Interesting Wedding Night Rituals from Around The World

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Weddings are occasions of lasting traditions and rituals. All over the world, people’s beliefs, culture and history has affected this memorable event. It is common knowledge that wedding ceremonies are different all over the world, but did you know that the diversity extends even on the wedding night? Read this to know the interesting activities that couples, families and friends do before letting the newlyweds reach a night of wedding bliss!



It is customary in an American wedding for the bride and groom to hop into a get-away car with tin cans attached to the rear of the car, off to their secret honeymoon, immediately after the wedding. Did you know that this rooted from escaping a Celtic wedding night tradition?

In Gaelic cultures, it was a tradition for friends and family of the couple to mess with the couple’s wedding night. In the olden days, when couples spend their wedding night in a barn, girl friends of the bride would dress her for bed and ask each of the male guests to kiss her good night. The friends would do other things to prevent the groom from seeing her new wife. Even if the couple finally comes together, they would disturb the union by making noise outside the barn and even peep into the couple, while drinking the night away. The couple waits for everyone to get too drunk to eventually leave them alone. This kind of prank is something that newly weds want to get away from, thus, they keep their honeymoon destination a secret and speed away after the wedding.

More Celtic wedding night ritual come from Scotland: sleeping in the barn on the first night, sprinkling water on the marriage bed for luck and staying for a week with the bride's parents before moving into the newlywed’s home.

The Germans and the French do a similar tradition of “disturbing” the wedding night, called Chiverie, known in the US as Shivaree. They make noise outside the place where the couple spends their first night together. Some even play around with the room where they will stay, like put plenty of balloons, spread food all over the bed, and hide alarm clock everywhere, just for fun.

The Romans believed that it was bad fortune when the bride stumbles when entering the newlywed’s house for the first time. Thus, after the wedding, male friends of the couple would carry her over the doorstep. At present, the groom is expected to do the job himself.

In Benin, western Africa, they value virginity. The bride’s mother rewards her with cash if she’s a virgin at their wedding night! In the morning, the sheets that the couples used are inspected for bloodstains. Some mothers even "fly the flag" out the window, showing off their daughter's bloodstained nightgown. Seriously!

For the Chinese, at the night of the wedding, candles designed with a phoenix and a dragon is lit to drive the evil spirit away. The newlyweds will drink wine from goblets tied together with a red ribbon, while arms intertwined. Then the bride will be given half-raw dumplings, which symbolize prosperity.

Marquesasian (from Polynesia) brides have a notable wedding night ritual: they are expected to have sex with all the male guests and then saving the groom for last. Now that can make your wedding night … extremely unforgettable!

How to Select the Proper Wedding Music

So you've exchanged vows, and have said your 'I do's, now it's time to head out to the reception and party like you've never partied before. If you want live music playing in your reception, then you would want to hire a live band. But first, you must check with people that rent the venue where you're going to hold your reception, to see what type of live music they allow. Some venues have stringent restrictions when it comes to live music.

The type of music that you choose to play in your wedding should be an expression of both the bride and groom's personality, personal taste, and the overall theme of the wedding.

It's very important to select the right music, because the music will become a pervading presence all through out the wedding, and right down to the reception. Music creates an atmosphere. It will set the mood of your wedding.

During the wedding itself, the choice of music usually depends on the wedding. Most church ceremonies don't allow secular music. They stick to more traditional, or religious music. A man and a woman duet is usually sung during the ceremony. A church organist usually provides the majority of the music.

For the reception, the bride and groom has a choice of recorded music, or live music. If you opt for recorded music, it would be best to hire the services of a DJ. The best thing about this, is you can request to have all of your favorite songs in the playlist. Ask your friends if they know any good DJs that are willing to play for wedding receptions. If they don't know any, you could always just search the yellow pages, internet, or even contact your local radio station.

Once you've settled on a DJ, have a one-on-one discussion with the DJ. Just to explain what type of entertainment and mood you want to have during the reception. Also discuss, the selection of music that you have in mind. Ask if the DJ's familiar with wedding protocol. If not, you might want to brief the DJ first about the sensibility of the event.

On the other hand, choosing live music offers you a choice of hiring a band, soloist, instrumentalists, jazz group, etc. It all depends on what kind of theme you have in mind for you wedding.

For more formal weddings, classical groups, piano soloists, and instrumentalists are more appropriate. It would not be a bad idea, to also consider the sensibilities of your guests, to ensure that everyone has a good time!

If you want to have a rocking good time for the reception of your wedding, then hiring a band is the way to go! The energy of a live band gets people going. There's nothing else that spells a rocking good time better, than a rock and roll band.

Before hiring a band, ask them if you could listen to their music first. This will help you decide if that particular band is just right for you. Also discuss, if the band will do emcee duties, as well as provide the music.

It's best to hire a band that has had previous experience with wedding receptions. This way, they'd know what to expect, and will be able to provide the proper entertainment that's fitting for the occasion.

You always want to keep the music going, so include some background music even when the meals are being served, or when the bride and groom are doing their rounds of greeting, having their pictures taken, etc. This will also maintenance the atmosphere of the wedding all through out the reception. So choose wisely, because your choice of music can make or break this occasion!

Great tips on Wedding Invitations

One of the most important things whenever somebody wants to get married is to have a complete line-up of the couple’s guests. Along with this preparation is the creation of wedding invitations that should reflect your earnest desire to invite those you want to be present on your very special day.

For so many years now, it has long been a part of the tradition that wedding invitations should be distributed so that the people will know that they are invited. It also makes them feeling special because of the fact that the couple had included them as their guests.

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Today, wedding invitations need not be the usual unfussy cards that our ancestors had long been using. The concept of the modern wedding invitations lies on the premise that they are a part of the wedding and any neglected details of the invitation would reflect how haphazard the wedding plans were made.

So, for people who wish to know some useful tips regarding wedding invitations, here are some of pointers that you may use.

1. Use a reply card with your wedding invitation.


In reality, the main reason of creating and giving out wedding invitations is to approximately determine the number of guests that will attend on your wedding day. Hence, it would be better for if you place a reply card along with the invitation card. In this way, you will get to know the estimated number of guests that you will be expecting.

2. Specify on the wedding invitation what type of occasion you will use.

In most cases, weddings are formal events. However, there are instances wherein the couples prefer informal celebration. So, it is best to specify exactly what type of celebration will be imposed.

Moreover, it is also important to specify the dress code so that the guests will know if they need to comply or not as far as clothing is concerned.

3. For smaller wedding, it is best to have the wedding invitations personalized.

In cases where the wedding celebration entails only quite a few numbers of guests, it would be better to make your own wedding invitation.

Usually, wedding invitations are more expensive and requires the least number of orders. So, if you would not be ordering a lot, then, it would be better to make your own wedding invitation.

4. For a more innovative look, choose the colors you will use with your wedding invitation.

White will always be the color of the wedding and will never go out of style. However, because of the continuous change that technology is bringing us, it is best to try some bright colors that will reflect your personality or your partner.
The key point is not to use one color but a conglomeration of all the bright colors you can use.

5. Choose a design that will best reflect your taste or your partner’s personality.

Before, wedding invitations come in the traditional rectangular adorned with laces and flowers. It has been deemed as good design for so many years now but the fact remains the same: it is dull and lifeless.

What you need to present them is the beauty of life that you and your partner had agreed to cherish forever. Hence, it is strongly recommended to come up with a modern designs embedded with pure beauty.

Boiled down, wedding invitations are not just mere invitations that you usually have in your other occasions like birthday party or victory party. Wedding invitations are ways of inviting somebody whom you want to be a part of your wonderful moment with your partner.

As they say, wedding invitations are not just papers, they are the breath of the couple’s desire to tell the whole world how much they love each other, and they want their guests to witness that.

First Impressions Lasts Choose Your Wedding Invitations Properly

How to choose your wedding invitation:

1. Set a budget and be creative. As well as there are beautiful expanssive invitations, there are also inexpenssive but equally beautiful ones in the market. You just got to be creative and know where to look.
2. Decide on a theme and color motif for your wedding. Your invitation should suggest the theme or the color motif of your wedding.
3. Do your guest list so that you will know how many invitations to order.
4. Select a style that reflects your personality as well as it should give an idea of the wedding that you are planning.
5. Begin as early as eight months before the wedding. This means that you will have plenty of time paying attention to perfect the wording, and should something goes wrong, you will have ample time to revise it and make sure that it is “the way you want it” before sending them out.
6. Before you order your invitations, make sure that all of your wedding details such as the date, time and place of the ceremony and reception are already confirmed.
7. Asking help from professionals on the look and style of your invitation will help you pull your ideas together for a more beautiful outcome.
8. With regards to the proper wording and etiquette, a professional should be consulted to make sure that everything in the invitation is properly placed.
9. Order more invitations than the amount that you really need. This will give you a few extras in case you miss anyone out.
10. When giving the shop your wording, it is best that you give it to them typewritten, so they can clearly read it.
11. Do it with style. Be creative and try to combine materials to achieve your own personal touch.

