DIY Wedding Bouquet -- How to involve your guests!

Here is the ultimate Do-it-yourself wedding idea: as your guests enter the ceremony venue, give each of them a flower. Or you can even ask each guest to bring a flower as a gift!

Then, when you walk down to the altar, you can stop and collect a flower from each guest...assembling your community bouquet as you go.

This gives you an awesome opportunity to involve each guest while building the ultimate do-it-yourself bouquet. I like this way better than a receiving line.

*Recommended Reading*

(Fun book full of great advice!)

Bridal Bargains: Secrets to Throwing a Fantastic Wedding on a Realistic Budget

Wedding Menus for all Seasons

By Cori Russell

Spring Wedding Menu Ideas

Summon the taste of spring with light flavors and delicate textures…

* In Season - serve a main dish featuring ham or lamb

* Fresh produce – round out the meal with a bounty of fresh fruits and young vegetables like baby carrots, baby asparagus and new potatoes

* Elegant sides – serve mini quiches or update traditional deviled eggs by adding salmon or crabmeat

* Bar favorites – a spring menu seems to call for champagne. Mix up a batch of mimosas for a morning wedding, or create a festive champagne cocktail.

Summer Wedding Menu Ideas

Use your summer menu to invoke warmth, sunshine and fun…

* Serve lighter fare – think fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables like berries, watermelon, tomatoes, cucumber, and corn, seafood and lean poultry like chicken. Between courses, serve a light sorbet.

* Spark up the grill - serve traditional picnic and grill fare like barbeque, burgers and potato salad

* Head to the tropics - feature tropical signature cocktails like margaritas, sangria, or mojitos.

Fall Wedding Menu Ideas

Bring out the rich and comforting tastes of autumn…

* Traditional favorites – you cannot go wrong with seasonal standbys: turkey, red potatoes, corn bread dressing, green beans, and honey glazed carrots.

* Family style – re-create a traditional thanksgiving feast by incorporating your family recipes into your wedding menu and serving the meal family style (if your guest list is small).

* Hearty proteins - Choose a hearty meat that will pair with heavier side dishes – turkey, roasted quail, rib roast

* Keep it elegant – you can serve traditional fare in sophisticated, creative ways – present soup or veggie puree in mini shot classes or hallowed out gourds, or warm apple cider in glass mugs with cinnamon sticks.

Winter Wedding Menu Ideas

Warm up to a decadent winter menu with these cool ideas to reflect the season…

* Hearty dishes – serve heartier fare in sophisticated, creative ways – such as colorful butternut squash puree or warm pumpkin soup in ramekins or shot glasses.

* Wintery beverages – warm guests with eggnog, spiced wine or mixed coffee drinks.


Recommended Online Sites

• The Honeymoon Boutique at Bare Necessities


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

How to Be a Good Bridesmaid

Bottom line is that a bridesmaid is an essential helper before, during and after a wedding. There are the obvious things like helping the bride go to the bathroom at the wedding, attending all the showers and bachelorette parties, making sure she eats the day of the wedding, but here are some overlooked pointers that in my mind are ABSOLUTE MUSTS:

Opinions:

Before you get into the nitty-gritty of wedding details take a minute to ask the bride how she wants your opinions. Here are some possible ways to approach this: Does she want you to tell her every thought that comes to your mind when she shows you her dream wedding dress? Does she want you to read her expressions and generally agree with whatever she seems to be liking (this was what I wanted, basically just a confidence boost)? Does she want honest opinions no matter what? This step can really help avoid pre-wedding fights or extra stress on the bride.

Money:

Before you accept the bride’s request to be one of her bridesmaids ask her how much she thinks you’ll be spending. If she’s not sure about the bridesmaid budget, and you don’t have $500 to spend on everything, let her know from the beginning. With the economy as terrible as it is right now you need to approach this gracefully and efficiently. If you are in serious money trouble, you need to tell the bride. If you accept and don’t tell her it can seriously cause unnecessary stress later on when you can’t afford the dress she loves or the Vegas weekend she has her eye on for the bachelorette party. No matter how much you love this bride, it’s not fair to you to spend money you don’t have and it’s not fair to the bride to commit to spending money you don’t have.

Speak up:

When there is something you aren’t comfortable with. I recently ran into this issue with my good friend Meggan. She picked out a really cute dress from David’s Bridal that I’m excited to wear, but then she chose the shoes. They are beautiful gold heels, but they are 4 inch heels. I don’t do heels, I just can’t. I’ve tried, I have terrible balance, and if I fall at her wedding I will die! I felt terrible about this. Meggan is super cute and such a great friend that I was just afraid to bring it up because I didn’t want to upset her. Unfortunately I waited too long and all the other bridesmaids bought the shoes. Once I talked to her she couldn’t change the shoes obviously, so she decided I could just wear the heels in pictures and really similar flat sandals for the ceremony and the rest of the day.

Don’t talk about yourself too much:

This is the brides one and only wedding (hopefully). She wants your opinions on HER wedding, not what you want for your own wedding. I don’t care if you’re getting married two days after her. Here’s a perfect example of what NOT to do. Bride: “I really want a dress that is ivory and covered in lace.” Bridesmaid: “Oh me too, I love lace, I can’t wait to get married.” Here’s an example of what you SHOULD do: Bride: “I really want a dress that is ivory and covered in lace.” Bridesmaid: “Oh that is so you, it will be perfect!”

