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Wedding Budget: Setting and Sticking to It

2010-09-26T20:44:00.001-07:00

Want to make sure your marriage doesn't end up on the rocks before you get to the chapel? Then set a realistic wedding budget -- and stick to it.

In the process of planning a wedding, budget concerns often is a source of disagreement for a couple. They may have different ideas about what kind of wedding they want, and about what they can afford. To make the wedding a truly happy occasion, it is important that the couple discusses financial constraints early.

Set A Budget And Save For It

The first tip is -- discuss finances before the wedding plans begin. Everyone involved in the decision-making process needs to understand exactly how much money is available for the wedding.

To maximize that budget, you should start saving early for your wedding. Advance planning and saving will allow you to maintain or even exceed your budget, comfortably. And that will make wedding planning easier and more fun.

Get Everyone On-Board

Once your wedding budget has been established, set it aside for a few days and then review it again. This gives everyone a chance to let the information sink in. The budget review after this waiting period gives the participants a chance to verify that they understand and agree to the budget. This is vitally important, because someone who does not agree with the budget may overspend in 1 area, leaving the rest of the budget in jeopardy.

Budget Line Items

When you've decided exactly how much money is available for your wedding, the next step is to divide the total into budget categories, such as the venue, food and drink, bride's attire, groom's attire, transportation, entertainment, photography, favors, centerpieces, and gifts. It is also advisable to set aside money for unforeseen expenses.

Who Pays

Part of establishing a budget is to be clear on who will pay for what.

Shopping and Negotiating

You will need to negotiate contracts for services, and so you must know the budget for each area of the wedding. If you have allotted $250 for entertainment, look for a DJ whose rate is approximately that amount, then negotiate to ensure that you remain under budget.
It's wise to shop around and compare prices for services. A company may come highly recommended, but if they are outside your price range, let them know why you are going to have to choose another company. You may be surprised at how willing they will be to give you a better offer.

Substitute Creativity for Cash

Doing things on your own is another way to stay under budget. Homemade invitations or making your own favors or centerpieces can greatly reduce the wedding cost, freeing up funds for other areas of the wedding.

Do not fall into the trap of viewing your budget as restrictive. Instead of thinking about what you can't afford, focus on how you can make your wedding and reception truly unique. You will be inspired to create a wonderful, memorable wedding regardless of your budget constraints.

Anticipate the Unforeseen

Realize that there are bound to be snags along the way. If you go over budget in 1 area, you will need to cut the budget in another area. As long as you stay aware of your spending and realize the ramifications of all your actions, you can roll with the punches and alter your plans to accommodate any needed changes.

Make It a Wonderful Memory

A wedding budget can cause emotional strain on a couple and their relationship. It is important for them to discuss their finances and establish a clear budget for their wedding plans. Doing this early in the wedding planning process can help the couple to avoid conflict during the planning phase of the wedding. It can also make the wedding more fun for everyone, and start out the marriage on a positive note.

After all, working together is what a marriage is all about.

Create a Beautiful Wedding on a Budget

2010-09-26T20:41:00.001-07:00

Few people realize that having a beautiful wedding does not require spending their entire savings.

If you're planning a wedding, learning where to cut costs and how to budget will leave you with money to spare.

"There are many ways to have the wedding of your dreams without the nightmare of huge bills," said Anna Griffin, wedding industry expert and designer of the Wedding Studio line of wedding products. "You just have to be resourceful."

Here are some tips from Griffin on how to create a designer wedding on a budget.

For something old, wear a vintage wedding dress. You can save hundreds on a wedding gown by shopping in consignment or vintage shops, in newspaper classifieds and on the Internet. You also can update your mother's, grandmother's or aunt's wedding dress with a new neckline or hemline, beading or lace.
Print your own invitations. There are many wedding accessories that can be made instead of bought - the veil, the centerpieces and even the invitations. Do-it-yourself kits are available to help you create designer looks without the designer price tags. The Wedding Studio, for example, is an entire line of paper-related wedding accessories - from invitations to menu cards to guest books and photo albums - designed for brides who want original and elegant paper goods. The invitation kit comes in four styles in three color options and includes envelopes, reply cards and printing instructions.
Use an antique or classic car instead of a limousine. Contact a local antique or classic car club to rent a luxury vehicle, such as a 1939 Rolls-Royce or a 1952 Cadillac DeVille. Most of the owners will be thrilled to loan out their cars and you'll have more than enough room for the married couple at a much lower price. And, whereas a limousine is rented for a couple of hours, you have the benefit of keeping the antique vehicle for 24 hours or longer.
Keep the flowers simple. Instead of hiring a florist, contact a floral-design school and hire students to provide you with flower arrangements. You also can create your own flower arrangements. Buy one color of flower in bulk. It creates a visual impact while saving money. Contact a wholesale florist; many will sell flowers directly to the consumer.

Buying Wedding Cakes: Tips And Helpful Advice

2010-08-22T21:49:00.001-07:00

Generally, wedding cakes are is the conventional cake being dished up to the guests at the breakfast after the wedding. It is characterized as a huge cake, different from the usual cakes we have on ordinary occasions. In most cases, wedding cakes are layered or multi-layered and are heftily decorated with icing, beads, and other embellishments that would reflect the grandiose of the event. On the top is a small image of a bride and groom.

Wedding cakes can go from the simplest to the most complex decorations; each has its own artistic distinctions depending on the creative juices of the baker. They should conform to the main purpose of the cake, that whatever embellishments it possess, it can still be edible and can be eaten.

Because the wedding cake is such an important part in the wedding celebration, here are some tips you need to know in case you will be buying a wedding cake in the future.

1. Check on the length of time required for you in ordering your wedding cake.

Time is such an important factor when making wedding plans. Of course, you would not want your wedding be hurriedly done or rushed. Because the wedding cake is a part of the wedding plan, it is important to devote an appropriate time in ordering wedding cakes.

It is best to ask your favorite bakeshop on the time frame that they usually give with regards to wedding cake so that you can make early orders if it will take such a long time to create your wedding cake. In this way, you will not be in a hurry coming up with a wedding cake to be served on your wedding day.

2. Verify the details of the cake and its cost.

A lot of couples are so fascinated with the luscious treats that go with their wedding cake. What they do not know is that each embellishment and every twists and turns embedded in the cake has a price.

Therefore, it would be better to clear it out with your baker how much will be the cost of every decoration are added features you wish to add on your wedding cake.

3. Tell your baker about the details of your wedding.

In today’s modern world, weddings are not just done in the church. A lot of ideas had come up in terms of wedding venues. Therefore, if ever you have any plans of having your wedding by the beach or anywhere else where it is open, it would be better to inform your baker about this.

In most cases, icings are vulnerable to environmental hazards. So, if the baker knows that your wedding will be a garden wedding or a wedding by the beach, he could make such arrangements with your cake in order to endure the environmental conditions where it will be placed.

4. In a budget? Why not decorate your own wedding cake.

It is not so uncommon nowadays to find somebody decorating his or her own wedding cake. In fact, it is a feasible idea especially to those who have a very tight budget.

All you have to do is to order a plain wedding cake and buy the decorations from the retail stores.

So, set aside some special decisive moment when it comes to your wedding cake because there would be no better way to glamorize your wedding than to have a perfectly made wedding cake.

Wedding Cake: How To Pick The Best One

2010-08-22T21:48:00.001-07:00

Wedding cakes have become an essential decoration in the wedding venue. The first thing guests would buzz about is how magnificent your wedding cake is. Choosing the right cake should be meticulously done. With a little patience and the quick tips below, picking the best cake should as easy as walking down the aisle.

Choose the right bakeshop

If you have an idea on where the best bakery is in your city, then head to that place immediately. You can ask suggestions from your friends or family members also. Get a reservation at once. Do not procrastinate. The availability of cake decorators might be restricted. Be sure to drop by the bakeshop to talk about the designs, flavors and other things you wanted to add to your cake. Be sure to give a detailed description of exactly what you want your cake to be. Give the vendor ample time to prepare, approximately six months ahead of your big day would do. You may need to pay a deposit fee for reservation.

The right taste

Aside from the look of the cake, keep in mind that cakes are made primarily for eating. They should taste good as well as they look good. The texture and flavor of the cake itself is important. When scouting for a bakeshop, don’t hesitate to ask for cake samples of the flavors you want. If they do not allow this, jump to the next store.

Check on your budget

Wedding cakes ranges from $300 to $1000 or so. Cost primarily depends on the cake design you want. You have to pay for the cake decorator’s fee on top of the cost of the cake itself. Know what your budget is ahead of time. Some shops may give you free delivery too. Most bakeshop has a standard number of servings for each cake type. Know how many guests would attend your wedding so you would know more or less how much money you would allocate for the cake.

Flowers as decorations

Flowers have been a traditional thing on weddings. You can well put them in cakes too. You can either choose from fresh flowers or artificial ones. Fresh flowers are beautiful addition to your cakes. But it is very important that you choose fresh flowers wisely. Be sure that they are free from chemicals. Just to be on the safe side, sugar flowers are safer. These are edible gum paste decorations that have wire or toothpicks on them.

Where to place the cake

Most cakes, especially on summer, might end up melted under the heat of the sun. They can also cause flowers and flavored curls to dry up. Not to mention the possibility of flies gathering on your priced cake. Just be sure, always have a back up site where you can store your cakes to preserve its look and taste. Never place your wedding cake near the dance floor or where there is a heavy flow of traffic. You might just see your cake fall down. That’s not a good sight at all! Be sure to check the sturdiness of the table you would place your cake.

Buying wedding cakes can be fun and hassle-free. Remember that your wedding cakes needs to be presentable, most of the photo opts are done beside the cake. It’s always nice to give out that bright smile beside you’re well decorated cake that brings out your personal statement.

An Introduction to Wedding Cakes

2010-08-22T21:23:00.001-07:00

A wedding is one of the sweetest moments in one’s life, and to compliment the great occasion, it is only natural to serve sweets. Cakes, like sweets, are an integral part of a Western wedding.

Once the wedding ceremony is over, the traditional wedding cake is served to the guests. For this, even the knife, the container, and the table are decorated beautifully.

The wedding cake should go well with the wedding. The taste and style of the couple is clearly reflected in the design, shape, and decoration of the wedding cake. There are some prerequisites to choosing the most suitable wedding cake. The proposed budget is the prime factor. After deciding the budget, a good baker, caterer, or expert chef should be selected. The correct selection of the wedding cake remains a stiff challenge due to the wide range of options available regarding flavors, colors and decorations for the cake.

Usually, the wedding cake is massive in size, and multi-layered or tiered. It should complement the wedding dress, the place of reception, the weather conditions, etc.

Tradition demands that the bride and the groom share the first piece of the cake, after which other guests partake of it. Sometimes, a portion is preserved so that the couple can share it either on their first wedding anniversary or on the birth of their first child.

The wedding cake can be made in various flavors and colors. Some opt for the traditional ones, while others prefer new designs and tastes too. A single flavor can be used. But it would be nice if it could cater to the different tastes of the guests. To achieve this, each layer can have a different flavor. The topping or the icing can also be done in many ways, the traditional being the white cream icing. Even the shape is undergoing changes, and miniature cakes are becoming a common sight.