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Invitation Etiquette

1. When the ceremony and the reception will be held at different locations, you can enclose a reception card along with your invitation. The reception card should also be provided with an envelope and contain specific information about the reception.
2. Do not address envelopes as Mr. and Mrs. William Cooper and Family. This is not proper. The names of children under eighteen years old should be included in the invitation, while children over eighteen should be sent their own invitation.
3. You can use casual names such as “Uncle Henry and Aunt Beth” or “Grandma” to relatives that are close to you, in addressing the inner envelope as this will show how much you mean to them, even if you are planning a formal event.
4. Mail your invitation six to eight weeks before your wedding date. If however, your wedding date is set on a holiday season or you are inviting a lot of guests that are from out of State, you should mail the invitations sooner to give them ample time to plan and make hotel reservations and organize their schedule.
5. Position the word “black tie” in the lower right hand corner of the invitation if you are planning for a formal wedding so that your guests can dress accordingly.

Don’ts when placing invitation wordings:

1. Don’t use nicknames. Always use the first, middle, and last name. Some people do not want their middle names included in the invitation; don’t use initials, simply do not include their middle names.
2. Don’t make abbreviations. Only “Mr.”, “Mrs.”, or “Dr.” can be abbreviated. All other titles should be written completely.
3. Don’t abbreviate dates, addresses and time.
4. Don’t write the word “and” as “&”.

Invitation assembly:

1. Place the invitation inside the large envelope along with its protective tissue and make certain that the invitation is facing you.
2. Place in the reception invitation on top of the invitation, also facing you.
3. Position the response card in, and leaning within the flap of the response envelope, which is facing down.
4. The last to go in are the directions or map which guides the guests.
5. When addressing the outer envelope, it is best that you use calligraphy.
6. For added touch, choose a postage stamp that well compliments the general appearance of your invitation.
7. If possible, bring your invitations to the post office and ask that they be hand cancelled, to avoid unattractive marks or scratches that a machine cancelling can cause.

The Value of Wedding Invitation Wording

Art, in general, is the appreciation of beauty. It implies order and harmony of parts in a given whole.

Human life does not imply merely physical survival. It is a vocation towards the refinement of the spirit. Hence, the demands of daily life include and derive meaning from the cultivation of those traits that truly reflect man’s innate dignity. In this context, ethics is considered an art. However, there are art forms that are different from those that are considered as ethical


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For this reason, certain actions of man must be in proportionate to the ethical standards as dictated by man’s innate dignity. One of which is how we should use words in different functions.

Take fore example the wordings in a wedding invitation. Careful use of words and establishing them correctly is very crucial in wedding invitations. This is because wedding invitation are the first-hand symbol of the wonderful celebration that is about to take place.

Any misused, abused, or unethical choice of words may result to misunderstandings or misinterpretations between and among the guests.

Generally, wedding invitation wording should be clearly established to avoid confusions and misconception. There are instances were words may have several meanings depending on how it is used in a sentence.

Moreover, the wordings must accurately define the details of the wedding like the date, the exact time, and the place where the wedding ceremony will take place. These things should be clearly stated because there are cases wherein most guests directly assume that once they are invited, it means that they are asked to attend to the wedding ceremony and the reception.

However, there are some weddings that the couple would usually invite people just for the reception. In this case, the couple has decided to make the wedding very private and that they only want their immediate relatives present during the ceremony. The guests are asked to attend on the reception already.

Hence, to avoid confusion and delusion, it is best to carefully state in the invitation the purpose of the invitation.

On the other hand, wedding invitation wordings may also vary depending on certain circumstances that the couple has no control of. An example is the concept of who paid for the wedding.

In this instance, it is best to choose words that would pay respect to the party whom the recognition is due but should also be made in conformity with the ethical standards, in which the feelings of the other party should be considered also.

For example, if in case that the bride’s parents are the ones who had paid for the wedding, then, the wordings on the wedding invitation should state that it is the bride’s parent s who are requesting for the presence of the guests.

Alternatively, the setting of the wedding should also be considered when establishing the wedding invitation wording.

If the wedding is informal and will only take place in a home, then it is best to replace the usual words being used in formal invitations to a more casual tone but still with respect.

Boiled down, any kind of wordings will do when making wedding invitations a long as the words are in conformity to the ethical standards set by the society and as patterned on the innate dignity of man.

Best of all, the details of the wedding should be clearly stated, otherwise, the wedding invitation will definitely lose its main purpose.

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Wedding Cost Saving Ideas

Almost every girl has a picture of her ideal wedding in her mind. She may dream up something that she can visualize when reading fairy tales that end with "...and they live happily ever after." She sees flowers, ribbons and laces.

However, when her wedding day comes, she may have other considerations on her mind. She still dreams of her ideal wedding but she starts incorporating other subjects that represent her and her groom. Not to mention that the bride also considers the current trends in wedding fashion and decoration. And the most important subject to talk about when choosing decorations - the cost.

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Nobody wants to spend the first few months of being married paying of debts made during the wedding preparations. Therefore, the groom-to-be and bride-to-be should be very careful what to spend on. Here are a few things to consider.

• Personalize the decorations. Not only does this add a personal touch to the celebration but this also cuts down on the cost. For example, if the bride or the groom is a photographer, they may choose having photos from their collection made the main subjects for the reception design. The photos may also be used for invitations and keepsakes,
• Consider renting. Most of the items that will be used for decorations will not be used again. These include the centerpieces, the vases, the arc ways and the artificial flower arrangements. So ask your wedding decorator for options to rent these pieces.
• Kids can get bored during the wedding reception. So instead of having kids seated at the same table with the adults, you can have an area where kids can be more casual and can have a small party of their own.
• Marriage is a union of families. During the wedding rites, if possible, you may alter some of the practices to include the children of the bride or groom from previous marriage or the parents and families of the couple. Having them perform a special union rite will signify that the wedding is not just a union of two people but also of two families.
• For the food during the reception, you may inquire with cooking or culinary arts schools. They may agree to cater for the reception for just the price of the food, or perhaps, a little more. You may also have a pot luck by asking family members and close friends to cook a dish.
• If you wanted to cut down on the cost for the wedding party, you can just invite more people to the engagement party. Usually, only cocktails and hors d'oeuvres are served, which cost less than the full set of meals for the wedding reception guests.
• For the music, you can look for a local college band or DJ. You can also have your favorite songs just downloaded from the Internet and saved to an mp3 player or CD to be played over the speakers during the reception.
• When considering the cost of church decorations, check if there will be another couple that will get married on the same day. They may want to coordinate what decorations can be used for both wedding ceremonies to lessen the need to change decorations before or after the wedding and to split the cost.

Getting married should not be expensive. After all, the essence of marriage is in the union and not in the celebration. You shouldn't also try too hard to please the guests. Your family and friends are there to rejoice this wonderful event with you and not to criticize your wedding.

7 Steps in Planning the Perfect Wedding Hairstyle

In China, the typical hairstyle of a married woman is tied up in a bun. Such style is done in most Chinese brides in a ritual: a woman who has had a successful family life, is asked to help in dressing up the bride's hair. While setting the bride’s hair up, the “good luck woman” speaks of good fortune for the bride and her upcoming married life.

In the US, preparing the bride’s hairstyle is also becoming a ritual, as it plays an important part in her overall look. Much preparation has to go into the bride’s dress, and so should her crowning glory, the hair. Follow this simple guide on how to plan for the perfect wedding hairstyle.

Weeks before your wedding day choose a hairdresser that will make your do at the wedding. Find a hairdresser that is recommended by someone you know and trust; someone that they had a good experience with.

1. Establish a good rapport with the hairdresser. You should be comfortable in discussing with him or her on the style and look you want. Some hairdressers insist on some do that they dreamed would be made for them. Be firm in telling him or her what you want and don’t want.

2. Discuss in length the shape of your face in relation to the hairstyle that he or she proposes. Try the following styles:

• Up do’s signify elegance and this is what most brides want.
• Tired of the bun? Achieve the same polished look with braids instead. From cornrows to French twists, there are numerous interesting ways to set your hair in place.
• Letting your hair down, especially of the mid-length can emanate romance. Flip the edges out for a little retro look.
• Short hair can be spruced up with color highlights or shiny curls.

