Tuesday, December 9, 2008

Wedding Colour Themes for Spring and Summer Brides

Wedding Colour Themes for Spring and Summer Brides
By Emily Tanner

Once the proposal has been accepted, the dress ordered, the invitations sent and the venue booked, its time to start thinking about the main colour themes that will be running through the big event. No doubt, your handsome groom has some ideas of which colours he would rather not wear and equally you need to consider what will look good on your bridesmaids. Choosing bridesmaid outfits is more difficult if you have a range of ages, shapes, sizes and hair colour amongst them, which is the case in most bridal parties. Another important consideration is what colours are in the room where the reception will take place.

There is no real reason why you cannot have any colour at any time of year once you have considered all the aforementioned factors, although if we are going to be pedantic about it you should really choose a seasonal colour theme. In other words, go for pinks, light greens, light golds and lilacs in the Spring/Summer and keep browns, creams, reds, and dark golds for the colder months.

Lilacs and hyacinths are always the winners if you are marrying in the Spring or Summer; they have been the most popular bridesmaid dress colours for over 10 years and are still up there as one of the most common colour ways. Dont let this put you off though, in fact, use it to your advantage as it proves that lilac colour themes have been tried, tested, look great, come out great in photographs and suit most people. What more proof do you need? You can make your big day feel more modern by ensuring floral arrangements are fresh and funky. Why not scatter tables with real lilac coloured rose petals and introduce lilac butterflies to your theme? Decorate place cards and napkins with lilac and silver butterflies, scatter them on the tables, incorporate them in lavender and hydrangea floral arrangements and put them on your wedding cake. These days, lilacs are very much en vogue and although have a traditional feel they need not be stayed, stale or old fashioned.

Pink and Silver wedding themes are fast becoming popular for Spring and Summer brides. Every girl wants to feel like a princess on her special day and what better way to do it than with girlie pinks and silvers!? Candy pink generally looks great on all age bridesmaids and those with all hair and skin colours. Equally, pink will look great on the male members of the bridal party, if you can convince them! If your man is anti-pink, why not get him to wear silver? This will co-ordinate beautifully with the pink. Bouquets can be bursting with pink and white blooms dotted with pearls and diamantes. To keep the princess theme going, opt for silver table decorations and foil scatters along with baby pink rose petals.

One of the more modern colour themes to make an appearance this year has been the explosion of greens and yellows. These look absolutely fantastic and depending on how daring you are, will determine how mad you go. If you are going for a simple, calm wedding, why not go for sage green bridesmaids? These will look fabulous when teamed with white and pale gold accessories and flowers. If you are more adventurous go for a tropical yellow and continue the theme with sunflowers and citrus coloured gerbera or for a complete contrast, mix the yellow theme with purple flowers !

This article is brought to you by World of Wedding Favours - Offering brides high quality wedding favours and bomboniere at low-cost prices. To view our vast range of wedding favours to suit your special occasion please visit: Real Rose Petals

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Saturday, November 29, 2008

Your Breast Cancer Treatment Team

Your Breast Cancer Treatment Team
By Michael Russell

Today, the majority of breast cancers are diagnosed by mammography. There cancers are small, often too small to be felt and surgeons usually rely on radiologists to localize these small cancers with a hook wire or some injected dye. The technology has changed drastically and we have entered a new era of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Because of the many elements that come into play in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, coordination is necessary among the team of physicians: surgeon, radiation oncologist, cancer pathologist, plastic surgeon, radiologist and medical oncologist.

Ideally, a woman with a recent diagnosis of breast cancer communicates with a primary physician who takes charge of developing a treatment plan with her and then coordinates its implementation. These team members can work at a single institution or be drawn from a wider geographic distribution and any of the cancer specialists can act as the coordinating physician. Often, it is the medical oncologist who coordinates the flow of information and treatment for the patient, but many surgeons and radiation oncologists take on this pivotal role as well.

It is important that breast cancer patients find a cancer specialist that she can communicate with and who will address her concerns. However, there are medical systems in which it may be difficult for the patient to connect with one physician who will act as her coordinating team leader. If you are in this situation, don't despair. You just need adequate information to get you the treatment you need and be your own team leader. It is possible to go through this process without a physician to spearhead your treatment plan and still get high quality health care.

The overall treatment plan revolves around two critical decisions. One deals with local control and the second with the need for systemic therapy. Often, cancer patients and their doctors cannot decide upon the issue of systemic therapy until all the information is available from the surgical procedure.

Since the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer are done primarily on an outpatient basis, cancer patients may travel to various locations for different aspects of treatment. Some women may come to a breast cancer facility for the definitive surgery and then have radiotherapy at a facility closer to their home. If patients require various therapies, it is important to consider doing something similar in order to make treatment appointments as convenient as possible.

One of the key tools used in coordinating a woman's care is a treatment planning conference. This conference is a meeting of treatment team members to discuss the patient's case and to develop a coordinated treatment plan based on the patient's situation. The conference allows each of the team members to view a common history, the radiological breast images, the pathology report and pathology images. The patient is usually excluded from the treatment planning conference in order to allow an honest exchange of opinions between the team members. The treatment planning conference is very important in coordinating care. Each of the potentially treating physicians can, in one setting, agree on an overall treatment plan and their particular contribution to that plan. This united approach also guarantees that the physicians line up the sequencing of the different therapies correctly and in the manner that is most beneficial to the cancer patient.

Besides benefiting the woman with breast cancer, the nature of the conference itself promotes education and understanding on the part of various physicians involved. Women diagnosed in the future stand to benefit greatly from the shared pool of information that these conferences provide medical professionals in general.

Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Breast Cancer

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=MichaelRussell
http://EzineArticles.com/?Your-Breast-Cancer-Treatment-Team&id=301769

Monday, November 24, 2008

Winter Wedding Destinations

Winter Wedding Destinations
By Shari Hearn

Toying with the idea of a winter destination wedding, but not sure you want to hold the most special moment of your life in the coldest months of the year? Maybe its time to change your thinking. Winter weddings can be magical events. With a winter wedding you can choose any type of wedding you want. The bride can arrive at the church in a sleigh. Or, maybe she can ski down a mountain slope at a fancy ski resort. Or, perhaps the bride and groom can enjoy a sand ceremony on the beach.

Wait a minute. A sleigh, ski resort, and a beach? Something doesnt belong here. Were talking winter, right?

Thats the great part. A winter destination wedding or elopement means you can chose the type of winter you want. You can have the traditional winter of snow, or head off to a warmer destination. So, what kind of a winter wedding do you want?

Snowy Winter Weddings

Lets face it. To some people theres nothing more romantic than sitting together in front of a roaring fireplace, sipping hot cider, champagne or red wine. Whether youre thinking of eloping, or planning a destination wedding with a group of close relatives and friends, a ceremony at a historic New England Inn or ski resort in Colorado or Utah could be just for you.

Many inns and resorts of New England have special winter wedding packages, such as the Stonebridge Country Club in Manchester, New Hampshire and the Interlaken Inn of Lakeville, Connecticut.

Perhaps you and your future spouse are ski fanatics. What better way to celebrate your marriage than to have a wedding at your favorite ski resort? It will certainly give your guests something fun to do after the ceremony. Most ski areas and resorts have wedding packages available, so you have your choice of such wonderful ski areas and resorts all over the country, like Lake Tahoe, California, Vail, Colorado and Stowe, Vermont. Theres even one town in the Adirondacks of New York which offer free skiing at the town-owned Ski Center. Chestertown in the Adirondacks would make a great winter wedding location, offering wedding guests free cross-country ski trails, a rope tow for downhill skiing, a tobogganing hill and a covered ice-skating rink. In addition, Chestertown has numerous cabins and bed and breakfast inns for you and your guests.

If some of your guests arent into downhill skiing, many ski areas offer other winter activities, such as cross-country skiing or tubing.

Warmer Winter Weddings

Okay, so youre from Vermont and youre sick of snow. You want to get away from the snow for your wedding or elopement. Follow the sun! Florida, California, Arizona, Hawaii and Mexico.

Phoenix, Arizona may seem like a furnace during the summer, but for winter weddings, it offers nice weather, luxurious spas and resorts, as well as the Desert Botanical Gardens in which to host your wedding.

While California beaches may be colder during the winter months, they still are beautiful places to wed. And, during the winter months, you can practically have some romantic beach spots to yourselves.

Winter weddings can offer so many choices. The hard part will be deciding which wonderful wedding destination to choose.

Shari Hearn is a writer and creator of Destination Weddings and Ski Vacations websites.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=ShariHearn
http://EzineArticles.com/?Winter-Wedding-Destinations&id=325397

Sunday, November 23, 2008

Cheap Flights & Hotels for Weddings In India!

Cheap Flights & Hotels for Weddings In India!
By Annie Jones

With the romantic hues of pink all round you, the romantic cities of India never fails to satisfy all your touristic senses. It is no wonder then that India has fast become one of the most popular places on earth in which to tie the knot? Yes, more and more couples are choosing to get married Maharajah-style at one of the opulent palaces in a style reminiscent of the British Raj. For more information on wedding & holiday packages to Jaipur, check out www.ticketstoindia.co.uk for great deals on air fares and discounted hotel rates. Do not even try and book a hotel in Jaipur directly yourself unless you have just won the lottery! Prices are sky high and it is only through a specialist tour operator that you can be assured of excellent quality combined with low prices.

Located just a short drive from the capital city, New Delhi and close to Agra (home to the Taj Mahal), the royal city of Jaipur (also known as The Pink City due to the predominant colour of its buildings), is well established as one of the most romantic places on earth to get married. From the rich history of its palaces to the gorgeous landscaped gardens of the luxury hotels to the serenity of the floating palace on Ramgarh Lakeeverywhere you look there is pinkthe colour of romance.

