Lifestyle

Lifestyle

Survival Preparation: The Ultimate Guide for Special Forces in Extreme Environments

April 22, 2024 — by Richard Dawson

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The world of Special Forces operations is a crucible of challenge. Beyond the battlefield, Special Forces troops routinely operate in some of the most unforgiving environments imaginable: scorching deserts, bone-chilling arctic wastelands, dense and disease-ridden jungles, or treacherous mountain ranges. These austere environments present unique demands far beyond the typical soldier’s experience.

Lifestyle

Sole Searching: How to Choose the Right Boots for Every Occasion

February 26, 2024 — by Richard Dawson

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People are visual creatures. We tend to make assumptions about someone’s personality, tastes and overall aspirations in life based on their outward appearance. Although we are often told to not judge the book by its cover, we must agree that there is a direct correlation between the way we choose to present ourselves through our outfits and our character. For instance, wearing the right boots for an occasion can directly impact how we feel about ourselves, conveying messages about overall taste and profession.

If you are currently on the search for the perfect pair of boots for an occasion you’ve come to the right place. To help you select the right boots that align with your unique taste we’ve compiled a list of features you should pay attention to when shopping for boots. From purchasing from a reputable brand to finding the right size and design, each aspect will give you key insights to help you make a more informed decision.

Lifestyle

Taking RCing to New Heights: FlySky Transmitters and Receivers – High-Quality, Affordable Control Systems

February 13, 2024 — by Richard Dawson

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Regardless of whether you’re a licensed commercial drone pilot or just a serious RC enthusiast, there’s one thing that every radio-controlled operator can agree on: the importance of having high-quality transmitting equipment. You can have the best car, drone, or boat on the market, but without a controller that’s capable of conveying your commands and giving you palm-felt feedback, you’re probably missing out on a lot of what your preferred RC platform has to offer.

Lifestyle

Art Studio Upgrade: Essential Steps for Enhancing Your Creative Space

November 29, 2023 — by Valeriya Vimon

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For an artist, their art studio is a haven where ideas take shape and creativity finds its purest expression. Upgrading it can greatly enhance your creative environment and workflow, ultimately increasing your productivity. Having a neat space that is well-organised, truly yours and designed in a manner that speaks to you will inspire and motivate you. 
Whether you’re an experienced artist or just starting, this guide can help you redefine your art studio, empowering you to reach your full potential. By following essential steps, you can transform this space into a true reflection of your artistic spirit, creating an environment where your creativity thrives.Set Clear Upgrade Goals
The first step of your art studio upgrade is to set clear and realistic goals. Assess what aspects of your studio need improvement, whether it’s optimising lighting, enhancing storage, or refining the layout. Clarify your vision for a more efficient, inspiring workspace. 
Setting these upgrade goals provides a roadmap, guiding your decisions and investments throughout the process. It helps prioritise enhancements and make the most of your resources. Whether aiming for increased functionality or a more personalised touch, clear objectives lay the foundation for a successful and satisfying studio transformation, ensuring each step aligns with your envisioned creative haven.

Lifestyle

Boating 101: The Complete Guide to Navigation Lights

May 9, 2023 — by Richard Dawson

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There are some boating accessories that you just can’t do without. Boat lights fall squarely into this category and serve to navigate your way through troubled or congested waters, or simply tell everyone else your location, the type of vessel you’re operating, and where you’re heading. Safety is a concern in Australian waterways, harbours, rivers and open oceans, so being equipped with the legal necessities goes a long way in being seen and seeing other watercraft nearby.

The Types of Navigation Boat Lights

When Should You Use Navigation Lights on a Boat?
source: driveaboatcanada.ca

Lights used in marine navigation can be grouped into 4 categories: port and starboard sidelights, masthead, stern and all-around lights. These shine in a range of colours (red, green or white), are located in different parts of the vessel, and inform others in the vicinity of the type of watercraft, whether it is anchored, underway or engaged in some type of activity. Clear laws are set out relating to the use of navigation lights, concerning placement, orientation, and how far in the distance they need to shine.

