Merry Brides: 2008

10/1/08

How To Shop For Wedding Bands

By Cori Russell

Shopping for wedding rings involves slightly more than picking out a strand of beads. These steps will walk you through it…

Step 1 Choose Your Style

What's Your Function -
Since this is a ring you'll wear every day, it must match your lifestyle. Super active? Work with your hands? Opt for a simple metal ring with rounded edges, appropriately named a "comfort fit," instead of a wide detailed band or one with stones. If you have skin allergies to metal alloys (found in gold bands), you'll need to invest in platinum, a pure, hypo allergenic metal.

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

Test of Time -
Wedding rings are not the accessory for paying homage to the fad gods. Make sure to select a classic style that won't look dated decades down the road.

Step 2 Examine Your Budget

Since metal selection is so closely tied to cost; you'll need to examine your budget before you get too carried away with your preferences. Here is what you can typically expect to pay:

For a plain gold band - prices range from about $100-$200

For a simple platinum band - prices run between $400-$1000

For a band with diamonds - prices vary widely depending on the metal and quality of stones you choose, but the cost of an average diamond wedding band is about $1000.

Engraving can cost from $1 to $8 per character. Actual cost depends on the font and whether it's engraved by hand or machine.

Step 3 Start Browsing

Start your wedding ring search at least two months before your wedding day - and even earlier if you want a custom piece or engraving (which can take up to 1 month). Just like any other big ticket purchase, avoid the urge to buy the first thing you see; browsing is a vital part of the ring selection process.

* Recommended online Jewelry sites

DesignBands.com Find the Perfect Wedding Band
Stauer Jewelry Luxurious DiamondAura

JewelryVortex.com Great discounts

*Please visit our sister site for more great advice Merry Brides

8/30/08

Learn to Love Imperfection

By Krista Dunk

Do you know any person who is perfect in every way? Have you ever failed, fallen short, or been offensive or wrong? At a recent conference, I learned an important principle about love that needs to be shared. This is the ultimate in forgiveness - it's learning to love imperfection.

Marriage is the most tender, yet most strenuous relationship we have. If you have the expectation of perfection for yourself or for your spouse, you will be disappointed - probably everyday. Loving someone else means you love their soul - the good, the bad and the ugly (hopefully not too much ugly). At some point you will be let down, offended, hurt, angry, disillusioned, bored, stressed, frustrated, nit-picky, and upset. Can you truly love them anyway? Don't forget that at some point you too will be the one who offends, is wrong, behaves insensitively, hurts the other person, etc., whether you purposely mean to or not.

At the same time, a marriage relationship also brings hope, joy, security, partnership, intimacy, friendship, family, collaboration, support, fun, financial gain, passion, respect, honor, and love. Without pushing through the bad, you can never enjoy the good that an enduring marriage brings. Love should cover and forgive an offense, not dwell on it. Don't get me wrong, if we're talking about abuse or adultery... the rules change of course. But for other circumstances, learn to love imperfection while striving to improve your relationship.

Unfortunately falling short is a fact of life, even though we don't intend to or purposefully mean to do so. Examine yourself and see if you have unrealistic expectations for your spouse (or for yourself). Unmet expectations that are not resolved lead to dissatisfaction, resentment, depression, and more. Instead, practice forgiveness, patience and loving imperfection. It's not easy, but we all need love in spite of our faults and mistakes. We all need to know that we're loved no matter what - in the good times and the bad, in sickness and in health, for richer and for poorer... sound familiar?

Just keepin' it real: Be blessed!

My Recommended Reading

How to Be an Adult in Relationships

Approaching the study of relationships from a psychotherapist's perspective is How to Be an Adult in Relationships: The Five Keys to Mindful Loving. Teacher and writer David Richo gives practical and spiritual exercises for couples and singles who want to have mature and lasting relationships. Emphasizing paying attention and letting go, Richo gently and compassionately coaches readers on what he calls the five A's: attention, acceptance, appreciation, affection and allowing. His book, which proposes "letting go of ego," will help those seeking personal transformation in their relationships

How to Be an Adult in Relationships

Krista Dunk, Founder & CEO http://www.nwweddingplace.com/"Helping Pacific Northwest Couples Plan Their Dream Weddings & Successful Marriages™"Olympia, WARead our Blog at: http://www.nwweddingplace.blogspot.com/Copyright 2008
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Krista_Dunk

Additional Wedding Advice:

MerryBrides
Fun Weddings
Great Wedding Advice
Sparkling Weddings Create Your Own Wedding Website- Great way to keep your guests updated on your wedding!

