9/23/06

Bridal Jewelry to Wear Again and Again

You want your bridal jewelry to make an impression, while not interfering with the “wow factor” of the wedding gown. For some brides, their bridal jewelry exists to be worn at their wedding. Then it goes into the jewelry box or safe to never be worn again. That is just not right!

You took a lot of time choosing the bridal jewelry. It should be a memento that you can wear over and over again. Every time you put it on, you will remember your special day that you became someone’s wife. The cake gets eaten and forgotten. The flowers eventually wilt and die. Your wedding dress gets preserved in the hopes that you can pass it down to your own little girl some day. But your bridal jewelry, that is something you can take out time after time to enjoy. Liken it to the pictures in a photo album. You can relive those moments, then put them away to treasure for another time.

Pearls are often a part of the bridal jewelry. They are classy, elegant and have a timeless quality. No matter what setting it is in – gold, silver or platinum – bridal jewelry pearls can accentuate your features and your wedding dress. Not all pearls are created equal. There are a number of color variations, so you may have to bring your wedding dress with you when selecting your bridal jewelry. A warm, creamy color is one variation of pearls. Another variety has a pinkish hue.

When considering other bridal jewelry options, think about the design of your wedding dress. The neckline is important in your decision of bridal jewelry. If the neckline is high, you can choose a necklace with a special pendant or charm. Perhaps there is no neckline and the wedding gown is strapless. Your choice of bridal jewelry would then be a choker and possibly earrings to match. If the neckline is low or open, you could wear a necklace with complementary earrings. You could forget about the necklace part entirely if the wedding gown is very ornate in the front. If that is the case, then earrings are your best bet in bridal jewelry.

Another thing to think about in selecting bridal jewelry is whether or not the dress is really ornate and elaborate. If it is, perhaps a basic, understated bridal jewelry set is your choice. A simple dress with casual, elegant lines calls for more sophisticated bridal jewelry.

Feeling a bit funky? Punch up your bridal jewelry with a little color. Highlight the wedding colors in your necklace, bracelet and/or earrings. Colorizing your bridal jewelry gives you more options to wear them after the wedding is over too.

Shop around. If you are near a jewelry store while running errands, pop in and browse. Sometimes finding the right bridal jewelry for you will happen when you least expect it. Or, you can sketch out your vision of what you want your bridal jewelry to look like. A business that custom crafts jewelry could probably make what you want. Of course, there is always a higher cost involved for original work.

Just remember, you are the star of the wedding. The bride and wedding dress usually are. Your bridal jewelry reflects the inner you, so wear something that speaks to your heart. Pick something that you can wear again and again. Your memories, thanks to the bridal jewelry, are priceless.


Fun Site

Pure Pearls


See ya tomorrow!

Jasmine


Dave Poon is the owner of Go Wedding Gifts. We take the headache out of selecting gifts for your wedding party, whether they are Bridesmaids or Groomsmen. Come and see our selection of bridesmaid gifts and bridal jewelry at http://www.GoWeddingGifts.com Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dave_Poon http://funweddings.blogspot.com http://funweddings.blog.com www.fun.createswebsites.com

9/21/06

Spinning or Strumming: Choice of Music a Tough Call





Do you want this guy in charge of music at your wedding? Make sure you research your music options well in advance and get recommendations where available.


Every couple wants their wedding to be perfect. From choosing the right wedding dress to making the guests comfortable to picking the right menu at the reception, choices have to be made at seemingly every turn. And music for your wedding is no exception. This decision essentially comes down to choosing a DJ or a band for the wedding reception. Both a DJ and a band come with their advantages and disadvantages. To help you make a more informed decision, here are some things to consider:

· Price:
If you're worried about how to afford the music, you might want to go with a DJ. DJ's are almost always less expensive than a live band. The asking price for a DJ might start out around $1,000 for a typical four-hour reception. If the DJ has a stronger reputation and is known to involve audiences more, this price can double. Meanwhile, most bands can command between $2,500 to $5,000 for the same four-hour period. Plus, with a DJ, you'll only need to provide a courtesy meal for one or two people. A band can have five or more players. That adds up to more out-of-pocket expenses.

· Length of the wedding:
Most receptions last in the neighborhood of four hours, which can be a long time for a band to keep up a full head of steam. They may supplement with pre-recorded music during breaks. If you know your reception might run longer than that, perhaps a DJ is the way to go.

· Size of the reception hall:
Many times the size of the reception hall can help make the decision of a band versus DJ easier for you. Some reception halls aren't quite big enough to hold a band and a dance floor. Such halls may also restrict the type of music that can be played as well.

· Atmosphere:
The degree of formality of a wedding can also dictate which way to go. If you're getting married a little later in life and your guest list is older, then a band is likely the way to go. But if you're getting married in your 20s and your guest list is made up mostly of people of a similar age, then a DJ can be a more fun and suitable option for you and your guests.

· Talk to the DJ/Bandleader:
A good DJ or bandleader can be the emcee of a reception. On the other end of the spectrum, a less-than-personable DJ or bandleader can bring down the mood of what is supposed to be a fun night. Interview a DJ about his music selection and his overall attitude during a performance. To see what a bandleader might be like, ask him about his schedule and try to catch his band's performance at another wedding. You can also ask married friends about bands or DJs they might have used.

There are also many types of bands you can choose from. A band known as a "General Business" band, for instance, is typically very versatile, capable of playing several different styles of music. If your wedding will have a particularly ethnic flavor, there are also numerous bands catering to every ethnicity imaginable.

· Decide early on:
The type of music will likely have to be one of the first decisions you make with regards to your wedding. This is thanks to talented bands or DJs being in high demand come wedding season. Oftentimes, a DJ or a band will have their schedule booked at least a year in advance, meaning you need to know far ahead of time which route you want to take.



Until next time!
Jasmine

http://funweddings.blogspot.com http://funweddings.blog.com www.fun.createswebsites.com http://windsor.weddingwindow.com

9/20/06

Marriage Financial Planning Needed Before the Wedding

When you are thinking about getting married, it is also time to think about your financial plans. When you plan your wedding, you spend a lot of time deciding what you want in personalized wedding favors, wedding accessories, bridesmaid and groomsmen gifts, bridal apparel and even the honeymoon, but haven’t yet planned for the day to day finances after the marriage. Many couples go into marriage with no idea on how to manage their money. Conflicts over money are the number one problem reported by married couples.

Before the wedding, the couple should get together and work out a financial plan. First of all, they should decide which partner should handle the day to day financial affairs. It is common for one spouse to have a good aptitude for money management and organization, while the other spouse does not. It is important to recognize which one has the better skills, and let them keep track of the finances on a daily basis. This would include paying the bills, reconciling the bank statements, and working within a budget or spending plan.

