Wedding Reception - 42 Questions to ask the Reception Site Manager

By Cori Locklin

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

Costs Involved

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

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

Questions to ask:

• What is the facility rental fee?

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

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

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

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

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

• What is the overtime fee?

• Is there a fee for security personnel?

• Is there a fee for parking or valets?

Packages

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

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

Ask the site manager:

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

• Facility Rental?

• Food and Beverage?

• Ceremony on site?

• Set up and Break down?

• Staffing?

Other items that may or may not be included:

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

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

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

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

Services

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Amenities

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

• Are there changing rooms for the bridal party?

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

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

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

• Is there a dance floor?

• Are there sufficient restroom facilities?

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

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

Terms

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

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

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

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

• What is the cancellation policy?

• Does the site have any music or noise restrictions?

• Are there any decorating restrictions?

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

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Cori Locklin is editor-in-chief for Elegala Magazine. Elegala is a new wedding planning resource offering the most comprehensive portfolio of superior wedding reception sites and wedding services, along with planning tips, photo galleries and checklists to keep brides in-the-know on today's wedding trends and styles. For a complete guide to creating an elegant and memorable wedding celebration, visit http://www.elegala.com/ , your ultimate wedding planning resource. Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cori_Locklin

Does The Hall Really Set Your Wedding Date?

By: Wedding Wisdom Staff

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

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

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

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

Time of Year

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

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

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

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

Holidays

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

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

Friday vs. Saturday

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

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

Wedding Brunch vs. Wedding Dinner

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

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

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

Second Marriage Showers

By: Trish Burrell


Second marriage showers have become a growing trend. Most of us know couples who have been married before. A bridal shower is planned to celebrate a new love and an upcoming marriage, so it's appropriate to have one.

Second marriage showers involve many of the same bridal shower ideas as for a first marriage. Answering some of the questions you may have about second wedding showers will help:

Who hosts the shower?
The maid of honor and/or bridesmaids typically host the bridal shower. It may, however, be given by any close friend. Second marriage showers are often couples showers. If this is the case, get the groomsmen involved.

Who is to be invited?
It is best to ask the future bride (and groom, if a couples shower), for a guest list. It is proper to send a bridal shower invitation only to those who will be invited to the wedding.

When should the party be given?
Four to six weeks before the wedding is a good choice.

Where should the second wedding shower take place?
Often less traditional, they can be held at a home, hall or favorite local bar/restaurant of the couple.

How about decorations?
Second marriage showers are often casual. They might have a theme, such as a luau, or western party, with decorations to match. Keeping things simple and fun, will add to your party's success.

What about games?
Choosing games that are related to the theme, is a good option.

Are gifts given?
This depends on the couples age, and financial position. Some couples are young and still need many of the basics. Older, well established.couples, may request that guests make a donation to a charity. If this is their wish, state it in the invitation. The bridal party may still want to do something special for the couple.

A final thought:
Second marriages often involve children from a previous marriage. Involve them in your plans, no matter what the age. This will help contibute to a successful second bridal shower.

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© Copyright Trish Burrell, All Rights Reserved . This article may be reprinted, with all information, authors bio, and hyperlinks intact. Source: http://www.wedding-wisdom.com . Trish Burrell is founder of Bridal Shower Ideas For You. Visit this informational site on all areas of bridal shower planning, at www.bridal-shower-ideas-for-you.com

Choosing The Right Cosmetic Colors For YOU!

By: Jessica Tracy

As a former Beauty Advisor, I am constantly getting questions from people about which colors they should pick when choosing cosmetics. This article will give some basic pointers for anyone who does not have someone readily available to help them.

The first thing you need to do before picking out colors is to decide if you have a Warm, Neutral or Cool skin tone. One way to do this is to take a good look at yourself in a mirror in natural sunlight. Decide if your skin color has more Blue or Yellow to it, or if they are pretty well even.

More Blue = Cool
More Yellow = Warm
Equal = Neutral

Another way to find out what skin tone you have is to compare your skin to the colors Silver and Gold. Generally if your skin looks good with Gold, you have a warm skin tone, Silver means cool, and if it looks good with both, then you have Neutral.

Sometimes it can be hard to tell on yourself, so you may want to ask a friend to help you decide.

Once you have decided your skin tone, it is time to choose a Concealer, foundation and Powder. Depending on where you buy your cosmetics from, you may have a hard time figuring out which one looks best on your skin tone. The best way to choose a Concealer, foundation and powder is to try it out!

Generally for a concealer, you should pick one that is a shade lighter than your natural skin tone, so that when you use it to cover dark areas and imperfections it will blend and look natural.

If you have a lot of red spots (acne, scars, etc.) then
you should also look into getting a Green spot neutralizer, you use this under concealer to neutralize the red spot and make it look natural.

After you have chosen the right concealer for yourself, you should choose a liquid foundation that matches your skin tone as closely as possible. If you have freckles it is recommended to match the color with your lightest freckles to help even out your skin color.