Some of the preferred flavors are cheesecakes, mousse-filled cakes, chocolate, orange mud, and fruitcakes. Fillings can be picked from the list of chocolate, coconut, custard, almond, vanilla, etc. At the top of the cake, the figures of the bride and the groom can be seen. The cake can be decorated using many colors or design themes.

The basic idea or tradition of the wedding cake is to make the occasion memorable, to be cherished by the couple as well as their friends and loved ones.

The tradition of serving cakes is laudable, as it symbolizes the sweetness, prosperity, fertility, and love fostered through marriage.

Six Amazing Accessories for Your Cinderella Or Princess Wedding

2010-08-20T19:14:00.001-07:00

Some elements of the Cinderella wedding are downright obvious -- the extra-full ball gown, the elbow-length gloves. And let's not forget the pumpkin carriage that's sure to show up somewhere, whether it be the place cards, the centerpieces, or a giant prop piece near the entrance.

But with Princess weddings -- as with any other kind -- it's the details that make the difference, and getting those right often brings the bride the most satisfaction. Here are some suggestions for feeling that Cinderella magic right down to your glass-slippered toes.

The Headband

No one will fault you for wearing a crystal-studded royal tiara and necklace set. But Cinderella herself wore something a little different. The Disney movie was created in the 50s, when headbands were all the rage, and Ella herself seemed especially partial to them. Even on her wedding day, she wore a sparkling headband right on the top of her crown, in the simple 50s style. A waltz or ballet length veil sat low on the back of her head, almost at the nape of her neck. Without much difficulty, you can still find a rhinestone-studded wedding headband today.

The Neckwear

Cinderella's choice of neckwear was a little more timeless. Often, you'll see her don a simple one-stranded pearl choker. But it seems that her favorite adornment was the satin ribbon choker, which she wore in racy, Nicole Kidman-style black. You might not want to be as daring as Cinderella at your wedding, but the satin choker is fabulous, especially if you can purloin an antique ribbon from a beloved grandmother. Now you're the walking embodiment of elegance, and you have "something old" covered.

The Glass Slippers

It's common knowledge that you can get dramatic "glass slippers" (actually vinyl) for your royal stroll down the aisle. But glass slippers come in more casual, comfortable forms as well. Look for the open-toed variety, which give off all that fairytale spark, but leave your tootsies cool when it's time to dance the night away. Sure, Prince Charming might find these less useful as a bridal homing device, but he's already found his princess.

The Bluebirds of Happiness

Bluebirds played a major role in Cinderella's rise to the top, yet they usually get short shrift at a princess-theme wedding. Don't forget these perennial symbols of nuptial good luck at yours. A lovely way to include them is to track down a small bluebird keepsake charm or clip you can affix to your garter, toasting flutes or bouquet. Hallmark has one that simply glows. There you have it -- "something blue."

The Dove Release

You could argue that this isn't an accessory, but it's our article, so we're calling it one. Doves aren't the key characters in Disney's version that they were in the original Grimm story -- and thank goodness for that -- but they still define the moment when the prince and princess unite in marriage. For any Cinderella wedding, they're a must.

But some "dove" handlers (the doves are actually white homing pigeons) have something more to offer the princess bride, such as ornate pumpkin coach carriages that double as cages. These can be placed near the altar for some romantic cooing action, then rolled down the aisle for a dramatic release once you've become husband and wife. For the biggest fireworks-like sensation, release the first two doves yourselves, but let pro handlers manage the rest.

The Guestbook Picture Frame

If you're true Cinderella aficionado, those full-color Walt Disney prints of the royal couple probably get your heart beating a little faster. Buy one framed with a large white matte. Or if you really want the signature frame but don't want the $150 price tag, buy the print separately and make a few patient trips to the thrift store. At a large one, you'll typically find a dizzying sample of frames and mattes you can usually get for pocket change. That's quite the return on something you'll love looking at for years.

Essential Wedding Accessories - Inject Beauty Into the Eyes of the Beholder

2010-08-20T19:12:00.001-07:00

Wedding accessories are so important when it comes down to adding the finishing touches to the bridal attire. If you think the bridal look is complete without wedding accessories then I urge you to think again. Wedding gowns need garnishing with elegance and this is achieved by choosing the right essential wedding accessories.

A. Wedding veils

Watch how the veil sets the scene and speaks volumes as it is nurtured onto the head expelling radiance and beauty. An amazing transformation transpires for the bride once the veil is positioned

Design/style of your chosen gown will help you decide on what veil is best suitable. Traditional veils normally measure approx three and half yards long, in saying that remember this is your day and if you want your veil trailing along the floor then so be it.

Shoes and stockings

Crucial elements are shoes/stockings for the overall look on your wedding day. Before deciding on a pretty shoe because it looks good be sure to try it for comfort as you will be wearing them for the best part of the day. Shoes made of velvet, satin or silk are materials which once again are a common choice made by brides.

Jewelry

Aside from the wedding band/ring consider Jewelry pieces like Grace Kelly pearl peepers with a matching string of pearls to compliment the gown, Jewelry selections as such just oozes and injects elegance, in fact adding glamour in a tasteful feminine way.

Headpieces

Diamante headbands and Juliet caps are generally used to hold the wedding veil in place. All brides' requirements have been catered for when looking for essential accessories in bridal shops from plain to bling bling. Crystals/pearls hold strong in a brides mind therefore dominating her way of thinking on designs and styles for her wedding gown and accessories.

Star attraction headpieces has to be the tiara all of a shimmer and glimmer.

Gloves

Another accessory that must not to be ignored especially if the wedding gown is off the shoulder/sleeveless, is gloves. Word has it the shorter the sleeve the longer the glove. Gloves simply conjure up an air of sophistication to any bridal outfit.

Wedding accessories are just as important as your gown so the right choice has to be made to look a million dollars

An honest friend is the best companion to have with you when out shopping for what to wear on your wedding day; it can also help ease pressure.

Just a little friendly warning, make sure the friend you have chosen to help in your bid to look beautiful is not one of your boyfriends old flames.

Wedding Accessory Guide: Accessories Are An Important Part Of Your Wedding

2010-08-20T19:08:00.001-07:00

Wedding Accessories play an important part of any wedding, the bride must have her accessories to go with her wedding attire and the groom also needs his, not to mention the guests should keep one accessory in mind, a hat! Accessories add those finishing touches to every wedding that every couple are going for!

Everyone wants to look individual on their big day. But although there is a wealth of accessories to choose from, the only real way to look individual is to create your own. As individual, one-of-a-kind fashion items are becoming sought after and higher priced, more and more people nowadays are starting to develop to make their own style. Creating your own wedding accessory gives your wedding that much more personal feel to it and makes you feel good when you walk down the aisle with your own unique accessory and everyone gapes at how wonderful it is and asks where you bought it! Creating your own wedding accessories is also a lot cheaper than buying them!

Jewelry is a favorite area for brides when it comes to putting together an outfit. With such a vast range of beautiful beads and wire available, it is so simple to make a pretty pair of earrings or some other trinket. For an elegant look, top-to-toe, you need to make sure that your hair looks as glamorous as the rest of you. A tiara will be that finishing touch! Every girl knows that the key accessory to finish off a look is your handbag. There is such a huge variety of bags available to buy that you can pick one up quite cheaply. So you can be sure that you can make your self appear that much trendier with just a few accessories!

So you don’t need to go out spending a fortune on beaded white shoes, just buy a plain pair and bead them yourself. You don’t need to spend fortunes on a handbag, just buy a plain and decorate it yourself, see where I’m going with this? It’s as simple as this, accessories can be made cheaply and beautifully by you and when you make them they are unique and personal why miss out of that?!

Tips to Reduce Wedding Stress

2010-08-18T17:51:00.001-07:00

You’re a bride-to-be, certainly a revered title. Some might even say the envy of all hopeful marrieds....

But you’re bombarded….

Advertisements, to-do lists, future in-laws, the tiniest of mundane details – they all demand to be tended to – and the resulting stress can overpower what's supposed to be a joyous time period in your life. So how do you reduce stress? Emerge from the pile of fabric swatches, font styles and contracts and ..…just….breathe. During your engagement, step away from wedding planning, and take time to enjoy yourself as a fabulous single woman.

Kicking your heals up and relaxing as your task list expands exponentially may sound impossible. In reality, allowing yourself some time to rejouvenate will not only reduce wedding stress, it will ultimately make your wedding planning more efficient. Have you ever tried going for a morning run without a good night’s sleep the night before? The same applies to wedding planning.

Here are some easy methods to reduce wedding stress:

1. Reclaim your life and your self

What activities comprised your free time before wedding planning seized your soul? Reading? Jogging? Shopping? Crafts? Don’t let those activities slip; take that time to yourself and enjoy the relaxation that comes with doing something that you enjoy. Even if just for a few hours a week – it will make a world of difference

2. Reconnect with friends and loved ones

Has it been weeks or months since you spoke with your best friend or sister (NOT about the wedding)? Losing contact is easy when you’re busy or believe loved ones are out of touch with your life. Take some time to reconnect with your closest friends; ask them about their lives. Keep them up-to-date on your wedding planning – but also discuss other aspects of your life. You are a multi-faceted person, after all.

3. Cater to someone else for a change

Yes, this is one of the few times in your life when the attention is solely focused on you and your life decisions, and you should enjoy your time in the spotlight. That said, don’t get caught up in the selfishness of being a bride. Do something unexpected for someone else. Take a break from wedding planning and cook a friend dinner, serve a meal at your local soup kitchen, babysit for a couple who could use a break…You will be surprised how good (and relaxed) you will feel by making others feel appreciated, and you will immediately reduce stress.

4. Spend quality time with your fiancé

It’s sadly ironic that in the planning of a new life together, couples often struggle to find quality time with one another in the present. The best way to begin a marriage on the right foot is to avoid neglecting your relationship now. Building a life as one should always be your top priority, (remember – it IS the reason behind the big party!) so enjoy romantic evenings together and try not to talk about the wedding. Focus on your relationship and your future beyond the wedding day.

Above all else, don’t lose sight of what’s important and don’t lose sight of yourself.

Wedding Speeches: Tips And Advice

2010-08-18T17:43:00.001-07:00

Statistics have shown that more people are afraid of public speaking then they are of more common fears, and it is indeed a very fearful act, speaking in public, anything you say cannot be taken back, and if you say something bad, you’ll get foot "in" mouth disease.

But does looking for free speeches on the net really help? Most of the time you’ll find some cheap tips on how to make the perfect, speech or how to say it. Or maybe you’ll be lucky enough to find one that is already made, and you’ll just have to print it. But these speeches tend to be rather, impersonal and very general, and if you’re the best man, you’ll probably just end up boring your friends and family.

When making speeches, the simpler the better, you won’t have to depend on free wedding speeches off the net if you have memories of your friends.

What you are asked to do on a wedding toast is to tell the people something about your friends, the ones getting married, how they were meant for each other and how you wish them happiness for the rest of their lives. You don’t need a factory made, winding speech, all you need is memories, and your genuine care for your loved ones.

If you’re still having the jiggly stomach about giving your speech you can follow these free wedding speech tips, they may not be ready made but they’ll surely help.

