Mandy Phalen, owner of Event Studio, was interviewed by KC Weddings magazine and shared tips on ways to personalize your wedding throughout this 6-page article. “You want something that carries throughout, whether it’s a monogram or a design element (like a snowflake) or even a color,” says Mandy. Don’t stop at printed materials when using your motif. “Lighting is very inexpensive, and it adds a different flair to your ceremony,” says Phalen. “You can cast your monogram or embellishment on the dance floor with a gobo light,” a type of light commonly used to create a pattern. And lighting isn’t limited to projecting motifs. Phalen worked with one couple who had taken an engagement picture that was “very sleek and sexy,” and she projected it on a wall at the reception. “‘That was the feel of their wedding. It’s about thinking outside of the box on some of these things,” she says, noting that using a framed version of the same picture on the guest book table would not have had nearly the same effect.

When it comes to kids, dressing well for a wedding is really important. The key is to strike a balance between looking formal and feeling comfortable. Boys can opt for a suit or dress pants paired with a button-down shirt and a tie to match the wedding colors. Girls can wear a cute dress or a skirt and blouse combination. It’s important to choose fabrics that are breathable and not too restrictive. Visit Pastelcollections.com and check our Occasion wear catalog.