcement to the paper.

3. SET THE DATE
​The question everyone will be asking (including the wedding vendors). While it doesn’t have to be set in stone just yet. Choose some perspective dates of when you’d like to tie the knot.

4. DEFINE YOUR STYLE
​Once you’ve settled on some dates, you should decide on your wedding style. Will your cultures and, or religion, play a major role? Will the affair be more formal or casual? How many guests will you invite? these are all things to consider at this stage.

5. SET YOUR BUDGET
​Before you spend a dime, set your wedding budget! Start by finding a sample budget breakdown online (wedding costs vary widely from state to state). Then, review your finances. Also. be sure to find out if your parents would like to contribute, or gift a particular item. Once you have all of the numbers in front of you,you can create a savings plan (if necessary).

6. CHOOSE YOUR WEDDING PARTY
​A decision not to be taken lightly. Each member of your wedding party has a special role to play in your big day. So, choose those who not only want the best for you, but are able to commit to their duties as well.

7. FIND YOUR PLANNING COMMUNITY
​We highly suggest hiring a professional wedding planner. If not, at least a coordinator to manage your wedding day. In addition to the professionals, join an online wedding community. Zola, is one of our favorites.There is plenty of information, and so many resources out there to help you plan the perfect wedding.

Hello Loves!
Today we're closing out the Valentine's Day blog with this charming table for two. This simple, inexpensive tablescape is perfect for a quiet night in with your love. The understated design allows you to keep the focus on each other, and maybe ask  a special question...