Jaipur is the throbbing, vibrant capital city of the colourful state of Rajasthan where the regal ambience of yesteryear is still felt throughout the citys numerous carved arches and once-bejewelled fortress walls. Enter this mystical city through a narrow, cobbled street where street vendors selling everything from sweetmeats to silver trinkets and leather slippers call out to passing trade. Pass the huge hill on the right with its stunning royal residence where decorated elephants obediently transport delighted tourists to the top for its amazing vistas of the city spread out below. Follow the winding road until you begin to see the glittering lights of the citys numerous palaces begin to emerge on the left hand side across the glistening waters of the Ramgarh Lake. Stop to take pictures or simply gaze in stunned silence at the beauty of the floating palace of Ramgarh perfectly illuminated by golden lights strategically placed on all four corners of the palace.

And then comes the main citysurprisingly wide, clean roads with some of the most well known brand names dotted on each sidefrom the newly opened Hilton Trident to the Sheraton and Le Meridienyou will find a massive choice of premium accommodation in Jaipur. Each hotel has retained the citys former glory and royal demeanour and the service excels itself. Just remember to book your stay well in advance to avoid disappointment, as it is busy year round in this city of royal romance. Some of the most highly recommended hotels to stay in whilst visiting Jaipur include the Taj Groups Rambagh Palace and the Jai Mahal Palace Hotel. The opulence of both hotels will literally take your breath away and many a wedding takes place in the perfectly landscaped grounds of these hotels with their backdrop of lush palms and fountains.

A quick tip: whether staying at the Rambagh Palace or not, do take time to enjoy the delicious al-fresco breakfast buffet where the smart Jodhpur & waistcoat clad staff will treat you like royalty. With eggs made to order and succulent sausages and bacon following plates of the freshest, sweetest fruits, the plump muffins and Danish pastries are hard to refuse especially when accompanied with a choice of teas, coffee and piping hot chocolate. And all served in the finest china and silver.

Drive further down the main boulevards of Jaipur city and you come to a set of intricately carved arches, which divide the Old City from the New City. Once through the arches, your senses are immediately assaulted by the noisy onslaught of rickshaws, buffalo carts, taxis, bicycles, scooters, elephants and cars all jostling for space on the same road. Whistle blowing policemen, horn blowing cars, mooing cows and convincing street peddlars create a melodious harmony of ethnic sounds, which to the first time visitor to Jaipur, can be quite startling!

In addition to booking your flights and accommodation, we can also arrange:

  • Meet & Greet at Airport
  • Assistance of a Wedding Planner
  • Wedding Day schedule
  • A beauty treatment for the bride (manicure /pedicure /hair styling etc)
  • A professional wedding photographer to record memories of your special day.
  • Assistance with all legal paperwork
  • Appointment at the Registrars Office the day before the Wedding

Annie Jones writes about Weddings In India. Get more information about Cheap Flights To India at http://www.ticketstoindia.co.uk

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http://EzineArticles.com/?Cheap-Flights-and-Hotels-for-Weddings-In-India!&id=116475

Saturday, November 22, 2008

Why Fuss Over Wedding Centerpieces Simple Ideas

Why Fuss Over Wedding Centerpieces - Simple Ideas
By Daisy May

Dreaming of having the perfect wedding is what every bride and groom wish for and why wouldnt they with all the time and effort they put into the preparations. Wedding plans and what goes on behind the scenes is very time consuming. Things like ordering the wedding bands, gown, and securing the date for the reception hall and chapel can all prove to be an ordeal, but if carefully thought out instead of leaving arrangements like this to the last minute then you can be sure of a smooth road ahead. Sometimes it is the little things that are overlooked that can cause the whole event to go pear shaped and one being is the absence of a centrepiece. Wedding centrepieces are beautiful embellishments that are extremely important. These eye catching pieces of work will add beauty where ever they are placed.

Centrepieces do not have to be the centre of attention on the day but if displayed with perfection in mind then expect surrounding areas to send out volumes of high tone attractiveness especially if the centrepiece is flowers.

Classical yet simple wedding centrepieces intend to evolve round flowers and ornaments. Flowers without doubt are a hot favourite for couples tying the knot because of the way the nature blooms add colour and project a lingering natural fragranced aroma. Check availability on flowers because they are seasonal and therefore your choice may have to be shipped in from another country.

Have an organiser come in early to arrange all flower displays; this will give you time to satisfy your curiosity of how they will look. Remember wrong blossoms can do more harm taking away beauty instead of enhancing it. Other ideal options for a wedding centrepiece are silver candelabras. If you are considering floating candles in a glass bowl then you have a guarantee of a pretty enough sight to take the limelight

Depending on where you marry centrepieces will differ, if the wedding ceremony is to be held in the garden then consider nature for your theme. Miniature birdhouses and flower baskets are fabulous items that can be used.

If after all those months of scrimping and scraping and you find your self still counting the pennies then budget wisely but do not fret. Have fresh fruit, just as sweet smelling as flowers but this way you get the best of both worlds where you have a centre piece juicy enough to eat.

A fabulous site for all wedding essentials is http://www.your-wedding-planning-help.com. If baking your own cake tickles your fancy then educate yourself on what you need to know http://www.allaboutonlineeducation.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=DaisyMay
http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-Fuss-Over-Wedding-Centerpieces---Simple-Ideas&id=144173

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Fall Spring and Summer Wedding Invitation Ideas

Fall, Spring and Summer Wedding Invitation Ideas
By Chris Ryerson

Are you in the process of choosing a wedding invitation for your wedding? This can be a tricky process and one that should be thought about carefully. The wedding invitations that you send will be the first impression that people will have of your wedding and you want to have a good first impression.

Time

One of the first and most important considerations for your wedding invitation should be the time that the wedding will take place. If you are having your wedding in the winter or fall your invitations will look very different then spring wedding invitations. Below are some common ideas and tips that will help you make the right decision.

Fall Wedding Invitations

If your wedding will take place in the fall or winter time then you will want to theme your wedding invitations to fit the season. It would not make sense to have an invitation with spring lilies on it for example. For some of the typical fall wedding invitation ideas think about what fall means to you. The weather is getting colder outside and the leaves are all turning beautiful shades of red, browns, and deep yellows and falling from the trees. There might already be snow on the ground and it is the time to start snuggling up next to a warm fire and a very traditional time for lovers and family with the winter holidays on the way. These are the feelings that you will want to portray in your fall or winter wedding invitations.

Colors: browns, greens, gold, or white or even off white

Decoration and motifs: wide burgundy ribbons and bows, fall leaves, pine cones, pine trees, gold leaf, embossing and watermarks

Papers: you will want a paper with some tooth or texture to it. Heavy weight or heavy bond papers work well and give it a wonderful fall feel. Also papers with a deckled or unfinished edge are a nice touch. Burlap can even be used if thought about and used carefully.

There are a lot of different options if you are looking for cheap or discount fall wedding invitations for the fall season. You can easily make the invitations on your computer. Also if you look online you can easily find a ton of suppliers that will make discount wedding invitations. These can be a great way to save money.

Spring Wedding Invitations

Typically spring is a time of new life, bright new colors and blooming flowers! These are all things that you will want to pick up in your spring themed wedding invitations. No matter what you are looking for elegant spring wedding invitations or a more simple or even discount spring wedding invitations you will still want to capitalize on the time of year. Again you will want to think about what spring means to you and your fiance.

Colors: any shade of pink, light greens, silver, and of course pure white

Decorations and Motifs: flowers like lilies or roses, tulips and daises. Butterflies and birds also work well.

Papers: thick white papers with a heavy bond work well. Also handmade papers with pressed flowers can make a wonderful spring invitation.

Summer Wedding Invitations:

If you are planning on getting married in the summer months then of course you will want a summer wedding invitation. These can be anything in a wide range of possibilities from the fun and whimsical summer invitation to the more formal invitation. IT again really depends on what summer means to you. You might think of fun sunny days spent at the beach or relaxing days spent out in the garden.

Colors: pastel colors in pinks, light blues, pure white and yellows

Decorations: beach items, raffia, tool (fabric), light muslin cloth,

Papers: vellum, light weight or light bond papers, handmade papers with pressed flowers,

A wedding invitation can be a very fun yet important part of the wedding planning. Since it is so important and it will act as the first impression that your guests will have of the wedding and often will become a memory or keepsake item for you it is important to spend some time thinking about the right option for you. You can easily pick up on the theme of your wedding and especially bring in the time of year. A dark velvety red wedding invitation will obviously look out of place for a summer wedding.

It doesnt matter if you are looking for a fall, winter, spring or summer wedding invitation there are a lot of ways that you can find affordable discount wedding invitations and there is always the option to make them yourself. DIY wedding invitations are becoming more popular all the time. So if you are sending out fall wedding invitations, spring invitations or summer invitations you are sure to find a wide variety of colors, decorations, and papers that will work for you. By planning ahead and shopping carefully or even making it yourself you are sure to save big money and have a wonderfully themed wedding invitation.

Free 5 Day Wedding Savings ecourse sent to your email. Or for great information onFall, Spring and Summer Wedding Invitations check out Plan Best Wedding.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=ChrisRyerson
http://EzineArticles.com/?Fall,-Spring-and-Summer-Wedding-Invitation-Ideas&id=179588

Friday, October 17, 2008

Prepare for Your Marriage Not Just the Wedding

Prepare for Your Marriage, Not Just the Wedding
By Susanne Alexander

With literally hundreds of details to remember in preparing for a wedding, you might forget a very important step: marriage preparation, a research-proven step that contributes to lasting marriages. When we are madly in love and dreaming of special dresses and wedding music, it can be easy to think that marriage will be a perpetual honeymoon, filled with constant happy moments, romantic days and nights, and light-hearted fun. Actually, your marriage can be great and filled with joyful timeswith some preparation, key skills, and realistic expectations. Marriage education and preparation workshops, counseling/coaching, and books can be a great pre-marriage present from your family too!

