Each week, we feature wedding music recommendations from Scratch Weddings, the nation's leader with the best wedding DJs at affordable prices. This week's post comes from DJ Alkimist. Originally trained as a classical violist, Alkimist's firm grasp of music theory allows her to create seamless transitions between songs as diverse as a 60's pop hit and a house-inspired club remix. She loves to stretch her limits. "I will play exactly what a couple wants – if they want to get specific, that's great, but even if they just communicate the feel they are going for, I can create an entire playlist based on that vibe.” Alkimist's keen ear and effortless DJ style are quickly earning her the distinction of being one of DC's rising DJ stars.

Photo Credit: K and K Photography

Christmas is just two days away, but when we spotted this genius idea from a real wedding shot by Two Chics Photography, we immediately thought of all our BG brides who are plotting holiday weddings for 2012!

In lieu of a traditional guestbook, couple Chad and Lucy came up with the concept of a "wishing tree," where guests sign an ornament with their name and advice or wishes for the newlyweds.

Every year, around their anniversary, they can hang the ornaments on their Christmas tree together and it will remind them of the happiness of their wedding day.

Tell us: What's the best idea for re-usable wedding decor that you've seen recently?

Want to get a headstart on your wedding planning in the New Year?

Santa Clara brides, we've got just the ticket: Join expert celebrity planners Preston Bailey, Sasha Souza, Nikki Khan and Bryan Rafanelli at The Wedding Faire & Symposium from Jan. 6th - 8th!

They'll share their expertise and all of the newest wedding trends during special workshops throughout the day. The Wedding Faire will also include 100+ photo booth displays and vendor exhibits, as well as bridal fashion shows (it's the largest wedding planning event in NoCal). Get additional info and purchase your ticket at wedding-faire.com.

If you can't make the event (is it too late for the BG editors to hop on a plane from NYC?), we've got an exclusive sneak peek at some of the trends that will be featured in Faire. They also offer wedding planning tools for brides across the country.

1. Incorporate Color Into Your Gown

At New York Bridal Fashion Week, we saw gorgeous gowns in a variety of hues, from pink to icy blue to black for 2012. If you're dead-set on wearing a white dress, you can still find ways to include a pop of color in your bridal ensemble.

Janet and Cameron rang in 2011 with a beautiful snowy wedding in Park City, Utah. Check out the amazing photos from photographer Rebekah Westover!