8/3/08

How to Find the Best Digital Camera for Photographing Weddings

By eHow Electronics Editor

Wedding photography is important. Unlike photographing sporting events or vacations, you are actually photographing the most important day of someone’s life. To do this properly, you will need a good camera. Follow these steps to find the best digital camera for photographing weddings.

Step 1
Research digital cameras online and in consumer magazines. Review their features and read feedback from other customers. Post questions in consumer forums.

Step2
Look for cameras with a high megapixel range. A common megapixel range for digital cameras in 3-4, this would be fine for a wedding if you are a spectator. A professional wedding photographer would use something with a megapixel range of 5 or above.

Step3
Compare optical zooms. You may not be close to the wedding while it is going on so you will need a camera with a good zoom. Look for cameras that can zoom far without having a grainy picture.

Step4
Look for cameras with autofocus. An autofocus camera will make your life easier when photographing weddings.

Step5
Know that higher shutter speeds mean higher quality pictures. A high shutter speed will prevent blurring during action shots.

Step6
Shop around online and at auction sites for the best deal on your camera.
Step7Look for a camera that easily connects to your computer and has plenty of storage. You will want to take many shots at the wedding, and don’t want to run out of memory.

Recommended Links For Great Deals on Digital Cameras

Buy.com Weekly Deals! Prices Drops on Laptops, MP3, Digital Cameras and more!

Shop Calumet Photographic - It's Where the Pros Go

Check out Amazon for some Great Digital Camera deals

Additional Wedding Advice:

MerryBrides
Fun Weddings
Great Wedding Advice
Sparkling Weddings Create Your Own Wedding Website- Great way to keep your guests updated on your wedding!

7/7/08

Duties of the Maid / Matron of Honor

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

Additional Wedding Advice:

MerryBrides
Fun Weddings
Great Wedding Advice
Sparkling Weddings Create Your Own Wedding Website- Great way to keep your guests updated on your wedding!

6/3/08

By Sara Haese

Everybody talks about wedding invitations, but what about all the other terms and items that are associated with them. Below are explanations of some of the more common terms and items that you'll probably encounter while shopping for your invitations.

Seal n Send Invitations: This type of invitation is mailed to guests as a single-folded piece (without an envelope) having the respond postcard attached to the invitation by a perforation for easy removal. Since the respond piece is a postcard, you will save on postage for the return mailing. Prices for this product normally include seals along with a printed return address on both the back flap when initially mailing the invitation and on the perforated respond postcard.

Announcements : For those who won't be invited to your wedding but you would still like them to know about your marriage, you can mail them an announcement card. They can be printed on the same paper as your invitation but mailed on your wedding day or immediately after with the wording stating that your wedding has already taken place.

Reception Cards: If there isn't enough room on your invitation for listing the details of your reception or if not all guests will be invited to attend the reception, reception cards can be ordered to match your invitations and then be included as a separate insert. Please keep in mind that this card could possibly add to your mailing cost since postage is based on weight.

Response Cards: These cards are essential to planning for your dinner/reception since an accurate guest attendance count will be needed for food and seating preparations. The response card along with its mailing envelope will be inserted with your invitation. Remember to include a postage stamp on this small envelope which will also have a mailing address already printed on it so all your guests have to do is fill out the card and mail it back by the date you have printed on it.

Map Cards: These direction cards would be included as a convenience for any guests who might not be familiar with the location of the church and/or reception.
Printed Invitation Envelope Flaps: This option of having your return address printed on the outside envelope can save you valuable time and ensure that undeliverable invitations are returned to you. There is a small cost involved but it also gives an address to those who might not be able to attend but still want to send you a card or gift.

Lined Inner Envelopes: For a small charge, you can request your inner envelopes have a colored lining to add a special touch to your invitation ensemble. Color choices will vary depending on the invitation style you choose.