Here are some options to consider:

- Engage in great in-depth discussions, using books that provide questions for couples to ask one another; such as, 365 Questions for Couples, The Hard Questions, or Marriage Can Be ForeverPreparation Counts! These kinds of discussions strengthen your friendship and ensure youre compatible. Important keys areas to discuss thoroughly before marriage include money, children, religion, family relationships, and more. If youre having difficulty with the discussions, you might consider asking a married couple to mentor you and assist you with the process.

- Know the character strengths that are important to you in a partner, and ensure your partner has them, so you are confident your marriage will be on a firm foundation. Character qualities that are vital in marriage include truthfulness, trustworthiness, faithfulness, courtesy, respect, helpfulness, and more. For more information on this topic, see Pure Gold: Encouraging Character Qualities in Marriage (Second Edition), (ISBN: 0-9726893-5-4)

- Assess your relationship/couple strengths and growth areas with the assistance of a trained counselor or relationship coach so that you know what skills you may need to continue developing as a couple.

- Learn vital communication skills that will have you avoid conflict and fighting with one another and reach effective agreements instead. A great resource for books, videos, and workshops is The Prevention and Relationship Enhancement Program (PREP) (www.prepinc.com).

- Assess the activities you do together leading up to the wedding and choose to participate in ones that will strengthen your friendship and assist you to know one another well. Great choices include performing community service, spending time with friends and family members, practicing spiritual activities, or working on a project together.

- Develop a list together of your shared commitments for your marriage. You can include whatever practices are most important to you in sustaining your marriage, such as weekly dates, praying with one another, enjoying time with children, continuing your education, treating one another with courtesy and love, deciding how you will settle disagreements, and so on.

- Prepare a list of your assets and debts, and create a post-wedding budget for your lives together. Agree on how you will handle your money during your marriage. Money can be a key area for marital conflict, and you may prevent some of it with advance planning.

So, heres what there is to rememberyou are preparing for a wonderful wedding day, an event that marks your transition into marriage, something you want to last a lifetime. Preparing for the marriage is a great investment of time in your future.

Websites, such as http://www.lifeinnovations.com or http://www.foccusinc.com, can direct you to research-based, professional services.

Copyright 2006 Susanne M. Alexander

Susanne M. Alexander is a relationship coach and marriage educator, as well as author of Can We Dance? Learning the Steps for a Fulfilling Relationship and Pure Gold: Encouraging Character Qualities in Marriage. She is president of Marriage Transformation LLC (http://www.marriagetransformation.com).

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=SusanneAlexander
http://EzineArticles.com/?Prepare-for-Your-Marriage,-Not-Just-the-Wedding&id=362508

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Choosing a Caterer for Your Wedding Reception

Choosing a Caterer for Your Wedding Reception
By Jasmine Macdonald

Your wedding reception is the biggest party you will ever throw so you want to make sure you do it right. Choosing the right caterer is essential. Take it from me not all caterers are created equal.

Here is a list of tips to help your choose a great caterer

1. Get Referrals

A good place to start looking for a caterer is right in your own backyard. Ask your married friends, family and coworkers for referrals. You can also look in your local phone book. When you're interviewing your caterer, ask him/her to supply you with references. If the caterer refuses your request, it may be a good idea to leave and go onto the next interview.

2. Licenses & liability Insurance

Make sure the caterer is licensed in your state and has liability insurance. Insurance is very important in case one of your guests gets food poisoning (God Forbid!), chips a tooth, or is involved in an accident after leaving your reception. If the caterer does not have insurance, ask him/her if you can buy some.

3. Budget

The main thing you must consider is your budget. Before meeting with your caterer know exactly how much money you can afford to spend. A good caterer is creative and will gladly work with you to make sure you can stick to that budget. Do not let the caterer talk you into something you cannot afford as you do not need the extra stress worrying about how to pay for it.

4. Flexibility

Is your caterer flexible? Does he/she listen to your ideas and concerns. Will the caterer serve special food for guests with dietary restrictions such as vegetarians, and people with food allergies. Would the caterer be willing to cook a special family dish?

5. Personality & Style

Do you feel comfortable with the caterer. Do you have similar tastes? Beware of the know-it-all caterer who tries to talk you into something you do not want.

6. Food

Be careful! The caterer will try to sell you the most expensive meal plans. Ask how much each plate will cost. How much food each person will receive. Will you serve hors d'oeuvres and what is the cost?

(Money Saving Tip: Tray pass hors d'oeuvres during cocktail hour and serve a lighter meal.)

Don't forget to ask about your wedding cake. Will they make one for you or do you need to bring your own. If the caterer is making the cake, do not assume they know how. Ask if they have any sample cakes you can see. Also you should show the caterer pictures of any cakes you like.

7. Taste Testing the Food

Most caterers will allow you to sample the planned dishes. This is very important as you do not want any surprises at your reception. Also, with any luck you may be able to taste a sample of your wedding cake.

8. Servers

Does the caterer provide waiter and waitresses. You will need approximately one server for every ten guests. Also you should ask what kind of clothes the waitstaff wears. Are you allowed to make wardrobe requests?

9. Decorations

When seeking a caterer you also want to know what types of decorations are offered - tableskirts, linens, centerpieces etc.

10. Place Settings

What does the place setting consist of. A good caterer will gladly show you what the plates, glasses and silverware will look like.

11. Bar

What about beverages. How will you be charged? By consumption or by how many bottles are opened. Exactly what are the charges per bottle. And what are the brands to be served. How many bottles will be served? Will you be refunded money for any unopened bottles?

Money Saving Tips: To reduce your bar tab only serve, beer, wine and soft drinks. You may also consider offering your guests an open bar for the first hour or two and then making them pay for their own drinks.

12. Little extra fees

Be careful of all the little extra fees the caterer will throw at you.

  • Servers, waiters & hostess fees (plus gratuities)
  • Tableware/Linen Fees
  • Bartender & Bar Fees & (plus gratuities)
  • Overtime fees
  • Cancellation fees ~ Make sure you have the cancellation policy in writing!
  • Extra food fees
  • Policy on champagne. Are there any pouring fees?
  • Cutting Cake fees
To make sure you are not charged for any hidden fees Read your caterer's contract very carefully before signing it. Make sure that all the items mentioned above are clearly stated. If they are not listed, have them written in before signing. Also discuss a payment schedule with your caterer. Never pay for everything in advance. With a little preparation, you can stick to your budget and have the party of your dreams!

Jasmine Macdonald is a wedding website designer. You can visit her at http://merrybrides.wordpress.com or read her wedding blog at http://funweddings.blogspot.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=JasmineMacdonald
http://EzineArticles.com/?Choosing-a-Caterer-for-Your-Wedding-Reception&id=261606

Monday, October 13, 2008

Winter Wedding Favor Ideas and Inspirations

Winter Wedding Favor Ideas and Inspirations
By Erica Tevis

The twinkle of the sun reflects off the newly fallen snow giving it an appearance of dazzling diamonds and the icicles form elegant ice sculptures off of every tree branch against a crisp blue winter sky. Does this picture embrace your magnificent dreams of a perfect winter wonderland wedding? If so, you are not alone. Many brides dream of a beautiful winter wedding, whether it be a Christmas themed event, dancing on New Year’s Eve, a romantic Valentine’s wedding, or a ski inspired resort getaway wedding - winter weddings are a magical event.

If you choose to get married in the colder months, you may want to incorporate the season into your wedding favors and decorations. Wedding suppliers have caught onto this idea and have brought this season a sprout of new winter wedding favors sure to inspire and delight you.

Some of our favorite ideas for winter wedding favors are:

Snow Globe Wedding Favors

Although somewhat difficult to find on traditional wedding favor web sites, there are a variety of stores both online and in your neighborhood which carry seasonal products. Snow globes traditionally remind people of the cold months, and what better way to remind your guests of your winter wedding. Available in a multitude of themes and inner designs, you are sure to find a globe that fits your wedding perfectly.

Hot Drink Winter Wedding Favors

What is more perfect than cuddling up by the fireside with your fingers wrapped around a hot cup to warm you? Hot chocolate especially reminds those of winter, and with designers conjuring up various gift designs of this favorite drink, you can find the perfect drink in the perfectly complimented winter packaging. If you’re not sold on hot cocoa wedding favors, many of the same designs are available in coffee wedding favors, cappuccino wedding favors, tea wedding favors, and cocktail inspired winter wedding favor designs (which are perfect for those New Year’s Eve weddings!)

Snowflake Inspired Winter Wedding Favors

What’s winter without snow? Just like each snowflake is different and unique – so is your wedding! Make your winter wedding favors stand out with snowflake inspired designs in items such as:

  • Snowflake Coasters
  • Snowflake Bottle Stoppers
  • Snowflake Candies, Chocolates
  • Snowflake Soaps
  • Place Card Holders
  • Candles
  • Mini Boxes
Plants and Pine Cone Wedding Favors If you’re planning a Christmas themed wedding, then there are several Christmas plants that are beautiful gifts. Poinsettias, Christmas lilies, mini evergreens or holly are lovely long lasting gifts.

Also consider:

  • Christmas Ornaments
  • Pine Cone Sachets
  • Pine Cone Boxes
  • Christmas Tree Soaps
  • Cookie Cutters
  • Cookies in decorative tins
Star Themed Favors Your love is in the stars! Star themed items are extremely popular during this season. Although, not as seasonal as snowflakes or Christmas items, these lend a certain grace and elegance to the season. Some perfect ideas for star inspired winter wedding favors are:

  • Star Bottle Stoppers
  • Star Place Card Holders
  • Star Place Candles
Valentine’s Day Inspired Wedding Favors Although Valentine’s Day is a winter holiday, many people think of warm memories in red, pinks and white. Heart shaped items are popular sellers for these events and as favors. To add a wintry touch to these favors select something with crisp and cool undertones such as silver or crystal. Some of our favorites are:

  • Heart Shaped Bookmarks
  • Heart Shaped Wine Stoppers
  • Heart Shaped Luggage Tags
  • Heart Tins with Chocolates
  • Pink Sweetheart Bath Confetti
  • Heart Shaped Key chains
  • Crystal Heart Perfume Bottles
  • Love Cookie Cutters
  • Love Coasters / Heart Shaped Coasters
We hope your winter wedding is as magical and beautiful as you wish it to be. With so many beautiful winter wedding favors on the market today, you may find it difficult to pick your favorite!

