Making honeymoon plans: fun, but details are important

The weather here in New England is cold and wintery this week, so let’s thing about something much more fun: planning your honeymoon. Preferably somewhere warm!

Palm trees and ocean views for your honeymoon?

Looking forward to the two of you relaxing on your honeymoon to celebrate your new life, and recover from all that wedding planning? Of course you are! But you should plan your honeymoon carefully, too, so that it is relaxing and enjoyable!

Do your research. Once you’ve chosen a honeymoon destination, do a little research. Are you going to an all-in-one resort? Read the fine print; there are often options that are not included in your base price. You don’t want to be surprised when the bill comes!

Check to see what documentation you will need. In you’re traveling out of the US, you’ll need a passport. Check with the Department of State to ensure you have everything you need to enter another country as well as come back when your vacation is over. Also check to see if you need any immunizations before you leave!

Pay attention to changes in the area you plan to visit. If you’re traveling abroad, there’s always the chance of a change in political situation, even in a previously-stable country. And no matter where you go, keep an eye on your weather forecasts as you get closer to your departure date.

And, as always, make reservations in the name that is on your identification, even if you’re planning on changing your name. Unless you are delaying the start of your honeymoon for several weeks, or longer, you won’t have time to change your name legally before your trip.

Then, you get to have fun, take lots of pictures, and enjoy the start of your new life together! 

Newly engaged? Here are some tips to get your wedding planning started

Are you one of the lucky couples who got engaged over the holidays? Or, now that the holidays are over, you’re ready to attack wedding planning with no other distractions? I’ve got some tips for you to get your wedding prep started!

Did someone pop the question? 

Figure out your priorities. Sit down together and decide what parts of your wedding are the most important. Is it a religious ceremony? A great reception with an incredible band? Having all of your friends and family with you? Or a small, intimate event? You need to decide what the two of you want before you can start making decisions.

Know your budget. How much do you have to spend? Are the two of you paying for everything? Are either of your families helping? Don’t assume! As awkward as talking about money can be, you need to be clear on what your limits are.

Put together your guest list. This, along with your budget, will determine the types of venues you’re looking for.

Get organized. Whether it’s an app on your phone or a book-style organizer, pick what works for you. Even the smallest weddings need a little organization!

Take breaks. Of course your wedding is going to be at the top of your list, but it’s important to sit back and relax sometimes, too. Don’t let wedding planning get in the way of enjoying your time as an engaged couple. Go out to dinner, and talk about things other than the wedding. Spend time with your friends and family, too. Your wedding organizer will be there when dinner’s over!

What you can expect from the Southbury Bridal Show

Happy 2016, everyone, and congratulations to all the couples who got engaged over the holidays! To help you plan your wedding, the Heritage Hotel is hosting the annual Southbury Bridal Show from noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, March 6.

What can you expect from our bridal show? A lot of information from area vendors, plenty of food, and lots of fun!

First things first: you should pre-register at www.thesouthburybridalshow.com if you’re planning on attending. The show is free to attend, but pre-registered brides and grooms are guaranteed a copy of "The Little Blue Book" to help plan their wedding!  

On the day of the show, you should bring a notepad and pen so you can jot notes about each vendor. If you’re planning on leaving your information with them, print some address labels with the information you want to give out – usually your wedding-planning email address, name and phone number. It will save you a ton of time writing it down, and you don’t have to worry about whether or not your handwriting is legible!

Feel free to bring anyone who’s helping you with decisions: your sweetheart, parents, siblings, wedding party, and more!

We can’t wait to see you there!