Envelope Seals: These self-adhesive labels add just the right finishing touch. They are available in many styles and are used on your outer envelope making it look like they are holding the flap down even though it has already been sealed.

Informal Notes: These are used separately from your invitations but should be included with your original order since they are usually printed on matching paper and this will save you on shipping costs. They are personalized with either your names or monogram on the front with the inside being blank for writing your thank you notes. Any leftovers can be used long after the wedding for other purposes. Blank mailing envelopes are included with them.

Not all of the above items are necessary to make your wedding invitations complete. Remember, this is your special day, so it's your decision as to which ones you would like to include as part of your invitation ensemble.

**** RECOMMENDED LINKS ****

InvitationBox.com

Find your perfect wedding invitation. Free Shipping on orders over $150.

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

Resources:Sara Haese owns Printed Creations Wedding Store where you'll find a fantastic selection of

unique wedding invitations as well as save the dates and wedding accessories. Visitors can also sign up to receive her FREE Wedding Invitation Guide. Article Source: www.myweddingarticles.com/article/There-is-More-to-Wedding-Invitations-Than-You-Might-Think Sara Haese owns Printed Creations Wedding Store where you'll find a fantastic selection of unique wedding invitations as well as save the dates and wedding accessories. Visitors can also sign up to receive her FREE Wedding Invitation Guide.

Additional Wedding Advice:

MerryBrides
Fun Weddings
Great Wedding Advice
Sparkling Weddings

5/27/08

Big-Ticket Items a Choice for Brides' Registries

(MS) - While housewares and kitchen electronics still dominate wedding registries, today's tech-savvy brides-to-be are expanding their gift options and including more big-ticket electronics on registries, too.

Perhaps it's a trend spurred on by a greater influence from grooms-to-be with the registering process, or a reflection of the times: women are no longer kitchen-bound and content simply with blenders and coffee makers. Regardless, trends indicate that everything from flat panel televisions, to home-theater systems to digital and video cameras are popular registry items.

In lieu of this registry evolution, here are some tips for women ready to hit the stores and create wedding registries.

· Register for what you need or want. Many of today's couples have lived independently in their own homes before tying the knot. So it's likely that they have many home essentials already. There's no point in registering for a set of silverware if you already have one. Think about the items that can add to your inventory or specialty effects that you now desire, such as fine china or a video camera to capture your newlywed memories.

· Think multiple registries. You needn't limit yourself to one store. Choose three favorite retailers and register items at each. This gives guests plenty of items to choose from on your wish lists and provides greater flexibility to those who don't live by a specific store or don't have online access for Web shopping. Just be sure not to overlap items between stores, because then you could end up with doubles of things. It's better to choose three distinct retailers, such as a big-box store for linens, a housewares store for small kitchen appliances and cooking essentials, and an electronics center for those techy gifts you'd love to have.

· Register as a couple. It certainly may seem more time-efficient if you go out on your own to register, but involving your spouse in gift selection gives him more of a say in the household choices and future marriage. As registry protocol changes even further, your guy can even choose items that are specifically "guy-zone" items, such as tools and power equipment for the garage. This encourages a balance and both of you can walk away happy.

· Don't get blinded by greed. It's easy to go overboard when you have the store's registry scanner gun in your hand. But firing it at every item on the shelves is certainly not the way to go. Remember, make a list of the items that you really need or want. Have a range of items that are priced at a spectrum so there's something for every guests' budget. Consider avoiding the cheapest or smaller items - a ladle here, a meat thermometer there - because those are things you can certainly pick up on your own.

Additional Wedding Advice:

MerryBrides
Fun Weddings
Great Wedding Advice
Sparkling Weddings Create Your Own Wedding Website- Great way to keep your guests updated on your wedding!

5/26/08

Wedding Tresses Made Easy

(MS) - Most brides don't want stress while getting well-tressed for their wedding day. Besides hiring a reputable stylist and ensuring a practice hairdo run before the wedding, here are a few helpful tips.

· Wear a button-down shirt when having your hair and makeup done on your wedding day - or for any other special occasion. This way you can take off the shirt without touching your hair or makeup.

· Bring in your veil or headpiece in advance so your stylist can ensure that the haircombs attached will be in the right position for the style you've requested. If they're not, you'll have ample time to have that rectified.

