Merry Brides

merrybrides @ 2008-06-21T18:12:00

2008-07-07T22:14:40Z

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!)

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MerryBrides
Fun Weddings
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The Bride Isn't Shy Anymore!

2008-03-28T18:47:00Z

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!

What You Never Knew About Traditional Irish Weddings

2008-02-05T17:26:48Z

By Gregg Hall

The distinctive traditions like Claddagh Rings, superstitions, a special toast, as well as kilts and bagpipes make it really easy to distinguish an Irish wedding from the wedding celebrations of other countries. Let's take a close look at some of these unique components in the Irish wedding.

One of the most unique of all is the Claddagh ring, a traditional Irish ring made to resemble a pair of hands holding a heart with a crown. According to tradition, these rings must be passed down from mother to daughter and since they are intended to be passed down through many generations it is considered improper to purchase one of these rings on your own. There is also a tradition that states how the ring is supposed to be worn. If someone is engaged, the ring is to be worn with the tips of the crown facing outward towards the fingertips. Someone who is not romantically involved would wear the ring in the outward position, meaning that the tips of the crown are pointing to the wrist.

Some of the other unique aspects of traditional Irish weddings are the strange superstitions that surround them. Although a rainy or overcast day is really unwanted at any wedding, it is even less desirable at an Irish celebration because according to tradition the sun must shine down on the bride so that the couple will be blessed with good luck. The Irish are very superstitious people; another sign of good luck for a new couple is the sound of a cuckoo or the sight of three magpies. When it comes to wishing the couple well and congratulating them it is bad luck for a female to be the first one to offer congratulations to the bride. This is why a relative or close friend of the Groom will always be sure that he is first.

No celebration in Ireland would be the same without the sound of Bagpipes and the presence of kilts. By tradition it is customary for the pipes to be played by family and friends of the couple as they walk into the church and also to the reception. In addition, these people who have brought their own bagpipes may also continue to play the pipes for dancing. It is a great opportunity for these individuals to dress in traditional kilts creating a truly distinctive occasion.

Superstitions a play a large role in a traditional Irish wedding and many of the traditional superstitions relate to objects or occurrences that are thought to bring the couple good luck. These events are festive celebrations that involve family, friends, lots of food and great music.

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Florida. Find more about Ireland and Irish Gifts Online at http://www.uniqueirishgifts.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gregg_Hall

Additional Wedding Planning Advice

http://merrybrides.livejournal.com

http://funweddings.blogspot.com

http://windsor.weddingwindow.com

http://weddingsbyashlee.com

http://funweddings.blog.com

Relationship Healing - Checklist for Handling Passive Aggressives

2008-02-05T15:21:28Z

By Lynn Marie Sager

Meet the SHELLFISH - Shellfish either find sharing pointless and uncomfortable, so they never say anything; or they are being passive-aggressive and are withdrawing their responses in order to teach you some lesson and force you to change. Silence is not necessarily a bad thing, until you have to work with them and you need them to contribute some information. Not to worry, you can use their own uncomfortable silences to encourage them to share. Here's how you handle Shellfish:

_____1. If you need Shellfish to open up, you must make their staying silent more uncomfortable than communicating with you.

_____2. Meet with them alone and tell them exactly what you want to discuss.

_____3. Ask an open-ended question to get them talking. An open-ended question is any question that cannot be answered with a yes, or a no. The best open-ended questions usually begin with who, what, when, where, why and how.

_____4. Once you have asked your question, keep quiet and wait for the answer. Use a friendly, silent stare to show them you expect a response and are willing to wait until you get one. If they still don't answer, or if they give you an unsatisfactory answer, you can ask another open-ended question designed to clarify what you want to know. Then, wait again. Above all, do not keep talking. Shellfish feed off your need to fill any gaps of awkward silence.

_____5. If they still don't open up, you can adjourn the meeting to a later time. But before letting them off the hook, always set the time for the next meeting. Make it clear that you expect them to be ready to discuss everything at the next meeting. Try to show them how the information will be used to their benefit. Don't let them think, for one instant, that you will let them get away with not providing the information that you need.

_____6. Shellfish are counting on your inability to wait them out. Once they see that you are willing to wait as long as it takes, they will usually open up in order to get you off their back.

_____7. If you are dealing with a passive-aggressive Shellfish-someone who is purposefully not communicating with you in order to punish you for some perceived wrong-then once they do begin to speak, they will attempt to tell you what you did wrong and how you need to change your behavior. At this point, you should listen to them and question them. However, you should not argue with them, you should not agree with them, and you should not apologize for your behavior-even if they are correct about your behavior needing to change. If you do, you will be rewarding them for the very passive-aggressive behavior that you are trying to correct.

_____8. Respond to everything that they say about you with open-ended questions. For example, if they say that they were hurt by something you did, then gently ask, "Why didn't you tell me when it happened?" Use your open ended questions to make them face their own passive-aggressive behavior.

The most important thing, while dealing with any problem behavioral type, is to not let their behavior pull you off course. In other words, don't let them pull you into inattentive, erupting, pessimistic, defensive, complaining, or passive aggressive behavior. Remember that these people act the way they do because their actions have worked for them in the past. You can't change their actions, so your best choice is to make their actions ineffective on you. Once they notice that their tactics don't work on you, they will hesitate before using them on you again. And with some people, the best that you can achieve is not allowing them to swamp your boat.

Sadly, most of the stress in our lives comes from extended interactions with negative and unhappy people. Certain people have the ability to make you tired, angry and frustrated if you have to spend any time with them at all. Moreover, researchers have discovered that the same "ten behavioral types" keep showing up to drive you crazy. To read more about the terrible-ten, you can visit http://www.navigatinglife.org and click on the Galley where you will find a shortcut to "Coping with Difficult People."

RECOMMENDED READING

Living with the Passive-Aggressive Man

Addidtional Wedding Planning Advice

http://merrybrides.livejournal.com

http://funweddings.blogspot.com

http://windsor.weddingwindow.com

http://merrybrides.blogspot.com

Wedding Day Meal Options

2008-02-05T04:19:54Z

Wedding Day Meal Options

(MS) - One of the biggest decisions a couple has to make when planning a wedding concerns how to feed the guests. This boils down to two choices: a sit down meal or a buffet style serving. Each has their ups and downs, and which route to take typically depends on a number of factors.

· Degree of formality: Formal weddings often call for a sit-down meal, as it's generally viewed as more elegant. But this doesn't exclude the buffet- style option from formal weddings. At more laid back, but still formal, weddings a buffet-style meal is perfectly acceptable. For weddings that aren't as formal, it's generally best (and less expensive) to offer a buffet style meal.

· The guest list: The global nature of the world today means friends and family are spread out more than ever. The guest lists at many weddings are increasingly looking like a United Nations summit, with attendees coming from all over the map. If a wedding guest list features many guests who have flown or traveled from afar, it might be more appropriate to offer a more relaxed, sit down meal.

