It’s almost impossible to ignore. The royal wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton is not just the talk of the town, it’s the talk of the world. If you don’t know the latest news about the impending nuptials, you probably haven’t seen a newspaper, listened to the radio, spent time online or watched TV in the last 24 hours. The question is—are you excited or do you wish it would just go away?

I imagine many brides-to-be here in the US are putting their inspiration boards together at this very moment, using photos and images of anything and everything that will be included in wedding, like the invitations, her gown (a surprise until Friday!), the venues, the china and tabletop, her bridesmaid dresses, etc. Needless to say, I’m on the edge of my seat waiting to see the wedding favors for this big British bash.

Until then, I can give you some terrific ideas for adding a royal touch to your wedding plans with elegant favors inspired by a small detail in the House of Windsor coat of arms. As you know, Windsor is the last name of the royal family, but since we’re all on a first-name basis with this particular family, it’s easy to forget.

If you look closely at the coat of arms, you’ll see a crown of red and gold just above the shield, and the crown has a lion standing above it. Inside the crown are two gold fleur-de-lis—a centuries-old symbol of royalty and honor. Kate Aspen designers have used the “lily flower” (fleur-de-lis in English) to create a stunning collection of favors for you.

You can choose from a rich-looking chrome spreader, a gleaming metal bookmark, lovely scented soap, an aristocratic bottle stopper, a regal place card/photo holder, frosted-glass photo coasters and an exquisite frosted-glass tea light holder.

You can be sure I’ll be up at 4AM Eastern time to take in the festivities from beginning to end. Let me know if you need me to give you a wake-up call that morning so you can tune in, too! After the wedding, I’d love to hear your impressions! Loved it? Not so much? Can’t wait to hear from you!

Happy Planning!

Metallics are fiery hot this season—silver, bronze, platinum, copper and gold—shining, shimmering and so darn dazzling, your guests might have to wear shades! If you want to go for the gold, I have a few winning ways to put the pedal to the metal—a cliché that gives me the perfect place to start—your wedding shoes.

Fancy Footwear

Just stepping on the aisle speeds you toward a whole new life. Even if you wear a traditional white wedding gown, it’s easy to flash a glimmer of gold as you strut to the altar. Take a look at these toe-toppers!

A Gilded Gown

It’s all about you, you know! If you want to strike wedding gold, get a gown with some glitter. Do you really want to see jaws drop? Go with a gold gown from top to bottom. To meld metal with tradition, look for a white or ivory gown with gold Swarovski crystals or gold bead accents on the bodice and/or the skirt. Add gold-and-diamond jewelry or wear a tiara or hair combs with some gold here and there. Ask your make-up designer to highlight your eyes with shimmering gold. When it comes to the golden touch, you decide where and how—save-the-date cards, invitations, your bouquet!

Treasures on the Table

The beauty of gold is that it goes well with virtually any color you choose to pair it with. Black and gold, white and gold—both classics in wedding reception table décor! Partner trending wedding colors with gold to see which duo takes your breath away.

A Favor with Flair

Show guests you and your groom have a heart of gold! Thank them with stunning favors that give them a little gold of their own to take home.  Here’s where Kate Aspen shines! One of these three favors—the Mini Gold Chair Favor Box, “Beautifully Beaded” Gold Place Card/Photo Holder, and the spectacular “Golden Brocade” Photo Coasters—is all you need to complete your golden moment!.

Happy Planning!

Creating your very own signature cocktail is an excellent way to personalize the reception and save money on the bar tab versus having a fully stocked bar. Guests will appreciate the creativity and the opportunity to enjoy a different beverage chosen or created by the bride and groom. But, don’t let your designing ways stop at the bar. Add a signature favor to the mix! Created by you, these do-it-yourself favors will be the perfect complement to your one-of-a-kind celebration. Whether you decide to keep the recipes the same or add your special touch, here are a few favor-and-cocktail combos that we think work well together.

Inspired by the blooms of spring and the vibrant color they bring, our Gerber Daisy boxes can complement the color of the cocktail and the wistful joy of the French Martini.

What You Need

How to Make It

Warm colors warm the soul! Perfect for fall weddings, the Alpine Manhattan will delight your guests’ senses with rich color and an orange twist just as much as the Autumn Elegance favor box shares your warmest appreciation… because generosity is always in season!

What You Need

How to Make It

Inspired by the islands, both the drink and the design of this beach wedding favor are as cool as a summer breeze. Gracing your guests with gratitude, they’re both topped off with a sprig of greenery and are designed to make your guests feel right at home on the shore.

What You Need

How to Make It

Cocktails courtesy of Jonathan Pogash/The Cocktail Guru. Favors from Kate Aspen, of course!

Happy Planning!