· Don't apply conditioner to your hair on the day of your wedding. Conditioner may make your hair too silky and smooth, which could be a disadvantage when you want hair to stay put and hold combs or pins in an up-do.

· Opt for a two-piece veil if you desire a long cathedral-style veil. This way you can keep the long portion attached for pictures and the ceremony and then simply remove a portion for the reception and dancing the night away.

· If your headpiece has gemstones or crystals in the design, have the stylist cover the stones up as much as possible before locking in your style with hairspray. After the wedding, talk to a jeweler about the right way to clean the stones. Otherwise the spray can tarnish the headpiece and potentially damage the stones.

· Go with a simple style that matches your personality. You don't want to look like a completely different person on your wedding day - just a better representation of yourself.

Additional Wedding Advice:

MerryBrides
Fun Weddings
Great Wedding Advice
Sparkling Weddings
Create Your Own Wedding Website- Great way to keep your guests updated on your wedding!

A Very "Unfavorable" Trend in Wedding Favors!

By: Linda Ellison

If you do any type of shopping for wedding favors these days, you may notice that the "hottest" new items out there include sachets, lip balms, guest soaps, bath salts, and items like these. So what's wrong with that? What's the "unfavorable" trend that's developing in today's wedding favors? Simply put, these favors are ignoring probably a good half of your wedding guests, namely, the men!

Ask yourself, what man will appreciate receiving a pack of bath salts or lip balm? Probably very few. They may turn around and re-gift these items to some special lady in their life, and you may be thinking that there's nothing wrong with that, but in reality, there is something wrong with wedding favors that ignore the tastes of half your guests.

The entire purpose of wedding favors is to express your appreciation to your guests for sharing in your special day. While you may think of your wedding as being all about you and your groom, don't forget that your guests got all dressed up, paid a babysitter, got a gift for you, drove some distance, and sat through a lot of speeches from relatives that they don't know just to help you celebrate this day. This doesn't mean that attending your wedding is some type of chore for them; chances are they're very happy to do all those things, but expressing your appreciation for their efforts is only appropriate. That's why you give out wedding favors - to show them that you do appreciate everything they've done to make your special day all the more special.

So why ignore half of those guests with a gift that's not appropriate for them? Certainly you don't appreciate your male guests any less than the women that attended, so you would do well to find wedding favors that can be appreciated and used by everyone that's there.

And what's really disappointing about choosing wedding favors that are so gender specific is that these days, a bride has unlimited options when it comes to favors. There's really no reason that she can't find wedding favors that everyone will love.

If you happen to see some wedding favors that you absolutely love and must have, but know are just too "girly" for everyone in attendance, consider purchasing a small amount to give to your bridesmaids and flower girls as a special gift to them. This way you can share these special items but still not alienate half the guests at your wedding!

Recommended Wedding Favor Sites:

Original and stylish Vegas themed favors

- perfect for a Vegas wedding or to add pizzazz to your reception.

Personalized Wedding Favors & Unique Keepsakes by HansonEllis

Beverly Clark Winter Themed Favors

Shop

the entire line of Unique Wedding Favors by Kate Aspen at MyWeddingFavors.com!

Additional Wedding Advice

http://merrybrides.blog.com
http://merrybrides.livejournal.com
http://funweddings.blogspot.ocm
http://weddingsbyashlee.blogspot.com

Article by:
Linda Ellison is a freelance writer who specializes in trends and lifestyles. Her previously published fiction works, including the Dana Ford Mystery Series, have been on bookshelves nationwide. Visit www.FavorsAndWraps.com to read more about the latest trends in wedding favors.

4/27/08

Some Great Options for Cheap Wedding Favors

By: Linda Ellison

The latest statistics show that many couples in the U.S. spend on average around $20,000 for their wedding, including the dress, the tuxedos, the catering, transportation, and so many other things. For many, $20,000 is about half a year’s salary, and all of that for just one day! Yes, it may be the most special day of your life, but still, many couples wonder just how they can perhaps trim a few things in order to bring down that bill – without compromising the beauty of their special day.

Finding some cheap wedding favors wedding favors that don’t seem all that cheap can be one such way. Wedding favors are meant to be a great way for your guests – and for you – to have a keepsake of your special day, and while you want them to be beautiful and expressive, they don’t need to be expensive either.