Go to the maid of honor whenever possible:

If you have questions that you think the MOH can answer, go to her if possible. It is awesome if the bride keeps everyone up to the minute with information, but if not ask the MOH because most likely if you have a question the other Bridesmaids do too.

So in general you really need to communicate with the bride in the beginning, ask her how you can help, what she needs from you and be honest about what you can do up front. I hope this helps bridesmaids and brides as they prepare for the big day! Don’t worry all you amazing bridesmaids out there who are thinking “Yeah I would totally love to help if my friend weren’t such a crazy bridezilla!” I’m going to start working on a “How to Be a Good Bride” post soon so keep checking back for that.

Recommended online sites:

• OneTravel Save Up To 60% On All International Flights.
  
• SkinCubed.com Botox without the needles as seen in Vogue magazine

How to Buy a Diamond ~ The 5 C's

The five C's

You may have heard of the four C's, well, we found five! Here's how to make sure you're spending wisely.

Cut refers to the angles the diamond cutter extracts in transforming a rough diamond into a polished jewel, as well as how much light is reflected from the diamond. The higher the rating, the more light is reflected from the stone. A well-cut diamond shines more intensely than a poorly cut one. A master diamond cutter will have the experience and skill to bring out the fire in any given diamond. Cuts can make a smaller diamond appear larger and more sparkly.

Color measures how little color the diamond has. Generally, the less color and more "white" a diamond is, the better. The rating system works on a range from D (absolutely colorless) to J (color slightly detectable to the naked eye) to Z (colored). Warmer white stones with a hint of yellow look great set in yellow gold and frosty whites dazzle in white gold and platinum. There are also extremely rare, naturally occurring colored diamonds in shades of blue, yellow, orange, green, pink and, the rarest of all, red.

Clarity measures how many "inclusions" a stone has. Inclusions are nicks, cracks, fractures and feathers that occur naturally when a diamond is formed and make up the diamond's unique handprint. To see the inclusions, jewelers and gemologists use a magnifying loupe and rate imperfections on a scale with the highest rating as FL (for "flawless", which is extremely rare) all the way to I1, I2 and I3 (I = imperfect, so I3 is the most flawed).

Carat is the weight of the diamond, not size. The more carats in a single diamond, the more money it costs. If you choose a ring that has one larger stone and another that has two smaller stones of the same carat weight as the single stone ring, the ring with more stones will be less costly.

Certification ensures that your diamonds are authentic and provides you with a reliable safeguard of your diamond's uniqueness. They are generated by independent gem labs that evaluate each diamond and offer a grading report—an objective detailed analysis of an individual diamond. The certification does not appraise the diamonds monetary value, but it does certify the dimensions, rates the 4 C's, indicates flaws, brilliance, inclusions, etc. Certification takes two to four weeks and costs upward of $75 for the first carat and increases incrementally. The most respected and reliable labs include the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the American Gem Society Laboratories (AGSL) and International Gemological Institute.

Suggested online Diamond Dealers

• Angara's A dazzling collection of jewelry & engagement rings at up to 80% off!


• B2C Jewels Smart Buys on Gorgeous Engagement Rings

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

Five Signs Your Friends Hate Your Man

When it comes to your man, you always want the approval of your gal pals. So how do you know if they like him? Here are five signs they don't.

1. They immediately change the subject or abruptly stop talking whenever you mention him.

2. They needle you with passive-aggressive questions, like "You're finally going to be joining the girls this weekend? Is Steve really okay with that?"

3. They purposely exclude him from conversations by cracking inside jokes or discussing people he doesn't know.

4. They make plans to see you only when they're sure he's out of town or won't be available.

5. When he answers the phone, they quickly hang up, then call you on your cell.

What's a bride to do?

Figure out if the friend is actually the problem
If one friend is unhappy, look at your history together. Has she hated all your boyfriends? Jealousy is a powerful emotion, and she may be mourning the loss of your exclusive partnership. Give her time to make the transition and to accept your relationship with your fiancé. Also, be sure to let her know her friendship is extremely important to you. Just hearing that she hasn't been replaced in your life can work wonders.

Don't ignore the power of numbers
When an entire group of friends doesn't care for your guy, there may be a legitimate reason. Does he have a problem with alcohol or drugs? Is he physically or emotionally abusive? If so, you have to take serious stock of the situation. On the other hand, sometimes a group reacts strongly just because you're breaking up the club. If you think that's the case, talk to members of your crew individually, and try to be sensitive to their feelings.

Stand by your man
One of the best ways to mollify concerned friends is to calmly explain why you've chosen to marry this particular person. It's crucial to clarify his attributes for them. Once you've had these discussions, expect support--but be willing to forge ahead without it.

Pave the way
Avoid the tendency to make things easy by keeping your friends and your fiancé apart—distance will only perpetuate the problem. Bring them together in small social gatherings, and allow them to get to know one another on their own terms. However, be prepared for the chance that they'll never like each other. Some personalities just don't mix, and learning to deal with that is a part of life.

—Hillary Quinn, BRIDES magazine

Recommended online Wedding Resources

• Personalized Wedding Gifts for Parents!