3. Ask to schedule a practice session to mock-up the intended hair do for your wedding day. You may  need to pay extra for this mock-up session, but it’s worth the buck to ensure you look lovely during your wedding.

4. Part of the mock-up is for you to carry the hairstyle. Check side and rear views for how the hairstyle looks and make sure it is made to your liking. You are the center of attention on the wedding day, so you should be beautiful 360 degrees!


5. Walk around the salon with your hairstyle. Try to bob your head abit or do other head movements that you think will happen on wedding day. Make sure your hairstyle withstands all the head activity and that you and your scalp will be comfortable for hours.


6. Now, traditionally, they say it is bad luck to try on your wedding dress before the wedding day. But you need to be sure that your hairstyle matches the gown. Don’t worry; you can still approximate the look by using other dresses. Look for a dress that has the same collar style as your wedding dress. Then put on something that approximates the same lines of your wedding gown. View yourself on the mirror, and imagine yourself in white… does the hairstyle match?


7. On the eve of the wedding, get a head massage, on second thought, get a whole body massage! This relaxes your body, opens your pores and freshens up your skin.


Gets yourself ready for your momentous event: plan for your wedding day hairstyle and achieve the perfect wedding day look!

Tips for Choosing Your Wedding Hair Style

Every bride wants to look her best on her wedding day. After all, this will be the most important day of her life. This is where she and her groom will pronounce their vow of love for each before their family, relatives and friends. This is so important that even a very good-looking girl wants to look better, or something different from how she looks every day.

Choosing how you should look during a wedding can be very risky. If you were not advised by a professional, this is not the time to try on new make up and hairstyle trends - unless you wanted to end up as one with the worst wedding fashion.


So, to be on the safe side, it is better to enlist the help of a professional stylist to do your makeup and hairstyle.


Here are some tips to help you on what look you will be having on your wedding day.

Image: Rosen Georgiev / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

•  Choose natural-looking makeup, as you don't want to look heavily painted especially when people come to wish you well. However, you should also make sure that even if you are wearing natural-looking makeup, this still looks well when your picture is taken.
• Get a facial to help eliminate the stress in preparing for the wedding and to cleanse your skin, in preparation for the big day.
• Make sure that you have enough time to prepare your hair. Usually, you may need about six weeks before the wedding to make minor changes to your hair. If you will be changing your hairstyle, hair color, or length, you may need up to six months.
• Make an appointment with a hairdresser recommended by your family and friends, or with your own hairdresser. It is better to bring pictures of the dress, headpiece and the hairstyles that you would like to try. Also, discuss with the hairdresser what will be the appropriate color, texture and the style.
• If you are thinking of having your hair permed or relaxed, ask the hairstylist if he or she thinks this will not damage your hair. Damaged hair will not look good and will be difficult to style. If you wanted to try this, make sure that you still have enough time to experiment and to undo it if it doesn't look good.
• If you are thinking of dyeing your hair, consider if the color will compliment your skin color and the color of your eyes. It is better to ask the help and suggestions of a professional for this. When dyeing, use a temporary dye first.
• Your hairstyle should go well with the cut of your gown. If you have a simple gown, choose an uncomplicated hairstyle. Choose a hairstyle that will be comfortable and will not be difficult to maintain since you will have a lot of things to take care of on the wedding day.
• If you have short hair, you may add highlights to enhance the richness. You may also have hair treatments or try products that will add shine. You can also try a multi-textured look. Flowers also look good on short hair.
• If you have a long hair, it is suggested that you wear your hair up for an elegant look and to minimize the need for maintaining it, since you will be busy the whole day.

Now that you have these tips, you have more information when your hairstylist starts making suggestions on how to make you look great on your wedding day.


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How to Choose the Best Wedding Gown

In order to have a perfect wedding, it is important to have that perfect wedding gown, too. This is because the wedding gown is the showpiece of any wedding event.

The wedding gown is not just a mere dress that is worn by the bride. It is the substantial emblem of purity, love, and happiness that awaits the bride in her future with her groom. That is why finding the right wedding gown is as important as preparing the wedding celebration itself.



Therefore, for people who do not know how to choose the perfect wedding gown, here are some pointers that could help you out.



1. Use all the resources available in choosing ideas and design on your wedding gown.

Image: Rosen Georgiev / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Before, wedding magazines are the only resources where the bride-to-be can get some useful ideas on her wedding gown. However, with the advent of the Internet, she can now browse for more ideas and concepts of wedding gowns online.



There are web sites that will provide you with full details regarding a particular wedding gown, complete with prices, different styles, and fashion sense.



2. Make a budget and strictly conform to it.



Budget will never be absent in any wedding plans. However, the most common problem that arises concerning budgeting is the fact that people do not stick to it.



Hence, if you have a budget for your wedding gown, it would be better to stick to it and not be enticed with all the promotions of whoever will make your wedding gown. Otherwise, you will fall short on the other aspects of your wedding plans.



3. Be sure to have your wedding gown looking good in all angles.



Usually, the most neglected part of the wedding gown is the back. So, when ordering a wedding gown, be sure that you will also look good from behind. Most of the time, the guests will have a look at your back so you definitely have to look good from behind.



4. Be practical with the designs that you want to use.



Like any traditional wedding gowns, large skirts and long gowns are the typical styles of yesteryears. But in today’s modern world, there are cases wherein wedding gowns like these are not at all practical especially if the venue is just small.



Moreover, it can be burdensome for the bride to carry such a heavy dress throughout the wedding celebration. What matters most is to make the bride comfortable to what she is wearing.



5. Take into account the environmental condition of the venue of the wedding.



When choosing a wedding gown, it is best to consider the weather and the venue. This will have a great effect on the kind of material that should be worn by the bride.



For example, if the wedding will take place during summer, then, it is best to choose the materials for the wedding gown that will not make the bride sweat and perspire throughout the celebration.



Indeed, deliberating on the details of the wedding gown can be a daunting task. That is why it is important to provide a hefty amount of time in preparing, designing, and ordering the wedding gown. In this manner, there will be plenty of time for any changes and modifications without the tendency to come up with a rushed work.



More importantly, the bride should always consider her comfort when choosing a wedding gown. Looks and designs will only be put to waste if the bride is not comfortable wearing it.



As the old cliché goes, you are what you wear. Therefore, it would be better to wear a wedding gown that would reflect the happiness and love that is within the bride. In turn, the wedding gown will appear before the audience as the most beautiful centerpiece of the ceremony.

Don't Go Wrong On Your Wedding Gown

Guidelines on how to buy your wedding gown:



1. Set up a budget. Today, buying a wedding gown offers you a great deal of choices. Know your budget, and don’t try out such wedding gowns that are out of your budget as you will only let yourself down as well as adding a lot of pressure to your decision.



2. Decide on what style you want. The internet offers a lot of ideas as to the type of gown that you are envisioning. Take into account the location and the time of the ceremony. Make certain your gown correspond well with your other plans.



3. Start as early as possible. Once the wedding date is set, start on the search for your wedding gown.



4. Find and compare bridal salons.



5. Make appointments. Be sure to set up a meeting with the establishment that you are interested with and discuss with their designer your ideal wedding dress so she too, could have an idea what you are looking for. Listen too, to her suggestions.



6. Have your measurements taken. Don’t do the measurements yourself. Go to your bridal salon and let them take it for you. This will ensure precise measurements that will lead to a perfect fit.



7. Look at swatches. It is important that you know and feel the texture and the actual color of the fabric that will become your wedding gown. Swatches will be helpful in making your decision for a gown much easier.



8. Consider the rear view design of the gown. Your guests will be spending a lot of time looking at your back as the ceremony goes on. When looking through designs, take into account the gown design at the back that it should be as flattering as the front.



9. Bring a friend along. She can give you her honest opinion as to whether the style and design of your choice is perfect or alterations needs to be done; also how the dress looks like at different angles.



10. Consider comfort. You will be wearing the gown for at least eight hours, so it is important that the gown should feel comfortable. When trying it on, bend over, sit down, stand up, walk and dance to make sure that you can move with ease in your wedding gown.



11. Down payment. Usually, a fifty percent down payment is required as soon as you order your gown.



12. Ask for a receipt. Once you have decided on a gown and placed your down payment, then ask for a receipt indicating the amount of your down payment, the full description of the gown, delivery and due date.



13. Relax and enjoy. Allow the people at the bridal salon to pamper you in every way. Enjoy the thrill and theexcitement of shopping for your wedding gown and of the thought that you will soon be marrying the person that you love.