The age of guests should be considered as well before deciding on a meal option. If there will be lots of elderly people or even guests with young children, it's probably easier on them to offer a sit down meal. For weddings that boast a particularly young guest list, a buffet style might encourage more mingling and allow those guests to meet one another a lot easier than a sit down meal would.

· Budget: Buffet-style meals are generally less expensive, but this isn't always the case. Some think a sit-down meal will cost more because a wait staff is required to serve the food and drinks. While this is true to an extent, buffet-style meals still require a staff on hand to replace food that has run out. In addition, the time of day of the reception plays a role as well. For example, a buffet-style lunch will not be nearly as expensive as a buffet-style dinner. In general, though, a buffet at a wedding is almost always more budget-friendly than a sit down, typically costing far less per plate.

· Flexibility: Guest lists are often unique, with each guest having particular preferences when it comes to food. This makes buffets an especially attractive option. Sit down meals can be very limiting, which won't bode well for picky eaters. A buffet, however, offers many selections, and chances are even the pickiest of eaters will find something they can devour.

Recommended Reading

Wedding Menus

Addition Wedding Planning Advice
http://merrybrides.livejournal.com
http://funweddings.blog.com
http://windsor.weddingwindow.com
http://weddingsbyashlee.blogspot.com

Discussing Finances and Important Step for Newlyweds

2008-02-01T12:46:21Z

(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

Finding the Best Caterer

2008-01-22T20:05:50Z

Author: Kathleen

Finding the best caterer is one of the most important parts of wedding planning. Recommendations from family, friends and co-workers are a good place to start. Then select a minimum of 5 to 6 caterers that you would like to interview.

A good place to start is to find their cuisine specialties. A caterer who specializes in Italian cooking may not be the best with an all Asian cuisine menu. Is he/she flexible enough to adapt to your needs? If the bride and groom, for example, are health conscious, can a large variety of pasta and vegetarian entrees be served? These interviews will help determine which caterer is the most professional, enthusiastic and experienced in their field.

Asking for pictures of past wedding receptions and a list of satisfied customers will also help your determination. Call the names on the list, making sure to ask if there were any problems, or food and service that was less than satisfactory. Look for attractive and creative buffet designs and table arrangements in the photos of recent events.

The ideal caterer will be able to offer you the following:

· Information about licenses, health permits, and insurance

· Written contract and guarantee

· A fixed price not subject to change

· Deposit and final payment dates

· Terms for refunds/postponement/cancellation

· Food tastings

· Cost of bartender, corkage fees, and liquor

· Cost-per-person of a buffet compared to a sit-down dinner

· Information about the number of staff, gratuities, and overtime charges

· Providing for the wedding cake

· Recommending other wedding related professionals

You can find more information about catering online. At http://www.findcatering.com/, you will find a directory of major cities in the United States. Click on the appropriate city and you will find information on local catering companies. Posting a request on a bridal forum may also give you advice about reputable caterers in your area.

Fun Links Spotlight:

Wedding Window

Don't order Wedding Invitations before checking InvitationConsultants.com.

Additional Wedding Advice:

http://merrybrides.livejournal.com

http://merrybrides.blogspot.com

http://funweddings.blog.com

http://weddingsbyashlee.blogspot.com

Kathleen Terrana is the owner of Beautiful Bridal specializing in discount tiaras, veils and bridal jewelry. This article is free for republishing Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_114651_41.html

Wedding Dresses - How to Shop for your Wedding Dress

2008-01-20T04:13:57Z

Author: Cori Locklin

You have done the research. You're an expert on ballgown silhouettes and sweetheart necklines. Now the time has finally arrived wedding dress shopping day! But like the rest of the wedding planning process, shopping for a wedding dress is slightly more complex than shopping for your basic pair of slacks. Know what to expect before you hit the stores! First, you must decide where you are going to shop; here are the most common options:

Independently Owned Full Service Bridal Shops

These stores offer a full range of services for the bride and the wedding party, with designers and prices ranging from moderate to high-end. While off-the-rack is possible, these stores typically special-order wedding gowns for brides and attendants, so you should be prepared to wait a few months for your gown to arrive. You will mostly likely be able to purchase all of your bridal accessories, such as shoes, veils, undergarments and jewelry, and an in-store seamstress will consult with you on custom alterations.

Couture Bridal Shops

Couture bridal shops represent a subsection of independently owned full service bridal shops. Offering the same range of services, they carry exclusive designer labels at higher-end prices. These bridal boutiques are usually found in major cities.

Department Stores

Department stores such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman and JC Penny offer wedding gowns, while others such as Lord & Taylor and Hecht's only offer bridesmaid dresses. These gowns are usually bought off-the-rack; however, your wedding dress may be specially ordered from another store if your size is not in stock. Most of these stores offer in-house alterations.

Discount Bridal Outlets

Discount bridal outlets offer a mix of discontinued national brands and privately labeled merchandise at reduced prices. While you will not find the same level of service found at privately owned bridal shops, you may be able to find the designer wedding dress of your dreams at an affordable price. Dresses are bought off-the-rack, so you may take the gown home the day your purchase it. Since these stores typically do not offer on-site alterations, make sure you can find a trusted seamstress.

Nationwide Bridal Chain Stores

Bridal chain stores manufacture, import, and sell their own private label wedding gowns. While the style selection is more limited than in other types of stores, the prices are usually lower. Be prepared for a lower level of service and little sales assistance, but the ability to buy off the rack at a reasonable price can be a good option for short engagements.

Custom Gown Designers

For a one-of-a-kind wedding gown, you can collaborate with a custom gown designer to specially create a wedding dress just for you. You can find such gown designers in most major cities. Be sure to select a designer whose vision you appreciate and trust.

What to expect once you're in the shop:

� Make an appointment, and, if possible, try to shop during a weekday. You will receive more attentive service if your sales associate can dedicate his/her time especially for you.

� Consider bringing the lingerie that you will wear at the wedding. This will help you determine exactly how the wedding dress will look and feel on the big day.

� Bring someone with you whose opinion you respect and trust, but avoid bringing an entire brigade of "experts." Too many opinions will distract you.

� Many bridal boutiques will not simply allow you to browse through the selection of wedding dresses; rather they will bring gowns to you one at a time. At these boutiques, a sales associate will sit down with you to discuss your style and will bring you dresses that reflect your vision.

� That said, allow them to bring you many styles. While you may have an idea of what you want, you never know what looks best on your body style until you try it.

� Most likely, you will not try on dresses in your actual size. Stores typically carry sample sizes (8-10), and the sales associate will pin it to your body.

� Remember that you will have to be fitted - up to 3 times - before your wedding dress fits perfectly. If the store has an in-house seamstress, ask for an alterations estimate.

� Wedding dresses tend to run small, so be prepared to order a size that is larger than you normally wear.