• Personalized Bridesmaids Gifts from PersonalizationMall.com

Same Sex Weddings - Common Questions and answers on Planning a Gay Wedding

By Cori Russell


Your relationship may be unconventional, but the premise is still the same: your wedding should be a distinctive expression and celebration of your love for each other. However, certain questions arise when planning a same sex wedding that don't necessarily apply to heterosexual weddings - and that's where this guide comes in. Here are thirteen common questions gay couples face when planning a wedding and some useful insight on how to answer them.

Is the term "wedding" appropriate for gay couples?

The term "wedding" is not exclusive to heterosexual couples. But maybe you don't want to call it that if same-sex marriages are not legal in your state or if it is not an accurate reflection of your experience together. Perhaps you prefer to call it a commitment ceremony, a holy union, a rite of blessing, or another sentimental phrase. Call it what you want, but "to wed" is to unite as a couple, and that is exactly what you plan to do.

What is an appropriate way to make an announcement?

While tradition dictates telling your parents before anyone else - who you tell first depends on who is the most supportive of your relationship. If your folks have been anything but encouraging, you may prefer telling your closest friends first to gain the confidence you may need to break the news to your parents.

If same-sex marriage is not legal in your state, how else can you make it official?

Marriage is more than just a piece of paper. Marriage involves commitment, compromise, even a joint checking account. Aside from that, you may want to write up a relationship agreement that outlines your emotional expectations to each other and have it notarized, listing your partner's name on medical paperwork as your spouse, and including each other in your wills.

Who should marry you?

If same-sex marriage is not legal in your state, then your officiant need not be "official." A judge or a justice of the peace can consent your union symbolically, or a close friend or family member can do the honor. If you so wish, a man or woman of the cloth can also speak at your ceremony.

Is it necessary to let wedding vendors know that you are a same-sex couple?

It's not necessarily if you don't feel comfortable, but rest assured that vendors are not hired to judge you. In fact, letting them know of your unique situation may enable them to infuse creativity into your celebration. You aren't the first couple to plan this type of event, so your vendors may have some good ideas from other gay weddings.

If friends or family members are not accepting of your relationship, should you invite them to your celebration?

If you really think this person will be uncomfortable attending, send an invite anyway and let him or her make the final decision. When it comes down to it, some people may surprise you. Just remind yourself that someone who does not want to attend because they have a problem with your sexuality is probably not someone you want there to celebrate with you.

Should your ceremony deal directly with your sexuality?

Some couples don't feel it is necessary to draw attention to their sexuality, while others want to call out the fact that same-sex weddings are not readily recognized. Ultimately your ceremony should reflect the way you feel about each other, and should speak to why your lives will now be joined in marriage. Include whatever you feel is relevant for your situation and beliefs.

What should take place at the ceremony?

There is no set formula for any wedding ceremony, but there are a few key components that should/could take place: the greeting ("we are gathered here today"), vows, ring exchange, readings, and the pronouncement of marriage, sealed with a kiss. But this is your day, so do what your hearts' desire to make it personal.

How should the processional be arranged?

It is a time-honored tradition for the bride's father to walk her down the aisle. But what do you do when there are two brides or two grooms? There are a number of options: One partner can wait at the end of the aisle while the other walks or is escorted down, you can walk down together, or you can create a seating arrangement with two aisles that convene at the altar. Do whatever is most comfortable for both of you.

What should you wear?

Wear anything that speaks to your style. Women may choose to don the traditional gowns and veils, but if frills and lace aren't your thing, another style of dress or even a pant suit will do. Men can wear tuxedos or a nice suit purchased especially for this occasion. You may choose to wear matching attire or separate outfits to complement your individual style.

Who pays for what?

No matter your sexuality, this will always be an issue. But before you book a site and start sending out save-the-dates, check with any possible contributing parties to figure out who can afford what. Maybe your parents will be willing to chip in for a certain portion of the wedding, or maybe not. This is the case with all marriages - gay or straight. It is important to have this conversation at the beginning of the planning process before you get too deep into the planning process. Our complete budgeting guide offers more advice on setting your wedding budget.

How should you address your new husband/wife?

While there is no unvarying term to describe your same-sex spouse, there are a few standbys that encompass the legitimacy and intimacy of your relationship. Say whatever is most comfortable for you, whether it is husband/wife, spouse, life partner, significant other, companion, or soul mate. Just choose a term that reflects that a new step has been taken in your relationship, and understand that it is okay to adjust his or her title depending on the circumstances of the conversation.

Should you change your name?

Again, changing your name is completely optional and up to you. If you feel a name change is a preferable way to establish your new union, then go for it. Lucky for you, you can choose the better of the two names (or the one that is easiest to spell and pronounce!). You could also hyphenate both of your last names or even come up with a totally different last name for the both of you to take. Get deeper insight into the various last name change options and implications here with this Name Change Kit.

****Great Online Wedding resources****

Wedding Registry

Cori Russell is editor for Elegala.com and Gala Weddings Magazine. Elegala.com is a comprehensive wedding planning resource with a national directory of wedding venues and services, along with articles, expert advice, checklists and photo galleries to lead brides through every step of the planning process.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cori_Russell


*Additional Wedding Advice:

Merry Brides Weddings By Ashlee

Wedding Photography Prices Guide - How to Set Your Photography Budget

By Cori Russell

How much does professional photography cost for your wedding? Learn how to set a realistic photography budget with this guide to wedding photography prices and rates.