1. Forget the preaching go on with the memories

Most people give winding speeches because they tend to give “unasked advice” leave that to the marriage counselor or the pastor, just give ‘em memories. Most couples appreciate the nostalgia of a few well chosen memories. Find a funny or a touching memory you have of the couple and share it with the room, plus a few well wishes and you’re done.

2. Go for short but effective, rather than long and winding

Many of us know that a long speech is very boring; you don’t want to dull the night with your talks of your childhood, and your games, with your friend. A biography is for a book, one or two memories are for a wedding.

3. Write a Poem

You may say that poems are for sissies but that depends on every person point of view. But a Wedding Is a very emotional moment and it’s sure that everyone is in the mood for a little emotion and tears and what more to provoke those dams to flow than a few well said lines in the form of a poem?

5. Don’t forget to introduce yourself

A simple “Jade has been my friend since high school and I’ve never seen her gaga over any guy other than Andrew” Make a basis for what you’re saying, especially if you’re talking about moments in the newlywed’s life. If it was a trial, you’re the witness, and you’ll need credibility. Just imagine would people “feel” your speech if they’re don’t know who the heck you are?

Best Man Wedding Speech Tips

2010-08-18T17:38:00.001-07:00

Delivering a perfect best man wedding speech is a challenging responsibility for many men. While developing such a Best Man's Speech, one of the main dilemmas many "Best Men" face is to decide on whether to crack everyone up or to keep it safe and serious. There are many people who are not good in public speaking and doing so make them nervous. And if such people were asked to be the best man or the maid of honor at the wedding, he/she may panic. But is it such as a big job to deliver a speech to the public. No! You can also deliver a great speech, you are fearing as you haven’t tried to deliver one before.

What you need to do to give a good speech at the wedding is some preparation and be aware of the subject you are going to talk about. If you are well aware of the topic you can easily give a great wedding speech – here “best man wedding speech” – and keep the interest of your audience.

This article tries to help you in this regard and here are few tips that could aid one to prepare a best man wedding speech.

Prepare yourself about what you are going to say. Take your time to think about what you want others to know about the groom and the bride, and what you wish them for their future.
It is always a good idea to write it out (it is not necessary for you to carry the written point to the wedding, but writing is always appreciated as it will help you to remember and note the points once more)
Identify yourself and your relationship with the groom and bride. This is quite important as everyone will not be aware of who you are.
Speak clearly, slowly, and loud enough that everyone need to hear what you are speaking.
Start your speech by thanking the parents of groom and bride if they have paid for the event. If the groom and bride are footing the bill themselves, don’t forget to thank them for organizing such an event and inviting everyone to share the occasion.
It is also a good idea to tell a story, funny one-liner or a joke, or use an inspirational quote.
Let your guard down. It is ok to show your emotions. This is one of your good friends wedding, if not your best friends. It is even ok to cry or becoming emotional.
Keep you best man wedding speech short, to say 5 to 10 minutes.
Finally, end the speech with a message of hope and congratulate the proud groom and blushing bride.

Nowadays there are several websites which offers free best man speech with good examples of wedding speeches given by a friend or a relative, and of course you will find humorous free speeches also. Most websites also offer some of the classic short wedding toasts, touching wedding toasts, and humorous wedding toasts you can find if you look around a bit.

Wedding Music – Top Tips On Booking Wedding Musicians

2010-08-17T21:58:00.001-07:00

How many musicians do I need?

The size of the wedding party is the key to this question.

A duo with discreet amplification can happily entertain a group of up to 60-70 people. A trio can cope with up to 100 people. As the party size increases, so does the size of the venue. You need more happening on stage to catch the attention and get the party going. A four or five-piece band with a small PA system is generally required if the party is 100 or more.

To entertain 200 people and beyond, the quality of the PA system and the lighting for the stage and dance-floor becomes crucial to the success of the event. An act is required that is able to present a "stage show" that not only sounds good but also looks good, in terms of movement and costume, with the ability to catch the attention of the crowd ... even those at the back of a big hall!

How do I find the right band?

The quality of musicianship is the most important factor. Listen to recordings of the band performing live, where available.

Repertoire and experience come next. How long has the band been involved in wedding entertainment? Can you talk to a "satisfied customer" ... a couple who used the band for their wedding and were, hopefully, delighted with the result?

If it's possible, watch the band perform live. However, if your wedding is in the UK, do be aware that recently revised licensing laws have made it very difficult and expensive to present live music in a public place, so public performances by bands of the quality you require for a successful wedding are a rarity.

How will the performance be organized?

You can expect approximately 3x45 minute sets of live music in a four hour period ... or 2x1 hour sets, if it suits you better. If the musicians are carrying a PA system, they will probably come equipped with a CD player and will be able to play CDs of a similar style of music for half an hour before the first set and in the breaks between the sets, giving professional-quality background music when the band is offstage.

For peace of mind, organize your music through a reputable agency. Make sure you receive, sign and return a contract stipulating when the band will arrive, when the performance will take place and the agreed amount of remuneration. You should expect to be able to talk to the bandleader a few weeks before the wedding to discuss any specific preferences you require.

That first dance is something really special. If you approach the band well before the event, the guys will usually be prepared to learn your chosen song, if it's not already in their repertoire.

How much should I expect to pay?

Reliability and quality of performance are the two attributes that are essential for headache-free, successful music at a wedding. If you go for cheap, you are likely to sacrifice either or both of the above!

Wedding Music Tips: How To Choose The Best Wedding Music

2010-08-17T20:00:00.001-07:00

So you've exchanged vows, and have said your 'I do's, now it's time to head out to the reception and party like you've never partied before. If you want live music playing in your reception, then you would want to hire a live band. But first, you must check with people that rent the venue where you're going to hold your reception, to see what type of live music they allow. Some venues have stringent restrictions when it comes to live music.

The type of music that you choose to play in your wedding should be an expression of both the bride and groom's personality, personal taste, and the overall theme of the wedding.

It's very important to select the right music, because the music will become a pervading presence all through out the wedding, and right down to the reception. Music creates an atmosphere. It will set the mood of your wedding.

During the wedding itself, the choice of music usually depends on the wedding. Most church ceremonies don't allow secular music. They stick to more traditional, or religious music. A man and a woman duet is usually sung during the ceremony. A church organist usually provides the majority of the music.

For the reception, the bride and groom has a choice of recorded music, or live music. If you opt for recorded music, it would be best to hire the services of a DJ. The best thing about this, is you can request to have all of your favorite songs in the playlist. Ask your friends if they know any good DJs that are willing to play for wedding receptions. If they don't know any, you could always just search the yellow pages, internet, or even contact your local radio station.

Once you've settled on a DJ, have a one-on-one discussion with the DJ. Just to explain what type of entertainment and mood you want to have during the reception. Also discuss, the selection of music that you have in mind. Ask if the DJ's familiar with wedding protocol. If not, you might want to brief the DJ first about the sensibility of the event.

On the other hand, choosing live music offers you a choice of hiring a band, soloist, instrumentalists, jazz group, etc. It all depends on what kind of theme you have in mind for you wedding.

For more formal weddings, classical groups, piano soloists, and instrumentalists are more appropriate. It would not be a bad idea, to also consider the sensibilities of your guests, to ensure that everyone has a good time!

If you want to have a rocking good time for the reception of your wedding, then hiring a band is the way to go! The energy of a live band gets people going. There's nothing else that spells a rocking good time better, than a rock and roll band.

Before hiring a band, ask them if you could listen to their music first. This will help you decide if that particular band is just right for you. Also discuss, if the band will do emcee duties, as well as provide the music.

It's best to hire a band that has had previous experience with wedding receptions. This way, they'd know what to expect, and will be able to provide the proper entertainment that's fitting for the occasion.

You always want to keep the music going, so include some background music even when the meals are being served, or when the bride and groom are doing their rounds of greeting, having their pictures taken, etc. This will also maintenance the atmosphere of the wedding all through out the reception. So choose wisely, because your choice of music can make or break this occasion!

Wedding Tips and Advice

2010-08-17T19:58:00.001-07:00

You've waited for it, you've imagined it, you've planned it: your wedding day! The day when everything should be perfect and nothing should go wrong... but you fear for the worst and you are so worried not to miss something that you may actually forget to enjoy the day! Here are some tips that may help you put everything in order.

The most important is to choose the date, to establish a budget and to try to stick to it. Do have an available marriage license for that day!

Book in advance the church and the party site. Take your time to compare prices and offers and don't be shy, try to negotiate.

You and your partner will want to look astonishing on your big day, but remember that the suit, the wedding dress and the shoes should also be comfortable. And make sure you also have the rest of bride's and bridegroom's attire.

Check carefully the guest list and make sure that everybody's got an invitation.

If you have some small children in your family (nieces, nephews, cousins) appoint them as flower girl and ring bearer.

Don't forget to choose the opening dance (it would be better to practice it a bit before - everybody will be watching you). Talk with the band/DJ about what are they planning to play. The music should be as various as possible, to meet almost everyone's requirements. Talk to the photographer to take pictures with all your guests (not only with the family) and to catch unique and funny moments (they will make you smile latter).

The vow moment is quite emotional! Practice your vows in front of a mirror, just to make sure you won't get nervous when the moment comes.

Choose carefully the flowers for the bride's bouquet; they have to match with the colours of the bride's gown and the groom's suit.

For the final check make sure that everybody knows their schedule and appointments (the hair stylist, the photographer, the flower and catering firm, the restaurant, the church, the band, the firm that makes the decorations).

If you want to, you may give some small gifts to the guests (a picture of the lucky couple with a funny massage or a classical “thanks for coming”; a deco object; a piece from the wedding cake).

And most importantly don't forget to smile and be happy!

Beauty Tips For Your Wedding Day

2010-08-17T19:55:00.001-07:00

What did I learn from my own wedding? Work out a time schedule and stick to it. Plotting out your beauty details months before your wedding will help you remain calm and collected so that your big day goes off without a hitch.

Two Months Before

A good skin care regimen is important to get ready for your big day but don't do anything too extreme. To bump up your normal routine, try adding I-Skin Intelligent Microdermabrasion System.
Moisture is so important for healthy glowing skin. Apply an oil-free moisturizer each morning before your makeup and after you take if off each night. I suggest Beyond Belief ABH Oil Free Moisturizer for your face and throat.

Four to Six Weeks Before

Make your appointment now to have your hair and makeup done. Schedule a consultation and try several different styles with and without your veil and experiment with more dramatic makeup. Remember the waterproof mascara.

Two Weeks Before

Time for a trim and to touch up your hair color or highlights. Keep hair healthy with a deep conditioner twice a week. Beyond the Zone Last Call Hair Masque is made to repair any damage and make your hair super shiny.

One Week Before

Schedule a pedicure but keep feet fabulous until the big day with some extra pampering. The Soothing Lavender Foot Soak can be handy if you plan on dancing the night away at your reception.
Don't leave any waxing until the last minute. You could end up with shiny, red skin and that isn't what you want for your wedding photos.

Day Before

Slip an eye mask in the freezer for a few minutes and use it to minimize puffy eyes.
For an always-classic look, try Sally Girl polish in Mellow for fingernails and a fun red for toenails. The small-size bottles are excellent to have on hand for touchups and the polish dries quickly.

