Merry Brides

Thermography Printing

2011-08-14T09:27:00.000-04:00

QUICK TIP - Invitations

To save a ton of money on your invitations choose thermography printing instead of engraved printing. Both printing styles have raised lettering so your average guest will never even know the invitations aren't actually engraved.

How to Create Fruit Table Centerpieces

2011-02-10T12:33:00.000-05:00

These simple centerpieces can be a perfect (and inexpensive) way to spice up the other floral centerpieces you may already have. Add them to your head tables or even the buffet or dessert tables for an extra splash of color, or nestle smaller flowers throughout the centerpiece (like in the middle photo).

All you'll need are some large glass vases or bowls and plenty of citrus (limes and lemons work best). When you're picking your fruit, make sure the skins look bright and unblemished. Wash them lightly to remove any small pieces of dirt, but don't scrub too hard or you'll remove the wax. That wax coating can help give them more of a sheen in the vase and will keep them looking brighter longer.

For an added twist, incorporate that lush citrus scent by zesting a few of the pieces on the sides that won't face outward. You'll need to do this pretty last minute, as that citrus scent won't last more than a few hours. You can also sprinkle the zest over the finished centerpiece for an added fresh smell.

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Dancing Down the Isle

2011-01-24T07:09:00.000-05:00

When I first started watching this video I immediately thought they were going to ruin the wedding by dancing. However by the end of the video I realized I was smiling.

Like it or not, you have to give the bride and groom credit for originality and for keeping their guests entertained. :)

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Booking Your Honeymoon

2011-01-23T06:59:00.004-05:00

Planning your honeymoon doesn’t have to break your budget. With a little planning you can easily save money on your honeymoon whilst still having a great honeymoon.

When booking your honeymoon accommodation, look outside travel packages labeled as ‘Honeymoon.’ These packages are designed to play on your emotions and may have a considerable mark up price attached. These days it is simple enough to tailor and book a holiday package completely online.

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Winter Theme Weddings – 27 Ways to Tie in the Season

2011-01-21T08:54:00.000-05:00

Winter theme weddings can be uber chic and ethereal – an absolute wonderland, if you will. Read on for tips, ideas, and inspiration on planning a winter wedding.

Invitations & Stationery

Add a wintery motif – such as a snowflake or holly branch – to your stationery suite
Go white on white – and create a snowy first impression.
Add metallics – jazz it up with a hint of silver or gold.

Location

Think intimate and cozy – bed and breakfasts or inns complete with roaring fires and plush décor create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Bonus points if you can score a view overlooking a scenic winterscape.
Think elegant and grand – a formal hotel ballroom overlooking the city evokes a celebratory mood to match the holiday spirit.
Think seasonal activities – a ski lodge or mountain chalet guarantees a true winter experience and a nice getaway for your guests

Décor elements

Color palette – 1) new-fallen snow – use whites and creams accented with silver or gold. 2) winter sparkle – ice blue or navy accented with silver. 3) black tie – black is especially suited for a winter wedding when paired with white, silver or gold.
Go glam – deck your halls with crystal detailing for a sparkling winter effect – adorning linens and chair covers or sprinkled over table tops. The result is deliciously glam and oh so fab.
Liberal use of candle light – the glow will add warmth and elegance.
Holiday theme – decorate with potted evergreens, pine branches, wreathes, poinsettias, ornaments, bells, or twinkling white lights.

Flowers

Seasonal blooms – white stephanotis, poinsettia, holly, amaryllis, camellias, roses.
Added interest and texture – incorporate holiday greenery or tiny crystals into your arrangements
Creative bouquets – instead of flowers, carry tea lights, votive candles or cascading bells Tossing alternative – have your flower girl throw silver glitter or sprinkle fake snow.

Menu

Hearty dishes – serve heartier fare in sophisticated, creative ways – such as colorful butternut squash puree or warm pumpkin soup in ramekins or shot glasses.
Wintery beverages – warm guests with eggnog, spiced wine or mixed coffee drinks.

Cake

White on white – adorn an all white cake with marzipan snowflakes or swiss dots, or top with fresh white poinsettias or stephanotis
Get rich – serve a decadent chocolate cake or cheese cake with raspberry sauce/filling, and decorate with chocolate covered cherries or strawberries.
Top it off – use a decorative snow globe or snowflake as a seasonal topper

Attire

Rich fabrics – warm up to velvet, satin, brocade, and heavy silk
Add a layer – if your wedding dress is sleeveless or strapless, add a wrap, shrug or cape in white or in one of your wedding colors
Winter white – dress the wedding party, flower girl and ring bearer in winter white for a chic, clean look.
Black tie – formal attire at an elegant winter wedding is always a classic

Favors

Sip it – give decorative tins or packets of hot cocoa mix
Let it snow – inside mini snow globes
Celebrate – with splits of champagne
Indulge a sweet tooth – decorate sugar cookies as snowflakes, bells, or another seasonal emblem

♥♥ Here are some cute Winter ideas I found online ♥♥

Please visit our sister sites for more great daily wedding advice: Merry Brides Twitters
Merry Brides Inspirations

Fabulous Glitter Monogram Cake Topper

2011-01-20T07:38:00.001-05:00

What you’ll need:
- Hot glue gun
- spray adhesive
- small scissors
- glitter
- three pieces of cut wire in identical lengths
- (it needs to be thick enough gauge to stand up straight when placed in your cake)
- this template for your monogram letters printed on heavy card stock

Step 1: Print out your initials using this template
Step 2: Cut out the letters
Step 3: Spray your adhesive onto the letter
Step 4: Quickly sprinkle your glitter over the letter before the glue dries. Tap off any excess.
Step 5: Hot glue your wire to the back of your letter

When you are done, they are ready to stick into your cake. The beauty of the curly style font is that as you are cutting, it naturally creates dimension because of the tight curves.

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2011-01-11T07:22:00.004-05:00

HOMEMADE WEDDING BOOKS

Gift these sweet homemade blank books to your weddings guests as mementos of the fun day. Total cost per book is less than .25 cents and they are super easy to make! Three cheers go out to Chelsea Fuss for assembling this innovative idea.

You will need:
Scissors
A sewing machine
A paper cutter
Muslin fabric
Graph paper
Parchment paper
A computer or typewriter
Fabric stiffener (iron on or spray works great and is available at most fabric stores)

Directions:

1. Iron or spray on the fabric stiffener to the muslin.
2. Cut out pieces 3″ tall and 5″ long.
3. Use a paper cutter to cut pieces of graph paper 3″ tall and 4.5″ long.
4. Cut a piece of parchment paper 3″ tall and 4.5″ long.
5. Type on a computer (in a typewriter font) or use a typewriter to type a thank you message to your guests.
6. Piece the book together: muslin, parchment paper, title page (with message), and graph paper pages.
7. Fold in half and press with an iron.
8. Sew down the center.
9. Display in a wooden box with a message.

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New Year Resolutions for the Bride-To-Be

2011-01-07T20:23:00.002-05:00

Sorry I am about a week late but I wanted to take a chance to share good wishes and hopefully, some good advice. There are a lot of you newbie engaged ladies out there, and as you start a new year as the future Mrs. So-and-So, here are some Bridal solutions for you to consider adopting in 2011 to keep wedding planning FUN in those moments of STRESS. Congratulations!!!!!

1. Resolve to not lose sight of the Day After the Wedding. And I’m not talking about your post wedding brunch! You are marrying the most amazing guy person! You are lucky to have each other. After the cake is cut, the gifts are packed the the adorable favors taken home, you guys will have one another. So while the wedding is important, remember the next day is the real start of your new lives! If you keep that in mind, you’ll inevitably have MUCH more fun planning it all.

2. Resolve to be a gracious bride.
Oh, these people will MAKE YOUR CRAZY at times. Bridesmaids WILL be selfish at times and guests will sometimes pull some CRAZY, wacky stuff (what do you mean you want to bring your cousin and her 3 kids?????) BUUUUT, if you keep your head above the fray and remember to be GRACIOUS and thankful, your memories of your engagement will be MUCH sweeter. No one likes a Bridezilla, not even herself! (Seriously, I can’t tell you how many past bridezillas have called me months later to say “I’m not really like that!”)

3. Resolve to Compromise (Sometimes). It’s your day your way, but when arguments arise with Mom or In-laws or DH, sometimes its better (and easier) to stop, drop and roll. No, you don’t want to hire a band that your Mother-in-law loves or wear a dress just because your mom picked it out, but would it KILL you to have a menu card? Probably not. Would a monogrammed napkin totally ruin the aesthetic of your wedding? Not really. Don’t sweat the totally small stuff, and you’ll be able to put your foot down when it REALLY Matters.

4. Resolve to Trust your Team. Do your due diligence before you hire a vendor (Recommendations, ask around about them, look them up in magazines or online, check on insurance, etc) and then STOP DOUBTING them. If you have hired a true professional, they will care about doing an amazing job almost as much as you do. Energy, Negative, draining energy is constantly wasted Fretting over vendors who are already contracted. Remember, every vendor is a pro, but also a human, and negative questioning has never extracted top performance, in my experience.

5. Resolve to Stick to Your Schedule. I have to go to the gym 5 or 6 times a week not to act like a crazy Rhymes with Witch around the office. I know that about myself, so I have a schedule and I discipline myself to follow it. If you (or your planner) has set up a schedule for planning tasks and chores for your, STICK TO IT. It’s easy to let work and life derail you, but the more you spread out the TASKS of planning the wedding, the easier it is to NOT BE OVERWHELMED. Hire people in a timely manner, don’t drag out the process and stay on top of thank you notes and your registry. Work is very important, but you MUST prioritize your wedding as well.

6. Resolve to See the Big Picture. Read item 1, read Item 2 and combine. If you find yourself freaking out 6 months from now over a ribbon on a favor box, stop, walk around the block, or your desk, and ask yourself why? Maybe it’s not about the ribbon, and your annoyed that your fiance doesn’t care about the details you care about. Maybe you’re exhausted of making decisions. Maybe you need a little break. But remember, a ribbon is still a ribbon. It’s one tiny element that helps make the picture of your day: a painting stroke in the masterpiece of your wedding. It will not RUIN the image. Step back, see how great everything else is and move forward.

7. Resolve to Accept Possible Setbacks. Don’t take this as an omen, or as a “wait for shoe to drop”, please ladies, but sometimes there are random setbacks. I’ve had a wedding that needed to be relocated 8 weeks before the big day. Once, they put up a scaffold in front of a client’s venue the DAY before the wedding without anyone (even the venue) knowing. A friend’s MOH was put on bedrest and she wasn’t able to be at the wedding. They sound like horror stories, but ultimately, none of these things RUINED anyone’s wedding. And remember that, girls and boys. Sometimes, life’s complications sneak into wedding world. But they will not and cannot ruin your dream day!

8. Resolve to Do What You Can Afford. You aren’t going to win any awards by having the world’s largest wedding that you go into debt for. Assess what you can afford and commit yourself to having a reception that fits into that goal. Don’t be afraid to re-think what the wedding needs to be: maybe it’s a breakfast or brunch instead of dinner, or dessert reception with dancing.

9. Resolve to Celebrate who YOU guys both ARE. This doesn’t need to conflict with resolving to compromise, but listen, you only do this once…. If you guys are quirky, don’t be afraid to be QUIRKY. If you are formal, be FORMAL. Celebrate Culture, Celebrate Faith, Celebrate the things that made you love one another. If you are enjoying your party, so will your guests, so make it something you would love to attend. Resolve to have it be the kind of celebration that you guys would ACTUALLY host. If you would never have a sit down formal dinner, no one is telling you that you have to…. AND if you would NEVER have a low key cocktail party… well, consider cutting your guest list until you can have the kind of fabulous celebration you can swing…

10. Remember, PERSONAL is not generic and INSPIRING doesn’t mean replicating.Somewhere, personalizing a wedding (making it seem reflective of your personalities and unique to the two of you) got confused with slapping a monogram on anything that was imprintable and replicating every cute idea seen around the blogosphere. Use blogs to INSPIRE, but try, really try to make it personal. It will pay off. If you are doing a photo booth, what are props you could use say something about the two of you? Maybe a handle-bar moustache speaks volumes about the two of you, but maybe two hockey sticks might say even more.

Brides! Enjoy this special, magical time in your lives!!!! Enjoy this wonderful year where you wave your ring finger around and get constant manicures!!!! It’s special and FUN! Happy 2011! Looking forward to getting your questions this year!

Remember you can always email me at merrybrides@yahoo.com if you have any wedding planning dilemas.

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DIY Cozy Votive Yarn Candles

2011-01-04T16:29:00.001-05:00

Try these modern but cozy votive holders for a winter wedding. They look beautiful and sculputural when illuminated.

Cost: approximately 50 cents a piece.

Supplies:

simple glass votive holders

votive candles

yarn (we used cashmere which was just $2 for a roll at Michael’s)

double stick tape

scissors

1. Wrap double stick tape around votive holders. We used about 2 -3 rows per votive and spaced them out.

2. Stick the yarn vertically across the tape and then start wrapping it horizontally around the candle, leaving the long strand visible.

3. Keep wrapping yarn around the candle until it’s covered almost all the glass. The yarn shouldn’t be in rows, just wrap it haphazardly around the votive holder.

4. When you are done wrapping the yarn, take the end and tie it to the first piece. Trim the ends off and tuck the knot.

Tips/Mistakes:
Don’t make the rows of yarn too symmetrical or perfect it looks best when it’s a little messy!

♥ Recommended Online Sites ♥

Are you a DIY bride? Save big with American Bridal’s do-it-yourself must-haves, including favor boxes, personalized tags and ribbon, invitation kits and more.

DIY CHOCOLATE COVERED PRETZLES

2011-01-03T22:48:00.000-05:00

I love this project a lot. Probably too much. Chocolate covered pretzles are such yumminess, you can rest assured that your guests will definitely devour your hard work!

Materials ( from local grocer)

* 10 oz. bags of Pretzel Rods (plan to get about 20 per bag, which allows for broken/unusable ones)

* 12 oz. bag of Nestle semi-sweet chocolate chips or melting bark (1 bag will cover three-fourths of about 40 pretzels)

* 12 oz. bag of Nestle white-chocolate chips

* Shortening

* wax paper

* Optional: sugar crystals, chopped nuts, flaked coconut, or sprinkles can be substituted to coordinate with your affair

Materials (from craft store like Michael’s)

* Wilton brand pretzel bags (20 cellophane bags per package – each bag can hold 2 pretzels)

* Fine-tipped plastic bottle (like the hair-dye bottles)

* Ribbon

* Scrapbooking paper for favor tags or use ready-made tags (If you make your own tags)

* hole-punch

* paper-cutter

* scissors

Notes and Instructions

I first used Microsoft Publisher to design and personalize the favor tags. I cut out the tags in a simple rectangular shape and affixed them to a solid paper for a visual border. (I’m sure there are fancier tags that could be made or purchased, but I am more tech-savvy than scrapbook-savvy. So, use your strengths when creating your DIY projects and your personality will show through.) I double hole-punched the tag to feed through my ribbon. These I made in advance and set aside. I wanted to wait until the last minute to create my edible favors and knew time would be valuable that week.

To melt the chocolates, I use a TALL coffee cup as this accommodates the depth needed to cover most of the pretzel. Pour your chips into the mug along with a tablespoon of shortening and microwave for 30 seconds. Stir and continue to microwave in 30-second intervals until almost melted. (Be sure not to overheat as this will ruin the chocolate). I then put the mug in a pan of warm water to hold the chocolate temperature. The next step is to dunk your pretzel leaving just enough of a tip as an edible handle. If you are adding sprinkles, you will want to do this before the chocolate melts. If you want to drizzle white-chocolate as I did, go ahead and place your pretzel on wax paper to dry. Once all my pretzels were dunked, I melted my white-chocolate and poured into my drizzle bottle. Like a windshield wiper, move your bottle back and forth as you squeeze to make the drizzle lines. The more messy, the more gourmet they look.