Erica Tevis is the owner of Little Things Wedding Favors which carries thousands of wedding favors and wedding accessories to suit every couple's style, theme and budget.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=EricaTevis
http://EzineArticles.com/?Winter-Wedding-Favor-Ideas-and-Inspirations&id=383129

Friday, October 10, 2008

How To Manage Your Wedding Budget

How To Manage Your Wedding Budget
By Lesley-Ann Graham

You are almost there. Your special day is coming up and of course you need to do a little accounting. Otherwise you end up asking, where did all the money go?

Generally, no matter what country you live in, the biggest expense is the reception. It normally accounts for about 48% of your total expenses. Let's face it you are feeding a lot of people. The event is being catered by a chef and you are also paying for the cost of the people serving behind the bar and waiting on the tables. Not to mention that you're having a multi-course meal. This can really raise the costs.

The next in rank is the cost of your photos and video. A really good, professional photographer is expensive. They are well paid because of their skill. After all they are trying to capture a once in a lifetime event in a way that looks alive long after your nuptials are over.

Then comes the cost of your gown. It is usually a dress that you will only wear once but it is made from costly materials and is usually, at some point handcrafted. It usually comes up to about 10% of the total expense for your wedding.

The flowers and decor takes about 8% of the bill as does the music and entertainment. The skills of the artisans behind these wedding necessities are invaluable.

The remainder of your bill is split between the cost of your wedding rings, transportation, the invitations and the actual ceremony in varying amounts. Let's not forget the taxes you may have had to pay as well as your bride and groom gifts. This accounts for about 19% of the bill.

The funny thing is, no matter what the size of your budget, you will normally find that these figures are close.

Lesley-Ann Graham runs WeddingTrix.com - a valuable wedding planning resource with articles, tips and advice to help you plan your perfect wedding. Visit Lesley-Ann's wedding blog for more free wedding planning help and advice.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lesley-AnnGraham
http://EzineArticles.com/?How-To-Manage-Your-Wedding-Budget&id=218667

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

Having Your Wedding at a Marriott Hotel

Having Your Wedding at a Marriott Hotel
By Kathleen Terrana

Marriott International has nearly 2,800 lodging properties in the United States and specialize in everything from wedding planning, caterers, ceremonies, receptions and honeymoon suites. They offer an online budgeting checklist that covers site selection, staff, invitations, decorations, flowers and food and beverage costs. They also offer a site selection checklist to insure you have information regarding proximity to airport, adequate airport assistance, availability of local attractions, shopping, recreation, restaurants and sufficient parking space.

Their wedding event planners provide complimentary services, handling all of the event details. They offer indoor and outdoor ceremony venues, as well as specialty linens, chair covers, place cards, cake boxes and guest books. Your reception may include a formal sit-down dinner, champagne brunch, or bountiful lunch buffet. Menu tastings are provided by request. The many services offered to make receptions special are great wine selections, distinctive menus, unique ice carvings, beautiful floral displays and dramatic lighting.

The chefs at Marriott may also prepare a rehearsal dinner for family and the wedding party. They will negotiate rates for the bridal party and reserve rooms for out of town guests. At your request, they will even present your guests with a thoughtful gift upon arrival.

After the wedding, begin your honeymoon at a gorgeous honeymoon suite, with champagne, chocolate covered strawberries and breakfast in bed.

By planning an event with Marriott, you may earn Marriott Rewards points. You may earn 50,000 Marriott Rewards points or 15,000 airline miles. Check www.marriott.com for details. Marriott also offers discounts for AAA members, all federal, state, county and local government employees, and all active military personnel.

Kathleen Terrana is the previous owner of Elegant Rentals and current owner of Beautiful Bridal.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=KathleenTerrana
http://EzineArticles.com/?Having-Your-Wedding-at-a-Marriott-Hotel&id=266899

Monday, October 6, 2008

Winter Wedding Ideas

Winter Wedding Ideas
By Dennis Estrada

The winter wedding is magical wedding that coincides on the snowy winter, festive, and holiday months. The winter months start from late November to early March. The snow flakes float romantically in the air and come down slowly to the ground. In a few hours, the snow blankets all around to create and prepare for fabulous wedding setting.

The snow glistens and sparkles to your eyes as if the snow calls you to play. If you look real close, the white turns bluish in color. On a clear silent night, the stars flicker and shine heavenly. Thus, the winter wedding colors include white, light blue, and silver. Since the mistle toe is a green and red, the green and red color also fits the winter wedding. Think of ice, snow, snowflakes, ornaments, lanterns, fireplaces, ice sculptures, ginger breads, holiday decorations, and holiday treats as a winter wedding theme.

The white flowers works best for winter wedding like roses, calla lilies, carnations, gardenias, and magnolias. Although the mistle toes are green and red, mistle toes can be use as we use mistle toes for holiday decorations.

The Victorian church, winter village, large log cabin, historic mansion, and nostalgic castle provide an elegant and fabulous wedding venue. Ski resorts usually reside on a winter village. The winter village gives an unforgettable feel and character for wedding photos. A good example is Whistler, BC in Canada. A castle will do well for a venue too. For a new country, a castle-like or brick-like hotel or inn is a good alternative. The Banff Springs Hotel which is a castle-like hotel located at Banff, BC, Canada fits perfectly to the description. The large log cabin can make you feel at home as well. Also, any Victorian Church and Historic Mansion will etch the lasting memory in your heart. The wedding will be remembered forever. Lastly, you can dress up the pine trees with holiday ornaments and lights. The wedding photos will capture the festiveness of the holiday. It is like a wedding in holiday tree festival.

In cold winter weather, the white coats, furs, scarves, gloves, and capes handle the chilly and snowy weather. The snowflakes look magical in wedding photos too. Suddenly, the wedding is in winter wonderland. To add sparkles in your wedding attire, you can add diamond or pearl earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. The bridal jewelry complements the already stunning wedding dress. For the bridesmaids, and maids of honor, the Swarovski Crystal or Cubic Zirconia Jewelry work as excellent wedding favors. It is a great treat for playing the vital wedding roles. You can also dress up the bridesmaids, and maids of honor with fluffy angel feather wings to create a team of angels in the wedding.

The fireplaces and candles add a never-ending charm. We like to cozy and warm up around fireplaces during the winter season. Several red, green, and silver votive on the fireplace release the romantic mood of the holiday and wedding. On a centerpiece, several ice sculptures bring the magic of winter season in the reception dinner. A snowman, ice globe, castle, and snow flake ice sculpture are a few of the choices. Or, the village of ginger bread houses works like a charm too. To add more holiday flavor, you can add holiday garlands, and flickering lights.

The wedding cake can sit on white tulle, cotton, and blanket to simulate a wedding cake on a snowy hill. The baker can decorate the wedding with ginger bread man, and miniature winter village.

The menu of the winter season is ham, and turkey. For dessert, you have a choice of roasted chestnut, chocolate fondue, ginger breads, candy cane, marshmallows, and mint candy. For beverage, you have hot chocolate, hot cider, eggnog, and sparkling wine. Hot chocolate can be spiced up with a hint of candy cane, whereas the hot cider can be spiced up with a stick of cinnamon.

The wedding favors of the season are holiday ornaments, snowflake-shape soap, scented pine cones, snowstorm globe, candle votives, ornament candle, holiday tree soap, holiday stockings, and ginger breads.

During the winter holiday, many come home to celebrate the holiday with our relatives. So, they are more likely to come celebrate the wedding with you. Best of all, most establishments decorates for the holiday festivities. So, you save money on decorations. A winter wedding also captures the magic of the winter and holiday season.

Dennis Estrada owns Fall Wedding Ideas, Wedding Toasts For Reception Dinner, and Wedding Bubbles And Wedding Tosses website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=DennisEstrada
http://EzineArticles.com/?Winter-Wedding-Ideas&id=461044

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Sending Out Your Wedding Invitations

Sending Out Your Wedding Invitations
By Mia LeCron

It really doesnt matter if you are planning to have a large or a small wedding; you still have to send out invitations. For larger wedding parties, you should buy your invitations at bulk party stores, or wedding warehouses in order to get the best buy for your money. Of course, you can always choose to make your own invitations which is also nice and unique.

Common homemade invitations are often made up of tissue paper over white regular paper, and decorated colored paper. When it comes to wedding invitations, some people even use calligraphy to hand craft their invitations and it adds a nice elegant touch to your invitations.

When you make your invitations by hand, you can address each one individually so that you can add unique invitations to your guests that are addressed specifically to them.

When you hand make your invitations, there are no limits to what you can do to them or what add-ons that you can use. The most popular additions to hand made invitations are:

Photos of the happy couple

Artful calligraphy accents

Paper flowers

Poems, verse and prose

Rhinestones and/or sequins

Gold or silver model car paint for accents

Not everyone has the know how to create hand made specialty invitations, and if you would prefer to buy yours, you can easily find good bargains on them if you go to a wedding warehouse or a party warehouse.

Most places offer discounts when you buy items in bulk and this is great if you are planning to have a larger wedding of 50 or more guests. Invitations do not have to break your bank account, but they do have to be there.

You can also save money on invitations if you personally deliver as many of them as possible rather than sending them through the mail.

You can also hand certain invitations to friends and family members to pass along for you to those who they see more often than you do.

You can also post your wedding date and guest list on your family website if you have one or in the newspaper and only send invitations to those who do not have access to the internet.