There must always be open communication between both spouses on all financial matters. This is a key point that many couples miss. With the union of a marriage, what was once “yours” now becomes “ours.” A married couple needs to look at their total income, debts and savings as belonging to both of them. In a marriage relationship, two become one; this includes all aspects of your life. You become one in your emotional, physical, spiritual and financial relationships. There is no more “mine,” it becomes “ours.”

Many couples ask if one makes more money than the other, or has more assets than the other, whether those assets should be protected with a prenuptial agreement. It is good to think about how your assets should be distributed in the event of your death, and a prenuptial agreement could address that, but the purpose of a marriage is not for one spouse to be financially independent and the other one not. If you want to have financial peace in the household, then you must communicate together and share equally all financial matters. This does not mean that one spouse cannot spend more than the other spouse, such as on hobbies, if it is agreeable to both spouses.

There is no need to have separate saving or checking accounts. Separate accounts would be more like a roommate relationship. You are not roommates; you are in a committed, lifetime relationship when you get married. Do not keep secret accounts that your spouse does not know about, because sooner or later, the other spouse will find out about it. Putting your money in joint accounts is the best arrangement in most cases, and by having joint accounts with the right of survivorship (JWOS), there are other benefits as well. In the event of a death of one spouse, the ownership will pass directly to the surviving spouse, without having to go through probate and the cost, time, and public record required for probate. So, it is a good idea to have a joint owner or beneficiary on every account.

Working up a budget, or a spending plan, is a very necessary part of financial management. Too many couples have no idea how much they spend each month, compared to how much they earn in income each month. They then end up getting in trouble by running up credit card debt, and other debts that their income cannot pay for. If you have a budget or spending plan, this will help make sure that you are not going to spend more than you make, and will help you achieve financial success, and create the ability to save for things you want in the future, such as for college tuition or retirement. Your housing expenses, including your mortgage payment or rent, insurance, taxes, utilities and repairs and maintenance should be no more than 40% of your gross income. Then allocate your other expenses, such as food, clothing, medical, transportation, and entertainment among the remaining amount you have to spend. You need to build up an emergency saving fund equal to six months of income for emergencies that may arise, and then set up a long term saving and investment plan. Remember to include church and charitable contributions in the plan as well.

Couples must work together in managing their finances in an open, committed relationship so that the two become one in a lifetime, loving family unit.
USEFUL SITE:
Online Legal Forms

Prenuptial Agreement- Short

Prepare a Will online at lawyer-free prices. LegalZoom was created by top attorneys to save you time and money. (CLICK HERE!)

Compare Insurance Quotes and Save! (CLICK HERE!)

PRENUPTIAL AGREEMENTS (CLICK HERE!)


Until Next Time!

Jasmine


Source: http://www.articledashboard.com
Pam is owner of www.WeddingsAreFun.com - Personalized Wedding Favors, Unity Candles, Bridesmaid Gifts and Groomsmen Gifts. She specializes in Personalized Wedding Favors and Gifts. http://funweddings.wordpress.com, http://funweddings.blog.com, http://fun.createswebsites.com

9/19/06

Tailor Honeymoon Travel to Your Personal Style

The Carlton and Grand Canal Hotel in Venice, Italy is perfect for an international getaway.


Couples often focus on personalizing their weddings while neglecting to make their honeymoon uniquely theirs. Are you a formal sophisticate, a laid-back casual, or a romantic escapist? Travel expert Bob Boles of hotelbook.com says the key to a happy honeymoon, besides the companion choice, is to identify your travel style and match your destination accordingly.

"The Internet has provided us with the most useful travel tool available," Boles says. "Couples are now empowered to do their own research on destinations, local events, restaurants, and hotels with the click of a button."

Dedicated to offering couples more alternatives, Boles and his travel team have identified independent and boutique hotels worldwide at www.hotelbook.com for travelers to more easily find the right hotels for their post-nuptial escapes. Drawing from Modern Bride's list of top honeymoon travel destinations, Boles suggests the following hotels for discriminating couples:

· Bermuda's Waterloo House is an elegant five-star destination with 29 luxurious bedrooms, a manor house and surrounding cottages dating back to 1815, amid four acres of terraced gardens by the infamous Hamilton Harbour.

· Miami Beach's Hotel Ocean is a luxury boutique with 27 Mediterranean-themed rooms appointed with original décor and fireplaces. The hotel offers VIP access to trendy nightclubs, restaurants, and a private jet for daytrips to a remote island.

· Also on Ocean Drive, Miami Beach's The Bentley Hotel is a five-star, all-suite hotel with art deco architecture and 53 designer suites. It has an incredible view of the Atlantic from a spacious rooftop sundeck complete with pool and jacuzzi.

· Maui's Prince Hotel Makena Resort is a five-star hotel secluded on a quarter-mile of crescent-shaped Maluaka Beach, and built around an Asian meditation garden. Rooms open to the garden and the ocean, and guests have access to the Makena North Golf Course designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr.

· On the Big Island of Hawaii, the 1800-acre Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, is a five-star destination on Kauna'oa Bay, considered by many to be the island's most beautiful beach. Besides the white sands and shimmering waters, this hotel also offers access to Golf Digest's No. 1-rated golf course in Hawaii, the Mauna Kea Golf Course.

· The Caves in Negril, Jamaica, is an all-inclusive property with vibrant roomy cottages built above natural volcanic caves overlooking the ocean. Complete with a saltwater pool, sauna, hot tub and Jacuzzi, the hotel's 10 handcrafted cottages are set in a garden on the edge of the sea.

· Across the Atlantic in Rome, the Boscolo Exedra Hotel is a five-star white marble palazzo from the 19th century overlooking Michelangelo's Basilica Degli Angeli and situated for discovering the city. The hotel features two exclusive restaurants, a wine bar and champagnerie, as well as a rooftop terrace with pool offering a stunning view of the city.

· Another option for Italian travelers is the Carlton and Grand Canal Hotel in Venice, where 145 rooms in 18th Century Venetian style offer a splendid view of the Canal Grande and the Hotel's traditional courtyard.

Boles encourages couples to educate themselves before settling on a destination, and suggests www.hotelbook.com as a resource for finding and booking independent and boutique hotel finds
.

Fun Site

null

Until Next Time!
Jasmine

9/18/06

The Christmas Wedding

To be merry at Christmas is one thing, but to be married at Christmas is truly romantic and magical. What could be a better time to get married and start a new life than when families come together to celebrate the festive season?

I’m sure there are many ideas that you and your partner can come up with on your own, however, here is a brief outline of some of them that may help you on your way.