Let pretzels dry overnight and place in your cellophane bags. Tie up the bags with your favor tags and wah la…your DIY favor javascript:void(0)becomes a yummy labor of love.

♥ If you don't have the resources to make your own favor tags you can purchase some cute Personalized tags online at The Knot.com

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How to Choose an Outdoor Wedding Tent Size - Size does matter

2011-01-03T12:57:00.002-05:00

By Ashlee Williams

When choosing the size of your tent, the standard guidelines are:

Dinner reception with dancing: 15 to 16 square feet per person

Reception with no dancing: 10 square feet per person

Stand up cocktail party: 6 square feet per person

Seating for a ceremony: 7 square feet per person; plus space for aisles and alter.

TIP: Ask for ten-foot high sides versus 8-foot-high side. This will literally raise the roof and open up your space.

One of my favorite ways to do a tent is with a clear ceiling, made out of clear vinyl that makes the sky and your surroundings part of your decore. Clear tents make a tent not feel as closed in, and are perfect for outdoor weddings that take place among beautiful foliage, sunsets, or natural backdrops

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What Are Your Wedding Flowers Saying About You?

2010-12-22T19:57:00.000-05:00

Picking flowers for your wedding can be an educational experience!

Below are some of the most popular flowers used in weddings, and what “messages” they can send.

Roses are a near-universal symbol of love, but they also come in a wide variety of colors that convey specific ideas, such as: white – purity or innocence; red – love or respect; pink – happiness or grace; peach – modesty; and yellow – joy or friendship.

Carnations symbolize devoted love, and like roses, certain colors have specific connotations: white – good luck; pink – a woman’s love; purple – whimsy; red – admiration.

Daisies symbolize loyalty and good cheer.

Irises symbolize wisdom, valor, or faith. Yellow irises signify passion.

Lily of the Valley symbolizes sweetness and humility.

Lilies symbolize honor and purity of heart. Calla lilies symbolize beauty.

Ferns symbolize magic or fascination.

Zinnias symbolize the memory of an absent friend.

Violets symbolize modesty or virtue.

Bells of Ireland symbolize good luck!

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♥ SkinCubed.com as seen in Vogue, New Beauty, Self and W magazines.

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5 Ideas For Creative and Unusual Wedding Cakes

2010-11-27T11:24:00.036-05:00

By Cori Russell

As the centerpiece of your reception, wedding cakes are a bride's opportunity to make a major style statement. But many brides don't particularly like the taste of wedding cake, and some simply prefer to serve something a little more distinctive for the dessert course. Looking for something different? Browse our ideas for a refreshing spin on the traditional wedding cake.

1. Break the Mold

Cupcakes and doughnuts are trendy alternatives to traditional wedding cakes, but good ol' Jell-O might be the most creative new option. When molded into cake form with a touch of class and ingredients like tropical fruit, champagne, and lychee nut, the family picnic favorite can be transformed into an elegant and refreshingly light treat perfect for a summer or outdoor wedding. Plus, it's bound to be an instant conversation starter. Love the idea? Present it to your caterer to recreate it.

2. Wedding Cakes Made of Cheese

Scattered plates with barely nibbled pieces of wedding cake are an all-too-familiar sight at receptions. If you want to serve a dessert your guests will actually eat, consider a wedding "cake" made of cheese. No, not the rich, loaded with sugar variety with graham cracker crust - literally a cake made of cheese stacked in tiers and decorated to look like a wedding cake. Adornments like foliage, grapes, berries, nuts, and flowers transform a creamy lancashire or unpasteurized cheddar into an elaborate wedding cake that can match your decor scheme.

The trend is taking off in Europe where cheese for dessert is prevalent. In its infancy in the United States, this is a chance for you to be truly on the cusp. Guests with a savory soft spot and those last holdovers from the Atkins revolution will be only too happy to forego the buttercream frosting and rolled fondant.

3. Blinged out Baked Goods

When it comes to wedding day bling, bejeweled brides have some competition. Now your cake can don jewelry too! That's right, the latest adornments to hit wedding cakes are hand-made Swarovski Crystal Cake Jewelry. Design a sparkilicious cake bedecked with crystal monograms, hearts, flowers or butterflies. Order a cake from your local bakery, then use the customizing tools available at Verydifferentcakes.com to design dazzling cake jewelry for it.

4. Flavorful Fountains

Chocolate fountains in lieu of wedding cakes have been done. So put a new spin on the chocolate fountain with a colorful, flowing display of fruit coulis, which is that powerfully tangy syrup made from raspberries, mangoes, or other fruits and often comes drizzled over something like a flourless chocolate cake. In its fountain form, dip brownies, shortbread, and other cakes and cookies for a sweet, fruity treat.

5. Cake Fake Out

If you like the look of iced tiers, but want something truly surprising, have rich, velvety gourmet cheesecakes stacked and decorated like a traditional wedding cake. Your guests will be none the wiser until it is time to slice up.

Need more cake ideas check out Martha Stewart's Wedding Cakes

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Merry Brides Twitters, Merry Brides Tumbles, Jabot Jewelry

Father/Daughter Dance Song Ideas

2010-11-21T08:17:00.002-05:00

Here are some non-cheesy songs you may want to consider for your dance with dad.

"Father & Daughter" by Paul Simon
"Daddy" by Beyoncé
"The Best Day" by Taylor Swift
"Daddy" by Kendall Payne
"What a Wonderful World" by Eva Cassidy
"Someone to Watch Over Me" by Amy Winehouse
"Daughters" by John Mayer
"Just the Way You Are" by Maggie Gyllenhaal
"Daughter" by Loudon Wainwright III
"Modern Girl" by Sleater-Kinney
"I Loved Her First" by Hearland
"All-American Girl" by Carrie Underwood
"Gracie" by Ben Folds
"How You've Grown" by 10,000 Maniacs

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How to Emboss Elegant Wedding Invitations/Stationery

2010-11-15T07:20:00.001-05:00

Do you want to make your ceremony programs more unique? Would you like to make all of your thank you notes? Are you having a small budgeted wedding and would like to make your wedding invitations, but still have them look elegant and expensive?

Embossing is a great way to do any of the above. What embossing does is use colors, stamps, and patterns to raise the surface of your invitations, programs, or thank you notes, making them look more professional.

Here is what you will need:

Embossing Heat Tool (approx. $35 at craft store).
Embossing Powder in theme colors (aprrox. $5/bottle)
Embossing Ink Pad (approx. $5)
Stamps ($5.00-$10.00 per stamp)

The stamp is the image that you are going to emboss onto your paper, so choose one or two that you feel fit in with the theme of your wedding or weddings in general. For example, I have a friend who used 2 hearts entwined on her invitations, program, and thank you notes. I have another friend who used a tulip design on her program alone. Both were very elegant and impressive.

The embossing powder will go a long way, so try to stick to one or two colors. Especially, if you want to keep your costs down and stick to your budget, don't choose too many colors or too many stamps.

The largest expense, of course, is the embossing heat tool. But, if you are planning on getting into scrapbooking, or embossing in the future, I think this cost will be worth it. (And, Michelle has written me to let me know that you can also use an iron. Just hold the iron close to the powder and it will melt. But, be very careful! Irons are a lot more bulky and difficult to maneuver - and can get quite hot!)

So, how to emboss? It is so easy! Just stamp the ink pad, then the paper. Then, sprinkle some powder onto the stamped area. Make sure to tap off extra powder (You can save the powder by tapping it into the middle of a folded piece of paper to be funneled back into the container) Next, using the heat tool, apply heat to the stamped area for a few seconds until you see the powder melt into your stamped image. Voila! You have embossed!

You can continue doing this with different colors or stamps. It is a lot of fun, so easy, and extremely cost-effective when you compare to buying your wedding invitations, thank you notes, or ceremony programs from a printer for a small wedding.

As always, have fun with it, be creative, and experiment with how you want it to look! And, good luck to you in all your plans!

**Recommended Product Spotlight**

Cute Intial and Heart; heart embosser at MyJean M.com

Fun Wedding Ceremony Program idea

2010-11-12T07:17:00.000-05:00

I just saw this super clever ceremony program idea. The couple's wedding ceremony was held in a lovely grassy clearing and as guests arrived, they enjoyed sodas and fresh-baked cookies. The best part: The treats were served in a paper bags printed with the ceremony details—genius! I browsed around online and found similar treat bags available in bulk from Paper Mart; configure your inkjet printer and try printing them from home.

For more great advice follow us on For more great advice please follow us on Merry Brides Twitters

Interfaith Marriage - How to Plan an Interfaith Wedding Ceremony

2010-11-10T07:07:00.002-05:00

By Cori Locklin

Let’s face it – the world just isn’t as big as it used to be. As a testament to the earth’s seemingly shrinking waistline, more and more young men and women are finding true love outside their faith – and making it work. Yet no matter how progressive you and your families may be, the peaceful merging of two religions can prove an ambitious undertaking. Take a deep breath, remind yourself that love is the end goal, and get ready to celebrate a marriage made in heaven, er, make that two heavens.

Interfaith wedding ceremonies pose a few planning challenges. Here is some advice to get you started:

Do Some Soul Searching - If you’ve been neglecting your spiritual side, it’s time to get reacquainted. Assess your beliefs and the role you see them playing in your life. How important to you is it that your wedding ceremony reflects your religious background? How willing are you to compromise for your fiancé’s beliefs or family? Know your personal stance on faith and religion, so you can speak candidly with your fiancé and your families and make decisions accordingly.

Talk it Over - After you’ve come to terms with your own spirituality, you and your fiancé need to have an honest discussion about religion. Although you should have broached the topic at some point during your relationship, now a wedding ceremony and marriage loom, adding a sense of urgency. During your internal reflection, you may have discovered your own views altering a bit, and he may feel the same. Discuss together your values, and identify what traditions are most meaningful for each of you to incorporate into your wedding ceremony and marriage.

Invite the Families - Combining two sets of traditions while keeping the peace with both families can be tricky. Invite both sides to listen to your ideas and contribute their expectations for your wedding day. You’d be surprised how an honest group discussion can bring about solutions once deemed elusive. As the happy couple, you and your fiancé should be prepared to discuss openly your choices, but you should also be receptive to their viewpoints. Be honest, open and supportive, and make sure that your ceremony plans are agreeable (or at least livable) for everyone.

Get the Right Officiant(s) - While many officiants do not perform interfaith weddings – or only do so with restrictions – just as many specialize in interfaith wedding ceremonies. If either of you has a relationship with the clergy at your respective place of worship, consult with that him or her first. Even if your clergy is unable to perform the service, he or she should be able to evaluate your situation with an open mind and make suggestions and recommendations. Many religious and interfaith organizations maintain lists of clergy who will officiate at interfaith ceremonies. You will also find a valuable resource in your local newspaper’s wedding announcements. Search for the names of officiants who have conducted interfaith ceremonies.

Get Counseled - Counseling sessions, often recommended before a wedding regardless of the couple’s religion, offer a good opportunity for a bride and groom to not only learn about the other's faith, but also to consider ways to merge traditions or celebrations during the ceremony. Since religion won’t disappear after your wedding day, counseling sessions also offer insight to other situations that may arise in your marriage, including raising children.

Plan a Fusion Ceremony - Consult your officiant(s) and families for advice in designing a ceremony that incorporates both faiths and cultures. Determine which customs are personally significant, and select rituals and readings together. Continue this blending of cultures into the reception, and design a menu of personalized fusion cuisine – think egg rolls with a side of Spanakopita.

Reassure the Family - As your wedding plans unfold, remember to pause from time to time and check in with your families, especially if the news of an interfaith wedding was an initial shock for either side. Continue to keep them involved and informed throughout the planning process. Spend quality time together, and if logistics allow, plan some group get-togethers.

Reassure Yourselves - Along those lines – don’t forget to reassure each other along the way, as uncertainty can creep in with potential roadblocks and planning challenges. Don’t stress that you’re losing your religion, because your not. Remember to always keep the focus on the marriage of two people in love, and rejoice that you now have two great traditions from which to draw your spiritual inspiration. Delight in a spiritually rich life and future to come!

RECOMMENDED READINGS

Your Interfaith Wedding: A Guide to Blending Faiths, Cultures, and Personal Values into One Beautiful Wedding Ceremony

Joining Hands and Hearts: Interfaith, Intercultural Wedding Celebrations--A Practical Guide for Couples

For a complete guide to creating an elegant and memorable wedding celebration, visit Elegala.com, your ultimate wedding planning resource. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cori_Locklin

WEDDING BANDS: FOR THE GROOM

2010-11-10T06:43:00.001-05:00

Guys play tough, and their rings should too. Eighteen-karat gold, platinum (this one wins nine times out of 10) and titanium (if there ever was an indestructible metal, this is it!) are all durable metals that won't wimp out on him. Of course, if your man works construction, for example, common sense suggests he leave his ring at home.

Comfort is key

A wedding ring may be the only piece of jewelry some men wear, so the less obtrusive it is, the less he'll fuss over it. Ergonomic bands with rounded edges and surfaces are the most comfortable and agreeable styles.

Back to basics

When choosing a wedding ring, many guys go the safe route. This is why the single band is still the most popular style. (A matte finish is too—just beware: It shows scratches more easily and prominently than its shiny counterparts.) Men tend to stretch their style muscle by adding a small diamond—or, depending on the design, several—or by exploring different metal textures and finishes.

The bigger the better?

If trends are any indication, then yes! More and more men are opting for wider bands. Just keep in mind that size does matter: The ring should be proportionate to his body size—for example, a brawnier man would better carry off a wide band than would a guy with a lanky build.

Diamonds in the rough

Bedazzled bands are quickly becoming a guy's best friend—and there's nothing sissified about them. Diamonds that lie flush in the band (as in., channel or gypsy designs) are the most fashionable and the most securely set. And we're not just talking about white diamonds: Black and dark sapphire diamonds are a hot trend, offering a look that's still masculine and suitable for everyday wear.

Textured touch

Special metal treatments give simple bands stylish flair. Hammered metal is an increasingly sought-after look, and embellishments like filigree and etched or engraved patterns—even graphic motives (think Celtic, zodiac or sports—are another way to dress up a band and showcase individual style.

Trendy titanium

This tough guy is quickly catching the eye of many a groom-to-be—and surprisingly it's the metal's "cool" factor (think power tools and Lamborghini rims) that's most responsible for its appeal. Its extreme durability is just a bonus. Titanium's matte finish is also attractive to men who are unaccustomed to wearing jewelry.

Made to match

Complementary his-and-hers wedding rings are a sweet tradition many couples embrace. While the widths may vary, the bands often share the same metal and finish.

What's his style?

Is he a suit-and-tie office guy? Or does he spend much of his time in the great outdoors or playing sports? If it's the latter, then a ring decked with diamonds is probably too dressy a look for his jeans-and-tees wardrobe.

Get him involved

He'll be the one wearing this ring, so encourage him to speak up about his likes and dislikes when it's time to shop. It's in everyone's best interest for the ring to reflect his tastes—after all, you want to see it on his finger!

Get with the band

Unlike width, which can overwhelm a smaller hand, there's really no right or wrong ring shape. He'll want to try on several styles to determine which one is most comfortable. Here are some basic shapes, named after the cross-section view of the bands.

* Round: curved on the inside and outside

* D-shaped: curved on the outside and flat on the inside

* Flat: flat on the inside and outside

* Court-shaped: softly round on the outside and fully round on the inside

* Easy-fit: flat on the outside and round on the inside

Recommended Wedding Band Sites

World Of Jewels Wedding Bands

Allurez.com Great Discounts on Wedding Bands

* Please visit us on Merry Brides Twitter for more great wedding tips and ideas.

How Not to Propose

2010-11-05T11:51:00.000-04:00

The largest collection of Gemstone Engagement Rings in the world.

One thing to keep high in your mind when planning a proposal is that it will be remembered for the rest of your life, and you want it to be a story you can tell your grandchildren. You want it to be from the heart.