Mia LaCron is the founder of Cut-Wedding-Costs.info - http://www.cut-wedding-costs.info - devoted to helping individuals live out the wedding of their dreams on a realistic budget they can afford.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=MiaLeCron
http://EzineArticles.com/?Sending-Out-Your-Wedding-Invitations&id=36720

Monday, September 29, 2008

Seasonal Theme Weddings

Seasonal Theme Weddings
By Jane Martin

One way to make your wedding more memorable could be to have a theme wedding.

Taking the decision to have a theme wedding is the easier part. Deciding on the theme is harder. You could decide on a 17th century theme or a dream wedding theme, but while considering these themes, it is important to consider certain factors liIf you are looking for a fresh look theme, look at your wedding date. Every season has its own charm and you could have a seasonal theme for your wedding that would incorporate all the glory, colours and beauty of the nature around ke cost, availability personnel etc.

you. It could be memorable and unique in its own way.

Many people like to get married in late winter or early spring when nature is at its best.

In spring everything looks fresh and new after the winters sleepy hibernation. In spring gardens and parks are in full bloom and the colours of nature are in full swing. Shades of pastel adorn the landscape with myriad shades and romance blossoms with a new haste and height. Having a spring season theme for your marriage would evoke the same feelings in your guests albeit to a lesser extent (No-one can compete with nature can they?).

Spring colours for the bridesmaids are pastel shades, each a different colour would create a different look. Tables with snowdrops or daffodils miniature ones of course would give a fresh look. Back it up with tulips adorning the dcor. Fill old fashioned jam jars with fragrant candles for a garden ambience. You could add flavor to the wedding by adding pink champagne to the afternoon tea and organising dance entertainment with Morris dancing for the adults or an Easter Egg hunt for the young.

Another popular season for wedding is the Summer, June, July and August being the most preferred months owing to the warm sunshine and reduced chance of bad weather. The colour patterns of summer are spicier compared to the pastel shades of spring. A summer theme should aim to create a tropical ambience through the use of yellows, bright orange, lime green and hot pink colour themes. You could spice it up by making the bridesmaids wearing clothes of vibrant colours and more so, if they carry an exotic tropical flower different from each other and different from the normal bouquet offerings. Have the wedding breakfast in the garden incorporating barbecued fish and lime. A steel band can set the guests on fire with fun and relaxing aesthetics.

Autumn might bring some challenges to your creativity. Flowers are less abundant and the colours are down to earth with a mix of browns, gold, rust, coppers and reds. Substitute the flowers you carry with dried grass, wheat and berries, mix it up a little. Keep the food simple - soups, home made bread, fruits, cheese and roast meat. Halloween and romantic background music can work wonders with the ambience.

Winter, considered dull by some, can be the most is a magical time for weddings. The dark and cold nights could be converted to a warm ambience by use of candles, twinkling lights. Winter is when family gatherings have a special meaning and signals festive times. White, silver and blue are apt colour for a winter wedding theme. Adorn the bridesmaids with silver and turn the flower girls into little fairies with all the works wands and wings. Tables can be adorned with white feathers and the best sweets and chocolates available, light them with indirect blue lights. Serve white chocolate with the proper adornments to get the best of the winter ambience.

Whatever the season you choose, a little creativity in the theme can go a long way in making your wedding the most memorable ever.

Jane Martin is the founder of http://www.weddingplansecrets.com/ which offer inside secrets from within the wedding industry as well as more advice on Theme Weddings.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=JaneMartin
http://EzineArticles.com/?Seasonal-Theme-Weddings&id=163921

Thursday, September 25, 2008

2006 Wedding Dress Trends

2006 Wedding Dress Trends
By Natalie Aranda

The ever-changing Bridal trends usually underestimate the importance on the Bride's budget that only a discount wedding dress may offer. In 2006, the hottest trend is diamond or rhinestone hair accessories, adopted from celebrities wearing diamond tiaras the year before.

However, for a bride with a limited budget such accessories can only be affordable when they can save a bit of extra money. As for an example, investing in a wholesale wedding dress instead of a designer wedding dress, so the right selection of a hairdo and the hair accessory itself will become the shimmering focus point of the attire.

Another trend widely adopted during 2006 is the use of hot colors for the wedding dress. When it comes to an informal wedding dress, the bride can even mix more than two colors in the attire. When we say hot colors, we are referring a real intensive ones, including deep orange and chocolate brown.

Although, it may be hard to find these colors available in a wholesale wedding dress, hot colors for brides have been used in Oriental marriage traditions for many centuries including red, the color of the imperial wedding gown worn in Hong Kong and Japan. In our Western Culture, the 2006 hot colors are paired with other pastel colors such pink, cream and blue.

Brides who marry near the end of the year may take advantage of getting a discount wedding dress in hot colors, as the proximity of the new trends will be around the corner. New trends also dictate color in unexpected places, incorporating color into their look using colored crinoline underskirt or wearing shoes with details in contrasting colors.

Metallic embroidery and fabrics in a wedding dress are trendy this year adding embellishment even to an informal wedding dress. This shimmering look resembles the trend of Vogue during 2005, so it may be easier to find a good wholesale wedding dress with such characteristics.

The old tradition of bride's monograms placed on everything, from underwear to invitations, is over now. 2006 trends remark the importance of creating wedding logos designed by the couple, generally made of any element other than their initials, names, letters or traditional wedding elements.

The disadvantage of this is that you cannot stick a logo on a wholesale wedding dress, contrary to a monogram, that once embroidered to the fabric; it makes the gown resemble a designer wedding dress.

Wedding dress trends as of 2006 includes donating your wedding dress after the ceremony to help hurricane and earthquake victims from all over the world, so brides can also make a difference with a generous charitable attitude.

Natalie Aranda writes on family and relationship. Brides who marry near the end of the year may take advantage of getting a discount wedding gown in hot colors, as the proximity of the new trends will be around the corner. New trends also dictate color in unexpected places, incorporating color into their look using colored crinoline underskirt or wearing shoes with details in contrasting colors. Another trend widely adopted during 2006 is the use of hot colors for the wedding dress. When it comes to an informal wedding dress, the bride can even mix more than two colors in the attire.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=NatalieAranda
http://EzineArticles.com/?2006-Wedding-Dress-Trends&id=231407

2006 Wedding Color Trends Brides Bring Unique Palettes to the Table Through Improbable Pairings

2006 Wedding Color Trends - Brides Bring Unique Palettes to the Table Through Improbable Pairings
By Alicia Whalen

The 2006 weddings fashion beauty out of the contrast of classic and contemporary. Classic formality is right at home with a casual and friendly ambiance. Traditional flowers such as roses are arranged with modern sensibility.

Wedding dcor is simple and elegant and the Victorian intricacy of lace meets the beachside sheath dress. Wedding colors are no exception. From the cake to the candles, brides are finding ways to incorporate the past with the present.

The most noticeable 2006 wedding candle color trend is surely the pairing of traditional pastels with dramatic modern chocolates. Pastel pinks and blues, in particular, have made their return in the company of deep brownsbringing brides the ability to be both ethereal and earthy at the same time. Even the more recent favorites, sage and celery, take on a new hue when incorporated with dark chocolate.

Monochromatic themes have made a strong showing. Classic white and ivory boast a contemporary flair when blended in dresses, flowers, candles, and cakes. For fall weddings, three unlikely companions such as brick red, ruby red, and orange make a bold statement when blended together throughout the dcor, while a subtler spring effect may be had by combining lighter colors such as violet, lavender, and lilac.

While these distinctive combinations may be wooing many of this years brides, seasonally inspired colors will never go out of fashion. Rich fall pairings such as orange and chocolate give an October affair a cozy flair; winter events will always be lovely in icy blue and white; and spring and summer love the lighter hues like lilac and yellow.

No matter the trends, brides should always remember to choose colors they are comfortable with and that they will enjoy not only on this very special day but in the memories and photographs that will live on long after the knot has been tied.

Brilliant Ideas Brought to you by Candlesjustonline.com

About: Candlesjustonline.com : CandlesJustOnline.com has been producing high-quality candles free of lead wicks and harmful dyes for over 25 years. A leader in the candle industry with several brands including Yummi and Just Candles, CandlesJustOnline.com has found its success in reliability, longevity, and the ability to produce candles quickly, in large quantities and at competitive prices.

Taking advantage of the online ability to provide products directly to the consumer. Shop for Candles Online with Candlesjustonline.com - an easy to use site with candle idea's for home dcor, weddings and other special occasions.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=AliciaWhalen
http://EzineArticles.com/?2006-Wedding-Color-Trends---Brides-Bring-Unique-Palettes-to-the-Table-Through-Improbable-Pairings&id=260741

Monday, September 22, 2008

Planning a Wedding

Planning a Wedding
By David Harvey

Planning a formal wedding takes weeks, if not months, of careful preparation. And it needs to be managed with as much care as a general planning a battle.

As the generals assets are his troops and supplies, a wedding planners assets are the money she is allowed in the budget, and the other professionals she can afford to hire to work for her and for the wedding couple. Its all got to be completed in the time available, even when things go wrong.

There are the hairdos and clothing for the bride and bridesmaids, and for the groom and the groomsmen. There is the church minister or other wedding celebrant to be booked and paid for. The wedding reception venue to be picked and reserved, caterers and menus arranged. And there are the wedding invitations and wedding flowers as well.

Dont forget the disc jockey or musicians who will provide the music for your wedding guests, and then theres the professional wedding photographer to be chosen and possibly an official wedding videographer.

Friends and relatives will have their own still cameras and camcorders, to be sure, but you need to use them as a backup in case the official photographer fouls up. Its rare, but it can happen, even to a Pro. So always try to have a Plan B you can fall back on.

Hire cars or limosines white wedding doves the list goes on and on. Just as the cost can go up and up.

People in some countries and cultures go deep into debt to have a big wedding, but you need not be so extravagant, thank goodness.

At the very least you will need to read a good book on the subject of Wedding Planning, or you can hire a professional wedding planner to do it all for you. But be sure to do a little research at least before you decide which way its going to be.

