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an affair to remember
Color, lighting, fabrics, & flowers… they can all work together to set a scene that will take your guests’ breath away.

Brides are always looking to keep up with the latest trends and create an event like no other. Along with the help from a few experts, they'll find that when it comes to creating the perfect atmosphere, the possibilities are endless.

First, try to envision the look you want. Today's brides are decorating their reception sites as elaborately and elegantly as budgets allow, and with a style unheard of a decade ago.

Be certain to inquire with your reception site regarding restrictions before selecting any decorations. It is also essential to find out what items the facility may have on hand and what you will need to provide yourself or with the aid of a rental company.

LET THERE BE LIGHT

Flowers are just one -- albeit hugely important -- decorating tool. But they aren't the only decorations in town and they don't have to be the only one at the wedding either. According to your taste and overall wedding theme and style, try to incorporate other options as well.

Designers agree that lighting plays a key role in setting the mood for both your ceremony and reception. Lighting has the amazing ability to transform any site into a beautiful locale, or create a specific mood. Consider hiring a professional company to create an atmosphere of unsurpassed elegance with specialty lighting. Highlight your head table, guests of honor, cake and decorations with rich colors and exciting patterns of light. Blanket the ceiling with twinkling stars.

Candles are another perfect romantic lighting option. Try placing candles on each table and throughout the room. There are so many stunning and affordable variations out there today that you can color-coordinate candles with your dress and flowers.

Ribbons and bows can be attached to chair backs, wrapped around vases, mounted on the walls at regular intervals, and otherwise used to wrap up the general " look." Use a variety of colors around cloth napkins for a spontaneous, festive look.

Add lively touches with little white lights, greenery, pieces of nature and/or theme-related artifacts. Try to tie your theme into your decorations. If it applies, include the season as a theme using Christmas trees in winter, and bright fall leaves in autumn.

PUT THEM ON ICE

Try doing something a little different  to impress your guests - find out if your reception hall creates ice sculptures or if you can hire someone to bring one in.

Many sculptors will let you make up your own personalized design to customize the sculpture to your wedding. Ask the sculptor about special bases, accent lighting, and pick up and delivery times. The sculpture should be set up about an hour before your reception starts to ensure that the ice won't start melting too soon. Also have the sculptor get in touch with your florist to coordinate the ferns and flowers at the base of the sculpture with your other floral decorations.

UNDER COVER

Chair covers create a romantic ambiance that enhance the reception facility by adding elegance and class.  With dozens of designs to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect cover to create the ideal impression.  The cloth materials varies from satin, brocade, poly, to a modern stretch material. Colors range from the solid colors to creative patterns like florals and exotic safari prints.

Cost shouldn't be the most prohibitive factor when it comes to making the decision to have chair covers. Cost is determined by the type you choose - be it full or partial coverage.  Extras such as colored bows  and satin bands are an option, not a necessity.

Most importantly, make sure you order the right size cover for the type of chairs at your hall.  Some fabrics stretch to fit chairs and others don't.  It's imperative that you or your rental company visit the facility and test the covers personally to ensure a perfect fit. 

No matter what style chair cover you choose, they truly add warmth and beauty to any room. They're guaranteed to make an impression that will last a lifetime.

EVENT RENTAL

Use rental companies as a source of ideas when it comes to decorating your site. Today, rental companies provide more than tables, chairs and dance floors. Some also rent fine china, glassware, flatware, linens, candleabras and more.

When selecting a rental company, discuss in detail the total color scheme and style of your wedding.  Encourage suggestions. The experts should have lots of good ideas. Find out if there will be delivery charges, setup and takedown costs, when the items are due back, and who is responsible for cleaning and returning the equipment. Make sure that if you can't get it back on the day that you agreed upon, that you make arrangements with the rental company or they will charge you for every extra day.

Be aware that when your items are delivered it will be unloaded near the truck. If you want it carried into the house or to the back yard, you must notify the rental company in advance and there may be an extra charge for this service.

Most companies require a 25% deposit when an order is placed and cash upon delivery.  During the summer months rental equipment is in high demand, so try to select a rental company at least four to six months in advance. Confirm exact times of delivery and pickup the week before to be sure you have everything necessary for a successful and memorable day.

With a clear picture of what you want in mind and the help of a decorator with an established name who can guarantee quality service, you can achieve the desired look for your reception. This is your opportunity to make your big day truly unique.

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