The Going Rate for Professional Photography

When determining your wedding photography budget, keep in mind that you get what you pay for. You should expect to spend at least $1000 on having a professional wedding photographer document your wedding (not including the actual prints and other extras). Rates, of course, will vary depending on skill level, experience and geographic region (metro areas are usually considerably higher). The size of your wedding can also affect the photography cost, as additional guests may increase the amount of time that the photographer must spend at your event. For instance, for an event of less than 100 guests, a wedding photographer will typically dedicate four-six hours of time. For a larger wedding of 300 or more guests, a photographer may have to spend eight-ten hours on the job.

Comparing Photographer Rates

Most wedding photographers will give general pricing information over the phone or on their websites, so you can use an initial online search or phone call as your first step towards finding a photographer that suits your budget. In comparing photography costs, remember that different photographers offer different packages - so initial rates can be misleading. Some rates only include the photographer's time, while prints and albums are extra. Other photography packages may include proofs, a set number of prints and an album. Determine what services and options you want first, then compare photographers' rates for providing those specific options to determine which professional works within your wedding photography budget.

Creative Ways to Save on Wedding Photography Prices

If you simply must have a certain photographer who commands higher rates, consider these ways to save on your photography budget:

o Buy a more basic wedding photography package with less prints and albums

o Negotiate and switch out an engagement portrait for an additional parent's album Get even more ways to save on wedding photography prices.

Photography Contract Points

When reviewing your contract with a potential photographer, make sure that it is specifically clear in what it covers. Consider these questions:

o Do you need to make a deposit?

o What is the cancellation policy? Will you get anything back?

o Is any travel time considered an extra or included in the bill?

o Are you entitled to final prints only, or can you obtain all of the proofs?

Now that you're an expert on photography costs and budgeting skills, this complete guide to wedding photography will take you the rest of the way towards hiring and working with a photographer and planning your wedding day shots.

Cori Russell is editor for Elegala.com and Gala Weddings Magazine. Elegala.com is a comprehensive weddings, wedding planning resource with a national directory of wedding venues and services, along with articles, expert advice, checklists and photo galleries to lead brides through every step of the planning process.

****Recommended Wedding Resources****

• Don't order Wedding Invitations before checking InvitationConsultants.com.
• Show your ladies how special they are with The Knot Wedding Shop’s unique bridesmaid gifts -- many with free personalization!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cori_Russell


Additional Wedding Advice: Fun Weddings Weddings By Ashlee

Rain, Rain Go Away! How to deal with rain on your wedding day!

“Happy the bride it rains upon” is an old saying.

Rain on your wedding day was considered good luck because rain assured fertility. And in those days, you were getting married for that very reason. You can decide whether or not you want to fold the fertility into it, but you might as well capitalize on the good luck. Because as fabulous as you are, you still can’t control the weather! They’re predicting an awkward summer. So you might as well build it right into your planning. Don’t be caught off guard. You’ve found the perfect partner. You can figure out how to deal with the rain!

Ceremony Site: Just make sure you have an alternative, if you’re planning an outdoor wedding. Wherever it happens, you’ll be getting married. If you’ve planned a fabulous wedding ceremony and worked hard on your wedding vows, you’re going to have what you need to be married at the end of the day. That’s what’s important, right?

Pictures: If you’re planning off-site pictures, find a fun indoor site for them. Museums? Train stations? What are you interested in? And if you can find time in the day, sneak out and meet your beloved before either of you have begun to get ready for the big event and have someone snap some pictures of the two of you in the pouring rain, or the mist. Just remember not to stand under trees during periods of thunder and lightning!

Attendant gifts: Choose great rain boots as your bridal gifts. Have some pictures taken in them!

Dressing room: Make sure that there’s a place to change clothes at the site. The whole “happy the bride” thing was started back before brides wore tulle and chiffon! Have a couple towels there. Bring your hairdryer, just in case. Hairdryers work well for clothing as well!

Clothing: I’m sure you’ve had your dresses for eons, but if not, consider a knee length or tea-length skirt for bride and attendants. Wear your flip flops there! Consider fun clothes to change into before you leave the site, if it’s still pouring. No sense wading through mud puddles in your white dress unless you’ve decided to trash the very expensive dress you scrimped and saved to buy. (That’s really a waste!)

Favors: consider a great deal on umbrellas in your colors. If the weather cooperates and you’re outside, people can use them as sunshades. And haven’t you always found that carrying an umbrella is a guarantee the weather will be grand? So, if your entire community is carrying umbrellas, it’s got to help, right?

Metaphors: Rain washes the world clean, it supplies life-giving water. Both of these are images that a marriage can incorporate! Use what’s around and let it make your marriage strong and at one with the natural elements.

Décor: Go with it. Throw out the candles and use fish in your centerpieces. Have a sense of humor and play it up.

First Dance: Start out your first dance with “I’m going to love you, come rain or come shine.” And segue into another song that’s equally mushy about a man loving a woman.

