3/29/07

Should The Bride Wear A Red Wedding Gown?

Red wedding gowns have been popular in Europe for the last ten years and now are the hot new trend in America. At first we saw a hint of red, in a bold sash attached to a traditional white dress. Now you can select a complete red gown, a red bodice with a white A-line or organza skirt, or a strapless white bodice with a full red skirt. Other options include red corset lacings, trains, embroidery and mini-bouquets attached to the dress.

Many brides are bored with the monotonous selection of strapless white and ivory gowns. They are independent and want to make a statement. Some are choosing colored wedding gowns according to the season. Spring brides are choosing pale pastel pinks, lilacs and blues. Those getting married in the summer are adding deeper shades of turquoise, aqua, purple and hot pink to the gowns. Chocolate, rust, olive and eggplant are popular for fall brides. And winter brides are selecting deep reds and blues, as well as black and white gowns, to make the boldest statements. Red, however is the one color that symbolizes passion and romance, and is appropriate all year long.

When deciding whether to wear a solid red wedding gown, the bride should ask herself whether she will be bothered by the opinions of her more conservative wedding guests. Another consideration is how she will feel about her wedding photos 10, 25 or 50 years from now. Are red wedding gowns just a temporary bridal fashion fad or are they here to stay? My guess is that the bridal industry will continue to be innovative with bold new styles, colors and fabrics for years to come. Strapless wedding gowns, for example, would have been unthinkable 20 years ago. Now they are the hottest selling gowns available and will continue to be popular. The bride should select the gown that best suits her personality and wear it with confidence.
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3/27/07

Exploring the Dark Side of the Sun



(MS) - Despite the warnings of experts, millions of people continue to go about their days with little concern about sun damage. However, too much sun exposure can significantly damage human skin in varying degrees. Whether you are walking the dog, heading out to the car, sitting indoors by a window or spending time outside when it is cloudy, you are being exposed to harmful UV rays.

The heat of the sun dries out areas of unprotected skin and depletes the skin's supply of natural lubricating oils. In addition, UV radiation can cause burning and long-term changes in the skin's structure, in addition to cancer. Those who have been exposed to the sun long-term may experience extrinsic aging, which is an early aging caused by repeated exposure. The skin may show lines, wrinkling and lose its elasticity. In addition, age or other forms of discoloration marks may appear.

PREVENTION

Taking active steps to shield oneself from the sun is key to keeping skin healthy. Some people are more susceptible to sun damage than others, so they must be extra diligent in their protection efforts. These individuals include fair-skinned people; those who take certain medications such as antibiotics, which may cause heightened sensitivity to the sun; people who live close to the equator or in higher elevations; those with a family history of skin cancer; and those who spend a lot of time outdoors participating in work or recreation activities.

To safeguard the skin, take these measures:

· Cover up - Search for shade at every possible occasion. Wear wide-brimmed hats and firmly woven, loose-fitting, full-length clothing for additional protection. Also, wear sunglasses that block 95 to 100 percent of UV rays to protect the eyes.

· Sunblock - Sun protection should be applied 20 minutes prior to leaving the house, whether indirect or direct sun exposure is expected. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a product that offers an SPF of 15 or higher with broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. Areas to focus on include the face, ears, lips, neck and the scalp if hair is thinning. For extended exposure, reapply every few hours.

· Don't substitute - Some people think that indoor tanning beds are safer than outdoor tanning. This is not the case.

· Watch the clock - The sun is the strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so limit exposure during these times. Try to do outdoor activities in the early morning or in early evening when the sun isn't so powerful.

TREATMENT

There are many people who now wisely take care in the sun, but may have previous sun damage from their youth or when they were less informed. There are a range of treatments for sun damage which include nonprescriptive, prescriptive and cosmetic options. Here's a look at the options:

1. Nonprescriptive: These are typically appropriate if sun damage is very minimal. Such treatments can be purchased at a neighborhood pharmacy.

· Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs): AHAs remove dead skin cells from the surface and increase moisture levels below to create a smoother, more healthy skin tone.

· Antioxidants, like vitamins C and E: These substances work from within to stimulate the formation and support of the skin, including collagen production. They can also be applied topically to lower the appearance of wrinkles and skin discoloration.

· Retinol: This substance is pure vitamin A. It is important in the structure of healthy skin and stimulating the renewal of keratinocytes, which are the cells that synthesize keratin. Keratin is a protein that makes up hair, skin and nails. Retinol can smooth and soften skin.