VOWS:

• Your vows should come directly from the heart; however, the wording could be played with in order to create a magical feeling for you both.

• As Christmas is a religious time you could always stick with the traditional vows, maybe embellishing upon this for the sake of the Christmas season.

INVITATIONS:

• Leave a little more time before sending your invitations as people’s diaries will be very busy this time of year.

• You can highlight the Christmas theme on your invitations without making it look too much like a Christmas card, for example, simply introducing a border made of white snowflakes around your text.

WEDDING FAVORS:

• Ice cube place card holders
• Treasure ball – filled with Christmas candy
• Holiday ornament candles
• Miniature wedding snow globes
• Personalised Christmas crackers
• Mini Christmas trees

ENTERTAINMENT:

• Ask a children’s choir to sing at the ceremony.
• Hire a wedding magician to give your wedding breakfast a little more….well you know – magical!
• Any singer or band that is willing to either provide part or a whole Christmas show.

DECORATIONS:

• This one is simple – except this time you might not want to let the kids have a go.
• Miniature Christmas trees with lots of presents underneath
• Lots of candle light
• Glitter!

THE CAKE:

• You could have a cake that looks like a stack of Christmas gifts
• Decorate with Iced holly and berries
• Incorporate the traditional colours and symbols

THE ARRIVAL:

• For a true Christmas look you could arrive on a Christmas sleigh with Santa at the reins.
• If you’d prefer to arrive by the normal means you could work a little magic with the decorations.

FLOWERS:

• Check with your florist which flowers are in season over Christmas.
• Bear in mind that flowers can be more expensive this time of year.
• Use holly, pine and sprigs of Ivy.
• Add mistletoe to accent corsages and boutonnieres.
• Place pots of poinsettia in the center of each table, tied with a ribbon trim.

Well that’s a start anyway! Between the two of you, I’m sure you’ll find many more ways in which to make the perfect Christmas wedding.


Fun Product

Adorable Santa Holder with Taper Candle

Santa Holder with Taper Candle - Thick Red Stripes



Jingle Bells Jingle Bells Candles all the way hey! What better way to be festive this holiday season then with this holiday christmas candle line. The Santa Holder with Taper Candle includes the santa holder and taper candle and comes in three different styles. Comes in the thin red stripes the thick red stripes and the red taper with white dots. These are quite large and impressive. Santa Holder with Taper Candle (CLICK HERE!)



Live with Passion!
Jasmine


Article Source: http://www.articeledashboard.com Luca Salamone Website: www.vocalshow.co.uk Biography: Luca is a professional trained vocalist performing for a variety of events including wedding receptions. UK Wedding Singer http://funweddings.blog.com www.fun.createswebsites.com http://windsor.weddingwindow.com

9/16/06

There's a Flower for Every Bride

Your wedding day is the perfect time to stop and smell the roses - or the daisies or the tulips or the hydrangea. A bride's flower options, from her bouquet to the centerpieces, are virtually limitless. If you're having a difficult time choosing the right blooms, consider the type of bride you are. There's a perfect flower for everyone. Here are some suggestions depending upon your own personal style.

THE CLASSIC BRIDE

Silver-screen star Grace Kelly comes to mind when you think of the classic bride: Simple, sophisticated and timeless. She follows all the rules of wedding etiquette, and she takes tradition seriously. The classic brides' current celebrity role model might be someone like Jessica Simpson, who walked down the aisle carrying a bouquet of stephanotis in 2003. White roses or stephanotis with pearl pins in the center are the ideal flowers for the classic bride's bouquet. The classic woman's bridesmaids carry cascading roses in shades that match their dresses. Her groom and ushers sport rose and baby's breath boutonnières. Long-stemmed white roses in tall vases that allow guests to see one another make for traditional, tasteful reception centerpieces.

THE MODERN BRIDE

This bride is up on all the hottest wedding trends, and she's more than happy to include them in her big day. She is in vogue and willing to think outside the box. Debra Messing, the "Will and Grace" star who carried a tall bouquet of calla lilies at her wedding in 2000 to screenwriter Daniel Zelman, is someone the modern bride can emulate. When it comes to the bouquet, she should consider single-flower monochromatic nosegays or calla lilies in white or a bright color. Calla lilies in various shades - from yellow to crimson - are ideal for the modern girl's attendants. Her groom might stick with the traditional rose boutonnière or simply a silk handkerchief tucked in his front pocket, depending upon the affair's degree of formality. Wildflowers for centerpieces or towering trays of cookies or another conversation piece are key signs of a modern bride.

THE GLAMOROUS BRIDE

Diva is the first word that comes to mind when you hear about the glamorous bride. Everything she does makes a dramatic statement. And her flowers - or lack thereof - are no different. Think Melania Knauss, who wed Donald Trump in January 2005. She clutched rosary beads in lieu of a bouquet as she walked down the aisle solo. A glamourous bride who prefers to make a statement with flowers should choose something like orchids, peonies, giant peonies, or black-magic roses. This bride often chooses more sleek and simple flower arrangements for her bridemaids - if she includes them - because she should be the center of attention.

THE ROMANTIC BRIDE

She wants to be a princess for a day and often wears a big frilly dress with lots of regal details. The late Princess Diana is her role model. The romantic bride chooses flowers that are cascading and pastel. Consider dahlias, a baby's breath cloud or a nosegay in a silver or gold cone-shaped vase called a tussy mussy. Tea roses are a great choice for the bridesmiads, and the flower girl wears a wreath of baby's breath in her hair. Decorative reception flowers should be soft and demure in color.


RECOMMENDED READING

The Knot Book of Wedding Flowers

The Knot Book of Wedding Flowers
From bouquets to boutonnieres, corsages to centerpieces, The Knot Book of Wedding Flowers features everything a bride needs to know about those all-important details. This lavishly illustrated book includes more than 150 color photographs and a wealth of useful information. Featuring page after page of beautiful arrangements, a fully photographed glossary of popular wedding flowers, advice on finding and working with a florist, step-by-step instructions for creating a host of floral accents by hand, and explanations of floral terminology, this is a book to be enjoyed well beyond a wedding. From the ceremony arrangements to the posies for the bridesmaids, this comprehensive resource guides the happy couple through every aspect of floral decoration.

Until next time!
Jasmine

http://funweddings.blogspot.com, http://windsor.weddingwindow.com, www.fun.createswebsites.com

Dealing With Wedding Vendors

Even in the bridal industry, there will always be shady people who might be looking to take advantage of a young couple getting married. It could be a wedding photographer who nickels and dimes for every little thing, or even a high priced wedding consultant who has dollar signs in her eyes. To avoid any misunderstandings, headaches and really bad experiences, follow these tips below and you're wedding planning will be worry-free, for the most part.