Sidelights

Port sidelights shine red and are placed on the port (left) side of the vessel. The legislation states that they need to be visible at an angle of 122.5 degrees. Starboard lights are placed on the starboard side (right) and shine green. In terms of how far they need to shine, there are different rules for differently-sized vessels. Boats under 12 metres in overall length, must have sidelights that can be seen from a distance of 1 nautical mile. Larger boats and those that exceed 12 metres must have lights visible from at least 2 nautical miles.

There are different options for boat owners. For instance, for smaller boats, buyers can go with single port and starboard lights, or bi-directional navigation lights to save some cash. And if space is an issue there are also vertically or horizontally-mounted options available.

Masthead and Stern Lights

Vessel navigation lights
source: transportsafety.vic.gov.au

Masthead lights go higher up the mast and shine a bright white light to the front of the watercraft. They need to cover the angle fo both sidelights, or 225 degrees and be seen from a distance of 2 nautical miles in boats under 12 metres, and 5 nautical miles in larger vessels.

Stern lights are affixed to the stern and have beams shining at 135-degree angles. Like masthead options these too are white. Together, they must create a visible full circle of 360 degrees. And as with sidelights, both types come in varying shapes, sizes and mounting options.

All-around Lights and Other Variants

Use all-around 360-degree white/yellow or tri-colour lights that can be seen from 2 nautical miles away between sunset and sunrise and fitted to the top of the mast to inform others of the direction the boat is going. Other options here are tri-colour lights used in sail and smaller boats without motors. Tow lights placed near the stern are 135-degree types shining a bright yellow and often used on tug boats, while blue lights can be seen on different types of patrol and law enforcement vessels.

Power vs Sail Boats

Sailboat vs Powerboat
source: lifeofsailing.com

Laws govern how different lights need to be used in different boats. Powerboats that are underway need to have both sidelights on, as well as masthead and stern lights no less than one metre from the sidelights. Smaller boats also require an all-around light and sidelights if possible. All vessels, when anchored will have their all-around lights on.

Sailboats are a little different in that they must have separate sidelights and a stern light, and larger sailboats can include green and red lanterns combined with a masthead light.

What to Look for When Buying

When buying navigation lights, you’ll need to pay attention to the type of vessel they’re meant for (how far they shine), the build and materials used, and the type of lighting tech. Lights for smaller boats will be entirely different from larger commercial vessels, fishing trawlers or sailboats, both in how they fit, the build quality and how much they cost. Vessels under 7 metres (like dinghies, canoes and kayaks) only need an all-around light or a simple torch. Those craft that are exceptionally big (over 60 metres), may also require more than a few lights of the same type. The goal is for the best possible visibility.

Build also plays a part in performance and durability. Look for quality housings and lens arrays that will last against impact and corrosion. Mounts also should be resistant to sea spray and rust-free. In terms of lighting tech, LEDs can be more colour-accurate, use less power, and have longer overall operating times than traditional bulbs. Plus, most offer better brightness and are easier to adjust to get the right orientation. While they are somewhat more expensive, you’ll know they’ll last longer.

Marine lights can be found in stores specialising in boats and boating accessories. Besides the fact that they’re legal requirements, lights aren’t particularly dear (when compared to all else on offer), but fulfil a safety task that makes boating anywhere and anytime a carefree pleasure.

Lifestyle

Steps to Choosing the Perfect Wedding Ring

March 17, 2023 — by Valeriya Vimon

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With so much planning to do for your big day, it’s easy to overlook one of the most important details – the wedding ring. This item will be a symbol of your love and commitment for years to come, so it’s important to choose one that you’ll cherish forever. So how can you pick the ideal option when there are so many out there?

No worries! In this post, I’ll guide you through the steps to selecting the ideal ring that suits your style, budget, and most importantly, yours and your partner’s taste. So, whether you’re a traditionalist, minimalist, or trendsetter, read on to discover top tips for choosing the perfect ring!