2. Prescriptive: These treatments are prescribed by a dermatologist based on the severity of skin damage.

· Tretinoin: This gel or cream has been shown to reverse sun damage and smooth the skin in a number of weeks. It can also fade brown spots and improve skin texture.

· Hydroquinones: These topical treatments reduce the production of melanin, the substance which colors the skin and is responsible for tanning. This treatment helps remove overpigmented cells while enhancing skin tone and clarity.

3. Cosmetic: Cosmetic procedures involve a trip to the dermatologist or perhaps a plastic surgeon.

· Chemical peels: A chemical solution is applied to the skin to remove the outer layer. Redness and irritation may occur, but as the skin regenerates, the results may be smoother and softer skin.

· Microdermabrasion: The outer layer of skin is gently scraped away to encourage new growth. Fine lines, discoloration and texture can occur after multiple applications.

· Collagen injections: Injections fill out wrinkles or scarring caused by sun damage. Regular injections may be necessary.

· Laser resurfacing: A laser essentially removes the outer layers of skin to improve appearance.


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3/26/07

Tips for Finding the Right Wedding Day Florist

Wedding flowers

The right florist can bring to life your vision of wedding day perfection.


(CL) - One of the more aesthetically appealing and, as a result, noticeable parts of a wedding are the floral arrangements. The right choice of flowers can add that much more to an already special day, while the wrong choice can become an irritating distraction from the bride and groom. To make sure your arrangements are a perfect addition, instead of an eyesore, consider the following tips.

· Ask around: Recently married friends who live nearby should be able to recommend a good florist or at least keep you from making the same mistakes they made. Ask about particular arrangements and what styles they chose. If you attended their wedding try and remember the type of event it was, be it a formal party or a more casual gathering. Oftentimes, the nature of the wedding can dictate what arrangement might be most appropriate.

If none of your friends in the area have recently walked down the aisle, ask the staff at the reception hall or where the ceremony itself will be taking place. Chances are, they've been exposed to numerous arrangements and seen them in action, so they could prove to be a valuable resource.

· View a portfolio: If a florist is worth hiring, he should have a portfolio of past weddings he's worked on. This can be your best way to gauge how the image in your head might match up with what the florist will provide come the big day. Some florists can also put together a sample bouquet. If a florist has no portfolio, seriously consider going elsewhere.

· Go prepared: When going to visit or interview a florist, bring as much as information as possible. If you can bring along a picture of both the bride's dress and at least the color of the bridesmaids' gowns, this can be a big help in making sure you select flowers that coordinate. Also, know exactly what you'll be needing, such as how many arrangements, bouquets, boutonnieres and corsages, and ask for an itemized estimate. This will ensure that you won't be surprised when it comes time to pay the bill and can pick only those items that fit within your budget.

· Ask about using flowers that are in-season: This can be a good way to save money. Using out-of-season flowers will cost more, while in-season flowers and those specific to your region of the country can considerably lessen the blow on your budget. Filler material, such as leaves and berries, can also save money but be pleasing to the eye.

· Get delivery service information before signing on the dotted line: Make sure you know if the florist moves the arrangements between locations and rearranges at the reception or wherever you go once the ceremony is over. No couple wants to worry about moving the flowers themselves, so make sure these arrangements are listed in the final agreement.



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3/23/07

Wedding Tips - Beautiful Hair, Beautiful Bride



Got a beauty question? Ask a MakeUp.com Expert!


By L Hayes

One of the most challenging decisions you will face after choosing your wedding gown is your style of hair. Keep in mind that while you might have thought you wanted to wear your hair up, but once you choose your dress, this might no longer be the best option. Here are a few tips on how to choose the perfect wedding hairstyle.

It's a good idea to start by having several hairstyle choices in mind so you can coordinate with the theme of the wedding, along with style of the gown. One of the best ways to gain ideas on hairstyles is by looking through glamour type magazines, bridal magazines, or even visiting with the stylist that will actually create the style for you.

As mentioned, the style of the wedding gown should play an important role in the hairstyle. As an example, if you decide to go with a princess ball gown, then soft, flowing ringlets would be gorgeous. However, if the wedding gown is an off the shoulder or backless design, then wearing your hair up might be most appropriate.