Your powder should match your liquid foundation as closely as possible.

After this you should choose an eye shadow. Again, depending on where you purchase your cosmetics you may have trouble finding shades that look good on you as they aren't always labeled for skin tones.

From my experience I have found that for Cool skin tones, Pinks, Berries and Blue/greys seem to look best. For Warm skin tones Earth tones tend to look best (greens & browns and some reds ESPECIALLY for redheads), and for Neutral Skin tones, I try to combine the 2.

After you have chosen and applied the appropriate eyeshadow, you should apply an eyeliner and Mascara. For people with light colored hair, brown or brown/black is an excellent choice of eyeliner and mascara. For people with Darker hair, Black is best, Although black looks very dramatic on anyone, it is a great choice for evening time.

After eyeliner and mascara it is time to choose and apply a lipstick.

Generally you should match your lipstick to your eyeshadow, keep it in the same general color family, so if you are wearing pink eyeshadow, try a similar color lipstick, maybe a shade darker or lighter. Grey eyeshadow
looks great with different shades of red lipstick!

As a rule of thumb, if your eyeshadow is shimmery, you should avoid shimmery lipsticks, and vice-versa.

I recommend to all of my clients to DAB lipstick on, not to wipe it across their lips. By dabbing you have more control over the intensity of the color and you can make a more natural or bold look.

As with everything, this is just a guideline, play around with your makeup, take whatever seems helpful and leave the rest, this is just meant to give some suggestions, the best way to find out what looks best on you, is to try different things out!

Good luck!

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   Source: http://www.wedding-wisdom.com
   Author Bio: Jessica Tracy is a Married WAHM of 2, and an Independent Distributor for 3 direct sales companies, which she promotes through her website www.enchanted-scents.com. Jessica is also the owner of www.marketplacemamas.com, a resource site for work at home moms. This article may be reprinted so long as the Author Bio is attached

Interfaith Marriage - How to Plan an Interfaith Wedding Ceremony

By Cori Locklin

Let’s face it – the world just isn’t as big as it used to be. As a testament to the earth’s seemingly shrinking waistline, more and more young men and women are finding true love outside their faith – and making it work. Yet no matter how progressive you and your families may be, the peaceful merging of two religions can prove an ambitious undertaking. Take a deep breath, remind yourself that love is the end goal, and get ready to celebrate a marriage made in heaven, er, make that two heavens.

Interfaith wedding ceremonies pose a few planning challenges. Here is some advice to get you started:

Do Some Soul Searching - If you’ve been neglecting your spiritual side, it’s time to get reacquainted. Assess your beliefs and the role you see them playing in your life. How important to you is it that your wedding ceremony reflects your religious background? How willing are you to compromise for your fiancé’s beliefs or family? Know your personal stance on faith and religion, so you can speak candidly with your fiancé and your families and make decisions accordingly.

Talk it Over - After you’ve come to terms with your own spirituality, you and your fiancé need to have an honest discussion about religion. Although you should have broached the topic at some point during your relationship, now a wedding ceremony and marriage loom, adding a sense of urgency. During your internal reflection, you may have discovered your own views altering a bit, and he may feel the same. Discuss together your values, and identify what traditions are most meaningful for each of you to incorporate into your wedding ceremony and marriage.

Invite the Families - Combining two sets of traditions while keeping the peace with both families can be tricky. Invite both sides to listen to your ideas and contribute their expectations for your wedding day. You’d be surprised how an honest group discussion can bring about solutions once deemed elusive. As the happy couple, you and your fiancé should be prepared to discuss openly your choices, but you should also be receptive to their viewpoints. Be honest, open and supportive, and make sure that your ceremony plans are agreeable (or at least livable) for everyone.

Get the Right Officiant(s) - While many officiants do not perform interfaith weddings – or only do so with restrictions – just as many specialize in interfaith wedding ceremonies. If either of you has a relationship with the clergy at your respective place of worship, consult with that him or her first. Even if your clergy is unable to perform the service, he or she should be able to evaluate your situation with an open mind and make suggestions and recommendations. Many religious and interfaith organizations maintain lists of clergy who will officiate at interfaith ceremonies. You will also find a valuable resource in your local newspaper’s wedding announcements. Search for the names of officiants who have conducted interfaith ceremonies.

Get Counseled - Counseling sessions, often recommended before a wedding regardless of the couple’s religion, offer a good opportunity for a bride and groom to not only learn about the other's faith, but also to consider ways to merge traditions or celebrations during the ceremony. Since religion won’t disappear after your wedding day, counseling sessions also offer insight to other situations that may arise in your marriage, including raising children.

Plan a Fusion Ceremony - Consult your officiant(s) and families for advice in designing a ceremony that incorporates both faiths and cultures. Determine which customs are personally significant, and select rituals and readings together. Continue this blending of cultures into the reception, and design a menu of personalized fusion cuisine – think egg rolls with a side of Spanakopita.