Read on (and share these with your significant other to see if they take the hint) for some tips on how not to propose:

1. Bringing family or friends along to watch.

Grandma may want to see the proposal in person, but let her wait and you can re-enact it at the engagement party if you have to. Proposing at a nice restaurant in front of strangers is fine, and this should be a private, intimate moment when relatives, or potentially future relatives, should be far away so their presence doesn’t pressure anyone.

2. Online.

This includes texting (Will u mry me?), Twitter, Facebook, YouTube or any other electronic means that will be invented in the future. Nothing says impersonal like an email.

3. Hiding The Ring In Food.

It sounds fun to hide an engagement ring in a Jell-O shot, flan or any other edible dessert at your romantic dinner, but she might accidentally swallow it. That would put a harsh end to the night. Or the wait staff might lose the ring when giving it to a prep cook to put in the pudding, or it could get in someone else’s dessert.

4. Asking On Her Birthday, Christmas, Valentine’s Day…

…or some other big holiday where she’ll expect a gift. Turn your proposal date into a personal holiday for the two of you if you want to, but don’t take her birthday and turn it into another major event.

Recommended Sites for Engagement rings

Shop for Engagement Rings at Allurez.com

Anagra.com The best collection of Gemstone Engagement Rings!

Please be sure to visit our sister sites for more great wedding advice Fun Weddings
and Weddings By Ashlee

How to Have Perfect Eyebrows - Eyebrow Threading Technique

2010-11-03T07:43:00.000-04:00

If you are planning on having your eyebrows shaped before your wedding,it's best to avoid getting them waxed. Waxing doesn't just remove the hair, but actually removes a majority of dead skin cells from your epidermis, the top layer of skin to which the make-up foundation used on your wedding day must stick. It takes up to one week to fully rejuvenate your cells and by that time you will already have had hair re-growth.

Instead, try a technique called "threading". It's far gentler on your skin than waxing and creates very clean and professional results. There are ample local Indian salons and spas that specialize in this style of hair removal and the cost is surprisingly inexpensive at usually no more than $10 - $15 for combined Hair and Lip treatments. Try it out a couple of months before the wedding to see how you like it and then schedule an appointment to have the wedding threading done two -three days before the big event.

For more great wedding advice please visit our sister sites

Fun Weddings

Merry Brides

150 Wedding Photography Poses-Checklist for your Photographer

2010-11-02T07:13:00.002-04:00

A list is a great way to let the photographer know the pictures you want the MOST. Here's a list of over 150 wedding poses which may work for you. Print a copy of this list and take it with you when you meet with your photographer.

BEFORE the WEDDING

__ Bride arriving at church

__ Groom and Best Man arriving at church

__ Bride alone in mirror

__ Mother adjusting Bride's veil

__ Bride pinning boutonniere on Dads lapel

__ Bride pinning corsage on Mother

__ Bride alone looking out window

__ Groom alone (full length)

__ Groom alone (3/4 length)

__ Groom alone (head and shoulders)

__ Groom profile

__ Groom profile with hand to chin

__ Bride looking at Groom's ring

__ Groom looking at Bride's ring

__ Bride and Mother

__ Bride in foreground with Father
__ Father and Mother looking at bride from background

__ Groom and Mother

__ Groom in foreground with Mother
__ Mother and Father looking at groom from background.

__ Father kissing Bride on forehead (or cheek)

__ Father dropping penny in Bride's shoe

__ Bride and Father

__ Groom and Father

__ Groom pinning boutonniere on Dads lapel

__ Groom pinning corsage on Mother

__ Mother pinning boutonniere on Groom

__ Bride, Mother and Father

__ Groom, Mother and Father

__ Bride and Flower girl (looking at each other)

__ Bride and Flower girl (looking at camera)

__ Flower girl admiring Bride's gown

__ Groom and Ring bearer

__ Bride giving bouquets to Bridesmaids

__ Bride and Maid (or Matron) of Honor full length

__ Bride and Maid/or Matron of Honor head & shoulders

__ Groom and Best Man

__ Best Man showing Groom watch

__ Best Man wiping Groom's forehead with handkerchief

__ Bride and Bridesmaids

__ Groom and Groomsmen

__ Groomsmen dragging Groom into church

__ Bride and Groomsmen

__ Groom and Bridesmaids

__ Individual portrait of each Bridesmaid

__ Individual portrait of each Groomsman

__ Mother putting Garter on Bride

__ Maid of Honor putting Garter on Bride

__ Guest book and Attendant

__ Guest signing guest book

THE CEREMONY

__ Ushers seating Groom's Grandparents

__ Ushers seating Bride's Grandparents

__ Usher seating Mother of Bride

__ Usher seating Mother and Father of Groom

__ Soloist and musician(s)

__ Bride, Father, and attendants lined up ready to enter Sanctuary

__ Groom and Family (Mom, Dad, Bro., Sis.)

__ Bride and Family (Mom, Dad, Brother, Sister)

__ Groom with Brothers and Sisters

__ Flower girl & Ring bearer coming down aisle

__ Individual Bridesmaids coming down aisle

__ Bride with Brothers and Sisters

__ Bride and Father coming down aisle (front view)

__ Bride and Father coming down aisle (back view showing full train)

__ Time exposure from back of church during ceremony

__ Bride and Groom lighting unity candle

__ First Kiss as Husband and Wife!

__ Bride and Groom with flower girl and ring bearer

__ Bride and Groom taking Communion

__ Bride and Groom returning from Altar

__ Reception (receiving) line (with

__ Exterior view of Church

FORMAL POSES

__ Bride posed alone (front view-full length)

__ Bride posed alone (back view-full length)

__ Bride posed alone (front view-3/4 length)

__ Bride posed alone (back view-3/4 length)

__ Bride posed alone (head & shoulders)

__ Bridal profile

__ Bride with Grandparents

__ Bride and Groom together looking at camera (full length)

__ Bride and Groom together looking off camera (full length)

__ Bride and Groom facing each other, holding hands (full length)

__ Bride and Groom together (3/4 length)

__ Bride and Groom together looking at camera (head and shoulders)

__ Bride and Groom together looking off camera (head and shoulders)

__ Bride (w/back to camera) facing Groom (both looking off camera - head and shoulders)

__ Groom with Grandparents

__ Bride and Groom with Bride's Parents

__ Bride and Groom with Bride's Grandparents

__ Bride's Grandparents (together)

__ Bride's Grandmother

__ Bride's Grandfather

__ Bride and Groom with Groom's Parents

__ Bride and Groom with Groom's Grandparents

__ Groom's Grandparents (together)

__ Groom's Grandmother

__ Groom's Grandfather

__ Bride and Groom silhouetted against stained glass window

__ Bride and Groom with preacher

__ Candid of Clergymen congratulating couple

__ Bride with attendants looking at ring

__ Time exposure of Bride and Groom looking at rings with candles in foreground

__ Time exposure of Bride and Groom kissing with candles in foreground

__ Bride and Groom kissing with wedding party peeking from background

__ Bride and Groom with wedding party

__ Bride and Groom leaving church (running through rice, etc.)

RECEPTION AND OTHER PHOTOGRAPHS

__ Bride's Cake alone

__ Bride and Groom cutting Bride's cake

__ Photograph(s) of Bridal table setting

__ Bride feeding Bride's cake to Groom

__ Groom feeding Bride's cake to Bride

__ Groom's Cake alone

__ Bride and Groom posed on front steps of Church

__ Entire wedding party posed on front steps of Church

__ Bride and Groom cutting Groom's cake

__ Bride feeding Groom's cake to Groom

__ Witnesses (Best man, Maid of Honor) signing Marriage license.

__ Groom feeding Groom's cake to Bride

__ Bride and Groom at dinner table

__ Wedding party at dinner table

__ Punch and cake servers

__ Bride and Father dancing

__ Bride and Groom with wine glasses

__ Best man toasting Bride and Groom

__ Close-up of hands, rings

__ Close-up of hands, rings, napkin

__ Close-up of hands, rings, flowers

__ Gift table alone

__ Gift table with couple

__ Bride and Groom opening gifts

__ Groom removing garter

__ Groom throwing garter (posed, looking at camera)

__ Groomsmen and other men catching garter

__ Bride throwing bouquet (posed, looking at camera)

__ Girls catching bouquet

__ Spotlight of the invitation and bouquet

__ Bride and Groom dancing together

__ Groom dancing with his Mother

__ Groom dancing with Brides Mother

__ Bride dancing with her Father

__ Bride dancing with Grooms Father

__ Photograph of the Disk Jockey or Band

__ Candid photos of any special friends of Bride and Groom

__ Candid photos of certain (or all) tables at reception

__ Outdoor, romantic poses of Bride and Groom (full length, close-up, etc.)

__ Wedding Party/Friends Decorating Bride and Groom's Car

__ Decorated car ready to leave

__ Bride with Groom looking on from background

__ Groom with Bride looking on from background

__ Candid of soloist

__ Candid of organist

__ Bride with friends

__ Groom with friends

__ Parents hugging/kissing couple good-bye

__ Bride and Groom with car decorated (exterior view)

__ Groom carrying Bride in arms (with decorated car in background)

__ Groom holding car door open for Bride

__ Bride and Groom in car ready to leave

__ Bride and Groom in car leaving Church or Reception

__ Bride and Groom looking out rear window of car

__ Any Large Family Groups

__ Bride's Father with pockets turned inside out

Recommended Sites:

Create your own website at Wedding Window. This is a great way to keep your guests informed. Will save you stress too!

Please visit our sister sites for more great advice: Fun Weddings, Merry Brides.
We also twitter!! Merry Brides on Twitter

Wedding Day Skin Beauty Tips

2010-10-30T09:53:00.001-04:00

Don't hide behind a veil your entire wedding day. Learn the way to healthy, vibrant skin.

(MS) - You bought the gown, scheduled the hairstylist, and picked out the bridal accessories. But are you forgetting about one of the most important parts of looking beautiful on your wedding day: your face?

Every bride wants to shine on her wedding day, but she probably doesn't want her skin to shine, too. Problems like oily, dry, or irritated skin plague a good portion of the population. But on your wedding day you don't want skin inconveniences to ruin your festivities.

"One of the best ways to put your best face forward is to know your skin type, what causes you to breakout, and to avoid any products or foods that may contribute to the problem - at least until the last wedding photo has been snapped," says Brooke Tilson, a Toronto makeup artist. If you don't know the answers to these questions, you may want to visit a dermatologist a few months before the wedding to talk about your concerns and to get recommendations for proper skin care.

In addition to professional skin advice, here are some other ways to maximize your beauty potential come your wedding day.

Cleansing and Toning

Healthy skin starts with clean skin. Be sure to remove makeup every night and wash your face with a mild cleanser appropriate for your skin type twice daily. Toners can refresh the skin, dry up any extra oil on the surface and clean out pores. Now is not the time to experiment with the latest and greatest products out there. You don't want to risk irritation to your skin before your wedding day.

Be Gentle

When cleansing, drying, or even applying makeup, treat your skin with a soft hand. Blot gently with cotton balls or swabs, and avoid tugging or rubbing the skin. Not only can this cause redness or irritation, it may also contribute to long-term wrinkling.

Not So 'Sun'sational

Many brides-to-be believe that suntanning will cure many of their skin ailments. This isn't the case. While sunbathing may temporarily alleviate acne or breakouts, it could actually compound the problem and make outbreaks worse over time. Other ladies think that tanned skin will make them look better against their white bridal gown. However, on your wedding day you should look like the best version of you, not a complete stranger. Fair-skinned individuals may look out of place with a deep tan. Err on the side of moderate whenever contemplating modifying your skin tone, as it will affect makeup choices and other things as well. And avoid tanning booths or sitting out in the sun. If you must be tan, look for artificial spray tans or bronzers that create natural-looking color.

Makeup

Conservative, natural-looking makeup should also be the rule. The photographs you take on your wedding day will be a testament to the era and moments you shared. But you don't want to look dated when you reminisce years later. Choose muted shades on eyes, lips and cheeks that enhance, rather than cover up your beauty. Select makeup that is smudge- and waterproof so it will stand up to tears of joy and kisses from well-wishers. Pressed or loose powder can also be your best friend. It will come in handy when you have to touch up spots on your face or combat shine.

* Recommended Online Sites *

DermaStore Great discounts (I love this site!)
Murad Acne Skin Care

Please be sure to visit us on Merry Brides Twitter for great wedding tips!

Top 5 “Green” Wedding Tips

2010-10-29T10:20:00.000-04:00

As we are all concerned for the environment, one of the biggest trends in wedding planning today is having a “green” wedding. Bridal Guide magazine’s Editor-in-Chief Diane Forden offers us these fabulous green wedding tips.

1. Save a tree, cordially

Start with your invitations. Find a stationer who offers uncoated, recycled or recyclable paper. Many stores sell beautiful papers made from cotton fibers (recovered from garment factories) or 100% recycled handmade cards embedded with flower seeds.

2. Eat, drink and be merry

Serve guests an organic feast of foods produced without chemical fertilizers, antibiotics or pesticides, and top it off with organic drinks. During cocktail hour, for example, try Square One vodka and Juniper Green gin, both fermented without additives.

3. Let your wedding bloom

Brides and their florists should choose eco-certified flowers. Organic blooms are often requested by season, such as tulips for spring weddings and sunflowers for nuptials in autumn.

4. Give a little back

Provide your guests with party favors they will enjoy and can reuse. Consider fair-trade tea, coffee or chocolates, tree seeds or saplings or re-usable totes. Natural soaps and body lotions are also a favorite.

Charitable registries are also a great way to give back. Companies like Target and JCPenney will donate a percentage of each gift purchased off the couple’s registry to a charity of their choice. Or forego gifts all together and suggest that guests contribute money directly to a good cause. Sites like the IDoFoundation.org provide great charitable wedding ideas and resources.

5. Getaway in green

Going green doesn’t need to end with the wedding day. You can be eco-conscious on your honeymoon by choosing a hotel dedicated to preserving and enhancing its environment. Green hotels, for example, use low wattage bulbs, soap dispensers instead of bars and only change towels and sheets daily if the guest so requests it.

Recommended Book For Planning Your Green Wedding

Green Wedding: Planning Your Eco-Friendly Celebration

* Please be sure to check out our sister site for more great wedding ideas Fun Weddings

7 Ways to Save on Wedding Cakes

2010-10-28T13:40:00.000-04:00

By: Cori Russell

Your wedding cake...the ultimate wedding reception centerpiece. It should be eye-catching and fabulous. (tasty too!) And just like every other aspect of your wedding day - costs can creep skyward. But don't let a tight budget stand between you and the ultimate wedding cake. Size and design are the two main determinants in wedding cake cost. Creative brides can play with these elements to create a confection that is super-fab....and kind to your catering tab. Have your cake (and eat it too) with these budget saving tips:

Cut that Guest List -
As with all cost-per-person aspects of your wedding, narrowing down your guest list will result in significant wedding cake savings. Less mouths to feed = less slices; you get the idea. And any cake cutting fee, typically charged on a per slice bases as well, will also be reduced.

Hip to be Square -
A square cake yields more slices than one that is round with the same dimensions. So go square - and make a deliciously modern statement!

Go Natural -
Hand-constructed gum paste or sugar paste flowers can quickly rack up your wedding cake cost. Substitute these costly adornments with fresh fruits and flowers - an inexpensive option that is equally stunning.

Keep It Simple -
While intricate, over-the-top cakes evoke the ultimate in wedding day opulence, today's shift towards modern minimalism can foray into the world of cake design. The result is always chic - never a budget breaker. Lose the ornate adornments and infinite skyward-stretching tiers, and opt for a clean design with an impeccably smooth surface. Add simple details such as a Swiss dot pattern or wide ribbon around the base. Stick to one flavor, as multiple flavors will increase the bottom line.

One Stop Shopping -
If your wedding reception facility offers an onsite caterer, employ their services for your confection as well, and save on delivery and service fees. You will also ward off chances for a transportation mishap - a headache you surely want to avoid on the big day! Many reception sites offer a wedding cake as part of their package deal, so be sure to inquire when scouting reception sites.