Another important decision is the stylist you select. If you plan to be married locally, chances are you have a favorite stylist, but the key here is to make sure this person knows how to create styles for weddings. In other words, just because a stylist is talented in coloring or cutting hair, he or she may not have the appropriate skill in creating wedding hairstyles. If your wedding is a 'destination wedding', out of state or country, it is important to take photographs of what you want before trying to find someone at that location.

Unfortunately, many brides make a common mistake in using the wedding day as a time of experiment. It's normally not a good idea to make major changes to your hair regarding a permanent or coloring until after the wedding date. In addition, having too much done on your hair within six months before the wedding could cause damage to the hair.

If you plan to wear your hair up, avoid having the top layers of your hair colored or highlighted. Although this coloring is gorgeous when your hair is down, once worn up, the two- or three-tone coloring will look odd. If your hair is thin, then talk to your hair stylist about adding clip-on extensions to create volume or length. Typically, a bride wants something special or unique for her wedding day, which is fine, but be careful not to go too over the top.

Finally, have your hair stylist try various styles months prior to your wedding. This way, the stylist will have the opportunity to “practice”, getting the look exactly as you want. In addition, having various styles created ahead of time allows you the chance to make changes or adjustments if need be.




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3/21/07

Buying A Wedding Ring? Avoid Classic Diamond Scams




Diamond Journey Collection


By: Lesley-Ann Graham

As you walk along on your quest for the perfect diamond for your mate,
you hear, “Pssst! Hey mister, I hear you’re looking for some good
rocks. I’ve got some great stones, really reasonably priced. I’ll even throw
in the ring for free!”

Sounds shady? You bet he is! Of course, you wouldn’t really buy a
diamond from a guy in an alley wearing a trench, right?

Bet you’d be amazed by how many scams are pulled and in broad daylight
by jewelers who seem absolutely honest. Some of them even have
beautiful shops that look really hi-tech. Beat them at their own game by
learning their scams.

The bigger the better, a lot of people say. When a jeweler tells you
that you have a five carat diamond ring, don’t get dazzled by the carats.
If there was only one stone then you’d have no problem. You might
actually be getting a 1 carat diamond surrounded by eight half-carat smaller
pieces.

An honest jeweler will tell you the weight of each stone in the ring
separate from the center diamond. In fact he’ll even give you a
certificate from a reputed lab such as the Gemological Institute of America
(GIA) as proof. If he can’t or won’t do these, you’re better off buying
from someone else.

Then there’s the bait and switch. The jewelry store will advertise a
diamond at a great price. Problem is that when you get there, they’ll
tell you that it’s already been sold and try to convince you to get
another piece instead. Rarely is this case true. Usually there was never such
a piece and they’ll show you something more expensive that they will
try to get you to buy instead.

If the diamond that they announced for sale isn’t available, ask for
another just like it. If they can’t produce another one of the same
special quality and price, you are better off walking out the door. Don’t
let them get your hard earned money.

Normally when you go to a jewelry shop, the gems are lying on a
beautiful cloth bed under bright lights. The gems are so white and tempting.
Hold it right there! Most diamonds really will look whiter especially
under lights that give off a certain blue component. If you really want
to check the color of a stone, check it in sunlight. If they refuse,
refuse to purchase as well.

You were finally able to find the gem that symbolizes your love. You
ask your jeweler t o know make it into a ring so that you can propose to
your beloved. He said that you would have to leave it with him for a
few weeks and he’ll call you when it’s ready.

When the ring arrives, it is beautiful but….something about it just
doesn’t feel right. You can’t quite put your finger on it but this doesn’t
seem to be the diamond that you bought. How can you tell?

The solution is simple: have the diamond checked by an independent
gemologist certified by a group such as the GIA. Have them compare it to
the certificate of your diamond to confirm that it is a match. After all,
no two diamonds are exactly the same. Then you’ll know and can demand
proper action.

Bottom line, to avoid scams you should take the time to educate
yourself about the basics of diamonds. Next you’ll need to find a jeweler or
gemologist that you can truly trust. Lastly, always ensure that you are
given the proper certificate for your gem, one issued by the
Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or another reputed independent lab. These will save you a whole lot of money and avoid giving you headaches.




