Wedding Music - The Frugal Bride's Guide to Wedding Entertainment

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Every bride worth her weight in tulle knows - when all is said and done – your guests may not quite recall the centerpieces, but all will remember whether (or not) they had a good time. That elusive “fun factor” rides undeniably on the quality of your wedding entertainment. Of course, like everything having to do with weddings, the high price tag of wedding entertainment can intimidate the budget conscious bride. I don’t recommend sacrificing the vibe in the name of savings, so I’ve uncovered some creative budget saving tips that will ensure your guests dance the night away:

DJ Vs. Band -

It’s the age-old argument, but when it comes to your entertainment budget – the DJ usually wins the price war (unless of course DJ AM is on your vendor list). That said, if your ideal wedding reception includes drums and a wedding singer, you can still fit live music into your budget. Limit the number of pieces in your band, and save about $150 per musician. Or hire a band for cocktail hour and the first dances, then switch to a DJ for the final foot stomping moments of your reception – a budget-friendly best of both worlds!

Be an Off-Peak Bride -

A wedding does not necessarily have to take place on a Saturday night in the spring or summer, and if you're willing to be flexible with your date and time, you can drastically cut the costs of almost all wedding services - including wedding music. Most bands and DJs offer discounts for off-peak times.

Beware the Overtime -

Most entertainment books for a four hour time block. Think your reception might run longer? Book ‘em for five, and be on the safe side. An extra hour of wedding music in advance is usually cheaper than a steep overtime fee.

Ceremony Savings -

Ceremony musicians can tack on an extra $500-$1000 to your entertainment costs. Consider some musical alternatives, and pocket the extra cash. If your ceremony site boasts a respectable sound system, round up some classical CDs and someone reliable to cue the music – and voila – instant background music. Or better yet, ask a talented friend or family member to perform during the ceremony (a perfect job for that cousin you couldn’t quite squeeze into your wedding party). You’ll cut costs and give a special person a significant role on your special day.

Go Amateur -

Check out local universities for qualified and inexpensive musicians. Music professors and department heads can recommend the best students in the program. We do say this with caution – because a bad band can kill the party. Talented amateur musicians do exist, but be sure to hear them in person before making the hire.

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

For more ideas on planning your wedding entertainment, visit Elegala.com's complete wedding music planning guide. http://funweddings.blog.com http://merrybrides.wordpress.com http://weddingsbyashlee.blog.com

Let Them Eat Wedding Cake - Without Eating Up Your Wedding Budget

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

Cut that Guest List

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

Hip to be Square

A cake square in shape yields more slices than one that is round with the same dimensions. So go square – and make a deliciously modern statement!

Go Natural

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

Keep It Simple

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

One Stop Shopping

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

"Dummy Cakes"

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

Outside the Proverbial Cake Pan

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

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Elegala.com and Elegala Magazine. Elegala is a new wedding planning resource offering the most comprehensive portfolio of superior wedding reception sites and wedding services, along with planning tips, photo galleries and checklists to keep brides in-the-know on today's wedding trends and styles. For a complete guide to creating an elegant and memorable wedding celebration, visit Elegala.com, your ultimate wedding planning resource. Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cori_Locklin For more inpiration on planning your wedding cake, visit our complete wedding cake planning guide http://funweddings.blog.com http://merrybrides.wordpress.com http://weddingsbyashlee.blog.com

8 Questions Brides Ask About Setting up a Wedding Registry

In theory, setting up a registry is simple. You decide on one or several stores, create a registry online or in person, select various items, and get the word out to your guests. In practice, things are a little more complicated -- but only a little!

With that said, here's the real deal on setting up your wedding registry and getting the word out without offending your guests. Remember that retailers can be an enormous help to both you and your guests. At the same time, you can't take everything they say at face value.

Q: Where should I register?

A: Chances are, if you're getting married in your own town, you already know where "everyone goes" to set up and shop from a registry. If not, and guests are flying in from far away, pick from some bride-tested standbys likely to be present almost anywhere. Macy's has a great reputation for registries, as does, Bed Bath & Beyond and other retailers.

Before you choose your stores, be sure to stop by a wedding forum and get feedback from brides who have been there, done that. Store policies vary quite dramatically, ranging from the easy-does-it (who'll give you cash back for returns off the registry, no questions asked) to the extremely restrictive (who'll only let you exchange for another item *in that department*, requires a receipt for each item, and so on). You'll want to know about these policies and the store's overall reputation for bridal friendliness before you go in, or returns and exchanges could become a big hassle.