The First Step to Choosing Cheap Wedding Favors

The first step in picking out some cheap wedding favors is to think about the theme or design of your wedding. If it’s something more traditional, you want favors that reflect this; if your wedding is more casual, then you may have more options.

Cheap wedding favors for a traditional wedding may include small candy dishes, picture frames, or candlesticks. For more casual wedding, you could tie the favors in with the theme – a beach wedding may be a bag of seashells, an outdoor wedding may be seed packets.

The Next Step – Assembling Them Yourself

The next step is to consider what types of wedding favors you can make or at least assemble yourself. Tulle bags full of Hershey’s Kisses or Jordan Almonds are always a favorite. Do you bake? Homemade sugar cookies in the shape of hearts wrapped in pink wax paper is a special treat.

There are also many items you can purchase if you don’t want edible favors, for example, small soaps, key chains in the shape of a heart, and coasters are good ideas.

Another suggestion for cheap wedding favors is personalized candy bar wrappers. Many companies that offer these products will allow you to just purchase the wrappers and foil by themselves, and you can buy your own candy bars and wrap them yourself, saving you quite a bit of money.

Most companies that offer candy bar wrappers have a variety of designs available that will match your wedding’s theme. You can check leading wedding websites such as The Knot, Wed Alert, and Favors and Wraps; these have personalized wrappers available, and of course their inventory is always being updated with new items.

So if you’re looking to trim a few dollars from your wedding bill but don’t want to look as if you’ve compromised anything, cheap wedding favors may be an option, if you’re willing to take some time to shop and compare.

Additional Wedding Advice

http://merrybrides.blog.com
http://merrybrides.livejournal.com
http://weddingsbyashlee.blogspot.com
http://funweddings.blogspot.com

Article by:
Linda Ellison is a freelance writer who specializes in trends and lifestyles. Her previously published fiction works, including the Dana Ford Mystery Series, have been on bookshelves nationwide. Visit http://www.favorsandwraps.com/ to read more about the latest trends in wedding favors.

3/4/08

All About Bridesmaids’ Luncheons

By Cori Locklin

Gather with the girls one last time before the main event.

Let’s face it – weddings go by in such a blur that after the dishes have cleared and the flowers begin to wilt, many brides realize they never really had a chance to spend some quality time with their nearest and dearest. That’s what makes bridesmaids luncheons so great – they afford the perfect opportunity to get together and enjoy some quality female bonding with your closest girlfriends one last time before the main event. They’re entirely optional, but this fun and typically hassle free soiree is definitely worth your while. So what does it entail?

Read on to find out…

What Is It

Bridesmaids luncheons are an opportunity for you to gather with your bridesmaids before the wedding and thank them for being a part of your wedding party. Think of the bridesmaids’ luncheon or tea like a reverse bridal shower – in which you’re now the hostess instead of the maids. The etiquette surrounding the bridesmaids’ luncheon is pretty flexible, so feel free to adapt to suit your needs. The “luncheon” can be dinner, brunch, an afternoon of pampering at the nearby spa, or a group activity of some kind. The event can be formal and elegant or casual and fun.

When Is It

The bridesmaids luncheon usually takes place a day or two before the wedding. This allows any out-of-town bridesmaids traveling to the wedding to make it in one trip. However, if you fear the days leading up to the wedding will be too action packed and stressful, you may choose to have it earlier – especially if all your maids live in-town.

Who Hosts

Usually, you (the bride), your mom, or another close friend or family member hosts in honor of your bridesmaids. Sometimes the bridesmaids may host in honor of the bride, but this isn’t as common.

Who’s Invited

Obviously all of the bridesmaids and junior bridesmaids will be in attendance, along with your mom and your fiancé’s mom. Other attendees may include your close female relatives – sisters, cousins, aunts - as well as any flower girls. Regardless, it’s usually best to try to keep it intimate. This may be one of the few times during the whirlwind wedding weekend when you can relax and enjoy some close, quiet time with the special women in your life. Think of it as a bittersweet, fond farewell.