Metal

a pair of wedding rings
Source: spaceweddingrings.com

When browsing through the beautiful wedding rings in Australia, you’ll notice a variety of designs, from classic and simple to more unique and intricate. One thing that stands out about these jewellery pieces is the quality of the materials. They use high-grade metals, such as 18k gold and sterling silver, which means that they’re not only beautiful but also durable and long-lasting.

You can choose from a variety of metals, as well as different finishes and textures. This way you can make it your own and create a piece of jewellery that’s unique to you.

Another thing that stands out about these wedding rings is the attention to detail. The designs are intricate and beautiful, with unique touches that make each one special. Whether you’re looking for a classic solitaire diamond ring or a more modern and edgy design, there’s something for everyone.

One of the most popular metals for wedding rings in Australia is gold. This is a classic choice that’s been used for centuries. It’s a soft and malleable metal that can be shaped into intricate designs and is available in a variety of colours, including yellow, white, and rose gold. However, because it’s a relatively soft metal, it can be prone to scratching and bending over time.

Silver is another popular metal that’s relatively soft and malleable, which makes it easy to work with and shape into intricate designs. It’s a more affordable option compared to gold or platinum, which makes it a great choice for people on a budget.

Style

Next, what are the different styles of wedding rings? This is a piece of jewellery that you’ll be wearing every day for the rest of your life, so you want it to reflect your personal taste and style. There are a wide variety of styles out there to choose from, so it’s important to do a little bit of research before making your final decision:

-Minimalist wedding rings are a great option for those who prefer a more understated, subtle look. These often feature clean lines, simple designs, and a focus on the beauty of the metal itself. They’re usually versatile and complement a variety of personal styles. For example, if you tend to wear more casual clothing or prefer a minimalist aesthetic in general, a minimal ring is a great way to tie everything together without overwhelming your overall look.

-Another popular style is the classic solitaire, which features a single diamond or other precious stone set in a simple band. This style is elegant and timeless, and it’s perfect for those who prefer a more traditional look;

-If you’re looking for something a little more unique, there are plenty of other styles to consider as well. For example, you might choose a ring with a vintage-inspired design, featuring intricate filigree or other decorative elements. Or you might go for a more modern look featuring clean lines.

Is It Ethically Made?

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Source: theprinceofgold.com

Ethical considerations are an important factor to keep in mind when buying a ring. By choosing an ethical wedding ring, you’ll feel good about your purchase and know that the item is not only beautiful but also made in a way that aligns with your values. So be sure to do your research, ask questions, and choose a jeweller who shares your commitment to ethical and sustainable practices.

Are You Allergic to Metals?

If you or your partner have a metal allergy or sensitivity, it’s important to choose wedding rings that are hypoallergenic to avoid any discomfort or allergic reactions. There are several metals that are known to be hypoallergenic, meaning they are less likely to cause an allergic reaction in most people. These include gold, sterling silver, titanium, stainless steel, and platinum, which are all popular choices for this jewellery.

One thing to keep in mind is that even if a metal is considered hypoallergenic, there is still a chance of a reaction. So, look for designs that are also labelled as “irritant-free”. Everyone’s body chemistry is different, so it’s always a good idea to try on different types of rings and see how your skin reacts before making a final decision.

What’s Your Budget?

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Source: fuhaosidney.com

Lastly, it’s important to have a clear idea of how much you’re willing and able to spend, as wedding rings range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. More intricate or ornate designs will generally be more expensive than simple, minimalist designs.

If you’re on a budget, consider choosing a simpler design or one with fewer diamonds or gemstones. After all, many people today are choosing minimalist or non-traditional designs that eschew the large diamond in favour of a simpler, more understated design. These can be just as beautiful and meaningful as more traditional designs and they’re even more versatile and practical for everyday wear!

Lifestyle

Mix Pain with Pleasure: 5 Kinky Sex Toys to Heat Things Up

January 9, 2023 — by Richard Dawson

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In case you never tried spicing your sex life up, there are endless kinky toy options to try. For some partners, kinky sex might mean role-playing or BDSM, while for others, it means incorporating new sexcessories into their usual routine. If you want to experiment but don’t know exactly where to start, the following sex toys truly have a whole lot to offer!