� Go with your gut! If you need to be convinced that a wedding dress looks good on you, it's probably not "the one."

� If there is a specific feature you want changed, you can usually request it. Keep in mind that any design changes will increase the cost of the wedding gown.

� When determining the cost of your wedding dress, remember to factor in the cost for the veil, which can run up to $500 and beyond, and other accessories such as shoes, headpiece etc.

� Sleep on it. Most stores have a no return policy, so you need to be sure before making your final decision.

� Once you have found "the dress" and made your final decision, you will usually pay a 50% deposit on the dress.

� Afterwards - the store will take your measurements to order size - don't be tempted to order one too small in hopes of losing weight.

� Remember that the dress usually takes a few months to be made, so make sure you leave enough time for alterations.

My Favorite Wedding Resouces:

Create your own Wedding Website!

Buy Bridal Lingerie at HerRoom.com

Wedding Dress Discount- Learn how you can get 75% off your wedding dress.
More Great Wedding Advice articles
Merry Brides
Ultimate Brides
Fun Weddings
Weddings by Ashlee

For a complete guide to creating an elegant and memorable wedding celebration, visit http://www.elegala.com/, your ultimate wedding planning resource.

This article is free for republishing Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_63129_41.html
Cori Locklin is editor-in-chief for Elegala.com and Elegala Magazine (and a recent bride!). Elegala is a new wedding planning resource offering a comprehensive portfolio of superior wedding reception sites and their recommended vendors, along with planning articles, expert advice, checklists and photo galleries. http://www.elegala.com

Interfaith Marriage - How to Plan an Interfaith Wedding Ceremony

2007-09-06T00:23:45Z

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!

Useful Links:

Dream Honeymoons; Destination Weddings!

Top 10 Vacation Destinations!

Great Honeymoon Cruise Deals

More Great Wedding Advice

Fun Weddings
Merry Brides
Ashlee Weddings
Wedding Journal

For more ideas and inspiration for your wedding ceremony, visit Elegala.com's complete wedding ceremony planning guide. Cori Locklin is editor-in-chief for Elegala.com and Elegala Magazine. Elegala is a new wedding planning resource offering the most comprehensive portfolio of superior wedding reception sites and wedding services, along with planning tips, photo galleries and checklists to keep brides in-the-know on today's wedding trends and styles. 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

A Stress-Free Guide to Seating Plans

2007-07-13T10:47:02Z

Do you enjoy puzzles? Well, when you engage in the task of creating seating plans, that's just what you'll be doing - tackling a puzzle. Only you won't get a finished picture after fitting all the pieces into place. Rather, you'll be rewarded with a wedding reception that goes smoothly for most involved. Follow an organized plan to make easier work of a challenging task.

The first thing you should do once you have the final head count for your reception is to make a seating chart. Draw large circles to represent the tables, dance floor, musical entertainment and entrances. (Or get a preprinted seating chart from your reception hall). Don't forget to find out how many guests can fit at each table. Then write everyone's name on a card or sticky note so you can play "musical chairs."

Another option is to go high-tech. There are now wedding-planning software packages that have a seating-arrangement tool. Store guests names and digitally manipulate where they will be seated.

In general, place guests in spots that suit them. Your friends will want to be near the band, bar or dance floor. Keep the elderly away from the band or DJ's speakers. Family and friends should be closest to your table. Acquaintances and your parents' friends should be placed farther away. Separate people who do not get along. Place handicapped guests in easily accessible spots that are close to exits.

As the happy couple, you have a few seating options. You can sit at a head table or dais, which is traditionally long and straight and faces the reception tables. Arrangement at the table can vary. The bride and groom usually sit front and center, with the maid of honor on the groom's left and the best man on the bride's right. The other attendants are seated male and female.

Still, you can stray from the norm. You can have the wedding party and their dates sit at one table while you and your new spouse sit at a table for two at the front of the room. You can also sit at a table with only the maid of honor, best man and their dates. Or you can sit at a table with your parents. Do whatever fits your style and makes you most comfortable.

Parent seating is flexible, too. Both the bride's and groom's parents generally sit together near the newlyweds. Siblings not in the wedding, grandparents and other relatives may also sit nearby. If your parents are divorced or don't get along, separate them. Your mother and her guests can sit at one table and your father can have his own table on the other side of the room. If you're unsure how to seat them, consult both your parents and in-laws to see what would they would prefer.

For family seating, it seems natural to sit people of the same side of the family together to guarantee that they'll be comfortable. Or mix and match: Consider sitting the bride's cousins with the groom's cousins so they can get to know each other. Put family members with a history of squabbles on opposite sides of the dance floor - you'll be happier for it.

Seating friends allows you more creativity. You can sit people who know each other together or you can play matchmaker by seating singles who have never met at the same table. Some opt for "singles" and "couples" tables, while others feel this seating creates awkwardness. Again, don't forget about people who don't get along. If your two college buddies aren't on speaking terms, now isn't the time to try to patch things up by seating them at the same table.

Sometimes, there are just some people who don't fit anywhere - your friend from camp, your boss whom you didn't think would show. Whatever the case may be, avoid seating all the random guests at one table; they'll know they're the misfits. Get creative. Consider ages, interests and marital status.

Now that you have everyone in place, identify each table. You can keep it simple with numbers or letters, or identify tables by themes or colors. Guests' names and their table assignments should be placed on place cards (Consider having a calligrapher write these cards, or print them on your computer.). Set them in alphabetical order on a table near the entrance.

You can't please everyone with the seating assignments, but you can try your best to make everyone enjoy hearing the words, "Please be seated."

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Weddings: Etiquette and Customs

2007-07-10T10:20:47Z

(CL) - Wedding ceremonies may be civil or religious rites. The civil rite generally implies a simpler event, while the religious rite is governed by more traditional rules.

Precise traditions exist regarding the sharing of expenses. Of course, if Cinderella marries a member of the Rockefeller clan (or vice versa), the Rockefellers will no doubt undertake the higher share (if not the entire share) of expenses.

Bride's family expenses: The brides' family is responsible for paying for the wedding invitations, the bride's trousseau and dress, reception and ceremony expenses, the guest party favors, and the automobile and chauffeur (which does not necessarily need to be an expensive limousine service. he may just be an uncle driving his fancy car). If the wedding ceremony is a religious rite, the bride's family's expenses will also include church flowers and decorations, music, bridesmaid and flower girl dresses, ring bearer suits, and the fee for the minister or officiant of the ceremony.

Groom's family expenses: The groom's family is responsible for paying for the rings, the bride's bouquet, the honeymoon, and the future house furnishings.

Wedding invitations: Wedding invitations should be sent approximately one month before the wedding. The bride and groom, with their respective families, should prepare the guest list. In general, the standard layout is as follows: on the left the bride's parents announce their daughter's wedding, while on the right the groom's parents announce their son's wedding. In addition, envelopes should be handwritten.

If the bride and groom are not that young, they can announce their wedding themselves.