Be cautious of:



1. Anybody who would insist on shipping your wedding gown to you. You have very little remedy or none at all, should anything go wrong. The price that you will be paying for alterations may be more than the discount that was given to you when they sent you the gown.



2. Anybody that is suggesting that you should “do the footwork”. It is best that you shop somewhere else.



3. Anybody who would require a full payment for your gown before it’s done.



It is always safe that you buy or order your wedding gown at the same shop that you selected it. There are many full service bridal stores that will cater to all your needs and your satisfaction is guaranteed. Your wedding gown is very important. Don’t take chances.

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Wedding gift ideas

A wedding is a red letter day for anyone. Just being invited to one can really bring about excitement. It is always a pleasure to see someone walk down the aisle with the promise of true love and life long happiness. Picking out wedding gifts can be a lot of fun too. There are thousands of gifts ideas that you can purchase online or on retail stores. Personalized gifts have been a common trend in weddings presents. Customized gifts bring out your creativity because you can dictate the style, design and message you want to be printed on them. Items range from photo frames, mugs and clocks, among others.



In buying gifts, always keep in mind your budget and be sure to get the look you want to achieve on your purchased items. Here are some gift ideas that would surely be a hit:



Tapestry

It is nice to remember your wedding day, and how else can you do this? Personalize your ordinary belongings by printing the couple’s picture on them. You can have it printed in your pillows, blankets or bags. Print them on tapestry wall hangings and keep them as an heirloom. Colorful cotton threads can make your pictures come to life with its vivid colors similar to the photograph itself.



Photo Frames

Keep your memorable pictures in unique photo frames. You can add on sweet messages like ‘sweethearts forever’ or ‘perfect couple’. Sweet lines from songs or poems are greatly recommended too. You can choose from the different frames available like natural wood, quality plastic, or metal steel. Personal messages are mostly laser engraved or wood cut-outs. The couple would love putting there favorite wedding photos to keep them reminded of the bliss of their special day.



T-shirts

Add your own personality and thoughts and get them printed in comfortable tees. Most couples would love to profess their love for each other in cute shirts. The most common of these shirts are the word ‘I’ that comes with a big red heart and the name of the groom or bride. Tell the world how you feel towards a person with these personalize tees. To add a little intimacy, you can also opt to print sweet messages on under wears and undershirts too.



Accessories

Women love accessories. Bracelets are perfect items to be personalized. You can opt to choose fancy gold, sterling silver or even 10 karat – 25 karat gold. This depends on your budget, of course. But remember, it’s always the thought that counts. Recommended words that you can put on the bracelets are the date of your wedding day, your anniversary or the couple’s name. You can opt to personalize rings and necklaces as well.



Mugs

Mugs are very functional. If giving a present to the groom, customizing his beer mug or wine glass would surely be appreciated. Be sure to choose mugs that exude manly elegance. Black or brown mugs would definitely look nice and the personal message would be a real stand out.



Clocks

You can either choose to purchase a wall clock or personal watch. Either way, you can be assured that the recipient of the gift would find them very useful. Engraving one’s name on a metal steel sports watch is an eye catcher too. A pocket watch would equally be valued.



Looking for wedding gifts can be enjoyable. Personalizing your gifts would add a special touch to each present. No matter what the value of the gift is, remember that it is always the pure intention of giving that matters most.

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How to make wedding flowers

Catch that bouquet of flowers! It is always a thrill lining up in a pool of bachelorettes swarming to catch those bouquets thrown by the bride. Just being one of the audiences can be just as exciting. Tradition says that anyone who catches the bouquet would be the next bride.



Flowers play an integral part in any wedding ceremonies. They have been a symbolism of new hope and a good future ahead. The bride and the groom would surely feel like heaven with flowers blooming everywhere on their reception. More than a decoration, wedding flowers have now been a tradition. A wedding will be quite incomplete without these fragrant gifts of mother earth.



Hiring a wedding coordinator or a florist so that your bouquet will be professionally done can be considered as an option. But if you are on a strict budget, and have some creativity hidden deep inside you, there is no hurt in making them on your own. They can still look elegant and stunning as long as you know what color and kind of flowers to use. The tips below will help you in customizing your wedding flowers.



Choosing flowers

In picking what flowers to choose, keep in mind the theme and the color premise of the wedding. It should match and blend well with the entourage and the bride’s gown too. Another point to consider is the availability of the flower type. Depending on the season, you can order the freshest, the most available and the cheapest kind of flowers. Flowers like baby’s breath, orchids, gardenia and roses are readily obtainable no matter what time of the year.



Preparing the materials

The bouquet that the bride carries on the aisle is where the flowers play a major part. It is very easy to create your own. First, gather up your materials. You will need about three dozens of your chosen flower, a sharp scissor, florist tape, and ribbons.



Making a bouquet

It is advisable to order your flowers on the day of the event and get the freshest pick possible. Start by choosing three roses that you would use as the centerpiece of your arrangement. Puff air into the center of each flower to give it a fuller look. Put them together, creating a triangle. Stack each flower unevenly; each one should have a slightly different level of height. This technique adds dimension to your arrangement. Just continue adding up two to three flowers at a time until they form a dome. After which, you can tie them up with a florist tape at least 8 inches below the flowers.



Be sure to ask some help taping the stem, you might have a difficulty holding all 36 flowers and tying them together at the same time. Finally finish out with a suitable ribbon that matches the color of the flowers and your wedding dress. You can tie them up in a bow. Be sure to cover all the florist tape with ribbons. Carefully cut the excess stems with a sharp scissor approximately an inch below the ribbon. Place the bouquet on a plastic container or a vase with a quarter inch of water or you can store them inside a fridge covered by a loose plastic bag. Finally, spray the flowers with water avoiding the ribbons.



That’s it! That’s how you can customize your bouquet. Remember to check your arrangement in a mirror with you holding it so you would picture how it would look like to someone else’s view. Wedding flowers can still look stunning without sacrificing your budget. Now you are ready to walk down the aisle with that pretty and personalized bouquet of flowers in your hand.

Wedding favors for family and friends

Wedding favors are a great way for couples to show their gratitude to family and friends that graciously attended their wedding day. Wedding favors are small tokens of appreciation that couples can give out to the people that came to celebrate their wedding day with them. Wedding favors come in all shapes and sizes. There are an infinite number of items for wedding favors that couples can choose from.



The couple's budget is a significant factor to consider when selecting wedding favors. However a resourceful and creative couple can easily find a solution to their problem. Couples can also choose to have their wedding favors centered on their wedding theme. Wedding favors can either be store bought or made by the bride herself with the help of her bridal entourage.



History of wedding favors



The history of wedding favors dates back several centuries ago in European countries. People then believed that weddings were a fortunate occasion and that the giving of wedding favors by the groom and bride is a way of sharing that luck to family and friends.



Wedding favors began as a tradition of upper class families in Europe centuries ago. French and Italian families would hand out 'bonbonnieres' to guests as wedding favors. These confectionary delicacies are placed in small fancy boxes made of metal, crystal or porcelain. The boxes are also decorated with precious stones that create a precious keepsake for guests.



Later on, other social classes took on the tradition of giving wedding favors to their guests. Almonds were popular wedding favors given by couples in the earlier days. People believed that the almonds represented longevity, happiness, wealth, health and fertility. Up to now, almonds are still common wedding favors given by couples in the form of candy-coated almonds.



Modern day wedding favors



Wedding favors are now an essential part of the preparations for the wedding day. Couples have limitless choices for wedding favors. Wedding favors can be bought or made to match the style of the couple's wedding. Couples can choose to have either practical or decorative wedding favors to give away to family and friends.



Many sensible couples opt to give out practical wedding favors that guests can use afterwards. These can either be small kitchen gadgets like salt and peppershakers, coasters or cookie cutters. While other couples choose to give out soaps and candles as wedding favors.



Ideas for wedding favors



Ideas for wedding favors can be as wild as the imagination can get. Couples can come up with the wildest wedding favors for their giveaway to family and friends. Wedding favors also come in a variety of prices that helps make it easier for couples to find the right gift at the right price.



Couples can choose to have wedding favors that symbolize the theme of the wedding. Wedding favors can also be selected in relation to the season in which the wedding is scheduled. Christmas or winter theme, summer theme or fall theme wedding favors also makes it easier for couples to select the right giveaway for the event.



Creative couples can also use their resourcefulness to craft their own wedding favors. Wedding songs recorded on compact discs are popular wedding favors that let couples share their special day with guests for years to come. At any rate, the choice of wedding favors is limited only by the couple's imagination.

