Wedding Venues - 4 Steps to Finding Your Reception Site

By Cori Locklin

When it comes to your wedding reception, the venue is undeniably the most important piece of the planning puzzle. No other element can reflect a desired mood or style quite like the setting in which the event is held. The wedding venue should be the first major decision in your planning process. Once you have selected your site, you will find that everything else begins to fall into place.

Daunted by the task? Don't be. While you should approach venue selection with care, a little pre-planning will help narrow down the options. Before meeting with the first facility manager, consider three factors to determine the type of venue that is perfect for you.

1. Theme and Style of Event -

Different types of wedding venues set the stage for specific styles of wedding reception. Before deciding, determine the type of affair you would like to host.

Today's wedding receptions are about personality and creativity. Consider your personal style. Do you want your wedding to be a reflection or a departure from that? Just because you tend to be more city-chic does not mean you can't throw a country-style foot stomping hoe down of a wedding (it can be done in an equally fabulous manner).

Put some thought into this, and envision your perfect wedding reception. The theme and style you wish to reflect will help dictate the type of wedding venue you choose. Remember that options abound beyond hotel ballrooms, banquet halls and country clubs. Also consider mansions and historic sites, museums or parks. The sky is the limit!

2. Geographic Location -

Where do you want to get married? In your hometown? In your fiance's home town? In the town where you currently live? How about a Caribbean island? With today's jet-set couples, the possibilities really are endless. Don't be afraid to consider something different or unexpected. Perhaps the style or theme of your wedding will dictate the location—a tiki-style hut by the beach, a rustic farmhouse in the country, a posh ballroom overlooking a metropolitan cityscape. You get the idea…

3. Size -

OK—so you have decided to get married in an historic mansion near your hometown. Great—you're almost there! But before you get in your car and start touring wedding venues, there is one final criteria to consider - capacity. No matter how beautiful a place may be, if you anticipate a guest list of 300, cramming them into a facility that seats 150 will quickly turn an elegant affair into a mob of angry guests. Most reception sites make setting capacity information readily available. If not, give a quick call to the general phone number and find out. Make sure to differentiate the capacities for the type of wedding reception you envision (seated dinner, buffet, cocktail reception etc.) There may also be different capacities based on the setting with or without a dance floor.

4. Now Find Your Site! -

Find as many venues that meet these initial criteria as you can. Use this handy online Wedding Venues search to find reception sites and services in your area that meet your needs, and narrow down your list. Then schedule appointments to tour each venue and meet with the manager. After that—it's decision making time!

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Cori Locklin is editor-in-chief for Elegala.com and Elegala Magazine (and a recent bride!). Elegala is a comprehensive ad-free wedding planning resource featuring a nationwide directory of wedding reception sites and their recommended vendors, along with articles, expert advice, checklists and photo galleries to lead brides through every step of the planning process. Wedding Reception visit Elegala.com, your ultimate wedding resource. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cori_Locklin

Tips for Setting Your Reception Schedule

By: George Meszaros

Wedding receptions normally last between three to five hours. A careful planner should make a timetable. It is going to help everyone involved with your wedding including your guests, your caterer, the band, and the photographer. Keeping with the planned schedule can enhance your and your guests’ overall experience.

Regardless of the style or the duration of your reception, planning can benefit everyone. It is imperative that you plan ahead and establish a sequence of events for your reception. Spending time and effort before the wedding can save you from a lot of confusion and unnecessary distractions on your wedding day.

You can expect better results from any plan that is put in writing. Be sure to give a copy to your wedding vendors, your wedding attendants and family members so they know where they need to be and when.

Be as detailed as possible when preparing your reception itinerary. Include names, the order of events, specific locations and song titles of special dances.

As you prepare your schedule, don't be too concerned about exact times. The times on your schedule should act only as a guide and to keep things moving in the right direction and make sure that everything gets done! The order of events is more important than the time of events. The order of events is up to you, but once established you should stick with it.

Because wedding guests should not begin dancing until after the bride and groom have had their first dance, some brides prefer to do their first dance with their husband very early into the reception, before dinner is served. Other brides prefer to do it after dinner, when the "real dancing begins".

If you put in the effort to have every minute planned out, you should complete the process by preparing a printed wedding and reception schedule for your guests. Include the approximate arrival time of the bride and groom, first dance, cake cutting, special toasts to the bride and groom, picture taking, tossing of the bride's bouquet and garter, etc. Getting everything organized ahead of time helps you and your guests to have a lovely wedding reception.

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5 Awesome Wedding Favors

Author: Gabriel Adams

Couples exchanging vows today want their wedding favors to be as unique as they are and express something personal about themselves. Thank your guests for sharing in this very special time by giving them a token of your appreciation that's thoughtful and memorable, a true reflection of your most important day.

Wedding favors don't have to end up costing more than the honeymoon does. In fact, just the opposite is true because favors that are simple and elegant, but meaningful, often convey your message best. And those that are personally made are increasingly popular and lend an extra special touch to any wedding by giving your friends and family the perfect souvenir of your big day.