Ceremony: The groom's family sits to the right, and the bride's family to the left. Friends may sit wherever they like. The groom should arrive at least 20 minutes before the ceremony begins, and should await the arrival of his bride next to the officiant (minister, justice of the peace, etc.). The groom's attendants stand to the left, and the bride's attendants stand to the right. The bride arrives accompanied by her father and sits to the groom's right.

What the bride and groom should wear: If the wedding ceremony takes place in a church, tradition demands that the bride be dressed in white and the groom in a classic tight. If the ceremony is not formal, he may wear a dark suit. If the groom is in the military, he may wear his uniform. The bride may choose a romantic, practical, or sophisticated style, but whatever the style, if she does not wear a veil, she must at least have an elegant hairstyle, with flowers or some other sort of special embellishment.

What the guests should wear: Men should ware a dark suit. Women should wear something according to the season, either a fine dress or an elegant tailleur. There are no specific rules regarding guest attire. The best advice is to stay within the bounds of good taste and common sense. Of course, female guests should avoid wearing white in order not to compete with the traditional bride. Hats are allowed, but it is advisable not to overdo jewelry (in other words, you do not want to look like a Christmas tree). In addition, it is best to avoid provocative cleavage, even if the wedding is held in the afternoon.

Reception: A wedding reception celebrated in a country house after a ceremony held in the town's church is charming and romantic, but not always possible. In general, the reception takes place in a hotel reception room or at a restaurant. The reception can also take place at the bride's home if it can accommodate all the guests. Depending on the hour of the reception, breakfast or lunch should be offered. These days, the breakfast-lunch combination-or brunch-is also very trendy. Afternoon and evening weddings are generally more formal and are followed by receptions held at more elegant venues, with a sophisticated menu. Food selection is purely subjective. But regardless of the wedding hour or style, the champagne and the wedding cake should not be left out.

Unforeseen events: It sometimes happens that, after sending out all the invitations, the bride and groom decide not to get married after all or decide to change the date of the ceremony. In either event, if the invitation has been sent only to a few close friends, they may be notified by phone. The mother or a friend can be very helpful with this task. If, however, the guest list is extensive, a note or an e-mail message should be sent immediately. If the wedding is cancelled indefinitely, any gifts already received should be immediately returned to the guests. However, the bride and groom are not obliged to give an explanation for their decision or to justify their actions. People's fantasy will take care of looking for a reason.

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The Best Dressed Wedding Invitation

2007-06-29T20:18:42Z

Top 10 Red Carpet Mailing Tips

(MS) - This wedding season, there is good news for couples-to-be and wedding planners. The cost of postage for a 2-ounce wedding invitation has gone down from 63 cents to 58 cents. Here are some other postage perks: tips and pointers for making sure that wedding invitations - and associated save-the-date cards, response cards, wedding announcements and thank-you notes - get to recipients on time, and are fun and memorable, too.

· "Accessorize" your correspondence by using the new love stamps, available June 27. Featuring vines that form the shape of a heart, these stamps were designed especially for mailing wedding invitations and RSVPs and are available in both the 2-ounce (58 cents) and the 1-ounce (41 cents) First-Class postage rate denominations.

Stamps are an inexpensive way to add color to an invitation and you can also use them to decorate an envelope, even on the flap (where they do not count toward required postage). Star Wars stamps issued this year may be a fun way to speed your response cards back to you.

· Mail your invitations four to six weeks before the wedding and make sure the return address is complete and legible.

· Whether you dress your Wedding invitation in a traditional style or use more flamboyant papers and embellished envelopes, take care with the most important accessory: the address. Provide a complete address, including apartment number, on each envelope. Confirm ZIP Codes easily at www.usps.com by clicking on Find a ZIP Code on the navigation bar.

· For other postal needs and assistance, go to the Postal Service Web site, www.usps.com. There you can order stamps, view and purchase related postal products, look up ZIP Codes instantly, learn about mailing options, and calculate postage.

· Affix your stamps securely, but do not put tape over the stamp(s) - this invalidates the postage. If your envelope is textured or contains decorative fibers or floral inclusions, you may want to secure the postage using a glue stick.

· Or, prepare your invitations online and mail them through the Postal Service's NetPost Print and Mail Services - you'll save time and money.

· For save-the-date cards and thank-you notes, create customized postcards at www.usps.com/netpost. Postage is included in the price, and discounts are available with every mailing.

· The hottest trend is to use your own artwork or photograph on your thank-you notes. Customize the postage on thank-you cards with a first-peek picture from your wedding.

There are also options for family and friends who can't make the big day. Tell them about Net Post Gift Card, where from the convenience of their computer they can send greetings and a gift card from a wide choice of popular national retailers at denominations from $25 to $200.

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Wedding Flowers

2007-06-20T19:06:44Z

CL) - Some say that a wedding without flowers is like a birthday without a cake. Without a doubt, flowers frame and enhance a marriage celebration in a very special way. But not everybody thinks this way, and many couples prefer to save on the cost of flowers and invest that money in the honeymoon. It is a question of taste or-in some cases-of limited budget.

Sometimes people try to save some money by buying the flowers, preparing the flower arrangements, and decorating the church and reception area by themselves. Although not a bad idea, it is simply not worth the risk for such a special and memorable event as a wedding.

It is highly advisable that a professional florist be hired to prepare the flower arrangements and decorate according to his or her judgment. Remember that flowers are delicate and demand certain conditions in order to remain fresh. Professional florists have the necessary equipment for this task.

In order for your flowers to stay fresh, they must be prepared on the day of the wedding. Will you and your family have the adequate time to carry out all this heavy work, and also make the bride look beautiful, radiant, and refreshed for the wedding? Almost certainly not, and trying to achieve this may turn into a nightmare and lead to bad memories of this unique day in your life. The only exception might be if the flower arrangements are so simple that they do not require professional labor.

Once you decide to hire a florist, there is a series of steps to be followed before dealing with him or her. The florist must be hired and notified at least four months before the wedding in order to ensure that he or she is available on the wedding day, as well as to give you enough time to discuss the details. Here are some timely, practical, and useful tips for making this important decision:

· If you are planning a wedding on a budget, you should get several estimates or quotes from various suppliers, including a breakdown of what items are included in the cost. There are many items that, although part of the decoration, do not belong to the bride and groom once the event has finished, such as candlesticks, vases, amphoras, tablecloths, and cutlery, among other things. Decorators often lend these items, or they may rent them. Therefore, if the bride and groom want their guests to be able take the centerpiece or flower arrangement home with them, they should make sure that they will not have to pay an additional amount later on.

· Select the florist through friends or family references.

· If you do not know the florist and do not have any references, you should ask for samples with pictures of decorations and flower arrangements from previous weddings. This will help you judge the type of work of which the supplier is capable, and samples will reveal his or her taste, talent, and-even more importantly-the quality of his or her work.