Lifestyle

Post-Workout Routine and Supplements Guide: Get the Best Fitness Results

August 8, 2022 — by Valeriya Vimon

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If you’ve ever dabbled in the broad world of workout supplements, you’ll know there’s a lot to pick from. And, while supplementation can undoubtedly help you accomplish your nutritional, performance, and aesthetic goals (especially if you’re preparing for a bodybuilding competition), it’s not always clear which supplements are worth it and safe, and which are a waste of time.

Lifestyle

Dress for Success: Steps to Building Your Professional Wardrobe

August 5, 2022 — by Valeriya Vimon

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Professional work outfits are more than just workwear: it’s how you make a good impression and show that you take your job seriously. Knowing how important it is, building a professional wardrobe may seem daunting, especially when starting from scratch.

And if you’ve already been working in an office for some time now, you know you can always use some fresh eyes in reconsidering your professional choices and fight off decision fatigue. With that said, here are five steps to building a professional wardrobe that will hopefully ease the whole process and save you time and money.

Understand Your Company Dress Code

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Source: eubusinessnews.com

Most businesses have dress codes, especially those that meet directly with clients and other professionals. When all employees follow their company’s dress code, it makes a good impression on other professionals. As an employee, you must dress appropriately for work to represent your company well.

Before your first day at work, it can be helpful to know the dress code. It won’t only allow you to dress accordingly and show yourself a good fit for the company, but it’ll also help you stock your professional wardrobe with comfortable women’s business wear that match the dress code. But how can you know?

It’s not uncommon for recruiters or hiring managers to mention a specific dress code as soon as you get the job. If that hasn’t happened, they may have forgotten. So, don’t be afraid to ask.

It may happen that you won’t get specific guidelines. Instead, they might tell you the dress code, leaving you responsible for knowing what that means. What are the 4 basic types of workplace attire? The four most common workplace dress codes are business formal, business professional, business casual and casual. Therefore, make sure you do your research and dress appropriately.

Make a Set of Business Wear Essentials

Every professional wardrobe should contain a set of essentials used on rotation. These are the go-to items in your closet, including simple pieces you can easily dress up with accessories. From simple blouses and trousers to a tailored blazer paired with a crisp white shirt, nailing the basics is key to always looking put together.

Whether you shop online or in-store, it’s best to consider buying from stores that specialise in manufacturing high-quality business attire for women as they sell pieces designed with the corporate working women in mind. That way ensures buying items you’ll keep with you for a while. What are some of the women’s business wear essentials?

Business formal and professional codes require traditional office wear for women, not leaving you with much room to improvise: a pantsuit or a skirt suit in neutral colours combined with several crisp-lined tops like blouses and corporate shirts.

For business casual and casual, you can add colours, styles and textures, from shirts and blouses with a more relaxed fit to chino pants, asymmetrical skirts and maxi dresses. Just remember: the most versatile pieces are also the most essential ones.

Layer Up the Look with Statement Pieces

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Source: d2line.com

Now that you’ve established the essential parts of your professional style, try to include statement-making elements to make your appearance stand out.

A business outfit with a blazer creates an elegant balance of modern and timeless style. A slim-fit blazer with long or ¾ sleeves can give your waist a nice line. Another great option, especially for colder months, is a knit jacket; it’ll make you warm and comfortable without compromising the formality.

While dress code is crucial for building your professional wardrobe, so is making your look your own. Choose clothing items that embody your working professional’s identity. Although there’s nothing wrong with mimicking the style of your co-workers, embrace being different by wearing office clothes that make you happy, not losing yourself in the process.

Pay Attention to Your Accessories

There aren’t many things vibing girl boss like carefully chosen business accessories, such as eye-catching earrings or a distinctive belt. Fun purses, patterned ties, pastel socks, and even a statement laptop case are accessories that will undoubtedly enhance your professional appearance and make you stand out from the crowd.