Wedding Day

Help the day go smoothly by keeping a small bag with beauty basics such as clear fingernail polish to stop a run, bob pins to help hold an unruly curl and toupee tape for a fallen hem.

Tips to Find the Perfect Wedding Gown

2010-08-16T17:38:00.001-07:00

As they say, “beauty comes in different sizes and shapes”. A gown of the same design can’t look good on all types of women. It is better to ensure that you buy a gown which looks the most flattering on your figure. Looks and comfort both matter. Find something that suits your figure so that you will not only look amazing, but also feel comfortable in it.

Here are tips to select the wedding gown that best fits your body type:

Pear shaped – A pear shaped figure is smaller at the top and fuller at the bottom. For this type of figure, a full ball gown is the ideal choice with an accented waistline, as it will minimize the hips and focus more on the smaller upper bodice. Avoid sheath gowns as fuller bottom will look more prominent in such kind of style.

Tall/thin brides – A bride who is blessed with a good height and slim looks would look amazing in a sheath gown. The sheath or mermaid gown is very well fitting and tapers narrowly to the floor, frequently featuring a train. Tall and thin brides are the only ones who can carry off such a gown with panache and style.

Broad Shouldered brides – A gown that has spaghetti straps or a scoop neckline looks best on brides with broad shoulders. An elongated bodice with a dropped waist also elongates the bodice and narrows the shoulders. Steer clear of oversized sleeves or off the shoulder sleeves with ruffles or accents.

Petite brides - Full ball gowns with many pleats are not the ideal option for petite brides as they are too big for a woman of a short stature. A gown with dropped waistlines too can mar the look as it makes them look even shorter. Keep your wedding dress in proportion to your body. Modified A-line or a Princess A-line with natural waistlines gowns are the best options as it elongates a silhouette making a petite woman appear taller.

Thick waist brides – Brides with thick waist look their best in empire gowns which have a high waistline. Empire waistlines are usually right below the bust line that flow into long slimming skirts. Any bride would not like to look fat on her D-day, so stay away from natural waistline gowns that emphasize the waist.

Hourglass figure – An A-line gown with a dropped waist would look stunning on you if you have curves like an hourglass. It flaunts the perfect, svelte figure while accentuating the appropriate areas of the body. Apart from that, a gown with a sweetheart neckline will also accent the bodice if it covers enough of the full bust line.

All designers make wedding gowns in five basic styles - the ball gown, the A-line gown, the empire style, the sheath and the slip dress. The bridal dress is either a floor-length formal gown with a long train or a modern above the knee dress.

You can approach a bridal store near you or you can even buy online. For instance, check out www.SampleGowns.com - it provides a one stop shop for unique and exclusive wedding dresses at affordable prices. You can select any style but keep in mind that each silhouette compliments different body styles, so you should first determine which style is most flattering to your particular figure. And look your stunning best ever!

Wedding Vows - Seven Tips for Personalizing Your Own

2010-08-16T17:34:00.001-07:00

The wedding vow is the promise the bride and the groom make to each other during the wedding ceremony. A wedding without vows is an unfamiliar sight.

Wedding vows are essential in any marriage ceremony. Now-a-days, modern wedding ceremonies offer the flexibility of allowing you to write and say your own vows.

If you decide to write your own personally meaningful wedding vows, then here are a few things to keep in mind.

When you write your own vows, you naturally start to think of all the good reasons why you want to be with the person you are going to marry. Writing your own vows makes the words you say more natural and from the heart.
If you don't know what to say, or you don't know how to start it, or you just want to add a few additional thoughts, then you can get ideas by reading books on the topic or performing a search on the web for free wedding vows.
You can look at a few of the sample wedding vows online and borrow some ideas or words from each to add to your own unique vows. You can also try taking a particular sample and just changing a few words to suit you. You can also take a wedding vow you really like and use it as is.
If you want a touch of artistic expression to your vows, try adding a few lines of poetry from the popular works by Gibran, Keats or Browning.
You may want to include some of the lyrics from your favorite song. Couple's often have a song or tune that symbolizes their love for each other, sort of like the song that is danced to during the reception or after the wedding dinner.
While you are thinking about what to say in your vows, you may consider your lifestyles, your personalities and your interests.
Share with each other what you have written. You both can bounce back ideas; revive special moments you had with each other. This will help you discover what to include in your vows.
Make sure you let the Officiate or person who will be marring you know ahead of time that you are writing your own vows. He or she can inform you about what must be included and may provide a few pointers.

One final thought. Saying your wedding vows during the ceremony can be frightening. You may be scared that you might mess up. Well don't be. It's okay to stumble a bit. You will be able to correct yourself. Know that writing your own vows and practicing a bit will help you both gain the confidence you need to do well.

You Can't Do Without Your "What To Do Now & Next" Checklist

2010-01-14T16:48:00.001-08:00

First things first, a bit of an obvious one – but if you haven’t got the engagement ring then get it now!

If you have no idea, what kind of look you like, then there are various sites around that show you what rings will look like, and although this may not be as good as putting it on your finger and trying it on, they do give you an idea.

We will be providing information regarding romantic proposals and ideas soon, but if you’re reading this, hopefully that parts been taken care of! For you we will provide places where the rings are really good both in quality and price, we will aim to provide the places based on feedback from you our site visitors and e-book readers.

Make yourself a good checklist, we will help you build this over time, and you will find one on our website soon. This checklist should be broken down into “time zones” (when things should be done by) and tasks.

Another essential tool is a Wedding Diary, this compliments the checklist and it is to record anything and everything that needs to be done, the steps needed to achieve them, when they should be completed by. It is vital that you set realistic deadlines for everything. Try to distribute tasks by when they’re required and their importance, by doing this you will alleviate unnecessary stress.

The diary should also note the specifics and when the action was completed – we used a colour coding system (yes we know it’s a bit “Monicaesque” – Friends) we cannot stress the importance of it enough! Some of you will be “visual” people and you’ll find things well organised simply because of the colour coding.

During the organisation process you will meet a lot of people about lots of things and receive lots of information. You must keep absolutely everything – you never know you might need it later on. You need to ensure that you build good relationships with each and every person you speak to – you never know you might actually need them, and remember, by being nice you might be able to get more out of people, that could come in the form of a price reduction or even a service improvement.

Choosing Your Wedding Dress

2010-01-14T16:46:00.000-08:00

When you commence your search for your wedding dress, it is going to be essential that you are familiar with your body type. There is going to be a lot of emphasis on this in the process, and it is important to remember that beauty comes in many different styles. Many brides will try and deceive themselves when it comes to body type, as they feel their own image is not what society might label “beautiful”. It is very unfortunate that we are made to feel this way.

The truth is, every single body type has an inherent beauty that can only be accentuated and flattered with the right choice of wedding dress. Your body is structured according to the ways that nature felt it was best suited, and you should neither hide nor feel embarrassed about this fact when you are looking for you dress. It will be difficult, while in the process of shopping, to hear the terms you have applied so often to yourself while looking in the mirror used by employees at the boutique when you are searching for your dress, and the only way to avoid this is to be comfortable with who you are. With that said, you will want to feel as gorgeous as possible in your wedding gown, and we all have small imperfections that we will want hidden on our most important day.

Whatever your body shape may be, do not try and fool yourself into thinking it is something else. You are going to be on display on your wedding day, and choosing a dress that you wished fit you perfectly would be an incredible mistake. No matter what your body type, you will look beautiful on your special day if you choose a dress style that conforms to your body type.

It should also be mentioned that very few people actually lose weight in the time leading up to your wedding. The planning can take such a heavy toll in terms of stress and energy that dieting is simply a bad decision- many brides believe that they can spread the loss out over time, but the fact is that, as with any diet, commitment will be a problem. You may end up blowing the diet and then actually gaining weight as your body tries to compensate. Short term diets in the months before the wedding are a terrible idea, as you will need to maintain your energy levels as the tasks begin piling up. There is also the added fact that you are going to be attending several parties with excellent food, and you probably will not be able to summon the will power to stay away from it.

It is best, therefore, if you are honest with yourself when choosing your wedding dress. Don’t choose a dress that will look its best on you after you lose eight or ten pounds. This may seem like a small amount, but the fact is even these numbers are hard to reach when you are trying to lose weight. It is best not to take the chance.

If you do lose weight, good for you. Wedding dress adjustments are much easier made to fit a bride who has lost some weight than they would be for one who has not managed to do as she had hoped. Do not factor weight loss in when you are shopping for your dress.

5 Tips To Select The Best Wedding Reception Location

2010-01-14T16:43:00.001-08:00

Being disc jockeys, we get the opportunity to evaluate many reception facilities while having little or no bias to "sell" one location over another. Most Brides and Grooms know where they will be holding the ceremony before they decide where to have the reception, so we have compiled five observations that can help you when selecting your venue.

Distance - If people have to drive a long way to get from the ceremony to the reception, some will get distracted or decide to do something else. Try to keep the reception within a 15 to 30 minute drive of your ceremony. If it is not possible to get a reception hall close to your ceremony, make a caravan. Have the Bride and Groom lead the parade, and people will follow you to your reception.

Time - Time is just like the distance issue. If your reception is several hours after the ceremony, people will get busy doing other things and not show up for the reception. Try to start the reception within an hour or two of the ceremony. If you don't want to start your wedding dance at 4 o'clock in the afternoon, have a Meet and Greet mixer before your reception. Serve some punch and get people to mingle. This will be one of the few times that both families will be together. Encourage family members to share stories about your childhoods.

Size - People like their personal space, and they have most likely spent an hour packed into a church for your ceremony. If you let them spread out, they will enjoy themselves more. Make sure your reception hall has plenty of room for your guests. The people renting the location might tell you it holds 200 people, but that doesn't necessarily mean it will hold 200 people comfortably! Make sure to visit the venue before booking.

Climate Control - Having a summer wedding? Is your reception hall air conditioned? If people sweat while just sitting, they won't dance. On the flip side, if they are cold they won't dance either (who wants to dance in a parka?). Also make sure you know who has control of the thermostat so the temperature can be adjusted if needed. Chances are your reception will be warm and stuffy while all the guest are there, but as they trickle out during the night the room will begin to cool down.

Smoking - This is a hot button issue, but if your reception hall is non-smoking, you can fully expect smoker's to leave your reception for 15-30 minutes every hour. If enough of them leave the reception area, you may find a large percentage of your guest just hanging out in the smoking area. This can be a big problem if you have many smokers in your wedding party. You don't have to allow smoking, but it is something you should consider, especially if anyone has any health problems like asthma or allergies that could be triggered by smoke. If you decide not to allow smoking in the reception area, how close is the nearest place for a smoker to go? Is it close enough that you will be able to get needed wedding party members during events like the bouquet toss or garter auction?

Facility coordinators will no doubt bring up several other factors for you to consider when you interview them for your booking, but these are often missed items, especially if they don't favor the potential venue. If you keep the overall picture in mind and work with your wedding planner or event coordinator on the decorating ideas, you will no doubt have an enjoyable and memorable wedding reception.