Wedding Planning – Choosing the Gown

The dress is always the highlight of all wedding fantasies and make-believes. Ever since their youth, people will most often dream of a beautiful princess-bride in a snowy white, ethereal wedding dress of stunning beauty. It comes as no surprise that choosing the perfect wedding dress for your wedding will prove to be one of the most challenging and exciting part of planning your wedding.



Marriage is – ideally – an once-in-a-lifetime event. There isn’t much leeway to practice or make mistakes. So to make the bride’s entrance down the carpet perfect and memorable, one must take great pains to ensure that everything is done correctly – down to every little detail on the wedding dress.



From watching fantasy-like weddings on TV, or reading about them in books and magazines, or hearing about them from other people, many brides-to-be form an image in their minds of the kind of wedding dress they would like to wear on their wedding. Many people take a watch and learn stance as they formulate, plan and dream up their ideal wedding dress.



If your time has come, and you are shopping for the perfect dress to make your wedding dreams come true, then you have come to the right place. Here are a few tips to help you get over the wedding dress hump will less sweat.



1. The Dress Comes First

Although it may go both ways, the theme of your dress should follow your desired theme – or vice versa. Some couples choose a theme before choosing a gown, and in effect, they make the gown fit the theme they have chosen. But for some people, the choice of gown comes first, and the theme of the wedding follows the gown’s theme. So if the gown that catches the bride’s fancy is ultra beaded and formal, then the wedding may tend to be more formal. If the bride chooses a less formal dress, then the wedding may follow a less formal route.



2. Don’t Overwhelm Yourself with Choices

Yes, it may be tempting to try every gown that comes your way. But what if you find yourself buried under a pile of 20 or so gowns you think you really like and can’t make a decision? That sort of scenario will prove to be a terrible headache – not to mention a great source of stress.



To avoid this, try making decisions in stages. You could try an ‘American Idol’ style way of choosing a gown. You could vote off the least liked one and then reevaluate the remaining gowns.



Another method is trying 5 gowns and then choosing two of the best. These ‘champions’ will be pit against 5 more new gowns. Continue the tournament until you get to the perfect gown.



It may become tempting to say, “Aw, but that other gown might have been better.” Try to make sure you make your final decision among 5 gowns. If you end up with too many to choose from you may get overwhelmed and end up choosing an inferior gown, or choosing the perfect gown but forever asking yourself whether you made the right decision or not.



Choose Wisely

And choose a wise companion; take along one or two of your closest friends or confidants who know a thing or two about wedding dresses and style. Their advice will come in handy when choosing a gown. Also, make sure you check the durability and quality of the gown, the material and the accessories. You don’t want your gown falling apart on you during the ceremonies.

How to Select the Perfect Wedding Dress

One of the most important decisions a woman will make before she gets married is to select her perfect wedding dress. This is something that every little girl dreams of during her childhood. But don't let the hype and the pressure of years and years of anticipation cloud your judgement. After all, the dress is just a dress, and should never be bigger than the occasion.



One of the things brides-to-be have to consider when buying a dress is the comfort level of the wedding dress. Sure it's nice to look like a princess on your wedding day, but if the dress causes you extreme discomfort; or cuts off your circulation, then it's not really worth it. The dress might even cause you to faint. Imagine what a nightmare that would be!



The wedding dress selection process usually starts months before the wedding. It's advisable for brides-to-be to look through the pages of wedding magazines, or to visit wedding shops. Just to give them an idea of the different types of styles of wedding dresses that are available.



Brides-to-be also have to consider their body types. It's important to get a wedding dress that looks good on you! You might have to try plenty of wedding dresses before you find that one dress that is perfect for you.



If you have set aside an extensive budget for your wedding dress. Then you can always go for a designer dress. The most famous name nowadays when it comes to bridal fashion is Vera Wang. She is known for her luxurious detailing, craftsmanship, and hand beading. Her clients for her wedding line include: Jennifer Lopez, Jessica Simpson, Uma Thurman and Mariah Carey, just to name a few.



But if you don't have that much money to spare then you can always choose other options. There are a number of places where you can get your wedding dress that won't cost you a fortune. In addition to the more traditional bridal shops, wedding dresses are also available in: thrift shops, discount stores, online, and even eBay.



If you are buying on eBay, make sure the measurements of the wedding dress is included in the description. Also, the condition of the dress must be looked into. Check for feedback regarding that person's account, just to make sure that you are dealing with a credible dealer.



But if a traditional wedding is the theme you have in mind, then you might want to go for a vintage dress, in keeping with this theme. When buying a vintage dress, beware of discoloration, or stains on the dress. These might not come off so easily. Investigate the fabric of the dress, stretch it out to check for weakening, or tearing of the cloth.



Try to buy a vintage dress that is made before the 1900's. Fabrics have a tendency to deteriorate, and weaken over time. Extraordinarily old vintage dresses might look romantic, but they might not be ideal for use.



If you really have your heart set on a specific design, but you find that that dress is too old to use, or too expensive, then you can always go for a reproduction wedding dress.



Many stores specialize on reproduction dresses. They design wedding dresses based on specific themes, or eras. Some specialty wedding shops also focus on designing knock-off wedding dresses, inspired by designer wedding gowns. The huge difference being, that these wedding gowns are retailed for the fraction of the amount.



There are so many ways a future bride can go about in search for her dream wedding dress. Searching for a wedding dress should be exciting and fun. So make sure you have plenty of time in your hands before the big day, so this process doesn't become stressful, and wearisome. Instead a prelude to the happiness of the special occasion which is to become your wedding.

Tips for Choosing Wedding Decorations

The first thing that guests notice when they attend a wedding ceremony or reception are the decorations. Therefore, every bride and groom wants to have the decorations very attractive, memorable and to have these represent the interests or the couple.



Usually, the task of choosing the wedding decorations is delegated to the bride and the female members of the family and entourage. However, it is still preferred that the groom should also help in conceptualizing the decorations to be used for the wedding.



Here are some aspects to consider when deciding on what decorations to be used in the wedding:



* Mood



Will the wedding be formal or casual? Do you want it to be traditional or contemporary? This will help in deciding what candles, flowers, balloons, and other venue enhancements will you be needing.



* Color Scheme



Consider the main color to be used for the decorations. This may be the couple's favorite color, a color that can be associated with their hobby or the color that is preferred during the season. Make sure that the color of the decorations will go well with what the members of the entourage and the guests will be wearing.



* Site



Take pictures of the wedding site as early as possible so that you can check the pictures while considering a decorating idea.



* Time



Usually, decorations can only be set at the church and at the reception within one to two hours before the event. Therefore, you must consider decorations that don't take much time to mount. Also, these decorations should also be taken down right after the event.



* Guests



Consider how many will attend the wedding reception and how big is the site. With the number of guests that you will be having, can you still set-up bigger decorations that will take some floor space?



If you have a large number of guests, you may just want to set-up floor decorations near the stage and dance floor where most of the program will take place. Also, you might want to opt for smaller but finely detailed table decorations.



Also consider if there will be kids who will be attending the wedding reception. Kids may get bored during the program and start playing with the decorations that can cause an unsightly mess. So you may just get decorations that are not so fragile.



Another tip, if you will be having several kids as guests, you may have a kids area, where they can mingle with other kids and where the decorations and food are more suited for their age.



* Budget



Improperly chosen decorating ideas will not look well even if these cost much. Also, choosing just two or three decorating ideas, as long as these are implemented well can make a ceremony and reception look lavish.



Also, it is not necessary to buy every item that will be used as decorations. Some professional decorators can give you information on vases, mirrors, table centerpieces, dried flower arrangements, arc ways, pedestals and plants that will only be used for one day.



With these, just adding a few candles, laces and fresh flowers will make your wedding site and reception exquisite.



A final budgeting advice, check with the wedding rite venue director if there are other weddings that will take place during the day. If so, you may want to coordinate with the couple that will be using the venue before or after you. The may agree with your decorating ideas or add some of their own, and agree to just split the decorating expenses with you.

Wedding Crashers: Guests from the Uninvited World

In every occasion, there is an invitation. In every invitation, there is an invited guest. However, for every party, there is bound to be a party crasher.



Take for example in wedding celebrations. For so many years now, there are people who come to the event without even an invitation or the mere fact that they were invited. These are known as the wedding crashers.



Wedding crashers are “unexpected guests” primarily because they were not invited in the first place. But because they think that love is in the air and they are not invited, they cannot help but attend the party.



So, for people who wish to know how to become a wedding crasher, here are some tips that you can use.