Reassure the Family - As your wedding plans unfold, remember to pause from time to time and check in with your families, especially if the news of an interfaith wedding was an initial shock for either side. Continue to keep them involved and informed throughout the planning process. Spend quality time together, and if logistics allow, plan some group get-togethers.

Reassure Yourselves - Along those lines – don’t forget to reassure each other along the way, as uncertainty can creep in with potential roadblocks and planning challenges. Don’t stress that you’re losing your religion, because your not. Remember to always keep the focus on the marriage of two people in love, and rejoice that you now have two great traditions from which to draw your spiritual inspiration. Delight in a spiritually rich life and future to come!

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Author: Cori Locklin is editor-in-chief for Elegala.com and Elegala Magazine. Elegala is a new wedding planning resource offering the most comprehensive portfolio of superior wedding reception sites and wedding services, along with planning tips, photo galleries and checklists to keep brides in-the-know on today's wedding trends and styles. Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cori_Locklin

Make a Splash with a Mermaid Fairytale Wedding

By Jeanette Shinn

For a variation on the typical beach themed wedding combine it with a fairytale wedding theme to create a mermaid fairytale wedding. Such a celebration can be an unforgettably beautiful wedding experience that you and your guests will talk about for many years. The mermaid fairytale wedding lends itself wonderfully to an elegant wedding celebration of love and romance.

Start with Your Wedding Dress

Yes, building your mermaid fairytale wedding theme begins with your wedding dress. Most wedding dresses whose designs are inspired by mermaid fairytales are elegant sheaths that flair somewhere around the knees into a gorgeous train. By choosing such a wedding dress you begin to lay the foundation for a tasteful salute to the mermaid theme in your wedding.

Look at Your Feet

You, after all, have to play the role of the mermaid. So, at least for the reception you want something that will add beauty and a touch of the sea to your feet. The best way I know to do that is with a pair of barefoot sandals that will adorn your feet with puka shells, pearls, or any number of other crystals. As a matter of fact, you can get entire ensembles that will lend to your overall look as a beauty from the sea with everything from hand wraps, to necklaces, to hair jewelry and beyond.

Consider the Overall Decor

Unless you have a huge budget you are probably not going to be able to pull off a mermaid themed wedding in a high school gymnasium (why would you want to?). Instead, look for a location that you can quickly and easily adapt to your theme. Of course, a beach wedding is a natural but if that's not an option an indoor wedding that maintains the theme is achievable.

Begin with fish tanks. Hold your wedding reception in a restaurant with large fish tanks, or rent part of a local aquatic park. Or simply rent several fish tanks (fish included) to be set up in a hotel ballroom or tasteful church multipurpose room and let as much of your lighting be filtered by the water as possible. Done well a mermaid fairytale wedding is just as incredible as your dreams.

Have Fun with the Music

Be creative with the music you choose to set the tone for your mermaid fairytale wedding. There are multitudes of ways you can go. Is this a royal mermaid fantasy? Then you will probably want more regal, courtly sounding music. Are you thinking more along the lines of a beach love story between a man and the mermaid who rescues him (or the other way round)? Then perhaps music more suited to a Hollywood beach romance blockbuster would be better.

Of course, you could always pay homage to the classic Disney movie, "The Little Mermaid" by using the song, "Under the Sea" to kick off the dance. If you dare, make your entrance in your mermaid fairytale wedding to the song that Ariel sings when she first gets her voice back after Ursula is defeated to symbolically represent all that you have overcome to get to your fairytale wedding day.

Whatever you choose, the point is that you choose your music deliberately to fit your specific vision of the theme. Just about the only thing that won't work is using the old standard wedding songs the way they've always been used - not because they're bad, but because without a lot of alteration they won't present the mermaid fantasy image that you are trying to portray.

Finally, Consider the Details

Use sandcastles as a centerpiece on your head table and sandcastle votive table decor to provide ambiance. Likewise, a hand blown glass mermaid couple cake top on your seascape themed wedding cake. Furthermore, choose a beach wedding favor such as sea shell gel candles or a crab wine bottle holder on your reception tables to compliment the decor and to send your guests home with something that will remind them of your mermaid fairytale wedding for many years to come.

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Jeanette Shinn is a wedding professional with over a dozen years experience making dreams come alive. Discover more great fairytale wedding ideas and beach wedding ideas at her website http://www.ExcitingWeddingFavors.com.
Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeanette_Shinn

Finances an Important Issue for Newlyweds

(MS) - Newlyweds face a host of big decisions once their honeymoon is over and it's time to head back to reality. Perhaps none carry more weight than the numerous financial decisions that need to be made. Some are more common sense and obvious than others, while some are touchy subjects and need to be addressed carefully.