Sense of Humor: Nothing is going to be ruined by the rain unless you’re determined that your life, wedding and marriage will be ruined if there is rain. Why do that? Remember how amazing it is that you’re going to marry your beloved. And enjoy it. This is your wedding. Plan the wedding ceremony, craft your wedding vows, focus on your marriage and the wonderful community that has gathered to support you. Let the rain come. You’re busy going about your incredible life and marriage! Have your perfect wedding whatever the weather. You’re more than up to the challenge, because you have one another!

Bottom Line?: Give your relationship the chance it deserves to succeed wildly, against all odds! After all, you deserve it. Your relationship deserves it!

****Great online Wedding Resouces****

• Planning an autumn wedding? See the elegant new fall favors at My Wedding Favors.

Additional Wedding Advice:Weddings by Ashlee Fun Weddings

Wedding Flowers Budget - How Much Do Wedding Flowers Cost?

By Cori Russell

Your floral budget can certainly run the gauntlet. On average you should expect to spend about 8-10% of your overall wedding budget on the flowers. This will include the bouquets, corsages, boutonnieres, and any ceremony and reception decor.

While this is a good estimate, you can modify many floral elements to determine the actual amount you will spend on your wedding flowers. Factors such as whether or not the flowers you choose are in season in your area, the number, size and complexity of the arrangements, and the location of the ceremony and reception all influence your final cost estimate.

You should already have an idea of your overall floral budget before meeting with your florist for the first time. That said, there are a number of ways to cut costs without cutting elegance and beauty.

Ways to Save on Wedding Flowers:

Reduce the number of attendants in your wedding party. Less attendants means your florist will have to create fewer bouquets.
Reduce the number of guests at your wedding. Fewer tables means fewer floral centerpieces.

Choose in-season wedding flowers. They are often less expensive and easier to find. For a list of common flowers for each season, visit our wedding flowers by seasons guide.

Choose a naturally beautiful location. A springtime wedding in a garden hardly needs additional floral arrangements, while an ornate church may be breathtaking on its own. Also consider that many facilities are decorated for the holidays, so holding a December wedding may provide you with gorgeous poinsettias and garland free of cost.

Choose less complicated flowers. Certain flowers will run up of the cost of your floral budget no matter what season. Ask your florist to review your options with you.

Flowers that tend to be expensive: Lily of the Valley, Calla Lily, Orchids, Magnolias, Peonies, Gardenia and Hydrangea.

Flowers that tend to be moderately priced: Orange Blossoms, Lavender, Daffodils, Daisies, Chrysanthemum, Carnations, Roses (due to huge variance in kind, quality, and color) and Greenery, such as ivy.

Consider options other than floral arrangements for table centerpieces. Ask your florist for ideas. Scattered flower petals surrounded by votive candles create an elegant effect that won't maximize your floral budget. This list of unique wedding decorations offers even more ideas for alternative arrangements.

FUN SITES

• Wedding Day Essentials at Bare Necessities
• Bath of the Month Club at Smallflower.com (I love this one!)
• Find Personalized Gifts for all Occasions at MemorableGifts.com

Cori Russell is editor for Elegala.com and Gala Weddings Magazine. Elegala.com is a complete wedding planning resource with a national directory of wedding venues and services, along with articles, expert advice, checklists and photo galleries to lead brides through every step of the planning process. Brides can request wedding vendor quotes from top vendors across the nation.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cori_Russell


Additional Wedding Advice:

MerryBrides
Fun Weddings
Great Wedding Advice

15 Things You Should NEVER Do When Planning a Wedding

By Kelli Zeigler

While planning your wedding you will experience a rollercoaster of emotions. To prevent yourself from turning into a stressed-out Bridezilla here are some simple ideas what NOT to do when planning your wedding.

Never choose a dress with the idea you will lose weight to fit in it later.

Never pay vendors with cash. Always pay with a credit card. That way you will always have proof of payment and will be protected under federal credit card laws. If your vendor drops the ball you will always be able to dispute the charges.

Never book any reception hall without visiting it several times. Visit around the time of day you plan your wedding. For example if your wedding is an evening affair be sure to visit in the evening to see the ambiance. A hall in the daylight will look totally different than the evening light.

Never put your gift registry information on or with your invitation as that is tacky

Never work with a vendor or pay any deposits until you have a written contract. Remember to get every solitary detail in writing. Oral contracts often don't hold up. Even if you are hiring a family or friend get it in writing.

Never take advantage of family and friends who only want to help you. This sounds like common sense but when feeling stressed it is easy to forget and will add even more stress to your life.

Never start to plan haphazardly. Get your budget organized first. Do not contact a vendor until you know what you can comfortably afford to pay without going into debt. Tell the vendor your budget and stand firm. Plan around the budget not the other way around by planning the event then trying to come up with money to pay for it.

Never ever, withhold the final payment from a vendor with the idea that this will pressure them to show up. Many vendors have the philosophy that if you do not pay them by the due date, they will not be there.

Never plan a receiving line if you have more than fifty invited guests or you will bore your other guests silly.

Never get bogged down in the tiny details or you will not be able to relax and enjoy your wedding. Just let small things go. You can't make everyone happy with your decisions. Plus if something does not go quite as planned your guests probably will never even know the difference anyway.

Never treat your hired professional help as your slaves for the day They are there to help make your wedding special so just let them do their job. Treat them with respect.