Have fun stocking your closet with the statement accessories that suit you and your style the best. What a little extra colour and wacky patterns can do for your overall look may surprise you.

Don’t Forget the Shoes

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Source: thepioneerwoman.com

What shoes can women wear to the office? Spending all day at the office means your shoes must be comfortable in the first place. No matter how formal or informal your office is, it’s possible finding shoes that are suitable for the dress code, stylish and comfortable all at the same time.

Pumps in neutral colours like black, nude and grey are most women’s go-to options, while patterned heels and classy slingbacks are other popular choices for any dress code. If you’re on the casual business side, though, you can choose from sandals, boots and loafers too.

For a stylish winter or fall work outfit, combine ankle booties with wide-leg pants and a turtleneck, or chino pants and a wrap top. Finish the look with a jacket. Black pointee loafers look great with cropped trousers and a trench coat, while black pumps look amazing with Ponte pants and a blazer over a sweater. For business casual, consider bright-coloured or patterned day heels with a shirtdress. It doesn’t get business fancier than that.

Lifestyle

The Essential Sportswear Items Every Fan Should Have

July 26, 2022 — by Richard Dawson

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Up until some time ago, sports and fashion simply didn’t get along. That is until the modern streetwear style emerged and taught us it’s actually possible to merge these two together quite easily. Men are especially fond of this solution because it’s a way of looking great with minimal hassle, and they can show off their love and support for their favourite sports teams in the same way they did when they were kids who just got passionate about sports.

Lifestyle

The History of Toy Soldiers: Steps to Choosing the Right Collection

July 1, 2022 — by Richard Dawson

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Airfix British Paras plastic toy soldiers

People have always had a fascination with wars. I remember begging my parents for a set of military figures and toys at a very young age, before I understood anything about what war is. The appeal of military figures and toys has been there for centuries, but it started soaring in the late 19th century. Nowadays, though, they’re much more than just toys. There are many collectors who would pay serious money for some sets. If you’re new to toy soldiers, and are contemplating whether or not to buy that expensive set you’ve been eyeing for a while, here’s everything you need to know about them – from their history, to how they’re made and what you need to consider before buying a specific set.

Lifestyle

Thoughtful Ideas to Step Up Your ‘Thank You’ Gifting Game

June 21, 2022 — by Valeriya Vimon

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Edible Arrangements

strawberry thank you gift
Source: ediblearrangements.com

Sometimes, when words aren’t enough, edible arrangements thank you gifts are a great way to express your sincere gratitude and appreciation to a deserving person. Therefore, nothing beats a perfectly arranged chocolate bouquet consisting of carefully selected and tasty chocolate candies or a box of chocolate-covered strawberries!

On the other hand, a box of sweet treats is one of the simplest ways to say “thank you”. To seal the deal, you can opt for one with four, eight, or twelve distinct cookies or go for a single cookie flavour and see how these specially arranged sweets work their magic!

Moreover, if edible arrangements thank you gifts are your way of saying how much someone means to you, you might want to consider gourmet gift baskets. When the receiver of a soft leather basket of treats delves in, they’ll find a carefully curated collection of gourmet sweets and savoury snacks, with a stunning satin ribbon to finish the look. Thank you gift baskets can also be a tasty and memorable way to express your gratitude to coworkers, friends, and family, and once the basket is empty, it can undoubtedly become a part of their home décor.

Wine Tasting Box & Rare Upcycled Bottles

Although most adults love a glass of wine, giving a bottle to someone you don’t know so well can be tricky, especially when you’re unfamiliar with their wine tastes. So, why not treat them to a wine tasting experience in the privacy of their own home? A wine tasting box featuring nine hand-picked wines by the glass, each with tasting notes for a 10-centilitre pour and distilled from a winery that focuses more on its wine history rather than mass production, can be as special as the person receiving it!

Your wine lover obsessed with DIY trends will appreciate the idea of receiving upcycled wine platters. The bottles for these trays were found along the side of the road and on mountain trails near Val Huegerich’s home in Wyoming. They’re cleaned and melted down to create one-of-a-kind serving platters that are ideal for any get-together or family meal.