Q: I have a wide range of interests. How many stores should I register at?

A: Two to three stores is fairly typical. They don't have to be typical stores, though. If you're a wine drinker, and live in a state where it's legal to ship wine, set up a registry at one of the great online wine merchants.

Q: When should I register?

A: Although close family members may pressure you to start earlier, it's helpful to wait three to six months before the wedding. Not only are the vast majority of gifts bought within a day or so of the shower or ceremony itself, stores turn over merchandise so rapidly that any gifts you select earlier may be discontinued.

Q: What if I already have all the kitchen appliances and throw pillows I need?

A: Consider putting together a honeymoon registry instead, so guests can contribute toward a special meal or snorkeling trip or a night's lodging during your honeymoon.

Q: When I signed up at Store X, they gave me a bunch of attractive registry cards to enclose with my wedding invitations. Should I do it, or is that tacky?

A: Sorry, but the consensus is almost universal -- it's uncouth to include any mention of gifts in your invitations. You can, however, tuck those cards into shower invitations. Perhaps the best solution is to include a note in your invitations that reads, "Please see our wedding web site at www.xyz.com" and place your registry information there.

Q: How many gifts should I register for? I don't want to look demanding.

A: Typically, you'll want to select two or three items per guest. That gives people room to choose instead of locking them into something they don't enjoy buying, or worse, forcing them to guess what else you might like, giving birth to the "second yogurt maker" type of gift.

If you have many guests, you can avoid creating a 16-page monstrosity for them to print out by breaking up your registry over several stores.

At the end of the day, "more is more." Many retailers offer discounts on those items you registered for but didn't receive. Many stores also retain your registry for at least 12 months after the wedding. You may find it's best to register for everything that you plan to buy, even if you don't expect to get it as a gift; you can then purchase your selections for 10% or 20% off after the ceremony. Many brides also find friends and family tapping registries for gift buying ideas for birthdays and other holidays!

Q: What price range should I stick with when selecting items?

A: Generally, you should register for things you really feel you want or need, without worrying too much about the price. Some guests enjoy picking up a number of items in the low price range, and sometimes guests will group together to purchase bigger-ticket items.

Q: I've set up my registry just fine, but now I'm addicted to checking it online. How can I stop?

A: Sorry, there's no known antidote for registry-checking addiction, though it's a widespread phenomenon. Counting to ten, taking deep breaths or distracting yourself with double-fudge ice cream might be worth a shot.

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Blake Kritzberg is circus-master at www.FavorIdeas.com. Stop by for wedding favor ideas, Save-the-Date eCards, free wedding screensaver, free wedding templates and Bridezilla's weekly adventures at: http://www.favorideas.com http://funweddings.blog.com http://merrybrides.wordpress.com http://weddingsbyashlee.blog.com http://funweddings.blog.com

Wedding Ceremony Escort - Walking Down The Aisle

There are no set rules on who has the honor of escorting a bride down the aisle. Traditionally the father walks the bride down the aisle, but with today's non-traditional families this is not always an option.

Here are some ideas for non-traditional family situations.

Deceased Father or Absentee Father

You can walk down the aisle by yourself. Or you can ask your mother, stepfather, brother or a close relative/friend to escort you.

Whoever escorts you down the aisle will sit in the front pew after the precession. When the clergyman asks, "Who gives this woman in marriage?", your escort may respond. Even if your mother did not walk you down the aisle; she may still respond "I Do" from her place in the first pew.

Deceased Mother

You can ask a favorite aunt or grandmother to take your mother's place during the wedding. She should sit in the front pew with your father. It is even acceptable to have her join your father in escorting you down the aisle.

Divorced Parents - Mother Remarried

This can cause a sticky situation. Every family dynamic is different so there is no single solution. Here are some general guidelines you may want to consider.

Close to your natural father - If he has been a part of your life you may want to take the traditional route and have him walk you down the aisle.

There is no need to cut your stepfather out of your wedding - He can do a special reading during the ceremony, or dance the first dance with you.

Father and Stepfather on friendly terms - If you are torn between your father and stepfather, you may ask them both to escort you (one on each arm). When the clergymember asks, "Who supports this woman in marriage", they both respond "We do".