Where is It

Bridesmaids’ luncheons can take place anywhere – although the venue should be close to the wedding and accommodations for any bridesmaids who may be traveling. If your maids are all staying at the same hotel, the hotel dining room or other function room makes a great and convenient location. Restaurants, tearooms and country clubs also make good locations, or it can take place at the hostess’s home.

What Happens

Unlike showers, bridesmaids’ luncheons aren’t typically centered around planned games and activities. The one constant is that you thank your bridesmaids - either formally in a prepared speech or toast, or one-on-one throughout the event. The luncheon is also a great time to present your bridesmaids’ gifts – along with any gifts to the moms and grandmothers in attendance.

The girls may also present you with your something old, new, borrowed and blue, or if the maids went in on a group gift, they may present it at the luncheon. Other activity ideas? The married guests can come prepared with an anecdote about marriage or advice.

Ideas & Trends

So sipping tea and nibbling finger sandwiches isn’t your thing? Don’t worry, you’re not required to plan a formal luncheon. Use your imagination to craft an event your circle will enjoy. Here are some fun “tea and crumpets” alternatives.

a picnic
a hike
a wine tasting
a slumber party
a visit to an art exhibit, museum, aquarium, zoo – or any other cultural activity

***PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT***

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Additional Wedding Planning Reading

http://merrybrides.livejournal.com
http://funweddings.blog.com
http://weddingsbyashlee.blogspot.com
http://windsor.weddingwindow.com

Cori Locklin is editor-in-chief for http://www.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.

2/10/08

Advice On Preparing For A Great Home Wedding

By Amanda Jane

Why spend a fortune for a commercial wedding venue when you have your very own backyard or garden to host it? If you have enough space in your yard, then your home would be a good option.

Home weddings used to be the rule and commercial venues the exception since the event itself is truly a family affair. As people's lives became more complicated, and their schedules more hectic, couples began to consider commercial wedding venues.

There is no place like home and holding the event here may not only be more comfortable for the couple but it will also be less expensive. However, you need to have your home all spruced up and you have to prepare for your home wedding.

Assign people

Don't be a control freak. Well, if you must, at least assign a trusted family member or friend to take are of each arrangement. Consider your home wedding as an organization activity where you have to establish a committee that will take care of things. Set up a committee for cleanliness, decoration, safety, catering, tables and chairs and even food test.

Measure your space

Make sure you the total number of people who will be present in your wedding will fit in your yard. This includes the caterers, waiters, guests and even your videographer and photographer. You may have to adjust your guest list to the actual space available in your yard. A buffet party will be ideal if you want to accommodate as many guests because you need not set up formal tables for all of them. This also means you will have an informal set up.

Availability of parking area

Does your neighborhood have enough parking space for your guests? Ask your neighborhood officials if you need to get a permit for the party considering that you may have to reserve a lot of space for parking. This will give the officials a heads up so they can organize the traffic to your area. But if you live in a ranch and you own acres of land then you definitely wouldn't' have any problem with parking space.

Landscape ahead

You want a picturesque view during your wedding so it would be good to plan ahead. Landscape your lawn several months from the event. You should also decide on your theme and color so the landscape artist can figure this in his design.

Check with the officiant

There are denominations that do not allow the holding of wedding ceremonies outside a chapel or a church. If such is the case, you may want to consider another officiant who would agree to the planned venue.

Book a nearby hotel

Some of your guests may come from different places and they would want to check in at the nearest hotel. It is always practical to have your guests billeted at a hotel, either at your own expense or theirs, unless you have a large estate. Make sure you mention this in your invitation so they can also plan ahead.

There are thousand and one things to attend to when you are planning a home wedding. It can get pretty crazy especially when the big day draws near but the satisfaction of being married in a place you call home will always be a cherished memory.

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

2/7/08

Couture Bridal Look On A Budget

By Shanell Bledsoe

The rumors are true...you don't have to spend a fortune on a wedding gown to look like you did!

The details that make couture style so expensive can be recreated on a simple, inexpensive gown. For instance, some of the trends right now are draped fabric, ruching, sashes, broaches, and unique accessories.

You can start with a simple, strapless satin dress with little or no embellishment. (Search online for "simple wedding gown" or "informal wedding dress.") Add a wide satin sash in a fabulous color, tied either in a bow or square knot, and place a broach in the middle of it. Why not dye your favorite heels to match the sash color? Top it off with a matching satin bolero jacket for a little coverage in case the air is chilly at your reception.