Depending on their ages when married, newlyweds can have financial resources ranging from complicated portfolios including investments and property to just a savings or checking account. For newlyweds just starting their life together, the best thing to do is to sit down and discuss the following situations carefully with your spouse.

· Change beneficiaries on all accounts: Be it your 401(k), a life or auto insurance policy, investment accounts or just your savings account at the local bank, once you're married you'd likely prefer your spouse to be the beneficiary in the case of an accident. This is not a complicated process, and should be done as soon as possible. It's especially important to do this if children are in the equation, as no one wants to leave their spouse on the short end financially if they'll be raising the kids by themselves.

· Decide on a healthcare plan: Many times, it's most beneficial to have both spouses on the same plan, as opposed to each having their own plan. Most policies mandate you add a spouse within a 30-day window after you've been married. Look at each policy closely to see which one is more financially beneficial, but also see which one might be better in the long run (i.e., if children will be added down the road).

· Review other insurance policies as well: Oftentimes, it's cheaper to combine auto insurance policies instead of each spouse having one in their name. Companies typically lower rates for married couples, and many times you won't need to pay for duplicate coverage like you would if you had two different policies.

Look at insurance policies beyond auto insurance, too. For instance, you won't need two renter's insurance policies anymore (if any at all), so pick the better one if you're still renting. If you're a homeowner, make sure your policy reflects the value of all your combined possessions post-wedding.

· Contact Social Security in light of a name change: If you've changed your name, you'll need a new Social Security card. Also, you'll want your retirement account to be credited correctly, something that might not happen should your new name not be the name the Social Security Administration has listed.

· Update your will: While this is similar to changing beneficiaries, it's not exactly the same thing. Changing beneficiaries is more estate planning, which a will doesn't really account for. Changing your will should reflect what you want to happen with respect to your children and any possessions that were not mutual possessions shared between you and your spouse.

· Review credit history and develop a plan of action: If they don't already have one, most newlywed couples want to purchase a home together somewhere down the road. The best way to do that is to clear up any past discrepancies on your credit histories. Once you're married, it's best to look at these as combined debts you're both responsible for. Since you'll both be seeking credit approval when it comes time to purchase a home, you'll both need acceptable credit. Develop a plan for removing all debts together.

· Set a budget: Many times, newlyweds find that one spouse is the spender, while the other is the saver. In order to make your marriage work, you'll need to devise a budget that keeps both people happy. Sit down and work out what your monthly earnings and bills are, and discuss your financial goals. From there, you can develop a budget that's acceptable to both people and will keep you on track for meeting your financial goals.

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Bridesmaid Gift Guide - Gift Ideas, Cost Considerations and Etiquette

They have done so much for you, not only as a part of your wedding party but also as a friend and confidant over the years. How to even begin to say thanks? Start by presenting your wedding attendants with heartfelt gifts to express your gratitude. This bridesmaid gift guide will steer you through the gift-giving process.

What to Spend

Consider both your budget and the amount that each attendant must spend to be in your wedding. In the end, it's always the thought that counts, but giving movie passes may seem a tad ungrateful if your maids had to shell out $500 each for those couture dresses you insisted upon. Get something that lets your attendants know how much you appreciate them. Generally, spending $50-$150 is a good amount. Consider also giving a little extra something to your maid/matron of honor, especially if she hosted a shower or engagement party for you.

When to Give

You can present the gifts during any private moment with your 'maids. Many brides give them during the bridesmaids' luncheon or tea. You can also hand them out at the rehearsal dinner, when your closest friends and family are gathered together. Consider presenting them along with a toast, thanking each bridesmaid for their support and friendship over the years.

Bridesmaid Gift Ideas

Stumped on what to give? Here are some hot attendant gift ideas:

• Monogrammed Robe/Pajamas—a great idea especially if you and your girls are planning a slumber party right before the wedding.

• Spa Certificates—or pop for a trip to the spa, and treat everyone to a massage or other treatment. Your maids will appreciate the special pampering.

• Personalized Picture Frames—including an individual photo of you with each bridesmaid.

• Jewelry - It can be something to wear at the wedding - but also try to choose something they will wear again. You want a gift they will enjoy that will often remind them of you!

• A Container Filled with Goodies—can't decide on one thing? Give it all! Find a creative container and fill it with goodies and mementos. A monogrammed canvas bag or a pretty decorated box will work nicely. If your budget allows, splurge on a nice designer handbag! Be as creative as you want.

• Fur (or fake fur) Wraps—a great idea, especially for a winter wedding.

• Makeup—have their makeup done for the wedding, and then purchase a few items for them to keep. They will feel fabulous for the big day and will also have something to take with them that they picked out.

• Mixed CDs—full of tunes that hold special meaning, a great extra that can add a personalized touch to another gift.