Another idea is to have your stepfather walk you half way down the aisle and sit in the front pew as you take your father's arm to the altar.

Be sure to speak to your father and stepfather privately to make sure they are okay with your plans. If one or both father's seem kind of apprehensive with your plans, do not push the issue.

Absentee Father vs. Stepfather

If your natural father has been distant and your stepfather has been there to support you, ask your stepfather to escort you down the aisle. The father who has supported you the most throughout your lifetime deserves the honor of escorting you.

Your natural dad may try to guilt you into choosing him but do not give in. He let you down many times before and probably will again. On the other hand, consider your stepfather's feelings. He helped raise you and loved you and would feel betrayed if you chose your absentee father over him. So be sure to choose wisely.

Can't Decide

If you are very fond of both of your fathers and cannot decide who to choose; ask neither. Walk down the aisle by yourself or have your groom escort you.

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Bridal Shower Games? The Good, the Bad and the Overdone

Games can make or break a shower. The best can break the ice and liven up the party. The worst can embarrass and bore. So, how can you avoid this?

First, a little research...
First, list the showers you've been to and the games you remember. Which did you like and dislike? Ask a few other gals to do the same. Don't ask the bride because the games should be a surprise. Now, compare the games. Which games were played the most? Chances are everyone has played these games and are pretty sick of them. Avoid these overly popular games, unless you think no one minds playing them again and again. Bridal Bingo again? No thanks!

The Bride
Take into account her personality. If the bride is outgoing and loves the spotlight, find games that will make her the center of attention. A shy bride? Choose ones that will put the focus on the guests instead of the bride. An 'anti-bride' bride? Center games around the theme of the shower instead of bridal-type games. Ask the bride for her opinion without giving away the surprise. Some brides simply detest being enrobed in toilet paper! A movie buff may dig playing "Famous Couples."

Guest List
Not all games are meant for all showers. Consider who will be attending the shower. Most brides would die of embarrassment if "Honeymoon Ad Libs" was played when her grandmother is at the shower! But, the same game would be hilarious with her sorority sisters. Don't play ice-breaker games if the guests are already acquainted. No one wants to play a name game when they know everyone in the room.

Number of Guests
If it's a large shower, avoid games where every guest shares their thoughts/feelings/best wishes. That could take hours if you have 30 guests! Many guests won't know each other at a larger shower, so plan an icebreaker where guests are split into small groups. With smaller parties, you have more time for each guest to be in the spotlight and share their best wishes for the bride.

The Theme
A way to spice up shower games is to play up the theme. A cooking shower can have "Name that Spice" or "Gourmet Vocabulary". A wine shower? A wine term quiz would be fun!

Timing is Everything!
Guests want time to visit, so don't have games take up the entire shower. Plan for about 3 games, but be prepared to ditch one if you run out of time. One 20-minute game and two 5-10 minute games will fit into most schedules. Decide the best time to play the games. Play one game at the beginning of the shower to break the ice. That way, guests can enjoy meeting each other.

Ummm? "Honeymoon Topics"
Sure, little comments here and there about "the honeymoon" are fine and cause giggles, but sex-themed games and food may embarrass the bride or her guests. Save them for the bachelorette party. Grandmother Myrtle will be shocked to realize that the adorable "saxophone" cookies were something else!

Memories! Sometimes what's missing from shower games is the reason the guests came in the first place?to celebrate the bride! Creating mementos personalize the party. Consider a "game" where the end result is a memento especially for the bride. A memory book, scrapbook, or hand-painted dishes are just a few ideas. What about having each guest create a scrapbook page?

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Spotlight on the Asian-Themed Wedding

Asian-themed weddings are on the rise, and at first this might come as a surprise. After all, nothing could seem further from the Laura Ashley vision we get when thinking of a wedding.

And in fact, that's one of the forces behind the rising popularity of the Asian-themed wedding: how it turns things upside-down. In fact, in a Chinese-style wedding, white is bad (it's the color of death) and red and black are good (they're the colors of luck and prosperity).

You might wonder whether brides that plan Asian-themed weddings are Asian (or marrying someone who is). The answer is, sometimes. Surprisingly often, they aren't, and the choice is purely aesthetic.

Today's trends break down into two main types of Asian-themed weddings: the Japanese or "Zen" style, which values simplicity and nature, and the more riotous Chinese style, which bristles with bright colors and shiny fabrics.