· In order to get a better picture, you should ask for the contact information of other couples who have hired this florist before. This will enable you to get references from a closer, more direct source.

· Most florists are willing to do some practice floral arrangements before the wedding, according to the bride and groom's taste and the details agreed upon.

· Do not forget to ask for recommendations regarding color combinations and flower selection. Remember that many flowers are seasonal and often more expensive if purchased outside their season.

Likewise, try to select flowers that tend to stay fresh and attractive longer

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merrybrides @ 2007-06-19T16:06:00

2007-06-19T20:07:18Z

By: John Morris

Whether you are looking for a quiet, laid-back stay or an action-packed vacation, chances are you will find a destination that suits the desires of you and your partner for a romantic honeymoon in the United States.

1. Hawaii

With its pristine beaches, tropical scenery and wide variety of foods, activities and tourist spots to keep you busy, Hawaii is a popular choice for countless honeymooners from around the world. Hawaii offers a number of tourism options for the various types of guests it hosts each year. Some visitors might opt to rent a car or take a guided tour around the island they are staying on. By exploring the islands of Hawaii, guests will enjoy discovering serene waterfalls and spectacular views of the beautiful beaches that lace the outskirts of the islands. Perhaps one of the most romantic Hawaiian pastimes comes in the form of watching a sunset with your new spouse. For the active couple, Hawaii offers a number of top golf courses that honeymooners can enjoy. One of the more popular activities is to attend a Hawaiian luau.

2. Niagara Falls

Couples can register to get a guided boat cruise around the falls. For a fun night out, honeymooners can visit Casino Niagara, conveniently located right across from Niagara Falls. For honeymooners who enjoy day trips the scenic Catskill Mountains are not located far from the falls. There are two "sides" of the falls, the US side and the Canadian side. The Canadian site give you a much better view of the falls so don't forget your Passports!

3. Florida

Vacations in Florida are ideal for honeymooners. Disney World offers special honeymoon vacation packages to cater to those looking for a romantic getaway. There are even a number of Disney resorts that attract couples rather than families. If theme parks are not your cup of tea, consider a trip further south to Key West or Miami. These areas offer classy resorts, sprawling beaches, and plenty of attractions that will keep both you and your significant other happily busy.

4. Las Vegas

If you have money to blow and you're feeling lucky, Las Vegas is the place for you. In addition to gambling, you will find shopping, nightlife, and even a short drive to the Grand Canyon where you can sit in your car and look out over the moon.

5. California

California here I come! There is a reason the Beachboys wrote so many songs about the California coast. There are so many potential honeymoon destinations it's hard to name them all. If you want a more quiet honeymoon you can visit Carmel or Santa Barbra. If you want a more adventurous honey moon you can visit the L.A. area where you can visit Universal Studios, Disney Land, Knotts Berry Farm and Magic Mountain.

Fun Travel Links:

Additional Advice: http://funweddings.blogspot.com, http://merrybrides.blogspot.com http://merrybrides.livejournal.com, http://weddingsbyashlee.blogspot.com

About the Author: For more great honeymoon related articles and resources check out http://123honeymoons.info

Choosing a Wedding Gown to Flatter Your Figure

2007-06-19T17:14:21Z

Shopping for your wedding dress can start out as one of the most exciting parts of planning a wedding but can quickly turn into one of the most frustrating experiences of your life.

When shopping for your dress keep in mind that different styles can help you create a thinner, heavier, taller or shorter look. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect dress to flatter you figure.

Short Thin Figure

Look for a shirtwaist or natural waist style dress with a bouffant skirt. This style will make you look taller with a fuller figure.
Your best fabric choices are chiffon, velvet, lace, and schiffli net

Short Heavy Figure

A Princess or A-line style dress will look great on you.
To look taller and thinner you should avoid any clingy knit fabrics.
Your best fabric choice is Chiffon because it creates a floating effect and will camouflage your weight.

Tall Thin Figure

A shirtwaist or a natural waist style dress with a full skirt will look nice on you.
If you want to appear shorter, look for a dress with tiers or flounces.
The best fabrics for you are satin and lace.

Tall Heavy Figure

A Princess or A-line dress is a good choice as it will slim your figure.
Your best fabric choices are satin and lace

Remember you are perfect just the size you are. It's a great idea to order the dress in the size you are now. If you lose a few pounds before your wedding, great! Just remember, it is easier to have a dress taken in than have an inch or two added.

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

Wedding Planning Is Up To You

2007-06-18T16:54:34Z

By Sher

Deciding the menu is a pretty simple affair. Once you’ve chosen your menu items, you can move on to organizing the wedding menu. By organizing I mean planning how people will sit, what your tables will look like, types of glasses. All the fine details.

Now don’t let this stress you out – it actually can be a lot of fun! Here’s some tips to get you on the right track. These tips assume you are not having your meal catered and are doing all your own planning.

Decide what time you are going to have your meal at. This will tie to the time of your wedding to some degree. If you are getting married in the morning are you having lunch, brunch, or a mid afternoon meal. Afternoon wedding, are you having a super time meal, a later evening meal.

Are you going to rent your dishes? Borrow from family? Use disposable plates? Same goes for glassware and flatware. If you are having a smaller wedding you can often get good pricing on sets at discount department stores.

If you are purchasing your dishes, what is your theme? Color? Style?

What type of glasses are you going to use? Wine glasses for certain, what about coffee cups, water glasses. Again either borrow or visit a discount department store.

I recommend renting your dishes, flatware, and glasses from a catering company. The prices is usually very nominal. Everything matches, they deliver the clean dishes, after your meal you simply put the dirty dishes in the containers supplied, they pick them up and take care of cleaning them.

If you supply your own dishes, then somebody has to be prepared to do clean up. Renting dishes is simple, affordable, and lets your guests focus on enjoying your wedding.

You will also need to decide what the theme for your tables will be, what type of flowers you will use and whether you will get locally grown flowers or purchase from a florist. If you choose flowers in season in your local area you can make beautiful flower arrangements for a fraction of the cost.

What about your tables and chairs? Does the hall or facility you’ve rented provide them? If yes what do the charge. If they do not, then you’ll need to contact someone who rents these items. If your wedding reception is small you may be able to borrow enough chairs and tables to accommodate your guests.

Tablecloths and table coverings – you’ll need to decide color and style. As well you’ll have to decide what type of decorating your going to do. Your decorating and colors will have a lot to do with your general wedding theme. Fun, romantic, tropical?

The quickest way to get organized is to grab some paper and a pencil. Draw a rough diagram of the room layout, then begin sketching in your tables, how you will seat people, where you want your flowers and decorations. Once you have a visual the rest will fall into place.

Ask some friends to give you a hand with decorating. Most halls will let you visit the day before to complete your decorating and set up. In fact, before you rent the hall make this a pre-requisite.