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Cori Locklin is editor-in-chief for Elegala.com 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 http://merrybrides.wordpress.com http://funweddings.blogspot.com

Responsibility of Being Best Man and Maid of Honor

(MS) - A popularity contest often comes into play when an engaged couple is selecting friends and family members to be part of their wedding party. Often there is great speculation surrounding who will be bestowed the honor of being a bridesmaid or groomsman and who will win the coveted spots of best man and maid of honor. The pressure could ultimately become a cause of undue stress for the happy couple.

Before making the decisions based solely on who is a best friend or favorite cousin, consider the responsibilities the maid of honor and best man must uphold according to tradition. This may make pairing the right person with the job that much easier.

BEST MAN

This is the groom's right-hand man. He has a series of responsibilities, none which should be taken lightly.

· Oversees the groomsmen, making sure they are on time for the ceremony, properly dressed and have their boutonnieres on the left lapel.

· Ensures that the groom is dressed and ready for the ceremony. The best man may actually help the groom to dress in his tuxedo.

· Introduces people and breaks the ice.

· Holds the wedding rings until they are blessed. If a ring bearer will be used, it is suggested that faux rings be tied to the pillow and the best man continues to hold the real things.

· Takes care of payment to the clergy and other financial contributions after the ceremony. He may also tie up any loose financial ends with the reception staff.

· Ensures that the groom has the marriage license and will subsequently be one of the signatures on that document as a witness to the marriage.

· Makes sure that honeymoon travel arrangements have been made and may transport the couple to the airport if necessary.

· Returns the groom's tux (and any from irresponsible groomsmen) to the rental place.

· Arranges the bachelor party if one will be held.

· Writes and issues a toast at the wedding ceremony.

· Dances with the maid of honor.

MAID OF HONOR

The maid of honor - matron if the woman is married - will handle a number of functions for the bride and wedding party to reduce the amount of stress on the bride.

· Helps address announcements or wedding invitations with the bride.

· Arranges the bridal shower with other members of the bridal party and possibly the bride's mother.

· Makes sure the bridesmaids are aware of dress fittings and any responsibilities the bride has given them to do.

· Assists bride with her train during and after the ceremony.

· Holds the bride's bouquet during ring exchange or other moments during the ceremony.

· Assists the photographer with identifying key members of the family who will need to be photographed.

· Witnesses and signs the marriage certificate along with the best man.

· Helps the bride and bridesmaids with dressing.

· Organizes a bachelorette party if one will be held.

· Helps the bride and groom depart for their honeymoon.

· Takes care of returning the wedding gown to the bride's home or to be cleaned.

· May present a speech at the bridal shower.

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Wedding Guest Attire

There is a good chance that you've been invited to a wedding - or will be - where the expected attire was a mystery. Unless the invitation specifically mentions "black tie" or another dress code, you could be taking a guess as to what is appropriate to wear. No one wants to be the odd person out, wearing an outfit that is inconsistent with the scope of the wedding. Usually there are hints that will offer you ideas about the formality of the wedding. Act as a super sleuth and follow the clues.

1. Look at the invitation. Does it have all of the markers of a formal wedding: thick card stock, engraved typeset, calligraphy on the envelope? Or does it casually invite you to watch the couple tie the knot? Typically the invitation will set the tone of the wedding.

2. Consider the location of the ceremony and reception. Chances are if the couple is being married on the beach and having a clam bake as their party they won't expect women to wear an evening gown and gents to wear tails. But if you recognize the reception hall to be a formal or semi-formal venue, the dress code is likely similar.

3. Take your cues from the bride and her wedding party. If you've heard the bride will be wearing a cathedral-length veil and elaborate wedding gown, chances are she's going for a formal wedding. If you know the bridesmaids are wearing sarongs and flip flops, it's probably a casual affair.

4. Don't be afraid to ask. Ring the bride or groom, or their parents, and inquire as to what type of atmosphere it will be. If you're mortified by this idea, err on the side of caution by choosing something that is conservative. Ladies usually can't go wrong with a black cocktail dress and men can play it safe in a dark-colored suit and tie.

Follow these guidelines:

BLACK TIE

Her: A formal dress, usually to the floor. Coordinate with a beaded purse and elegant wrap. Expect to dance, so don't wear anything too revealing or constricting.

Him: A tuxedo is the only appropriate thing to wear.

EVENING WEDDING

Her: Dress as if you were going to the theater or a fancy restaurant. Cocktail dresses are appropriate, or dressy suits. Avoid anything with sequins or too flashy. Suits shouldn't be too stuffy or "corporate."

Him: A dark suit is always a safe bet. If you suspect it is semi-formal, you may be able to wear a blazer, slacks and a tie.

DAYTIME WEDDING

Her: A conservative but fun floral dress or light-colored suit.

Him: A light-colored suit if it is a summer wedding. For winter, dress warmer in a blazer and slacks with either a dress shirt or sweater underneath. Tuxedos should not be worn before 6 p.m.
It is safe to assume that the following are not appropriate to wear to a wedding.