1. Try to become a long-lost cousin or somebody who is “within” the family.



In most wedding celebrations, the family is always included. In fact, most of the wedding invitations tend to be some sort of family reunions because the family members get together once again.



And because there are tons of relatives present in the celebration, the bride or the groom will not notice, who you are or where did you come from. So, it would be better to pretend as a long lost relative.



Best of all, you could extend the drama if you have a beautifully gift-wrapped package with you. Who could resist somebody who was known as Uncle Clemence’s long lost son and now he has come back (with your personality, of course).



2. Try being a staff member of the wedding caterer or wedding coordinator.



In order to be able to crash into a wedding, you could always pretend to be a staff member of something.



In a wedding, there are lots of people being hired in the planning and preparation. So, one way of crashing into the scene is to pretend that you are a staff member of the catering company or the flower arrangements.



It is just a matter of drama and actions. After all, you would want to eat a very nice meal, right?



3. If somebody asks you who you are, you could always say you are a friend of somebody who is also at the party.



Pick the name of your choice. You can always find someone else’s name when you are being asked why you are at the party or who is with you right now.



This is a safe tactic if you do not feel like choosing whose side of the couple will you take in order to introduce yourself. Besides, with this strategy, you can be pretty sure that with over a hundred or 200 guests in the party, who would dare verify that the name you have chosen really exists.



4. Dress to kill.



The best part of being a wedding crasher is to dress up a little bit in order to suit the occasion. Even if it means that you were “dressed to kill,” it would be better to dress appropriately in order to fit in the event.



After all, wedding crashing is not all about free food and wines. It can also be one way of finding the love of your life.



5. Timing is an essence.



One of the most important things one should remember when crashing into the party is to show up really late. This is because by the time you have arrived, everybody has started drinking, socializing, and getting so much into the details of the wedding that their defenses become relatively low.



So, when you arrived at the wedding, no one will surely notice your arrival, so, you can easily slip in and join the party.



Indeed, wedding crashers can be very unethical people to love with. But then again, some of these people are also worth your time and money because of the company that they can give to your other guests.



After all, for wedding crashers, life is, indeed, worth partying out that is why it is a great idea to attend to a party or wedding even if you are not invited.

Things to Know About Wedding Centerpieces

Having a perfect wedding is a dream of most couples. They want to have their wedding day as the most perfect event of their lives.



No wonder why many people are so engaged into wedding planning because the numerous details of the wedding should never be taken for granted. From the invitations down to the reception, every detail must be meticulously considered.



Take for example the wedding centerpieces. For some events, centerpieces are not that important and may not take much of preparation and consideration. But with weddings, these beautiful embellishments usually found in the reception are extremely important as these items, likewise, set the mood in the area.



Wedding centerpieces are not necessarily the “center of attraction” in the event. But they do complement the bride and the group along with the other details of the wedding.



Normally, wedding centerpieces are not included in the reception or the catering; hence, it is a must that you hire the best provider of wedding centerpieces.



So, for people who wish to obtain some tips on choosing wedding centerpieces, here are some pointers that you could use:



1. In most cases, flowers are the best wedding centerpieces. They add color and life in the reception area.



Best of all, flowers can enliven the spirit of those who are present in the reception. It gives a homey feeling, thus, making the reception program more fascinating.



2. Do not just go with the flowers. Consider the arranger as well. The flower arranger could also be the same arranger you have hired to decorate the church.



The wrong flower arrangement, color, and types of flowers used as centerpieces can do more harm than good. Hence, it is a must that pertinent details like this one should be considered seriously.



3. Shop around



Do not be constrained on one establishment only. It is best to shop around and get more ideas on wedding centerpieces. Flowers are not the only thing that is considered as good wedding centerpieces. You can also have some candles, glass bowls, floating and scented candles, etc.



4. Choose the kind of ambiance you want to project in the reception



If you want a more classical yet simple wedding centerpiece, it is best to try using flowers or other ornaments. In the event that your wedding and the reception has a different venue, deviated from the typical church and restaurant venue, it is best to choose a wedding centerpiece that is suitable to the venue.



For example, if it is a garden wedding, then it is best to use nature as centerpieces like miniature birdhouses, flower baskets, etc.



5. In choosing flowers, it is best to consider the color, style, and the availability of the flowers. There are instances wherein the type of flower that you want to use as a centerpiece is not available.



There are many varieties of flowers so you can choose an alternative. Just keep in mind that it must complement the color and the setting of the wedding reception.



6. For budget conscious couples, you can opt for a cheaper wedding centerpiece but still adds elegance to your wedding reception.



You can use fruits as wedding centerpieces. Fruits are very affordable items and can be used as attractive wedding centerpieces.



With a little creativity and imagination, you can make something wonderful out of these fruits.



The bottom line is that wedding centerpieces need not be very expensive. What matters most is to have them as embellishments in the table, which adds up to the merry-making of the memorable activity in a couple’s life.

Some Tips When Buying Wedding Cakes

When you want to knock their socks off; when you want them to stand up and cheer; when nothing but the best will do because it is your wedding day; that is when you serve a spectacular wedding cake.



Do not let the vision of confetti, the crash of cymbals, or the fanfare of trumpets deter you from attempting to come up with such remarkable wedding cakes.



Generally, wedding cakes are is the conventional cake being dished up to the guests at the breakfast after the wedding. It is characterized as a huge cake, different from the usual cakes we have on ordinary occasions. In most cases, wedding cakes are layered or multi-layered and are heftily decorated with icing, beads, and other embellishments that would reflect the grandiose of the event. On the top is a small image of a bride and groom.



Wedding cakes can go from the simplest to the most complex decorations; each has its own artistic distinctions depending on the creative juices of the baker. They should conform to the main purpose of the cake, that whatever embellishments it possess, it can still be edible and can be eaten.



Because the wedding cake is such an important part in the wedding celebration, here are some tips you need to know in case you will be buying a wedding cake in the future.



1. Check on the length of time required for you in ordering your wedding cake.



Time is such an important factor when making wedding plans. Of course, you would not want your wedding be hurriedly done or rushed. Because the wedding cake is a part of the wedding plan, it is important to devote an appropriate time in ordering wedding cakes.



It is best to ask your favorite bakeshop on the time frame that they usually give with regards to wedding cake so that you can make early orders if it will take such a long time to create your wedding cake. In this way, you will not be in a hurry coming up with a wedding cake to be served on your wedding day.



2. Verify the details of the cake and its cost.



A lot of couples are so fascinated with the luscious treats that go with their wedding cake. What they do not know is that each embellishment and every twists and turns embedded in the cake has a price.



Therefore, it would be better to clear it out with your baker how much will be the cost of every decoration are added features you wish to add on your wedding cake.



3. Tell your baker about the details of your wedding.



In today’s modern world, weddings are not just done in the church. A lot of ideas had come up in terms of wedding venues. Therefore, if ever you have any plans of having your wedding by the beach or anywhere else where it is open, it would be better to inform your baker about this.



In most cases, icings are vulnerable to environmental hazards. So, if the baker knows that your wedding will be a garden wedding or a wedding by the beach, he could make such arrangements with your cake in order to endure the environmental conditions where it will be placed.



4. In a budget? Why not decorate your own wedding cake.



It is not so uncommon nowadays to find somebody decorating his or her own wedding cake. In fact, it is a feasible idea especially to those who have a very tight budget.



All you have to do is to order a plain wedding cake and buy the decorations from the retail stores.



So, set aside some special decisive moment when it comes to your wedding cake because there would be no better way to glamorize your wedding than to have a perfectly made wedding cake.

Things You Should Know About Wedding Cake Toppers

Centuries ago, there was a baker’s daughter who was about to be married had wished to have a perfect emblem of her marriage. She asked her father to help her find that perfect symbol in order to indicate the love that has transpired between her and her groom.



After some series of careful deliberation, the father finally came up with something that he thought would best signify the kind of love his daughter has for her husband. And so, when the wedding day came, the baker’s daughter was so happy because there stood, in the middle of the wedding cake, two miniature, but lovely figurines perfectly dressed for the wedding.



The father said that this is the perfect symbol of their marriage, in which the couple is the main attraction of the ceremony.



This could have been a fiction or a true story, but nobody can really tell if this is the start of the wedding cake topper history.



Nevertheless, since its inception, the wedding cake toppers had long been the traditional symbol of married couples as they were symbolically placed above the wedding cake for everybody to see.



Wedding cake toppers are available in a wide array of designs, colors, and styles wherein couples can choose whatever they think would best portray their marriage.