Most important! Enjoy the planning – this is your wedding, one of the biggest events of your life. There is no right or wrong, there is only what makes you happy. When your happy, your guests will relax and enjoy themselves.

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About the Author
Sher from Estate Jewelry International has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing fashion, jewelry, and wedding help. Please visit us at http://www.estatejewelryinternational.com/ Source: www.ArticleTrader.com

Officiant's Gratuity

2007-06-17T19:24:22Z

By WeddingSolutions.com

The officiant's gratuity is a discretionary amount of money given to the officiant.

Things To Consider: This amount should depend on your relationship with the officiant and the amount of time s/he has spent with you prior to the ceremony. The groom puts this fee in a sealed envelope and gives it to his best man or wedding consultant, who gives it to the officiant either before or immediately after the ceremony.

Fun Links

When should the Wedding Cake Be Cut?

2007-06-16T19:50:09Z

When should the cake be cut?

At a luncheon or a sit-down meal reception the cake should be cut just before dessert.

At a cocktail reception serve the cake right after all the guests have been greeted.

What type of knife do I use?

It is best to use a ribbon-tied silver cake knife. A cake knife engraved with your initials is a good choice. Some brides use the same cake knife used by her parents at their wedding.

Is there a special way to cut the cake?

Yes...the groom laces his right hand over the brides, and together they cut the bottom layer of the cake.

Do we have to feed each other cake?

Not absolutely necessary but it is a nice tradition you may want to follow. The sharing of the first slice of cake symbolizes the couples willingness to share their new life together.

Keep your dignity and do not smash the cake into each others faces'.

What happens after we feed each other cake?

The bride then slices several pieces of cake and serves them to her new in-laws. Then the groom slices the cake and serves the pieces to his new in-laws. After the in-laws are served, the cake is then taken to the kitchen by the catering staff to be sliced and served to the guests.

Why do Brides save the top tier of the cake?

According to an old custom, a bride is supposed to save the top tier of her wedding cake and eat it on the couple's first anniversary. If you want to save your cake, have the caterer carefully wrap it so it is airtight and freeze as soon as possible.

What happens to the leftover wedding cake?

You can ask the caterer to pack slices of any extra wedding cake in small boxes to be sent home with the guests.

Did you know that it is considered bad luck for a guest to leave a wedding reception without tasting the cake?

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Six Tips for a Great Coffee Wedding Favor

2007-06-16T19:37:00Z

By: Lisa Carter

A lot of people love coffee. For some individuals, mornings are simply not complete without a great steaming cup of aromatic and flavorful coffee. This is probably why coffee has now also invaded the wedding scene. If you’re also thinking of handing out coffee favors then take a look at these great tips for coming up with the perfect coffee wedding favor.

Study the Basics of Coffee

Coffee brands and blends were not created equal. Coffee fanatics among your guests would notice if your coffee wedding favor is not the best kind. Take time then to get to know basic details about coffee.

Your coffee wedding favor research should start with the beans. The two major beans are Arabica and Robusta. Arabica is more popular and reputedly more flavorful. Robusta however generally has more caffeine content and is cheaper. You can have ground coffee or coffee beans in your coffee wedding favor. From your coffee wedding favor bean inquiry you can move on to choosing among the many bean variations like Kona, Columbian, decaf, organic and many more. The most common choice is to have a coffee bean blend. There are also a great variety of flavors to choose from such as vanilla, chocolate, hazelnut, butter rum, cinnamon and Irish cream.

Sample the Merchandise

The best way to choose the right kind of coffee for your coffee wedding favor is to sample the different kinds of coffee yourself. Your coffee wedding favor should be able to speak well about your own personal taste and personality. If you are not confident about your choice, you can ask a group of friends to help you choose a good blend or flavor.

Be Creative with the Package

Most coffee favors are simple packs of coffee bean blends with the details of the event up front. You can however be more creative with your coffee wedding favor. You have the choice among mugs, tin cans and baskets to hold your coffee wedding favor. The advantage with these containers is that your guests can still have a useful reminder of your special day long after they have consumed their coffee giveaway.

Be Generously Sweet

A lot of coffee drinkers prefer to pair their cups of coffee with little sweet edibles. Generously add a few things in your wedding favor like homemade cookies or chocolate candies.

Add Some Great Accessories
You may include a personalized coffee favor accessory with your coffee pack instead of having a personalized container for your coffee wedding favor. Wrap a silver spoon or stirrer or a heart shaped coffee scoop in tulle and ribbons to add to your coffee pack.

Be Considerate of Others

It’s true that a lot of people really drink coffee but there are also some who prefer tea or do not drink coffee at all. Add a few items in your giveaway for your non coffee drinking guests. The most common options include tea and chocolate drinks. You should be careful though with how you pack your wedding favor. Include too many items and it may start to look like a grocery store goods giveaway.

Fun Links

Wedding Advice:

Merry Brides Sweetheart Weddings Wedding Planning Guide
Fun Weddings Weddings on a Budget Ashlee Wedding Window - Create your own Wedding Website
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Lisa Carter is an expert in wedding planning. Get her Coffee Wedding Favors here or visit her site at www.Your-Wedding-Plans.com for money-saving tips and other wedding favor ideas and other useful advise for your dream wedding

Checklist Of Flowers For Your Wedding Day

2007-06-16T17:53:17Z

By Dawn Dingus

Weddings and beautiful flowers go hand in hand. Fresh flowers, silk flowers, dried flowers and preserved flower arrangements alike require special preparations and planning. Whether you intend to hire a professional florist or make your own wedding floral arrangements, it is a good idea to create a checklist of flowers that you will need for your special day.

The following list includes flower arrangements for the wedding ceremony, wedding reception, bridal party members, family members and other individuals providing special services or assistance throughout your wedding day. Use the checklist below as a general guide to assist you in creating your own personalized checklist of flowers. Add or remove items from the list based on your wedding day needs. Creating wedding checklists well in advance will not only give you and/or your family time to plan and save money for expenses, but it will assist you in keeping your wedding plans organized and detailed. Once you have determined the number and different types of flower arrangements you will need, you can set your wedding flowers budget and begin researching different floral designs to coordinate with your wedding day theme.

Flowers for the Wedding Ceremony

Guest Book Table or Stand

Candelabras

Unity Candle Table or Stand

Church Pews (with or without pew bows)

Alter

Wedding Arch

Piano and/or Organ

Flowers for the Bridal Party, Family and Other Individuals

Bride's Bouquet

Bouquets for Maid of Honor and Bridesmaids

Flower Girl Basket and Flower Girl Crown/Hair Accessory
Corsages for Mothers and Grandmothers

Boutonniere for Groom

Boutonnieres for Best Man, Groomsmen, Ushers and Ring Bearer

Boutonnieres for Fathers and Grandfathers

Boutonniere for Minister/Officiant

Corsages or Boutonnieres for Pianist/Organist

Corsages or Boutonnieres for Wedding Coordinator

Corsages or Boutonnieres for those providing special services or assistance.