· Black to a daytime wedding, you'll look like you are in mourning

· White, it competes with the bride

· Jeans

· Anything torn, dirty or ill-fitting

· Anything too revealing, particularly to a religious wedding where a coverup may be necessary for a strapless or sleeveless gown

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Wine Wedding Favor Ideas

Red or white, day or night, wine and barware accessories are becoming increasingly popular as wedding and event favors. In style with today's wedding trends, wine favors are both fun and functional - and are sure to be used in your guests' homes for years to come. These memorable wedding favors are a smart choice for your wedding or event!

Wine has been used in celebrations worldwide for many centuries, dating back as early as biblical times. For many, the fine gift of wine is one of life’s greatest gifts. It’s only natural that those who feel a deep love and respect for wine and the wine making process, want to give it a special place at their weddings. Whether you are having a wine themed wedding, or just want to give something practical to your guests, wine and barware favors will be appreciated.

Here are some ideas and suggestions on popular wine and barware favors:

Bottle Stopper Wedding Favors

Bottle Stoppers also known as wine stoppers come in a variety of styles, shapes and textures, and are the most often selected type of favor for weddings and events in this category. Bottle stoppers are like miniature works of art: some may be made of colored blown glass, while others may take on a seasonal shape or even may be topped with crystals and other adornments. They may be made of silver-plating, chrome or cork and depending on the material used – will cause variations in pricing.

If selecting a silver-plated or chrome stopper make sure you look closely at the “O” rings. These rubber rings ensure an airtight seal – the more rings on a stopper, the more secure the seal. Even if some of your guests prefer other beverages, most households these days have a bottle of wine, which eventually is opened.

Bottle stoppers are contemporary gift and work well as favors for a variety of functions.

Coaster Wedding Favors

Almost all households have them, use them, or display them. Coasters have become quite popular among the favor giving crowd and its no wonder why: they are pretty, affordable, useful and everyone will love them. Current wedding favor styles come packaged in four per set or two per set. Some allow guests to insert their favorite photo inside the coaster, while others reflect the theme of the day. While coasters are the second most popular wine themed wedding favor, keep in mind that some of the glass styles available are extremely heavy to ship – with most four pack styles weighing in at nearly a pound each. However, the weight alone makes it a substantial wedding favor to give and receive.

Wine Charm Wedding Favors

Wine charms are another favor designed to delight wine connoisseurs and people who love to entertain in their home. Wine charms attach to the stems of wine glasses and help to identify which glass belongs to which guest at parties and events. Many people don’t have wine charms as standard in their home – and more than likely a gift of wine charm favors will be a welcome addition. Like their bottle stopper cousins, wine charms are miniature works of art – charms are available in many different designs to suit various popular wedding and non-wedding themes. Wine charms come in a variety of materials and quantity packs, so shopping around for charms that will suit your style will be rewarded.

Bottle Openers & Corkscrews

Both bottle openers and corkscrews should be standard in many homes. However, many households don’t have pretty openers such as the ones available on the market today. In both whimsical styles and traditional shapes, openers and corkscrews will fit anyone’s style. Most are manufactured in silver plating or chrome and are attractively packaged. Browse both wedding favor and wine sites to see the many styles available.

Miniature Wine Bottles, Champagne Bottles and Personalized Options Many wine shops and local liquor stores carry a variety of miniature wine or champagne bottles. You can easily purchase these in bulk from local suppliers and save on the cost of purchasing online and having these shipped to you. Additionally, with a bit of creativity, you can print your own labels or contract a local print shop to create custom labels that can be applied over the label. In some instances, with a bit of patience, labels can be removed with a bit of glue remover.

Make Your Own Vintage Wine

If someone in your family or friends is experienced in wine making, you can make your own vintage for your wedding or vent. Some specialty wine shops and vineyards may also help you develop your own wine for your party. Although this is a most personal gift of all the wine wedding favors, it is not for the first time wine maker.

Champagne Jelly Wedding Favors Champagne jelly is elegant and easy to make at home. It goes beautifully with many dishes and can be jarred and labeled to match your wedding colors. If you search the web, there are many recipes available. A twist on standard champagne is to use rose or pink champagne jelly.
Personalized Champagne Flute Wedding Favors Personalized Champagne flutes are classic and elegant wedding favor. Most companies can personalize them with your names and a graphic of your choice in your wedding colors. You can fill the flutes with candies and wrap them in tulle for an elegant presentation. If you are handy you can also turn these flutes into candles.

Wine and Champagne Candle Wedding Favors

Candles make useful and traditional wedding favors and gifts. Many candles today come in unique styles including wine themed ones such as merlot wine candles, champagne basket candles and bubbling champagne flute designs.

If you are having a wine themed event, browse many wine shops, vineyards, and online stores to comparison shop and to find the perfect wine themed favor. With so many options available you will be sure to find the perfect wedding favor or event gift.