David Harvey has worked as a wedding photographer, among other things, so he's attended many weddings and dealt with many wedding professionals. Now he writes for websites, including this one about Wedding Planning.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=DavidHarvey
http://EzineArticles.com/?Planning-a-Wedding&id=135080

Sunday, September 21, 2008

15 Tips For a Better Wedding

15 Tips For a Better Wedding
By Jacqueline Wild

Tip 1: Make sure you weigh a single invitation before applying postage. Invitations can sometimes sneak over the minimum postage and be returned rubber stamped.

Tip 2: If you are ordering unprinted invitations, order 25 extra - it is cheaper to order a few more now that a single batch later on. Order extra envelopes as well to allow for mistakes.

Tip 3: It can be a nice idea to celebrate your first anniversary with a piece of your wedding cake. Wrap the top layer in plastic wrap, and then aluminium foil. Don't just use aluminium foil, as it can leave the cake with a metallic taste. To keep a good flavour, store the cake in the back of the freezer where the temperature is constant.

Tip 4: If you are doing your own makeup, don't accidentally leave your makeup kit in your car overnight. If it's a hot day it will melt!!!

Tip 5: It might be your last night of 'freedom', but don't blow your big day by drinking heavily the night before. Arrange a celebration at least 48 hours before your wedding day.

Tip 6: If the bride or groom is nervous about making a speech, just remember that on this particular day, the guests will indulge whatever you have to say - so just have fun.

Tip 7: Try and seat your older guests away from the speakers. They will typically want to socialize with family and friends, and be away from the centre of the buzz.

Tip 8: Most couples submit a list of song requests to the DJ. Consider also submitting a list of songs that you would prefer the DJ not play.

Tip 9: Every bride tries on her dress before the big day. However, the men often feel that a tux is just a tux, and don their outfit the morning of the big day - sometimes to find a surprise lurking. Two left shoes, enormous slacks, etc. Politely insist that the groomsmen try their outfits on just once the day that the outfit arrives. It can save a great deal of trouble later on.

Tip 10: If sending out directions to the wedding, do a quick test run of the last five miles of approach to make sure that the directions tie up with the roads. Give as much detail as possible, naming any structures that your guests may pass ('turn right at the Old Crow pub' is better than 'take the third road on the right'.

Tip 11: Before the service, ban anything that can stain, like wine, fruit juice or dark lipstick from any room in which you may be wearing your dress.

Tip 12: Wedding costs can start to run away with you. It is important to keep track of how much you are spending. Consider ordering a separate credit card to make your wedding purchases.

Tip 13: When addressing your invitations try and avoid writing 'and guest' wherever possible. If you are unsure of partner's names, make a quick phone call to find out. They will be touched that you want to know.

Tip 14: It is easy to be caught out by hidden charges at your reception. Make sure you ask your caterer if there are any other charges that haven't been discussed, such as corkage, serving fees, or napkin fees.

Tip 15: On her wedding day, every bride wants to feel that she is the only bride in the world. When making enquiries with reception venues, ask whether the venue host more than a single wedding concurrently. When a venue hosts more than one wedding at a time, mix ups can happen, including gifts going astray and guests drifting from one reception to the other (a concern if you are having an open bar).

Jacqueline Wild is part of a team that has designed the award winning wedding planning software product 'Perfect Day'. Learn more about the software here: http://www.perfectdayonline.co.uk

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=JacquelineWild
http://EzineArticles.com/?15-Tips-For-a-Better-Wedding&id=241280

Thursday, September 18, 2008

Perfect Wedding Lingerie for the Perfect Bride

Perfect Wedding Lingerie for the Perfect Bride
By Megan Mathews

Think of all the planning it takes to prepare for your dream wedding. From the guest list, to the caterer, the flowers, the perfect gown of course, and every other detail you can fathom. Its no surprise that you may just forget to pick up a little something to slip on while you celebrate you and your husbands marriage and love during that first night on your honeymoon.

The wedding lingerie that you choose to wear on the first night as husband and wife should be something that, like your wedding dress, will leave an ever-lasting, pleasurable image in the mind of your one true love. Since men thrive on visual images, choosing the right lingerie for your wedding night that will flatter your every curve and amplify your best features is essential in creating the mental and physical picture youre looking for. Not only will your new husband be taken aback by your beauty, hell be astonished at how assertive you can be when you feel like a goddess, with a sexiness that the right wedding lingerie can expose.

So, you ask, where do you get this bridal lingerie that will take his breath away? You already have done enough shopping and planning to last you a lifetime, so heres the good news. You can make shopping for the perfect wedding lingerie fun and exciting in the privacy of your own home. There are so many online retailers that offer a plethora of choices when it comes to choosing bridal lingerie. And not only can you buy lingerie for the most important night of your life, you can also look for the right bridal underwear to wear under the gown youll walk down the aisle in.

It doesnt matter how what type of lingerie you feel the most comfortable in, as you will be sure to find just what youre looking for when searching the online lingerie stores. Wedding corsets, bridal garters, its up to you to choose the wedding lingerie of your dreams.

Your wedding signifies the beginning to a lifelong journey between you and your partner. Your wedding night and honeymoon is the one of the first steps in this journey, so being prepared right down to the wedding lingerie you want your husband to see you in on the first the night of your marriage is a step that you dont want to miss. You will already have made the perfect bride, and with right the bridal lingerie, you can also help make yourself into the perfect lover as well. Astonish him with your beauty and your air of sexy confidence. You deserve to give yourself the perfect wedding gift; the gift of sensuous, beautiful wedding lingerie.

Wedding Lingerie

Bedtime Flirt

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=MeganMathews
http://EzineArticles.com/?Perfect-Wedding-Lingerie-for-the-Perfect-Bride&id=419567

A Guide to Free Wedding Planning

A Guide to Free Wedding Planning
By Reb Whit

If you have seen the cutsie film with Jennifer Lopez, then you may have an idea of what a wedding planner does and what a valuable service they can provide. Provided they dont run off with your fianc as in the cutsie film. However, one ting the film neglected to mention was how much this precision wedding planning can cost. Generally, as the cost of your wedding rises then generally, so does the cost of your planner. In this article we will give you some free wedding planning advice and give you some advice on planning some of the various aspects of your wedding.

While searching out sources for this article, I came across a wonderful site on the internet called wedding channel.com. For those 99 percent of us who cannot afford the top notch wedding planners as depicted by Jennifer Lopez in the cutsie film, this site can be a godsend. This site contains a plethora of information on everything from wedding budgets to how to avoid various rip off scams associated with weddings. The site also contains a wedding shop in which you can buy several items online.

One of the most interesting parts on the site is the articles. It contains, fact filled articles on just about every aspect of a wedding you can think of and are a great source for wedding planning. Whether you age debating on the good and bad points of eloping or who should pay or what, chances are this sit will have an article with the information you need.

A wedding planner would be great to organize your big day. However, with the rising costs of weddings and more and more of us becoming responsible for financing our own weddings, the reality of affording one of these wedding planners becomes more and more remote. Free wedding planning does exist if you know where to look for it. The internet is a wonderful resource for ideas and it is available at your fingertips. Wedding channel. Com has tons of free information available, but surf the net and loads of other sites come up. Free wedding planning is out there and very useful especially if you are planning a wedding on a tight budget. All it takes is a bit of ambition and a computer.

You can read this article and more at http://www.weddingplanningcentral.info

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=RebWhit
http://EzineArticles.com/?A-Guide-to-Free-Wedding-Planning&id=261741

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Wedding Planning and Event Planning

Wedding Planning and Event Planning
By Michael Bustamante

Wedding Planning and Event Planning degrees are offered by a variety of schools. Wedding planners are also known as wedding consultants and bridal consultants. Community colleges offer diplomas and associate degrees in applied sciences for wedding and event planners.

Colleges and universities offer bachelor degrees and master degrees in event planning through their business degree programs. Event planning universities and colleges provide students with skills and knowledge in managing staff as well as coordinating and planning events, such as banquets and dances.

The business of event/wedding planning is for those who like working with people, who enjoy planning large gatherings, and who are good at negotiating and networking. The event/wedding planner must be personable, a good listener, and a good delegate for their clients. They are the spokesperson in all facets of planning, including ordering flowers, hiring musicians, hiring photographers, finding a caterers, finding locations, choosing colors, etc., for their clients. Event and wedding planners look for the best services, best prices, and connections that will ensure successful events.

Event and wedding planners must be very organized and must be adept at handling financial arrangements they make for their clients, as well as their own finances. Studies may include English and communication skills, mathematics, management, hospitality, sanitation and safety, computer uses for planning and executing events, foods, marketing and sales, legal issues, travel industry, and more.

Knowledge of customs and traditions of various ethnic groups and various religious practices is essential for event planners. Professional planners should expect to regularly read current materials throughout their careers to keep abreast of the latest styles, colors, and trends for large and small events.

If you are interested in learning more about Event Planning and Wedding Planning Schools, colleges, and universities, please search our site for more in-depth information and resources.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERAL OVERVIEW and may or may not reflect specific practices, courses and/or services associated with ANY ONE particular school(s) that is or is not advertised on SchoolsGalore.com.

Copyright 2006 - All Rights ReservedMichael Bustamante, in association with Media Positive Communications, Inc. for SchoolsGalore.com

Notice to Publishers: Please feel free to use this article in your Ezine or on your Website; however, ALL links must remain intact and active.

M. Bustamante is a staff writer for Media Positive Communications, Inc. in association with SchoolsGalore.com. Find Wedding Planning Schools at SchoolsGalore.com; meeting your needs as your educational resource to locate schools.

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Sunday, September 14, 2008

10 Tips to Make Your Wedding Day in One Piece

10 Tips to Make Your Wedding Day in One Piece
By Alex Daniels

Organization is the key to a happy and blissful wedding ceremony. Family is also very important. The more family is willing to give of their time and create less commotion on what they think should be done, the smoother things will be.

Here are some top suggestions to help you get through your wedding day in one piece:

* Make sure that you have dependable people helping you. Usually the adults in your life are better equipped.