Flowers for the Wedding Reception

Candelabras

Chandeliers

Wedding Party Head Table

Guest Tables

Cake Table

Cake Knife and Cake Server

Buffet Table(s)

Other Food Tables

Gift Table

Lattice Partitions

Columns/Poles

Free-Standing Arrangements

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About the author: Dawn Dingus is an experienced wedding planner and content writer for SouthernCraftworks.com and PersonalizeYourGift.net. Shop at http://www.SouthernCraftworks.com for wedding accessories, bridal jewelry, personalized candles, keepsakes, favors and engraved gifts for all occasions.

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BARTENDING / BAR SET-UP FEE

2007-06-11T15:45:45Z

Article Source: Wedding Solutions

BARTENDING / BAR SET-UP FEE
Some reception sites and caterers charge an extra fee for bartending and for setting up the bar.

CORKAGE FEE
Many reception sites and caterers make money by marking up the food and alcohol they sell. You may wish to provide your own alcohol for several reasons. First, it is more cost effective. Second, you may want to serve an exotic wine or champagne that the reception site or caterer does not offer. In either case, and if your reception site or caterer allows it, be prepared to pay a corkage fee. This is the fee for each bottle brought into the reception and opened by a member of their staff.

Things To Consider:
You need to consider whether the expenses saved after paying the corkage fee justify the hassle and liability of bringing in your own alcohol.

FEE TO POUR COFFEE
In addition to the corkage and cake-cutting fees, some facilities also charge extra to pour coffee with the wedding cake.

Things To Consider:
Again, when comparing the cost of various reception sites, don't forget to add up all the extra miscellaneous costs, such as the fee for pouring coffee.

SERVICE PROVIDERS' MEALS

Things To Consider:
It is considered a courtesy to feed your photographer, videographer, and any other "service provider" at the reception. Check options and prices with your caterer or reception site manager. Make sure you allocate a place for your service providers to eat. You may want them to eat with your guests, or you may prefer setting a place outside the main room for them to eat. Your service providers may be more comfortable with the latter.

GRATUITY
It is customary to pay a gratuity fee to your caterer. The average gratuity is 15% to 18% of your food and beverage bill.

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Bridal Jewelry - Fulfilling a Wedding Tradition

2007-06-06T15:20:35Z

By L Hayes

If you looked at traditional weddings, whites and creams dominated the scene and you would always see the bride resplendent in white with jewelry to match. This is for traditional weddings, but of course even today, a lot of us like to uphold family tradition that gives a sense of continuity in weddings. Be it the wedding dress, the wedding trousseau, or the wedding jewelry, we like to be firmly rooted in tradition.

What is really interesting to note today is, even in modern times many of us honor our wedding traditions by wearing a piece that is handed down by someone in the family. Often times, a grandmother would give a bride her wedding jewelry such as a necklace, a bracelet and earrings. They would shimmer with a mix of iridescent mother-of-pearl and big white pearls with little diamonds encrusted on them. Brides would wear these for her wedding and preserve them for their daughter. Brides would find it hard to describe the feeling that these family heirlooms would give her on her wedding day! Nothing could compare to the fact that the women in the brides family, the ones you grew up with and admire, are with you. So, this was about wearing family keepsakes and the perfect way of paying your respects to elders generations of the family.

If you don’t have that option, wearing something new is obviously what you have to do. You will be amazed at the choices you have, considering the vast array of stores that you can find either near you or through the internet which brings the whole world near you. You will definitely find a sparkling something that will interest you and also fit within your budget. If possible, find something that will also compliment your bridesmaids jewelry.

A host of light-colored gemstones, precious and semi-precious, are quickly gaining center stage alongside diamonds. Even colored diamonds in various hues of rose, champagne and azure tones are becoming wedding ceremony favorites.

A much more practical solution for budget brides is to borrow jewelry. While this may be a strange option for brides who want to be dressed to the nines in things brand new, but this is an option you must consider if you are not one to spend thousands of dollars for certain accessories that they will never wear again. Borrow the jewelry for your nuptials by paying a small rental fee. Most jewelers will also ask for a refundable deposit for insurance purposes. You can always treat yourself to jewelry of your own tastes and preferences after the wedding, instead of being pressurized at the time you are already stressed about a million other choices.

Finally, whatever you decide, make sure the jewelry you choose is in keeping with the wedding dress, the ambiance, the time of the wedding reception, and the year your wedding will take place. Also, consider the location. The less, the better if you are getting married outdoors in the hot summer. Show your beauty with tasteful and limited jewelry, instead of going all blitz and bling. Wedding jewelry is not just something you wear for your wedding ceremony, but something that you will cherish and treasure all your life in remembrance of your special day.

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L Hayes is a wedding professional and owner of Wedding Favors Emporium. They carry an extensive line of unique wedding favors. They offer many popular gift ideas such as place card holders, silver and chrome favors, and bridesmaid gifts. For more information about discount wedding favors, wedding planning, or wedding reception ideas, visit their website.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=L_Hayes

Tips On Cutting Wedding Costs

2007-06-06T02:41:18Z

Tips On Cutting Wedding Costs

The most important thing you must consider when planning a wedding is your budget. With the following cost cutting tips you can have a beautiful wedding without going into debt.

1. Create your own invitations

With a little practice you can create professional looking invitations. Buy high quality blank invitation forms. Make sure to use a typeface that is formal, crisp and easy to read for professional-looking results.

2. Gowns

Save money on your Wedding gown and Bridesmaid dresses by shopping at a bridal discount outlets. If alterations are necessary, take the dresses to a local seamstress. If you need a bridal gown slip, rent it rather than buy it.

3. Limit your attendants to Maid/Matron of Honor and Best Man. You will save money on clothing, gifts, and food costs at the rehearsal dinner.

4. Get married in the morning: afternoon and evening weddings are more expensive.

5. For an indoor wedding consider having your reception at a restaurant. Most charge less than a hotel or country club. Plus restaurants do not charge room fees like many facilities.

6. Consider having your reception at a park or public garden rather than an expensive hall. Most public parks are free or charge a small fee.

7. Cut Reception Food Costs

Limit the number of guests to those you really want there. (Remember caterer's charge per person).

Forego the multi-course dinner in favor of a brunch, luncheon, a dessert reception, or even a cocktail party.

8. Cut Bar Reception Costs

Serve only beer, wine, and soft drinks. Do not offer mixed drinks. By eliminating mixed drinks you may be able to cut your bar bill in half.

Consider offering a full bar for the first hour or two and then switch to a cash bar. Do not have waiters/waitresses serve the guest drinks. If a people have to actually go get their own drinks, they will probably drink less, therefore saving you money.

9. Party Favors

You can save hundreds of dollars by eliminating the party favors. If you absolutely want favors, why not make your own? How about buying bags of Hershey kisses and wrapping a few into a small piece of organza cloth and tying it with a cute ribbon.