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Erica Tevis is the owner of Two Hearts Wedding Favors www.twoheartsfavors.com . Vist them on the web and check out their large supply of wine wedding favors, wine charms, bottle stoppers, coasters and other wedding favors. Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Erica_Tevis

Choosing Wedding Flowers With Meaning

By: Shaan Randow

You know you want vibrant colors, beautiful accents and flowers that represent who you and your groom are. However, unless you have a particular flower in mind, choosing your wedding flowers can be a difficult challenge.

Some brides choose their wedding flowers by what they symbolize and also by what is in season when your wedding is taking place. Choose your wedding flowers carefully and take your time. Think about where you met, were there flowers that you think about and hold in your memory? Walk through public gardens; visualize the flowers you see in your wedding. Which ones stand out? Talk to friends who garden and ask their opinions as to what flowers would look great in your wedding. Or if you have decided on wedding colors, choose flowers that would accent and make these colors prominent.

When choosing wedding flowers for bouquets and arrangements, check out Calla Lilys, which are large yellow or white tropical flowers. These are in bloom during the spring and summer months and mean magnificent beauty. Delphinium flowers are also in bloom during the summer months and come in shades of white and blues and are a popular wedding flower. Delphinium means swiftness and lightness.

Other common flower choices to look at when choosing your wedding flowers are Lilies of the Valley, which are traditional wedding flowers. They are small, white, and bell-shaped and are commonly used with other flowers in arrangements. Their meaning is happiness. A simple, and yet perfect meaning to any wedding.

For all year round flowers, try choosing wedding flowers that have a strong meaning, with a subtle look. Chrysanthemums have several different varieties to choose from, such as spider, miniature buttons and pom-poms. They come in different colors and mean wealth, abundance and truth. Carnations are another popular choice for weddings and come in either full-size or miniature blooms. Available in red, white and pink they can also be dyed to match the colors of your wedding. The meaning of carnations is love and devotion, which fits a wedding perfectly.

When choosing wedding flowers, also think about fillers for bouquets. Ivy is the most popular filler and has been used for generations. It is available year around and means fidelity, friendship and marriage, which is a good start to include in your wedding.

More traditional flowers to consider when choosing wedding flowers are the common rose and stephanotis. Roses are used in full blooms or buds and are available in a variety of colors. These are famous for bouquets, corsages and boutonnieres. Their meaning is love, joy, and beauty, which fit right in with a bride and groom uniting as one. Stephanotises are trumpet-shaped blooms in white and pink. They are available year around and mean marital happiness.

Some people believe that the flowers used in weddings, dependent on their meaning, can bring luck and good fortune to the couple who chose them. When choosing your wedding flowers, go with those that stand out to you and ones that would look beautiful in your wedding photos. And remember, you can never really go wrong when you include flowers in a wedding.

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Author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.bridal-jewelry-guide.com Read more articles by: Shaan Randow Source: www.iSnare.com http://funweddings.blogspot.com
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Perfect

Many engaged couples wish to show appreciation to their parents for funding their big day, yet struggle with finding ideas for such a meaningful gift. Fortunately, there are many options for unique wedding gifts for parents of the bride and groom.

Personalized Gifts

One idea is to produce a personalized wedding gift for parents. Personalized items provide a special memento of love and family history. Engraved Frames
with a heartfelt message and memorable photo will be cherished for years to come. Personal jewelry items such as a locket
or cufflinks with the wedding date engraved are another option. Plaques with a special poem can be displayed with pride as a reminder of the merging of two families. Holiday ornaments may be engraved with couple’s names. A framed representation of the family tree (with the new son/daughter included) is another option.

Classic Gifts

Another idea is to give a classic item made from precious materials. The bride and groom may wish to give the timeless gift of crystal, in the form of a clock or vase. Silver candlestick holders or a serving piece provide another option.

Creative Gifts

Couples may wish to exercise their special talents by creating their own unique wedding gift for their parents. A handcrafted scrapbook chronicling the journey from childhood to marriage will bring tears to a parent’s eyes. A handmade quilt would become an instant family heirloom. Pottery, lovingly created or painted, will hold a place of honor on the mantel of the family home.

Gift Certificates

Yet another option is to give the gift of relaxation. After months of stressful (and expensive) wedding planning, most parents of the bride and groom would appreciate a gift certificate for a relaxing spa treatment or weekend getaway. Couples can get creative and research local recreational activities, bed and breakfasts and formal dining options.

Wedding Mementos

Once married, the bride and groom can provide parents with a special photo album with candid shots of the wedding preparations, ceremony and honeymoon.
Regardless of the wedding gift that a couple decides to give their parents, the heartfelt message of gratitude will be clearly and lovingly communicated.