Establish a contract; this is really a no brainer. If you are dealing with a reputable business, you will find that this is often standard procedure before engaging in any business. Remember; do not to assume anything, always read the fine print and the terms and conditions. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Do not sign anything until you full understand what you are signing for.

It is also important to consider cancellation policies. What happens if you wish to cancel a service you have booked? Will there be fees involved? Dear God, what if the wedding is called off? You have to be sure that there is an escape clause for extreme circumstances such as these. As much as we don’t want to think such horrid thoughts, things do happen all the time.

When dealing with caterers or reception facilities, find out if there are additional fees for set up and clean up. Do not be afraid to ask about charges for cake cutting, coat rooms and corkage fees. All costs should be itemized in the contract and request that no additional fees are to be added after these fees have been agreed upon.

Be sure to inquire about overtime fees. Whether this is for your reception, limousine service or any other service on the day, you do not want to be slapped upside the veil with an unexpected charge for overtime fees. Play it safe and find out what options you have if your wedding runs overtime. Nine times out of ten, they always do.

Be cautious of a deal that seems too good to be true. If you shop around, ask questions and do your homework, you should have a general idea of how much a certain service will cost. If you find an offer that is suspiciously cheap, don't be afraid to ask why. Most likely, it’s not too good to be true; rather, the service is simply horrible.

Double bookings can sometimes happen, particularly during the peak wedding seasons. If you know that another wedding is booked for the same day in the same room as yours, be sure that you specify your exact time, from which hour to which hour you require the room. Remember to allow for enough time to clean-up between weddings. Hopefully, someone on staff will manage their time effectively to avoid any awkward situations.

Don’t be obsessive, don’t compromise, don’t forget about your budget, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Just because you are planning the most important day of your entire life, don’t get too emotional and do not be pressured by slick vendors or high pressure sales tactics. There are enough quality wedding professionals to choose from – you do not want to regret one of these decisions later.

  • Fun Sites:

Create your own Wedding Website (Click Here for a FREE Trial Offer!)

Never pay retail at UltraDiamonds.com (Click Here!)

Bridalocity (Click Here!)

Until Next Time!

Jasmine


is a wedding planning guide that offers a complete array of wedding article, vendors, tips and free wedding resources. Britopian Marketing is a consulting firm that offers internet marketing services for small business. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Brito www.fun,createswebsites.com, http://windsor.weddingwindow.com

9/14/06

Create Homemade Invitations

If you are throwing a party, part of the planning will involve letting the guests know about the event. Invitations sent through the mail are one of the easiest and most traditional ways of sharing the news. Yet, your invitations don't just have to be the preprinted ones bought at your local card shop. You can use creativity and some items at hand to design invitations geared to the theme of your party. Here are some ideas for creating winning invitations:

· Cut and paste: Here's a way to let your creativity shine. Cut out pictures from magazines, printed from the Internet or any other media, that follow the theme of your party and paste them on card stock of your choice. Purchase the stock at a stationary store or a craft center. For example, if you're hosting a bridal shower, select pictures of wedding dresses, bouquets and cakes. Include the information about the party in the same way - cut out the date, address and party location from similar sources. One advantage is that each guest will have a unique invite to remember the event.

· Use creative materials: For smaller parties (where you won't want to incur large postage costs), consider using decorative bottles, tubes and other interesting packaging materials to hold a rolled-up invitation. It will lend an old-fashioned, romantic feel, and be an invitation your guests will certainly remember.

· Let food lead the way: How about using food items as invites? Bake a batch of sugar cookies in a shape that correlates with the theme of your party (like a balloon, gift box, etc.) Frost them, then use edible decorating pens to write the information on the cookies. Just be sure to package carefully so the cookies won't crumble en route!

· Consult the inner graphic designer: A home computer is a perfect tool for creating invitations. Whether you choose to design and print your invitation from scratch use specialty papers with decorative borders and themes. Or use the many invitation kits available at stationery and office-supply stores. The possibilities are endless. Embellish your invitations with ribbon, vellum paper, or confetti tucked inside the envelope.

· Get computer savvy: If you prefer not to use snail mail to send out your invitations, you can design e-mail cards as well. Many online sites offer guest list maintenance and reply options to make it convenient. Just point and click to invite your friends and family.

· A photo tells the story: A simple design strategy is just to place a favorite photo on the invitation (such as a portrait or candid of your child for a birthday party). You can print them up yourself, or use a service that will print photo cards, like one at a neighborhood store or through the Internet, for a cost slightly above normal photo developing charges.

Whatever method of inviting your guests you choose, just remember to clearly spell out the details of the event and include a "respond by" (RSVP) date and phone number. In addition, include directions to the party location for out-of-town guests.


Fun Ideas:




PrintingPress Software for Invitations and Announcements (Click Here!)

Until Next Time!
Jasmine


http://funweddings.blogspot.com/ , www.fun.createswebsites.com, http://windsor.weddingwindow.com

9/12/06

Seaside Wedding Ceremonies

The setting sun, the roaring waves, your true love. Have a dream wedding ceremony on edge of the ocean using our ideas for unique ways to include nature in your promises.

Oceanic Readings.
Incorportate the sea's power into your ceremony by using readings and poems that reflect your love for the waves as much as your love for one another.

Rites of the Ocean.
You may want to incorporate your surroundings into your ceremony. For example, instead of a unity candle, each of you pour sand into one container symbolizing both the endurance of time as well as unity. Or, if you're having your ceremony around sunset, create vows that have to do with new days dawning, planets revolving around the sun, or the promise of a new day with each sunset. For your vows, make a circle of seashells for you both to stand inside.

Creative entrances and exits.
Since this is an unusual wedding environment, why not use your imagination when deciding where to walk down the aisle/ have guests seated/ leave the ceremony? Try making a grand entrance from behind some sea oats, or leading all your guests to the appointed wedding spot on the beach. After the ceremony is finished, you and your new husband can take a walk on the beach while your guests are bustling to the reception.

Honoring your family.
Instead of presenting mothers with flowers, give shells instead. Ask your father to walk down the beach with you for a way before the ceremony begins, and then turn around for a gentle stroll right up to your guests and groom. Adorn mothers and fathers with Hawaiin leis at the beginning of the ceremony, a welcome symbol you can use to symbolize welcoming them into a new family.
___________________________________________________

Fun Idea:

________________________________________________________

www.fun.createswebsites.com, http://windsor.weddingwindow.com, http://funweddings.blogspot.com © Copyright 2003 Red Galoshes, Inc. All rights reserved.