Never believe everything you see on those reality bridal tv show. You can maybe get some ideas but those are staged weddings and often far from reality.

Never be afraid to speak up to your vendors. If you have questions or complaints with some of their plans/ideas, be sure to tell them so. Even though they are professionals that does not mean they know what is best for you. All weddings are unique and there are no set rules.

Never forget to take care of yourself in the weeks preceding your wedding. Get plenty of sleep, eat healthy, and try to get some exercise. Not only will you look and feel better but also when you feel well you can respond to stress better.

Fun Deals

• Something Borrowed and Something New - Diamond Jewelry Rental
• Big wedding, tiny budget? Shop Ann's Bridal Bargains today!
• Choose from over 900 wedding invitations at FineStationery.com

Kelli Zeigler is the editor of Fun Weddings and Merry Brides which will provide you with daily ideas and tips to help you plan the perfect wedding while staying within your budget.


Additional Wedding Advice:

MerryBrides on Twitter (Check us out!)

To Champagne or not to Champagne?

By Kelli Ziegler

Though we commonly refer to any sparkling white whine as champagne, only the wine made in the Champagne region of France deserves this title. As you might expect, you will pay more for the real thing ( how does $60 a bottle sound) - whereas you can pick up a decent sparkling wine for around $10.00. Unless you have a champagne connoisseur on your guest list, nobody will know the difference, and you will be saving yourself a bundle by buying "fake." If you're like most people, you will only want enough champagne to fill everyone's glass once for the opening(best man's) toast. If your caterer is responsible for procuring the champagne and other liquor, all you have to worry about is the bill; if you have to buy it yourself, assume that each bottle of champagne will yield seven glasses

Fun Deals

12-bottle wine packs at a great value, from MyWinesDirect. This pack ships free!

Personalized Wedding Gifts from PersonalizationMall.comSave big on flights to Europe.

Additional Wedding Advice:

MerryBrides
Fun Weddings
Great Wedding Advice

In-House Caterers

By Kelli Zeigler


If you're lucky, the reception site will have an in-house caterer that fits your budget, serves great food, and knows how to work with you. All hotels offer such services, as do most country clubs. There are several advantages to an in-house caterer, the main one being that you don't have to go through the trouble of finding one yourself. The in-house caterer is already familiar with the particulars of the room, which can carry many advantages (for instance, linens and dinnerware that really compliment the overall atmosphere.)

But the in-house picture is not all roses. In-house catering is usually more expensive than independent catering, often charging you for lots of little extras; often things you don't want or need)as part of one all-inclusive package.

Fun Sites to check out

• A Great source for Bridal Lingerie HerRoom.com
• Personalized Gifts for Wedding's! I love this site! : )

How to Plan a Stress Free Wedding Reception

By Kelli Zeigler

Planning your Dream wedding reception does not have to be as stressful as you may think;

Here are some general guidelines to help plan your reception while keeping your sanity. Some of these suggestions are so obvious you may just forget to even consider them

* If you plan to have more than fifty guests think twice before you decide to have a receiving line.

* Have a realistic concept of a budget and guest count and know your reception site before asking for a proposal from a caterer. Be up front from the beginning as to what your budget is; if you really don't know, then allow the caterer to present you a proposal based on your dream wedding, with suggested ways to pare it down if necessary.

* Note that hotels nearly always charge a city and state tax on the entire bill, along with a service charge, and they also tax the service charge; technically, though some call it a gratuity, legally it is a service charge and not a tip. Don't forget to figure this extra cost in your contract agreement before signing any contracts so you will not have any surprise expenses later on.

* Provide seating for your photographer/videographer in the room where dinner is being served so they do not miss something important while eating back in the kitchen somewhere.

* Figure that each guest will have from tow to three drinks during the reception. That does not mean they are drinking a lot; some people set their drinks down to dance or go to the washroom, and return not remembering where they left their drink.

* If you are having a buffet, make certain there is enough seating at least for the guests not able to easily juggle a drink, plate, napkin, and silverware.

* Provide some food and non-alcoholic beverages for your musicians. Musicians who are treated to a meal are in a better mood, which can translate to better music.

* A full bar isn't necessarily more expensive than a wine/champagne/beer/non-alcoholic bar.

* In addition to the bar, have some drinks (wine.champagne and non-alcholic )beverages served butler-style for those who find it difficult to go get their own drinks.

* Be specific on your RSVP card about the kind of reception you are having.

* Always find out specifically who on the catering staff will be coordinating the the reception with the band, photographer/videographer, and wedding consultant. Make certain all these people are in communication with one another and go over the schedule for the event in advance.

* Some food items (especially for a reception) are cost out according to rate per count (that is number of pieces per item)

* Don't be too creative with your RSVP cards when offering a choice of entrees (most people do not know that boeuf is French for beef. You don't have to go to the other extreme and just say "meat"; most people know the terms filet mignon or rib eye. Remember to offer a vegetarian choice.

Here are some fun sites you might want to check out

• The Bridal Necessities: Everything you need to know about bridal underpinnings

• Wedding invitations that are easy on your pocketbook. Shop Seal N Sends now at Ann's Bridal Bargains.