Although either choice may surprise some older guests, the bride may find her personal values deeply expressed in the Asian-themed wedding. After all, the usual wedding is a certain kind of pageant: the couple pretends to be royalty for a day, and lavishly entertain a large party - seemingly without a care, though they rack up huge debt to do so.

Brides drawn to the Zen-style ceremony often want to avoid the "royalty pageant" and simplify the ceremony (ironically, this can result in greater elegance for the price tag). This type of bride might read "voluntary simplicity" books, care about the environment, enjoy an uncluttered house or apartment with a handful of Japanese accents (Shoji lanterns and screens, for example) and find herself attracted to natural materials. She may feel freed by a simpler wedding gown, and carry an unfussy bouquet of calla lilies. Her centerpieces might be lanterns surrounded by black and white stones. For favors, she might give out fortune cookies placed in take-out boxes and topped off with chopsticks.

Other brides find aspects of tradition stifling, so they mix up their ceremony with Chinese-style zest. This bride might dress her bridesmaids in glowing red (or slinky black!) Cheongsams, dresses with high collars and slit sides. She'll hand them parasols instead of nosegays, and pass out chopsticks for their hair. Her own gown might be of gorgeous brocade in red, orange or gold. Perhaps she'll wrap up the ceremony with a butterfly release and hand out lucky bamboo stalks as wedding favors. This bride doesn't mind charting her own course in social affairs, and she loves the Chinese devotion to parents and children.

In either case, the Asian-themed wedding is a great way to tie your ceremony to your personal values. Perhaps the thought of such a wedding crossed your mind, but you thought you had to be Asian? The fact is, Asian traditions and trends have been shaping Americans deeply since the 1960s. Maybe it's time to ask yourself this: which type of Asian-themed bride are you?

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Blake Kritzberg is the proprietor of http://www.favorideas.com. Visit the site for easy, elegant, unusual, and affordable wedding favors, weekly "Bridezilla" cartoon, and free wedding screensaver. Learn more about Asian Theme Weddings now at: http://www.favorideas.com/wedding-favor-asian.htm http://funweddings.blog.com http://weddingsbyashlee.blog.com http://merrybrides.wordpress.com http://merrybrides.blogspot.com

Cookware Items to Have and to Hold

Stock your newlywed kitchen with cookware in a variety of materials and finishes.

With all the details of a wedding to plan - from invitations to flowers - sometimes the registry is put off until later. When the time comes to register, the dizzying array of choices at the stores can be overwhelming. And while you might spend a lot of time choosing your china or crystal, remember that you'll use cookware virtually every day, often several times a day.

There are seemingly endless options of cookware styles and materials available, and it's a good idea to understand the differences between them before you hit the stores. That way, you and your partner can make the best decision about what cookware will best suit your needs.

Keep in mind that about 85 percent of the world's cookware sales come from three types of materials: stainless steel, aluminum and hard-anodized aluminum. Within those materials, there are other features that differentiate cookware. It is important to compare like materials to like materials, as they each have their own unique properties. In addition, take care to note lid material, nonstick coating, if used, and other features.

Hard-Anodized Aluminum

Hard-anodized aluminum cookware is one of the most popular types of material, even though many people don't quite understand the construction. Hard-anodized aluminum cookware is plain aluminum cookware that has been processed in a series of chemical baths charged with an electric current. The result is a material that has the same superior heat conductivity as aluminum but is non-reactive with acidic foods like tomatoes and twice as hard as stainless steel.

Anolon Advanced marries hard-anodized aluminum cookware with a premium nonstick coating on the interior and exterior for durability and easy cleanup. The pans' handles combine stainless steel with silicone for a cool and safe grip and the lids are made of tempered glass so you can monitor cooking without removing the lid. The line retails from $19.99 to $399.99 for a 12-piece set.

Nonstick Cookware

Nonstick cookware has made dramatic improvements in quality and durability since it was introduced more than 30 years ago. There are a few things to look for when shopping for nonstick cookware. Look first at the type of pan surface on which the coating is applied. Because they are harder and more durable, hard-anodized aluminum nonstick pans will last longer than plain aluminum nonstick pans. Second, look at the thickness of the pan. The thicker the pan, the better the heat distribution, which will, over time, protect the nonstick coating. Remember to compare like materials to each other, too.