Wedding Photography Tip Sheet

A wedding photo album is something that most couples cannot do without. After all, photos in addition to a wedding video are the only ways to capture the exact moments and emotions of the day. As a result, you want quality photos from your photographer so that you'll have wonderful images that will last a lifetime.

There are several steps you can take to ensure you receive beautiful photos. Naturally, the key is finding a reputable photographer who can offer the types of shots you desire. Here are some pointers to keep in mind when selecting a photographer and arranging wedding photos.

* When interviewing photographers, ask to see photos from a complete wedding. Any photographer, even a poor one, can piece together a portfolio of his best work. By viewing all the photos from a particular wedding, or even better, the proofs, you can get an idea if the photographer knows his stuff. Your best bet is to go with a referral. If you loved your cousin's photographer, book with him.

* Set aside enough time for photos. Don't book your ceremony and reception back to back, otherwise the photographer might feel rushed, and it will be evident in your photos.

* Clearly spell out the types of photos you'd like in your contract. If you want photos with all your family members, a shot with your prized pooch or any other particular photos, be sure to speak up.

* Get all extras and special services in writing. Black-and-white photography, digital enhancements and extra prints may cost more. Don't be caught off guard when the bill arrives.

* Confirm all details a few days before. Provide directions to and from your home, church and reception site. No one wants a photographer who is missing in action.


Fun Products:
Lenox Wedding Promises

Lenox Wedding Promises Silverplated Photo Album

A pair of hearts - a window to the happy couple's world. And these romantic symbols grace the silverplated cover of a beautiful photo album. An etched floral design surrounds the hearts and the double-side design is tied with a velvet ribbon. On the back, an area is specially reserved for engraving. This sleeved album holds 112 4" x 6" photos. It's the perfect wedding gift.

Lenox Wedding Promises Silverplated Photo Album (Click Here)


Until Next Time!
Jasmine


www.fun.createswebsite.com http://windsor.weddingwindow.com http://funweddings.blogspot.com

9/11/06

How to Request a Woman's Hand in Matrimony


(CL) -- The manner in which a man requests a woman's hand in matrimony is very important and shows the kind of respect, accord and communication on which the foundation of marriage will be constructed. The value of this first ceremony of marriage is almost as palpable, one may say, that it transcends many cultures.

Why? Due to the fact that this ceremony constitutes an act of integrity where a bride's parents are put on a pedestal and informed of the couple's future wedding plans-plans that in the majority of cases have the bride leaving her parent's home to start a new life with her husband and raise a family of her own.

Requesting a woman's hand in matrimony is a very ancient and international tradition. In the past, this ceremony-besides bestowing the respective honors - occurred in order to examine the economic interests of both families. Nowadays, the basic elements behind this act remain the same: the parents of the groom are introduced to the bride's parents; they get together and are informed of their children's decision.

Although it seems pretty simple, everyone who has lived this moment knows that (unless parents of both parties know each other for years or that the bride and groom have dated for such a long period of time that the parents already know each other) this is a very tense and formal ceremony.

What to keep in mind

Both the bride and groom should understand that the act of requesting a woman's hand in matrimony would make their already accepted commitment more formal for both families. Each family has its own custom so it is very important that these traditions are taken into account in order to avoid offending anyone.

The parties should also take into account the main objective for this reunion, which is their children's intense love that for one reason or another had led them into matrimony. The parents of the bride should be thanked for the protection and guidance they have given their daughter; it has made her into the woman with whom the groom wants to share the rest of his life.

Advice

The bride and groom should set a date for this ceremony that is at least two weeks in advance and communicate it to their parents.

The ceremony should not take place too late in the day, since this is a sign of disrespect to both parties. It is also a custom that the groom sends a gift to the bride and future mother-in-law that morning (flowers for example).

Stay calm and avoid succumbing to the obstacles that may arise that day. Avoid discussing petty issues.

Attire should be formal, the groom must wear a suit and tie and the bride should wear an elegant dress.

Keep in mind that a wedding comes filled with expenses and the ring is one of the most indispensable. Do not hold back with this token and do try to surprise the bride with the ring. It's important to know the size of her ring finger. Imagine ruining a beautiful dinner and lovely speech with a bride who is trying to fit a tiny ring on her finger or a ring that is so large that it is double in size.

FUN SITE:
Perfect gifts for your wedding party. Shop now at Zales.com (Click Here)


Until Next Time!
Jasmine

www.fun.createswebsites.com http://windsor.weddingwindow.com http://funweddings.blogspot.com

9/10/06

Do I really need a Wedding Website?

Do I really need a Wedding Website?
Many engaged couples are asking themselves this question as a very popular trend snowballs through the wedding industry. Before I got engaged I certainly wouldn't have considered getting a personal website to post personal information and pictures about myself, so the idea seemed bizarre to me too. Then, about a month after my fiancée proposed, I visited a friend's wedding website and realized it was more of a necessity as a means to distribute information, than about vanity at all.

As it turned out, our wedding website was one of the best parts about our wedding. The site allowed us to build a lot of momentum towards the big day. People felt a part of the planning and our families and friends who hadn't met John or myself got to learn more about us, which made a big difference on our wedding day.

We both have big families and had many people coming from out of town. The website allowed us to put all of the travel information (air, car, hotel) in one spot that everyone had access to. There was also tons of information about our city available on our site, which was great for people who had never been to Boston before.

We made sure to include a little card in our invitation that informed everyone that all information regarding the wedding such as details and maps of events would be posted on our website. This saved us many phone calls with questions about where and when each event was taking place. Our guests loved the RSVP feature, 75% of our guests replied on line ! People really seemed to prefer responding by email instead of snail mail. Once they were on the site, the online registry also made it very convenient for our guests to give us gifts that we actually wanted.

Due to my chronic shyness, I thought you had to be an exhibitionist to consider getting a website. The truth is, it gave many people who didn't know us, a great way to learn about each of us through our story, biographies and pictures. People seemed to really like the Poll and Quiz which we updated a few times before and after the wedding. We were able to stretch out our incredible wedding for a long time as people went to the site to see our pictures and send wonderful comments through the guest book for weeks after the wedding.

We couldn't believe how easy it was to create our site. It really was just filling in forms online. All the work was done for us, and the designs were just great. We also really appreciated that it did not cost a fortune and that we were able try it before we bought it before committing to what was a thoroughly enjoyable process from beginning to end.

As you can see the website was a huge success with our guests who came to the wedding, but it was equally gratifying for our friends and family around the world who couldn't make it. Witness my 94 year old grandmother who was actually able to take part in my wedding even though she couldn't leave her house. So in answer to the question posed in the title of this letter, this former skeptic highly recommends a wedding website for every engaged couple!