So, for those who want to know some tips regarding the right way to choose wedding cake topers, here are some tips that you may use:



1. Never use wedding cake toppers that are made of plastics, especially the cheap ones.



Even if you are tight on a budget, it is best not to choose wedding cake toppers that are made of plastics. Usually, these are the ones that are readily available in the department stores.



Wedding cake toppers should be as exceptional as your wedding cake. Therefore, it is best to use wedding cake toppers that is out of ordinary and never before seen in any wedding. This may cost a little bit more than what you have intended to spend with but would definitely convert your wedding cake into something wonderful, one that would definitely make your wedding truly a memorable event.



2. Be creative.



It is best if the wedding along with your wedding cake and cake toppers are all personalized. This means that the designs and styles are creatively made by the couple. This will add more romance and glamour on the wedding itself.



Best of all, do not be constrained with the traditional and classical designs of wedding cake toppers. You may deviate from the customs and have your very own wedding cake toppers.



Today, there are many contemporary designs that the couple may use. In fact, they can even have their own ideas. All they have to do is to ask their baker to make the concept and use it as their wedding cake topper.



3. For the budget conscious couple, you can use your parent’s wedding cake topper if it is still available. This will truly make your wedding cake very special because of the hand-down generation.



The point is, whatever designs or styles of cake toppers you choose to have on your wedding cake, the fact that it symbolizes your marriage is already a special concept that no other item can replace.



Wedding cake toppers are not just sheer embellishments in a cake but more of an emblem, one that best represents the love that is flowing in the hearts of the couple.

How to buy wedding cakes

Wedding cakes are the main attraction in any wedding reception. More than something that you can feast on, wedding cakes has become an essential decoration in the wedding venue. The first thing guests would buzz about is how magnificent your wedding cake is. Choosing the right cake should be meticulously done. With a little patience and the quick tips below, picking the best cake should as easy as walking down the aisle.



Choose the right bakeshop

If you have an idea on where the best bakery is in your city, then head to that place immediately. You can ask suggestions from your friends or family members also. Get a reservation at once. Do not procrastinate. The availability of cake decorators might be restricted. Be sure to drop by the bakeshop to talk about the designs, flavors and other things you wanted to add to your cake. Be sure to give a detailed description of exactly what you want your cake to be. Give the vendor ample time to prepare, approximately six months ahead of your big day would do. You may need to pay a deposit fee for reservation.



The right taste

Aside from the look of the cake, keep in mind that cakes are made primarily for eating. They should taste good as well as they look good. The texture and flavor of the cake itself is important. When scouting for a bakeshop, don’t hesitate to ask for cake samples of the flavors you want. If they do not allow this, jump to the next store.



Check on your budget

Wedding cakes ranges from $300 to $1000 or so. Cost primarily depends on the cake design you want. You have to pay for the cake decorator’s fee on top of the cost of the cake itself. Know what your budget is ahead of time. Some shops may give you free delivery too. Most bakeshop has a standard number of servings for each cake type. Know how many guests would attend your wedding so you would know more or less how much money you would allocate for the cake.



Flowers as decorations

Flowers have been a traditional thing on weddings. You can well put them in cakes too. You can either choose from fresh flowers or artificial ones. Fresh flowers are beautiful addition to your cakes. But it is very important that you choose fresh flowers wisely. Be sure that they are free from chemicals. Just to be on the safe side, sugar flowers are safer. These are edible gum paste decorations that have wire or toothpicks on them.



Where to place the cake

Most cakes, especially on summer, might end up melted under the heat of the sun. They can also cause flowers and flavored curls to dry up. Not to mention the possibility of flies gathering on your priced cake. Just be sure, always have a back up site where you can store your cakes to preserve its look and taste. Never place your wedding cake near the dance floor or where there is a heavy flow of traffic. You might just see your cake fall down. That’s not a good sight at all! Be sure to check the sturdiness of the table you would place your cake.



Buying wedding cakes can be fun and hassle-free. Remember that your wedding cakes needs to be presentable, most of the photo opts are done beside the cake. It’s always nice to give out that bright smile beside you’re well decorated cake that brings out your personal statement.

Choose Your Wedding Bouquet

Bouquets of flowers have always been one attraction at any wedding. Bouquets are already part of the wedding tradition on all races. A bouquet of flowers symbolizes a blossoming maiden and reflects her emotions. Therefore, wedding bouquets should be carefully selected and planned the same way you plan for your wedding gown. Here are just a few tips in choosing your wedding bouquet:



1. It is recommended that you choose a flower that is on season to save money and time. This will not give you hard time trying to order the flower as well.



2. You can choose other alternatives like silk flowers especially if the flower you would like to use is not in season. Silk flowers are also suited in formal weddings; fresh picked flowers may not fit a very formal party.



3. Your bouquet should not drown you. Be sure that it will not cover your figure. If you are petite, the weight of the flower might be too heavy for your built and may affect your posture and how you carry your gown. Remember that your bouquet should not be too big so as not to cover your elegant gown and should be easy to carry.



4. The flowers you chose should last for the entire day. Make sure that your flowers still hold up even at the end of the day so that you will still look glamorous when taken pictures. Using a bouquet holder is suggested to keep the flowers fresh during the entire day. Also take the advice of your florist on which flowers easily wilt so that you can avoid choosing them.



5. Don't let your florist imagine the flower design you like. You may take a picture or a printed copy of the bouquet style you prefer. Also bring a sample fabric of the gowns so that the florist can choose the correct shade of flower that will match the color of the gowns. Some bouquets may be decorated with ribbons, lace and silk materials. You can advise the florist on what specific designs would you like to add for your flowers.



6. Why not choose a flower that has special meaning? That will not be difficult since most flowers have their meanings. Stephanotis stands for happiness in marriage, Rose means love and being true, and Tulips stand for perfect love and declaration of love.



7. One of the first things to consider when opting for a bouquet is the style. Choose the bouquet style that will suit you and your personality. Bouquets are more personal nowadays and reflect the brides' personalities. For Nosegays, where flowers are clustered in a round form, can vary in sophistication and will fit any personality. In Cascade bouquets, flowers are arranged in a descending form. These bouquets are voluptuous and can be the center of attention.



They are recommended for traditional weddings. There are flowers where stems are wrapped around in ribbons and they are called Hand-tied bouquets. These bouquets bring a casual aura and are recommended for garden weddings. There are also Contemporary bouquets where flowers are arranged in style but with no geometric form. These arrangements of flowers represent the individuality of a bride and are mostly used in sophisticated weddings.



8. The top wedding flowers are Rose, Lilly, Orchid, Hyacinth, Tulip, Stephanotis and Daisy. You may want to follow the trend and choose these flowers for your bouquet.

How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Bands

So you want to seal the deal. You've already proposed, she has accepted. Now, it's time to get down to business and make it official.



Aside from your vows, there's nothing more that makes it official than the exchange offering of wedding bands. These are the rings that the bride and groom will be wearing forever, 'til death do us part! So it is important for the bride and groom to purchase a wedding band that they both like and feel good about.



One thing that you should consider when buying a wedding band, is both the personal style of the future husband and wife. This is a joint effort, so both parties should agree. It is essential that both are comfortable with the rings that they choose, because they'd be wearing these rings for a lifetime.



There are a variety of wedding band to choose from, made from different materials. 14 karat white and yellow gold being still two of the most popular choices. A 14 karat gold wedding band is not entirely made of gold. It is mixed with an alloy of gold and other metals such as copper and silver.



Wedding bands also come in silver and platinum. Platinum is heavier than gold. It is considered to be the most precious of all metals. It makes for a beautiful wedding ring because of its stunning white metal that shines after it has been polished.



Silver is not considered superior in quality. Silver metal tend to be very soft. Wedding bands made of silver are prone to discoloration. But they are very inexpensive. So those who are shopping on a budget might want to consider this as an option.



In choosing a wedding band, the thickness of the band must be considered, and whether the bride and groom would want a wedding band with a design, or just a plain set of wedding bands.



Now, it is common for couples to choose the same wedding band. Except, that the woman's wedding band is slightly smaller. It is advisable for couples who are shopping for rings to visit a number of jewelry stores. This way, they'd have a wide selection to choose from. They could also compare prices. If you have any questions regarding the rings, you can always ask a professional jeweler to assist you. He or she can also offer you an expert opinion when it comes to your selection.



If couples chose to have an engraving in their rings, they should already have a dedication in mind. Also, they should be careful in choosing the type of engraving they will put in their wedding bands, because these engravings are lasting.



Most couples chose to have their initials brandished inside their wedding rings. While others chose symbols, or dedications as a gesture, or profession of their love and devotion to each other. Engravings are a wonderful thing, because they make the rings more meaningful and special.