"Dummy Cakes" -
Fancy a towering and dramatic wedding cake but don't want to shell out the extra cash? Instead of paying for extra layers, ask your baker to create faux layers consisting of iced Styrofoam. Trust us - your guests will never be the wiser; it will be our little secret.

Outside the Proverbial Cake Pan -
Of-the-moment brides are breaking with tradition and forgoing the cake all together - presenting instead pies or pastries on tiered platters as the centerpieces of their wedding receptions. Depending on your selection, this can be an uber-chic way to save. Dare we say it, even doughnuts are in vogue - having been spotted at some of the poshest black tie events!

* Recommended Books for Great Cake Ideas

Martha Stewart's Wedding Cakes

Wedding Cakes You Can Make: Designing the Perfect Wedding Cake

Cakes for Romantic Occasions

Cori Russell is editor for Elegala.com and Gala Weddings Magazine. Elegala.com is a complete Weddings and Wedding Planning resource with a national directory of wedding venues and services, how-to guides, photo galleries, checklists, and expert advice to walk brides through every step of the wedding planning process. Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - 7 Ways to Save on Wedding Cakes

Wedding Catering Serving Styles Guide - Buffet, Seated Dinner, or Finger Food Reception

2010-10-27T08:34:00.011-04:00

By: Cori Russell

Before you begin choosing between filet and chicken, consider how you´d like to serve them. The most common options include seated meal, buffet and passed-tray (appetizer) reception. To help you decide, we´ve compiled all you need to know about these serving styles.

Things to Consider:

The time of day during which your event takes place -
If your reception will be held during brunch or cocktail hours, a 5 course meal may not be necessary. If your reception will occur during dinner hour, you should serve more than just appetizers.

The formality of your event -
While it´s perfectly acceptable to have a buffet at even the most formal of events, tradition still tends to dictate that a sit-down meal is the most formal. If you envision guests dressed in white tie, sipping French champagne and serenaded by a full orchestra, a seated meal may be the way to go.

Your guests -
Always take into account the nature of your guest list. Elders or more traditional guests may feel more comfortable at a seated dinner, while younger guests may yawn at the idea of being forced to sit still for a few hours. Also remember that an extremely large guest list may not be conducive to a buffet, as hungry guests may be forced to wait in line for a turn at the table.

Personal preference -
That said, it´s your wedding. There really are no rules these days, so if you have your heart set on a particular serving style - go for it!

Serving Styles - An Overview:

Seated Meal -
Overview: At a seated meal, guests are seated and served by a waitstaff at tables pre-assigned by you. This style is the most traditional and typically the most formal. The types of sit-down services include: 1. plated service - where the full meal is pre-arranged on individual plates before served to guests; 2. Russian service - where wait staff serve courses from platters onto plates already on the table; 3. French service - where two waiters serve guests from the platter, one holding the platter and the other serving.

Buffet -
Overview: At a buffet, guests select their food from either one long table or stations strategically placed throughout the room. (think pasta station, seafood station, Chinese wok station) An advantage is that you can serve a varied menu from which guests can choose what they like. Having a buffet-style meal does not mean that you have to sacrifice sophistication. A buffet can be formal when served by stylish wait-staff or more relaxed with self-serve stations.

Finger Food Reception -
Overview: At this style of reception, there is no full meal. Instead waiters circulate the room, offering trays of hors d´oeuvres to standing guests. This style of service is ideal for a cocktail reception, which is often a shorter duration than a full reception.

*Recommended Reading --Great menu ideas!!!!

Easy Parties and Wedding Celebrations: Tablescapes, Menus, Recipes

Cori Russell is editor for Elegala.com and Gala Weddings Magazine. Elegala.com is a complete Weddings, Wedding Planning resource with a national directory of wedding venues and services, how-to guides, photogalleries, checklists, and expert advice to walk brides through every step of the wedding planning process.

**Please be sure to check out our sister site for more great wedding advice: Fun Weddings

10 Tips to Avoid Wedding Day Stress

2010-10-26T14:18:00.006-04:00

It’s easy to overlook the little things. Planning ahead of time is the only way to keep wedding stress at bay. Don’t let months of planning come undone by not being prepared. Combat potential disasters – and that annoying wedding stress – with these ten essential wedding day tips, and have the time of your life!

#1 – Have an emergency kit on hand: A bride without her trusty emergency kit is a meltdown waiting to happen. Before the wedding day, put together a little kit of must-haves in case something should go wrong. Ideally, you should have extra make-up, safety pins, breath spray, nail polish for snags, hairspray, a comb, and anything else you deem appropriate to combat wedding stress. If a situation does arise, you’ll be thankful you had these things with you.

#2 – Bring comfortable shoes to change in to: Please don’t maintain the illusion that you can wear those fabulous designer heels all night long. They will begin to hurt your feet and impede your ability to hob-knob with your friends. Pack some cute flats (that you’ve previously broken in) or some simple white sandals so you can keep dancing all night long!

#3 – Put someone in charge of the vendors: Entrust a friend or family member to keep track of vendors, such as the DJ/band, caterers, florists, facility manager, wait staff, and photography team. Let him or her be the point person if the vendor has a question, if something has changed, or there is an issue. Trust me – this will reduce much of the wedding stress that will occur throughout the day.

#4 – Don’t forget to eat before and during the wedding: Number four on this list of wedding day tips is incredibly important. Sounds impossible, but brides do forget to eat with all that’s going on. One of the best wedding day tips I can offer is to start the day out with a healthy breakfast that will keep you going until your afternoon or evening meal is served. The last thing that you want to do is add to your wedding stress and pass out in front of your guests or experience hunger pangs all day. Rely on one of your bridesmaids to fix a plate for you or do it yourself while you converse with guests waiting in line and then actually sit down and eat it. You picked the menu. Don’t you deserve to enjoy it?

#5 – Provide your guests with an accurate map and directions: Everyone will tell you this is one of the best wedding tips you could get! The last thing you want to deal with is guests calling you or your friends asking for directions because yours aren’t quite clear. Talk about wedding stress! Make sure you provide turn-by-turn navigation (especially helpful for those out-of-towners) as well as a detailed map of your venues with each surrounding street clearly listed and identifiable.

#6 – Make sure your bridal party knows to come early: Every photographer’s nightmare – and a major wedding stress inducer – is a scattered, mismanaged bridal party. Make sure to coordinate with your bridesmaids and fiancé’s groomsmen beforehand. If pictures are to be taken before the ceremony, everyone needs to show up with ample time to allow for this. If you are dressing at the church or venue and require the assistance of your bridesmaids, set the time back appropriately.

#7 – Set up something special for your guests in the facilities’ bathrooms: A basket of toiletries is a clever way to show your creativity at your wedding. Usually, the bathrooms get overwhelmed and guests may need something to get them through the rest of the night. One of the most helpful wedding day tips is to stock a basket for your guests – perhaps decorated with ribbons in your wedding colors – with floss, tampons (for the ladies), gum, lotion, sanitizer, mouthwash, and safety pins for each of the men’s and women’s restrooms.

#8 – Keep the kids in mind: Everyone is having a good time, but what are the kids up to? If you choose to have children at your wedding, so be it. They’ll need a little entertainment though if you want to keep wedding stress at bay. One of my favorite wedding day tips is to serve fun finger foods like chicken nuggets, grilled cheese, French fries, and carrot sticks to get them to eat and keep them happy. A great idea is to have all the children at a centrally located children’s table – adorn the table with activity and coloring books, crayons, puzzles, and lots of drawing paper to keep them occupied. If you and your fiance decide not to have children at your wedding, however, make sure that all parents know this well in advance so that they can find a babysitter.

#9 – Hand the rings off to someone responsible: Have one of the attendants in your bridal party hang on to the rings before the ceremony. Instruct her to wait until right before the party is sent down the aisle to give the ring bearer and flower girl the rings so that they don’t get lost in the day’s hustle and bustle.

#10 – Create a menu for guests to peruse: Number 10 on this list of wedding day tips isn’t hard to do, but gives your guests an idea of what kind of food will be served. For a sit-down dinner, this is imperative, of course, as there will be multiple options to choose from. Even if you’re having a large buffet meal where guests help themselves, place a menu on each table so that anticipation can build. Sometimes, without a menu, your guests might have even overlooked a food station with their favorite dish!

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Ready For Marriage? 11 Questions to Ask Yourself Before the Wedding Read more: http://www.articlesbase.com/marriage-articles/ready-for-marriage-11-qu

2010-10-26T13:31:00.005-04:00

By Cori Russell

A newly engaged woman certainly has a lot on her wedding planning checklist: Floral schemes? Check. Fabric swatches? Check. Vegan menu options? Uh..check. Emotionally prepared for wedding and marriage?..........Uh, am I?

Engagement and marriage is one of the most significant psychological transitions in our lives, packed with an assortment of tangled feelings. An engaged woman must face these internal details if she ever hopes to arrive at the altar psychologically prepared to say "I Do." But instead, the "essential" details of planning a wedding monopolize the thoughts of even the most consciously aware brides. So let's tear ourselves away from the 5th revision of the seating chart for a moment to ponder just what it means to get married and emotionally prepare for a wedding. Bring your focus back to the real you, and ask yourself these introspective questions before the big day.

To Prepare Emotionally for Your Wedding Day - Ask Yourself:

1. How do you plan to cope with the added stress that comes with planning a wedding?

Your to-list doubles the moment he pops the question, so some added stress is to be expected. Take a deep breath, and mentally prepare for the whirlwind that's to ensue. As you do this, tell yourself that a little added stress is ok - but losing sight of what's really important is not.

2. Who will be in your wedding party?

Choosing the women who will surround you on your wedding day is one of the most important wedding-related decisions you will make. This milestone marks a profound personal transformation, and the women by your side on your wedding day should calm and sooth.

3. How can your loved ones best support you throughout your engagement and on your wedding day?

What type or level of support will you rely on during this transitional phase? Will you need help with wedding planning details, or are you looking more for support on an emotional level. After you have explored your wishes, you should share them with those around you.

4. What are you happiest about when you think of your wedding day?

How can you make the most of this excitement and revel in it?

5. What is your biggest fear when you think of your wedding day?

How do you plan to cope with any wedding day jitters or potential mishaps?

6. How do you want to feel on your wedding day?

In such an overly stimulating environment, many brides report having to be perpetually "on" during their wedding, instead of being themselves in the moment. What are your expectations for how you will feel as a bride? How will you deal if the reality differs from these expectations?

Now Dig Deeper - To Prepare for Marriage - Ask Yourself:

7. Why are you getting married?

It's natural to get swept away in the excitement of getting engaged. But before hopping on the wedding planning fast train, take some time for a gut check and evaluate the reasons behind your engagement. Are you really in love with your fiancé? Marriage for any reason other than love - such as a ticking biological clock, financial security, family appeasement, or to avoid being the last lone single in your social circle - is a bad idea.

8. Do you stand to lose more than you gain?

Look at the cost of your current relationship and potential marriage. If you have to sever ties with friends and family or give up a flourishing career, for example, the cost is too high. Once the idea of being married wears off, reality - and resentment - will set in, and your frustration will grow like a cancer to your marriage.

9. How do you see your personal relationships changing after marriage?

Be prepared for marriage to impact the key relationships in your life. It's natural for your relationship with your parents, your friends and your fiancé to evolve with your engagement and throughout your marriage. Determine your expectations, and discuss them with others.

10. How do you see your role as a wife?

Your identity will inevitably change after you get married. How will you transition from the role of girlfriend to the role of wife? How do you see yourself fulfilling your new role(s) as a wife? a professional? a mother?

11. How do you feel about changing/keeping your last name?

Many engaged women struggle with the notion of the impending name change. How do you really feel? If you take his name, what are the implications for your identity? If you decide to keep your maiden name - or some combination of both - what are the potential ramifications? If you're grappling with this issue, our advice on whether to take his last name or keep your maiden name may help you make a decision.

Still not completely sure if you and your fiance are meant to be? Take this marriage compatibility test to find out.

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Please be sure to check out our sister sites for more great wedding advice. Fun Weddings and Merry Brides

Cash Bars at Weddings: Tacky or Thrifty?

2010-10-26T12:57:00.003-04:00

By: Cori Russell

Savvy couples are looking for any way to cut wedding costs - and rightfully so. Shelling out nearly $30,000 to host a party in these tough economic times just feels frivolous and wasteful. But sorry brides and grooms, a cash bar is never an acceptable money-saving solution. Think about it this way: would you ever charge your pals three dollars every time they grabbed another beer at your Superbowl party? People at your wedding reception are still your guests, even if the event is not held in your house (like said Superbowl party), so they shouldn't be asked to pay for anything while there. Also keep in mind that, unlike the Superbowl party, many guests will have likely traveled and paid for a hotel room - not to mention a wedding gift - in order to attend your wedding. While the wedding ceremony is all about you, the wedding reception is about thanking your guests for celebrating in your nuptials.

Some couples think providing non-alcoholic beverages gratis while charging guests who wish to upgrade to an alcoholic beverage is perfectly acceptable, but here's another analogy: Imagine serving all of your wedding guests free soup for dinner at your reception. Now imagine offering optional lobster tail, but forcing those who wish to eat lobster instead of soup to shell out $30 for their meal. Surely you can see why this shouldn't be done. You should never offer anything that you can't afford at a party you're hosting - and then expect your guest to purchase it.

If a four or five-hour open bar is not within your budget, there are plenty of less-costly alternatives that won't offend your guests:

Offer beer, wine, and soft drinks only.

Offer a full bar for cocktail hour, then switch to beer and wine.

Decide on one type of drink to serve - either a specialty cocktail, champagne, or one type of beer or wine. Most venues will charge significantly less to serve only one type of alcoholic beverage.

Choose a wedding venue that allows you to bring in your own alcohol. Believe it or not - there are plenty of venues that do not have liquor licenses and will allow couples to bring in their own. Anything unopened can be returned for a full refund after the wedding. You may need to get a little more creative with your venue with this option and choose a mansion, museum, or a facility who's main business is not generated from weddings and special events.

Cut back on other wedding expenses. Lose the expensive designer wedding dress and shoes, do your own hair and makeup, consider less costly alternatives to floral arrangements, drive your own car rather than renting a limo, spin your own tunes instead of hiring a band or DJ... Cutting some of these expenses will free up enough of your budget to serve your guests properly. We've seen too many brides waltzing down the aisle in a Vera Wang gown carrying a bouquet of imported orchids with newly manicured nails - all while her guests are hitting up the ATM in the back so they can enjoy a glass of wine with dinner.

Invite less people to your wedding. This is the most effective way to cut wedding costs across the board. The significant savings you'll experience with a smaller guest list will allow you to treat those who you do invite with courtesy and respect.

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About the Author: Cori Russell is editor for Elegala.com and Gala Weddings Magazine. Elegala.com is a complete Weddings, Wedding Planning resource with a national directory of wedding venues and services, how-to guides, photo galleries, checklists, and expert advice to walk brides through every step of the wedding planning process.

How To Plan A Wedding Rehearsal Dinner

2010-10-07T13:51:00.002-04:00

No matter what your budget is you can have a great Rehearsal dinner if you use a little ingenuity and imagination. Contrary to what you may think it doesn't have to be formal or even a sit down dinner. The idea is for close friends and family of the happy couple to have one last get-together before the big event.

The great thing about a Rehearsal Dinner is that there are no set rules. Depending on your personality and budget you can create any type of dinner party you want.

Traditionally the Rehearsal Dinner is hosted by the groom's parents. But it is now becoming more common for the bride and groom to host their own dinner.

If you are throwing your own party, here are some ideas you might want to consider.

Formal Party A formal Dinner is nice if you are having a small party for twenty people or less. You can host the party at your favorite resturant. Usually you allow your guests to order off the menu.