Additional Wedding Advice:

You can catch some great wedding planning advice at Merry Brides on Twitter. Stop by for some quick planning ideas.

Delicious Hors D'Oeuvres ideas for your Wedding Reception

At a Wedding Reception where a full meal is to be served, hors d'oeuvres may be offered to guests during the first hour of the reception. However, at a tea or cocktail reception, hors d'oeuvres will be the "main course".

There are may options for hors d'oeuvres, depending on the formality of your reception and the type of food to be served at the meal. Popular food that can easily be picked up and eaten with one hand are best.

Here are some delicious hors d'oeuvre ideas you may want to consider

* Chinese Won Tons with a plum Sauce
* Chicken and Shrimp Egg Rolls with a plum sauce
* Pot Stickers with a Sesame Sauce
* Glazed Chicken Drumettes
* Swedish Meatballs
* Italian Meatballs
* Seafood Salad Mould with assorted crackers
* Petite Cocktail Quiches
* Stuffed Deviled Eggs with choice of: coconut and chutney, traditional or topped with caviar
* Imported and Domestic Cheese Display with assorted crackers
* Fresh Fruit Fantasy with Strawberry Chiffon Dip or Chocolate Fondue
* Warmed Spree of Brie Cheese topped with brown sugar and nuts, served with French bread
* Teriyaki Ribbon Chicken or Beef
* Italian Sausage Marinara
* Salmon Mousse on toast rounds
* Cascading Vegetable Display with a fresh dill dip
* London Tea Sandwiches
* California Baja Rolls
* Taquitos
* Tomato, Cucumber and Green bean Salad
* Tomato, Mozzarella and Bermuda Onion Salad
* Rumaki
* Bacon Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Sun Dried Apricots
* Fresh Melon Wrapped in Honey Baked Ham
* Mushrooms Stuffed with Spiced Cream Cheese
* Sautéed Mushrooms in a pastry shells

Hors d' oeuvres may be set out on tables "buffet style" for gues to help themselves, or they may be passed around on trays by waiters and waitresses.

When selecting hors d' oeuvres for your reception, consider whether heating or refrigeration will be available and choose your food accordingly. When planning your menu, consider the time of day. You should select lighter hors ' oeuvres for midday receptions and heavier ones for an evening reception.

Tips to Save Money:

Tray pass hors d'oeuvres during cocktail hour and serve a lighter meal.

Avoid serving hors d 'oeuvres that are labor intensive or that require expensive ingredients. Compare two or three caters; there is a wide price range between caterers for the same foods.

Consider serving hors d'oeuvres "buffet style" . Your guests will eat less this way than if waiters and waitresses are constantly serving them.

If you want more ideas check out this book


Additional Wedding Advice:

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

33 Best R&B Songs For Your Wedding Reception

By Cori Russell


If you're looking to set a sensuous vibe at your wedding reception, look no further than a playlist full of R&B wedding songs. With smooth bass lines and sultry lyrics, R&B songs of love and devotion are perfect for moving, grooving, and romance on the dance floor. But with decades of songs to choose from, the only hard part is narrowing your playlist down. Consider this list of the best R&B wedding songs your starting point .

R&B Wedding Songs

These passionate R&B wedding songs have fitting lyrics and sultry melodies that will suit every component of your wedding from walking down the aisle through to the last dance.

• Never - Jaheim
  
• Forever My Lady - Jodeci
  
• Sweet Love - Anita Baker
  
• Caught Up in the Rapture - Anita Baker
  
• Spend My Life with You - Eric Benet & Tamia
  
• Nice and Slow - Usher
  
• You Got It Bad - Usher
  
• Ribbon in the Sky - Stevie Wonder
  
• You Mean the World to Me - Toni Braxton
  
• Always and Forever - Heat Wave
  
• On Bended Knee - Boyz II Men
  
• Never Let Go - Faith Evans
  
• Angel of Mine - Monica
  
• For You I Will - Monica
  
• The Sweetest Thing - Lauren Hill
  
• No Ordinary Love - Sade
  
• You - Jesse Powell
  
• The Cool in You - Babyface
  
• By Your Side - Sade
  
• I Swear - All-4-One
  
• Make it Last Forever - Keith Sweat
  
• Here and Now - Luther Vandross
  
• Every Beat of My Heart - Brian McKnight
  
• Back at One - Brian McKnight
  
• Saved the Best for Last - Vanessa Williams
  
• Crazy Love - Aaron Neville
  
• All My Life - K-Ci and Jojo
  
• Suddenly - Billy Ocean
  
• No One - Alicia Keys
  
• Hello - Lionel Richie
  
• Saving All My Love for You - Whitney Houston
  
• Everything - Mary J. Blige
  
• Family Affair - Mary J. Blige

Fun Site you might want to check out:

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

Cori Russell is editor for Elegala.com and Gala Weddings Magazine. Elegala.com is a complete wedding planning resource with a national directory of wedding venues and services, along with articles, expert advice, checklists and photo galleries to lead brides through every step of the planning process. Brides can request wedding vendor quotes from top vendors across the nation.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cori_Russell

Additional Wedding Advice:

Fun Weddings
Great Wedding Advice
MerryBrides

How To Make An Affordable Wedding Cake Topper

As a bride you will want your wedding cake to stand out above the rest. Why go with the cheap plastic topper when you can make your own unique topper. In addition to the simple idea of adding fresh flowers to your wedding cake, here are some other affordable cake topper ideas:

* Wine Glass with Flowers

Stand a wine glass on a round mirror for stability; fill it with silk flowers and tufted netting; tie the stem of the glass with a bow and add swirls of tulle netting around the edge of the mirror.