* With all of the preparations up to this day, make sure you have focused on your mate. If you know he or she is truly the one, than everything else really does not matter. You cannot control everything so do not worry about what you cannot change. The weather is the only thing you can do nothing about.

* Make sure the place you are getting married is agreeable to both of you. You do not want to come to that place and your heart is heavy because you do not want to be married here.

* Make sure everyone knows directions to the reception. This should have already been done earlier.

* Be sure that your dress fits and you have help getting dressed. Also make sure that you can go to the bathroom in your gown. The rest room has to accommodate you and your beautiful dress. Usually your mother, sister, or maid of honor has to help you.

* Get all vendor agreements in writing as a contract. Spell out exactly what you want when you make the bookings. Do not wait until your wedding day. Call a week ahead to confirm the agreement.

* For your bridal party, select dependable attendants and give each one a copy of the tentative timeline for the day. Do not have children under three years old to be in the wedding party. If you are unsure of the behavior of the child have one of the attendants walk with the child.

* Make sure your parents know what is going on. Nothing is worse then a groom's mother running around stirring up worry.

* Be sure you can dance in your gown and that your shoes are comfortable. You will be on your feet and you do not want to end your wedding because your feet are in pain.

* Be sure that all your attendants have a ride to the ceremony. Take into consideration the gowns and a limousine is a wonderful consideration if you can.

Have a sense of humor because this will get you in or out of any situation. Personally if you can avoid the alcohol it will avoid a lot of behavior and hopefully any family or friends who do not agree. If you are expected to have beer, wine or alcohol try to control and limit. Remember they are drinking and driving and there is responsibility that has to come with alcoholic beverages. You do not have to have it even though there are those who say you have to. Do what you feel right about. This will eliminate a lot of stress in your wedding day.

Good luck! The best laid plans will always fall apart so just plan the best you can, go with the flow and don't let the bumpy road get to you. You'll get through it!

Alex consults for a gift shop offering cheap wedding favors, classic gifts for her and other wedding stuff.

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Winter Wedding in the Country Horse Drawn Carriage and Sleigh Rides

Winter Wedding in the Country, Horse Drawn Carriage and Sleigh Rides
By Ken Bissonette

To get from church to reception, why not have a horse drawn carriage pull up to the church or chapel? Cover up with blankets on the way to your reception or place where you are having your pictures done. You may also want to consider a sleigh if you're wedding is in the country. Hear the bells as you glide through the snow.

A white limo or car decorated in winter wedding colors is another option to consider. You may want to serve hot drinks as your guests enter the reception site. Serve brandy, Irish Cream, de menthe, Cream de cocoa, coffee with Irish Cream or Baileys, or hot apple cider. They can sit or stand by the crackling fire, as they chat and wait for the Bride and Groom.

For entertainment at your reception, think of different things to do. Guests dressed in long coats and tall hats could skate on a nearby rink or pond, while bride and groom have pictures done, or as a part of the reception. Some ideas for your winter reception meal include serving a butternut squash soup with roast beef and horseradish, roast duck or lamb, baby greens and new potatoes.

Have a flaming fig pudding and your wedding cake for dessert. Decorate your wedding cake with icicles and small silver bells, or green ivy and small red berries or roses. At the end of the evening give your guests wedding favors. Give tiny snow globes with a winter theme inside, spiced teas, gingerbread, potpourri, candles, and others.

Complete your winter wedding with a winter honeymoon. Ski in Aspen or the Canadian Rockies. Visit Austria or Switzerland for a true winter holiday.

Ken and Deidre Bissonette are successful authors and publishers of Wedding Information for the Bride and Groom http://www.weddingdresses-gifts-flowers.com

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Friday, September 12, 2008

WorryFree Flowers For Destination Weddings

Worry-Free Flowers For Destination Weddings
By Andree Lapare

Imagine your wedding taking place on a beautiful beach in Hawaii, or at a ski lodge in Whistler Imagine yourself feeling happy, and glad youve made the decision to fly away to this perfect spot. If you are reading this article, chances are that you ARE planning a destination dream wedding, and that you soon realized that having such a wedding requires even more planning than if you stayed home. It's a worthwhile decision to make, but it requires extra planning and smart thinking to make it less stressful, with few last minute surprises.

Planning is stressful. Making sure that you will have the right bouquet waiting for you can be one source of stress. You dont know if the florist will have all the right flowers on hand to create the arrangement that you had ordered. What if the flowers start wilting half-way through your wedding ceremony because they werent fresh or refrigerated properly? If your wedding is taking place at an out-of-the-way location, getting specific flowers may be very hard to guarantee; unless you were referred to that florist by a happy bride, you really are placing your trust on someone you havent met. Seeing your bouquet on the morning of your wedding could be a disappointment.

Many destination brides are choosing to bring along their bouquets in their luggage.

Thats right! Because of an enormous improvement in high-end, premium silk flowers, they knew that their bouquets would look wonderful, and be perfectly botanically-correct. These bouquets are easy to pack, and still look great when unpacked. By choosing a great designer who works only with top-quality flowers, these women get the bouquet of their dreams, months in advance. One thing less to worry about now, and on their wedding day. Another advantage is that they can use them again for the reception when they get back home.

Its important to choose a designer that will work with you, customizing your arrangements as per your request, to help ensure your wedding will be picture-perfect, and a little bit less stressful. A good designer will work hard to ensure you get what you want, and will guarantee their work.

Andre Lapar is the owner and designer at Mulberry Design, http://www.mulberrydesign.ca, a small rural floral design company in Nova Scotia specializing in sophisticated, premium silk wedding bouquets and arrangements that make brides shine.

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Thursday, September 11, 2008

10 Tips to Hiring a Wedding Planner

10 Tips to Hiring a Wedding Planner
By Faith Walker

If you are in the market to hire a wedding consultant, here are ten helpful tips that can guide you through the process of obtaining a profesisonal wedding consultant.

  • 1.Find out exactly what a wedding planner does do your homework.
  • 2.Find the names of the reputable wedding planners in your area.
  • 3.Make a list of things you would like the wedding planner to do. If you want to plan the entire wedding, but you want the planner to direct the ceremony and reception, then you should utilize the service of a wedding planner for Day of services only.
  • 4.Make sure your budget is relative to the type of service you would like. Most wedding planners are willing to work with you for an allotted amount of time if you are unable to purchase a package. Check with him/her to find out if they charge and hourly rate.
  • 5.Find out if your church requires you use their wedding coordinator. Many churches now require that for the protection of the churches property, that brides must use their wedding coordinator. This doesnt mean that coordinator will work at your reception; it means you may have to hire another consultant to do your reception.
  • 6.Check with several bridal associations and see what their members must do to become certified. Find out what classes if any your wedding consultants have taken to become certified or how many years of experience they have had in doing weddings. If they arent that experienced, will they provide you with a discounted rate in exchange for a testimonial.
  • 7.Ask for and check references. It is so important that the wedding planner live up to the expectations of the bride. A good testimonial from a bride is crucial to the consultants business. Check references and find out how the wedding consultant was able to handle stressful situations and how well the wedding guests were treated during the event.
  • 8.Skinny down your list and invite at least three wedding planners for face-to-face interviews. Almost all wedding planners offer free initial consultations so take advantage of this meeting and get to know your potential wedding planner.
  • 9.Ask for a face-to-face interview, dont just price shop. Some wedding planners dont like to give quotes over the phone. You are shopping not only for a service, but a personality. It is crucial to give your business to someone who understands what you are looking for in your vision.
  • 10.Check to see if the wedding planner youve selected is affiliated with any Bridal Planning Association. Not only do you want your planner to be well connected, but you also want her to be in good standing and have a great rapport with any professional associations. Some wedding planners have won awards, and it is nice to be able to see this on a professional website as a sample of their work.

For more information, please visit our website at Plan It For Me! Weddings and Events.

Faith Walker is a Professional Wedding Planner in Atlanta Georgia. Her company, Plan It For Me! Weddings and Events features plans corporate events, parties, reunions, and weddings. The company was founded with the idea to provide brides-to-be with a stress-free alternative to planning their weddings. The motto is Plan It for Me! making the fairytale a reality!

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Wednesday, September 10, 2008

10 Tips for Perfect Wedding Pictures

10 Tips for Perfect Wedding Pictures
By Nikole Ramsay

1.Check bridal magazines and websites for a photographer and take the time to meet with them before the day to discuss your requirements. When it comes to choosing your photographer, make sure that you have a good rapport with them - if you feel relaxed and comfortable with that person, it will show through in the photos on the day.

2.Visit the venue with the photographer and choose some locations and places together where you would like to have pictures taken. Your photographer should be happy to do this prior to your wedding day, especially if they haven't photographed a wedding at your chosen venue before.

3.In the lead up to the wedding, collect pictures from bridal magazines that you like and share them with your photographer. Sometimes this can give the photographer a clearer idea of the style you like and how you'd like to look in your pictures.

4.Practise makes perfect so don't be shy about trying a few poses in the mirror! Once you've mastered a few looks you'll feel confident in front of the camera when the day comes.

5.Hire a good make up artist - it makes all the difference on the day as they will know what 'look' works naturally and photographically.

6.Don't be afraid to move around - leap, jump,skip or even dance! Express yourself...sometimes some movement in the shots can add a real feeling of excitement/action to the pictures. Dancing in the middle of a garden may just sum up exactly how free and happy you are feeling!

7.When you are having your photos taken after the ceremony with you new bride/groom, take the time to think about a special moment you had together, like when you got engaged or a beautiful holiday you shared. Real emotion will show through in the pictures.

8.Smile! Smile with your eyes, not just your mouth.

9.Ask the photographer to capture all the little details as well as the people. You spend loads of time choosing colours, flowers, fabrics, papers, table settings etc....It's lovely to have a keep sake of the small detail that made your wedding so stylish!