Pizza Party This is a fun idea for groups who want a very casual party. The party can be hosted at a friends home or at your favorite pizza parlor. A great way to relax with your guests before the formal wedding.

HOW TO SAVE MONEY ON WEDDING FAVORS

2010-10-07T12:42:00.005-04:00

Here are some cunning ways I've found to source cheap gifts for your loved ones without resorting to taffeta bags of almonds...

How to find cheap wedding favors for your guests:

Look into stores that are going out of business and ask for a discount price on the last of all of one stock. I recently found ninety mini plaques with inspiring quotes on them for $1.50 each - down from $10 a piece!

Buy in bulk from a wholesaler. Look for retail wholesale suppliers for bulk candy or chocolate and hotel suppliers for mini soaps etc. You may be able to place a one-off order or find a friend who owns a cafe, restaurant or motel who can arrange the order for you.

Look on eBay/TradeMe or Etsy for bulk deals and end-of-lines from wholesalers and retailers. Be wary of trying to match colours you see on a computer screen to your fabric samples though- it seldom works! (spray paint does though...)

Head out after Christmas and look for sales. Look for discounted "gourmet" cookies. You can either use the cookies as-is on your table or pull them apart and repackage the presents. Last year I got twelve packs of Christmas crackers worth $35 for under $5 — that's less than fifty cents per favor. Or look for cheap chocolates (check they don't expire before the wedding date), candy and fudges.

The super cunning can also buy cheap marked down christmas cake to have handy if you don't quite have enough slices of wedding cake to go around. A large iced Christmas cake bought in Januray sets me back about $5, lasts for another six to eight months and can save paying an extra $100 for another tier on the wedding cake. I'm keeping an iced fruit cake handy for fussy purists who wont like my awesome chocolate cake.

Gift baskets are often on sale after January too. Look at the contents and see if you can pull the basket apart and repackage the gifts — mismatched favors wrapped in complementary wrapping paper (or wallpaper) make for a unique centrepiece too.

Cheap jewelry stores often have bargain bins full of out-of-season jewelry. Take to them with a set of pliers and you have some fabulous embellishments for centrepieces or favors.

Consider buying a whole roll of cellophane from a florist to wrap up your favors. It's far cheaper than buying single sheets and you can use the cellophane for future Christmas and birthday presents too.

Instead of fancy handmade boxes, pick up some white paper sweet bags from your local dairy or sweet shop and decorate them with stamps or preprinted stickers. You can seal them with a sticker, sealing wax or ribbon and they can double as name place tags too.

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How to Care for Pearls

2010-09-21T14:18:00.004-04:00

Pearls Require Special Care
Because pearls are an organic gemstone, they are somewhat different from other gemstones and precious metals. They are softer and more delicate, and they can therefore be more easily scratched, cracked, and damaged. In addition, substances such as perfume and hair spray -- and even natural body oils and perspiration -- can dull pearls' luster or cloud their brilliance. For these reasons, your pearls may require a bit of special care.

Be Careful With Cosmetics And Your Pearls
It's a good idea, for example, to apply perfume, hair spray, and other cosmetics before putting on your pearls. In this way, you can minimize the amount of these products that comes into contact with the pearls. After wearing your pearls, wipe them with a soft damp cloth to remove any traces of cosmetic products or body oils. Wash the pearls periodically with a mild soap and a soft cloth, to remove any accumulated build-up.

Have Your Pearls Restrung And Knotted For Safety
To prevent strand breakage, it's a good idea to have your pearls restrung periodically -- perhaps once a year or so if you wear them often. Knotting the strand between each pearl will prevent all of the pearls from falling off the strand in the event the strand breaks. Also, knotting prevents the pearls from rubbing against one another and causing damage. A little bit of care can go a long way toward ensuring that your pearls remain safe and bright for years to come!

Store Your Pearls Separately
Because of their delicacy, pearls should be stored separately, away from hard jewelry items, to prevent scratches or other damage. If possible, store them wrapped in soft cloth or in a soft-lined container, pouch, or jewelry box.

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27 Unique Ideas for Weddings

2010-09-21T13:35:00.003-04:00

There is nothing wrong with the traditional white wedding, but sometimes it is nice to makes yours stand out from the rest…

Today’s weddings are all about options that reflect your personalities and style. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite non-traditional or unexpected wedding ideas to incorporate into every aspect of your big day.

Ceremony Ideas

1) Location -
If you don’t host your ceremony in a house of worship or in the same location as your reception, you can get creative with your ceremony location and exchange vows at sunrise on the beach or at sunset from the rooftop of the tallest building in your metropolitan area. Get more ideas for unique ceremony sites.

2) Refreshments -
Use the season or your location as an opportunity to greet guests with a refreshing drink. Lemonade and sweet tea will quench your guests’ thirst while gathering in the blazing sun, or serve hot apple cider to warm your guests during chiller months.

3) Grand Entrance -
Make your entrance especially grand by being escorted by your pet dog or by arriving on a white horse.

4) Vows and Readings -
Not a new concept, but speaking from the heart by writing your own wedding vows or incorporating personalized poems and weddings readings into your ceremony will surely grab the attention of your guests.

Flowers & Decor Ideas

5) Color Scheme -
Try pairing a few uncommon colors together or featuring varying shades of the same color throughout your space.

6) The Food Pyramid -
Fill cylindrical glass vases with fruits and vegetables reflecting your colors. Oranges, lemons, and limes have been done so try a unique, more contemporary look with mangos or coconuts or tie it to the season with texture-rich earthy vegetables like husked corn, acorn squash, or artichokes.

7) Au Natural -
Consult Mother Nature for inspiration, and bring the outdoors in. Natural objects like stones, leaves, pinecones, even twigs can add an organic aesthetic to your reception décor. Place in rustic containers or scatter amongst pillar candles for added ambiance.

8) Lighten Up -
Floating candles in a shallow bowl adds lighting and elegance to your tabletops. Or arrange multi-level candles on a mosaic of mirrors or tiles and surround them with seashells or flower petals. Placing coffee beans or red hot candies at the bottom of a vase or bowl to hold the candles steady also adds an aromatic effect.

9) Consult your Inner Child -
For the kid at heart, fill decorative bowls with your favorite candies – such as jellybeans and M&M’s - in your wedding colors.

Find even more inspiring ideas for unique wedding decorations in this complete guide to wedding flowers and decor

Entertainment Ideas

10) Ceremony Music -
If "Here Comes the Bride" doesn’t suit your style or personality, choose a song that does. There is no written rule that states you can’t make your grand entrance to a rendition of your favorite Beastie Boys’ song.

11) Non-traditional Instruments -
If you desire live music over a DJ, consider tying your musician selection to the theme or location of your event. A beachside bash naturally lends itself to the sound of steel drums, while a trumpet quartet will sound impressive in an elaborate cathedral.

12) Themed Music -
Take it one step further and zone in on the music that is indigenous to your wedding location. Guests attending a Mardi Gras-themed event in New Orleans will bask in a cocktail hour of Dixieland jazz.

13) DJ and a Band -
Can’t decide which you would rather have? Have both to ensure that all types of music are represented throughout your day to please both your 85-year-old grandmother and your 21-year-old cousin.

Photography Ideas

14) Photojournalism
More and more brides are leaning toward hiring a photographer who specialized in a photojournalistic style. These photographers shy away from posed shots and aim to capture all of the candid moments that you’ll always want to remember or may have never seen.

15) Creative Shots
Hire your photographer to follow you throughout your entire day (leading up to the "Do Not Disturb" sign, of course). While it may make you feel anxious to have someone photograph you as you get ready, these shots will help you to remember the joy and anticipation of every part of your big day. Read more ideas for creative wedding pictures

Cake Ideas

16) Minimal Adornments -
Some brides believe in the "less is more" adage. A simple cake minimally ornamented can make a bold statement.

17) Square Tiers -
Looking for a subtle way to break away from the ordinary? Square tiers make a modern presentation. Whoever said "it’s hip to be square" must have been in the cake business.

18) Cake-free -
If cake isn’t your favorite dessert, then don’t feel the need to serve it to your guests. Apple crisp, peach cobbler, pumpkin pie, cupcakes, or even glazed doughnuts are a hit at the dessert table.

19) Sugar-free -
The end-of-meal offering doesn’t have to be made of flour and frosting. Think savory instead, and visit your local cheese shop to have them construct wheels of cheese in tiers and stacked to look like traditional wedding cake.

You can browse hundreds of unique and unusual wedding cakes in this cake photo gallery.

Attire Ideas

20) Wardrobe Change -
Today’s brides are opting to wear not one dress, but two! Wear an elegant gown while you exchange vows, then slip into something a little more comfortable to round out the evening.

21) Anything but White -
A white wedding dress symbolizes innocence and purity, but if that’s not your style, feel free to bring out your colorful personality by adding a splash of color to your attire. You can be as subtle as a colored sash and jewels or as bold as a fuchsia-colored dress.

22) Something Borrowed -
Anything retro screams chic these days. So why not consider donning your mother’s vintage gown as a tribute to a family legacy. A few alterations can make it your own.

Stationery Ideas -

23) Ethnicity -
If your heritage is important for you to represent on your big day, do some research and find a stationer who offers multi-cultural invitations and announcements.

24) Creative Touch -
For more intimate, casual gatherings, request the honor of your guests’ presence in an innovative and entertaining way. Here’s an idea - have your invite printed on a balloon so guests have to blow them up to receive the message.

25) Programs -
Do something a little different with your programs by including personal photos or by printing them on something that serves a dual purpose - like a fan.

26) Storybook -
Get the most bang for your program buck by including stories of how the two of you met, who introduced you, and your relationship to everyone in the bridal party. Think of all the time you’ll save by not having to explain all of this to your husband’s childhood neighbor during the reception!

Transportation Ideas

27) Grand Entrance -
If the size of your bridal party doesn’t warrant a stretch limousine, consider arriving on horseback, on the back of your husband’s motorcycle, or in the passenger’s seat of your dad’s antique car.

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Is Paying for Your Bridesmaids’ Hair & Makeup an Appropriate Gift?

2010-09-08T15:50:00.006-04:00

Is paying for your bridesmaids’ makeup and hairstyling an appropriate gift? Many brides have wrestled with this question. There is no exact answer, but here are some factors to consider:

Are your bridesmaids interested in fashion and beauty, and would enjoy having their hair and/or makeup done? Or are you insisting on these services because it is your wedding and they are in your pictures? If Melanie spends hours at Sephora, has a subscription to Vogue and knows that she currently carries “Moonglow” “Very Berry” and “Sublime” lip colors in her purse, chances are she’ll love the gift of makeup and hair. If Melanie spends her vacations backpacking or hiking, thinks high heels are ridiculous and painful and frowns every time she sees a mascara wand-hair and makeup services are more of an obligation than a gift.

Are the bridesmaids' dresses practical, reasonably-priced and can be worn again for a more casual occasion? Or are they imported silk, custom-designed and a high-fashion, original style and color? If the bride is insisting that her maids wear budget-straining dresses and shoes, footing the bill for their makeup and hair is advisable. Although it is an honor to participate in the wedding, bridesmaids rightfully tend to resent their entire paychecks being spent on someone else’s wedding. If their dresses aren’t too expensive and the bride is not too demanding, asking them to have their hair and makeup done may not be overkill.

Is your hairstylist and/or makeup artist reasonably-priced? Or are they stylists to the stars and therefore demand much higher rates? Are you offering these services or insisting that they be performed? If the bride has contracted Angelina Jolie’s personal makeup artist and is requiring her bridal party to do the same, it is appropriate to pick up the bill. If the bride books such artist and simply relates the pricing and information to her bridal party, it is each individual bridesmaid’s choice as to whether or not to book those services.

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For more wedding advice please visit our sister sites, Fun Weddings or Weddings By Ashlee

HOW TO CHOOSE PRINTING FOR YOUR WEDDING INVITATIONS

2010-08-20T11:15:00.008-04:00

You have a lot of options when it comes to your invitations. Depending on your wedding style, there are four basic types of invitation printing to choose from.

*Engraved Invitations

Very formal, elegant, and expensive. This is because the wording is actually etched onto a steel plate which is then inked. Typically you will receive the actual plate used for printing as a keepsake.

Black ink is usually the best color for this style. Fine cotton paper is used with this method because it will readily accept the ink and leaves the letters raised a bit off the paper.

This type of printing is quite a bit more expensive than thermography, so engraving is usually done for ultra-formal wedding invites..

* Thermography

Though less expensive than engraving, thermography yields similar quality. If an invitation looks engraved but the paper behind the printing is smooth, you have thermographed printing.

The key to thermography is in the ink, which contains a special powder. When heated. the ink rises a bit and becomes shiny.

Thermography is one of the most popular printing methods today. It is great for formal looking wedding invitations, and colored inks.

* Lithography

Most couples today tend to opt for the offset lithography, because of its cost-effectiveness and speedy delivery times. This type of printing is probably what you're probably most familiar with where an inked impression is made to a plate or a rubber cylinder and transferred to paper. Ink colors are mixed in cans from Pantone or RGB colors for exact matches. The printing appears as a flat image.

This type of printing is most commonly used for textured papers or paper that can't be produced via thermography, or engraving. It is probably the easiest printing method and one of the least expensive printing options.

* Laser Printing

You can use laser printing to create your own invitations. While the lettering will appear crisp, it won't provide the rich raised look of engraving. Laser printers use an electrostatic charge to transfer images onto paper.

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Jasmine MacDonald is the editor of Weddings By Ashlee and Merry Brides which will provide you with daily ideas and tips to help you plan the perfect wedding while staying within your budget.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jasmine_Macdonald

How to Accessorize Your Wedding Day Look

2010-08-18T14:07:00.005-04:00

By Cori Russell

OK ladies, here's music to your ears (and neck, and wrist)... now that you've got your wedding dress, it's time to accessorize it! There's no doubt about it, the right baubles perfect your wedding ensemble. Here's what you need to know to accessorize like a pro.

Bridal Jewelry Style Tips

Keep it Simple

Before the fun begins, please heed this advice. When it comes to your bridal jewelry, less really is more. Simple jewelry makes a timeless fashion statement; overdo it and you risk a phone call from Diddy asking for his bling back.

Formality Rules

Along with all other accessories, the bride's jewelry, should reflect the formality of the wedding celebration. A small, informal wedding calls for simple jewelry, while a large, formal wedding calls for more elaborate pieces.

Complement the Gown

Wedding dress style also plays a major roll in jewelry selection. As a general rule - the more detailing on the gown, the simpler the jewelry, while a dress calls for added embellishment.

Let Your Neckline Lead the Way

Your dress neckline will guide you towards what pieces and styles you'll wear. Many gowns are strapless or have low necklines, which is a perfect style to showcase a great necklace. If your gown has a high neckline, you may want to forego the necklace and concentrate on finding the perfect earrings.

Make It You

Above all, wedding day duds should reflect your personal style. So stick to studs if you've never worn chandeliers, and if you've never left the house without your favorite strand of pearls - around your neck is where they should be when you say "I do."

Pick your Metals:

The shade of your wedding dress will guide you to which metals work best:

If your dress is white - choose platinum or silver jewelry, as yellow gold may clash with stark white.

If your dress is off-white - either golds or silvers/platinums will work.

If your dress is ivory - the slightly yellowish undertones call for gold jewelry.

Pick Your Gems:

Pearls - A Classic Choice

The tradition of pearl bridal jewelry stems back to the ancient Greeks, who believed pearls promoted marital harmony. And of course, style icon Jackie O donned a strand the day she became Mrs. Kennedy, further cementing pearls as the refined gem of choice for brides everywhere.

Diamonds - The BFF of Jewelry

Diamonds didn't get their "girl's best friend" status for nothing. They're always good to add a touch of sparkle to your wedding dress. The good news for your wallet is that faux varieties work just as well.

Add Some Color

Of course, colored stones/gems present a great way to incorporate some color into your wedding day look, so don't shy away from blues, pinks, yellows - you name it.