Forego the printed napkins and matches to save even more money. Also, do you really need a gold embossed guest book? Probably not! Why not purchase a nice guest book at your local stationery store.

10. Wedding Cake

Wedding cakes can be very expensive. To save money on your cake contact a nearby college that offers cooking classes for referrals. A recent Graduate can make you a gorgeous cake a lot cheaper than a professional baker.

To really save money on your cake you could consider using a display cake (A dummy Styrofoam cake) for the display table. A display cake will look exactly like a real cake and your guests would never know the difference. Since you do not have a real cake your caterer can serve guests slices of sheet cake which costs a fraction of the cost of wedding cake.

11. Music

Hire a DJ rather than a live band. If you want live music, visit the music department at your local college for referrals. There are many talented music students who would gladly play at your wedding.

12. Flowers

Why not make your own bouquet? Buy a pretty bouquet of flowers or pick wild flowers and tie them together with wire. Then wrap the wire with a pretty ribbon. (Hint: Roses are not good flowers for bouquets as they fall apart rather easily).

If you want to purchase a professional bouquet, remember to always use flowers in season to save money.

Rather than purchase expensive boutonnieres for the men, why not pin a single flower to the jacket lapel.

13. Table Displays

You do not need expensive flower table displays for your reception. Why not put pretty flowers in a small vase on each table. All the vases do not have to match. In fact, it can look striking if you use a different vase and flower on each table.

Rather than flowers, decorate each table with candles. Here are some tips:

Buy some candles and tie ribbons around them then slip a single flower inside the ribbon. Keep the ribbon long and let it cascade down to the table.

Put a couple of floating candles in a clear glass bowl along with a few fresh flower heads. You can buy a plant like a Chrysanthemum for a couple of dollars and cut the flowers off.

Votive candles on top of a mirror makes a romantic centerpiece for an evening reception.

14. Photographer

Hiring a professional photographer/videographer is very expensive. Consider asking a photographer friend to do the honors (Perhaps as a wedding present).

If you want professional photos, consider hiring a photographer for the formal shots of your ceremony only. Then place disposable cameras on every table. Not only will your guests have fun, but you'll get dozens of photographs as momentos at very little cost.

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Inexpensive Centerpiece Decorations

2007-06-06T02:19:06Z

When planning a wedding, most brides focus first on the church, lining it with flowers and ribbons. By the time costs for the wedding are taken care of many couple’s find that they are skimming close to their budget. It’s good know that the centerpiece decorations at your reception can not only be inexpensive, but tasteful and original.

Try this idea and score a perfect ten for creativity when planning your centerpiece decorations. Start by buying cute small frames as you see them on sale. Insert photos of you and your groom growing up through the years. Guests will not only love the originality of the idea but they will also get to see what you both looked like when you were younger. Of course, if they have known you your entire life, then this will give them a chance to reminisce about you.

If you are planning on a fall wedding use baskets and terra cotta pots to add a fall touch to your centerpiece decorations. Fill the baskets and pots with tiny pumpkins, apples, corn stalk and gourds. This will add that little extra touch to the season while filling your table with inexpensive decorations.

For a more romantic look, use inexpensive single fish bowls. Fill these centerpiece decorations with water, which can be colored with liquid dye, and add a floating candle. You may also find inexpensive artificial flowers that can be snipped at the tops and laid around the candles. This will create the mood of romance and add candlelight to each of your tables.

For a Christmas time wedding, use poinsettias and gold ribbons for centerpiece decorations. If you have extra money to spend, buy miniature Christmas trees and decorate them with lights and wedding charms for ornaments, which can be found at most bridal decoration stores. Place the trees in the middle of the table and let the guests try and guess what meaning each of the charms hold!

Let your guests get involved in your first day as man and wife by using paper and pens as a centerpiece decoration. Buy decorated paper and pens, placing them at each sitting. Leave instructions for the guests to give you the best marital advice they can. You may also have the guest make up a love poem to give you. This will get them involved and also give you a keepsake to read on your honeymoon. You may also add a long-stemmed rose at each place setting that they can take home with them.

A popular trend added to centerpiece decorations are disposable cameras with ribbons and bows tied around them. You can also type a note to hang from the camera letting guests know to take pictures throughout the night and then place the cameras inside a designated box as they leave. Just imagine the different photos you will have once the film is all developed.

No matter what you choose as centerpiece decorations, you can create a mood and atmosphere that represents your style, at an inexpensive price. So, hang balloons from the ceiling, let the cameras start clicking and begin your life together with friends, family and a lot of good times.

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This article courtesy of

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Related Items Saving Money on Wedding Centerpieces

Catering - Budgeting Tips For Every Serving Style

2007-05-31T16:26:34Z

By Cori Locklin

Before you begin choosing between filet and chicken, you'll need to consider how you'd like to serve them. The most common serving options include seated meal, buffet and passed-tray reception. When it comes to budget, each style has it's own important budgeting considerations and tips:

Seated Meal:

At a seated meal, guests are seated and served by a waitstaff at tables usually 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 serves 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.

Budget Tips: Don't assume a seated meal is a drain on your wedding budget. Costs are moderated by the fact that guests eat what they're served and cannot go back for seconds, making the amount of food consumed easier to manage. Costs also depend almost completely on what you choose to serve. One way to save cash is to decrease the number of courses. For instance, serve either soup or salad, not both. Chicken tends to be the most inexpensive of the proteins, and although beef is typically the priciest, you can cut down on cost by serving a triangle-cut sirloin. If you prefer seafood, consider farm-raised salmon which tends to be the most reasonably priced fish with the widest appeal. Other options include pork, lamb, pasta and vegetarian. If you must, rely on dinner rolls and other inexpensive sides to satisfy your guests' appetites.

Buffet:

At a buffet, guests select their food from either one long table or stations strategically placed throughout the room. 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.

Budget Tips: Although you will save on the cost of wait staff by presenting your meal buffet-style, the total cost may not be less. People tend to eat more because they can return to the buffet as often as they wish, so you may have to order more food, which can cut into your wedding budget. Again, costs depend almost entirely on what you choose to serve.

Passed-Tray:

At this style of wedding 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.

Budget Tips: If cost and time are major considerations in your wedding planning, then a passed-tray reception consisting entirely of cocktails and appetizers may be the perfect option for your wedding budget. This style is typically the least stressful and the most wallet-friendly. Since these events typically run for only two hours, in addition to savings on food and beverage - location, staffing and other rental fees are also considerably reduced.

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For more information on planning your

Wedding Catering

, visit my complete catering guide at Elegala.com. Cori Locklin is editor-in-chief for

Elegala.com

and Elegala Magazine (and a recent bride!). Elegala is a new wedding planning resource offering the most comprehensive portfolio of superior wedding reception sites and wedding services, along with planning tips, photo galleries and checklists to keep brides in-the-know on today's wedding trends and styles.