If your wedding is going to be held in an informal location such as a beach or garden, consider a dress in a lightweight, flowy fabric such as chiffon. Complete your look with a satin ribbon around the waist in a beachy color like turquoise or coral, and adorn your feet with footless sandals (or foot jewelry) made with pearls or crystal beads. A long veil is always beautiful blowing in the sea breeze. Imagine those gorgeous pictures!

Another idea for an unembellished dress is to keep the focus on your accessories. A sassy birdcage veil (think Reece Witherspoon in Sweet Home Alabama!) and vintage chandelier earrings give a sophisticated, elegant look to any simple gown.

Remember, your wedding is all about your individual style. So get creative, look for accessories that show off who you are, and make it your own!

Recommended Link:

Couture Bridal Gowns - Everything you need to create the dress of your dreams!

Additional Wedding Planning Advice
http://merrybrides.blogspot.com
http://funweddings.blogspot.com
http://windsor.weddingwindow.com
http://weddingsbyashlee.blogspot.com

Written by: Shanell Bledsoe, owner of Destinations Bridal http://www.destinationsbridal.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shanell_Bledsoe

2/6/08

7 Tips For A Great First Dance

By Mike Staff

You don't have to be on "Dancing with the Stars" to enjoy your first dance together as husband and wife. Use these tips...

1. Choose a meaningful song. Select a song you both love and one that keeps an easy beat, especially if you're beginning dancers. When your song lasts longer than the usual three minutes, ask your DJ to fade the ending. Remember: frazzled dancers don't dazzle.

2. Take a couple of dance lessons. Group lessons can be intimidating, but private lessons remove the pressure of dancing for an audience. Your instructor will teach you according to your ability level. With private instruction, beginners can quickly master the basics with confidence. Dancing, like music, lifts the spirit and is so much more enjoyable when shared with your significant other.

3. Decide who leads and who follows. Gender no longer has anything to do with your decision. Choose the pattern that makes you comfortable. There's nothing wrong with following a simple lead. The object of dancing is to enjoy the dance! Being able to follow the leader creates confidence in the follower and makes a more pleasurable dance for the leader, too. If you're feeling brave and brassy, create a dance that switches leads once or twice during the routine.

4. Learn a couple of exciting steps. A pre-planned (choreographed) dip or a twirl makes a splashy statement without the tricky toe work of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. These moves are not only easy, but they offer impressive photo opportunities for still shots and videographers. When you look at them in the future, your photos will take you back to these moments with pride and a satisfied chuckle.

5. Plan your entrance and your exit. Will you clasp hands and kiss before you begin your dance? Will you sashay in from the left and leave to the right? Whatever you decide, be sure to tell your camera operators where and in what direction you will start and finish your dance, as well as any choreographed moves you plan to make. That way, they can prepare to capture the moment in its best light and with the correct angle.

6. Familiarize yourselves with the dance floor. Check out the floor you will dance on. Make sure you know its dimensions. Some styles of dancing (like Foxtrot) require a bigger space. Other styles like nightclub two step don't require much space. Have a good idea of the size and shape your wedding reception dance floor will be so that you can practice and get used to dancing in that amount of space.

7. Practice, practice, practice. Practice on a busy dance floor in a public place. You can also practice at home, of course, (preferably in front of a large, floor-length mirror), but you also need the experience of dancing in front of an audience. Practice your routine at least a couple of times per week, for several weeks, until your feet seem to move without much help from your mind. Concentrate on having fun during your first dance, and your guests will jump to join you on the dance floor.

Recommened Fun Links

Share the details of your wedding through a Wedding Website.

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

Mike Staff is the owner of Mike Staff Productions http://www.mikestaff.com/ an award winning Wedding DJ, Entertainment and Videography Company located in metropolitan Detroit, Michigan. Mike is also a well known Detroit radio personality, having spent over 14 years on-the-air at one of Detroit's most popular music stations, 101-FM WRIF.

© Copyright 2007. Mike Staff Productions, Inc. All rights reserved. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Staff

2/5/08

What You Never Knew About Traditional Irish Weddings

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