Ask the Bridal Extravaganza

Weddings are wonderful, happy occasions that can be chaotic and overwhelming to plan. Every couple wants the celebration to reflect their own personality, but with all the countless choices, everyone has questions and doubts. So how do you plan a wedding where everything goes smoothly? As a way to put everyone’s mind at ease, the Bridal Extravaganza Show gathered the top wedding experts in the Houston area to answer your how-to questions and give you the best ideas and advice.

Q: I am arranging transportation for myself, the groom, our wedding party and both sets of parents. What is the traditional schedule of events? Does a limo pick up the groomsmen and his parents, or do they get to the church on their own? Who rides with the bride … her parents, just the father or the bridesmaids?

A: It has been my experience that the limo first picks up the bride and her party to take them to the church. The vehicle then goes to get the groom and groomsmen, and after the ceremony takes the bride and groom to the reception facility. The parents usually get to the church on their own, but another option is to arrange sedan service.

An economical option is to book a one-way transfer. It will pick you up at your location and take you to the hotel. – Shawn J. Kogan, Black Tie Limousine Service

Q: Should the groom’s boutonniere have to match the bride’s flowers?

A: It is traditional for the groom’s boutonniere to match the bride’s bouquet and for the groomsmen’s to match the bridesmaids’. There are so many different trends popping up everywhere these days, it is not necessary for the boutonniere to match. The choice is a personal preference!

– Christina, Fresh Blooms of Houston

Q: The past few wedding invitations I’ve received directions and a map to the church and reception. Is this absolutely necessary?

A: Although it may not be absolutely necessary for everyone, the trend for most brides is to include as much information for their guests as possible. For those from out of town, directions or maps are particularly helpful.

– Cassandra, Joli Parti Paperie

Q: I’m having a hard time finding a song for the mother/son dance. My fiancés’ mother passed away and he will be dancing with his sister. What songs are appropriate?

A: That’s a great question. Some good choices are: “What a Wonderful World,” by Louis Armstrong, “Because You Love Me,” by Celine Dion, “Unforgettable,” by Nat King Cole and Natalie Cole, and “There You’ll Be,” by Faith Hill. I can come up with more appropriate choices once I know a little about the groom’s musical taste.

– Jeff, DJ’s Unlimited

Please submit any wedding questions to info@bridalextravaganzashow.com.