To learn more, visit weddings.myevent.com (Click Here!)


www.fun.createswebsites.com http://windsor.weddingwindow.com http://weddingsbyashlee.com

9/9/06

Crash Course in Wedding Registry 101


Congratulations: You are getting married! One of the fun parts of the pre-wedding whirlwind is that you get to register for all the supplies you'll need to start your new home.

First, take stock of what you have and will keep, and what you need and want. Think about everything from barware to bedding, and don't forget about formal dinnerware. Even though you may not be ready to serve a three-course meal on fine china this year, it might be in your entertaining future.

Next, make a list of your desired items and how many of each you'll need. Plan to register at two to four stores that are easily accessible for guests. Even better, pick a place that offers your registry online or via fax or phone. Look for stores that have the brands and styles you want in a variety of price ranges, and carry both traditional products like a meat grinder and vegetable people, and fun ones like an ice cream maker or pizza stone.

Ask how the retailer maintains your registry. If an item is purchased, when will it be reflected on your list ... in 10 minutes or 48 hours? You want it update fast to help prevent you from getting three coffeepots when you only asked for one.
While you will get many gifts in person, some may come through the mail. Make sure gifts can be shipped to an address that's convenient for you, whether it be your home, office, your mom's house, etc. That way, you can easily receive your gifts. This arrangement also benefits guests who may not want to carry a heavy gift to your engagement party, bridal shower or the wedding itself.

Look for a registry that will stay posted for at least a year after your wedding date. Some people prefer to purchase an item after the wedding as a housewarming gift. In addition, others may look to your registry for gift ideas for anniversaries or other milestones.

Getting doubles of gifts is just unavoidable, and some folks simply prefer to get you a unique gift that wasn't on your registry at all. But you needn't be stuck with three vases that look alike. Find out about the store's exchange and return policy. Some questions to keep in mind: How long do you have before you can return or exchange an item? Do all items fall under the exchange and return umbrella or just some?

Don't be afraid to ask about the fringe benefits. Sometimes you can get discounts on any registry items that aren't purchased. You may get a percentage off of anything on your registry for a year after your wedding, or you may get the discount on a one-time shopping spree. Ask registry consultants about discount specifics.

Once you choose where you will register, set up an appointment. You may be walked around the store by a registry specialist or be able to register yourself with a hand-held scanner. Whatever you do, take your time. You can always come back later to add items or delete some should you change your mind. (You can often manage your registry online from your home computer so you don't have to do it all at the store itself.)

Remember that's it's okay to register for a lot of items. That way, you give your guests plenty of gift-giving options in a range of prices. You may also want to register for necessities first, like coffee mugs, and then add on specialty items like a cappuccino maker after the essentials are bought. That way, you aren't stuck with a cappuccino maker but no cups.

Keep back-up items in mind. Since you are registering in advance of your wedding, certain items may become discontinued before your big event occurs. Check your registry often for such cases, and add replacement items instead.

Most importantly, don't forget to express your gratitude for your registry gift (or any gift for that matter) with a handwritten thank-you note. Remember, even though you've registered and are getting married, gifts are not mandatory. Show guests you appreciate their thoughtful gesture.

SIDEBAR Registering Checklist

FLATWARE

  • butter knife
  • salad servers
  • serving spoons (slotted)
  • serving forks
  • soup ladle

GLASSWARE

  • wine glasses
  • water goblets
  • juice glasses
  • champagne flutes
  • ice bucket and tongs
  • margarita and/or martini glasses

DINNERWARE

  • coffeepot
  • teapot
  • gravy boat and stand
  • salt and pepper shakers
  • serving bowls
  • salad bowl
  • serving trays
  • soup tureen
  • cake plate
  • butter dish
  • china place settings (dinner plate, salad/dessert plate, bread and Butter plate, teacup and saucer)
  • casual place settings (dinner plate, salad/dessert plate, soup/cereal bowl, mug)

KITCHENWARE CHECKLIST

  • Coffee grinder
  • tea kettle
  • blender
  • coffeemaker
  • food processor
  • toaster
  • skillet
  • saucepan with lid
  • roasting pan
  • colander
  • casserole dish
  • baking sheets, cake pans, muffin tins
  • measuring cups/spoons
  • steak knives, bread knife, paring knife, sharpening tool
  • kitchen shears
  • handmixer
  • slow cooker

LINENS AND BATH GEAR

  • sheet sets for main and guest bedrooms
  • down comforter/duvet cover
  • bed skirt, mattress pad, blankets
  • pillows and decorative pillows
  • bath towels, hand towels, wash cloths, guest towels
  • bath mats
  • scale
  • electric toothbrush
  • hamper

Fun Sites:

Getting married? Create a registry and start planning your wedding today. Attending a wedding? Find a registry and buy a gift (CLICK HERE!)

Until Next Time!

Jasmine :)

http://funweddings.blogspot.com http://weddingsbyashlee.blogs.com

9/7/06

Second weddings, another chance at love



(CL) - For those of us who are lucky enough to have been given a second chance at love, a second wedding means a new beginning filled with hopes and dreams. The joie de vivre is rehashed and a desire to rejoice manifests itself. So why shouldn't you celebrate this special occasion with friends and family?

Although there are a few changes in etiquette in regards to how you should celebrate a second wedding, the bride and groom have the exact same dreams. Maybe with a just a little bit more maturity this time around and an even stronger conviction; but age and failed former relationships are not as important as the wedding celebration! So let's go over a few tips on how to prepare a delightful marriage ceremony.

How to make the announcement: If there are any children from previous relationships, they should be the first ones who should find out about the upcoming nuptials. Try to respond immediately to any questions they may have about the new living situation. Their other parent should also be informed of the wedding as soon as possible. Ex-husbands and ex-wives as well as former in-laws should be informed of your future plans, so you can maintain a good relationship for the benefit of the children. After that's all said and done, feel free to make a formal wedding announcement in your local paper.

Who to invite: It all depends on the type of wedding that you have in mind. Generally, the bride and groom plan the event without relying on their parents' pocketbook. Second weddings are generally more sophisticated and intimate than first weddings. Some couples opt for an elegant dinner, inviting only their closest relatives and friends. However, others offer a wedding reception that can vary in size and scope. There is really no set rule.

Should the bride wear white? There is really no reason why she should not wear white. Nowadays, the color white symbolizes the joy of the celebration. She should, however, select a dress design with a proper degree of formality. Wedding gowns that are shorter in length are popular, and so are the always-elegant full-lengths. The headdress should be more sophisticate, like discrete flowers or an elegant hat. On the other hand, veils are not recommended for second weddings because they have traditionally been associated with virginity.