With more than 80 percent of all cookware sold being nonstick, there are choices in virtually every material for a nonstick option. Circulon, for example, is the only cookware with a nonstick system so unique it received a U.S. patent. Circulon Elite features a patented Hi-Low Food Release System that uses a circular groove system to ensure that the nonstick surface lasts longer. The pans feature a nonstick coating on the exterior as well for easy cleaning, and break-resistant glass lids. The cast stainless handles have a silicone grip for comfort. Retail prices range from $19.99 to $250.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel looks and works great. It is shiny, resistant to dents and dings, non-reactive with acidic foods and is dishwasher-safe. Unfortunately, stainless steel by itself is not a good heat conductor. In order to make a stainless steel pan conduct heat evenly, it is combined with another conductive metal like copper or aluminum by attaching a disc to the bottom of the pan or by combining layers of stainless steel with aluminum or copper to make a clad pan. Make sure you chose a quality pan that has a thick disc that spreads to the edges of the pan. This will eliminate a ring of burnt food in the bottom, prevent hot spots and improve heat distribution.

Several top cookware suppliers have introduced high-quality lines with distinctive features to improve the cookware's performance. KitchenAid Cookware Five-Ply Stainless Clad, for example, has a three-layer aluminum core that ensures even heating, while maintaining the stainless steel interior and exterior. The line features stainless steel lids and is oven-safe to 500 F, making it versatile for many cooking tasks. It comes in a variety of open stock shapes and sizes, as well as sets, retailing from $19.99 to $400.

Advantage by Farberware is another stainless steel line that incorporates several features to maximize the cookware's performance. The pans have a thick aluminum base for quick and even heating. The bases are encapsulated in 18/0 stainless steel, the type of steel that makes the pans induction stove compatible. For added convenience, the saucepans have flared rims and wide openings for easier whisking and pouring. The collection includes open stock pieces, nonstick skillets and a set. Retail prices range from $19.99 to $149.99.

ALuminum

Aluminum is a terrific heat conductor, but it is a soft material that can dent easily and may react with acidic foods. However, aluminum cookware heats evenly across the bottom and up the walls - hence many restaurant kitchens use thick aluminum cookware because of its great heat conduction properties and relatively low cost. Generally, the thicker the aluminum cookware, the better the heat distribution and cooking performance.

KitchenAid Gourmet Essentials Hard-Base is aluminum cookware that uses a patented technology which treats the interior with a ceramic primer to harden the aluminum. This also makes the nonstick coating more durable. The line has colored porcelain enamel exteriors, in either red or navy, to coordinate with many kitchen décors, and the handles are covered in coordinating, heat-resistant silicone for a soft, secure grip. Open stock pieces and sets retail from $19.99 to $199.99.

You're not married to one type of cookware. In fact most cooking professionals work with a variety of cookware materials depending on the type of cooking they're doing. If you're armed with knowledge about what to look for in cookware, you'll make the right choices

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There’s More to Wedding Invitations Than You Might Think

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.

Respond 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 respond 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.

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Sara Haese owns Printed Creations Wedding Store where you'll find a fantastic selection of both elegant and casual wedding invitations as well as save the dates and wedding accessories. Visitors can also sign up to receive her FREE Wedding Invitation Guide. source: ArticleFever.com
Disclaimer: This article is for entertainment purposes only. http://merrybrides.blogspot.com http://funweddings.blog.com http://weddingsbyashlee.blog.com http://merrybrides.wordpress.com

Wedding Catering - 5 Ways to Make your Menu Memorable

Need inspiring ideas to take your wedding reception beyond the ordinary? When it comes to building a menu that will excite and entice, couples are steering away from the traditional chicken-and-beef cliché and venturing towards something more contemporary and memorable. You are only limited by your imagination. Do something daring, and feature a reception menu that will and tantalize all the senses. Here is a list of the hottest menu ideas and catering trends:

Go Ethnic
Gain inspiration from our friends across the border or overseas, and feature an ethnic menu. It's a great opportunity to honor your heritage or just an excuse to serve something fun. Consider an Italian pasta station or a Chinese wok station. How about a build-your-own taco bar? Or take your guests on a world tour, and serve a little bit of everything.

Comfort Food Goes Chic
Pay homage to your family upbringing and serve comfort foods, straight up with a chic twist. Everyone loves macaroni and cheese; add some pizzazz to an old favorite by adding gruyere and fontina cheeses. Stuff mini sirloin hamburgers with blue cheese and top them with caramelized onions. Comfort foods can also be served family-style, setting a relaxed and festive mood for the wedding reception.