Whether the sky's the limit as far as price is concerned or you and your bridesmaids will be crafting every piece by hand to save a few dollars, here are five ideas for awesome wedding favors that will leave a lasting impression on your guests and add to the overall ambiance of your wedding.

A Toast to the Happy Couple
A wedding favor that's grown in popularity as of late, are personalized wine or champagne bottles complete with your names and the date of your ceremony. To save on funds, the bottles could be given to each couple instead of per person placed in a decorative bag in the colors of the wedding party's attire.

Let Your Love Grow
If your wedding decorations or bouquets feature a specific flower or a few types of flowers, consider giving guests nicely decorated seed packets to plant at home. This way, a part of your wedding lives on and it gives guests a lovely reminder of your nuptials. You could also place a single flower in a vase or pot at each place setting as well.

Light Up The Night
You can never go wrong with candles, and presentation, of course, is of the utmost importance. Instead of simply wrapping a plain candle in a piece of tulle and tying it with a ribbon, why not put some extra time and thought into the process to truly personalize the favors? Candles can be used in conjunction with a variety of other things such as colorful marbles, sea shells or potpourri, just to name a few.

Picture Perfect
Many couples are opting for true personalization by using photos of themselves in their favors. Pictures can be put into little frames or used in other creative ways such as placed inside snow globes for a winter themed wedding, for example.

Dream Theme
Theme weddings are all the rage with specifically tailored favors to match. Consider the couple getting married in a public zoo that passed out animal crackers wrapped in colorful tulle as their favors. Or the bride and groom who married on the beach and personally collected sand and made decorative candle holders for their guests.

Whether your wedding is being held in a castle right out of a fairy tale or a simpler affair in your own backyard, with a little research and some brainstorming, you can create wedding favors that are as unique and special as you and your beloved are.

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Planning Colors for Your Wedding: Wedding Dresses, Flowers, and More

By Chris Robertson

Dreaming about your wedding is one thing; planning it is another. From wedding dresses to cakes and tuxedos to flowers - every aspect of your wedding must be carefully planned to "fall in place" on the big day! If you've been to one wedding or several, you probably realize the importance of wedding colors. Everything about the wedding is planned according the colors the bride chooses. So, here's a quick guide to help you plan your wedding colors.

Choose the Right Colors for Your Wedding Dresses

Many brides use their favorite colors for their wedding dresses - pink, red, fuchsia, burgundy, plum, mauve, purple, or blue. But before you choose colors, see if you can't find some photos of various weddings from the past. Look at a variety of color patterns and combinations before making your choice. You might find colors that you like much better than your usual favorites.

Consider how the colors of your wedding dresses will look with other colorful items once it is all put together for the big wedding day. The bridesmaid dresses will be matched with flowers, tuxedos, mother of the bride dresses, flower girl dresses, accessories, and even the reception decor.

Wedding Dresses with a Touch of Color

A growing trend is to add a touch of color to the bride's wedding gown. This is perfect for the bride who wants more than the traditional wedding gown. Some brides have color sprinkled throughout their wedding gown with embroidery. The gorgeous embroidery patterns come to life on the wedding dress when color highlights are added. These are usually available in a variety of colors painted on an ivory white wedding gown.

Test Wedding Color Combinations

Don't be afraid to match unusual colors before making your choice. Some color combinations might surprise you. For example, not many would choose bright peach, bright yellow and white, but these are actually beautiful when coordinated together in wedding flower arrangements with yellow dresses! Try out a variety of combinations to find the right wedding colors for you.

Choose Colors that Compliment You

It's your special day. Choose colors that compliment your hair and skin tone. You'll want colors that make you look wonderful on your wedding day. If you normally look great in red, then you'll probably look fantastic amidst red decor and red bridesmaid dresses. Maybe you can even add some red embroidery colors to your wedding gown. Whatever color suits you should work fine for the wedding.

Other Considerations

Other things to consider before choosing your wedding colors include the colors of the church or building where the wedding will be held as well as the reception hall, the types of flowers available for that time of year (if using real ones), and the availability of wedding dresses in those colors.

Once you choose colors for your wedding dresses and flowers, you're ready to start planning the wedding. To save time, you can find a wide variety of wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses, and even prom dresses online. Be sure to choose the colors you love. After all, it is your special day!

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Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International , one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web. Learn more about Plan Your Wedding Colors or Majon's Clothing for Women directory. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Robertson

Should The Bride Wear A Red Wedding Gown?

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

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

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

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Exploring the Dark Side of the Sun

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

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

PREVENTION

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

To safeguard the skin, take these measures:

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

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

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

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

TREATMENT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Tips for Finding the Right Wedding Day Florist

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Wedding Tips - Beautiful Hair, Beautiful Bride

By L Hayes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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L Hayes is a wedding professional and owner of Wedding Favors Emporium. They carry an extensive line of unique wedding favors as well as bridesmaids, groomsmen, and bridal shower gifts. For more information about wedding planning and wedding reception ideas, visit their website at: www.eddingfavorsEmporium.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=L_Hayes

Buying A Wedding Ring? Avoid Classic Diamond Scams

By: Lesley-Ann Graham

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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