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      Article Source: http://www.wedding-wisdom.com
      Lesley-Ann Graham runs the       www.WeddingTrix.com website, a valuable wedding planning resource with bridal guides, articles for the bride and bridesmaid, wedding etiquette advice for brides, tips for brides, bridal checklists, wedding planning worksheets, and more! The Bride, Groom, Best Man, Bridesmaids and Groomsmen can find it all the site.
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      3/2/07

      Wedding Reception - 42 Questions to ask the Reception Site Manager

      PersonalizationMall.com


      By Cori Locklin

      When reviewing wedding reception sites, it helps to come equipped with the questions you need answered before making your decision. Here is what you will need to find out from your reception site manager:

      Costs Involved

      First and foremost—you will need to determine the cost of holding your wedding reception at the site. Sounds like a given, right? You will discover that most reception sites break down their costs differently, and what may seem to be less expensive may wind up more costly once all of the figures are totaled. Avoid confusion by requesting an itemized list of fees—or take this one with you—and tally the costs of each fee and service you will most likely use for your event. (Have an idea of your guest count beforehand—this will influence the estimated costs) Then you can compare your lists to accurately determine which site is the most cost effective for your needs.

      Already confused? Not to worry—we have compiled a complete list of typical costs and fees charged by wedding reception sites. If the facility does not provide one of these services, such as an onsite caterer, factor in the estimated cost of contracting the service from an outside vendor when tallying your total expenses.

      Questions to ask:

      • What is the facility rental fee?

      • What is the cost—for food? (sites typically offer more than one menu package; determine which menu package you will most likely utilize for your wedding reception—and use that amount in determining your estimate.)

      • What is the cost—for beverage? (save time by having an idea of what beverage package you would like to serve, whether a full bar, limited bar or non-alcoholic bar)

      • If you can hold your ceremony on site, what is the ceremony fee?

      • What is the set-up/break-down fee? (some sites charge per chair, others charge a lump sum)

      • What is the staffing fee? (including bartenders, waiters etc.)

      • What is the overtime fee?

      • Is there a fee for security personnel?

      • Is there a fee for parking or valets?

      Packages

      Just when you think you've got a handle on the costs involved in renting a reception site, a facility offers a complete wedding package. Wedding packages can be both cost-effective and convenient, as long as you take care to inquire about exactly what is and what is not included in the package.

      Also remember to inquire about the exact descriptions of the items included in the package. For instance—if you have your heart set on an elaborately adorned 5 tiered fondant cake and the package only offers your basic buttercream—the package may not be for you - no matter what the potential savings.

      Ask the site manager:

      • What is included in the wedding package? Make sure all the basics are included:

      • Facility Rental?

      • Food and Beverage?

      • Ceremony on site?

      • Set up and Break down?

      • Staffing?

      Other items that may or may not be included:

      • Cake? (if so, how many does it serve? Can you customize the design?)

      • Flowers? (does the package include all floral, or just buffet arrangements or bouquets? Can you customize the arrangements or do they only come in standard varieties?)

      • Linens? (what do they look like? How many?)

      • Is purchasing the wedding package a requirement? (Many facilities allow brides the option of purchasing the entire package, purchasing a partial package and eliminating specific items or foregoing the wedding package altogether.)

      Services

      Determine what essential services the reception site provides and what you must contract from an outside vendor:

      • Is there an in-house caterer or a list of preferred caterers? If so, are they the exclusive caterers, or can you provide your own?

      • Are there on-site kitchen facilities? (off-site caterers will charge extra if they have to bring their own stoves and refrigerators)

      • Does the reception site have a list of recommended vendors?

      • Can you hold your ceremony on site? If not, are there suitable locations nearby?

      • Does the reception site provide staff such as an on-site coordinator, waiters and bartenders?

      • Does the reception site provide items such as tables, chairs, plates and glasses? (remember, renting these things yourself can drive up costs)

      • Does the reception site provide adequate parking space or valets? What are the costs involved?

      • Does the reception site provide on-site security. What are the costs involved?

      Amenities

      Some important extras that may help you determine the perfect venue for your wedding reception:

      • Are there changing rooms for the bridal party?

      • Does the facility provide guest accommodations or are their convenient locations nearby?

      • Is there a bar area or can one be set up?

      • Are there picturesque locations for photo opportunities? Both inside and out?

      • Is there a dance floor?

      • Are there sufficient restroom facilities?

      • Is there, or can you set up, a coat room?

      • Is the facility in a desirable location? Consider the view and any potential noise interruptions. Is it easy to get to? Is it close to any nearby attractions? (keep your guests entertained for the entire weekend!)

      Terms

      Don't forget the conditions of the contract! Make sure it meets your needs.

      • What is the length of the facility rental? Is there an overtime fee if your wedding reception lasts longer?