Coffee Gift Box

Source: playswellwithbutter.com

A gift box of coffee beans will definitely delight any coffee lover. However, before choosing between ground and whole beans, do some research to check whether the coffee producer offers a coffee grinder before making your order! Another perfect gift idea for eternal coffee enthusiasts is the smart coffee warmer. The latest coffee mug warmers have a built-in gravity induction switch, eliminating the need for an on/off switch. They are available in various colours whereas their sleek style would look great on any desk.

Laser Cut Notebook & Monthly Planner

The best thing about presents is their uniqueness. There is nothing more unique than a personalised notebook. For instance, you can pick a distinctive flower pattern wrapped around the initial of the recipient’s name on the cover of a laser-cut wood diary that is hand-bound for a guaranteed lifetime and whose wood is obtained locally and responsibly. Consider monogrammed notebook if your recipient is a woman who enjoys writing, journaling, or drawing.

Considering that love comes from the stomach, treat the enthusiastic chef you admire with a hardcover notebook where they can write their favourite traditional dishes or dessert recipes. To upgrade the gift, you can personalise it!

On the other hand, being organised may save time and frustration, so a personal planner is always a thoughtful present. Some monthly planners don’t have dates, so you won’t have to worry about giving them at the wrong time of year.

Desk Organiser

A natural wood desktop organiser featuring a two-tier mail sorter, calendar blocks, accessory drawer and additional accessory compartment will keep the recipient focused on their tasks!

Another unexpected but extraordinary option to treat your boss, teacher or beloved coworker is the charging dock and organiser combo. This latest technology charging station, which can fit laptops, tablets, and cellphones, successfully reduces tangled cords by storing chargers in one spot. It is a professional organiser with a walnut veneer core that is both robust and attractive.

Aromatique Hand Care Gift

aromatic hand care gift
Source: olebeautystore.com

The pandemic has taught us that keeping our hands clean is vital. In these challenging times, there is nothing more practical than gifting someone hand soap. When choosing it as a present, opt for one that comes in luxury packaging and gives a nice feeling when used on the skin. We recommend you consider vegan and cruelty-free soap based on Mandarin Orange, Rosemary, and Cedar notes.

Meanwhile, a premium lotion will keep your recipient’s hands moisturised, especially when washing them constantly. A blend of shea butter, almond extract, honey, and coconut oil hand cream will be the perfect gift for nurses and care providers to show that you’ve been paying attention since it’s rich in texture and lasts a long time.

Personalised Leather Luggage Tags

For those travel pals constantly on the go, there is nothing more thrilling than receiving personalised leather luggage tags. Getting them luggage tags with their initials stamped in gold or silver foil and an adjustable strap and buckle for securely attaching to luggage is something they will use for a lifetime!

What to Look for in a Thank You Gift

thank you gift basket
Source: bhg.com

Dietary Habits and Allergens

When you want to thank someone, a floral arrangement or a basket of snacks is always a good choice. However, any allergies or sensitivities that someone may have must be considered. You wouldn’t give a nut allergy sufferer an assortment of peanut butter cookies, just as you wouldn’t give a vegan a cheese basket. Prepare ahead of time to ensure you can meet the person’s food and lifestyle requirements.

Hobbies and Interests

The secret to a great thank you gift is to select an item or experience that corresponds to the recipient’s interests. The purpose of a thank you gift is to express gratitude for an act or gesture the recipient performed for you. Negating their hobbies or selecting something too easy will not affect them. Instead, consider their favourite programme, go-to food, leisure activities, or anything new they’d like to try.

Lifestyle

Nail Every Detail on Your Big Day: Step-by-Step Guide to Wedding Décor

June 16, 2022 — by Valeriya Vimon

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Your wedding decor, along with your dress, is one of the best ways to let your personality shine on your big day. But, before you start marking stuff off your wedding decor to-do list, keep in mind that there’s more to the process than just picking the first thing you see. Choosing wedding decor that is lovely, coherent and reflects your taste as a couple takes time and effort.