Divine Decorum: Expert Advice for Parties and Weddings

Q: With my wedding just around the corner, I went dress shopping with my mother-in-law and when she showed me her pick I was honestly horrified! I couldn’t imagine an uglier dress. How can I tell her that the dress is a no-go without offending her?

-Liz, Barrington, IL

A: Dressing the mothers can be a tricky territory. They shouldn’t fade into the background in a beige dress, nor should they look like they’re trying to steal the spotlight…which I am sure your MIL is not trying too. We want your mother and MIL to feel comfortable and attractive in what they’ve chosen. Explain in a gentle way that their dress will be in many of the pictures and their dresses should not hinder the look of the bridesmaids and you. Also explain that they need to be in this dress all day/night.

Q: I am planning my mother’s 75th birthday celebration and I’m afraid I’ve put all of the budget towards the food and alcohol. With only enough money to create a
centerpiece for $20 a piece what would you recommend I do? I’ve heard DIY flowers can be really risky and turn out terribly.

-Natalie, Algonquin, IL

A: Planning a party can be difficult when on a tight budget; sometimes we don’t realize just how much money is going to each service. I will agree that DIY can be risky, especially in the case of bouquets and large floral statement pieces. There are, however, options for you! Go to your local grocery store that has a floral department or check in with your local florist. Many times they’re willing to work in a specific budget if you tell them what type of colors you’re looking for. Seasonal flowers can decrease the cost greatly, and always look for innovative ways to use foliage to create a more impressive size.

Q: I would like to plan something really special when I ask my girlfriend to marry me over the holiday season. I already know where I’m going to propose: the place we went for our first date, an ice skating rink near my home. What would you recommend are some steps to take to make this night unforgettable?

-Dan, Chicago, IL

A: It’s so nice that you want to make sure your girlfriend has the best proposal ever. Since you sound like you may want to do something more over-the-top, I would recommend looking into an event planner or proposal planner in the area to work with you and provide ideas once he or she knows a little more about your history with your girlfriend. If that seems a little outside your vision, just remember that there’s nothing wrong with an intimate evening at a nice restaurant and getting down on one knee!

Have a question for Christina? Call 224.558.1764 or email Christina@christinacurrieevents.com.