Pick your Pieces

Necklaces:

The Choker: The classic choker features one to three strands worn close around the neck. This length works well with a jewel or bateau neckline, as it may get lost if too much skin is showing.

The Collar: This Victorian style consists of three or more strands fitting securely around the middle neck. This length is a great accent to a low or strapless neckline.

The Princess: This length falls about 16 inches to the hollow of the neck and often supports a pendant. This style works with almost any but a high neckline.

The Matinee: This style hits the top of the bust and looks great with a bateau, jewel, or a lower neckline with sheer fabric covering the décolletage area.

The Opera: The opera necklace is a long single strand falling below the bust. It creates a dramatic look when paired with a very high neckline.

Earrings:

Keep your earrings simple if your necklace is especially large or grand. You also may not want to wear earrings at all if you're wearing a tiara - as the two may compete. On the other hand - if you're going sans necklace, consider highlighting your look with elaborate earrings. Remember, the key to accessorizing is balance.
Deck your Wrist?

Although not as common as necklaces and earrings, brides can wear a bracelet with sleeveless, short-sleeve, and three-quarter sleeve gowns. However, a watch is best left at home on your wedding day unless it's a family heirloom or antique.

**Some great online jewelry sites you can check out to plan your bridal jewelry.

Pearl Jewelry at Ultra Diamonds

Ross-SimonsJewelry

MyJewelryBox.com

*For more wedding advice please visit our sister site: Weddings By Ashlee

Cori Russell is editor for Elegala.com and Gala Weddings Magazine. http://www.elegala.com/ is a complete weddings and wedding planning resource with a national directory of wedding venues and services, how-to guides, expert advice, checklists and photo galleries to walk brides and grooms through every step of the planning process.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cori_Russell

How to put your wedding invitations together

2010-08-18T13:32:00.007-04:00

Now that your've gotten your wedding invitations addressed and ready to go, what's the best way to fit it all into the envelope? Packaging up the invitation and it's extras can be as confusing and time-consuming as everything else you have done for your wedding....here is a method that should make things easier for you:

1. Place the response card face-up under the flap of the response card envelope.

2. Place a small piece of tissue paper over the lettering of the invitation.

3. Put any extra enclosures (reception cards, maps, directions. and so on) inside the invitation. Put the response card and envelope inside the invitation as well. The lettering should be facing upward.
4. Place the invitation inside the inner envelope with the lettering facing the back flap. Don't seal this envelope. (The inner envelope isn not typically gummed anyway.)

5. Put the inner envelope inside the outer envelope. Again, the writing on the inner envelope should face the flap of the outer envelope.

6. Seal the outer envelope. Make sure the envelope is properly addressed and contains your return address. Stamp and mail.

Hint: Instead of wearing out your tongue purchase a water applicator wand (with sponge) from an office supply store. These are very cheap and well worth the cost.

**Recommended Online Wedding nvitation Sources (Shop online to save money!)

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2010-08-02T15:32:00.005-04:00

Besides the obvious tools to looking your best (fitness, nutrition, style...) here are some lesser-known health and beauty tips for silky hair, glowing skin, sparkling teeth and healthy nails.

Hair Treatments

Conditioners, special shampoos and other hair treatments can increase the shine of your hair, help protect it and even repair some damage. But if you're afraid of the high price tag that often accompanies salon quality products, here are some simple at-home hair remedies that do the trick.

Dull Hair Remedies

Four household products ensure lustrous hair:

1. Lemon juice - mix it with water and rinse for added shine and bounce
2. Baking soda - mix it into your shampoo to eliminate dirt and grease.
3. Beer - after shampooing, rinse hair with flat beer to add body and shine
4. Tea - boil tea leaves and let cool; apply liquid to dry hair and let sit for 20 minutes; rinse with warm water.

Oily Hair Remedies

Two solutions to fight greasy hair:

1. Carrots - boil and mash them and apply to hair; let sit for 15 minutes; wash and rinse
2. Aloe and Lemon - mix ½ teaspoon of aloe and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice with regular shampoo; wash and rinse.

Dry Hair Remedies

Apply a deep conditioning treatment once a week. Work any of the following ingredients through hair; put on a shower cap or wrap with saran wrap; let sit for 20 minutes; wash and rinse.

1. Mayonnaise
2. Olive oil/ baby oil/coconut oil
3. Egg yolk
4. Mashed avocado
5. Mashed banana

Skin Treatments

Forget expensive designer products. Glowing skin is as easy as opening the fridge:

Oily Skin /Acne Remedies

Create a mask or spot treat with any of the following ingredients:

1. Garlic - natural antibacterial properties make garlic a great acne treatment. Press into a paste and apply on acne
2. Honey and apple - mash together, and apply to individual pimples
3. Tomato paste - apply a layer to face and let dry, rinse
4. Cooked oatmeal - apply a layer to face and let dry, rinse
5. Egg yolk - apply a layer to face and let dry, rinse

Dry Skin Remedies

Soft, supple skin is a cinch with any of the following:

1. Almond oil - use as a primer before foundation or as a night moisturizer.
2. Banana - mash and apply to face; let sit for 20 minutes
3. Mayonnaise - apply to face; let sit for 20 minutes

Exfoliating Remedies

Slough off dead skin cells with these simple solutions:

1. Coffee - mix a quarter cup of ground coffee with a tablespoon of salt; rub on face then rinse off.
2. Pineapple - a natural acid exfoliant; puree pineapple and apply to skin; let sit for 20 minutes.

Nail Treatments

Most nail damage is the result of environmental influences (washing dishes, housework, yardwork, etc.), so try to protect your nails from these culprits. But when all else fails, one at-home remedy can rescue dry, brittle nails:

1. Olive oil - olive oil moisturizes nails and softens cuticles without weakening them, preventing hang nails caused by dry skin. Soak nails in olive oil for a few minutes every week.

Tips for Teeth

Teeth discoloration can point the finger at many offenders - ageing, smoking, consuming staining foods and beverages like coffee, red wine, cola, and blueberries. So it's inevitable that many turn to teeth whitening to restore those that were once pearly.

You have your pick of expensive teeth whitening procedures and over-the-counter chemical treatments, but for a more natural solution, try making a paste of the following ingredients:

1. Strawberries - they contain malic acid, which acts as a mild astringent when mixed with baking soda or powder
2. Lemon juice and salt - lemon juice also contains acid
3. Apple cider vinegar and baking soda
4. Orange peel and bay leaves

You can find even more beauty tips in this complete health and beauty guide.

Cori Russell is editor for Elegala and Gala Weddings Magazine. Elegala is a comprehensive weddings and wedding planning resource with a national directory of wedding venues and services, along with articles, expert advice, checklists and photo galleries to lead brides through every step of the planning process.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cori_Russell

Do you know your Wedding Gown Sleeves?

2010-06-09T14:23:00.004-04:00

Wedding Gown Sleeves

Bishop Sleeves are fuller in the lower forearm, and gathered with a wide cuff at the wrist.

Capped Fitted Sleeves are very short sleeves just cupping the shoulder.

Dolman Sleeves produce a cape-like effect, extending from large armholes and often fitted at the wrist.

Gigot (Leg-of-Mutton) Sleeves appear as loose, full sleeves, rounded from the shoulder to just below the elbow, then shaped to the arm, often ending in a point at your wrist.

Illusion Fitted Sleeves appear as long or short, slender sleeves following the shape of the arm, made from illusion net and often encrusted with heavily beaded and sequined appliqués.

Melon Sleeves appear as a highly exaggerated puff, rounded from the shoulder to the elbow.

Renaissance Sleeves appear with a slightly gathered puff at the shoulder, tapering down the arm to a point ending just below the wrist on the hand. Usually in satin, encrusted with appliqués of beads and sequins.

Short Sleeves are generally fitted sleeves, falling just short of midway between the shoulder and elbow. Short sleeves are slightly longer than cap sleeves.

Tapered Sleeves appear as a slightly gathered shoulder with little fullness, tapering down the arm to the wrist.

Three-quarter Sleeves appear most often as fitted sleeves ending slightly below the elbow.

Engagement Ring Traditions

2010-04-27T06:30:00.005-04:00

By Cori Russell

When it comes wedding rings, the type of metal you choose will be a major influence in style, function, and cost. This guide to ring metals will help you make the choice that's right for you.

Platinum

Great Because...

It's valuable - King Louis declared platinum the only metal fit for a king, need we say more?

It's durable - platinum is resistant to tarnish and great for holding prong settings

It's hypoallergenic - platinum is 90-95% pure and won't irritate the skin

The Downside...

It's expensive - it's rare, making it more price sensitive

It's malleable - platinum nicks and scratches easily; however, since no metal is lost - it can be buffed to look good as new.

Gold

Great Because...

It's traditional - gold has withstood the test of time to be the most common wedding ring metal

It's less expensive - gold is more abundant than platinum, making it more affordable

The Downside...

It's not as pure - gold is always mixed with metal alloys (copper, silver, nickel) to make it stronger. The lower the karat, the higher the percentage of other metals.
It's soft - making it susceptible to denting. The higher the karat, the more pure - and therefore softer - it is. If you're highly active and not planning to purchase platinum, you may want to consider a lower karat gold.

It's not as pure - gold is always mixed with metal alloys (copper, silver, nickel) to make it stronger. The lower the karat, the higher the percentage of other metals.
It can irritate skin - metal alloys can cause allergic reactions

Titanium

Great Because...

It's hypoallergenic

It's strong - three times stronger than steel

It's inexpensive

The Downside...

It can't be resized

Silver

Great Because...

It's the least expensive precious metal

The Downside...

It's extremely soft - even when combined with other metals, it shows wear over time

It can irritate skin - usually combined with nickel to make it stronger, silver can cause skin irritations.

Mix it Up

Freaking out because he likes yellow gold and you like platinum? Relax, there's no rule that your bands have to match. What matters is that both of you have a ring you'll enjoy wearing.

Great Deals you might want to check out:

Fine Jewelry Closeouts

Diamond Harmony's Deal Of The Week

Shop and Save 50% on Unique Wedding Bands at DesignBands.com.

Cori Russell is editor for Elegala.com and Gala Weddings Magazine. Elegala.com is a comprehensive wedding planning resource with a national directory of wedding venues and services, along with articles, expert advice, checklists and photo galleries to lead brides through every step of the planning process.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cori_Russell

12 Questions to Ask Your Catererr

2009-09-09T11:46:00.005-04:00

By Kelli Zeigler

No matter what type of caterer you need, there are a few key questions you should ask before you make any commitments.

Last word of advice...NEVER sign contract without making sure every solitary detail is listed with exact fees. Read the contract carefully, otherwise you may end up paying more than you planned to.

Fun Deals

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Personalized Wedding Gifts for Parents!

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Plan a Spring Wedding - 29 Ways to Tie in the Season

2009-04-05T14:15:00.003-04:00

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By Cori Russell

The tulips are blooming, the temperatures are rising - what a perfect time for a wedding! Get started planning your spring themed wedding now with these inspiring ideas for spring weddings...

Spring Theme Weddings - Things to Consider

Daylight saving time -means the sun will set an hour later. Keep this in mind if you envision a sunset outdoor ceremony.

Prom factor - May and June are prime prom months, so be sure to book your transportation and locations early.

Variable weather - spring weather can be unpredictable. An unseasonably warm and sunny Friday can give way to a miserably cold and rainy Saturday. Be prepared for both extremes.

All in the Details - Spring Wedding Ideas

Invitations & Stationery

1. Add a spring motif - such as a tulip or butterfly - to your stationery suite

2. Consider color - use paper or inks in a spring color palette - pastels, greens, etc.

3. Get whimsical - find a fun, flirty font to evoke a festive spring feeling

4. An added touch - insert a sprinkling of silk flowers into each envelope

Location

5. Garden settings abound - take advantage of budding leaves and flowers with botanical gardens, mansions with lush grounds, or another venue with a pristine garden or courtyard.

6. Take it indoors - if an outdoor setting isn't possible - find an indoor venue with panoramic picture windows affording lots of sunlight and a bright airy ambiance.

Décor Elements

7. Color palette - 1) green and white - an elegant accompaniment to a garden setting. 2) yellow and green -another fresh, natural color pairing. 3) preppy - combine hot pink with green or mango (think polka dots and gingham). 4) chocolate brown - this trendy hue works well for spring - pair with pale blue or pink.

8. Go wild with patterns - create a playful effect - think gingham, polka dots, eyelet lace, swiss dots and stripes.

9. Add some greens - grasses and greenery are a natural for outdoor garden settings. Drape over arbors and incorporate in arrangements

Flowers

10. Seasonal blooms - classics include tulips, daffodils, lilies (especially calla lilies and easter lilies), magnolias, gardenias, hydrangeas, gerbera daisies, apple or cherry blossoms. View our complete list of spring wedding flowers

11. Creative containers - put your arrangements in simple, homespun containers like wicker baskets, watering cans, teapots, or urns.

12. Potted plants - potted arrangements create a natural, organic look. Best of all -you can plant them for a timeless reminder of your wedding

Menu

13. In Season - serve a main dish featuring ham or lamb

14. Fresh produce - round out the meal with a bounty of fresh fruits and young vegetables like baby carrots, baby asparagus and new potatoes

15. Elegant sides - serve mini quiches or update traditional deviled eggs by adding salmon or crabmeat

16. Bar favorites - a spring menu seems to call for champagne. Mix up a batch of mimosas for a morning wedding, or create a festive champagne cocktail.

Wedding Cake

17. Coconut Confection - coconut frosting and fillings make a quintessential spring treat

18. Crazy for carrot - carrot cake with cream cheese icing is another springtime fave.

19. Light and fluffy - go with angel food cake and fresh strawberries or strawberry cream

20. Whimsical adornments - decorate with bright, fanciful details like ribbon, swiss dots or swirl patterns.

Attire

21. Loosen up - feel free to relax the dress code a bit, especially if the wedding will take place outside

22. Lighten up - lighter fabrics like lace or cotton create a perfect springtime look

23. Wedding gown - Add some color with a sash or detailed embroidery

24. Bridesmaids dresses - Pastels are a springtime classic. Keep yours fresh by choosing a color and allowing each of your maids to select a different hue. Or go in another direction with a bolder turquoise, fuschia or mango.

25. Avoid satin shoes - they don't hold up well under springtime showers

26. The guys - They'll look seasonably appropriate in tan suits, colored shirts and ties. For a formal evening affair, a basic tux always works.

Favors

27. Keep love blooming - with packs of flower seeds

28. Plant it - give miniature potted plants or herbs

Getaway

29. Horse-drawn carriage - this Cinderella-like getaway make a fitting finale to an ethereal springtime wedding

Author: Cori Russell is editor for Elegala.com and Gala Weddings Magazine. Elegala.com is a comprehensive wedding planning resource with a national directory of wedding venues and services, along with articles, expert advice, checklists and photo galleries to lead brides through every step of the planning process.Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cori_Russell

For some additional wedding planning ideas please be sure to visit one of our sister sites: Fun Weddings, Merry Bridals, Merry Brides, Weddings By Ashlee

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR WEDDING FLORIST

2009-03-06T13:45:00.007-05:00

By: Jasmine Macdonald

1. Is my date available?

If it is, check to see if a deposit is necessary to hold the date. Also ask if there is any consultation fee. Inquire as to whether you can receive a price proposal before deposit its placed.

2. Do you have actual photographs or samples of your past work?

It's important to see the work of the actual florist not air brushed photos from a FTD book. There is no better way to see if their style complements your tastes and verify just how skilled they are.

3. Is there a delivery or set-up fee?

Watch out this can be a substantial extra charge. Most florists will charge a delivery and set-up fee especially if you have either complex flower arrangements or a site that is a long distance from their shop. If the charge is high, consider finding a florist closer to the site or cut back on the complicated decorations.

4. Do you offer any silk or dried flower arrangements?

This may be important to you if you want to save your bouquet or want an unusual look for a table centerpiece. Sometimes these two options may be less expensive than fresh flowers, especially for some exotics like orchids. A table centerpiece idea: dried rose topiaries double as an elegant keepsake.