The Perfect Wedding Dress For The Bride

2010-01-13T16:56:00.000-08:00

Many brides begin dreaming about the perfect wedding dress long before they are even engaged. Choosing the perfect wedding dress is critical because it is the one day that all eyes will be on you. A dress that is beautiful without being too ostentatious and is also flattering to your figure will ensure that you are looking your best on your wedding day. With so many style, color and fabric options available, choosing the perfect wedding dress can be a difficult task but fortunately most brides simply know when they have found the perfect wedding dress. From the moment they put on the dress, their gut instinct tells them that this is the perfect wedding dress for them.

The most important piece of advice for shopping for the perfect wedding dress is to begin shopping for your dress at least six months before your wedding date. Finding the perfect dress can take quite a bit of time and once you find the dress, it may take up to four months for the dress to be ordered and shipped to the store. Then once the dress arrives in the store you may require several fittings to ensure that the dress fits you perfectly. You will want to take your time and enjoy shopping for your wedding dress so it is important to begin the process early so that you avoid feeling rushed and overwhelmed.

Another worthwhile piece of advice for finding the perfect wedding dress is to try on many different styles of dresses. Even though you may be convinced that you want a particular style you may find that the style that looks so appealing in magazines does not suit your body type. You may also find that a style that you would have never chosen can be flattering to your figure. For this reason it is important to try on a wide variety of styles before ruling out any particular style. The old saying, “you won’t know unless you try it,” holds true for wedding dresses. There have been countless brides who have found that their perfect wedding dress turned out to be significantly different from the one that they had pictured in their mind.

Although it may sound counterintuitive, the color of the wedding dress is an important consideration in choosing the perfect wedding dress. Many people think that the only acceptable color for a wedding dress is a pure white but if you are open to other options, you may find yourself in a wedding dress that is far more flattering to your skin tone than a pure white dress. Wedding dresses come in a multitude of colors including ivory, cream and even subtle beiges. If you are willing to consider these options it is important to try on dresses in these colors to see how they work with your complexion.

Choosing the perfect wedding dress sometimes requires reinforcements. Having a few trusted friends or family members come dress shopping with you can help you find the dress of your dreams. They can offer opinions on each dress that you try on and can also scour the countless racks of dresses available and choose dresses for you to try on. Many brides instantly know that they have chosen the perfect wedding dress the moment they put on the dress but having trusted friends and family members along can confirm this feeling. The moment you step out of the dressing room and reveal the dress you are wearing you may see instant confirmation that this is the perfect dress. The reactions of your assistants will indicate that you have found the perfect dress.

When you have found the perfect wedding dress, you will know it so now is also the time to buy the dress. Nothing is more important than your gut feeling and the reactions of your shopping partners so if you know you have the perfect dress in your hands, don’t risk losing the dress by opting to think about it for a few days before you make your purchase. There is always the chance that the last available dress will be sold or that the company will discontinue the dress so do not allow yourself to miss out on buying the perfect wedding dress by not buying it the moment you realize it is the dress for you.

The wedding dress is a critical element in a wedding. It is what makes a bride truly stand out and it is important for the bride to ensure that she has chosen the perfect wedding dress. The minute a future bride steps into a wedding dress she will know instantly whether or not it is the perfect dress. It’s important to trust this gut reaction and act accordingly in choosing the perfect wedding dress

The Beauty Of Wedding Favors

2010-01-13T16:54:00.001-08:00

Wedding favors have been around since ancient times. This deep-rooted tradition appears to have originated as a means for the wedding couple to express their gratitude to wedding guests for being part of their wedding day.

The idea of wedding reception favors has evolved to today’s way of brides and grooms letting their guests take home part of the magic of their special day. In different shapes, colors & sizes, wedding favors have become the means by which couples say "Thank you for sharing our special day with us" to their guests. Wedding reception favors can also reperesent an extension of the couple’s personalities as wedding favors, very often, reflect the theme of the wedding.

Dealing with a guest list of 150, the task of making the wedding favors may seem daunting. As a result, there are vendors specializing in wedding favors. Such businesses are devoted to the ordering, wrapping & personalizing of wedding favors. Reputable businesses also provide the shipping of the wedding favors to the reception location. It makes perfect sense to order your wedding favors from wedding favors specialty shops as they understand the industry and can help match the favor to your wedding budget. These wedding vendors have a wide range of wedding related products for you to choose from.

How to choose your wedding favors?

There are many different kinds of wedding favors available to brides. As brides and grooms select their wedding favors, they should consider their wedding budget and their wedding theme. Your wedding colors can be carried over to the colors of your wedding favors.

The following is a list of wedding favors that make wonderful keepsakes for your wedding guests.

Edible Wedding Favors

Personalized Chocolates
Foil Wrapped Chocolate Hearts
Foil Wrapped Chocolate Flowers
Mints
Wedding Converation Hearts

Non-edible wedding Favors

Whatever wedding favors you choose for your special day, the idea of giving out favors is a good one, and is one you should enjoy. What a wonderful way to let your guests know you appreciate their presence at your wedding.

Popular Wedding Favors

2010-01-13T16:53:00.000-08:00

Brides and grooms around the world are thanking their guest with small gift items called wedding favors. The wedding favor can be almost anything that shows appreciation. Some wedding favors are homemade, but most brides buy their favors from professionals. The most important aspect of the wedding favors is that it shows that you care. With favors you let people know that their presence is important and appreciated.

There are many different kind of wedding favors. Here are some of the most important categories.

Personalized Wedding Favors

Personalization adds that special personal touch so many brides and grooms seek. The most important personalized wedding favors are personalized chocolate bars. The custom wrapped chocolates enable to the bride and groom to have their names and date printed on the wrapper. Some companies even print a special message like “Thank you for sharing our special day!” on the back. Certainly, almost any wedding favor can be personalized but personalized candy is the most important of all.

Flower Seeds

Flower seeds are becoming more and more popular wedding favors. There are too many creative options to present flower seeds as favors to mention, but printed flower seed bags are among the most popular. Some companies even offer printing messages such as “I Love You!” on plantable beans. Flower seed wedding favors are popular with guests because once planted, they are a constant reminder of your wedding day.

Soaps and Beauty Favors

Rose soap petals are beautiful and also functional wedding favors. There is a company that offers a personalized champagne shape bottle filled with bath gel. Soaps and beauty wedding favors are great to be placed in the hotel rooms of your out of town guests. A heart shape manicure set or compact mirror is sure to be a hit with your guest.

Candle Wedding Favors

Both men and women can enjoy candle wedding favors. Candles come in all shapes, colors, and themes. There are candles in the shape of wedding cakes. Rose shape candles are a sure hit with flower lovers. Seashell gel candles are the perfect wedding favor for the beach theme or destination wedding.

Chrome and Metal Favors

Chrome wedding favors ad a touch of elegance to any wedding. A chrome wine stopper or bottle opener is a great way to ad a touch of elegance to your wedding. The chrome wedding favors may be a bit more expensive, but your guest will cherish them for a long time.

Planning Your Wedding Budget

2010-01-13T16:51:00.000-08:00

Money is the number one thing that married couples fight about. But do you realize that the tension surrounding money begins long before the happy couple say 'I do?' Wedding costs can rapidly escalate out of control which is why it's so important to begin the planning by devising a realistic budget. And once you've got the numbers crunched, it's equally important that you both stick to the budget.

And while a wedding budget doesn't sound all that glamorous, it doesn't have to be a bad thing. In fact, planning your wedding without a budget is almost guaranteed to land you into serious financial debt. What's the key to success? As it will be throughout your marriage, open, honest, two-way communication is an absolute must.

Newly-engaged couples must talk about how each envisions his and her special day. Women work on the assumption that guys don't care about the details but that's not always true. It is, after all, the man's big day, too and he has a family to please as well.

Once the excitement of the engagement wears off, go somewhere quiet and talk about what's important to each of you in regards to your wedding day. Listening to your partner's opinion is as important as talking so be sure to do both. Then, make a list of what you both want (to arrive in a horse-drawn carriage, lobster, renaissance theme, color scheme, etc.) and what are absolute necessities (for example a photographer, caterer, rings, etc.). You're going to use this information when it's time to allocate your budget.

Once you both have an idea of what's important, it's time to crunch the numbers. You've got to determine how much money is available now (for example, in savings accounts, stocks/bonds, real estate, trust funds), how much you'll have to commit to saving from your regular income streams, and how much you can realistically expect others to kick in. Depending on how far out the actual wedding date is you may want to consider opening a higher-interest bearing account for the money so that it can earn interest.

When considering what others may be able to put towards the cause it's really important that you don't make unrealistic demands. Take whatever others are willing to contribute graciously and try not to belabor the issue. Getting angry or disappointed in the amounts you are being given isn't a very mature way of handling the situation.

When you know where the money's coming from and how much is coming, you'll know how much you'll be able to spend. Now make another list of all wedding-related expenses and allocate a dollar amount or the percentage you're willing to spend next to each item. This will help when you're actually contracting for these services. Remember that if you exceed your budgeted amount in one category, you'll have to scale back another so your budget will stay balanced. Because budgeting is so very important for most couples, you'll find that wedding budget worksheets, software and other tools are available everywhere, so go find one and start using it right now!

Planning The Perfect Wedding 2

2010-01-13T16:50:00.000-08:00

The final week before your wedding day can be a stressful time filled with many details that need to be confirmed. Some of the last minutes details that need to be completed in the week before your wedding include confirming the details of your honeymoon, packing for your honeymoon, giving the caterer a final count for the number of guests, confirm details with the photographer, florist, DJ or band and the limousine driver. If the couple is hosting the rehearsal dinner, now is also the time to confirm these arrangements. It’s important to attend to all of these tasks but it is also important to take some time to get some rest and relaxation as well. If you have friends and family members who are willing to help out, you can delegate many of these tasks to reduce the stress of the final week before your wedding.

The first thing to consider is whether you want a live band or a DJ to perform at your wedding. There are a couple of things to consider when deciding between a live band or a DJ. The first thing is price. A DJ is likely to cost considerably less than a live band. A DJ is usually just one person or possibly two people while a band usually consists of an average of about five performers. Right there is where you typically see a rise in cost because the fee you see in bands is usually split between quite a few people and therefore higher than the fee for one or two DJs.

Most caterers also require a final count for the number of guest in the week preceding your wedding. If all of your guests have not yet responded to your invitation, you might want to consider calling them instead of assuming that they will not be coming to the wedding. These phone calls can save you the embarrassment of not being prepared for additional guests. Having a confirmed response from all of your invited guests will ensure that you give the caterer an accurate number of guests.

The most important tip for choosing a live band or DJ is to make sure that you have the opportunity to see them perform before you commit to their services. Most live bands and DJs that perform at weddings gain popularity through their performances at other weddings. The best way to find a live band or DJ that will do a great job at your wedding is to use a live band or DJ that you enjoyed at the wedding of a friend or family members.

The rehearsal dinner is usually held the night before the wedding so it is important to confirm the details of the rehearsal dinner in the final week before the wedding. Whether the couple themselves is hosting the dinner or another person is taking on the responsibilities of the event, it is still necessary to confirm all of the details such as time, location and number of guests. Also, since the couple typically uses the rehearsal dinner to thank their parents, the wedding party and anyone else who has supported them in the wedding planning, now would be the time to plan out exactly what you plan to say during this offering of thanks. While it is important to speak from the heart, it’s also important to make sure that no one who has really gone out of their way to assist the couple is left out of the thank you speech.