      • Do you have use of the entire reception site? If not - what areas can your party use?

      • What is the deposit and when is the remainder due?

      • What is the cancellation policy?

      • Does the site have any music or noise restrictions?

      • Are there any decorating restrictions?

      • Will there be another party during, before or after yours? If so, how will this affect your event?


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        Cori Locklin is editor-in-chief for 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 http://www.elegala.com/ , your ultimate wedding planning resource. Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cori_Locklin

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        3/1/07

        Does The Hall Really Set Your Wedding Date?


        EasyClickTravel.com

        By: Wedding Wisdom Staff

        So, you've just become engaged and you're ready to step onto the wedding planning carousel, a ride you will most likely be on for the next year if you are planning a typical wedding with family and friends and a full reception. You've got a lot of work ahead of you, but where to begin?

        There's really only one place to begin, since it's the question virtually every vendor is going to ask about before they agree to take you as a client; Setting your wedding date.

        Now, before you and your fiance get all rosy-eyed about getting married on Valentine's Day, or your parents' anniversary, there's something you ought to know. You may not actually be the ones determining the date of the most important day of your lives. More often than not, it is the reception hall you choose that will most likely be the determining factor for your wedding date.

        The simple fact of wedding planning is that many halls are booked in advance, sometimes years in advance, so your ideal wedding date may already be taken. Out of a possible 365 days in an entire year, how could anyone else have possibly chosen the same wedding date as you? Here are just a couple of likely reasons.

        Time of Year

        The time of year, or season you want to set your wedding date in, has a lot to do with the availability of a hall. Springtime, especially the ever popular month of June, isn't referred to as the 'Bridal Season' without reason. The beauty of this time of year, with flowers fresh in bloom and warm spring sunshine offers an ideal setting for any wedding date. And that is exactly what nearly every other prospective bride is thinking. If you simply have to have a traditional June wedding date, be prepared to wait at least a year or more for your wedding, even if you are flexible about your wedding date.

        Other seasons may actually offer a better chance to book a hall on your first choice wedding date. Winter is not usually any bride's first choice, since weather can wreak havoc with the wedding date with little notice. Except for Christmas and New Years Eve, you stand a fairly good chance of getting the hall you want for your wedding date.

        Autumn is a little harder, as many brides love the idea of cool weather and colorful fall leaves as a background for the perfect wedding date. While you may still be able to get a wedding date in the fall, you may have to change it by a week or two.

        Summer is a toss up. Some brides choose the outside reception option for their wedding date, but just as many are likely to book an air conditioned hall so the cake, as well as their make-up, doesn't melt.

        Holidays

        Think setting your wedding date on a major holiday is romantic? Join the crowd of brides standing behind you raising their hands too. Valentine's, Sweetest Day, Christmas and New Years are extremely popular days to get married. If you need a classic example of the hall setting the wedding date, this is it. You may wait years to get a wedding date in a good reception hall for one of these holidays.

        So, at this point you might be wondering if there is anything you can do to increase your chances of booking a hall for your first choice wedding date?

        Friday vs. Saturday

        Traditionally, most brides prefer a Saturday wedding date, since many people have Saturdays off from work, and then have Sunday to recuperate. However, if you're willing to set your wedding date on a Friday evening, you've just opened up approximately 52 more potential wedding dates from which to choose.

        Another bonus of the Friday wedding date? Halls only make money if they're booked, so they really want to book on Fridays too. Many halls that insist on their own catering staff will actually let you book the hall for free, since they are making their money from the dinner.

        Wedding Brunch vs. Wedding Dinner

        By being open to the possibility of an earlier brunch, as compared to a dinner reception, you may be able to book your wedding date in the same hall as another couple. Keep in mind, that if you are the brunch, you will need to end your reception at a predetermined time in order for the hall to be cleared, cleaned and decorated for the next couple's event.

        So the answer is actually yes, to some extent the reception hall really does determine the wedding date in many instances. The important thing to remember is to set your wedding date first and begin looking for halls right away. Once you have this part of your wedding plan in place, lining up the rest of your vendors will seem like a piece of wedding cake.



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        Source: http://www.wedding-wisdom.com Are you frustrated with your wedding planning progress? Then Wedding-Wisdom.com is the website that has all the answers you have been looking for. Wedding Wisdom provides free informative, practical and idea saturated articles from experts in the wedding industry to help you plan the most memorable day of your life.

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