Ask your friends and family who are blissfully married to recommend some names of places where you can acquire the wedding bands of your dream.



If you cannot find a ready made ring that suits your style, you can always have them custom made. A lot of jeweler specialize in making wedding bands. Having your wedding bands made, actually is less expensive than purchasing in store wedding bands. The great thing about this is it also adds a personal touch to the ring selection process.



But in the end, it's not really just about the rings, so couples should not stress over the whole ring selection process. Rather they should enjoy and relish this special time, when they are about to be made future husband and wife, and bonded for all eternity.

Essential wedding accessories

Wedding accessories are important to complete your bridal look. Without wedding accessories, the wedding gown would look bare and incomplete. Below are some of the essential wedding accessories.



Wedding veils

Would a wedding be complete without a wedding veil? Of course you’ve probably seen weddings where brides where gowns without veils but it sure don’t look much like a wedding. A wedding veil, along with the ring and cord, is one wedding accessory that symbolizes the wedding itself. In picking out a wedding veil make sure that it will suit your wedding gown and the theme of your wedding. Traditional veils are very formal and usually measure around three and a half yards long. Veils nowadays come in various lengths. There is even a shoulder length flyaway type that is preferred by many modern brides.



Shoes & stockings

Shoes and stockings are a crucial element to your overall look on your wedding day. All girls know how difficult it is to find a shoe that will complement attire. What more if you are trying to look for a pair that would match your wedding gown. Try to look for shoes made of velvet, satin and silk as these materials provide a formal and delicate touch to any event. You can also choose shoes with embellishment like beads, sequins, pearls or crystals. Just make sure that the shoes you will buy is comfortable on your feet because you will ear them on probably the most important event of your life.



Jewelry

Aside from the wedding band and wedding ring, you should also take time to consider the other jewelry you will ear like necklace, earrings and bracelet. Jewelry should always compliment a dress and not be the star of the evening. So make sure that the jewelry you will wear would be noticeable enough to get attention but not too loud as to over shadow your wedding gown. Consider wearing family heirlooms because they are proven to be an ideal wedding accessory. Of course, diamonds and pearls would also be very nice.



Headpieces

Headpieces such as combs, headbands, back pieces and Juliet caps are generally used to hold the wedding veil in place. Often, headpieces are decorated with beads, pearls, crystals or flowers to make them look attractive. It seems like a small detail but a headpiece can spell the difference between a boring wedding attire and an exciting one. Actually, a beautiful headpiece can even replace a veil altogether. Examples of headpieces that can stand alone are tiaras, crowns, half-crowns, wreaths and bun wraps.



Gloves

Gloves make great accessories especially if you are wearing a strapless or sleeveless gown. The general rule is that the shorter the sleeve the longer the glove should be. Gloves simply provide an air of sophistication to any outfit.



Handbags

Of course you shouldn’t be carrying a bag with you during the wedding ceremony or even during the reception. But still it would be nice to have a small purse where all the things you will need, particularly make up for touch ups, would be contained. It doesn’t have to be a big shoulder bag. Clutches will work just fine.



As they say, God is in the details. And in wedding the little details provided by wedding accessories can make all the difference. That’s is why it is very important to give as much attention to the wedding accessories you will wear or carry on your wedding day as you would to your wedding gown.

Unique wedding gift ideas

Attending a wedding soon and you still don’t know what to give the couple-t be? Tired of the usually home appliances or home décor? Please, not another blender, vacuum cleaner or oven toaster. Money of course will be very much appreciated but it would deem to impersonal.



Giving gifts to the couple is part of the traditions on wedding. Your gift symbolizes your good will towards the couple. It represents your wish for them to have a happy life together.



Of course, your first consideration when buying wedding gift is durability. You would want to give a gift that would last a long time. But of course you would also want a gift that is individual and would reflect your personality. A gift that the couple will remember is from you because of its uniqueness. This means the wedding gift you should give should make a lasting impression about you.



Below are several unique gift ideas that will surely make you unforgettable with the couple.



Jewelry

Jewelry is a very “safe” yet unique wedding gift especially for the bride. We all know that most women love jewelry and the bride would simply be happy upon seeing your gift of jewelry. The bride will be definitely be surprised and fascinated when she open your gift. Choose simple yet very elegant pieces like brooch pins, hairpins, earrings, pendants, chains, necklaces and bracelets. If you have the money and if the bride really matters to you (a sister, best friend, etc.) then of course you could give her diamonds. You could also include a\n elegant jewelry box along with your jewelry gift.



Bags

Again, this will be another hit with the bride. Next to jewelry, shoe and bags delight women You can give her a beautiful and exquisite evening bag or hand bag. If your want something smaller then give her a clutch bag. You could also put a small make up kit inside.



Gift ideas for the groom

Of course you shouldn’t forget the groom. They say that it is easier to give gifts to men because and it could be true. Some ideal gifts for grooms include writ and pocket watches, ties and tiepins, gold, silver or diamond studded cufflinks. You could also give the groom formal suits and shirts. You could also consider his hobby. Give him a musical instrument like a guitar or drums if he is into music or a set of golf clubs, basketball or baseball set if he is into sports.



Naughty items

Naughty items found in most novelty shops like naughty t-shirts, hast, caps, wedding night kits, underwear are always a hit with couples. However, be sure hat you know the bride and groom very well before considering buying such items for them. Naughty items may seem impolite and offensive to some individuals.



Artwork

Paintings and sculptures are very ideal as wedding gifts. They are also very practical since the couple can use them to beautify their future home. Just be sure that you know the preference of the couple when it comes to art or else your gift would simply lie around in the garage of attic.



Personalized items

You could give the couple personal items like photo albums, pillows and pillow cases, photo frames, wedding plates, etc. There are many companies specializing in personalizing different things so for sure you wouldn’t have a hard time looking.

Five Reasons to Get Married in Las Vegas

The first recorded wedding in Vegas was in 1900s when California banned gin from being part of the ceremony, young lovers who were drunk and in love were able to get hitched in Las Vegas. Their unity certificate took only hours to get stamped and outside the chapel was a city of lights for their marriage celebration. Clark Gable was said to have been the first celebrity to get married in Vegas, and from then on it became the top wedding destination for celebrities and commoners alike. Here are five reasons why you should consider getting hitched in the Entertainment Capital of the World.



1. Last Days of Singleton



Days before THE big day, arrive at Las Vegas and plan to spend the last hours of your singleton in the Sin City! Experience life and the company of friends on a night out on the strip.



Want girl-bonding time? You can do that, too! Try a day at the spa for relaxing massage and body pampering while indulging in interesting girl talk on the man you are about to marry.



2. Marry, Quick and Easy



Ready to get married? A valid ID, your social security number and $55 is all you need to get married in Vegas, oh and yes … Love! It is that easy to get hitched: no wedding planner, no in-laws, and no wedding singer. Just you and your loved one and, of course, the one to marry the two of you: Elvis, a priest or the Commissioner, it’s entirely to your liking. Just don’t forget to get a marriage license before hand for a smooth flow of the ceremonies.



3. Marry in Your Own Style



Wedding for a party of 2 or a party of 200? Vegas has the place and style for you. Most wedding chapels offer an assortment of packages, from very simple to very grandiose. Rings, flowers, witnesses, everyone and everything are readily available. And don’t worry about your guest of 200… they have a whole city to entertain themselves, so you can forget about them concentrate on your first night of marital bliss.



4. Stroll To Your Honeymoon



Some marriages break up before they start their honeymoon. A long plane ride can be a very tough test for newlyweds. But that is not a worry in a Las Vegas wedding. As soon as you step out the chapel (or the garden, or the Commissioner’s office), the honeymoon begins. Stroll along the strip and be amazed with lights and water fountains that are brighter and larger than life. Or stay at any of the luxurious hotels to make your wedding night truly memorable!



5. Settle in Las Vegas



Close to 2,000,000 Americans can’t be wrong: living in Las Vegas is a serious consideration for any couple starting their life. The city has made very good infrastructure to combat extreme weather conditions. As the Entertainment Capital, it has 24x7 availability for basic need: food!



Tired of the blinking lights? There’s more nature to see at Las Vegas: try Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire, and Lake Mead are among the few that will surely take your breath away.



Ready to raise a family? Nevada is home to some of the finest schools in the US, take Clark County’s Green Valley High school, one of the top 10 high schools in the US.



Don’t just get married in Las Vegas, start your new life. After all, once you set foot in Vegas, you’ll never want to leave ever again. Viva, Las Vegas!