You may find that there are a variety of live bands and DJs available for hire in your area. This could make choosing just one a difficult task. One great way to ensure that you are choosing a good live band or DJ is to seek recommendations from close friends or family members. If you didn’t attend their wedding or don’t remember their entertainment, ask them if they would recommend their live band or DJ. If they do come highly recommended, ask your friend or family member if you can borrow a copy of their wedding video. Pay special attention to the parts of the video where the guests are dancing and decide if you think the live band or DJ might work for your wedding.

Although you may be certain that you wish to hire a particular band or DJ but try to interview at least three to five potential candidates before making your final decision just for comparison. You may find you feel more comfortable with a service provider or that there is another band or DJ that suits your needs better than your previously preferred candidate. Finally, once you make your decision make sure you obtain a detailed contract that specifies all of the details of your wedding as well as all of your expectations.

Planning That Perfect Wedding 1

2010-01-13T16:48:00.000-08:00

Getting married is a big step. It is the day that girls dream of as the most momentous event of their lives. Preparations fall on the bride to ensure that this becomes a special day.

A perfect wedding – every bride’s dream come true. For many girls, kissing with a backdrop of a beautiful sunset is the best, or a horse-drawn carriage stopping at a castle, or maybe even an exotic ceremony made special by a native tradition. However the wedding may be, some may require that very special venue, albeit overseas.

Weddings held within the community are not easy as it is, but why sell yourself short on this momentous occasion? Why not go for a special destination? The ambiance and the romanticism of the affair will make it a wedding to remember and that should be worth it. Besides, “destination weddings” could end up costing less by making it more intimate with just the couple, immediate family members and a few close friends.

So what do you do? Where do you start?

Start with yourself. What kind of wedding do you want? Do you want to be married in a castle, at the beach, at a hilltop, in a world-famous cathedral or in a renowned garden? Once you’ve decided on the kind of venue you want, you can choose the best country where you can find these venues.

The oldest cathedrals in the world are found in Europe. The basic element of cathedral weddings is the strict adherence to traditional Christian precepts – minimum age requirement, parental guidance, certificates of baptism of the bride and the groom, a white gown for the bride and a ceremony that should include a liturgy. Aside from these, other aspects – grand choir, lengthy entourage, and flambouyant church decors – are all optional.

For gardens, beaches, hilltops, castles and other venues, the list of requirements vary depending on the country.

The first thing to do is to get as much information about weddings in the venue. This can be done online. Websites and brochures will normally have a list of what is required. If the place is a national treasure, your local embassy would have this too.

There will also be paperwork to do and you’ll need to take care of legal matters. Gather all the papers you will need – birth certificates, passports, proofs of identity, etc. Make copies of everything.

You have to make sure of the requirements for the validity of the wedding ceremony in the country of your choice. Coordinate with your own consulate in that country for guidelines. Also, determine if the country requires a minimum residency period for people who get married there, and keep that in mind when making the preparations.

As for your list of guests, you will have to be firm about this. Many people will want the chance to travel, so choose well.

Once you’ve decided what you want, you can begin to shop for a wedding coordinator in that country to do all the work for you. Or you can opt to coordinate yourself and enjoy the thrills of getting into the details. Either way, you are just beginning the exciting journey to being married.

Avoid Wedding Rip-Offs

2010-01-12T16:56:00.000-08:00

Planning a wedding can be a stressful event. The last thing you need is to be ripped-off by an unscrupulous wedding vendor or planner. Here are a few tips to help avoid this problem.

Make Your Wedding Arrangements and Bookings As Far In Advance As Possible

Most facilities, vendors, and planners can be booked more than a year in advance. If possible, take advantage of this window of opportunity. Should something go wrong, it will provide you with more time to make alternate arrangements. Also, be aware that some vendors will actually charge you more if you order or book things at the last minute.
Shop Around and Deal With Trustworthy People

Before booking anything you should shop around and get an idea of current prices for each category of your wedding. Don't just hire the first caterer you meet with. Ask around with family, friends, co-workers, etc. and get their recommendations about services they may have used. If you want to be extra safe in this regard, you could also call your local Better Business Bureau. They can provide you with any problem information they may have received regarding a particular company.

Get Everything in Writing

It would seem obvious to do this, but a lot of couples tend to go on "faith" of what a vendor says, then are shocked with the vendor doesn't follow through. Get everything, down to the smallest detail, in writing and be sure both you and the vendor agree on all points before signing any contract. Include exact descriptions, such as if you are ordering flowers: how may bouquets, the exact type and color of the flowers, etc.

Be Aware of The Fine Print

Read any contracts over very carefully. Pay particular attention to their cancellation policy. You want to make sure it includes a provision for a refund of the deposit if you cancel or change your wedding date by a certain time period before your wedding. Of course, reasonably, you would not get a deposit back if you cancelled two days before the wedding. Be sure to also include a written statement on the contract that you will not pay for services and will expect a complete refund on any deposits if the company does not deliver exactly as specified in the contract. A reputable company will respect this clause.

Regarding Photographers and DJ's

When booking these services with a company, often you may wish to have a particular photographer/videographer and DJ for your wedding because you have seen their work or heard their play style and really like it. Make sure this is detailed on the contract with the person's name. Again, also include the clause that if that particular person is substituted, you will not pay for the service and will receive a refund on all deposits.

This happened at our wedding with the DJ. The one we were told was coming and who knew how our ceremony music was laid out did not show up, and the substitute DJ that showed had no idea how the wedding service was to proceed with the music. There was a mess up with some songs during the ceremony and we had no recourse, as we didn't include that provision in the contract. So be aware of this. Don't pay for a last minute substitute (unless you were thoroughly happy with their service).

Are you searching for a Bridesmaid Cheap Dress?

2010-01-12T16:54:00.001-08:00

Planning a wedding can be one of the most exciting, happy, and stressful times of the bride’s life. It is a time filled with high emotions, loss of sanity, and gleeful delight as she plans the most important party of her life. Part of the planning involves choosing bridesmaids, and then of course, the bridesmaid dresses. Just like wedding gowns, the bridesmaid dresses can range in price from a few hundred dollars to the thousands. If you are a bride on a budget, your bridesmaids may be as well, which is why it is important to find cheap bridesmaid dresses.
Once you have decided on your color palette for the wedding, you should have a good idea of what color your bridesmaids will be wearing. At that point, it is time to choose the bridesmaid dresses. Some women, when they think of a bridesmaid dress simply cringe, however with today’s new styles with charming ruffle trims, floral embellishments, flattering necklines, varied hemlines, and scope of fabric, there is no need to worry.

With all sorts of fashionable upgrades for bridesmaid dresses, you may be worried about an upgrade in price as well. Many fashion designers release bridesmaid lines that are completely affordable for any bridesmaid, no matter what her financial status is. Some of the higher level and couture designers, such also offer a ready-to-wear line, so that finding a cheap bridesmaid dress is even easier than expected. Many brides and their maids worry when looking for cheap bridesmaid dresses that inexpensive means poor quality, which is hardly the case. With so much competition out there, many design houses now are offering high quality and fashionable bridesmaid dresses at competitive prices.

One way to find cheap bridesmaid dresses is to shop around. There are many different wedding related websites and resources online that help brides and their maids find the perfect dress for the occasion. In fact, many of these resources offer discount codes, special offers, and tips on finding affordable bridal fashions. Also, many bridal salons will offer a discount when buying several dresses at a time, perfect for cheaper bridesmaid dresses.

When shopping around for bridesmaid dresses, one of the most popular tips is to check the bridal salons for bridesmaid dresses from the previous season. Many dresses from previous seasons are still just as fashionable, but are sold at discounted rates. Always be sure to check the sale sections of any bridal fashion websites and salons when on the prowl for cheap bridesmaid dresses, you may just find the perfect one.

All About Wedding Rings

2010-01-12T16:53:00.000-08:00

You get to the alter and you say your I do’s and it's time for the best man to present the wedding rings, he pats his top pockets then his bottom pockets and you stare at him getting worried that may be he has forgotten or lost the most important part of your wedding, the rings! But there they are in his inside pocket and he passes them over to you and a look of relief washes over your face!

Wedding rings are the be all and end all to any wedding, they are usually just plain gold bands and it is the engagement ring that has the diamonds. But some men like to spoil a woman and get her a wedding ring encrusted with diamonds. Like they say diamonds are a girl's best friend! The wedding rings are usually put on the fingers at the end of the vows and then there is the famous “kiss the bride” moment.
The wedding bands symbolize unity and a constant circle, they are you and your partner together through everything, thick and thin, sickness and health and everything else that a married couple in love will go through together but it means that although there may be rocky or bubbly parts you will still be together to the end and the circle will continue! Some mothers pass their wedding rings down to their daughters as a symbol of love and friendship, not when they are married of course, but when their husband passes away and they are left widowed.

Wedding rings are usually bought from a jeweller but they can be purchased second hand or even on the internet, yes the internet does sell everything these days! The most important part of the wedding is saying "I do" then slipping that ring onto the person that you love finger knowing that you will spend the rest of your life loving them and cherishing them, no day is more special than your wedding day!

A Guide To Bridesmaids Dresses

2010-01-12T16:51:00.000-08:00

Choosing bridesmaids dresses is no easy task, but it’s one of the most exciting and often the most emotional parts of the wedding planning process.

Inviting the special women in your life to be your bridesmaids; your sisters, your lifelong friends, your cousins and special family friends; is a way to seal important friendships during this very special time in your life. Choosing the bridesmaids dress, whether you do it yourself or together with your bridesmaids, is an integral part of the tradition.
Tips on Choosing the Right Dresses for your Bridesmaids

Naturally, it’s the bride who will be the focus of attention on her wedding day, but it’s important for the bridesmaids to look gorgeous too. Choose something simple and not overdecorated or detailed, but which will make your bridesmaids look elegant, sophisticated and feminine.

It’s important to choose a dress style which will flatter everyone’s figure. This is never an easy task, but empire waists and A-line or princess skirts will tend to suit most shapes and sizes.

If your bridesmaids have very different figure types and heights, and you think they might feel uncomfortable in matching dresses, a nice alternative is to choose the fabrics and colors, and allow each individual bridesmaid to choose her own dress style.

Always keep a budget in mind for your bridesmaids gowns. It’s very unfair to expect your bridesmaids to buy overly expensive dresses, and it may damage your relationship with some of the most important women in your life. Around $100-250 each dress is generally considered a reasonable cost. If you have your heart set on a more expensive gown, you might consider making up the difference yourself.

Classic Looks for Bridesmaids

Any kind of formal gown, semi-formal or evening dress can be chosen as a bridesmaids gown, so you have literally thousands of options. Satin, organza, chiffon, georgette, tulle, lace, brocades, and crepe are all classic fabrics for bridesmaid dresses. Whether you choose real silks and imported laces, or more economical alternatives will depend on your budget.

It’s traditional to choose a one-piece dress or gown, but separates are definitely an option. Mixing and matching separate blouses and skirts makes it easier to find a style which suits each individual bridesmaid.