Reflect a Theme
Tie it all together, and choose your reception menu based on the season, theme or color of your wedding. Feature apple-maple glazed chicken with pumpkin cheesecake during the fall, or try lemon grilled salmon with a steamed fresh vegetable medley during the summer. Stocking a buffet with all food from the same family on the color wheel can make for a fascinating presentation (albeit, a little rough on your caterer). One of our favorite menu ideas - connect your guests to the wedding celebration and recreate your first meal has a couple or revolve your cuisine around your honeymoon destination.

Buzz on Bars
They’re not just for drinks anymore…Take your guests on a culinary journey of the senses with strategically placed food stations. Dynamic bars with bite sized samples allow guests to mingle and savor a number of flavors. So when you think catering – think tiny and scattered.

Cocktails & Appetizers
Looking to break the traditional five course mold? Base your entire wedding reception on cocktails and appetizers. This catering style allows for more variety and affords ample opportunity for creative presentation ideas. Serve a signature drink at a customized drink station. Feature shrimp and grits martinis. You're only limited by your imagination. The constant flow of stimulating culinary works of art and eye-catching spirits creates an intimate social atmosphere for your guests.

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For a complete guide to planning your wedding reception menu, visit Elegala.com's complete Catering guide. For a complete guide to creating an elegant and memorable wedding celebration, visit www.elegala.com, your ultimate wedding planning resource. http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cori_Locklin http://funweddings.blog.com http://merrybrides.wordpress.com http://weddingsbyashlee.com www.merrybrides.com

Is Marriage Right for You?

So you're planning to get married. That's great! You grow up
thinking that you'd get married someday. That's the norm; that's
the ideal. Despite the high divorce rate and the cynical marriage
jokes most adults want to be married. A recent survey of twenty-
something's found that 94% of them wanted to get married someday.

Marry In Haste, Repent and Repent and Repent

But, is marriage right for you? More specifically, is marriage at
this time to this person right for you? Just because you aspire
to being married someday doesn't mean that today is the day. Or
this month, or this year, or this person.

It feels as though someone we know is getting divorced with every
passing day. With the decrease in marriage rates, it also seems
as if there are a lot more divorces than marriages. Perhaps too
many people are getting married too soon.

Ironically, the number of young people who get married has taken
a notable dive. Today, the average age for first marriage is 27
for men. For women it is 25. This phenomenon is being attributed
to what is being called "extended adolescence". People are
simply taking longer - for many reasons, such as education,
careers, and others - to get married. In fact, one third of all
males in their 20's still live at home with their parents.

The Wedding as Show Business

Due to this extended wait for marriage, couples have more time to
plan their weddings. Older couples generally have more money to
spend on weddings. As a result, weddings are becoming much larger
affairs - at least in terms of money spent. In 2004 the average
cost of a wedding was more than $27,000. When such an investment
has been made, the pressure is truly on the couple to go through
with the ceremony, even if the bride or groom has doubts or
uncertainties about the marriage-to-be.

However, since divorce is more readily acceptable, it is becoming
more common that couples get married without the commitment of
staying together for life. They know deep down that if the
marriage doesn't work, there is an "out". They can get a divorce
and try again with someone else. So even if they have felt
pressured to go through with the wedding, they still feel as
though there is an alternative. They don't really have to commit.
There's always an "out".

When making the decision to get married, evaluate your reasons
with a list of pros and cons. If you feel that you are on the
losing end, perhaps you should re-evaluate your decision to get
married. If you will be giving up a career, your friends, or your
family than perhaps marriage is not the best move at this time.
If your partner truly loves you and not the idea of getting
married, s/he will understand. He'll be angry for a while, of
course. But the years will prove the wisdom of your decision.

Prenups for You and Me

If you are certain that you are in love, but want to cover all
your bases, you may want to draft a prenuptial agreement.
"Prenups" were designed to minimize arguments and legal bills
if/when a couple divorced. But, prenups are also valuable because
they force couples to discuss what may be major issues in their
marriage. This communication in itself may calm some of the
doubts you may have been feeling. Discussing these topics before
the wedding is much more effective than arguing about them
afterwards.