5. How many weddings do you do in a day?

The biggest problem with some florists is that they become over-extended trying to do too many weddings in one day. A florist can probably do two or three events a day if the events are held at different times or the florist has plenty of help. If the florist schedule looks crowded for your wedding date, they may arrive late or deliver the wrong flowers. Be sure to look for someone focused on your wedding not just your checkbook.

6. Are you familiar with my ceremony and reception site locations?

If not, will you visit it with me? It may be a good idea to introduce your florist to the ceremony or reception site if they have never seen it. Ask if there is any charge for this on-site visit.

7. What rental items do you have? How are they priced?

Some things you many want to rent include a candelabrum, aisle standards or urns. The best florists don't over charge on rentals. One way to find out is to compare prices with a local rental store. A common markup for florists is about 10% for their time to coordinate this detail. If you would prefer to rent the items yourself because you can get a better price, be sure you have the time to pick up and return the items.

8. Can I attend one of your weddings during set-up for a look at your designs?

Here is another way to determine how professional and talented your florist is. You will need to visit during set-up and leave before the wedding party arrives. Try not to interrupt the florists or their staff while they work (save your questions for later.) Look for timeliness, freshness of the flowers, and how well the florist and staff work together.

9. What time will you be at my ceremony and reception sites to set up my wedding?

Confirm this time constantly throughout your planning. Many florists set up weddings a couple of hours in advance. If this is the case with your wedding, make sure the temperature at your site will not be too hot for the flowers.

10. Will you merely drop off my flowers or stay through the ceremony?

The degree of service here differs dramatically from florist to florist. Some just drop off the flowers for the ceremony and leave, while others will stay to pin on corsages, make sure nothing is missing etc. There will be an extra fee of generally $50-75 for this service; however this could be a worthwhile investment.
11. What happens if the flowers I pick are not available for my wedding?

How will you determine what flowers to substitute?

12. What is the policy if i want to add extra items such as another table centerpiece or boutonniere at the last minute?

About the author: Jasmine MacDonald is the editor of Fun Weddings and Merry Brides which will provide you with daily ideas and tips to help you plan the perfect wedding while staying within your budget. Jasmine can also help you design your very own wedding website to keep your friends and family updated about your wedding plans. Check out a Free Trial offer at Merry Brides Wedding Window. No experience is necessary. Within 15 minutes you can have your webpage online.

Wedding Invitation Wording Examples For Every Scenario

2009-03-04T05:27:00.006-05:00

By Cori Russell

Gone are the days when wedding etiquette mandated that the bride's parents, and the bride's parent's only, hosted the wedding. Today anyone can foot the bill, and with modern familial arrangements often anything but nuclear, there is no straightforward rule for wording invitations. Below is wording samples for some of the most common arrangements.

Bride's Parents Host - traditional

Mr. and Mrs. John Doe Smith
request the honour of your presence
at the marriage of their daughter
Jane Marie
to
Thomas Allan Johnson
Saturday, the sixteenth of July
two thousand and eight
at six o'clock in the evening
Peachtree Presbyterian Church
3434 Roswell Road
Atlanta, Georgia

Bride's Parents Host - variation mentioning groom's parents

Mr. and Mrs. John Doe Smith
invite you to share in the joy
of the marriage uniting their daughter
Jane Marie
to
Thomas Allan Johnson
Son of Mr. and Mrs. Joe P. Johnson
Saturday, the sixteenth of July
two thousand and eight
at six o'clock in the evening
Peachtree Presbyterian Church
3434 Roswell Road
Atlanta, Georgia

Bride's Parent Deceased, Remaining Parent Hosts

Mr. John Doe Smith
requests the honour of your presence
at the marriage of his daughter
Jane Marie
to
Thomas Allan Johnson
Saturday, the sixteenth of July
Two thousand and eight
at six o'clock in the evening
Peachtree Presbyterian Church
3434 Roswell Road
Atlanta, Georgia

Bride's Parent Deceased, Remaining Parent Hosts with New Spouse

Mr. and Mrs. John Doe Smith
requests the honor of your presence
at the marriage of Mr. John Smith's daughter
Jane Marie
to
Mr. Thomas Allan Johnson
Saturday, the sixteenth of July
Two thousand and eight
at six o'clock in the evening
Peachtree Presbyterian Church
3434 Roswell Road
Atlanta, Georgia

Both parents and Bride/Groom Host

Miss Jane Marie Smith
and
Mr. Thomas Allan Johnson
together with their parents
request the favor of your presence
at their marriage
Saturday, the sixteenth of July
Two thousand and eight
at six o'clock in the evening
Peachtree Presbyterian Church
3434 Roswell Road
Atlanta, Georgia

Bride and Groom Host

The honor of your presence
is requested at the marriage of
Miss Jane Marie Smith,
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Doe Smith
and
Thomas Allan Johnson
son of Mr. and Mrs. Joe P. Johnson
Saturday, the sixteenth of July
Two thousand and eight
at six o'clock in the evening
Peachtree Presbyterian Church
3434 Roswell Road
Atlanta, Georgia

Joint Hosts - Multiple Friends and Families

Please join family and friends
in celebrating the Marriage of
Jane Marie Smith and Thomas Allan Johnson
Saturday, the sixteenth of July
Two thousand and eight
at six o'clock in the evening
Peachtree Presbyterian Church
3434 Roswell Road
Atlanta, Georgia

Reception to follow at
the home of Dave and Carol Murphy
543 Main Street

Divorced Parents are Jointly Hosting

Mrs. Mary Peterson
and
Mr. John Doe Smith
request the honor of your presence
at the marriage of their daughter
Jane Marie Smith
to
Thomas Allan Johnson
Saturday, the sixteenth of July
Two thousand and eight
at six o'clock in the evening
Peachtree Presbyterian Church
3434 Roswell Road
Atlanta, Georgia

Bride's Remarried Parent & New Spouse Hosts

Mary and Bill Peterson
request the honor of your presence
at the marriage of her daughter
Jane Marie Smith
to
Thomas Allan Johnson
Saturday, the sixteenth of July
Two thousand and eight
at six o'clock in the evening
Peachtree Presbyterian Church
3434 Roswell Road
Atlanta, Georgia

Bride's Divorced Parent Hosts Alone

Mrs. Mary Peterson
requests the honor of your presence
at the marriage of her daughter
Jane Marie Smith
to
Thomas Allan Johnson
Saturday, the sixteenth of July
Two thousand and eight
at six o'clock in the evening
Peachtree Presbyterian Church
3434 Roswell Road
Atlanta, Georgia

Both Parents Deceased, Invitations Issued by an Elder Brother

Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan H. Smith
request the honor of your presence
at the marriage his sister
Jane Marie
to
Thomas Allan Johnson
Saturday, the sixteenth of July
Two thousand and eight
at six o'clock in the evening
Peachtree Presbyterian Church
3434 Roswell Road
Atlanta, Georgia

Both Sets of Parents Host

Mr. and Mrs. John Doe Smith
and Mr. and Mrs. Joe P. Johnson
request the honor of your presence
at the marriage of their children
Jane Marie Smith
and
Thomas Allan Johnson
Saturday, the sixteenth of July
Two thousand and eight
at six o'clock in the evening
Peachtree Presbyterian Church
3434 Roswell Road
Atlanta, Georgia

Groom's Parents Host

Mr. and Mrs. Joe P. Johnson
request the honour of your presence
at the marriage of
Miss Jane Marie Smith
to their son
Mr. Thomas Allan Johnson
Saturday, the sixteenth of July
two thousand and eight
at six o'clock in the evening
Peachtree Presbyterian Church
3434 Roswell Road
Atlanta, Georgia

Recommended sites : Great Deals on Wedding Invitations

Design your wedding invitation at MyJeanM.com and request a sample for only $2.50!
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Create the custom wedding invitations of your dreams. Personalize your invitation online, view the preview, and order it on the spot!

Cori Russell is editor for Elegala.com and Gala Weddings Magazine. Elegala.com is a comprehensive weddings, wedding planning with a national directory of wedding venues and services, along with articles, expert advice, checklists and photo galleries to lead brides through every step of the planning process.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cori_Russell

5 Ways To Find Cheap Wedding Dresses That Look Anything But

2009-02-27T11:21:00.003-05:00

By Cori Russell

Your wedding gown is arguably the most important garment
purchase in your lifetime. No other dress comes with more anticipation – and will be more photographed - than this one. But that doesn´t mean you have to spend like royalty to look like a princess on your wedding day. With these smart strategies, you can still walk down the aisle feeling like a million bucks (without having to spend just that).

Something Borrowed
Today, anything retro screams chic. So consider donning your mother´s wedding gown. You´ll not only honor a family legacy, you´ll save a pretty penny too. With vintage lace overlays and crystal embellishments making a comeback, you won´t have to worry about looking dated. With a few simple (and inexpensive) alterations, you can make it your own.

Avoid Added Adornments
Beading, pleating, stitching, embroidering…all of these trimmings add up and are going to cost you extra. Consider a dress that is simply embellished, yet still elegant.

Shop Savvy
Be on the lookout for sample sales, trunk shows, and outlet bargains. Bridal shops are trying to rid their racks of the previous season´s styles to make room for new ones in the late-summer/winter months. Get ready to brave the crowds for super savings.

Don't Name Drop
Sure, designer duds are nice – but if you´re on a budget – you may want to skip the sought-after label. The good news is that you won´t have to sacrifice on style. If you find a look you like from a high-end dress designer, you can almost always find something similar by another name in your price range.

Be Honest
Just because your wedding dress budget doesn´t match your elaborate vision doesn´t mean you have to sacrifice the look you want. Approach this shopping decision with an open mind. When stepping into a bridal boutique, tell them exactly what you can realistically spend, and let them take care of the rest. They are the experts, and you might be surprised to see what they can come up with—the perfect wedding gown exists at every price point.

Think Outside Traditional Tulle and Lace
There´s no written rule that says your wedding day attire has to be an official bridal gown. The look you are going for is often available through another avenue. For instance, many bridesmaids´ dresses come in white or ivory, offering a less expensive, less fussy alternative to the traditional wedding dress.

A great online discount store you might want to check out is The House of Brides . This is a great company as they offer Quick Delivery and Discount Weddings dresses.

For some additional wedding planning advice please be sure to visit our sister sites:

Fun Weddings , Weddings By Ashlee, Merry Bridals

Cori Russell is editor for Elegala.com and Gala Weddings Magazine. Elegala.com is a complete Weddings and Wedding Planning resource with a national directory of wedding venues and services, how-to guides, photo galleries, checklists, and expert advice to walk brides through every step of the wedding planning process. View the complete sitemap to find everything you need to plan your wedding.

Duties of the Maid / Matron of Honor

2008-07-07T18:24:00.002-04:00

By Jasmine Macdonald

When choosing your Maid/Matron of honor you should make sure she is someone you can depend upon through thick and thin as she will play a major role in your wedding. She can be your best friend, or a family member. Some brides are even asking their mothers' to stand up with them as their Matron of Honor.

Here are some of the duties of the Maid/Matron of Honor

1. Provides the bride with advice and moral support when she is frustrated and ready to pull her hair.

2. Helps with pre-wedding activities such as addressing invitations, making phone calls, and running errands. Often accompanies the bride when meeting caters, florist, bakers etc.

3. Helps the bride pick her gown and the bridesmaid dresses.

4. Acts as the head-bridesmaid: organizes bridesmaid's gown fittings, schedules all wedding day hair and makeup appointments, spreads the word about the bridal registry.

5. Pays for her own wedding attire (excluding flowers).

6. Attends all pre-wedding parties.

7. May host a bridal shower (with or without the help of the bridesmaids).

8. Helps the bride dress and stay calm on her wedding day.

9. Precedes the bride down the isle.

10. Holds the groom's ring until ceremony exchange (only if there is no ring-bearer).

11. Arranges bride's veil and train during ceremony.

12. Holds bride's bouquet during part of the ceremony.

13. May stand in receiving line.

14. May sign the wedding certificate as a witness.

15. Helps the bride get ready for her honeymoon when leaving the reception.

16. After the reception she gathers up any gifts, and makes sure they are brought safely to the couple's home.

17. In the days following the reception she will make sure any rental items are returned to the store. She may also take the bride's wedding gown to the dry-cleaners so it can be preserved properly (Hint: The sooner the gown is dry-cleaned, the less chance there are of permanent stains!)

**** FUN SITES ****

Wedding Websites - Free Trial offer

The Wedding Store

Wedding Registries

Jasmine Macdonald publishes several wedding websites: http://www.fun.createswebsites.com, http://www.windsor.weddingwindow.com You can visit her daily wedding blog at: http://funweddings.blogspot.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jasmine_Macdonald

Additional Wedding Advice:

MerryBrides
Fun Weddings
Great Wedding Advice
Sparkling Weddings

Create Your Own Wedding Website- Great way to keep your guests updated on your wedding!

Wedding Ideas to Go Green, And to Give Back

2008-04-27T18:32:00.005-04:00

By: Linda Ellison

Are you a "bride-zilla"? Hopefully not. This term was of course coined for the bride who goes overboard in her demands for her wedding, even throwing temper tantrums when things aren't quite going her way.

Fortunately, not all brides are like this, and not only are they absolutely joyful during "their" day, but some couples even use the occasion of their wedding to express their concern for others, and concern for the environment. Any bride and groom can use their big day as an opportunity to give back to the community and to show respect for the earth, with the right socially conscious wedding ideas. Here are just a few:

Stay simple and as small as possible. More guests mean more transportation, more food, and more energy. Fewer guests mean less waste and less consumption. Keep all your wedding ideas tasteful but modest.

Cut down on the auto emissions by using fewer cars to and from the ceremony. If you must use limos, use just one for the men and one for the women. Better yet, skip the limousines and use compact cars. If you can find a horse-drawn carriage, consider this as an eco-friendly wedding idea, not just a romantic one!

Many brides are setting up websites to share with friends and family all the plans they're making for the wedding and to post photos, the story of how the couple met, and so on. Another eco-friendly wedding idea is to use this website as a means of getting your invitation RSVPs as well, to eliminate both the paper used for the cards and the gasoline used to deliver them.

Use recycled material as much as possible. This means napkins, place cards for the seating chart, matchbook covers, and whatever other paper wedding ideas you have at your reception. You can even shop for invitations that are made from recycled paper as well; many invitation companies offer this option.

Avoid the word "disposable." This only refers to something that's going to be used once and thrown away. For some years, a popular wedding idea has been to leave disposable cameras at each table of the reception hall for guests to take candid shots, but this means several dozen disposable cameras thrown away within a few days. Multiply that by the number of weddings that happen across the U.S. every weekend and you see why the landfills are so … full.

In addition to recycled material, cut down on WHAT you use as well. Have one main menu for each table placed attractively in the middle rather than a separate menu for each guest. This principle can apply for all your wedding ideas that are printed – forego so many of the inserts in your invitations that are unnecessary, such as the blotter sheet, the inner envelope, and so on.

And the decorations are another area where you can be simple to conserve and cut back on energy usage. Everyone wants a breathtaking venue and reception hall and your wedding ideas may be something grand in scale, but consider getting creative with decorations that can be reused. For example, stringing lights around artificial trees can add a beautiful touch to any wedding – both the lights and the trees can be taken home to reuse.

Potted plants are better than cut flowers, balloons, and crepe paper, all of which will just be thrown away. Speak with your florist about what wedding ideas there are for blooming plants that will add just the right color and style for your location; guests can then take the plants home afterward. Use candles for the ceremony and reception as much as possible (being mindful of safety of course). This wedding idea will not only add a romantic feel, it will cut back on energy usage from lights.

Making things simple can also apply to your menu. Many couples forego a full dinner because of budget reasons, but think about how much energy is used to make a multiple-course meal for hundreds. To save some energy, make your reception wedding ideas simple. By having a smaller wedding later in the evening you can offer a simple appetizer and dessert menu, saving not only energy but money as well. Speak to your caterer openly and candidly about what you're looking for.