* Tiny White Basket with Flowers

Use the same idea, only with a basket instead of a wine glass.

* Framed Photo of the Bride and Groom

The trick to this simple cake topper is to round up an elegant white ceramic or lacy crystal
frame for the couple's photo; set it on a five-inch by one-inch base of white Styrofoam covered with silk flowers, tufts of white tulle netting and strings for white seed pearls , one of which drapes over an upper corner of the frame.

* Bride and Groom Figurines (Precious Moments)

Surely you know someone who collects Precious Moments figurines; ask if you can borrow one for a bride and groom, setting the bisque figurine on a mirror with sprigs or white silk stephanotis sprinkled around the edge of the mirror and at the feet of the bride and groom.

* Blown Glass

There are dozens of traditional blown glass figures that work as well, from two hearts entwined, to a wishing well, to a pair of love doves, to a wedding bell suspended from a heart.

* Wired Ribbon Bows

I saw a wedding cake recently that was beautifully adorned with affordable wired ribbon bows. The top layer had a large three-inch wired bow "Sitting up" on top. The remaining layers each had five smaller one and one-half inch wired bows placed evenly around each layer. Each of the bows had their "tails" draping gracefully down onto the next layer by about two inches. The bows were in the primary wedding color--a soft , dusty pink. What a simple, affordable, yet elegant way to decorate a white wedding cake.

* Nested Votive Candles

By "nestled" I mean that the shallow votive candles are pressed down into the frosting so that the sides of the candles are hidden from view. This would look lovely in an evening wedding with all the lights dimmed and the candles are lit. The trick is to make your reception feel like a magical romantic setting. Besides putting candles on the cake you could place votive candles in bowls filled with water on each table. Light all the candles and dim the lights and your venue will be romantically lit by candlelight.

* Rotating Music Box

Borrow a music box that compliments your theme; set it to a mirror, surround the base with silk flowers and narrow acetate ribbons and the appoint someone to be in charge of winding the box off and on during the reception. It will be a real conversation piece.

My recommendations for Online Wedding Favors:

• The Knot Wedding Shop has the best selection of wedding favors. Make them unique for your wedding with free personalization.
  



• Make your dreams come true with these magical wedding favors from My Wedding Favors.
  

Jasmine MacDonald is the editor of Fun Weddings and Merry Brides which will provide you with daily ideas and tips to help you plan the perfect wedding while staying within your budget.


Additional Wedding Advice:

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

Engagement Rings - Guide to Ring Settings

By Cori Russell

When it comes to shopping for engagement rings, it's best to come equipped with a little savvy. Ring settings, the mountings that attach the diamond to the ring's band, are an integral component in achieving the right look for your ring, as some are more appropriate for certain diamond shapes. Here is a complete rundown of the most common engagement ring settings.

Prong

Prong settings usually have six or four prongs (or claws) that cradle the diamond. Prongs allow the maximum light to enter the diamond from all angles, making it appear larger and more brilliant. The prong setting with a solitaire round brilliant stone is the classic engagement ring look.

Bar

A variation on the prong setting, rather than individual claws, prongs on each side of the setting are fused into elongated bars to hold the stone in place. This option highlights more metal without obscuring the stone as much as bezel or channel settings might.

Bezel

The diamond is set with a metal rim around the perimeter of the diamond to hold it in place. A bezel setting can be a full bezel, or a part bezel. In a part bezel setting, the metal only partially surrounds the diamond, leaving the top and bottom of the stone exposed.

Tension

The diamond is held in place by the pressure of the band's metal, resulting in the startling appearance of the diamond being held in midair. The result is a highly contemporary, fashionable look.

Channel

Diamonds of similar size and shape are lined in a row between the band's two horizontal sides. A variation of the channel setting is the Channel End setting - which features thin vertical bars in between each of the stones.

Pave

This design coats the entire surface of the ring with gems, each set into either a minute depression or secured with thin, unobtrusive prongs. Because of their vintage antique look, pave settings are becoming increasingly popular.

Cluster

This setting surrounds a larger center stone with several smaller stones. It is designed to create a larger ring from many smaller stones.

Baguette

Setting Baguettes are rectangular shaped diamonds that can be added to the sides of a larger stone, adding dimension to a solitaire setting.

Three Stone Setting

This setting features a trio of stones (symbolizing yesterday, today and tomorrow). The stones can either be of equal size or the center stone slightly larger.

Our Recommendations for Great Online Diamond Deals

• Zales - Nothing says Love like a Diamond from Zales Blowout Sale

• Save 50% on All Classic Solitaire Engagement Rings!

• Diamond Jewelry at Mondera

Author: Cori Russell is editor for Elegala.com and Gala Weddings Magazine. Elegala.com is a comprehensive wedding planning resource with a national directory of wedding venues and services, along with articles, expert advice, checklists and photo galleries to lead brides through every step of the planning process. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cori_Russell


Additional Wedding Advice:

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