10.Be yourself, relax and have fun with your family and friends - after all it's your day! Some of the best photos are the ones you don't even know are being taken.

Nikole Ramsay - Wedding and Commercial Photographer based in London, UK

http://www.NikoleRamsay.com

Member of http://www.WomenWorking4Women.co.uk

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Tuesday, September 9, 2008

Writing Wedding Vows Ideas That Will Help You Express What You Truly Feel

Writing Wedding Vows - Ideas That Will Help You Express What You Truly Feel
By Jean Bachcroft

More and more, couples are choosing to write their own wedding vows. Although many people believe that this is the best way to truly express their personal beliefs and feelings, often they are unsure about how to begin and what to include. If you would like to write your own wedding vows, here are some tips for writing vows that pledge the love you truly feel.

Inform your clergyman early

If the ceremony will be religious, let the clergyman know about your plans as soon as possible. If there are guide principles you will need to be aware of as you write your vows, the sooner you know what they are the better. This is also a good way to avoid possible conflicts between the beliefs of your house of worship and your own personal beliefs. If there is some disagreement between the two, you may need to adjust your plans or wording, or perhaps look for another clergyman.

Ask yourselves fundamental questions

Once youve taken that first step, begin by asking yourselves questions. These may include: What does marriage mean to us? Why are we marrying? What promises are most meaningful, and which ones are essential that we keep?

You may want to ask what words like love, honor, respect, faithfulness, forgiveness, honesty, fidelity, friendship, and trust mean to each of you. This exercise will help you to clarify your thoughts as well as express your true feelings toward each other, your expectations for the future, and your personal visions of your lives together in the future.

Focus on whats unique

An essential element of personalizing your wedding vows is expressing what is unique about the other person. Think about how you see each other and write down as many of the reasons for loving each other as you can verbalize. If your backgrounds are different, acknowledge this and promise to respect and honor your differences as well as your commitment to building bridges that will strengthen common grounds. If this is not a first marriage for one or both of you, you may want to talk about your faith in love and the bond that marriage creates between two people.

Dont get too personal

Keep in mind that exchanging wedding vows is as serious as it is meaningful. Your goal should not be to make your vows sound cute or amusing. Also, avoid suggestive language or phrasing.

And dont confuse personal feelings with private affairs. Topics having to do with money, conception and child-rearing, politics, or in-laws should not be included in wedding vows to be overheard by your guests.

Incorporating traditional pledges

Although much of what you will write will be unique to your relationship and therefore highly personalized, you may want to include meaning parts from traditional vows that are a part of your culture.

While most of the wording is their own, many couples continue to incorporate the familiar love, comfort, honor (though usually leaving out the obey part) wording into their vows.

Rehearse before your wedding day

Since this is a special occasion, you should give it all of the time and attention it deserves. Practice reading aloud what the two of you have written. This is the true test that what appears on paper is what you really intended to say, in the way you intended to say it. Rehearsing will also allow you to determine how long exchanging your vows will take and whether adjustments are needed. If the wording sounds awkward or if it is difficult to read, change it.

Dont rely solely on your memory

A case of nerves can strike unexpectedly, and at the most inopportune time, so make sure your precious words are written down. Once you are satisfied that your wedding vows express exactly what you wanted to say to each other, it is time to finalize your draft. The final copy, preferably two or three, should be printed using a fairly large font size, which will make it easier to read.

It is a good idea to give a copy to the clergyman, at least several days before the ceremony is to take place. If a severe case of nerves does strike, it may be he who will need to read your vows.

Personalize the whole ceremony

Aim to keep the time it takes to exchange your vows between one and three minutes. To extend the feeling of a ceremony that is a celebration of your unique love, have a family member or good friend offer a carefully selected prayer or reading as part of the ceremony. You can also choose music that is both appropriate for the occasion and especially meaningful to the two of you.

About the Author

Jean Bachcroft is a former public relations director, the founder of Bachcroft and Aloha Labels, and the publisher and editor-in-chief of Town and Country Shopping Bargains Magazine. For designer wedding, holiday, and year-round mailing and return address labels, visit Bachcroft Mailing and Return Address Labels and Aloha Return Address Labels.

For bargains and bargain shopping articles, visit Town and Country Shopping Bargains.

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Monday, September 8, 2008

5 Must Know Wedding Pictures Tips

5 Must Know Wedding Pictures Tips
By Kirsten Garrett

As the old adage goes, Pictures are worth a thousand words. This is especially true and applicable to wedding pictures.

Normally, wedding pictures are photographs of the scenes from the wedding. Most of them are focused on the bride and the group.

However, what people do not know is that wedding pictures are not just mere solid representation of what had transpired during the event. Wedding pictures are more of a memorabilia of the wonderful moments that the couple had long been wanting to have.

And with wedding pictures always available for their perusal, it brings them back to the time they have once shared their union as husband and wife in front of the public.

For this reason, choosing the wedding photographer should never be taken for granted. This is because the angles and kinds of shots that must be incorporated therein should only be done by a professional.

Therefore, to have the best wedding pictures, it is best to hire a professional wedding photographer who can handle the shots perfectly.

However, there are some factors to be considered first before hiring the services of a wedding photographer. Here is a list of the factors that you need to know:

1. The style of your wedding

It is important to decide first the style of your wedding. Will it be formal, informal, or semi-formal? Whatever style you have chosen, this will definitely determine the kind of wedding photographer you should choose.

For example, if your wedding will be in a formal setting, it is best to hire wedding photographers that are traditional in styles. This is because traditional photographers consider all the details when it comes to photography and establishing good angle shots.

2. Your budget

Keep in mind that not all wedding photographers are created equal. Hence, it is important to stick to your budget to know which type of wedding photographer you will hire.

Of course, it will do you no good if you will extend or go beyond your budget just because you want to hire the best wedding photographer there is. So, better stick to your budget.

3. Know what you are paying for

Before signing a contract with a wedding photographer, be keen on the details of the agreement and that you should know the items or services that you will be paying for. Other wise, there might be some discrepancies regarding to what has been agreed upon and yet, you can no longer make any claims or complaints against the photographer because you have already affixed your signature.

4. Know your rights as a client

There are instances wherein wedding photographers are so engrossed with their jobs that they no longer take some suggestions from their clients. This should not be the case because the client has still the final discretion. The wedding photographer should only assist the couple on their decisions.

5. The photographer's complete profile

You wouldn't want spoiled films or pictures, right? So, it would be better if you will check on the profile and background of the photographer.

In this sense, it will give you some insight on the capabilities of the photographer and his reputation in the industry.

Boiled down, wedding pictures can be good, bad, or perfect. It all depends on the wedding photographer, so, it is best to hire the best.

For more wedding secrets and tips, Kirsten Garrett has created a useful wedding guide that exposes wedding secrets and more tips located at: http://www.weddingsecretsexposed.com

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The Wedding Cake: A Ceremony by Itself

The Wedding Cake: A Ceremony by Itself
By Joy Cagil

When my son and daughter-in-law held a knife and cut the first slice out of their all traditional, butter-cream frosted, lavish, and very expensive wedding cake, I couldn't help smiling. If we had been in the early Roman times, the wedding cake would not be one huge, tasty, decorative creation, but many small, possibly cupcake-sized, salty wheat cakes. In addition, the guests wouldn't be eating the cakes but throwing them at the bride or crumbling it over her head for fertility and single women would try to catch the crumbs for the same reason they catch the bridal bouquet today.

In the olden times when children didn't make it to adulthood due to childhood illnesses, fertility was important, and that is probably the reason the wedding cake tradition was born. Later on during their empire, Romans turned their salty cakes into sweet cakes. This time, they made a slightly larger bridal cake with many smaller cakes surrounding it. The smaller cakes were brought as gifts by the guests. These cakes everyone ate, but still crumbled some of those over the bride.

After the Roman conquest of the British Isles, Roman customs influenced the natives who baked dry cakes for their weddings and drank their ale with them. In old England and Ireland, there also was, and still is, the custom of a groom's cake, dark in color and made of dried fruit.

When the English sent their pioneers into the new world, they also sent their customs with them. First European settlers in the Americas made fruitcakes for their weddings because their preservation was easier.

The fancy wedding cake with several tiers was created through the initiative of the French, and although scorned by the English at first, it was later adopted and became the norm through all Europe. The wedding cake, owing to its long history, became an individual affair for a modern wedding party, with different shapes and styles and with a rich variety of flavors, fillings, and icings.

A wedding cake, after the vows, has become a vital part of wedding ceremony in our day. It is assumed that a wedding cake reflects the style, elegance, and delicacy of the couple's upbringing, in addition to their enthusiasm for their marriage.

Not only the ingredients and the making of the cake, but the ceremony of its cutting has become another reception by itself. Traditionally, the bride and the groom cut the cake together, with groom placing his right hand over the bride's right hand to cut the first slice. Then, they feed each other that first slice while everyone applauds. Sometimes, the top tier is saved for the first anniversary or the birth of the couple's first child, whichever comes first.

In some new world weddings nowadays, smearing each other with the icing has been taking hold as a custom, adding hilarity to the reception. My favorite wedding cake anecdote is a real one that may have seemed like a disaster at the time; however in hindsight, it has become an amusing joke. Yet, since the marriage has lasted, the incident might have been a good omen.

Several years ago, we attended a large wedding reception. Over the several steep stairs to the main reception hall, the wedding cake had to be carried rather than wheeled. I don't know why nobody thought of a ramp but two waiters, one on each side, took the cake up the steps.

Suddenly, a waiter tripped and the cake fell on the floor, but with luck or heavenly intervention, the top two tiers stayed intact. A pandemonium broke out with the bride's mother fainting and maintenance people scurrying about. Since the reception hall was part of a big hotel, the management came up with their version of a wedding cake. Several small cakes were arranged as the bottom layer with the two top layers of the original cake placed over them.

Judging from that experience, I think it might be a good idea to have a just-in-case second cake. After all, cakes are loved by most anyone and they don't go to waste.

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

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