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About The Author
regularly contributes to http://www.wedding-vows-4u.com a site dedicated to helping you with information about everything wedding related. We feature article directories on many topics such as http://www.wedding-vows-4u.com and http://www.wedding-vows-4u.com/category/wedding-gowns/ to help you get the information you need – check them out! http://merrybrides.blogspot.com http://funweddings.blog.com

In a fast-paced world of wedding planning, stress levels are high; immune systems are low; and over the course of the past 20 years, brides have transmitted, what has become a bridal epidemic of our time.

The number of victims has steadily increased; and to date, there is no cure. It’s been dubbed various clinical names: Multiple Personality Disorder, Schizophrenia, Temporary Insanity. But in the world of matrimony, anyone who’s been exposed – fiancés, family, friends, and victims themselves -- this broadening illness has been commonly termed “Bridezilla Syndrome” or “BS.”

A contagious condition, BS has become more prominent and has plagued today’s busy, wedding-planning woman. In a preliminary study, the disease has spread at an alarming rate. Symptoms of victims of BS -- better known as Bridezillas -- include reoccurring mood spells, bouts with selfishness, signs of controlling behavior and feelings of meticulousness.

Unfortunately fiancés, bridal party members, friends and family eventually fall victim to the actions and attitudes of a Bridezilla.
Research suggests that symptoms are recognized most often by the fiancé and Maid of Honor, and are completely undetectable by the actual victim. In some cases, a bridal party member, who having had too much alcohol to drink, confronted the Bridezilla. Most often, an emotional, breakdown of the victim would follow, thus intensifying her condition. In a survey of 100 Maids of Honor, an alarming 85% said they avoided confrontation with the victim for fear it would only exasperate the illness.

So we must ask the underlying questions: Where is all this BS coming from? How does one know when she’s full of it? Unfortunately the source has not been found; though it is believed that it has existed since the dawn of the institution of marriage.

A short-term condition (symptoms persist about 1-2 years depending on one’s wedding date), Bridezillas seem to have been unfairly blamed for their actions, for which some believe they have no control, albeit their control over everything else. In fact, it’s been clinically proven that a Bridezilla actually does have feelings -- feelings of selfishness, insecurity, anxiousness and stress!

Though it’s been said there is no cure, there are ways to prevent infection of BS. A survey of healthy brides, whom successfully planned their weddings without contracting the disease, was conducted. Results showed commonalities of the actions performed to avoid the disorder. Doctors, psychologists and wedding planners strongly suggest the following preventative therapy:

1. Keep Perspective - remind yourself that the wedding is only one day in your life. When things get out of control, close your eyes and remember the reason why you are planning this wedding in the first place.

2. Don’t Assume Your Groom Doesn’t Want to Help - ask him what he’d like to take responsibility for; and then let him. (note: some grooms may follow the cliché and decline this offer.)

3. Know That You Can’t Control Everything - realize this and accept it!

4 Delegate. Delegate. Delegate - If you act like you can handle everything, people will let you. Spread the duties.

5. Don't Sweat the Small Stuff - people won’t remember whether or not your invitations had those cute little tissues enclosed.

6. Treat The People You Cherish with Love - the wedding is one day; your family and friends are forever.

7. Allow Others to Vent - give your fiancé, family and bridesmaids permission to tell you when you’re going off the deep-end.

8. Take the Heat - give yourself permission to hear them.

9. Do Something for Yourself Every Day - the catch is that it must not involve the wedding.

10. No Wedding Talk After 10pm.

Although preventative therapy is available, some brides inherently fall victim and still contract BS. But there is hope! This is not a terminal illness. In fact in most cases, the bride has been known to be miraculously cured once she has returned from her honeymoon. Doctors and psychologists theorize that the change in altitude from flying coupled with excessive levels of the love hormone, counteracts the disease by boosting the immune system, thus eliminating symptoms.

In cases of remission, the disease has been known to resurface when a person, under certain circumstances, may be planning her wedding again. According to research, those brides with a higher IQ score avoided the reoccurrence of symptoms by simply eloping.

Whatever your situation, whether a Bridezilla, fiancé, friend or family member of one -- join in the fight! With love, hope and education, our brides of the future and their bridal parties will have a winning chance against all the BS!

Chicken Soup for the Bride's Soul is NOW available at all bookstores and at discount online at Amazon.com. This books brings to light the true meaning of love and commitment, whether you are newly engaged, recently married or reflecting on the years of married bliss. Makes the perfect bridal shower gift!

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Visit www.bridesoul.com for more information about Chicken Soup for the Bride’s Soul.
Footnote: Preventative Therapy of Bridezilla Syndrome provided by www.WeddingQuestions.com.
By the author of Chicken Soup For the Brides Soul ; Gina Romanello. A graduate from Arizona State University with a BA in Journalism, Gina was thrilled when given the opportunity to join the Chicken Soup for the Kid’s Soul team. Her temporary position turned into eight years of employment in their book production department. Contact Gina at gina@chickensoupforthebridesoul.com or visit her website http://www.bridesoul.com http://merrybrides.wordpress.com Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gina_Romanello