Be Fair by Being Selfish

Most of all, be fair to your partner by staying true to yourself.
If getting married doesn't really feel right, have the courage to
speak to your partner. Call a halt to the wedding or delay it
until you do feel ready. Breaking it off before the wedding is
much kinder than fighting each other in divorce court later. By
listening to your inner voice you may be sparing both your
partner and yourself a lifetime of heartache and misery.

Remember, also, that you should not be marrying in order to
either escape your current lifestyle or situation. Nor should you
act out a childhood fantasy of having the perfect wedding.
Marriage should not been seen through dreamy love-blinded eyes.
Marriage is a real life commitment and responsibility between two
adults. Approach it with eyes and heart and mind open.

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Dr. Alan Stafford, Relationship Results Coach. I help Singles and Couples build relationships that work www.relationshipsuccessexperts.com Copyright © 2005 Alan Stafford
http://www.relationshipsuccessexperts.com Get our free newsletter for relationship tips and advice:
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©2005 Alan Stafford/Relationship Success Experts http://merrybrides.wordpress.com

When should the Wedding Cake Be Cut?

When should the cake be cut?

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

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

What type of knife do I use?

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

Is there a special way to cut the cake?

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

Do we have to feed each other cake?

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

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

What happens after we feed each other cake?

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

Why do Brides save the top tier of the cake?

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

What happens to the leftover wedding cake?

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

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

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Bridezilla, Wedding Planning and the Perfect Wedding

Wedding planning can be a very stressful time. Many of us have seen the reality t.v. show about bridezilla, the out of control bride. But you don't have to be so stressed out that you treat your family and friends like they were doormats or worse. Let's take a moment to think about it.

There are a gazillion things to do and think about as you plan your wedding. You want the perfect wedding, the day you've always dreamed about. But let's be realistic here. You can plan everything right down to the smallest detail, but chances are that not everything is going to go as you planned. Inevitably something will go wrong. If you accept this possibility as you plan your wedding this will help to reduce the amount of stress you experience.

Try to remember that if something doesn't go exactly according to your wedding plans that it's not the end of the world. It will probably be something that you, your groom, friends and family members will laugh about for years to come. If you get it on tape you might even send it to America's Funniest Videos and win $10,000. There is always a bright side to most everything if you will just look for it. It is the bridezillas who fail to look for that silver lining in every cloud and make themselves and everyone around them miserable.

I saw a report on a national morning show recently about women who became very depressed after their wedding and honeymoon were over. After months of dreaming, anticipation, planning and shopping, the perfect wedding, came and went and there was a big let down. Realize that it's not the perfect wedding that is the most important thing, but the marriage relationship that you begin with the man you love.

Another matter for you to consider is how your family is dealing with your impending marriage and all the wedding planning. You won't realize until you are a little older how quickly time goes by. To your mom and dad it was only yesterday that you were their little girl. Although I'm sure they are very happy and excited for you as you begin a new phase in your life, they also can't help but feel a little sad. Of course, if you have been out on your own for a few years they have probably become accustomed to you being all grown up. Anyway, I say all that to say this, remember to be considerate of their feelings as you plan your wedding.

In this age of me, me, me, you might be shocked to learn that this day is not just about you. Include your family in helping you prepare, if they express an interest. You might ask them if they would like to help you plan your wedding. Your mom will probably be thrilled! If she has a talent for flower selection and arranging, you might ask her to deal with the florist. Perhaps your dad could arrange hotel accommodations for any out of town guests. If you have brothers or sisters that are capable of helping out, by all means let them. If you have aunts that you are close to and can trust with a particular job, then ask them to help. Make it a family affair. You can never have too much help. The more help you have the less chance of you becoming bridezilla.

DO NOT PROCRASTINATE! Begin planning your wedding early, have your checklist of things to do and check them off as they are done, try not to micromanage everything and enjoy planning your wedding.

So, to avoid being a bridezilla follow the above advice and try not to have any major last minute things that you have to do the week of your wedding. The less stressed and the more relaxed you are the more your wedding will seem perfect and the more you will enjoy your special day.

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Copyright - 2006 By: Sheilah Marshall Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Sheilah Marshall is a wedding planner and decorator and the creator of the online wedding supply store, All That's Classy.com at www.allthatsclassy.com http://funweddings.blogspot.com http://funweddings.blog.com http://weddingsbyashlee.blog.com http://merrybrides.wordpress.com http://windsor.weddingwindow.com