You should think about the time of year you plan to hold the wedding, and how this will effect your gown choices. Choose lighter fabrics for summer, and a sleeveless or even a strapless dress style. If your wedding is planned for a cooler time in the year, long skirts and sleeves are best, or include a shawl or wrap as part of the outfit.

It’s a nice idea to choose your colors according to the time of year also. Fresh, soft colors are lovely for spring and summer; golds, copper tones and rusty reds for fall, and deep marine blues, teal green, deep burgundies and plums, or platinum shades for winter.

Choose colors which will match the flowers which are in bloom at the time of year, so your gowns will tone in nicely with the bouquets. Discussing your color ideas with your favorite florist will make the job of choosing colors much easier.

For a very sophisticated, formal look, black or black and white never goes out of style.. Alternating black and white solid panels has a very dramatic effect.

For a more romantic look, use white or a solid color overlaid with black lace, either as a feature of the dress itself, or as a shawl or wrap.

Soft, pretty pastel shades like lilac, powder pink, cream, platinum and eggshell blue are always popular colors for bridesmaid dresses, because they always look good together with the white or ivory shade of the bridal gown. Adding dramatic color accents in the bouquets creates a very attractive look for the wedding party as a whole.

Another idea which works very well for bridesmaids gowns is to use a silk or satin fabric with a subtle crossweave in a contrasting color, and match the bouquets to the crossweave color. The bouquets will bring out and enhance the color highlights in the dress fabric, which has a very pretty effect.

Accessories for Bridesmaids

The simplest look will tend to work best, so accessories should best be kept to a minimum. Often a simple pair of earrings, a brooch or necklace is all the jewelry you’ll need. It’s traditional for the bride to give the bridesmaids their jewelry as a gift, which is a lovely idea.

For a very formal look, shawls, gloves and even small tiaras are always appropriate as bridesmaids’ accessories.

Keep comfort as well as style in mind when you choose shoes for your bridesmaids. Very high heels may be uncomfortable to stand in for any period of time. Also consider the fact that the bridesmaids will most likely be wearing the shoes for the wedding ceremony and the reception, so choose shoes which will be comfortable to wear all day, then dance away the night.

A Diamond Ring Will Be More Stunning And Valuable When You Know What To Look For!

2010-01-12T16:49:00.001-08:00

When choosing a diamond ring, you have to consider the 4 Cs to ensure that you are buying the right quality and the right style of diamond for you. They are Cut, Carat, Color, and Clarity.

Cut: A well cut diamond is beautiful because it's very brilliant. Of all the variables affecting the value of a diamond ring, the cut is the most crucial.
A well cut diamond is the work of a master diamond cutter, since it is the cut that enables the diamond to reflect light, creating that glitter and sparkle. When a diamond is well proportioned, light is reflected from one facet to another and dispersed through the top of the stone as rainbows of color, making it is so exotic to look at.
Carat: The carat is actually a measurement of weight, not size. One carat is divided into 100 points. 1.00 ct is equal to .20 grams. Carat is the easiest of the 4 C's to determine.
One carat is divided into 100 "points," so that a diamond of 75 points, for example, weighs .75 carats, 50 points weighs .50 carat etc. Fine quality can be found in diamonds of all carat weights.

Color: Diamonds are found in a range of colours - from colorless to yellowish, and judged according to a color grading scale from "D", which is totally colorless through to "Z" which is vivid yellow.
It is the colorless diamond that is the most valued because it is the rarest. The average stone carries an I or J grading for its color. In addition to that, there are twelve other colors called Fancies, and as the name implies, they are expensive.

Clarity: Most diamonds contain tiny natural birthmarks called inclusions and are mostly not visible to the naked eye, but can be seen with a 10X magnification.
Inclusions interfere with the dispersion of light and therefore the diamond's brilliance gets reduced. The fewer and smaller the inclusions, the rarer the stone and higher the price.

While inclusions do not generally affect the diamond's beauty and usually cannot be seen, their presence reduces the price. Clarity is graded on a scale with a range from internally flawless (IF), very small inclusions (VVS1-VVS2), very small inclusions (VS1-VS2), small inclusions (SI1-SI2) to imperfect (I1-I2-I3) with eye visible inclusions.

10 Must Have Gift Ideas For The Wedding Party

2010-01-11T12:54:00.000-08:00

It is traditional for the bride to give the groom a gift on the wedding day. Although the wedding rings that the couple exchanges can be considered gifts, many brides choose to honor their groom with an additional gift that suits his personality.

The gift of the bride and groom exchanging gifts is beginning to fade as many couples who spend a great deal of money on their wedding or honeymoon may decide that there is no need to exchange gifts in addition to the wedding and honeymoon. If you do decide to honor your groom with a gift on your wedding day, it is more important to choose an item that he is sure to enjoy than it is to spend a great deal of money on the gift.

A photo album complete with a picture of you and the bridesmaid or the entire wedding party can be another unique gift idea for the bridesmaids. You could purchase photo albums with the date of your wedding engraved on the front cover and start the photo album with a picture of you and the bridesmaid. This is a wonderful gift idea because the bridesmaid can place her photos from the wedding day in the album and will always have a precious souvenir from your wedding day.

Gift certificates to a spa or a salon also make unique gift ideas for your bridesmaids. Your bridesmaids most likely spent a great deal of time and energy in helping you to plan your wedding. The week prior to your wedding was also probably especially hectic with a great deal of last minute details to attend to and errands to run. While you will have your honeymoon to relax and renew your energy your bridesmaids do not have this luxury so by honoring them by presenting them with a gift certificate to a spa or salon you are giving them the gift or being pampered and the gift of relaxation.

A few more unique gift ideas for your bridesmaids’ gifts include handcrafted or homemade gifts. For example you could put together a CD of some of your bridesmaids’ favorite songs. You could make the CDs different for each bridesmaid and include a photo of the two of you on the cover and include a heartfelt poem on the inside of the CD cover. You could also create a scrapbook for each of your bridesmaids. You could either make the scrapbook a memory of your entire friendship together and include photos and other items from your various adventures throughout the years or if you plan ahead and take many photos documenting your wedding preparations, you could create scrapbooks as a remembrance of the wedding planning that you shared.

Any item that relates to a specific hobby that the groom enjoys is a great idea for a wedding gift for the bride to give to the groom. This is a popular choice because giving a gift that relates to one of his hobbies demonstrates that you understand his likes and that you want him to continue to engage in activities that he enjoys.

Another unique gift idea for a bride to give to her bridesmaids is a gift certificate to a local restaurant. Assisting in your wedding preparations was probably extremely stressful and time consuming for the bridesmaids and they certainly deserve a night on the town and the opportunity to not have to cook for a night. This simple gift lets your bridesmaids know that you appreciate their efforts and that you want to thank them for all that they have done to support you.

Unique gift ideas for the bridesmaids can also stem from the wedding theme. For example if you are having a beach themed wedding you might want to give your bridesmaids a gift of a tote bag, a beach towel and a novel to enjoy on the beach. This unique gift idea ensures that your bridesmaids will remember your wedding fondly the next time they are at the beach.

Although the tradition of the bride and groom exchanging gifts on their wedding day is beginning to fade, many couples still wish to honor this tradition. Many couples spend so much money on their wedding and reception that they feel as though they cannot afford the additional expense of buying gifts for each other. While it may be true that the couple cannot afford one more extravagant gift it is also true that a truly thoughtful gift for the groom does not have to be overly expensive. If the couple is partaking in this tradition it is advisable that they exchange gifts that truly reflect the personality of their spouse.

8 Tips For Picking The Perfect Wedding Dress

2010-01-11T12:51:00.000-08:00

When little girls spend their math classes daydreaming of weddings (instead of winning the World Series -- not to say you can't do both), what do they dream of first? The perfect wedding dress, of course: a gown in white satin with a bustle and sweeping train, the perfect embellishments, and the perfect shoes.

There are few occasions in our modern world where a woman finds herself in a position to wear a no-holds-barred ball gown, much less a crystal tiara, and all too many where she's called on to wear to a neutral suit or uninspiring "biz-caz" combo. No wonder that with so many brides, their wedding plans start with the dress.

Many of these brides are lucky. They may search high and low, braving chilly department stores and pushy bridal shops, but eventually they come face-to-face with The One. They know this is The One because they start crying, or their mother or friends all start crying at once. Suddenly the rest of the planning ... the theme, the tone, the right kind of venues ... it all springs to life.

Other brides aren't as fortunate. They've searched just as hard, working their way through shops across three or four states, but they haven't found The One. Instead, they've found three or four Contenders, all of which are serviceable and nice, but not earth-shattering enough to tell them that now is definitely time to stop the searching and get on with the planning. These brides have it harder.

Even if you're the first kind of bride, buying the dress is such a momentous decision that you run a risk of falling into that wallet-skinning category known as the Two-Dress Bride. Here are some tips for picking the perfect dress and avoiding that awful fate.

Bring the entourage, but don't buy. It's fun and useful to bring your mother, friends or sisters on the dress-shopping expedition. It gives you a buffer against an overbearing sales staff, and it's fun to see if your impressions of perfection are shared by your loved ones, not to mention how they'll love being part of such an important decision. But no matter how enthusiastic everyone gets over a certain dress, don't buy in the heat of the moment. Give yourself time to reconsider and buy with a cool head later, alone. The vast majority of dresses are non-returnable, so when you've bought it, you've bought it.
Don't buy too early unless you must. Bridal gowns can take four to ten months to come from the manufacturer, but there's no reason to buy over a year ahead of time, unless your chosen style is going to be discontinued. Give yourself some time to sit on your decision. Once you pick a gown, you'll see a hundred others nearly like it. You'll become a walking encyclopedia on that style of gown. All the better if you still have room to choose.
If you've bought "The One," stop shopping. Any more window-shopping at this point will only lead you down the road toward the dreary land of Two-Dress Brides. What you need to do instead is remember that blissful feeling of having tried on The One. Go get The One out of the closet, put it on and stand in front of the mirror. You'll remember exactly why it's The One.
If you've bought "The One" and can't stop shopping, get a second opinion. Show your first and second choices to other brides. Be honest -- tell them you've already remortgaged your condo for the first dress, but you think this second dress might be It. They'll be truthful, too -- the first one was better. You'll feel reassured.
Don't tell yourself "I'll sell the old dress and choose a new one." This old saw of the Two-Dress Bride just won't work. You'll never get more than a fraction of what you paid for your first dress if you bought it new.
Don't be afraid to aim high -- no matter what your budget. Some brides knew from the start they wanted a designer label, but life just didn't cooperate by making them heiresses. Yet all is not lost if you're willing to shop courageously. At any given moment, a better-heeled bride is selling her once-used St. Pucchi or Ulla-Maija on eBay. She paid thousands upon thousands, but you, smart shopper, will pay half that or less. To take this road, you must shop earlier than other brides so you'll have a choice of gowns. Always pay with a credit card so you'll have recourse if the dress doesn't arrive in acceptable condition, and again, shop early so you can buy another if necessary. Shop courageously, but not recklessly.
Shop online, but never send a check. Bridal gown businesses sometimes have a way of disappearing overnight. No matter what the proprietor tells you, never make a purchase as large as a wedding gown without the chargeback protection of a credit card. If they say they can't take plastic, move on.
Don't hold out forever for The One. Some brides never find The One. What they do find is a few dresses they look beautiful in. If you're this bride, try starting your planning from the theme instead of the dress. You'll probably eventually get sick to death of dress shopping. When that happens, "good enough" really will be good enough. Concentrate on other aspects of the wedding that mean a lot to you, like the venue, the food, or the inevitable adoration of your soon-to-be husband.