What about traditions? Of course they also have a place in the celebration. The toast, tossing the bridal bouquet, throwing rice to send-off the bride and groom to their honeymoon. All these customs can be included in a second wedding. There is no reason that this occasion should not be a special moment where you celebrate a new beginning. NC066049

Fun Ideas:

Official New Bride Name Change Kit

Official New Bride Name Change Kit (Click Here!)


Until next time!
Jasmine


http://windsor.weddingwindow.com http://funweddings.blogspot.com

Three Ways to Cut Cake Costs

The wedding cake you've fantasized about can also be the one your wallet says "yes" to. Here are some great ideas for a more affordable - but still gorgeous - wedding cake.

Get a smaller cake. Show off the beautiful wedding cake for everyone to see, then have a sheet cake of the same flavor cut in the back.

Make mini cakes. Instead of one large cake, split up the cost and ask your baker to make every guest a cupcake of your favorite flavor instead. Top each with something pretty, and build a 'wedding cake' tower of your fabulous cupcakes.

Offer a dessert bar. Another great way to offer dessert while having a smaller cake: set up a dessert bar with mini pastries and coffee to offset a piece of wedding cake.

______________________________________________________

***Fun Ideas***

wedding cake boxes

"With this decorative favor set, now your guests can take a slice of cake home figuratively speaking. Imported directly from Italy, these off-white embossed boxes are a replica of a slice of cake, with each slice wrapped with a satin ribbon and accented with an ivory flower. Filled inside are candies. Display the boxes in a circular pattern to form a two tiered cake. Makes a beautiful presentation as a centerpiece for each table.

Wedding Cake Boxes (Click Here!) - ADORABLE!

_________________________________________________

http://windsor.weddingwindow.com http://funweddings.blogspot.com http://funweddings.blogspot.com http://funweddings.blog.com http://funweddings.wordpress.com

9/5/06

Can you have a lifelong love affair. and be married?

"Yes, as long as it's with your spouse! And it's not difficult, so it's sad so few couples succeed," says Charlie Michaels who has been living this dream for 25 years with her husband Mike Brown.

"We were clueless until a couple who had been happily married for 50 years shared their secret with us," Michaels said. "Their advice was simple: Individually and separately write down all of your expectations of marriage, compare them and agree how you will handle your differences.
"This was brilliant, because most of the disappointments in our lives are not that the actual situation is so terrible, but rather we become upset when reality differs from what we expected."

By identifying expectations you share, you build confidence, trust and develop a common focus. Uncovering differences doesn't harm your relationship as many couples fear, but merely highlights possible hotspots. By agreeing now how you will handle these differences, you turn potential disagreements into non-issues. If you wait until problems actually arise, you are much more likely to have arguments than discussions.

This process builds a strong foundation under the dreams you've been sharing, strengthens your relationship, eliminates doubts and allows you to know each other better than many couples do after years of marriage.

"Once you start talking, you realize that you have expectations for just about everything - some make you laugh, others get you talking," Charlie said. "One of our differences had to do with ironing. Mike had expected me to do the ironing. I don't iron, period. Our negotiated 'compromise' was that Mike would either send his clothes out to be ironed, iron them himself or wear them wrinkled!

"On a more serious note, we made several agreements that probably saved our marriage. One had to do with how we would spend money if we were financially destitute . a situation we never expected to face, but did within two years of getting married."

The Browns summarized their agreements into a written list called a Marriage Pact. Mike adds, "It's sort of like a sports team's playbook because we know what each of us is supposed to do in a given situation. Living by these agreements minimizes conflict and provides guidelines that make difficult decisions less traumatic. This has enabled us to enjoy each other's love and support through several situations that would have ended a weaker marriage."

Every couple's Pact will be different. In their book, "Mastering Marriage," the Browns give step-by-step directions for creating your unique Marriage Pact. Also included are other secrets they use to keep love alive, including their favorite, which only takes one second a day! Interesting quotes, real-life examples and cartoons make it a fun read.

The beautiful hardcover edition makes a perfect engagement, shower or wedding gift.

Recommended Books:
Mastering Marriage (Click Here!)

The Marriage Pact Questionnaire Playbook (Click Here!)

Charlie and Mike claim their ideas will help you be pleased with the choices you make and even happier and more in love years from now than you are today. Their readers believe them.

Until Next Time!
Jasmine

http://funweddings.blogspot.com

For the Groom's Eyes Only!




The wedding proposal has taken place and a date has been set.The preparations begin and the bride starts to steal all the attention. Of course, the bride will be the center of attention at the wedding. Everybody awaits her entrance at the church, to admire (or criticize) her dress, veil and flowers. However, there cannot be a bride without a groom. So let's take time to focus solely on him. Because a man in love has his own dreams for his special day and he wants everything to be perfect, too.

Let's take a look at how the groom can participate in the wedding plans. The most important thing for him to do is to avoid assuming a passive attitude when preparation time comes around. Besides having the satisfaction of partaking in the details of his own wedding, his bride will also appreciate the effort. The groom should discuss his own wishes with the bride. He should go with her on shopping trips and help decide on what flowers, photographer and reception hall to select.

It is his responsibility to choose a best man, although he should discuss how many ushers and bridesmaids to include in the bridal party. The bride and groom together should select the style and color of the suits and dresses for the bridal party. The groom should choose an appropriate tuxedo/ suit to wear at the ceremony. And he should also talk about it with his bride so that it won't clash with her gown.

The following are a few extra tips for the groom:

First of all, consider the time of day that the wedding will take place and the formality of the ceremony and reception. If it is an evening formal ceremony, the groom's tuxedo and the ushers' tuxedos should be identical. The only difference is the boutonnieres or flower worn on the lapel. In formal day weddings and semi-formal ones, the ushers can wear suits of a different color.

In regards to color, black remains a favorite. Because besides being elegant, it is appropriate at any time of the day, any time of the year and in all styles of weddings. The shirt should be white on white, with a pleated front for formal and semi-formal weddings and white with a classic cut for informal weddings. Pastels and T-shirts are definitely out!

The groom is responsible for delegating the responsibility for fittings at the tailor shop to his best man, who should then inform each usher on when to go for a fitting and when to pick up the tux/suit. Likewise, the best man is in charge of making sure that the ushers return the rentals to the tailor after the ceremony, so the groom can enjoy his honeymoon.

There is definitely no other way for a groom to begin his happily married life, than by taking part in the event that marks the beginning of it all

Fun Site:
Create your own bottle of wine! (Click Here!) ~ Cute idea for your wedding!