And be mindful of your wedding ideas when it comes to favors as well. Make sure you're choosing items that will be used and appreciated; many brides have given up the option of bottled water with personalized labels, as some fail to recycle the bottles. Whatever your choice of favors, be sure that it's something that guests will keep and appreciate.

And the most responsible and conscientious thing that couples are doing today with their wedding ideas is making sure that not even the leftover food goes to waste. Before your ceremony, get in touch with a local soup kitchen and arrange to have any leftovers donated, if possible. You can even get your guests involved and ask that they donate to a favorite charity in lieu of gifts to you, or choose gifts that can be given to a local children's hospital, homeless shelter, and so on. These are great socially conscious wedding ideas for the couple that is getting married after having already established a household, meaning that they have little need for the typical blenders, toasters, and so on.

All of these socially conscious wedding ideas are just some ways that brides and grooms can show their concern and respect for the environment and for others. Many are keeping in mind that while it's "their" day, it's "our" planet, and there's no better time to show your appreciation for that than with your own generous and original wedding ideas.

RECOMMENDED WEDDING LINKS

Dream Honeymoons; Destination Weddings!

Free Personalized Wedding Website

Win a Free Wedding Dress

Additional Wedding Advice:
http://merrybrides.blog,com
http://funweddings.blogspot.com
http://windsor.weddingwindow.com
http://merrybrides.livejournal.com

Article by:
Linda Ellison is a freelance writer who specializes in trends and lifestyles. Her previously published fiction works, including the Dana Ford Mystery Series, have been on bookshelves nationwide. Visit www.FavorsAndWraps.com to read more about the latest trends in wedding favors.This article is available for reprint with author's resource box intact and all links live and clickable. Copyright is reserved by author.

The Bride Isn't Shy Anymore!

2008-03-28T13:50:00.008-04:00

By Linda Ellison

Remember the phrase "blushing bride"? It was thought for centuries that brides were supposed to be demure, shy, quiet and reserved. This attitude was reflected in so many choices for her wedding – including the colors she chose for the bridesmaids' dresses, table linens, and everything else. Pastels were the norm, including soft pinks, pale blues, and mint greens. Everything, especially wedding colors, was subtle and seen as feminine.

Today's modern bride has redefined that word. She is probably someone that has worked, and worked hard. She juggles her own career ambitions while not giving up her desire for a home and family. A blushing bride she is not!

And this is being reflected in her choices for wedding colors, in accessories and other items. Over the past few years, colors have become stronger and deeper. Mint green has been traded for hunter or forest shades. Pale blue has given way to navy or royal. Everything has become bolder, deeper, stronger – just like the bride herself. It's not unusual to see the once taboo wedding colors choice of black or fire engine red to be worked into a wedding décor, and sometimes even those two colors together.

The choices for colors at a wedding are no greater indication of a bride's personality, and this trend of the strong and independent woman isn't going to go away anytime soon, and neither is the choice for stronger and bolder wedding colors.

However, this isn't to say that today's bride is so strong that she's become unapproachable, or that she is choosing strong colors just for the sake of how strong they are. One of the hottest trends in wedding colors today is shades of warm brown and tan. Even for wedding dresses, the bride herself may choose a sash or bow of russet or auburn shades.

The brown family of colors is closely associated with warm, nurturing foods– think of coffee, cocoa, and chocolate. Brown is often seen in nature, another element of nurturing and caring. Even in the application of feng shui, it's encouraged to use shades of brown in rooms where you want to feel relaxed and comforted, such as the living room or bedroom. By selecting wedding colors of these darker shades, the bride may be expressing her nurturing, caring, warm side.

The same could be said of the many shades of green that are fast becoming available. No longer does the bride only have the choice of mint or pale green, but now bridesmaids' dresses and table linens are being offered in stronger shades of celery, jade, and emerald. Hunter and forest greens are also popular, and also may be seen as strong but nurturing. These are two shades also abundantly available in nature, and the term "mother earth" was coined for a reason. When we think of nature or use shades found in nature, these are seen as warm and caring.

Jewel tones of any color are also very popular wedding colors, especially when planning a winter or holiday wedding. When choosing colors that are of a jewel tone, a bride can even mix up the shades for her table linens – emerald green and ruby red for a December wedding, for instance. Adding some sapphire blue and shades of gold can break up the colors and still keep the venue looking festive.

Of course, those brides who still prefer the softer wedding colors of the pastel family have a wealth of options for them. Softer colors never go out of style, and are still seen as being romantic and even passionate. Additionally, by choosing softer colors, the bride knows that they will not overwhelm the setting or theme of the wedding. If you have a large number of bridesmaids and a huge banquet hall, choosing colors such as red and black as your accent can be too powerful, and can even cause the bride herself to get lost in the pictures! The larger the venue and number of attendants, the softer the color shades should be. Of course, these wedding colors can be mixed and matched as well. A bride may opt for her attendants to be in soft pink while the maid of honor is in a darker shade of rose red or light purple. If opting for soft wedding colors, you don't want to make the mistake of having your venue or dresses look washed out or faded. A bride needs to make sure that there are some stronger accent colors to tie everything together.

In the end of course wedding colors are going to be a bride's choice and will no doubt reflect not just her personality but the prevailing trend at the time. Whatever her preferences for the wedding colors – shy and sweet pastels, bold and strong reds and blues, nurturing browns and greens – she has a wealth of options available to her today, and no longer needs to be shy about expressing her true personality in her wedding party!

Discussing Finances An Important First Step for Newlyweds

2008-02-01T06:48:00.000-05:00

(MS) - With wedding costs getting higher each year, much of a bride and groom's pre-wedding focus is on finances. But as any newlywed knows, the focus on finances isn't lifted once the walk down the aisle is complete and the honeymoon is over.

In fact, newlyweds face a number of financial to-do's once they've arrived home. Though some might seem obvious, due to the hectic nature of weddings it's important to review just what you have and haven't done.

· Changed policies? Chances are, both spouses have separate insurance policies, investment accounts, 401(k) plans, etc. Once married, it's prudent for couples to change the beneficiaries on such accounts should something happen to either person. Regardless of what each individual's assets are, it's important to make these changes as soon as possible after the wedding, when doing so is still fresh on your mind.

· Examined your coverages? Couples should compare each other's insurance policies. Oftentimes, couples save money when combining policies such as automobile insurance. Check for duplicate coverage as well, so you can avoid essentially paying for the same thing twice. If you both have renter's insurance, one person can now drop it, since it's likely you'll be living together.

It's also important to reconsider health insurance plans offered by both your places of employment. Most companies offer a choice of coverages, some which are better for singles and others that benefit married couples. Also, sometimes it makes more sense for each spouse to keep their own coverage. Either way, examine both the existing policies and other options and determine what's best.

· Updated your will? Most singles don't even have a will, but it's important for married couples to have one in case of an accident. Many couples prefer their spouse have the power of attorney should they get in an accident, but unless there's a will stating that preference, that position can be challenged by family members. A will ensures your assets will go where you want them to go in case of an accident, and will make sure the person you want to handle such matters is the one who will end up handling them.

· Discussed debt? While most couples have discussed longterm financial goals before walking down the aisle, even the closest of couples might be too embarrassed or ashamed to discuss their personal debt with their spouse. However, each person's financial background will impact the couple's financial future, so if you haven't discussed each other's debt already, do it soon and develop a plan for eliminating debt.

This is also a good time to bring up a budget. Due to the escalating cost of real estate, many newly married couples cannot afford to purchase a home right after they've gotten married. Since home ownership is a goal of most married couples, when discussing debt it's best to establish a mutual budget as well. Lots of couples feature one spender and one saver, but the way for both to be happy and ultimately realize financial goals is to agree upon and adjust to an established budget.

Recommended Reading

For Richer Not Poorer: The Newlywed's Financial Survival Guides

Additional Wedding Planning Advice
http://funweddings.blogspot.com/
http://merrybrides.livejournal.com
http://merrybrides.blog.com
http://weddingsbyashlee.blog.com
http://funweddings.blog.com

The Bridezilla Syndrome: Do You Have It?

2008-01-31T19:32:00.000-05:00

In a fast-paced world of wedding planning, stress levels are high; immune systems are low; and over the course of the past 20 years, brides have transmitted, what has become a bridal epidemic of our time.

The number of victims has steadily increased; and to date, there is no cure. It's been dubbed various clinical names: Multiple Personality Disorder, Schizophrenia, Temporary Insanity. But in the world of matrimony, anyone who's been exposed - fiancés, family, friends, and victims themselves - this broadening illness has been commonly termed "Bridezilla Syndrome" or "BS."

A contagious condition, BS has become more prominent and has plagued today's busy, wedding-planning woman. In a preliminary study, the disease has spread at an alarming rate. Symptoms of victims of BS - better known as Bridezillas - include reoccurring mood spells, bouts with selfishness, signs of controlling behavior and feelings of meticulousness.

Unfortunately fiancés, bridal party members, friends and family eventually fall victim to the actions and attitudes of a Bridezilla.

Research suggests that symptoms are recognized most often by the fiancé and Maid of Honor, and are completely undetectable by the actual victim. In some cases, a bridal party member, who having had too much alcohol to drink, confronted the Bridezilla. Most often, an emotional, breakdown of the victim would follow, thus intensifying her condition. In a survey of 100 Maids of Honor, an alarming 85% said they avoided confrontation with the victim for fear it would only exasperate the illness.

So we must ask the underlying questions: Where is all this BS coming from? How does one know when she's full of it? Unfortunately the source has not been found; though it is believed that it has existed since the dawn of the institution of marriage. A short-term condition (symptoms persist about 1-2 years depending on one's wedding date), Bridezillas seem to have been unfairly blamed for their actions, for which some believe they have no control, albeit their control over everything else. In fact, it's been clinically proven that a Bridezilla actually does have feelings - feelings of selfishness, insecurity, anxiousness and stress!

Though it's been said there is no cure, there are ways to prevent infection of BS. A survey of healthy brides, whom successfully planned their weddings without contracting the disease, was conducted. Results showed commonalities of the actions performed to avoid the disorder. Doctors, psychologists and wedding planners strongly suggest the following preventative therapy:

1. Keep Perspective - remind yourself that the wedding is only one day in your life. When things get out of control, close your eyes and remember the reason why you are planning this wedding in the first place.

2. Don't Assume Your Groom Doesn't Want to Help - ask him what he'd like to take responsibility for; and then let him. (note: some grooms may follow the cliché and decline this offer.)

3. Know That You Can't Control Everything - realize this and accept it!

4 Delegate. Delegate. Delegate - If you act like you can handle everything, people will let you. Spread the duties.

5. Don't Sweat the Small Stuff - people won't remember whether or not your invitations had those cute little tissues enclosed.

6. Treat The People You Cherish with Love - the wedding is one day; your family and friends are forever.

7. Allow Others to Vent - give your fiancé, family and bridesmaids permission to tell you when you're going off the deep-end.

8. Take the Heat - give yourself permission to hear them.

9. Do Something for Yourself Every Day - the catch is that it must not involve the wedding.

10. No Wedding Talk After 10pm.

Although preventative therapy is available, some brides inherently fall victim and still contract BS. But there is hope! This is not a terminal illness. In fact in most cases, the bride has been known to be miraculously cured once she has returned from her honeymoon. Doctors and psychologists theorize that the change in altitude from flying coupled with excessive levels of the love hormone, Oxytocin counteracts the disease by boosting the immune system, thus eliminating symptoms.

In cases of remission, the disease has been known to resurface when a person, under certain circumstances, may be planning her wedding again. According to research, those brides with a higher IQ score avoided the reoccurrence of symptoms by simply eloping.

Whatever your situation, whether a Bridezilla, fiancé, friend or family member of one -- join in the fight! With love, hope and education, our brides of the future and their bridal parties will have a winning chance against all the BS!

Product Recommendation:

THE PERFECT WEDDING BEGINS WITH INSPIRATION!

Romantic, humorous, touching and true. This books brings to light the true meaning of love and commitment, whether you are newly engaged, recently married or reflecting on the years of married bliss. Makes the perfect bridal shower gift!

Chicken Soup for the Bride's Soul (Click Here)

About the Author

Gina Romanello, author of Chicken Soup for the Bride's Soul. Noticing many friends and family members endure the stress of planning a wedding, Gina saw a need for Chicken Soup for the Bride's Soul, a Chicken Soup title sure to comfort and enlighten a stressed-out bride planning her big day. Visit Gina's website Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/Footnote: Preventative Therapy of BridezillaSyndrome provided by http://www.weddingquestions.com/

Additional Wedding Planning Reading:

http://merrybrides.liveournal.com

http://weddingsbyashlee.blogspot.com

http://funweddings.blogspot.com

http://merrybrides.blogspot.com

Planning Barbie's Wedding Wasn't This Stressful!

2008-01-31T15:52:00.000-05:00

By Ciara Daykin

The more you dive into planning your perfect wedding the faster and faster time seems to be flying by. Before you know it you'll be making your grand entrance and then at the blink of an eye the wedding cake will be merely a pile of crumbs on your plate, and the shoes you shopped painstakingly for will be tossed in a box.

Your wedding day is THE DAY that means so much to you. You have so many emotions surrounding this event... love, excitement, joy, jitters, elation. Are you confused? Feeling overwhelmed?

Bridal Blues

Brides often experience post wedding blues. It's hard to explain the feeling but it definitely comes. I know I got it after my wedding was over. But it didn't mean I wasn't absolutely thrilled to be married, I was just sad because my wedding was over (and as you probably know by now, I really love weddings). The day you imagined for so long, and spent at least the last year of your life planning is all of a sudden OVER. Now your other girlfriends are celebrating their engagements and you're not "the bride" anymore. The droves of friends and family that were suffocating you all went home and it's finally just you and your new husband. But you keep reflecting on your wedding, was it what you had hoped it to be? Did your details dazzle??

Getting married is a BIG DEAL! Don't let anyone tell you it's not. Regardless of whether or not you and your honey have lived together, getting married is a big life change for any woman. Hence the reason we all feel the need to throw a lavish party. You need to celebrate this life change!

EVEN BARBIE NEEDED A LITTLE GUIDANCE

Sheryl Paul is a bridal counselor (who knew there was such a thing!) and the author of The Conscious Bride. Sheryl sums it up best when she says:

"...it has become something of a taboo in our culture to utter the words "grief" and "wedding" in the same breath. Yet how could grief and fear not be a part of this transition?! We have the bride and groom letting go of their singlehood and stepping into one of the biggest commitments of their lives; we have the mothers of the bride and groom letting go of their "little ones" and possibly facing their own disappointments about their wedding or marriage; and we have girlfriends freaking out about panty hose color when really they're scared about losing, at least temporarily, their lifelong friend. In short, a wedding, as the rite of passage that it is, involves a loss and a gain, a death and a birth, an ending and a beginning."

This book is a must read for all brides to be. It will really help you to understand that you are going through a big life change and that everyone around you is affected by your transition as well. This book will give you a lot of perspective and you'll finally realize why the little things, like the perfect shade of red for your bridesmaid dresses, are so darn important to you!

Bridal Advice:

Pick up a book that is going to nurture your bridal heart. It doesn't have to be this book, although I really do recommend it. As an expert wedding planner, the most important part of my job is helping my clients plan each detail of their wedding so that the climax of their emotional journey is truly the celebration that they deserve it to be.

Love and Bridal Bliss,

Ciara Daykin

Additional Wedding Reading Sites
http://www.merrybrides.livejournal.com
http://www.funweddings.blogspot.com
http://www.merrybrides.blog.com

Ciara Daykin is Calgary's premiere Wedding Choreographer. Brides wanting a dazzling, dashing, dream-filled wedding turn to Ciara for all their wedding planning needs. Ciara is a proud member of the Association of Bridal Consultants.
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Email: info@fireflyoccasions.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ciara_Daykin