After deciding who your bridesmaids are comes the actual asking part. It can be as formal or as casual as you’d like to make it but how you ask sets the tone for your big day. It gives everyone a little insight into what sort of bride you’ll be.

Here are some different ways to go about asking:

Host a happy hour at your place for your potential bridesmaids. Some hors d’oeuvres and wine is the perfect way to go. Your guests will feel relaxed and will be thrilled when you ask them to be a part of your wedding. If you want to do a little something extra, give a little gift at your gathering. Anything from a handmade bracelet to a personalized card for each of them will be totally appreciated.

If your bridal party is fairly small or if you have some extra time, do something special and sentimental with each of your girls while you ask them. If the two of you grew up in the same neighborhood, take a walk around it together and ask her then. If two of you share the same favorite restaurant, take her to lunch and ask her over a chicken panini. Whatever the activity, seize the opportunity to rekindle an old memory with her.

Have a good ol’ fashioned sleepover where you talk drama and gossip in your pajamas. This is a sure way to bring all your ladies together and have a Friday evening full of food and fun. You can even supply party favors with little notes inside that say, “Will you be my bridesmaid!?” (or something a little more creative). Your guests will love it, especially if the bag contains sweets!

Put on a picnic. Everyone loves finger food and picnics are super easy, super relaxed and super cheap. A simple basket containing cheese, crackers and some fruit is a surefire way to please everyone on any sunny afternoon. You can even kick it up a notch and play some games if you and the girls are in the mood. Volleyball anyone?

Whatever way you choose to ask your bridesmaids, make sure it showcases your personality. Your wedding day is about you, but what would it really be without your closest friends and family?

- Stephanie

Summer is just around the corner and for all you brides-to-be, flowers are one of many ways you can go green. Buying from farmers markets, local flower farms and even street vendors is a great way to save money and the environment.

Locally buying bundles of everything from peonies to lavender ensures your flowers are not only fresh, but that each of your bouquets and/or centerpieces will turn out different. Putting together your own flowers also allows you the freedom to arrange them how you want. It may take some extra time, but the gorgeousness will be well worth it.

And keep an eye out for any extras you could use — lemons for the insides of your vases or peaches to accentuate your table decorations. You’ll be supporting your community and getting fabulously fresh decorations.

This bride added in some rosemary to her centerpieces… yum!

Rosemary Covered Flowers (Kristin Grinnell)

Gorgeous bouquets you could either keep the same or combine in different ways.

Farmers Flowers (Unknown)

After spending weeks, months, or even years planning your wedding, the day is finally over and the honeymoon is on the horizon! But if you’re like most brides who have been consumed with final dress fittings and confirmation phone calls, selecting your honeymoon wardrobe hasn’t exactly been a top priority.

Whether the two of you plan on sunbathing on the beaches of Cabo San Lucas or navigating your way through Europe, your clothing selections should be weather-appropriate, fuss free and comfortable. Your new hubby will hate nothing more than seeing and hearing you complain about your pack job.

The honeymoon is the start of your lives together, so why not look fabulous in the gazillion pictures you’ll be taking together! You’ll be happy you put some thought into that ruffled bathing suit or flowered mini sundress. Here are some of my destination-influenced picks.

Hanging Loose in Hawaii:

Hawaii Dress – An exotic dress to dine in

Hawaii Bathing Suit- A girly way to tan on the tropical island

A Mexican Fiesta:

Mexico Blouse – Vibrant colors make this a perfect daytime look

Mexico Sandals – Easy to dance and walk in, these sandals just scream “Mexico!”

Backpacking Europe:

Europe Everyday Dress – An everyday dress when you’re on the move

Europe Flats – Comfortable and cute flats to walk the town in

Cruising the Caribbean:

Caribbean Romper – A perfect romper for the windy deck

Caribbean Bathing Suit – A classy way to sunbathe

All cloths curtosy of Anthropologie

Everyone knows lingerie is a big part of the honeymoon. Everyone also knows there’s a fine line between classy and not so classy negliges.

Whether you want a feisty or sophisticated collection for the steamy nights ahead, make sure you A. feel sexy in what you’re wearing and B. your choices are a reflection of you. If you usually have more of an edge to you, your new hubby will be a little taken aback if you show up with pink frills and lace.

Here are some tasteful ways to be naughty and nice.