Until Next Time!
Jasmine

http://funwedding.blogspot.com

9/4/06

Wedding Receptions ~ Unique Ideas

When it comes to wedding receptions, couples are looking for ways to give a unique, personal flair to their celebration, says Beverly Clark, wedding book author, and designer of the Beverly Clark Collection. "More and more brides and grooms want to express their own style, and they don't want to have a cookie-cutter wedding," she says. "So they are branching out to more elaborate and unique receptions, locations and themes." For example, Clark says that, most recently, her No. 1 selling wedding collection has been her beach-themed Seashore Collection, with many couples opting to get married on the beach and then tie in sand and seashell décor with their reception.

How can you add some personal touches to your wedding?

· Slideshows. During the reception, present a slideshow set to music with photos of you and your spouse from birth to present.

· Themes. Incorporate you and your spouse's heritage into the décor and food. Some possible wedding themes may also stem from your favorite hobby, a season, a historical period (such as the Roaring '20s or Renaissance eras), or a fairytale theme complete with a castle-shaped wedding cake.

· Creative table numbers. Instead of using numbers to identify tables, name your tables after phrases or words that have special meaning to you as a couple, such as your favorite travel spots.

· Monograms. Make your name part of the day. For example, wedding planner Tracie Morris had a client whose new last name started with an "M," so the couple put the letter "M" on top of their wedding cake and on their cocktail napkins. They also used a video projector to project an "M" onto the dance floor during the couple's first dance as husband and wife.

· Poetry. Write letters or poems to one another and read it during the reception.

Fun Sites:

WhereBridesGo.com : Everything for your wedding! (Click Here!)

Until Next Time!
Jasmine


http://funweddings.blogspot.com http://windsor.weddingwindow.com

9/2/06

Be Aglow at Your Wedding: Start Caring for Your Skin Ahead of Time



.


Brides come in all ages and planning a wedding can be exceedingly stressful on anybody, no matter what the age. If you, as the bride, have handled everything perfectly, those few days before the wedding could still take their toll on your health and especially on your skin.

On her wedding day, every bride wants to have her skin radiant and free from lines and pimples, so she looks her best, and her photos and videos come out looking perfect. No bride wants to even imagine the possibility that, one day, her offspring might gaze at their parents' wedding photos and remark on the blemish over their mother's right nostril.

Telling a bride-to-be to avoid stress and to take things lightly is easier said than done; nevertheless, taking care of the skin, despite the stress and a busy schedule, is not only possible but it is a must.

* Start at least a month or two before the wedding date to personally care for your skin every day. If you are the outdoors type or your skin has been neglected for years, then begin much earlier, even before you hire the wedding planner or the photographer.

* If you suffer from acne, rosacea, or any other skin condition, make sure to see a dermatologist months before the wedding. There are wonderful medicated creams on the market available with prescription that can prevent acne or rosacea outbursts on your wedding day.

*Sun protection should have been your habit all along; however, if you have neglected that, it is never too late to start. If you have to be out under the sun, use wide brimmed hats, sunglasses, umbrellas, and especially sunscreen lotion. Even the smallest dose of UVA rays can take their toll on the human skin. The best use you can get from a sunscreen lotion is if you choose one with an SPF of 15-30 and apply it every few hours. After you apply the lotion, stay indoors or in the shade for a few minutes to let the skin absorb the lotion.

* Before you put the sunscreen on, fortify your skin with a vitamin C lotion. With some women, vitamin C softens the skin lines and helps the sunscreen protect the skin better.

*Exfoliate you skin often if your skin is rough. If your skin is very tender, keep the exfoliating to once a month. To exfoliate, first cleanse your skin with a facial cleanser, or if you like, lukewarm distilled water. Then, apply an exfoliating gel or cream and rub into the skin with small circular motions. Rinse with warm water and pat dry with a warm towel. Never use products or devices like washcloths, loofahs, or puff buffs on your face. They are known to gather bacteria easily.

* Hydration of the skin is easy and can be done with the most common materials. Add a few drops of oil to a bowl of steaming hot water. Johnson's baby oil will do just fine, unless you want to use one your favorite oils or herbal solutions. Lean over the bowl until your face is about 8-12 inches away. Cover your head with a towel to capture the steam and relax for 15 minutes. Do this every day if you can.

* If at all possible, about three months before the wedding date, see a dermatologist or add an over the counter retinoid (Vitamin A Cream) to your daily skin care, if you are not already using one. Do not go under the sun immediately after applying a retinoid; wait at least fifteen minutes to half an hour. The most feasible skin care method for busy working women is a retinoid to be applied at night. If you are susceptible to dark circles under the eyes, an undereye lotion with alpha-hydroxy acids could be added to your daily care.

* If your skin is excessively dry, adding aloe Vera lotion or gel-mask to your daily regimen will help greatly.

* Avoid aggressive and experimental treatments, tanning, and facial waxing, one to two weeks before the wedding.

* Try to eat a well-balanced diet with extra fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens. They will help your skin and your figure at the same diet.

Give your skin a chance, and have your family and friends watch its glow match the glow in your eyes on your wedding day.

_____________________________________________________

Fun Site:

Share your wedding with friends and family by creating your very own Wedding Website. Click here for a free trial.

______________________________________________


This article has been submitted by Joy Cagil in affiliation with http://www.Prye.Com/ which is a site for Wedding Invitations. Joy Cagil is a writer on writing.com. http://funweddings.blogspot.com

8/31/06

Favors Around the World


In most cultures the wedding favor is an important symbol, saying "thank you for coming". Here are some takes on the wedding favor from around the world.

Italy
Italians give chocolates or candy filled with almonds or almond paste.

Middle East
Wedding favor tradition is centered around the Jordan almond. A candy-coated nut supposedly representing both the bitter and the sweet of marriage.

Malaysia
The traditional wedding favor is painted, decorated eggs - a symbol of fertility for the couple.

Russia and Japan
Both favor the same kinds of favors: both cultures are known for leaving nice gifts like picture frames, bud vases, or sachets as thank-yous.

The Netherlands
Favor tradition includes "Bridal Sugar" - five pieces of Dutch sweet candy wrapped in tulle. Each piece represents the five wedding wishes: love, happiness, loyalty, prosperity, and verility.

Ireland
The chime of bells is thought to restore harmony if a couple is fighting, and remind them of their wedding vows. Giving a bell as a gift to guests has become an Irish tradition.

Fun Sites:

Traditional Wedding Favor Bell (Click Here)
Small Heart Chocolate Box (Click Here)

Until Next Time!
Jasmine

http://funweddings.blogspot.com/
© Copyright 2003 Red Galoshes, Inc. All rights reserved