A Guide to Hiring Wedding Professionals

2010-01-11T12:49:00.001-08:00

One of the most challenging things about getting married is finding and hiring the wedding vendors. However large or small their roles may be, they will have a significant impact in the overall outcome of your wedding day. Because of this, it is imperative to take your time and follow some very simple steps to ensure you are hiring quality and reputable wedding professionals that you can trust.

As you will soon discover, there is really no shortage of wedding vendors in any given category. The goal is finding the professional that is right for you, not only with product, service and price, but with personality as well. The search for wedding day vendors can begin in a number of places. Knowing where to look and what to look for will assist you in your search. The following are suggestions as to where you may begin the search for your vendors.

Bridal Shows

The greatest value in bridal shows is the opportunity to meet with a large number of wedding vendors and view many products at one time, in one location. There are many categories of vendors represented at the shows, making it an invaluable tool for doing research and for gathering wedding-related information. When you find vendors you particularly interested in, make a note of it and call soon after the show to book a personal one on one appointment.

Ceremony and Reception Location

The locations you select for your wedding day are quite familiar with particular vendors, and usually have a preferred vendor list. The vendors on this list have worked at that site many times before and are familiar with the logistics and rules of the location.

Friends and Family

You will usually get honest no nonsense answers and opinions regarding products and services when you ask married friends and family members (even co-workers) about their own weddings. Ask them about their vendors, the services they used, what they liked and didn’t like, would they hire them again, etc.?

The Internet

The Internet is an easy access, easy to use, anytime resource. You can find a wealth of vendors on the web. Checking out a vendor's web site can give you a good idea of pricing, packages, and type of work they do before making a personal appointment.

Local Bridal Magazines

Using local wedding magazines and directories can at first seem overwhelming, as there are a large number of advertisements in these publications. You can, however, find excellent vendors in the magazines, but it will take some calling around to acquaint yourself with these vendors.

Wedding Planners/Consultants

Wedding consultants have several pre-established relationships with local vendors. If you are working with a consultant, she should be able to provide you with preferred vendor list. However, if you are not working with a consultant, you can still benefit from this knowledge, as most consultants will share their preferred vendor list with you for a fee.

Conclusion

Once you have made your final decisions, you must get a written contract. Call the vendor to confirm the details and ask for a contract to be sent to you. A contract is the best way of ensuring you and the vendor understand what is expected, as it should outline specifics such as dates, times, names, and types of services/products provided. It will also spell out payment plans, refund and cancellation policies. It behooves you to read and understand the contract. Do not assume you have secured a vendor for your wedding day until you have a contract that is signed by you and the vendor. And finally remember, part of getting the most from a vendor’s service is also being a good client and providing the vendors with the payments and other requested information in a timely manner.

A Few Wedding Gift Ideas To Jog Your Mind

2010-01-11T12:47:00.000-08:00

So you've got a wedding coming up...Well aside from picking up a something to wear, you will also be needing a gift. Fortunately, getting a wedding present can be a relatively easy and even fun experience.

Here are a few wedding gift ideas to help jog your mind and memory.

The first option is to see if the couple has set up a 'wedding gift registry'. These days, the registry may be online and many online retailers offer set up a gift registry for couples to increase transactions. If there is a registry, you could simply pick a gift from here and buy that which is, of course, one of the easiest possible options. This also has an additional advantage that you probably won't be getting them a gift that someone else has already gotten them, because once you pick a gift from the registry, it is marked off as bought, for the other guests to see.
Another option is cold hard cash. While this may not be the most deeply thoughtful gift, it is damn practical and new couples have to be practical. Keep in mind the newlyweds are probably trying to save up for a mortgage on a home, a car, furnishings, or even to pay off debts and student loans. The bottom line is, cash is very helpful.

If you want to personalize a cash gift, be sure to put some thought into presenting the cash well. Maybe you could spend some time finding a hilarious gift card, with a nice picture and/or picture frame. You could even make your own card with something about the couple if you are close to them. There are many online services for making custom gift cards, and you can probably find funny or romantic quotes on the internet to use to personalize the card.

And lastly, there is the option of choosing your own unique gift. On our 100 gift ideas page you can may find something, but here are a 5 wedding gift ideas that might help:

Charter the couple a private sailboat for a day
A weekend house rental
A membership to monthly or quarterly wine club
A hot air ballooning trip
Some fancy new computer or electronic equipment for their home.

Getting the couple a unique gift can have its rewards. It stands out in their mind and may help to cement a friendship. Buying them a great experience like a romantic getaway house rental can be a great gift and very thoughtful and classy. Depending on how much you plan to spend, you could even plan for a bottle of wine or champagne to be waiting for them when they arrive.

In my opinion, the only kind of gifts you probably want to avoid are plain old gifts like a cuisinart (unless it is specifically listed in their gift registry). Gifts like a cuisinart are pretty unimaginative, bordering on flat out dull, and young couples will probably have an excess of semi-useless kitchen clutter after their wedding.

If the couple is dear to you, don't contribute to the pile of semi-useful, not-very-thoughtful gifts that clutter their living area in the months after the wedding. Take a few extra minutes and think up something cool. Even if it isn't their favorite thing, they'll probably appreciate your effort at getting something unique.

A Guide to Beautiful Wedding Invitations

2010-01-11T12:43:00.000-08:00

Wedding invitations are an integral part of a wedding’s theme and the “mood” you want to set for your ceremony. After all, if the purpose were to solely inform the guests of the details of the event, then you could just send an email or postcard. However, the invitation also serves as a souvenir of a special occasion, and an announcement of a couple’s love. Like the wedding ceremony itself, it must be beautiful and personal.

Selecting the Wedding Invitation’s Design

There are thousands of ready-made wedding invitations to choose from; simply select a design, send the details, and the printer can have it ready within weeks. With such a wide selection, it may be difficult to pick which one is best. Here are the things to consider:

Formal or casual. You want a wedding invitation to complement the overall theme and mood of the wedding. Is your wedding formal or casual? A formal wedding may need classic script fonts, formal wording, and the traditional double envelope. A more casual invitation may use more modern fonts and more natural wording (i.e., instead of “we cordially invite you”, say “please join us…”), but care must be taken to retain the solemnity of the occasion. Let’s say you want to enclose a photo of you and your fiancé—not typically done for traditional invitations. Wear appropriate clothes to the photo shoot: shorts and tank tops simply don’t work.
Color. You should always choose a subdued color. If you are using a rather bright color for your motif, like turquoise, opt for a delicate ribbon trim or small accents at the sides or corners rather than applying it to the whole invitation. This makes the invitation look more classy, and again, is in keeping with the nature of the event. It’s a wedding, not a night dancing at a trendy club.
Personal Touches. You can add a short poem, a photo of the couple, or a song lyric from the wedding ceremony.

Wedding Invitation Inserts

Most wedding invitation companies can provide a selection of templates where you just have to fill in the specific names, places and dates. However, many couples prefer to make their own, to make the invitation less stiff and more personalized. If so, here are a few guidelines:

It is not necessary to put the entourage in the invitation. However, you can have a separate piece of paper listing the members that can be inserted in select invitations—specifically those that go to the entourage themselves, and to the more immediate family and friends. They would appreciate the souvenir; plus, it is a way of thanking them for their participation.
You’d never forget to put the date and the venue, but many couples forget to put a map to the church and/.or reception area. A map would be very helpful, and would save many guests any inconvenience especially if the wedding is located in a place they are unfamiliar with.
If you are trying to control the number of guests, insert a small card that says, “We have reserved __ seats for you.” This is a subtle and polite way of minimizing the headcount.
If you are moving to a new home after the wedding, you can include another small insert announcing your new address.

Wedding Tips - Select Wedding Time for All Seasons

2010-01-11T05:05:00.001-08:00

In times gone by it wasn’t uncommon for young couples to consult the Tarot as to what month of the year according to the stars would be their best time to wed, this would depend on what time of year their sun or moon sign was inline with Venus the goddess of love, which I would take as a positive sign, and so on. Personally I would like to think that the longevity of a marriage would depend on the love of you and your partner and not on the date you get married.

These days the factors that make us decide differ a little. Each season brings its own style and flavor to a wedding. The time of year you choose to get married will indeed affect the style and economics of the wedding in many ways including location of the reception, honeymoon destinations, wedding theme and price. Whatever type of wedding you desire there will be a season to suit you.

An autumn wedding brings to mind golden and copper themes through the fabrics and the flowers. Flowers this season are earthy yet rich. Take bold colors in purples russets, yellow and reds. Add a natural twist with dark leafy foliages and wood containers. If you choose flowers that are in season this will bring down the cost a little.

Seasonal fruits that you can include on the menu are Apples and Pears; these are in season all year round. All these factors combined will bring a nice autumn breeze to the day. Bear in mind that August is quite popular for weddings, if you are having the reception in a hotel book well in advance. The weather is also superb if you are thinking of honeymooning in Europe. Stay clear of south East Asia though as these are experiencing their monsoon seasons.

The winter wonderland wedding, a very romantic setting of Burning log fires, mulled wine receptions and Christmas card settings. This would defiantly be an indoor wedding, maybe in a castle or Hotel adorned with rich reds and golden glowing candles.

A December wedding is a good idea as the wedding reception price is dropped in many hotels in the first few days after Christmas. The holiday spirit that is still lingering at this time will add to the atmosphere. Snowdrops, Tulips, Amaryllis, and White geisha include some of the winter blooms. Seasonal fruits to be enjoyed include winterberries, Apricots, Cherries and dates.

A New Years Eve wedding can be a good idea, ringing in the New Year with a festive and fun time for all involved. Honeymoon destinations for the winter months vary, you can opt for a skiing holiday with a romantic log cabin accommodation or maybe head for the sun kissed beached of Thailand. Keeping in mind flights are usually scarce and pricey around Christmas so book your honeymoon well in advance.

Spring / Summer sun will provide for beautiful garden weddings adorned with all of mother natures glory, a fabulous season for a wedding. The colors and flowers to choose from are in abundance from roses to the petals of the cherry blossom, the look of this season is relaxed and simple taking bold flowers and strong colors softening them with driftwood or delicate wisps of grass and raffia. Some of the fruits in season are Peaches, passion fruit, and Citrus fruits, and Quinces.

Freshly picked chocolate dipped strawberries would go down well with a champagne reception. A marquee would be a wonderful idea for this season allowing everyone to soak up the atmosphere, remember to include catering and furniture hire as part of the costs if you are watching the budget. The world is your oyster as far as honeymoons go but remember our summer is winter in most of the southern hemisphere including Australia.

Whatever your plans don’t stress yourself and take as much help from friends and family to make the big day one to remember for all. Booking your honeymoon online including accommodation and avoiding travel agents can save time and money.